ROME ITALY: WHAT TO DO

Happy Wednesday! This week I've been sharing all my tips and tricks about Rome. We've talked about where to stay and where to eat so today I'm sharing on my favorite topic: all there is to DO!

For starters the Italian capital is brimming with more history than arguably anywhere else in the world. There's the Colosseum, Trevi Fountain, Roman Forum, Pantheon, Spanish Steps... the list goes on.

Since I'd been a few times and was traveling with a friend who was a first time visitor, I found myself asking "What does she have to see in a few short days?" There is so much I wanted to show her, but we narrowed it down to the absolute musts. So regardless of how long you spend in the Eternal City, be sure you check these things off your list of what to do in Rome. 

TREVI FOUNTAIN

Photos by Katie Theis Photo

If you're not familiar with the Trevi Fountain, you've likely been living on another planet. This Baroque masterpiece has been featured in countless films and other forms of media. Legend has it that if you turn your back to the fountain and throw a coin with your right hand over your left shoulder (got all that?) you will certainly return to Rome (I personally believe this whole-heartedly, as it's worked every time for me thus far).

I'd recommend a few things in particular about the Trevi Fountain. For starters, see it both during the day and after dark if you can-- both are so unique and magical experiences. For your daytime visit, I'd recommend rising early with the sun and beating all the tourists (these particular photos were taken at 8am on the October morning when we visited). You've likely seen photos others have taken when it's crawling with other people. And while it's always magical to see, I'd argue it's especially true when you're not dodging selfie-sticks. Having some peace and quiet to actually marvel at the fountain made it my most memorable visit yet. 

Photos by Katie Theis Photo

Photos by Katie Theis Photo

COLOSSEUM

Photos by Katie Theis Photo

The most iconic landmark in Rome (and arguably, one of the most in all of Europe) you simply can't visit Rome without seeing the Colosseum. The first time I ever went, it was the first place I wanted to see (I even learned how to ask my cab driver in Italian so we could drive by straight from the airport). Similar to my sentiments about the Trevi Fountain, be sure you see it both during the day and at night (again- both are magical!)

I find myself being a bit sentimental about the Colosseum. I'll never forget the way my heart pitter-pattered when I saw it for the first time after looking at pictures for so many years. It was a definite turning point where I really began to grasp how much I love to travel (seeing it in person was quite literally a dream come true). I think it's easy as a traveler to turn your nose up a bit to such popular attractions that everyone sees. We get annoyed by the aggressive vendors selling tacky souvenirs or the oblivious tourist that almost takes our head off with his selfie stick. But similar to my statement about the Trevi Fountain, if you avoid peak hours and find a place where you can sit and properly marvel at it, you'll understand why it's received so much hype. The Colosseum is older than most things in the world. It's where gladiatorial contests, public spectacles, animal hunts, executions and dramas based on Classical mythology took place. It was used for housing, workshops, quarters for a religious order, a fortress, a quarry and a Christian shrine. SO much history has happened in this single place. When you stop to think about everything that happened here: all the people who have seen it, all the life lived + lost-- it's truly incredible. And in a cheesy, cliché fashion it makes you realize how connected the world is. All it takes is a single landmark like this to bring people from every corner of the globe together-- all wanting to behold the same masterpiece. I don't think I'll ever see the Colosseum without still feeling the same pitter-patter that my heart felt the first time. 

Photos by Katie Theis Photo

Photos by Katie Theis Photo

 

MAMERTINE PRISON

While this certainly isn't the most conventional tourist destination, it's definitely one of the most moving (it's where the Bible references when the apostles Peter and Paul were imprisoned). While there is no archaeological evidence, many believe it's where Paul was detained before he was executed at the Aquas Salvias and Peter before being executed on Vatican Hill. Paul mentions being imprisoned many times in his letters (like Philippians 1:13: "It has become known throughout the whole praetorian guard and to all the rest that my imprisonment is for Christ.") According to the legend, Peter caused a spring to miraculously well up in the prison so he could baptize the other prisoners (the small altar in the lower room is topped with a relic of him doing so). You can also see the column to which Peter and Paul were tied when they converted their guards to Christianity. Being in the same room where so many powerful things from the Bible happened was both powerful and sobering. I'd argue it's one of the coolest things I've ever done while traveling. 

