THE INSIDE GUIDE : ROME

Rome: more than just ancient ruins, nestled in the heart of Italy is a city steeped in history and a culture that pulses with life. Where modern cafes and boutiques intertwine with centuries-old architecture, and where the scent of freshly brewed espresso fills the air of the piazzas. Around every corner awaits a new discovery, a hidden gem, and a glimpse into the soul of Rome, where the past and present merge in a timeless dance of beauty and intrigue.

stay

Rome has a diverse tapestry of neighbourhoods, each with its own distinct character and allure. From the historic cobblestone streets of Trastevere, where medieval charm meets bohemian chic, to the upscale boutiques and elegant squares of the Tridente district, you will be spoilt for choice when choosing a play to stay in Rome..

Centro Storico

W Hotel 26/36, Via Liguria, 00187 Roma RM, Italy

Hotel De Russie Via del Babuino, 9, 00187 Roma RM, Italy

The Rome EDITION Salita di San Nicola da Tolentino 14, Trevi, 00187 Rome, Italy 

DOM Hotel Roma Via Giulia 131, Navona, 00186 Rome, Italy

Bio Hotel Raphael Largo Febo, 2, 00186 Roma RM, Italy

Monti

Hotel Capo d´África Colosseo Via Capo d'Africa 54, 00184 Rome, Italy 

Anantara Palazzo Naiadi Rome Hotel Piazza della Repubblica 47, 00185 Rome, Italy

Villa Spalletti Trivelli Via Piacenza 4, Rione Monti, 00184 Rome, Italy 

The Hoxton Rome L.go Benedetto Marcello, 220, 00198 Roma RM, Italy

Trastevere

Chapter Roma Via Santa Maria Dè Calderari 47, Pantheon, 00186 Rome, Italy 

Donna Camilla Savelli Via Garibaldi 27, Trastevere, 00153 Rome, Italy

Horti 14 Borgo Trastevere Hotel 14 Via San Francesco di Sales, Trastevere 00165 Rome, Italy

Villa Agrippina Gran Meliá Via del Gianicolo, 3, 00165 Roma RM, Italy

We recently stayed in the leafy Salario neighbourhood, Rome’s unsung hot new neighbourhood, which is home to The Hoxton Rome.

Read our full review on The Hoxton Rome here

The Hoxton Rome

@TheHoxton

DOM Hotel, Roma

@domroma

“where every stone tells a story and every street whispers a secret”

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From the iconic ruins of the Colosseum and the majestic Pantheon to the awe-inspiring Vatican City, Rome's rich history unfolds at every turn. Amongst charming piazzas and bustling trattorias, you can instantly feel the heartbeat of this dynamic city, where past and present intertwine.

Alongside the historic sites, we also love discovering hidden gems that most visitors often overlook, so we’ve add a few of our favourite not-tourist things to see in the mix that we definitely think is worth a visit for sure.

Whether sampling the delicious food in Trastevere, tossing a coin into the Trevi Fountain or hanging out in one their cool and unique wine bars, Rome captivates the senses and leaves a lasting impression on all who wander its storied streets.

Villa Borghese: A stunning park in the heart of Rome, where you will find a small lake surrounded by beautiful gardens, fountains, and greenery. Stroll along its shaded pathways or hire a boat for a romantic sail across the water and take in the scenery.

Quartierre Capide. This hidden gem feels like you’re stepping into a fairy tale; ornate buildings adorned with intricate carvings, mosaics and whimsical sculptures such as the quirky Fountain of Frogs. This is a really unique neighbourhood with little to no tourists - we loved it here.

Trastavere - Foodies unite. In this neighbour hood you’ll find the best authentic Italian dishes (in our opinion anyway), our favourites were Da Enzo and Tonnarello  - the cacio e pepe was out of this world. Need more info? see our full list of recommendations for where to eat in Rome here

Colosseum: Breath-taking. Seeing this wonder of the world almost feels like a glimpse into the past, allowing you to immerse yourself in events that once unfolded within its walls. Definitely a unique experience and a must see when visiting Rome.

Trevi Fountain: Experience the beauty of one of Rome's most iconic landmarks and make sure to toss a coin into the water to ensure a life of abundance and good fortune.

