Hotel Stays
Here are some budget and moderate hotels in Rome, along with their price ranges:Budget Hotels:
1. Hotel Art (€50-€80 per night)
* Address: Via Alessandro Volta 8, 00165 Rome
* Distance from city center: 1.5 km
* Amenities: Free Wi-Fi, air conditioning, breakfast included
2. Hotel Panda (€40-€70 per night)
* Address: Via dei Tribunali 107, 00186 Rome
* Distance from city center: 2 km
* Amenities: Free Wi-Fi, air conditioning, breakfast included
3. Hotel Aventino (€45-€75 per night)
* Address: Via della Lungaretta 16, 00186 Rome
* Distance from city center: 3 km
* Amenities: Free Wi-Fi, air conditioning, breakfast included
4. Ostello dei Pellegrini (€30-€60 per night)
* Address: Piazza dei Tribunali 134, 00186 Rome
* Distance from city center: 2 km
* Amenities: Free Wi-Fi, air conditioning, lockers for luggage
Moderate Hotels:
1. Hotel Panda (€80-€120 per night)
* Address: Via dei Tribunali 107, 00186 Rome
* Distance from city center: 2 km
* Amenities: Free Wi-Fi, air conditioning, breakfast included
2. Hotel Jolly (€90-€140 per night)
* Address: Via dei Corazzieri 1, 00187 Rome
* Distance from city center: 1.5 km
* Amenities: Free Wi-Fi, air conditioning, breakfast included
3. Hotel des Artistes (€100-€150 per night)
* Address: Via della Lungaretta 14, 00186 Rome
* Distance from city center: 3 km
* Amenities: Free Wi-Fi, air conditioning, breakfast included
4. Hotel Quirinale (€120-€180 per night)
* Address: Via Ludovisi 49, 00187 Rome
* Distance from city center: 1.5 km
* Amenities: Free Wi-Fi, air conditioning, breakfast included
Please note that prices may vary depending on the time of year, with peak season (June to September) typically being more expensive than off-peak season. It's always a good idea to research and compare prices before booking a hotel.
Suggested Itinerary
Here's a suggested itinerary for a 3-day visit to Rome:Day 1:
* 9:00 AM: Start the day with a delicious Italian breakfast at a local café or bakery.
* 10:00 AM: Visit the Colosseum (open from 8:30 AM), one of Rome's most iconic landmarks. Take a guided tour or explore on your own.
* 12:30 PM: Head to the nearby Roman Forum (open from 8:30 AM), a sprawling archaeological site filled with ancient ruins.
* 2:00 PM: Take a break for lunch at a local trattoria or osteria, trying some classic Roman dishes like carbonara, amatriciana, or cacio e pepe.
* 4:00 PM: Visit the Pantheon (open daily from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM and 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM), a magnificently preserved ancient temple with an incredible dome. Stop by the nearby Trevi Fountain for a picturesque photo op.
* 7:00 PM: Enjoy a romantic dinner at a Michelin-starred restaurant like La Rosetta or La Gensola. Be sure to make a reservation well in advance!
Day 2:
* 9:00 AM: Start the day exploring the Vatican City, an independent city-state within Rome. Begin at the Vatican Museums (open from 9:00 AM), which houses some of the world's most famous works of art, including Michelangelo's Sistine Chapel frescoes.
* 1:00 PM: Take a break for lunch at a nearby café or restaurant, trying some of the delicious Italian cuisine.
* 2:30 PM: Visit St. Peter's Basilica (open daily from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM), a stunning example of Renaissance and Baroque architecture. Be sure to climb to the dome for breathtaking views of the city.
* 5:00 PM: Cross the Tiber River to the charming neighborhood of Trastevere, known for its narrow streets, charming piazzas, and lively nightlife. Pop into a local wine bar or café for a glass of vino or a cappuccino.
Day 3:
* 9:00 AM: Start the day exploring the charming neighborhood of Monti, filled with narrow streets, charming piazzas, and picturesque views. Visit the beautiful Santa Maria Maggiore basilica (open daily from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM), a stunning example of Byzantine architecture.
* 12:30 PM: Enjoy lunch at a local trattoria or osteria, trying some of the best pasta dishes in Rome like carbonara, amatriciana, or cacio e pepe.