SCOOTEROMA TOURS

Photos by Katie Theis Photo

While I knew I wanted to show my friend so much, I was starting to get worried about covering so much in so little time (and that was after we walked 12 miles in one day!) But luckily we found an alternative that was both a solution to our sightseeing and a first for me: seeing Rome by Vespa thanks to my friends at Scooteroma! They specialize in unique and exhilarating guided tours while zipping through traffic like a local.  Our guides picked us up from our flat and we zoomed straight to the Colosseum to start the tour with the most iconic landmark in Rome (perfect place for a photo opp!) 

Photos by Katie Theis Photo

After that, we saw Circo Massimo (an ancient Roman chariot racing stadium) before driving along the ancient Roman road that coined the phrase "All roads lead to Rome." (Fun fact: this arch above me is an ancient Roman aqueduct). Then from there, we went to the Roman baths and the Pyramid of Cestius (which is older than the Colosseum!) 

Photos by Katie Theis Photo

It was so fun learning about so many sights in Rome I'd never seen before from our guides (who were locals and knew loads of information). We got to experience an authentic café that was bustling with locals (which I mentioned in yesterday's post on where to eat). We saw an incredible view of the city from a vantage point at Trastevere. We saw so many corners of the city that I didn't even know existed. It was hands down the coolest experience that let you feel like a tourist and a local all at the same time. I seriously can't recommend Scooteroma enough. Do yourself a favor and book it when visiting Rome! 

Photos by Katie Theis Photo

Photos by Katie Theis Photo

Photos by Katie Theis Photo

CAMPO DE' FIORI

Photos by Katie Theis Photo

If you stay at any of the accommodations that I recommended, you're a short walk from Campo de' Fiori: a thriving piazza and one of my favorite spots in Rome. If you go during the day, you'll see it as a celebrated and picturesque market - bustling with fruit and vegetable stands, gorgeous flowers and wonderful souvenirs. But as the sun sets and the markets pack up, it quickly turns into a hub for nightlife (not to mention an amazing place to sit outside for dinner and people watch). No matter when you visit, you'll love the atmosphere that accompanies Campo de' Fiori. 

Photos by Katie Theis Photo

Photos by Katie Theis Photo

Some other musts? 

THE VATICAN of course! If you're a fan of art (and honestly, even if you're not) you simply must see the Sistine Chapel (not to mention countless of other masterpieces!) If you're in Rome on a Sunday, check to see if mass is happening at St. Peter's Basilica. I got to go hear him speak on my last day and it was so cool to witness (not only him speaking, but the massive crowds it attracted!)

SPANISH STEPS can be incredibly crowded from tourists (especially given the proximity to tourists shopping along Via del Corso or Via della Fontanella di Borghese) but worth a visit, nonetheless. Climb to the top at sunset for an incredible view of the city (although fun fact: you're not allowed to drink wine openly here. Learned this the hard way). 

THE PANTHEON is an attraction I've talked about a lot in my blogs on where to stay and where to eat (again, Di Rienzo is the perfect location for marveling at this!) 

ROMAN FORUM is impossible to miss as you make your way to the Colosseum (you walk right past it). If you have time and if it's of interest to you, it's worth taking a proper tour 

PIAZZA NOVANA was also mentioned in my where to stay and where to eat posts, but this incredible piazza is dripping with artwork and beautiful statues + fountains. It also has lots of restaurants where you can sit and enjoy the beautiful atmosphere. 

VITTORIANO or also known as Altare della Patria is an incredible structure at the end of Via del Corso as you make your way toward the Roman Forum and Colosseum. It literally brought tears to my eyes the first time I saw it because it was so incredible. Be sure to stop and appreciate it as you pass by. 

