When in Rome

“Rome is not like any other city. It’s a big museum, a living room that shall be crossed on one’s toes.” – Alberto Sordi.

Piazza Navona

Rome is one of those cities that everyone needs to visit at least once in their life. Also called The Eternal City (LaCittà Eterna), the capital of Italy has gathered so much history and culture that no one can remain indifferent to the splendor that surrounds you at every corner.

In this post I will tell you about my recent trip to Rome and I will recommend you some of the best places to eat.

If you are wondering how long do you need to see the City on Seven Hills, I believe that four days are enough - three days to see the main attractions and one day to walk through the narrow streets or to see again something that has fascinated you, and also to have one last meal (if you haven't had enough the past three days). Take at least half a day for the Vatican City - it's bigger than you think, and everything in it takes your breath away.

The frescoes on the side walls of the the Sistine Chapel will leave you speechless (note that it is not allowed to take photos even without flash) and especially The Creation of Adam, which we all have seen somehwere on the Internet. Do not miss to see Piazza San Pietro, which is a large square located directly in front of St. Peter's Basilica in the Vatican City.

When someone mentions Rome, one of the first things that comes in mind is the Colosseum. This is what impressed me the most along with the Roman Forum. Walking past these magnificent buildings, you feel so small and insignificant. You take plenty of photos without even realizing how many important historical events have happened where your feet have stepped at that moment.

Colosseum

There are so many squares in Rome that even if none of them is on your list, you will surely come across at least a few while walking around the city aimlessly. Still, though, Fontana di Trevi and Piazza Navona should not be missed. The first one I recommend you to visit late at night when there are less people. You will have a greater chance of taking pictures because it is almost impossible during the day. Don't forget to throw a coin and make a wish. Other places I suggest you see are the Pantheon and Castel Sant'Angelo. The first one is completely free of charge, and the view from the castle is fabulous. If you have time, go to the Mouth of Truth (La Bocca della Verità). According to the legend, the man is said to bite the hand of anyone who lied.

If you have to buy tickets for certain attractions, do it online. You will save a lot of time, as the queues are endless everywhere. I don't recommend you to use public transport unless it is very necessary - almost all the main sights are not within such a big walking distance. Even though you might get tired, you will come across so many beautiful nooks while looking for something in particular. If you accidentally come across street musicians playing on metal buckets, stop for a while to listen to them. Their name is Ambo i lati (Both sides) and they are incredibly talented.

Don't worry if you don't speak Italian, almost everyone in Rome speaks English as well as Spanish. But if you have some spare time, get out of your comfort zone and learn a few Italian words. The Italian language is so beautiful and melodic that even the simplest words sound like a song.

"Fate l'amore, non fate la dieta!"

Prosciutteria Trastevere - Cantina dei Papi

Waking up in Rome and tasting authentic Italian food - that's what I call indescribable happiness. With my hand on my heart I can say that I had never tasted more delicious meals in my life. Everything is so simple, but prepared with so much love and served with pleasure. The Italians know not only to live, but also to enjoy life. Their food is a real piece of art and a delight for the eyes - freshly baked bread, prosciutto, abundantly grated mozzarella, light sauces, a glass of red wine...the mixture of tastes makes you want more and more. Not to mention the thousands variations of gelato, which I didn't even think they existed. Here are some of the places that I personally visited and recommend to everyone who is going to have a vacation in Rome:

*Proscuitteria Trastevere - Cantina de Papi

Order a gourmet platter like the one on the picture and exchange a couple of words with the staff - they are super nice. You can also buy jars with homemade sauces for your pasta.

*Cajo§Gajo

Whatever you decide to order in this cozy place you will not regret it. Don't miss to try their focaccia.

*Il Duca in Trastevere

An authentic restaurant with amazing food. A simple dish of mozzarella and prosciutto looks like a masterpiece. And the pasta is just magical!

*Antico Forno Roscioli

In this small bakery you will find various types of pastry. Something typical to try is maritozzo con la panna.

*Giolitti

The oldest Gelateria in Rome (1900) will amaze you with the enormous variety of gelato. The queue is huge but it's worth it, trust me. Make sure you get a ticket first and then get in line for the gelato.

Although I love pizza, it is not the thing I ate the most in Rome. I tried a delicious Margarita in a very nice restaurant, whose name unfortunately I don't remember. After a few days of non stop eating in Rome you will surely feel guilty. Don't! Overeating with Italian food is one of the things you should not regret.

I strongly believe that every place you visit teaches you something - about the city itself, about the people in it, or simply about yourself. And you inevitably return to your daily life a little bit changed. Rome taught me to appreciate the little things that surround me - a beautiful sunset, a melodious word or a lovely meal.

If you still haven't been to Rome, what are you waiting for?