Stadium of Domitian

Fascinating places in Rome - a little bit of this, a little bit of that, mixing classics with some unpopular, hidden gems! Where to eat/drink (including a bunch of beautiful rooftops), where to shop (outlets, bespoke & made in Italy - brands you rarely find outside this country) and what to visit around (gorgeous sights included, so be sure to check them out and take lots of pictures). Highlights: 🛵 Vespa - is an Italian luxury brand of scooters and mopeds manufactured by Piaggio. The name means wasp in Italian. An Italian icon since 1946. You’ll see many of these all over the city. 🍕 Roman style Pizza - we encounter "pizza al taglio," which means "by the cut". The scizzas, which are a type of scissors, are used to cut this pizza into square-shaped slices. This helps to maintain the structure of both the toppings and the crust. There is also “pizza bassa”, with a thin base. Roman pizza is practically the opposite to Neapolitan pizza: it is crispy and they are not afraid of toppings. A classic on all menus in Rome is the Capricciosa: topped with ham, mushrooms, olives, artichoke, an egg and tomato. Oil is added to the dough and there is much less water than the Naples version. 🥯 The maritozzo - is a classic sweet pastry, traditionally packed full of whipped cream, which has satisfied Romans for centuries. The dough-based bun is typically eaten in Rome for breakfast but can also be eaten as a hefty snack, or dessert, throughout the day. ☕️ Ristretto - is Italian for "short shots", and that's exactly what this shot of espresso brings to the table. Its main difference is that it takes a shorter extraction time, and uses less water therefore the flavor is rich and bold, and very intense. 🍧 La Grattachecca Romana - a favourite icy drink with fruity flavor; for the Romans, the grattachecca is sacred - strictly prepared by hand in the historical kiosks of the Rioni Trastevere, Testaccio and Prati, in the lively Ponte Milvio area and Trieste and Trionfale districts. Grattachecca derives, in fact, from the action with which the “ghiacciata" (ice) is produced: with a special tool, the ice is scraped off a block, called the "checca" in Roman dialect. 🛍️ When it comes to shopping, Rome can be quite the haven for designer brands, but there is no other fashion house more Roman than Valentino Garavani. The brand’s design (its famous studs) has its origins in the Renaissance architecture of Rome - the “bugnato” technique of the ancient Roman buildings. The largest Valentino store (in the world) lies here, in Rome, on the famous Piazza di Spagna site.

Rome, the eternal city, captivates visitors with its timeless allure and monumental history. Steeped in over 2,000 years of civilization, every corner tells a story of ancient empires, Renaissance art, and modern vitality. A visit to the Colosseum, the grand amphitheater that once hosted gladiatorial contests, offers a glimpse into the grandeur of ancient Rome, while the Roman Forum nearby serves as an open-air museum of political and social life in antiquity. Beyond the ruins, Vatican City beckons with the awe-inspiring St. Peter's Basilica and the Vatican Museums, home to Michelangelo's masterpiece, the Sistine Chapel ceiling. Wandering through Rome's cobblestone streets, visitors encounter an endless array of architectural marvels, from the majestic Pantheon to the elegant Spanish Steps. Each piazza invites leisurely strolls and indulgent dining experiences, where traditional trattorias serve up delectable Roman cuisine alongside world-class wines. Embrace the city's dolce vita spirit with a leisurely passeggiata along the Tiber River or a sunset vista from the romantic Gianicolo Hill. With its blend of ancient grandeur and modern charm, Rome promises an unforgettable journey through the heart of Italy's cultural legacy. This guide includes: - introductory note - places to visit (museums and cultural venues, open squares, and others) - photo spots Get to see more from my travels on my Instagram (@pedralexpereira) and Flickr (flickr.com/photos/pedralexpereira)

When in Rome... you gotta make the most of it. Whether you're an avid foodie, a wine connoisseur or wanting the best pics for Instagram, this is the guide for you. This guide will make a plan for your morning, afternoon and evening with options to suit all lifestyles!