* 2:30 PM: Explore the charming Villa Borghese park, a peaceful oasis in the heart of Rome. Take a stroll, rent a boat, or enjoy the gorgeous views from the park's many cafes and restaurants.
* 6:00 PM: End the day with a romantic dinner at a Michelin-starred restaurant like La Pergola or La Gensola. Be sure to make a reservation well in advance!
Of course, there's always more to see and discover in Rome, but this itinerary should give you a taste of the city's history, culture, and cuisine. Buon viaggio!
Suggested Restaurants
Here are some highly-recommended restaurants in Rome, along with their price ranges:Fine Dining
1. La Pergola (€€€€): A 2-Michelin-starred restaurant located in the Hilton Rome Cavalieri hotel. Offers refined Italian cuisine with a focus on seasonal ingredients. Price range: €150-€250 per person.
2. Il Pagliaccio (€€€): A 1-Michelin-starred restaurant in the heart of Rome, serving creative Italian cuisine. Price range: €90-€180 per person.
Classic Roman Cuisine
1. La Rosetta (€€): A historic restaurant located near the Pantheon, serving traditional Roman dishes like carbonara and amatriciana. Price range: €40-€70 per person.
2. La Gensola (€€): A cozy trattoria in Trastevere, serving classic Roman dishes like cacio e pepe and rigatoni alla vaccinara. Price range: €25-€40 per person.
Modern Italian Cuisine
1. Glass Hostaria (€€): A modern restaurant in the city center, serving creative Italian dishes with a focus on seasonal ingredients. Price range: €35-€60 per person.
2. Il Margutta (€€): A vegetarian and vegan-friendly restaurant in the heart of Rome, offering innovative plant-based dishes. Price range: €20-€35 per person.
Casual Eats
1. Supplizio (€): A popular spot for supplì (fried risotto balls filled with mozzarella) and other Roman street food. Price range: €10-€15 per person.
2. Pizzeria La Montecarlo (€€): A casual pizzeria in the city center, serving delicious Neapolitan-style pizzas. Price range: €15-€25 per person.
Budget-Friendly
1. Sant'Ercolano (€): A cozy trattoria in the Termini neighborhood, serving traditional Roman dishes at affordable prices. Price range: €10-€15 per person.
2. Gelato di San Crispino (€): A famous gelato shop with multiple locations around Rome, offering unique flavors like ricotta and honey. Price range: €5-€10 per person.
Note:
* € (€5-€20): Casual eats, snack, or dessert
* €€ (€20-€50): Mid-range restaurant
* €€€ (€50-€100): Fine dining
* €€€€ (€100+): Luxury fine dining
Please note that prices may vary depending on seasonal ingredients, wine pairings, and other factors. It's always a good idea to check with the restaurant for the most up-to-date pricing.
Local Food
Roman cuisine! Rome is known for its rich culinary heritage, shaped by its history and cultural influences. Here are some traditional Roman dishes and foods you should try when visiting Rome:1. Carbonara: A classic Roman pasta dish made with spaghetti, bacon or pancetta, eggs, and parmesan cheese.
2. Amatriciana: Another famous Roman pasta dish, made with guanciale (cured pork jowl), tomatoes, garlic, and Pecorino Romano cheese, served with bucatini (thick, hollow spaghetti).
3. Cacio e Pepe: A simple yet delicious pasta dish made with Pecorino Romano cheese, black pepper, and sometimes black truffles.
4. Supplì: Fried risotto balls filled with mozzarella cheese and tomato sauce, typically served as an appetizer.
5. Trippa alla Romana: Tripe cooked in tomatoes, onions, and garlic, then served with rigatoni pasta.
6. Fritto Misto: A mixed fry of seafood and vegetables, such as shrimp, calamari, and zucchini, served with a side of tartar sauce.
7. Gelato: Rome is famous for its artisanal gelato shops, offering unique flavors like limone (lemon), cioccolato (chocolate), and hazelnut.
8. Pizza Romana: A thin-crust pizza topped with tomato sauce, mozzarella cheese, and anchovies.
9. Arancini: Stuffed rice balls filled with meat ragù, peas, and mozzarella cheese, then fried until crispy.
10. Panettone: A sweet bread loaf typically served during the Christmas season, made with raisins, candied fruits, and sweet wine.
