See Ancient Rome While Eating and Drinking Like a Local

The Vatican

Whether you’re Catholic or not, the Vatican has so much to offer for anyone. Sprawling art work and history line the walls and halls offering up stories from centuries ago. Depending on where you’re staying during your time in Rome, this should be a quick taxi ride. Be sure to snag your tickets ahead of time.

The Colosseum

The guides will exclaim “walk where the gladiators did,” but a good Colosseum tour is so much more than what’s within the walls. Viator has options to bundle the Colosseum and Palatine Hill, with the Roman Forum. The grounds of Ancient Rome, preserved beyond my imagination, were incredible to see. Offering up great views of Rome and the Colosseum, Palatine Hill was a focal point for rulers to see their reign.

Trevi Fountain

Iconic as it is, it’s also one of the most crowded places in Rome. Keep this in mind to prepare yourself when you visit Trevi. The sheer size of the sculptures will leave you staring in awe. If Trevi is on your list (and it should be) be sure the see it at night and during daylight. Grab a gelato on your way, worth it!

Spanish Steps

Great for people watching, and pics for the gram. The Spanish Steps, in Italy, are an 18th century relic at the bequest of a French diplomat. Interesting. Very popular and crowded area, but a must see for sure.

The Pantheon

A nod to the second century, this temple holds a lot of Renaissance history (and tombs). If seeing the Pantheon is on your list, BOOK EARLY. This popular site is a venue for local events and is often closed for concerts, galas, or private events.

Hop on a scooter!

Italy is known for the Vespa, but it’s 2024 and we have access to a scooter in the palm of our hand. Download the Bird or Uber apps and hop on a scooter to see the sites. Not comfortable on your feet flying through the streets (in a bike line, of course)? Lime offers bicycles as well. Be safe but get immersive.

Shop!

Two words: Italian leather. There are so many shops with quality items from wallets to purses, boots to bookmarks. Peek into local shops and peruse.

If you’re new to European travel, I recommend finding something you can collect on each journey. It can be something conventional from post cards to magnets, or something really fun like an ingredient of local cuisine from a market.

Day Trips:

Florence is a three-hour drive from Rome, and while it could be a multi-day trip you can absolutely hit the highlights in a day.

Regardless of where you choose to eat and drink, my recommendation is to always opt for the outdoor seating. You can be boisterous, you can people watch, and you can bask in the fact you’re sitting outside an Italian cafe or restaurant.

Nannarella

A traditional restaurant located in the lively neighborhood of Trastavere, wear your stretchy pants for this one. If you aren’t able to arrange reservations, that is ok. Be sure to arrive and get your name in early. There are cute shops in the area to peruse during the wait which makes it go quickly. The carbonara is their most famous dish, but you really cannot go wrong with anything you order. Don’t forget the wine!

Ristorante Massenzio Ai Fori

If you’re in the area of the Colosseum for lunch or dinner, make a point to stop here. The service is incredible, you can sense that everyone really enjoys being here. The food is as traditional as it gets. But even still, it’s the limoncello that will make this a memorable stop. This location also takes reservations and has outdoor seating.

Ciardi Bar Ristorante

Also, by the Colosseum, this cute cafe offers small bites for breakfast or a snack with a full bar and amazing coffee.

That’s Amore

Located closer to Trevi, get ready for flavor explosion. From the appetizers to the mains (mmm, lasagna!) be sure to explore the menu.

Aside from specific restaurant recommendations, your trip will not be complete unless you have authentic gelato. Look for the kind in metal tubs with a lid. The higher the gelato is piled or appears fluffy, the better it is to keep moving.

Some of my favorite establishments were found by just walking in for a glass of wine. Wine not your thing? Stop in for a prosciutto or appetizer.