The Vatican A must see at least once in your life if you’re lucky enough. Also you can tick another country off the list.. when in Rome.

The Aventine Keyhole Located on the Aventine Hill, this small keyhole provides a picturesque frame through which visitors can admire the stunning sight of St. Peter's Basilica perfectly framed by rows of perfectly trimmed trees. It's a must-visit spot for those seeking a unique photo opportunity.

There are endless ways to spend days in Rome, if you’re looking for non-tourist things to do or more detail on each recommendation, see more from our journal entries featured below.

“Rome has timeless beauty and history.”

style

When it comes to style, Rome is synonymous with sophistication, elegance, and timeless glamour. Whether you're strolling along Via dei Condotti or exploring the trendy Trastevere district, Rome offers a wealth of opportunities to indulge in Italian style.

Italian fashion is renowned for its impeccable craftsmanship, luxurious fabrics, and effortless chic. To blend in with the stylish locals, opt for classic pieces with a modern twist. Think tailored blazers, crisp white shirts, and perfectly fitted trousers for a sophisticated look that transitions seamlessly from day to night. Accessories play a crucial role in Italian style, so don't forget to add a statement bag, oversized sunglasses, and a pair of stylish loafers or heels to complete your ensemble.

1. Via dei Condotti: This iconic street is Rome's offers an unparalleled shopping experience amidst the backdrop of historic landmarks such as the Spanish Steps. Home to prestigious designer boutiques including Gucci, Prada and the largest Bottega store in Europe - dangerous.
2. Via del Corso: Head to Via del Corso, one of Rome's main thoroughfares lined with an array of shops ranging from international chains to local boutiques. Here, you'll find everything from trendy fashion finds to stylish souvenirs, making it the perfect place to indulge in some retail therapy without breaking the bank.
3. Trastevere: Explore the cobblestone streets of Trastevere, a bohemian-chic neighbourhood beloved by locals and visitors alike. Here, you'll discover an eclectic mix of vintage stores, artisanal boutiques, and independent designers offering unique pieces that capture the essence of Roman style. Don't miss Mercato di Porta Portese, Rome's largest flea market, where you can dsicover hidden treasures and vintage gems.

soiree

Rome's nightlife is a vibrant blend of modern sophistication and timeless charm. As the sun sets over the ancient city, a palpable energy fills the air, drawing locals and visitors alike to its bustling streets and lively neighbourhoods. From chic rooftop bars offering panoramic views of historic landmarks to cosy wine bars tucked away in narrow alleyways, there's no shortage of places to unwind and socialise.

Rooftops Soirees Rome's rooftops exude a sense of timeless romance and offer a breathtaking perspective of the Eternal City. From chic rooftop lounges such as Zuma (always guarantees the best views and vibes) or for a more authentic Italian vibe, we love Cielo at Hotel De La Ville or Divinity at the Pantheon Hotel. Although not a rooftop, head to Stravinskij Bar at Hotel De Russie for a stunning Italian courtyard experience. We’ve created a full list of our favourite rooftops in Rome that you can find here

The Piazza The city's piazzas come alive after dark, with street performers, outdoor cafes, and the joyful chatter of locals enjoying la dolce vita late into the night, you can’t go wrong.

Restaurants - The city of pasta, pizza and every Italian dish, we would be lying if we said we didn’t come to Rome just for the food alone. On every street you’ll find a fusion of traditional Roman cuisine and contemporary culinary trends, catering to every preference. From cozy trattorias tucked away in charming alleys to elegant fine dining establishments boasting panoramic views of iconic landmarks, Rome's dining scene invites exploration and indulgence. You’ll often find us savoring classic dishes like cacio e pepe at Tonnarello or Da Enzo 29. You can find our full list of the best places to wine and dine in Rome here

Wine Bars Ranging from cosy enotecas tucked away in historic alleyways to chic wine bars with modern flair and inside, you'll find walls adorned with shelves showcasing an impressive selection of Italian wines. We heard the locals love Rimessa. If you’re looking for a full list of the best bars in Rome, click here

Moonlight Wandering Slow evening strolls through Rome's iconic landmarks under the moonlight is always an unforgettable experience. Admire the illuminated Colosseum, Trevi Fountain, and Spanish Steps, which seem to appear even more magical after dark - sometimes the simple things are the most special.

 
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