Visiting Rome is one of the most iconic experiences in Italy, but it's easy to feel overwhelmed if you don't plan it right. This Rome travel guide breaks down exactly how to plan your trip, where to stay, how to get around, and 36 things to do in Rome, so you can experience the city without feeling rushed, stressed, or stuck in tourist traps.
If you're planning a trip to Rome, be sure to also check out my travel guides to Pompeii and Naples, both make perfect add-ons and show a completely different side of Italy beyond the capital.
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Jump To
- Why Visit Rome, Italy?
- 39 Best Things to Do in Rome, Italy
- Discover Rome's Eternal Charm
- Is Rome Very Expensive?
- Essential Budget Tips for Visiting Rome
- Is Rome, Italy Safe for Tourists?
- How Many Days in Rome is Enough?
- What is the Number One Must-See in Rome?
- Discover the Ultimate Must-See in Rome: The Colosseum
- Rome, Italy - Weather
- Does Rome, Italy Get Snow?
- Rome, Italy Map
- Population of Rome, Italy
- How to Get to Rome, Italy
- Does Rome, Italy Have a Subway System?
- Does Rome, Italy Have Uber?
- Does Rome, Italy Have Casinos?
- Book Popular Activities in Rome
- Best Night Clubs in Rome, Italy
- Beaches Near Rome, Italy
- The Best Hotels in Rome, Italy
- Food in Rome, Italy
- The Best Pasta in Rome, Italy
- The Best Restaurants in Rome, Italy
- Does Rome, Italy Have Starbucks?
Why Visit Rome, Italy?
Visiting Rome is a blast. You get a cool mix of history, culture, and food. They call it the Eternal City. You can check out the Colosseum, the Pantheon, and the Trevi Fountain. These spots show off Rome's ancient vibes. Don't miss the Vatican City. It's tiny but packed with St. Peter's Basilica and the Sistine Chapel.
Millions go there for the art and religious stuff. Walk around Trastevere for cute streets and tasty eats like carbonara and amatriciana. The weather is usually chill, and the views from the hills are stunning. Art lovers, history buffs, and foodies all love Rome. It's a must-see!
Mini Rome Travel Guide Summary
Best Restaurants
- Agrodolce
- Pane e Salame
- Osteria Da Fortunata
Things to do
- Go See the Colosseum
- Explore St. Peter's Basilica
- Discover Castel Sant'Angelo
39 Best Things to Do in Rome, Italy
1. Go See the Colosseum
Check out the Colosseum. It's the ultimate symbol of ancient Rome. Imagine gladiators fighting here. Totally epic.
2. Walk Through the Roman Forum
Stroll through the Roman Forum. This place was the heart of ancient Rome. Temples, basilicas, and ruins everywhere.
3. Visit the Pantheon
Visit the Pantheon. It's super old and dedicated to all the gods. The dome is insane, and the light through the oculus is cool.
4. Toss a Coin at the Trevi Fountain
Make a wish at the Trevi Fountain. Toss a coin in. The sculptures and vibe are unreal. Don't miss it.
5. Marvel at the Vatican Museums
Marvel at the Vatican Museums. So much art and history. Michelangelo and Raphael's works are here. It's a must.
6. Admire the Sistine Chapel
Admire the Sistine Chapel. Michelangelo's ceiling and The Last Judgment are breathtaking. You gotta see it to believe it.
7. Explore St. Peter's Basilica
Explore St. Peter's Basilica. It's one of the biggest churches ever. Climb to the dome for an awesome view.
8. Discover Castel Sant'Angelo
Discover Castel Sant'Angelo. It was a fortress, then a castle, and now a museum. The rooftop views are fantastic.
9. Enjoy Piazza Navona
Enjoy Piazza Navona. Beautiful fountains and baroque buildings. Perfect for a stroll or grabbing a coffee.
10. Visit the Galleria Borghese
Visit the Galleria Borghese. Amazing art collection with works by Bernini, Caravaggio, and Titian. It's a gem.
11. Stroll Through Villa Borghese
Stroll through Villa Borghese. Huge park with sculptures, museums, and even a small zoo. Super chill spot.