The other thing I will note is that there are a few essentials you should pack. The most important? Proper walking shoes! I logged 12 miles some of the days we were there, and I can't imagine having done that in any other shoe besides a trainer (I also love these). For evenings (or shorter stints of walking) I made sure to wear a comfortable flat like these boots (similar here). I loved having a couple leather jacket options (it's quite the look in Rome!) like this cream draped look and this black biker jacket. You also cant go wrong with a basic striped shirt, a classic red lip and some Italian sunnies to complete the look. Oh, and my general requirement for Europe of course: scarves for light layering! 

*HEADS UP: There is a flash sale happening on American Airlines right now (but will probably end sometime 2/1/17 so act fast!) that's offering roundtrip flights to FCO (Rome) out of ATL or JFK if you book March through early June (as low as $352!) To find the deal, I'd use Skyscanner, then enter your origin as ATL or JFK and your destination as FCO, and set your date range as the whole month (anytime between March and June). Good luck!*

I'm certain there are things I'm forgetting, but the beautiful truth is that you simply can't go wrong in Rome. No matter what you do, my biggest piece of advice is to marvel at everything. Stop and appreciate every ruin, every bit of history, every taste of delicious cuisine, every sip of wine-- just notice everything. Don't rush through it or fail to appreciate just how magical all of it is. You'll be doing yourself a terrible disservice if you do. 

What else have you done in Rome that I didn't mention? Let me know in the comments below! 

That's a wrap for all things Rome! (On this trip anyway) Stay tuned for some Valentine's love heading to the blog tomorrow. In the meantime, have a great Wednesday! 

xx-

Whitney

Rome, Italy: Where to Eat

It's no secret that Italy is bursting with delicious cuisine, but especially in Rome. In the 3 times I've visited, I can't think of a single dining experience that wasn't fantastic. As wonderful as all the options may be, it also can make narrowing down your selection a bit tricky! So rather than trying to make my decision for you, I've pulled together all the best places to eat in Rome (including some fantastic recommendations from my hosts) so you have the best of the best to choose from. 

 

RESTAURANTS

SUNGLASSES: PRADA

RESTAURANT DI RIENZO

As I mentioned in yesterday's Where to Stay blog, I absolutely love going back to Di Rienzo every time that I'm in Rome.  Regardless of where I stay, I always make a point to eat at their restaurant. Not only is all of the food incredible, but there is nothing better than sitting outside (especially at night) and marveling at the Pantheon. Whether you go for lunch, dinner, drinks or even a cappuccino, you simply must experience it for yourself whenever you're in Rome. 

PIAZZA DELLA ROTONDA, 8

RISTORANTE ROSCIOLI

This half-grocery-half-restaurant has a great atmosphere, good wine list and a large variety of excellent Italian products. Their specialty is "Carbonara" and "Cacio e pepe' pasta. You'll want to make a reservation in advance (but be aware: they're closed on Sunday) as it can get pretty crowded. 

VIA DEI GIUBBONARI, 21

OSTERIA DA FORTUNATA

Traditional food and home made pasta in Campo de' Fiori. The staff is friendly and the food is incredibly well-made and authentic. Campo de' Fiori is one of my favorite areas in all of Rome. If you go during the day, you'll see it as a celebrated and picturesque market - bustling with fruit and vegetable stands, gorgeous flowers and wonderful souvenirs. But as the sun sets and the markets pack up, it quickly turns into a hub for nightlife. No matter when you dine here, you'll love the atmosphere that accompanies Campo de' Fiori. 

VIA DEL PELLEGRINO, 11

PIZZERIA DA BAFFETTO

This is one of the best pizzerias in all of Rome (according to the locals) and it's no secret either because it's always full of people. Don't let the line scare you though, the service is fast and it's worth the wait!

VIA DEL GOVERNO VECCHIO, 114

GINGER

This was arguably my favorite place we ate in Rome because it was so nice to take a break from all the pizza and pasta! Ginger is an organic oasis of fresh fruits and vegetables (with amazing smoothies) just around the corner from the Spanish Steps. If you need a lighter, healthy lunch before a carb-heavy dinner, Ginger is your spot!

