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Your guide to Rome with personal recommendations from someone who’d visited Rome many times. From my first visit to Rome, I was in complete awe. I’ve been there too many times to count and I can’t wait to get back to visit.
Rome is a big and bustling city, but it doesn’t really feel like that. Yes, during peak season or in the popular spots, it gets super crowded. But, it all seems worth it somehow when you sit in a piazza with an espresso and take in the sounds and smells of Italy.
Rome Must See Spots
The Colosseum + Forum – The Colosseum is my favorite structure ever. I loved touring inside. I love viewing it from every angle and during the day and at night. It can get crowded but don’t miss it.
Trevi Fountain – It’s a smallish area around the fountain so be aware of when you go through the area as it gets too crowded. I’d go early in the morning if you want to see it.
Any Piazza – Navona is a classic. 💎 hidden gem tip: Piazza Cavour if you’re a Morrissey fan, thanks to a certain song.
Shopping near Spanish Steps – lots of name brand shops, high end shops, and boutiques. If you love to shop, this is a great place to waste a way an afternoon.
Janiculum Hill – a great view of the city. You walk up from the Trastevere neighborhood. It’s something I really enjoyed doing, as it seemed a little different from the typical sites. Keep in mind it’s a bit of a walk, and some uphill.
Ponte Sisto – Bridge with an incredible view at night. Worth checking out if you’re in the area in the evening.
Quartiere Coppede – a quiet beautiful neighborhood. I’d seen pictures of the buildings and structures and found myself exploring the area just to take photos and appreciate the delicate designs.
Rome Coffee Spots
Trecaffee – Via dei due Macelli. They serve great coffee, but it’s also a bakery. Great place to pick up your morning coffee and pastry.
Faro – Luminaries of Coffee. Really delicious coffee that also serves pastries and brunch type foods. Cool hip vibe.
Rome Food Spots
Tonnarello – quite a popular place, well worth the hype in my opinion. Make sure to try the crispy artichokes here.
Trapizzino – in Trastevere. Delicious sandwiches, or what I’d call a sandwich/pita. There are a few other locations if you aren’t in the Trastevere area.
La Prosciutteria – near the Trevi Fountain. I was so impressed with the sandwich here.
Restorante Mazze – near Fontana di Trevi and Barberini. Sat outside and had a fantastic dish of pasta.
Delizie di Pizza – served by the slice, they cut of pieces and weigh it. Great place for a quick small meal or to try different types of pizza you may not usually try. Pretty sure this is the place first tried potato on my pizza, and fell in love with it.
Rome Drink Spots
💎 just a tip – find a small piazza, sit outside for a spritz or glass of wine.
Ma Che Siete Venuti A Fa – A really cool craft beer spot. If you’re into craft beer and trying something local, great vibe. Also, downstairs seating in a basement area.
Artisan – incredible craft beer selection. Outdoor seating and indoor. Great selection and cool atmosphere.
What to Try in Rome
Fried artichokes – these are so delicious, get them as an appetizer.
Aperetivo Hour – usually between 6 pm – 8 pm. A time for drinks like some kind of spritz and small snacks like olives, chips, small charcuterie.
Focaccia sandwich – lots of shops that specialize in meats and breads. Even the simplest sandwich is perfect.
Trappazino – Sandwich in Trastevere
Cacio e Pepe – pasta dish
These are all places I’ve tried or been too. And, as soon as I could would return too. Only giving my favorite spots in Rome to try out. Rome is a vast city, so, it greatly depends on the area you’re in, you won’t have trouble finding a beautiful sight or something delicious to try.
TRAVEL ESSENTIALS
flights + getting there → Kiwi
where i’d stay → Booking
esim → Airalo
activities → GetYourGuide