Experience Rome in a slower pace - Slow Travel

Best time to visit Rome and avoid the crowds? April-May and September-October. The weather is still enjoyable for a city vacation and you escape the summer heat. 

Discover parks in Rome

I love to discover parks and take a few hours to read a book, enjoy the sun and peoplewatching. I have listed my best spots down below. Giardino degli Aranci is by far my favorite - but do not miss the sunset from Villa Borghese! 

Giardino degli Aranci

@irenehagman

Beautiful view over Trastevere and Rome. Sit down, enjoy the view and the scent of the orange trees. I usually bring a book and stay for a few hours. The main view is of St. Peter’s Basilica, and the park also offers an optical illusion. Walk back and forth through the park and you will see the Basilica look closer the further away as you go.

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Janiculum Hill

@irenehagman

Tips: Grab breakfast down in Trastevere and bring for a picnic at this stunning view over Rome. Go early to avoid a crowd.

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Villa Doria Pamphili

@irenehagman

Beautiful garden to stroll around in. Bring a book and a picnic and you have a calm afternoon filled.

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Piazza Cavour

@irenehagman

Enjoy dogs? This is the park for you. Perfect to catch a breath after sightseeing or shopping, this park offers a great spot to watch dogs!

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Villa Borghese

@irenehagman

Absolutely gorgeous park to stroll around in. Stay until sunset and watch it at Busto di Gaetano Filangeri.

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Aperitivo and Dinner

It is not hard to find good food in Italy, and Rome is no exception. I like to go off the busy streets and find smaller restaurants to enjoy my food in a calmer environment. Here are my current favorites in Rome:  

Baguetteria del Fico

@irenehagman

Pop off the busy Piazza Navona and discover this gem. Warm, intimate wine bar serving sandwiches, plus cheese, charcuterie & bruschetta boards.

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La bottega del caffè

@irenehagman

Feels like coming home to a friend. No fuzz, just simple food, great wine and a lovely atmosphere.

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È Passata la Moretta

@irenehagman

Great atmosphere, good food for a great prize. Always visit this restaurant when I’m in town.

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Enoteca il Piccolo dal 1980

@irenehagman

A little winebar with very helpful staff.

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Hidden Gems

And last, here are my bonus-tips for Rome! :)

Intrastevere

@irenehagman

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Portico of Octavia

@irenehagman

Not feeling up for a crowd at the Colosseum? Try Portico of Octavia instead. Smaller, but free entrance and unbelievable architecture.

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