ROME GUIDE
"The Creator made Italy from designs by Michaelangelo." - Mark Twain
WHERE TO STAY:
Since this is only my first time in Rome, I could only speak from our experience but we decided to stay in Trastevere. A whimsical, ivy-draped neighborhood that is located just a quick hop over the river away from the tourist chaos of Rome’s city centre. The area reminded me very much of the Lower East Side of New York, a little grungy yet hip and filled with wide variety of bars and TONS of great restaurants creating an electric atmosphere. Highly would recommend this area for your first trip in Rome.
WHAT TO DO AND SEE:
Before coming here, I didn't have high expectations as I only heard bad things about Rome but if you pick one or two touristy things to do and spend the rest of your trip wandering around this charming city, you'll be pleasantly surprised. Rome is the city of contrasts, where the old meets the new, the order meets the chaos. It is considered to be the eternal city, as in spite of its age. The oldest evidence of the Roman civilization, continuing with the splendor of Renaissance style. Fun fact: the whole center of Rome is included in the UNESCO World Heritage List. Since we only had 3 and a half days in Rome, we didn't want to spend all of our time waiting in lines. We decided to do the tour of Vatican City as our only touristy activity, book all your tickets in advanced since its cheaper online. The tour was really informative and had so much history but it was a little too crowded for my preference. One thing I would recommend checking out is this massive and beautiful park called Villa Doria, there you'll find mostly locals spending their afternoon walking, running, biking, playing soccer.
WHERE TO EAT AND DRINK:
You’ll hear it over again and again: There is no such thing as Italian food. Cuisine across Italy is so regional, in fact, that you’ll see entirely different plates from one city to the next — a variety that makes traveling and dining even more of a pleasure in this country. Roma? Two words: Cacio E Pepe. Below are some highlights of our favorite spots.
Roma Sparita: Go here and order yourself a Cacio E Pepe and if thats not enough, ask the waiters for recommendations. At this place, they won't let you order the wrong dish.
Osteria dal 1931: Wonderful mom and pop restaurant. Can't really go wrong with any of the dishes here. Again, ask them what they would recommend.
Fatamorgana Gelato: Best gelato from our trip and just right around the corner from our Airbnb. Pistachio and chocolate for the win!
Dar Poeta: While Pizza is famous in Naples, this place was really satisfying still.
Secondo Tradizione: The simple and modern food offerings mix Roman dishes and Italian flavors, as well as cheese and cured meat plates drawing. Simple Roman Food.
Other restaurants and bars to check out: Antica Trattoria da Carlone, Ma Che Siete Venuti a Fa’, Pianostada, Felice a Testaccio, Armando al Pantheon, Litro.
