Rome: Off the Beaten Path

Have you visited Rome before and gotten all of the main touristy things out of the way? You've seen the Colosseum, the Vatican, the Roman Forum. You're looking for something a little bit different and a little less overly broadcasted? Then this is the guide for you!!

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Random Things To Do in Rome

Museum and Crypt of the Capuchin Friars

@kyliekinsella

This is a MUST visit in my book. It is so unique and I doubt you'll find another museum like it. In this church there are several crypts designed completely with human bones. All of the decoration from the floor to the ceiling, including the lamps, are made with the bones of the monks who worked in the church. For some people this might be too much, but I was amazed at the detail. I felt very calm and meditative, just looking in wonder at the crypts. I would 100% suggest this if you are okay with some macabre vibes.

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Giardino degli Aranci

@kyliekinsella

If I lived in the city I think I would come here all the time. The gardens are small, but glorious. The oranges in these trees add such a beautiful color to the park. If you're looking for some spectacular views of the city, then you don't want to miss these gardens!

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Knights of Malta Keyhole

@kyliekinsella

If you're looking for a very unique POV make sure you peak through the Knights of Malta Keyhole. You'll be looking through three countries 'technically' - Malta, Rome and Vatican City. If you go early then you shouldn't have to wait in a big line, but it does get busy at peak hours and it takes people longer to look through a hole than you expect lol

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Church of St. Louis of the French

@kyliekinsella

The churches in Rome are truly on another level. And that's coming from someone who lived in Spain! This is an ornate and beautiful church right in the heart of the city and definitely worth a visit.

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Mosè di Michelangelo

@kyliekinsella

This is a pretty well-known sculpture, but it's an easy one to add in to your itinerary. There's no line to get into the church to see it and there's no fee. Win-Win!!

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Doria Pamphili Gallery

@kyliekinsella

This is an art gallery in the heart of Rome (close to the Trevi Fountain) and it is definitely worth the €16 ticket. The art collection has some incredible still life paintings, interesting sculptures, parts of sarcophagi and the most intricately painted ceilings. I loved the various rooms in the gallery, and the hallways themselves are art. This would be a great place to take some nice pics of yourself enjoying art and culture ;)

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Galleria Sciarra

@kyliekinsella

A quick stop to take a photo of this elegant palace atrium with lavish frescoes & a glass-&-iron roof dating to the late 19th century. This is an office building and is closed on the weekends.

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Largo di Torre Argentina

@kyliekinsella

These ruins in Rome are particularly interesting because they are home to a large colony of cats. You can see them sunbathing, exploring the grounds and if you're lucky they might even come up and say "Ciao"!

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Foro di Augusto

@kyliekinsella

There is a hidden back entrance to this forum that takes you along a little walkway through the ruins. the tucked-away entrance can be found on Via Campo Carleo in the Monti area. You're able to partially walk through the forum and get a closer look at it, 100% for free!

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Porta Portese

@kyliekinsella

On a Sunday morning, this ancient city gate will lead you to a massive flea market. Porta Portese market is the most famous and largest market in Rome and a Sunday ritual for stylish Romans. If you are a vintage/secondhand shopping lover then you DO NOT want to miss this market. There were leather boots being sold for €3!! Lovely vintage clothes for €1!!! I could not believe my eyes, seriously!

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Coppedè Quarter

@kyliekinsella

This was one of my favorite things I did on my last visit to Rome. Hidden behind the main streets of Quartiere Trieste is the bizarre and elaborate district of Coppedè. The architecture here is unlike anything else! It's outside of the tourist area, so this is really off the beaten path.

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Monti

@kyliekinsella

If you're into vintage shopping, this is the neighbourhood for you! Very central and with loads of great vintage shops. You'll be hard pressed not to find a gem here. I've gone and listed some vintage shops below. - Pifebo Vintage Shop - King Size Vintage - Pulp vintage - Humana vintage - Moll Flanders

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Via Margutta, 51

@kyliekinsella

If you're a movie buff like me then you will know this iconic street in Rome from the movie Roman Holiday. You can wander the street and imagine you're Audrey Hepburn as a European heiress trying to enjoy her freedom in the big city.

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What to Eat/Drink and Where

La Casa del Caffè Tazza d'Oro

@kyliekinsella

Sit on the patio and enjoy a granita here. You will have to pay an extra charge to sit outside, but this is such a nice little patio right on the bustling pedestrian cobblestones. Granita originally comes from Sicily (like most amazing things) but the one here is delicious and refreshing!

