Rome, Italy
If you are in love with the Italian culture like I am, then Rome is definitely a place you should add to your bucket list. I will never forget the first time I arrived in Rome. I got to stay for a month and immediately fell in love. The food, the buildings, the people, the wine, the art and just overall the wonderful vibe is everything I live for.
I highly recommend staying in the center of Rome as that’s where most of the shopping is and points of interest. The following places are where I have visited and can give you insight into it. I hope you enjoy this magical city just as much as I did.
My favorite spots:
1) Piazza Venezia aka "The Wedding Cake" - it truly is a magical sight. On the right-hand side of it, you'll see stairs; hike up those stairs and enter into the church, Santi Dodici Apostoli, that is within. It's a hidden church with the most beautiful ceilings. You can also take an elevator to the very top of the Piazza. It may cost you but not much; probably between 5-20 euros at most. From the top, you will see the most stunning view of Rome. Truly rewarding.
2) Colosseum. This is a given. The history blows my mind every time. I make sure to stop by this monument every time I am in Rome. You can take a tour (which I suggest) or just simply stand on the outside and gaze in astonishment. Click here for tours.
3) Vatican City. Now, I'm sure you all have heard of this magical place. It's seriously breathtaking. To be underneath the Sistine Chapel & gazing at the artwork of Michelangelo is one of the most memorable moments of my life.
4) Campo de Fiori. It’s considered a fresh food market but also has a lot of restaurants and bars that surround it. It’s such a fun vibe to walk around, stop and get a drink, or at night, mingle with the locals and have a good time. I like being here on summer nights. It’s so lively and fun!
5) Villa Borghese. This is hands down my favorite park in Rome. It is a landscape garden and you can spend hours just getting lost in all its beauty. You’ll find people relaxing, people running or people sipping coffee at little coffee shops they have inside it. Depending on the time of year you go, you’ll really enjoy just soaking in all the beautiful sights. There is a villa located inside this park called The Villa Borghese Pinciana. It was built by architect Flaminio Ponzio. I’ve been during summer, fall & winter. All wonderful experiences.
Sightseeing/Activities:
Spanish Steps
Fontana di Trevi
Foro Romano
Pantheon
Basilica di Santa Maria
Trastevere (Neighborhood)
Castel Sant’Angelo
Piazza Navona
Piazza del Popolo
Baths of Caracalla
Janiculum (beautiful terrace to go for views of city)
Fountain of Neptune
Food:
Sorbillo
Susina
Osteria Chiana (Great pasta)
Pompi (for the tiramisu)
Numbs
Ginger (Healthy but good food)
Taverna (Nice Attire/Setting)
Zi Umberto (Not as fancy but FANTASTIC)
For Gelato: Try to avoid eating gelato or any food near tourist attractions.
Grom
Giolitti
Lindt