Some popular restaurants and food markets to try these dishes include:
* Trattoria al Moro (Carbonara and Amatriciana)
* La Gensola (Supplì and Fritto Misto)
* La Rosetta (Pizza Romana)
* Mercato Trionfale (vegetable and fruit market with food stalls and restaurants)
* Campo de' Fiori (flea market with food stalls and restaurants)
Enjoy exploring the culinary delights of Rome!
Shopping
Rome is a shopper's paradise, with a mix of high-end boutiques, vintage shops, and local markets. Here are some shopping options to consider:1. Spanish Steps: This iconic square is surrounded by high-end designer boutiques, including Dolce & Gabbana, Bulgari, and Fendi.
2. Via del Corso: This pedestrian street is lined with fashion stores, including H&M, Zara, and Reserved.
3. Via Cola di Rienzo: This street is known for its high-end shopping, with boutiques like Gucci, Prada, and Louis Vuitton.
4. Monti neighborhood: This charming neighborhood is filled with vintage shops, antique stores, and small boutiques selling artisanal products.
5. Porta Portese Flea Market: Head to this flea market on Sundays to find unique vintage items, antiques, and souvenirs.
6. Mercato Monti: Explore this trendy market in the Monti neighborhood, featuring local designers, artisanal goods, and vintage items.
7. Piazza Navona: This charming square is surrounded by historic buildings, artisanal shops, and local boutiques.
8. Campo de' Fiori: This bustling market square is famous for its flower and fruit stalls, as well as souvenir shops and local handicrafts.
9. Via Sistina: This upscale shopping street is lined with luxury boutiques, including Chanel, Dior, and Yves Saint Laurent.
10. Rome Market: Visit this modern market for fresh produce, specialty foods, and local products.
11. Galleria Borghese: While not strictly a shopping center, this beautiful gallery features an impressive museum with an attached gift shop selling art-inspired souvenirs.
Some must-try shopping experiences in Rome include:
* Visiting local artisanal shops for handmade souvenirs and crafts
* Browsing vintage and antique stores in the Monti neighborhood
* Exploring the historic markets and bazaars, like Porta Portese and Campo de' Fiori
* Indulging in shopping at upscale department stores like Rinascente or Coin
* Discovering unique shopping experiences in charming neighborhoods like Trastevere or Prati
Remember to bargain and negotiate prices at traditional markets, and enjoy the shopping experience in this beautiful city!
Regional Wine
Rome! A city steeped in history, architecture, and of course, wine. While Lazio, the region surrounding Rome, is known for its white wines, you can still find a range of options to pair with your Roman culinary delights. Here are some wine suggestions to enhance your Roman experience:1. Fraschetta: A crisp and refreshing white wine, perfect for hot summer days and pairing with seafood or seafood-based dishes. Try a Fraschetta from the Lazio region.
2. Moscato d'Asti: A sweet and sparkling wine, ideal for desserts or as an apéro wine. Try a Moscato d'Asti from the Piedmont region (not Lazio, but it's worth mentioning!).
3. Limbangio: A white wine from the Lazio region, known for its floral and fruity aromas. Pair it with seafood risotto or pasta dishes.
4. Colli Albani: A white wine with a slightly sweet taste, perfect for sipping on its own or pairing with antipasti or lighter dishes.
5. Castelli Romani: A red wine from the Castelli Romani region, known for its rich, fruity flavors. Try pairing it with meat or cheese plates.
Some wine bars and restaurants in Rome worth visiting:
1. Enoteca Franco Fortuni: A wine shop and bar with an impressive selection of Lazio-based wines.
2. La Gensola: A wine bar with a focus on natural and organic wines from Italy.
3. Il Pagliaccio: A Michelin-starred restaurant with an extensive wine list featuring Lazio wines.
4. Ristorante Roscioli: A historic restaurant in the heart of Rome with an impressive wine cellar.
When at a wine bar or restaurant, don't be afraid to ask your server for wine recommendations or clarification on specific wines. Many locals will be happy to share their knowledge and help you find the perfect pairing for your Roman culinary adventure!
Remember to always drink responsibly and enjoy your wine in moderation, as you would in your home country. Cheers, and buon vino!
