Rome: Off The Beaten Path

1. Monument to Victor Emmanuel II, or Altar Of The Fatherland- tickets here are free on the first Sunday of the month and there is an amazing panoramic view of many of the most popular sights at the top. There is also a museum you can walk through to learn more about the Risorgimento, which was the Unification of Italy. There are a ton of stairs though, as is consistent with most of Europe, so please call in advance to see if it is accessible. I know they do have an elevator up to the top viewpoint!

2. Lover’s Fountain next to the Trevi Fountain- this hidden fountain is a great opportunity to not only refill your water bottle, but to be with your lover forever! Legend has it that if you and your beau drink from the fountain at the same time, you will be together forever! There are hardly any people here and you can rest for a moment to enjoy the magnificence of the Trevi.

3. Villa Borghese- want to escape the hustle and bustle of Rome? Visit these lush gardens for a relaxing stroll and if you’re feeling up to it, a romantic row boat ride at the Temple of Asclepius. It’s affordable, costing €3 for adults and €1.50 for young children for 20 minutes. The picturesque lake has a 19th-century temple and is home to about 100 turtles, 60 ducks and dozens of other water birds including swans and geese.

4. Sunset Views: some gorgeous sunset spots with picturesque city views include Terrazza del Pincio, Giardino degli Aranci and Terraza del Gianicolo. Each of these offers beautiful views guaranteed to take your breath away!

5. A Post Card From The World’s Smallest Country: Standing in St. Peter’s Square in the Vatican is a pinch-me moment, but you can make it even better by sending a unique souvenir through the postal service. If you are looking at the Basilica, go to the right side of the Square. You will see two yellow post office boxes and a few stores- purchase your post card and visit the post office next to the boxes to get stamps!

6. Thermal Spas at QC Termeroma- looking to deeply relax and comfort your sore soles? Visit the Thermal Spas where you can get different massages, facials, or body treatments. Not interested? Enjoy the Wellness Pathway, complete with a vineyard, garden, music pool, and more!

7. Live Up Your Lizzy McGuire Dreams - there are ample opportunities for a vespa tour or even a fiat photoshoot! This could be a fun way to see the city in a more authentic way. If that is not your style, try a nighttime walking tour or ebike ride!

8. Catacombs - Did you know that Rome is home to catacombs, similar to the ones in Paris? The final resting place of saints, martyrs, farmers and other devoted Christians, the cool air below accompanies curious thoughts as you walk the rows of bones.

Lunch

• All’antico Vinaio - This spot near the Pantheon is famous for their sandwiches! Check out their Instagram!

• Trattoria Vecchia Roma - This not touristy restaurant has great food and is just outside Vatican walls.

• Forno Campo Dei Fiori - Great spot for personal pizzas - be prepared to cut, as Italy serves them whole. (On Sundays, there is a big flea market here too!)

• Trapizzino - Try foods unique to Rome: A trapizzino and suppli! This restaurant is right in Trastevere and next to Piazza Trilussa where there is live music at night! Look up the Piazza on TikTok to see videos.

Dinner

• Osteria da Fortunata - May be a long wait unless you go late around 9pm (we visited the location next to Piazza Navona) BUT SOO GOOD! Check out their Instagram!

• Enzos - Delicious and highly recommended pasta spot - the amatriciana and their burrata are amazing!

• Roscioli Salimeroa Con Cucina - You need a reservation in advance, but this place comes recommended by Michelin and all the foodies in Rome!

Bars/Desserts

• Mr. 100 Tiramisu - Home to literally 100 different versions of tiramisu, this dessert spot is open late and delicious! Take yourself on a tiramisu tour by also visiting Two Sizes Tiramisu!

• This small bar, Taberna - Offers 5€ drinks near the Trevi! Perfect for an on the go sip.

• Divinity Restaurant & Lounge - Not only a bar, but you can get aperitifs and dinner with AMAZING views.

• Terrazza Les Etoiles - This rooftop bar is open till 1am and as a bonus, you can see St. Peter’s Basilica!