12. Explore Trastevere
Explore Trastevere. Cute, narrow streets with great nightlife and restaurants. Lots of character here.
13. Climb the Spanish Steps
Climb the Spanish Steps. Popular spot for tourists and locals. Great views from the top by the Trinità dei Monti church.
14. Visit the Capitoline Museums
Visit the Capitoline Museums. Tons of ancient Roman statues and Renaissance art. Definitely worth it.
15. Discover the Roman Catacombs
Discover the Roman Catacombs. Underground burial sites from early Christian times. Fascinating and a bit eerie.
16. Walk Along the Appian Way
Walk along the Appian Way. One of Rome's oldest roads with historic ruins and monuments. Super historical.
17. Explore the Palatine Hill
Explore the Palatine Hill. Ancient ruins and gardens with stunning views over the Roman Forum. Very scenic.
18. Visit the Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore
Visit the Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore. Major basilica with beautiful mosaics and architecture. So impressive.
19. Admire the Art at the National Roman Museum
Admire the art at the National Roman Museum. Classical art and artifacts spread across the city. A history buff's dream.
20. Discover the Baths of Caracalla
Discover the Baths of Caracalla. Huge ruins of ancient public baths. Imagine how grand they were in ancient times.
21. Visit the Ara Pacis
Visit the Ara Pacis. An altar dedicated to the goddess of peace, Pax. It's a great piece of Roman art and history.
22. Explore the Jewish Ghetto
Explore the Jewish Ghetto. One of Europe's oldest Jewish communities. Lots of history and great kosher food.
23. Visit the Campo de' Fiori Market
Visit the Campo de' Fiori Market. Vibrant market with fresh produce, flowers, and souvenirs. Experience local life.
24. Discover the Capitoline Hill
Discover the Capitoline Hill. One of Rome's seven hills with Michelangelo's Piazza del Campidoglio and key museums.
25. Visit the MAXXI Museum
Visit the MAXXI Museum. Modern art and architecture in a super cool building. Totally different from ancient sites.
26. Check Out the Villa Farnesina
Check out the Villa Farnesina. Renaissance villa with gorgeous frescoes by Raphael and others. It's a visual treat.
27. Explore the Aventine Hill
Explore the Aventine Hill. Peaceful gardens, historic churches, and the famous keyhole view of St. Peter's Basilica.
28. Visit the Basilica of San Clemente
Visit the Basilica of San Clemente. A multi-layered church with a deep history. Fascinating to see all the layers.
29. Walk Through the Piazza del Popolo
Walk through the Piazza del Popolo. Big square with twin churches, an obelisk, and fountains. Really elegant.
30. Discover Castel Gandolfo
Discover Castel Gandolfo. The Pope's summer residence. Cute town with views over Lake Albano.
31. Visit the Museo Nazionale di Castel Sant'Angelo
Visit the Museo Nazionale di Castel Sant'Angelo. Learn about this ancient fortress's history and enjoy its art.
32. Check Out the Piazza Venezia
Check out the Piazza Venezia. Bustling square with the massive Vittoriano monument. Central and busy.
33. Visit the Baths of Diocletian
Visit the Baths of Diocletian. Ancient public baths now part of the National Roman Museum. Huge and impressive.
34. Explore the Quirinal Palace
Explore the Quirinal Palace. President's official residence. Beautiful gardens and fancy rooms.
35. Visit the Church of San Luigi dei Francesi
Visit the Church of San Luigi dei Francesi. See Caravaggio paintings of Saint Matthew. Stunning art.
36. Walk Through the Janiculum Hill
Walk through the Janiculum Hill. Great views of Rome. Visit the Fontana dell'Acqua Paola and Garibaldi monument.
37. Discover the Basilica of San Giovanni in Laterano
Discover the Basilica of San Giovanni in Laterano. Rome's cathedral and the Pope's official church. Grand and historic.
38. Visit the Pyramid of Cestius
Visit the Pyramid of Cestius. Ancient Roman pyramid-shaped tomb. Unique and interesting.
