Guide to Rome🛵

Rome🍝

Rome is a city that offers a remarkable blend of history, art, culture, and cuisine, making it a must-visit destination for several compelling reasons.  The city's charming streets and piazzas are perfect for leisurely walks, and its vibrant local culture and delicious cuisine enable one of a kind experiences. Rome is also a city that effortlessly balances its ancient past with a lively, modern atmosphere, offering something for every type of traveler, whether you're interested in history, art, or simply soaking up the Italian way of life.

St. Peter's Basilica

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St. Peter's Basilica, located in Vatican City, is one of the most iconic and revered religious monuments in the world. Its awe-inspiring Renaissance architecture, designed by renowned architects like Michelangelo and Gian Lorenzo Bernini, features a colossal dome and a stunning interior adorned with intricate mosaics, sculptures, and religious artwork. You can hike up to the top of the dome for fantastic views over all of Rome! Also check out the gift shop to mail a postcard from Vatican City!!!

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Saint Peter's Square

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Designed by Gian Lorenzo Bernini, the square is bordered by a colonnade with rows of columns adorned with statues of saints. The square serves as a central gathering place for religious ceremonies and events, accommodating thousands of visitors and pilgrims who come to witness important papal blessings and addresses.

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Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel

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The Vatican Museums, located within Vatican City, are a treasure trove of art and history, housing one of the most extensive and valuable collections in the world. These museums feature an impressive array of masterpieces, including works by Michelangelo, Raphael, and Leonardo da Vinci, along with an extensive collection of ancient Roman, Egyptian, and Etruscan artifacts, and more! Check out the link below to plan ahead what you'd like to see as there are more than 20 museums! I recommend buying tickets in advance at the official website. Lines can get extremely long but you can forego the wait by buying a timed ticket!

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Sistine Chapel

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The Sistine Chapel is one of the most famous and revered art spaces in the world. Its claim to fame lies in the extraordinary frescoes that adorn its ceiling, painted by the Renaissance master Michelangelo. The most iconic of these is the "Creation of Adam," a breathtaking portrayal of God reaching out to touch Adam's hand, which has become an enduring symbol of human potential and divine inspiration.

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Trevi Fountain

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You've surely heard of this Baroque masterpiece in the heart of Rome. This magnificent fountain features a colossal sculpture of Neptune, flanked by Tritons and seahorses, all set within a grandiose, ornate backdrop. Legend says that tossing a coin over your left shoulder into the fountain ensures your return to Rome, making it a popular spot for tourists and a symbol of the eternal romance of Rome!

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Vicus Caprarius-the Water City

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This underground complex reveals the remains of an ancient Roman neighborhood with well-preserved structures, including homes, shops, and a complex water system. Visitors can explore this subterranean world and gain insights into daily life in ancient Rome, with a particular focus on its advanced aqueducts!

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Spanish Steps

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The Spanish Steps, located in the heart of Rome, are a famous set of 135 steps that climb a steep slope between the Piazza di Spagna and the Trinità dei Monti church. The Spanish Steps are a popular gathering spot and a symbol of Rome's timeless allure.

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Passeggiata del Pincio

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The Passeggiata del Pincio is a delightful and scenic promenade in Rome, Italy, located atop the Pincian Hill, overlooking the Piazza del Popolo and the historic city center. Visit for a peaceful stroll amidst greenery, elegant statues, and panoramic views of the city's iconic landmarks, including the Vatican and the Tiber River. This charming walkway is a favorite among locals and tourists alike, providing a tranquil escape from the bustling streets below!

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Villa Borghese

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Villa Borghese is a vast and picturesque public park in the heart of Rome, Italy! The park is also home to several cultural institutions, including the Borghese Gallery, which houses an impressive collection of art and sculptures by renowned artists such as Bernini and Caravaggio.

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Colosseum

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One of the world's most famous landmarks, the Colosseum stands as a symbol of Rome's rich history. This colossal amphitheater, completed in 80 AD, once hosted grand gladiatorial contests and other public spectacles, accommodating tens of thousands of spectators. This is another site it's best to buy times tickets in advance for! Below I've linked the official website where you can do just that!

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Roman Forum

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The Forum was the political, religious, and social hub of the ancient Roman Empire, featuring a multitude of temples, basilicas, and government buildings. Today, it offers visitors a captivating glimpse into the city's rich history, with its well-preserved ruins and iconic structures such as the Temple of Saturn and the Arch of Septimius Severus. Your ticket to the Colosseum should include entrance to the Colosseum, the Forum, & Palatine Hill!

