Making the Most of Your Time in Rome: The Must-Do's

Must-dos:

1. Vatican Museum Tour: Even if you aren't typically an art museum person, this is a can't miss experience. A tour guide can offer context on the beautiful art pieces that fill the large museum, including the infamous Sistine Chapel.

2. Colloseum Tour: Along with the Vatican Museum Tour, this is the other must-do in Rome — yes, it's touristy, but it is no tourist trap. It is an incredible architectural feat and served as a cultural hub for much of Ancient Rome's history. Tip: Watch Gladiator prior to visiting if you want to go in with a fresh visual of what the Colosseum may have looked like in its prime. Russel Crowe is a bonus.

Experiences:

1. Aperitivo...anywhere that has it: This isn't an experience exclusive to Rome, but pop into any restaurant during their aperitivo time frame and enjoy some tasty free snacks alongside your happy drinks. It is an Italian cultural experience that cannot be missed.

2. Wine tasting at Rimessa Roscioli: Do a wine tasting at Rimessa Roscioli Rome, and sample some Roman bites paired with a variety of Italian wines. The wine connoisseur can talk you through the flavor pairings.

3. Street food tour: My husband and I booked a street food tour with a local who led us through the city, stopping at locally owned shops to try a variety of Roman Street Foods. Not only were the spots delicious, but we were able to enjoy the company of others traveling in Rome and ended up grabbing drinks with one of the couples afterward. This was a great first night activity, as it gave us a good lay of the land and helped us understand the different neighborhoods and what to expect from each.

4. Sunset at Janiculum Hill: The view at the top of this hill is worth the climb. Visit towards the end of your stay so you can look out over Rome and view the places you have visited. Not only is there a beautiful view, but the top is a party spot and there are food trucks that serve snacks and wine — or feel free to bring your own.

Other sights:

1. Pantheon: A stunning former Roman temple with an interesting history and impressive architectural dome.

2. Spanish Steps: One of the most photographed places in Rome, and for good reason — an absolutely beautiful staircase that leads to Villa Borghese at the top and spills into the Monti shopping district at the bottom.

3. Trevi Fountain: A Roman icon, made with the same material as the Colosseum. A must-see, but go very early if you want a photo without many people in the background.

4. Piazza Navona: Large piazza with live music, restaurants and fountains.

5. Villa Borghese: Hilltop park with walking paths, live music and art.

6. Trastevere: This is an entire neighborhood, but it definitely has more of a local feel than just across the river. Worth visiting for a meal or strolling through in the evening with a gelato.

These are places you would likely already have on your list — or would stumble across regardless — but it's definitely worth it to make sure you check them off your list during your visit.

The four pastas of Rome:

1. Cacio e Pepe: The name translates to cheese and pepper, and that's what is in it. Get it at Armando al Pantheon — a recommendation from the one and only, Stanley Tucci — or Salumeria Roscioli.

2. All'Amatriciana: Pecorino Romano cheese, tomato and guanciale — or pork jowl — which tastes a little like bacon. Get it at Trattoria Lilli or Salumeria Roscioli.

3. Carbonara: Egg, cheese, pepper and guanciale. Get it at L'Antica Birreria Peroni or Hosteria Grappolo d'oro.

4. Gricia: The same as carbonara, but without egg. Get it at Da Enzo al 29 or Armando Al Pantheon.

Stops for a sweet tooth:

1. Two Sizes: Tirimisu lovers should not miss this spot, which offers a delectable version of the classic Italian desert. Bonus points for being affordable and easy to enjoy on the go.

2. Gelateria La Romana: A little off the beaten path of the typical tourist routes, but worth the extra walk. This seems like a local favorite, based on the line and the lack of English translations on the menus, and we understood why. They'll offer to top your gelato with fresh whipped cream as well.

3. Giolitti: Definitely a tourist favorite, but for good reason. They also serve other sweet treats in case you get sick of gelato — it that's possible.

4. Fonte della Salute: This was one of our favorite gelatos of the trip, introduced to us during our Roman street food tour. Their pistachio gelato was amazing, and I hadn't ever heard of this place.