Everyone should take the time to embrace some Roman culture, whether your inspiration is food, culture or art writes Karen Creed
What I like about Rome is that however you spend your time Рwhether it is touring the iconic sights, dining in a trattoria or just simply relaxing in a caf̩ by the Spanish Steps Рit all encompasses a distinct Italian experience. My first holiday to Rome was on a school tour where we spent four days being shown around the famous sites that we were only too familiar with from our history books. What I love about the Italian capital is that on every return visit I discover something different, like a fascinating museum, a newly opened boutique, or best of all, another restaurant worth raving about.
Buon Appetito
As the home of lasagne and Frascati wine, you can be sure to dine well in Rome. Campo di Fiori and Trastevere are heralded for typical Roman fare but you should also enjoy at least one meal in a neighborhood trattoria, the kind of place where the owner is also the chef. These places are usually very reasonably priced and it is your best way to see how the average Italian enjoys a meal.The last time I was in Rome I followed Rick Stein’s guide to eating out in Rome and all his recommendations got a big thumbs up. Granted they were all located close to the tourist traps – Spanish Steps, Campo di Fiori, and The Trevi Fountain – but each restaurant surpassed the standard I was expecting. The great thing about Rome is if you are not keen on spending a fortune, there are many reputable places serving pizza and pasta dishes for €8, while bakeries like Antico Forno Roscioli near the Campo de Fiori offer bargain priced pizza rossa and bianca, pastries and a hot lunch counter. You’ll pay euro 1.50 for a slice of the pizza rossa or up to euro 10 for a hearty hot lunch.
Sights To See
The Vatican and Colosseum are the two star attractions for many visitors to Rome, but some of the lesser known sights are just as amazing. If you happen to be visiting the Roman Forum, take some time out to visit Palatine Hill as well. The entrance is not only close by the Forum but it also takes you into an area which is among the oldest parts of all of Rome. With over 400 churches in the historic center of the city alone, it’s unlikely that you’ll walk down a street in Rome without seeing one of these religious buildings. Another captivating feature of the city is the fountain. Some of the most famous include the Fountain of Neptune, Fountain of Triton and of course The Trevi Fountain. Be sure to throw a few coins in to guarantee your return to the Eternal city.
Getting Around
A three day travel pass (Biglietto Turistico Integrato 3 giorni) costs euro 11 per person and allows you to use any public transport within the city during this time. They also have one-day travel passes and short-term tickets. Rome’s rather small subway system is good for trips across town from the main train station (Termini) and not as complex as the Paris metro. Fortunately, many of the top ancient sites can be seen on foot because of their proximity. Likewise, the Vatican is mainly an indoor, walking tour. Driving and finding parking can be frustrating in Rome but car rentals can be good for touring outside the city.
Mixing With Locals
I like to have breakfast in true Roman style, joining the locals in one of the city’s numerous café bars. They start their day typically with a croissant and a cappuccino. After breakfast espresso and short coffees become the drinks of the day. A must for any ice-cream lover is a gelato of which there are many decadent flavours to choose from. At night you can take your ice-cream with you on a traditional passeggiata around the city – a walk that Romans usually embark on after a hearty meal. One place to experience local life is at Piazza del Popolo, once Rome’s northern gate. Crowds of Italians are often shopping in this area while others wander about the piazza. An obvious destination from there is idyllic Piazza di Spagna, which is full of people day and night.
Romance All Around
Of all the famous Italian cities, Rome is the obvious romantic. Even if you are sharing your romantic rendez-vous with thousands of other tourists, this city is still intimate for a couple’s break. For the thrill alone of dining near the Spanish Steps, sharing a romantic moment over a gelato in Campo di Fiori or sipping a cappuccino beside the Trevi Fountain, Rome oozes endless opportunities for romance.
After Dark
Rome is an obvious romantic break, but that’s not to say it doesn’t know how to get the party started either. A hive of activity is guaranteed in and around Campo di Fiori and the nearby clubs guarantee late night partying. The city has a number of charming wine bars and pubs, among them the cozy Il Goccetto near Campo de Fiori. For a real treat few places in Rome are dreamier than the terraced garden of the Hotel de Russie. Drinks will set you back €12 each but the view is worth this one off experience.
Where To Stay
When planning a hotel, consider whether you want to be near transport or be in a hotel that is tucked neatly on a medieval street. You’ll undoubtedly have a great stay, wherever your accommodation, but hotel location is bound to make a difference to your Rome experience. The area surrounding the main train station (Termini) is known for its budget hotels. Centro Storico (’historic centre’) is the name given to Rome’s central area of winding medieval streets, built over the Campo Marzo. This is where you will find Rome’s most beautiful squares and fountains, including Piazza Navona.
Italian Style
Avid shoppers can satisfy their desires in La Furla and similar boutiques. Via dei Condotti, directly opposite the Spanish Steps, is home to many of the biggest names in fashion and jewellery. Along the network of picturesque streets in either direction are scores of other shops where your credit card can be put to good use. For edible souvenirs countless little shops all around the centre sell exciting pasta, sauces, and culinary specialities from all around Italy. Antiques are big business in Rome and the best streets for antique shopping are Via dei Coronari in the Centro Storico, and Via del Babuino.
ROME TIPS
Beware of pickpockets. This is probably standard advice anywhere, but Roman tourist sites tend to be very crowded and it’s easier here to lose track of your valuables. There are criminals out there who are well aware of this and will take advantage.
Eating out late usually means a better atmosphere. As in many European capitals, the evening meal in Rome is a multi-course, slowly enjoyed affair that begins as late as 9pm. Also portions are generally large so you might not need to go for the three courses every night.
Useful sites for visitors coming to Rome include www.aboutroma.com and www.romeguide.it
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