39. Explore the Museo delle Mura
Explore the Museo delle Mura. Learn about Rome's ancient city walls. Housed in Porta San Sebastiano.
Discover Rome's Eternal Charm
Rich History: Rome's an open-air museum. Think Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Pantheon. Walk through time, from ancient ruins to Renaissance art.
Art and Culture: Art treasures everywhere. Michelangelo and Bernini's works are a must-see. Hit the Vatican Museums and Galleria Borghese.
Food: Roman cuisine is legendary. Try carbonara, amatriciana, and supplì. The city's got a killer international dining scene too.
Vatican City: The world's smallest state. Check out St. Peter's Basilica and the Sistine Chapel. The Vatican Museums are unreal.
Weather: Rome's got that Mediterranean climate. Spring and autumn are perfect. Mild weather and fewer crowds.
Vibrant Neighborhoods: Each area has its own vibe. Wander Trastevere's narrow streets. Explore bustling piazzas in the historic center. Check out modern districts like Monti and Testaccio.
Festivals and Events: Rome's alive with festivals. The Rome Film Fest in October. Estate Romana in summer with concerts and outdoor events.
Romantic Ambiance: Scenic walks along the Tiber River. Cozy dinners in charming trattorias. Perfect for couples.
Shopping: Shop along Via del Corso and Via Condotti. From high-end fashion to unique artisan crafts, Rome has it all.
Nightlife: Rome's nightlife is vibrant. Bars, clubs, and live music venues for all tastes. Enjoy memorable evenings.
Is Rome Very Expensive?
Rome is pricey, but you can do it on a budget with some planning. Hostels start at $30 a night, while hotels can hit $300. Food is cheap if you stick to street food and local spots, but fancy places cost way more.
Public transport is cheap too, with metro tickets at $1.65 and weekly passes for $26. Lots of big attractions like the Pantheon and Trevi Fountain are free. Others have small entry fees and discounts on certain days.
Essential Budget Tips for Visiting Rome
Exploring Rome on a budget can be a blast. Here's how to save some bucks while soaking in the city's magic.
Accommodation
Stay in the historic center or Trastevere. It's worth it. You can walk to most spots, saving time and cash on transport. Rome's public transport is hit or miss. Stick to these areas, and you'll be golden.
Food and Drink
Eat like a local. Grab street food like pizza al taglio, panini, or trapizzino. It's cheap and tasty. Hit up local markets for fresh, affordable meals. Carry a water bottle and use the public fountains (nasoni) to refill. Free and convenient.
Sightseeing
Rome is packed with free sights. Churches like St. Peter's Basilica are open for free and filled with art. On the first Sunday of each month, state-owned museums and archaeological sites are free. Show up early to beat the lines.
Transportation
Plan your public transport ahead. Buy bus and metro tickets from tabaccherias (look for the big "T"). Get a 24-hour, 48-hour, or weekly ticket for a discount. Staying central cuts down on the need for transport.
Timing and Planning
Visit popular spots early in the morning or late afternoon to dodge crowds. Book tickets online in advance for places like the Vatican Museums and the Colosseum. This saves time and money, letting you skip the lines.
Is Rome, Italy Safe for Tourists?
Rome is pretty safe for tourists. Violent crime is rare, and the cops are solid. But watch out for pickpockets, especially in crowds and on public transport. Keep your stuff close and be smart about scams with taxis and street vendors. Solo gals might get catcalled, so avoid dark spots at night and stick to licensed taxis or rideshares. Just use common sense, and you'll have a blast in Rome.
How Many Days in Rome is Enough?
How long you stay in Rome depends on your vibe. Three to four days is solid. You'll hit the Colosseum, Vatican, Trevi Fountain, Pantheon, and Spanish Steps. No rush, just chill. Want to take it slower or dig deeper? Go for 5-7 days. You can even day trip to Tivoli, Orvieto, or Pompeii. Got only two days? No sweat. Just prioritize and plan.
How Many Days in Rome is Enough?
- 3 Days in Rome: Three days hit the big spots. You'll see the Colosseum, Vatican City, St. Peter's, and the Roman Forum. Dive into the food and culture.