Nearby places to explore
Rome is an amazing base to explore more of Italy and the surrounding regions. Here are some other cities and towns you might consider visiting:In Tuscany (1-2 hours from Rome):
1. Florence: The birthplace of the Renaissance, known for its art, architecture, and stunning Duomo.
2. Siena: A charming medieval town with a beautiful piazza and a famous Palio horse race.
3. San Gimignano: A hilltop town famous for its medieval towers and stunning views of the Tuscan countryside.
In Umbria (2-3 hours from Rome):
1. Perugia: A charming university town known for its prestigious university, medieval center, and chocolate!
2. Assisi: A UNESCO World Heritage town famous for its beautiful Basilica of San Francesco and stunning views of the surrounding valleys.
3. Spoleto: A charming town in the heart of Umbria, known for its beautiful piazzas, Renaissance architecture, and summer festival.
In Abruzzo (2-3 hours from Rome):
1. Pescara: A lively coastal city with a beautiful beach and a vibrant student population.
2. Chieti: A charming town with a rich history, known for its beautiful cathedral and stunning views of the Adriatic coast.
In Campania (2-3 hours from Rome):
1. Naples: A vibrant city known for its stunning coastline, rich history, and delicious food (try the pizza!).
2. Pompeii: A UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its ancient ruins, which offer a glimpse into life before the devastating volcanic eruption.
3. Sorrento: A picturesque coastal town on the Amalfi Coast, known for its stunning views, beautiful beaches, and stunning cliffside villas.
In Northern Italy (3-4 hours from Rome):
1. Venice: A unique and breathtakingly beautiful city built on stilts, famous for its canals, St. Mark's Square, and stunning Byzantine architecture.
2. Milan: A fashion capital, known for its stunning Duomo, Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, and world-class museums.
These are just a few of the many amazing cities and towns you can visit around Rome. Depending on your interests and the amount of time you have, you're sure to find plenty of other hidden gems to explore!
Local Transport
Rome has a well-developed public transportation system, making it easy to get around the city without a car. Here are the main public transportation options in Rome:1. Metropolitana (Metro): Rome has three metro lines (A, B, and C) that cover many areas of the city. The metro operates from 5:30 AM to 10:30 PM, Monday to Saturday, and from 7:00 AM to 10:30 PM on Sundays.
2. Autobus (Bus): Rome has an extensive network of buses that cover most areas of the city. You can catch a bus from one of the many bus stops or terminals. Buses operate from 5:30 AM to 10:30 PM, Monday to Saturday, and from 7:00 AM to 10:30 PM on Sundays.
3. Tram: Rome has two tram lines (T2 and T3) that connect the city center to the outer neighborhoods. Trams operate from 5:30 AM to 10:30 PM, Monday to Saturday, and from 7:00 AM to 10:30 PM on Sundays.
4. Ferrovia (Train): Rome has a train station (Stazione Termini) that connects to other parts of Italy and Europe. You can take a train to nearby cities like Florence, Venice, and Naples.
5. Treni Regionali (Regional Trains): This is a commuter rail service that connects Rome to nearby cities and towns. Trains operate from 5:30 AM to 10:30 PM, Monday to Saturday, and from 7:00 AM to 10:30 PM on Sundays.
6. Metro + Bus: You can use the metro to get around the city center and then transfer to a bus to reach outer neighborhoods.
7. Bike: Rome has a bike-sharing system called "Bike Sharing Romando" that offers 24/7 service.
8. Car Sharing: Rome has several car-sharing companies that offer 24/7 service, perfect for short trips or errands.
9. Ride-hailing Apps: Uber is available in Rome, along with other ride-hailing apps like Free Now (formerly MyTaxi) and Innova (formerly Juno).
10. Taxi: Taxis are readily available in Rome, but be aware that they can be more expensive than public transportation.
Tips:
* Buy a ROMA Ticket, which is a reusable ticket that can be used on all public transportation in Rome.
* You can buy tickets at tobacco shops, newsstands, or authorized ticket vending machines.
* Be mindful of pickpocketing and petty crime at public transportation hubs.
* Plan your route in advance using the ATAC website or the Rome City Pass app.
* Some public transportation services may be limited on Sundays or during holidays, so plan ahead.
Remember to always validate your ticket before using public transportation in Rome to avoid fines.