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Sant' Eustachio Caffè

@kyliekinsella

This cafe is famous for its home-roast beans, blended with water from an ancient aqueduct. I suggest getting a maritozzo here - a brioche bun scented with orange zest, vanilla and honey, then filled with whipped cream. It is delicious and the perfect thing to start your day alongside your coffee. I also suggest trying the moretto!

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Supplì Roma

@kyliekinsella

When you're in Rome you do as the Romans do and eat many, many supplìs! These fried rice balls (not arancini, but similar) are a must try when in Rome. Supplì Roma is a popular spot to grab this tasty snack in Trastevere, but you can find them everywhere.

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Rooftop Spritzeria Monti

@kyliekinsella

This rooftop bar in Monti has some incredible sunset views of the city. The perfect place to sip your aperol spritz. It is a bit pricey, so you're paying for the views. But it's worth it to go once and try some of their cocktails-turned-spritz.

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Pompi Tiramisù

@kyliekinsella

The most delicious tiramisù ever!! They've got some other flavours, but you can't beat the original. This shop is located just off of the Spanish Steps, so prime location.

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La Famiglia

@kyliekinsella

There are so many dishes you could try here, but I suggest the cacio e pepe. This is THE pasta dish of Rome. It's super simple, but my god is it scrumptious. I could eat it every day honestly.

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Biblio Bar Roma

@kyliekinsella

One of my favorite finds! This spot has everything; epic views, refreshing aperol spritz, energetic espesso and books galore! I want to go back to Rome just to sit in this patio by the castle again!

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Sciascia Caffè 1919

@kyliekinsella

My favorite cafe we visited, so many great options for coffee. You have to try their chocolate espresso, of course. They also have granita and some wonderful pastries to get you started for your day (or as a merienda in the afternoon).

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Gelateria Fassi - Gelato artigianale a Roma dal 1880

@kyliekinsella

Gelateria Fassi is a classic and enduring gelateria in Rome. In 1880 Giacomo and Giuseppina Fassi opened a shop selling ice and beer, meanwhile experimenting with sorbets. Giovanni Fassi became an apprentice pastry chef and ice cream maker at the royal house, immediately gaining the reputation of "sovereign ice cream maker". This gelateria has many flavors that you can try, but I suggest the rice (riso). I was actually blown away by how much I loved this gelato. You also can't go wrong with lemon or tiramisù.

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Terrazza Caffarelli

@kyliekinsella

This is another spot to get some nice views of the city (for free) or for the price of a coffee or orange juice. I suggest trying some orange juice in Rome because they use blood oranges and they're so sweet and delicious. This cafe is part of the Capitoline Hill in the very centre of Rome!

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Mercato Centrale

@kyliekinsella

If you have to take the train then this market in the station is a great place to stop for a last Italian lunch. I suggest grabbing some Roman pizza and a trapizzino (a special sandwich made with pizza dough).

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Antico Forno Roscioli

@kyliekinsella

This renowned bakery & deli founded in 1972 is popular for its crispy, thin-crust Roman-style pizzas. I would definitely recommend grabbing yourself a slice here (or many slices). Make sure you don't go too close to closing hours otherwise you'll have few options to choose from.

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR

iliketravelandmovies

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Hi! I'm Kylie, a passionate traveler based in the beautiful city of Dublin, Ireland. I have a deep love for exploring new places and sharing my experiences with others. Whether it's uncovering hidden gems in Dublin, wandering through the charming streets of European cities, or immersing myself in the culture and language of a new destination, I live for the thrill of discovery and connection. I approach travel with a blend of curiosity, spontaneity, and meticulous planning to ensure memorable and hassle-free experiences. I firmly believe that travel has the power to inspire, educate, and connect us to the world around us. It's about stepping out of our comfort zones, learning from different perspectives, and creating lasting memories. From hidden gems and local favourites to must-see attractions and events, I'm here to provide you with insider knowledge to make your trip to Dublin and Ireland truly unforgettable. Whether you're interested in exploring historic sites, sampling the best of the Dublin food scene, or immersing yourself in nature, I'm here to help you navigate the ins and outs of traveling in Ireland. Let me be your go-to resource for making the most of your time in the Emerald Isle!

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