VIA BORGOGNONA, 13

IL SORPASSO

Just a few steps from the Vatican in the Prati neighborhood, this is one of the most beloved places by Romans. Our host told us it's become quite the after-work-watering-hole among locals, but it also offers great cold cuts, cheeses, and you can't go without trying the Trapizzini (stuffed pizza triangles with traditional cheeses).

VIA PROPERZIO, 31

GELATO

The best gelato in Rome? It depends who you ask! Some of my favorites include:

RING: LIVE FASHIONABLE

GROM

GROM was started when Guido Martinetti saw a newspaper headline that read "No one in Italy makes gelato like it used to be made." Fast forward to today, and GROM has spread not only all over Italy, but all over the world (even NYC!) But don't let the global franchise fool you- this stuff is incredibly authentic and hands down the best gelato I've ever had. 

VIA DEI GIUBBONARI, 52

GIOLITTI

This well-known café and pastry shop is also the oldest ice cream parlor in Rome. The employees all wear old fashioned uniforms and you can taste the sugar in the air right when you walk in. It gets busy but don't let the line intimidate you. I recommend trying the coconut, tiramisu or pistachio!

VIA DEGLI UFFICI DEL VICARIO, 40

FRIGIDARIUM

A short walk from Piazza Navona (a must see piazza that's brimming with art) this ice cream shop is unlike the tourist traps across the city. The most noticeable difference? Their flavor menu. For example, their pistachio is derived from the processing of fine Sicilian pistachios of Bronte (which comes with an unexpected and pleasant aftertaste). So if you want a unique spin on traditional flavors, be sure to pay them a visit!

VIA DEL GOVERNO VECCHIO, 112

PASTICCERIA LINARI

If you want a truly authentic and local experience, you surely won't find any tourists at Linari. Our friends from Scooteroma (stay tuned for more about them tomorrow) brought us to this patisserie away from the typical Rome sights to experience the hustle and bustle of a typical Roman morning. Remember that scene from Eat Pray Love when Julia Roberts is trying to order a cappuccino amongst a sea of lively Italians? That's exactly how I felt walking into Linari. You'll see people constantly revolving as they come before school or work for a quick morning espresso. We stayed for a bit to enjoy a cappuccino and the best cannoli I've ever eaten. Regardless of if you sit and stay or simply pop in on the go, don't miss this hidden gem if you want a unique cafe experience. 

VIA NICOLA ZABAGLIA, 9

COCKTAIL BARS

Looking for the coolest bars in Rome? Check out some of these:

JERRY THOMAS (SPEAKEASY)

If you're looking for drinks at a hip private bar, look no further than Jerry Thomas. You can make reservations in advance otherwise, you must know the password. Said password changes frequently, and to discover it you'll find the question hidden on their website's homepage- providing you with the password via email once you respond. 

VICOLO CELLINI, 30

BAR DEL FICO

We loved Bar Del Fico. It was one of the coolest spots I've visited in Rome. This definitely isn't one of those tourist traps where you drink wine and watch accordion players as they come play for money (now don't get me wrong, that can be fun too!) Bar Del Fico appeared to be full of locals sipping carefully crafted cocktails in a buzzing atmosphere. You can also come here for lunch or dinner if you're not one for nightlife. 

VIA DELLA PACE, 34

FRENI E FRIZIONI

A vibrant bar with a popular terrace, this is a great spot for cocktails and aperitivos (also with impressive chandeliers and modern art). 

VIA DEL POLITEAMA, 4/6

SALOTTO 42

Salotto 42 was born in Rome as a book bar in the beautiful Piazza di Pietra (facing the Temple of Hadrian). They offer a new way of hanging out and sending the evenings in a unique atmosphere as the interiors, staff, cocktails and music make it one of a kind. This trademark gathered together the cosmopolitan crowd that loves to hang out in great surroundings.

PIAZZA DI PIETRA, 42

So there you have it! While I certainly didn't include every wonderful eatery in Rome (because that would be impossible) this list should give you a great start with plenty of options to choose from as you eat your way through Rome. Have you been to any other spots in the Eternal City that are worth noting? Let me know in the comments below!

