[Post in partnership with Royal Caribbean UK.]
As you probably know, I am Roman. I lived in the Italian capital for most of my life before moving to London and I think it’s one of the most beautiful places in the world.
The best way to visit my city is not just checking all its iconic places and monuments but to try its unique lifestyle. As Romans we love food, company, beauty and a relaxed and indulging way of living.
Here are my tips to enjoy Rome to the most. Follow your travel guide, and follow my list too, for a more immersive and authentic experience.
I’m sure you’ll love it!
Sunset at Giardino degli Aranci
In this amazing little garden you can enjoy a breathtaking view of Rome while soaking the last sun rays of the day. If you bring a drink and some warm pizza bianca, you probably get the best aperitif the city can offer.
Pigneto: hipster Rome
This once not so exciting neighbor in East Rome has become one of the most creative and vibrant areas of the city. The best way to experience it is to go for an aperitif then stay for dinner and maybe dancing. The pedestrian area is where you’ll find most of the bars and restaurants. I recommend Primo, Necci, Santeria and CoHouse.
The bohemian charme of Monti
Monti is a unique area right in front the ‘Fori Romani’. Climb the narrow streets to discover a neighbor with a unique vibe, full of independent little shops. Here you’ll discover many local artists and handcrafters, vintage clothes and furniture shops and small boutiques. Mercato Monti, held every Sunday, is also a cool place to shop.
The midnight cornetto
What do Romans have after a night out, when the dawn is approaching? They stop at one of the 24 hours bars or bakery to have a warm cornetto filled with cream or Nutella. The tradition, which you may find unusual as a foreigner, will soon win your heart. I recommend the ‘secret’ bakery in via Belli. It’s an anonymous white door on the right side of the pizzeria. Their cornetti with Nutella, white chocolate, cream or hazelnut cream will blow your mind.
Ostiense street art
Want to see some cool street art? Ostiense is the right place to go. In this area around the iconic ‘Gazometro’ you’ll find the most coloruful building in town. And, since you’re there, stay for dinner. Many new places have opened up recently, like Porto Fluviale. You’re also a hop and a skip from Eataly, should you want to taste and/or buy some great Italian specialities.
Brunch in the park
To be completely honest with you, in Rome there are better things to see rather than parks. Anyway if it’s a hot spring or summer day you may want to spend it eating outdoors or in a garden. Villa Pamphili is a huge park where a little bistrot has opened up. At Vivi Bistrot you can have your picnic basket made and enjoy it in the park. Another lovely place on a sunny day is Caio Funky Trattoria, but I only recommend you if you are driving around as it’s in North Rome and getting there by bus can be a pain.
Rome is just one of the stops of the amazing itinerary of Ovation of the Seas, the new Royal Caribbean International cruise ship, sailing for the first time this April.
I can’t imagine anything more exciting than relaxing on an amazing luxury ship while visiting the most amazing places in the Mediterranean Sea.
The cruise will stop in Rome in May, and I can only imagine how beautiful Rome will be: sunny, warm, in full bloom, with the sunset light painting everything gold and pink.
You’ll leave a piece of your heart there, that’s for sure ☺
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