Rome: one of the most visited tourist cities in Europe, attracting over 4 million visitors per year. An obvious choice perhaps, but there’s a reason for that – its beauty, charm and historical architecture are second-to-none. Not to mention the delicious food and wine…
Winter might not be the most traditional time to visit Rome, but it has its own benefits. Streets draped with twinkling fairy lights make it a festive affair, but with its warmer climes it’s easy to explore in comfort. So, for a weekend in the most beautiful city in the world, here’s what to do, see, eat and drink.
What to see
The best thing about Rome is that, despite being a capital city, the central part is actually very walkable.
Start with the Vatican City and take in the views from Piazza San Pietro. The home of Catholicism and Pope Francis himself, the Vatican City is a separate established city state sitting in the centre of Rome. Going inside the walls of the city is worth it, especially to see the famous Sistine Chapel. But be warned – during the summer months it can get very busy, with hordes of tourist groups marring the atmosphere. Queues can be up to two hours to get inside, so if going at the weekends or in peak season try to book ahead.
St Peter’s Basilica is arguably one of the most impressive buildings in Italy, but again be prepared to queue! However, the sensational view across Rome from the top is well worth it.
Next cross the Ponte Sant’Angelo bridge, right in front of the impressive Castel Sant-Angelo, and walk towards Piazza Navona. One of the most touristy – but beautiful – piazzas in Rome, soak up the atmosphere around the Fontana dei Fiumi, where each of the statues represents a famous river. Whilst you should never eat in any of the tourist restaurants right on the Piazza, the streets surrounding Piazza Navona are great places for a quick lunch, with many serving fresh, authentic pasta for 5 euros – a steal in one of Italy’s most expensive cities!
A short walk then takes you to the Pantheon, an impressive feat of Roman engineering. Built in 120AD by Emperor Hadrian as a temple to all Gods, it is still standing today with minimal reconstruction. Its giant dome was the largest in the world for 1300 years and still today is the largest unsupported dome in the world. Entrance is free.
A little further on is the famous Trevi Fountain. It has recently been subject to reconstruction but is once again open for viewing!
Then see Piazza del Popolo, a straight walk down Via Due Macelli/Via del Babuino, which passes by the Spanish Steps. For a more authentic experience, walk down the street parallel to Babuino to see art galleries, cafes and beautiful ivy covered Roman buildings, one of which was lived in by Joe Bradley in the famous Audrey Hepburn film Roman Holiday.
One you reach Piazza Popolo, climb the steps to see a magnificent view of Rome.
An alternative walk involves veering in the other direction from Piazza Navona, passing by the famous Campo dei Fiori and the Italian government at Montecitorio and walking straight down Via del Corso, one of the biggest roads in Rome, to Piazza Venezia. Climb the stairs for an aerial view of the city from Campodoglio and a little terrace on Piazzale Caffarelli.
Then continue onto the famous Palatine Hill and, of course, the Colosseum.
Where to eat and drink
Roman specialities include Pasta Carbonara, Amatriciana and Cacio e Pepe. For great pasta in an authentic neighbourhood, head to Trattoria Da Enzo 29 in the pretty Trastevere district.
Also in the Trastevere district is Taverna Trilussa, a small but cute restaurant serving Roman dishes.
Alternatively, for a more central location, Osteria il Sostegno has a great little courtyard and is right behind the Pantheon. The pasta and wine is delicious and very reasonable for the centre of Rome – however, if you’re a tourist, don’t expect friendly service!
Bar Necci in the Pigneto district, just outside the walls of the city, has a great terrace and was once frequented by Pier Paolo Pasolini, the famous Italian film director.
For those on a budget, the San Lorenzo area is a good bet. Close to the university, it offers plenty of great cheap bars. Via di San Giovanni in Laterano, right under the the Colosseum has several student-friendly bars along it, and is the centre of Rome’s gay district.
How to get around
The easiest option is of course the Metro, which has three main lines – conveniently named A, B and C. A 24 hour ticket costs just 7 euros, or 1.5 euros for one journey. However, there aren’t many Metro stops right in the centre, with Barberini and Colosseo being two of the closest. Buses can be a good option, but are often slow and crowded in Rome.
To see Rome like a true Roman, borrow a car. Unlike London, parking right in the centre of Rome is cheap (1 or 2 euros an hour) and parking along side streets is readily available – on Sundays, parking everywhere in Rome is free. Car sharing apps such as car2go are an easy way to borrow a car for a few hours at a time, hassle free.