Rome pocket guide.
Rome’s influence cannot be understated; playing a major role in developing the civilised world as we know it today. Even now, when strolling the cobbled streets of this beautiful city, each step seems steeped in history, providing a palpable connection to the past.
As the heartland of the Roman Empire, Rome has captivated the imagination of just about everyone that has an interest in history and culture. Crumbling remains of the Roman Forum stand firmly in the centre of this sprawling metropolitan city, and serve as a powerful memory of the grandeur of its empirical era.
Whilst rich history lingers on, Rome has transitioned into the modern age with grace and finesse. Providing some of the best nightlife in Europe, it has surpassed many of its peers to become a hub for trend-setters and creative thinkers.
🏛 Sights, Culture + Experiences.
Any Roman getaway is centred around some of most iconic and instantly recognisable sights on Earth. The centre of the city is abundant with excellent sightseeing opportunities for those who are enthusiastic about history and Italian culture.
For those who are looking to casually stroll the hallowed streets of the city, you will absorb the local culture and history through simply wandering the picturesque and lively neighbourhoods that comprise the centre.
Undoubtedly the defining symbol of Rome, the imposing presence of the legendary Colosseum (📷) still attracts a huge crowd to this day. Replete with tales of infamous gladiator battles that took place within its walls, the Colosseum retains the fascination of all who visit here – even without the debauchery and morbid entertainment on display.
The expansive ruins of the Roman Forum (📷) are just as important and reflective of the rich history that the city harbours. Containing fragments of temples and structures — some dating back almost 3,000 years — the Forum was once the pulsating heart of the city and had gained a reputation as the heart of the Empire. Today, visitors are free to stroll the preserved artefacts of this spectacular site, in which you can follow in the footsteps once tread by Roman nobility.
Inside the parameters of the city, there is a varied selection of intriguing sites to fill your sight-seeing schedules. Consider peeking into the macabre by explore one of the subterranean crypts that can be found in the city. These catacombs house ancient tombs adorned with religious murals, which provide a sinister vibe as you trawl through the tunnels beneath the cobblestone streets.
🍝 Put your diet on hold.
When in Rome, shed any self-imposed restrictions on binge-eating for the weekend in order to experience some of the best food and treats anywhere in the world. From heavenly pasta dishes and fresh-baked authentic Italian pizzas to exquisitely crafted ice cream – or "gelato" – you should incorporate sampling an array of dishes into your budget.
Rome is a haven for delicious and affordable food. For those who are sticking to a budget, make sure to pay a visit to one of the many panini establishments that have a long history of serving up fresh sandwiches to satisfy hungry tourists.
Located a mere 2 minute walk from the Trevi Fountain, it would be easy to pass Pane e Salame – blink and you may miss it. If you are looking to sample some Roman-style pizza on a budget without skimping on the quality, Pinsere has a verified track-record of serving up delicious pizza at an agreeable price.
Enduring brewery-restaurant of Antica Birreria Peroni is always bustling, with clientele drawn in by the quirky presentation of its dishes and the promise of a refreshing glass of locally brewed Peroni.
Serving up delightful authentic dishes just steps from the tourist hive of the Pantheon, the inviting decor of Armando al Pantheon provides a refuge in the heart of the tourist district. Once seated in this charming restaurant, expect hearty servings of aromatic pasta and meats.
Another establishment that provides excellent value for money is That's Amore, which has become a favourite amongst tourists to the city. Whether you are looking for some delicious pasta, pizza, risotto, or tantalising desserts, book a reservation for this great restaurant to avoid missing out.
On the topic of enticing sweet treats, an absolute must of any Roman holiday is to sample some of the world-renowned gelato that is produced here. Across the city, delightful family-run ice cream parlours flaunt their craft in a way that most certainly catches the eye. Hundreds of flavours from coffee to peach can be found in Rome, and it is well worth sampling a fair few of them.
One of the best places to scoop up some gelato in Rome is Gelateria Giolitti (📷). Reportedly the oldest ice-cream parlour in Rome, this well-known gelateria has been passed down the generations of the same family that opened its doors all those years ago.
🍸 Bars + Nightlife.
In recent years, the Italian capital has emerged as a promising destinations for those looking for a great after-hours scene. From bespoke speak-easy bars tucked away beneath the streets, to lavish and expansive outdoor venues during the summer.
Appreciation for the art of intuitive and original cocktail creations is found at BlackMarket — a trendy cocktail bar with tasteful ramshackle interior and a relaxed vibe.
A similar hangout, retro-basement Argot is decked out with vintage 1920s furniture, providing a unique spot to kick-back with a delicious cocktail. Follow directions to an unmarked doorway, where you will ring a bell. Once the doorman answers, you will be escorted down to the bar.
As the warmth of the Mediterranean climate returns during the summer months, Rome basks in the heat of the region, whilst its inland location shelters it from the coastal winds. The climate provides an ideal setting for the growing assortment of bars and clubs that offer al-fresco drinking throughout the summertime – day or night.
A young generation of Romans have adapted extremely well to changing trends, and there are countless opportunities to spend time in trendy spots frequented by the hip locals. Teeming with enchanting mood-lighting, the vibrant Magick Bar (📷) welcomes visitors to its wonderful atmospheric beer garden, providing nice views on to the River Tiber.
Amongst the most talked about hotspots to relax on balmy summer evenings is the Monk Club. The expansive garden serves as a welcoming place to hang-out, decked out with sun loungers, kick back and revel in the opportunity to meet some like-minded people.
💤 Accommodation.
There are tonnes of options for affordable accommodation in Rome. Consider using Skyscanner, Hostelworld or Airbnb to compare all available options for your price range and travel style. If you are looking for private accommodation, excellent home-grown B&Bs can be found across the city, giving the opportunity to bond with the friendly locals.
Good quality hostels are also in abundance for those who wish to have a more social experience when they retire from a jam-packed day of sight-seeing and sampling the Italian cuisine.
By far the most popular hostel in Rome listed on Hostelworld. With over 15,000 reviews, a stay at this hostel will surely be a lively one.
💰 Dorms from €12.00 per night.
Generator Rome.
The same modern vibe that is offered across this brand of hostels, the Rome branch of Generator Hostels provides affordable and quality rooms.
💰 Dorms from €24.00 per night.
Excellent location, reasonable pricing, and an absolutely stunning rooftop garden.
💰 Rooms from €80.00 per night
Breath-taking rooftop complete with hot tub and seating area. Great facilities and rooms all for a very agreeable price.
💰 Rooms from €165.00 per night
Rounding off.
Rome is amongst the most immersive city break destinations in the world. The vibrant streets that wind through this historic city are brimming with joy and culture. The modern day Romans are incredible hosts, and will welcome you to their city with open arms and bowl-fulls of heaven.
Whether you are wandering the worn paths of the Roman Forum, or dancing the night away in whatever hidden gem you manage to find tucked away in the city, you will fall in love with Rome if you open yourself up to the treasures that permeate every corner of this great city.
Make sure that you toss a coin into the Trevi Fountain before you leave Rome – superstition and folk-tales it may be – but you will want to leave no uncertainty that you will return here again some day.
