Curator’s statement
Embarking on a journey to Rome with teenagers promises to be an enriching tapestry of experiences, seamlessly weaving together historical enlightenment and youthful exuberance. Amid the awe-inspiring remnants of ancient Rome, from the majestic Colosseum to the evocative Roman Forum, I saw their curious faces ignite as history came alive. Our afternoon pit stops to savor pizza and gelato created space for us to soak in the delightful surroundings. The Eternal City created a captivating blend of education and indulgence, transcending mere travel and evolving into an unforgettable odyssey of shared discovery and timeless memories.
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Things to do in Rome
Explore the Borghese Gallery: Immerse yourself in a world of art and beauty at the Borghese Gallery, home to an impressive collection of masterpieces by renowned artists such as Bernini, Caravaggio and Raphael.
Visit the Colosseum: Step back in time and witness the grandeur of ancient Rome at the iconic Colosseum, an architectural marvel where gladiators once battled amid roaring crowds.
Marvel at the Pantheon: Stand in awe before the Pantheon, a marvel of Roman engineering and one of the best-preserved ancient buildings in the world, with its awe-inspiring dome and fascinating history.
Wander through Vatican City: Discover the treasures of Vatican City, from the awe-inspiring St. Peter's Basilica to the exquisite Vatican Museums, home to priceless artworks including Michelangelo's Sistine Chapel ceiling.
Throw a coin into the Trevi Fountain: Fulfill the timeless tradition of tossing a coin into the Trevi Fountain, ensuring your return to Rome, while marveling at its Baroque splendor and cascading waters.
Explore the Roman Forum: Embark on a journey through ancient Rome's political and cultural center at the Roman Forum, where ruins of temples, basilicas and arches offer glimpses into the city's storied past.
Climb the Spanish Steps: Ascend the iconic Spanish Steps, a beloved gathering place adorned with blooming flowers and elegant architecture, offering panoramic views of Rome's bustling Piazza di Spagna below.
Discover the beauty of Piazza Navona: Lose yourself in the enchanting atmosphere of Piazza Navona, adorned with elegant fountains, Baroque palaces and lively street performers, making it a vibrant hub of Roman life.
Stroll through the Villa Borghese Gardens: Escape the city's hustle and bustle in the tranquil oasis of Villa Borghese Gardens, where lush greenery, picturesque lakes and charming pathways offer a serene retreat for relaxation and recreation.
Indulge in Roman cuisine at Campo de' Fiori: Delight your taste buds with authentic Roman flavors at Campo de' Fiori, a lively square brimming with open-air markets, cozy trattorias and bustling cafes, offering a gastronomic adventure in the heart of Rome.
Day Trips:
Tivoli: Just a short drive from Rome lies the charming town of Tivoli, home to two UNESCO World Heritage sites: Villa d'Este and Hadrian's Villa. Villa d'Este boasts breathtaking Renaissance gardens adorned with fountains, terraces and statues, offering a serene escape from the bustling city. Hadrian's Villa, the grandiose retreat of Emperor Hadrian, showcases stunning ruins of imperial palaces, baths and temples, providing a glimpse into ancient Roman luxury and architecture. Visitors can wander through history-rich landscapes and marvel at the opulence of these ancient estates, making Tivoli an ideal day trip for history enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
Ostia Antica: Just a short train ride away from Rome, Ostia Antica offers a captivating journey back in time to ancient Rome's bustling port city. Once a thriving commercial hub, Ostia Antica now stands as one of the best-preserved ancient Roman sites, boasting well-preserved ruins of apartments, temples, baths and theaters. Visitors can stroll along ancient streets, imagining life in this once-thriving city and admire intricate mosaics and frescoes decorating ancient buildings. With its rich history and impressive archaeological remains, Ostia Antica provides a fascinating day trip for history buffs and curious travelers seeking to uncover Rome's lesser-known treasures.
Castelli Romani: Nestled in the picturesque Alban Hills about 45 minutes from Rome, the Castelli Romani region offers a delightful escape from the hustle of the city. This collection of charming hilltop towns, including Frascati, Castel Gandolfo and Ariccia, is renowned for its scenic beauty, historic villas and delectable cuisine. Visitors can wander through cobblestone streets lined with colorful buildings, visit historic churches and palaces and savor regional specialties like porchetta and Frascati wine in local trattorias. With its tranquil atmosphere and stunning panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and volcanic lakes, Castelli Romani provides a perfect retreat for a relaxing day trip from Rome.
Places to eat & drink in Rome
Roscioli: Taste Italian culinary excellence at Roscioli, where traditional Roman dishes, artisanal cheese, and fine wines converge to create a gastronomic delight.
La Pergola: Elevate your dining experience at La Pergola, Rome's only three-Michelin-starred restaurant, offering exquisite haute cuisine, panoramic views of the city and an extensive wine cellar.
Trattoria da Teo: Savor authentic Roman cuisine in a cozy atmosphere at Trattoria da Teo, where classic dishes like cacio e pepe and amatriciana are prepared with love and served with warmth.
Gelateria del Teatro: Indulge your sweet tooth with artisanal gelato at Gelateria del Teatro, where inventive flavors like ricotta with figs and dark chocolate with orange zest delight the senses.
Armando al Pantheon: Dine in the shadow of the Pantheon at Armando al Pantheon, a historic trattoria serving up traditional Roman fare with a focus on quality ingredients and timeless flavors.
Emma Pizzeria con Cucina: Enjoy Neapolitan-style pizza with a modern twist at Emma Pizzeria con Cucina, where wood-fired pies topped with fresh, seasonal ingredients are the star of the show.
Antico Forno Roscioli: Delight in freshly baked Roman specialties at Antico Forno Roscioli, where crispy pizza bianca, savory supplì and flaky cornetti beckon from the bustling bakery counter.
Da Enzo al 29: Experience the warmth of Roman hospitality at Da Enzo al 29, a charming trattoria serving up hearty Roman dishes made from time-honored family recipes.
Roscioli Caffè Pasticceria: Treat yourself to artisanal pastries and expertly brewed coffee at Roscioli Caffè Pasticceria, a beloved café where tradition meets innovation in every delectable bite.
Mordi e Vai: Sample Rome's street food heritage at Mordi e Vai, a market stall in Testaccio serving up mouthwatering sandwiches filled with hearty Roman classics like trippa alla romana and braised oxtail.
Travel Advisor
Lee Elkins
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For more travel tips, check out Fora Advisor Lizz Callaway's guide, A Roman Holiday: A Guide to a Romantic Getaway in Rome. This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to Rome.