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Palatine Hill

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Palatine Hill is often considered the birthplace of Rome, as it is believed to be where the city's earliest settlements were established. Explore its archaeological remains, including the grand imperial palaces of emperors like Augustus and Domitian, while enjoying panoramic views of the Roman Forum and the city of Rome from its elevated position.

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Monument to Victor Emmanuel II

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Built in honor of Victor Emmanuel II, the first king of unified Italy, the monument serves as a symbol of Italian unification and patriotism. The striking white marble architecture, commanding statues, and sweeping staircases make it a prominent landmark in Rome!

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Campidoglio square

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Campidoglio Square, also known as Capitol Square, is a magnificent piazza in Rome, Italy, designed by Michelangelo during the Renaissance. It is surrounded by three iconic buildings: the Palazzo Senatorio, the Palazzo dei Conservatori, and the Palazzo Nuovo. The square's elegant design and artistic significance make it a focal point for visitors exploring Rome's rich history and cultural heritage. It offers a great elevated view over the Roman Forum, opposite the Colosseum.

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Capitoline Museums

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Basilica of San Clemente

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The Basilica of San Clemente is a remarkable (& bit off the beaten path) historical site known for its unique layers (literally) of history. The complex consists of three levels: the present-day basilica, a 4th-century church, and an even older 1st-century Roman house, which includes a Mithraic temple. Upon a visit descend through time to witness the layers of Rome's history and religious practices!

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Basilica dei Santi Silvestro e Martino ai Monti

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The Basilica dei Santi Silvestro e Martino ai Monti is located in the Monti district of Rome. This ancient basilica is renowned for its early Christian origins, dating back to the 8th century, and its well-preserved medieval architecture. Admire its Romanesque facade, intricate interior frescoes, and a sense of timelessness.

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Domus Aurea

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The Domus Aurea, which translates to "Golden House" in Latin, is located in a park between San Clemente Basilica & Basilica dei Santi Silvestro e Martino ai Monti. It was a massive palace complex built by Emperor Nero in the 1st century AD and was known for its opulence, including gilded walls and ceilings. Today, you can visit to explore its underground ruins & gain insight into the grandeur and architectural innovations of ancient Rome, as well as the lavish lifestyle of Nero.

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Pantheon

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Built in 126 AD, the Pantheon was originally a temple dedicated to all the gods (hence the name "Pantheon") and is known for its massive domed roof, which was a marvel of engineering in its time. Today, it serves as a Roman Catholic church and continues to be celebrated for its architectural beauty, with a perfectly spherical dome and an oculus (an open central hole) that allows sunlight to stream into the interior, creating a breathtaking play of light and shadow.

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Piazza Navona

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Piazza Navona is renowned for its stunning Baroque architecture and is characterized by its elongated oval shape, with three ornate fountains as its focal points. The square is a delightful spot to soak in the vibrant atmosphere of Rome.

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Fiumi Fountain

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The Fontana dei Quattro Fiumi, or the Fountain of the Four Rivers, is an iconic Baroque fountain located in Piazza Navona. Designed by Gian Lorenzo Bernini in the 17th century, it represents four major rivers from different continents, symbolizing the reach of the Catholic Church. The fountain is a masterpiece of sculpture and architecture, with each river god intricately crafted to convey a sense of dynamic movement and dramatic splendor!

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Palazzo Pamphili

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Palazzo Pamphilj, also known as Palazzo Pamphili, is a historic palace located on Piazza Navona. It is renowned for its exquisite Baroque architecture and served as the residence of the influential Pamphili family. The palace features ornate frescoes, opulent interiors, and beautiful galleries, making it an important cultural and architectural landmark in Rome.

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Sant'Agnese in Agone

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Sant'Agnese in Agone is a stunning Baroque church situated on Piazza Navona. Designed by renowned architects Francesco Borromini and Gian Lorenzo Bernini, it is known for its lavish ornamentation, intricate sculptures, and impressive dome. The church is a masterpiece of Baroque architecture and a notable religious and artistic attraction in the heart of Rome!

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Basilica e Monastero Agostiniano Santi Quattro Coronati

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Coppedè Quarter

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The Coppedè Quarter in Rome is a unique and whimsical neighborhood known for its eclectic and Art Nouveau architectural style. Designed by architect Gino Coppedè in the early 20th century, it features a blend of various artistic influences, including Gothic, Baroque, and Renaissance elements.

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Basilica di Santo Stefano Rotondo al Celio

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The Basilica di Santo Stefano Rotondo al Celio is an ancient church located on the Caelian Hill in Rome. It is notable for its circular shape and is one of the oldest Christian churches in the city, dating back to the 5th century. The interior of the basilica features a unique circular layout with a central open space and numerous chapels.