Stay tuned for tomorrow's post as we talk about my favorite topic: all the wonderful things to DO in Rome!

xx-

Whitney

Rome, Italy: Where to Stay

Happy Monday, friends! This week I'm finally getting around to writing about my most recent trip to Rome. As I mentioned in my Top 10 Trips of 2016 post, Rome will forever be a page turner in the history of my life. 5 years ago I had never been to Europe (even though I always dreamed of going) and at long last my family planned a trip. I honestly can't think of a time in my entire life where I've been more excited than I was when those airplane wheels touched down that summer in 2012. My dad still recalls how my mouth hung open in wonder like a little kid at Disneyland. Going back for the third time this past October gave me all the same butterflies and warm-fuzzy-feelings that I experienced on my first trip. Because let's face it: Rome is simply magical. 

Where is the best place to stay in Rome? Unlike many destinations that I've been to more than once, I've never stayed in a proper hotel while visiting the Eternal City. While there's certainly no shortage of options, I've always found apartment-style accommodations to be incredibly charming (not to mention, very Eat, Pray, Love). My experience with Italian hospitality is that they actually treat you like family (and this is true of all the apartment hosts I've had). So if there were ever a time to forego a traditional hotel for the apartment life, I'd encourage you to consider doing so in Rome. 

YOUR SUITE ROME: GRAND SUITE RICCI

In the heart of the city just around the corner from Campo de Fiore (one of my favorite spots in Rome) is Grand Suite Ricci: a luxury apartment where my friends and I stayed on my most recent trip. This 2 bedroom 80 squared meter apartment is the perfect size for a group of 3 or 4 (we even had a spare room for all of our luggage!) The apartment was so beautiful and bursting with character (especially those rustic wooden-beam ceilings!) We could easily walk to so many great places (Vatican City, Campo de Fiore, the Pantheon, Piazza Novana... the list goes on).

Our hosts at Your Suite Rome provided us with everything we needed: wifi, assistance with airport transfers and most importantly: amazing food, drink + sightseeing recommendations (stay tuned for the posts later this week for those details!)  

YOUR SUITE ROME: SUITE BANCHI VECCHI

I spent a bit of time on my own in Rome after my friends flew back to the states and before I flew back to London, so I decided to try another apartment. For my last night, I stayed in the Banchi Vecci suite (which is also owned by Your Suite Rome and is just around the corner from the last, so all previous comments still apply!) This 65 square meter apartment came with all the same luxuries as the last, just with one bedroom instead of two (perfect for people traveling solo or as a couple). The living room was so spacious and had the same gorgeous wood-beam ceilings (I loved sitting in there, drinking wine and people watching out the window). 

I had a fantastic stay in both of these units and I can say with confidence that staying here offers the best of both worlds. So whether you're traveling solo or with a group, you can experience Rome as a local without compromising modern, luxury amenities and a friendly, knowledgable host.

Thanks so much to Your Suite Rome for having us!

 

DI RIENZO PANTHEON PALACE

My other apartment experience in Rome was my very first visit. My family and I stayed at Di Rienzo: a family-run bed and breakfast that offers luxury accommodations, shopping and dining experiences. 

Pantheon Palace is a historic building in style of the fourteenth century. All of their apartments are located on the same Piazza as the Pantheon, one of Rome's most iconic landmarks. My family and I spent every night at their restaurant (which I'll get to in my "Where to Eat" post later this week) drinking wine and marveling at this ancient masterpiece. While that memory alone is enough for me to recommend staying here, we truly couldn't have had a better experience with our hosts. Every time I've been back to Rome since, I've made a point to go to Di Rienzo to see my friends (who treated me like family).

While it's been a few years since I've stayed there, I still can't say enough wonderful things and I have no doubt that anyone would love it. If you're looking to stay right next to an iconic Roman landmark and experience the hospitality of a wonderful Italian family, look no further than Di Rienzo. 

Again, there are tons of great places to stay in Rome (although I'd argue the ones above are hard to beat). Have any other questions about accommodations in the Eternal city? Let me know in the comments below!

Stay tuned for more Rome travel tips this week-- we still have a lot to cover about where to eat and what to do!

xx

Whitney