Rome. My first impression of the city in 2014 was that it’s busy, crowded, touristy. Upon my second visit in 2019, I concluded that it is indeed busy, crowded, touristy. While it may not be my favorite place I’ve traveled to, I understand why many love this famous city so much - it’s rich in culture, history, and good food. See below for some of the spots we headed to during our time there and the places we wish we were able to see.
WHERE WE STAYED
This cute Airbnb recommended by Courtney Halverson of Pretty Little Fawn. It was walkable to some of our favorite spots and very affordable. If you haven’t used Airbnb yet, you can get $55 off your first booking with this link
WHERE WE WENT
Trevi Fountain: I know this is obvious, but it really was breathtaking - even with all of the tourists swarming it to get the best photo. The last time I was in Rome it was under construction, so it was pretty amazing to see it for the first time in all its glory. Just go and have your Lizzie McGuire moment, okay?
Spada Galleria: I think we went here because we were pressed for time but still wanted to see some art. I would say skip and try to go to a different museum or gallery. The courtyard is beautiful, though
Musei Capitolini: Gorgeous museum I could have spent hours at. Recommended by my IG friend @zoey_bloom
Trastevere: Colorful area of Rome with lots of shops and restaurants to explore. This was my favorite area when I had visited in 2014
Vintage shopping: We browsed through a handful, but I didn’t write the names anywhere… I’m sure Vogue has you covered, though
The obvious: Pantheon, Piazza Navona, Palantine Hill, Colosseum, Roman Forum, Piazza di Spagna, Via Condotti (for that import tax-free luxury shopping)
WHERE WE ATE
Roscioli: Highly recommended by a few friends. Casual spot with the best cacio e pepe
Pizzeria Da Baffeto: Famous small, family-owned pizzeria where you can get thin, crispy, Roman-style pizza.
Frigidarium: The gelato spot right next to Da Baffeto. So good, we went a few times
Cul De Sac: Popular wine bar suggested by two friends. Great meat and cheese
Ginger: Call me LA, but I really needed something healthy in between all the pizza and pasta. Ginger was a great spot for juice and smoothies - especially in the summer heat
Eitch Borromini: Bought overpriced cocktails for the view
Ponte Sisto: We were told that in the summer there are restaurants lined up along the river so you can eat next to the water. While it was beautiful, the food was mediocre. I’d suggest getting a pizza or sandwich to go and finding a spot where you can sit instead
WHERE WE WOULD HAVE GONE IF WE HAD THE TIME
Galleria Borghese: A beautiful art gallery surrounded by gardens. You need to get tickets in advance.
Museo Hendrik Christian Andersen: Museum of larger-than-life sculptures and paintings
Palazzo Barberini: Palace turned art gallery housing some of Rome’s oldest paintings
Caffe Ciampini: Has the best tramezzini (Roman-style sandwich) with a great view
Al Ceppo: Luxury restaurant with high-quality food and no tourists
Casina Valadier: Luxury spot with a beautiful view and great dishes
Ai Due Ladroni: Traditional eatery with good quality food - the mozzarella is a must
La Trattoria de Gli Amici: A wonderful spot in the Jewish area you’ll have to make a reservation for. Try to get a table outside
Dal Bolognese: Traditional restaurant close to Piazza del Popolo. A famous spot for politicians
Il San Lorenzo: Casual spot with great seafood
Brillo Parlante: Delicious thin crust pizza and wonderful pesto
Piperno: Away from the hustle and bustle of Rome - get the fried artichokes
Al Maro: Romantic spot below the Spanish Steps. Amazing fish. One of the best restaurants in all of Rome
Due Ladroni: Top 5 dinner spots with delicious grilled shrimp
Gusto: Go for Sunday brunch - all you can eat buffet in a beautifully redone Roman building
Giolitti: Gelato spot near the Pantheon - the Riso flavor is a must
Della Palma: Dessert heaven in a beautiful space
Alberto Pico: Amazing Riso gelato that tastes just like real rice pudding with cinnamon and all