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Santa Maria della Concezione dei Cappuccini

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Santa Maria della Concezione dei Cappuccini, often simply called the Capuchin Crypt, is a macabre yet intriguing religious site in Rome. The crypt beneath the church is decorated with the skeletal remains of over 3,700 Capuchin friars, arranged in intricate patterns and artistic designs. The haunting display serves as a contemplative reminder of mortality and the transient nature of life.

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Park of the Appian Way

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The park covers a large area along the ancient Appian Way, one of the most important Roman roads. Visitors can explore this park to see well-preserved archaeological sites, Roman ruins, and the scenic beauty of the Roman countryside, providing a peaceful escape from the bustling city.

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Catacombs of St. Callixtus

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The Catacombs of St. Callixtus are one of the most significant and extensive Christian catacombs in the city. Dating back to the 2nd century, they served as a burial site for many early Christians, including several popes. A knowledgable guide will walk you through the extensive maze of tombs which are well lit & have high ceilings - very comfortable as far as catacombs go! However, if you would like to see bones you won't find any here. All of the remains and artifacts have been removed.

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Basilica of Santa Maria in Trastevere

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Dating back to the 4th century, the Basilica is a beautiful example of Romanesque and Baroque architecture. The interior is adorned with intricate mosaics, and the church is a popular destination for both locals and tourists, offering a peaceful and aesthetically rich place of worship in the charming Trastevere neighborhood.

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Castel Sant'Angelo

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Castel Sant'Angelo, also known as the Mausoleum of Hadrian, is an iconic fortress and museum in Rome, Italy. Originally built as a mausoleum for Emperor Hadrian and his family in the 2nd century, it later served as a papal residence and a defensive structure. Today, it stands as a historic and imposing landmark, offering panoramic views of the city from its ramparts and housing a museum that displays a rich collection of art, artifacts, and historical memorabilia.

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Ponte Vittorio Emanuele II

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The historic bridge connects the historic center of Rome with the Vatican City, offering picturesque views of St. Peter's Basilica and the surrounding cityscape.

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Ponte Cestio

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Ponte Cestio, also known as the Cestius Bridge, is a picturesque ancient Roman bridge in Rome that crosses the Tiber River. It was constructed in the 1st century BC and is known for its distinctive semicircular shape and original stone structure. This well-preserved bridge connects the Tiber Island with the Trastevere district and serves as a charming and historically significant part of Rome's architectural heritage.

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Basilica di San Bartolomeo all'Isola

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Eateries

Antico Carbone - best GF pasta!

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VII Coorte

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Il Grottino a Testaccio

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Pantha Rei - Gluten Free Options!

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Osteria Chiana

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Bernini

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Caffè 67

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Barnum Roma

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Tonnarello

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Pane e Salame

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 WHERE TO STAY

HOTELS🛎️

⭐️ luxury ⭐️

Located in the heart of the Old City of Rome, Hotel Eden is just a short stroll from the legendary Spanish Steps and picturesque Villa Borghese. This elegant city oasis dates back to 1889. Famed for its exquisite Michelin-starred rooftop restaurant where diners enjoy spectacular panoramic views across the Eternal City.

⭐️ mid-range ⭐️

Hotel Relais le Clarisse

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⭐️ budget ⭐️

🗝HOME STAYS🗝

Stay in the best homes in Rome, Metropolitan City of Rome Capital, Lazio, Italy | Plum Guide

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Explore all of the gorgeous homes on Plum Guide with the link above!

My favorite picks in Rome are listed below...

Sylvia & Marcello, Colonna, City of Rome

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This home, situated on a pedestrian street full of restaurants and shops, is just a three-minute stroll from the beautiful Trevi Fountain, while the Spanish Steps are a five-minute walk. Back at this apartment (which sleeps 8), designed by a Roman architect and housed in a historical building, there's a wonderful blend of old and new – think character beams, parquet wood floors and modern chandeliers.

The Rooster and the Dog, Trastevere, Rome

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Just a stone’s throw from the Tiber River in Rome’s Trastevere neighborhood, this bright apartment was made for socializing and relaxing. While the interior is full of quirky ornaments, comfortable furnishings and textured throws, it’s the home’s outside that really sets it apart. With three different rooftop terrace areas, you can chill out in the hanging chairs while taking in views across the city, catch some rays on the loungers and gather together for sunset alfresco meals while the Eternal City stretches out behind you.