- 4-5 Days in Rome: Four or five days let you chill and dig deeper. Wander Trastevere, check out the Borghese Gallery, and take it slow.
- 2 Days in Rome: Two days? It's a fast track. Focus on the Colosseum, Vatican, and Trevi Fountain. Get those skip-the-line tickets.
- 1 Day in Rome: One day is a blitz. Hit the Colosseum, Forum, and Pantheon. It's tight but doable if you plan smart and start early.
- 6-7 Days in Rome: Six to seven days? Now you're talking. You'll see it all and take day trips to places like Tivoli and Pompeii. You'll get the full experience.
What is the Number One Must-See in Rome?
You gotta see the Colosseum in Rome. It's a beast of a structure, pure icon. Built around AD 70-80, it hosted wild gladiator fights and massive public events. The size and history of the place will blow your mind. The stone and concrete work shows off ancient Roman engineering at its best. Hit the Colosseum, then check out the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill nearby.
Discover the Ultimate Must-See in Rome: The Colosseum
- Iconic Landmark: The Colosseum is Rome's pride. Millions visit yearly for its stunning look and deep history.
- Historical Significance: It was the heart of Roman fun. Gladiator fights, animal hunts, even naval battles. Ancient Rome flexed here.
- Architectural Marvel: Built between AD 70-80, it's huge. Multiple seating levels, underground tunnels, and a retractable awning. Ingenious design.
- Cultural Experience: Step into ancient Rome. It's a must for history buffs and casual tourists.
- Guided Tours: Go for a tour. Learn the Colosseum's history, architecture, and gladiator tales.
- Photographic Opportunities: Best photo spots. Sunrise and sunset light up the place beautifully.
- Accessibility: Near the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill. Easy to visit and combine with other sites.
- Visitor Tips: Skip long lines with special tickets or a private tour. Go early or late to dodge crowds.
Rome, Italy - Weather
Spring (March to May)
Spring in Rome rocks. Temps are mild, perfect for sightseeing. March hits the 60s, and May gets up to the 70s. Nights can be cool, especially in March, with lows in the 40s. Expect some rain, but it's usually brief.
Summer (June to August)
Summer in Rome is super hot and dry. July and August are the hottest. Daytime temps hit the 80s and 90s. Sometimes it even hits 100 degrees. Nights stay in the 70s. Tourists still flock here, so stay hydrated and find shade.
Fall (September to November)
Fall in Rome is awesome. The weather stays warm but cooler than summer. September is in the low 80s, October drops to the 70s, and November to the 60s. Nights cool down, making it great for evening walks. You might get a little rain, but it's mostly sunny.
Winter (December to February)
Winter in Rome is pretty chill, literally. Daytime temps range from the 50s to 60s. Nights can drop to the 30s and 40s. Snow is rare but expect some cold, rainy days. It's a great time to hit up museums and historical spots without the crowds.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to hit Rome is spring (April to June) and fall (September to October). The weather is sweet, and it's less crowded. Spring is perfect for outdoor adventures and checking out ruins. Fall brings warm vibes, fewer tourists, and beautiful autumn colors. Winter's cool too if you like fewer crowds and don't mind the cold.
Does Rome, Italy Get Snow?
Rome rarely gets snow because of its warm Mediterranean climate and the nearby Tyrrhenian Sea. Snow is a rare treat, happening maybe once every few years. Big snowfalls hit in 2018, 2012, and 1985. These snows mess up the city, causing transport delays and closing schools. But, the snow turns places like the Colosseum and Piazza Navona into magical scenes. If it snows, it's usually in January or February. The snow doesn't stick around long because winters in Rome aren't that cold.
Rome, Italy Map
Population of Rome, Italy
Rome's got about 2.87 million people in the city. The whole metro area? Roughly 4.5 million. It's the biggest city in Italy and one of the top dogs in Europe. Rome's still a major player in culture, business, and politics.
How to Get to Rome, Italy
To get to Rome, Italy, you've got a few easy options depending on where you're coming from:
By Plane
Rome has two airports:
- Fiumicino Airport (FCO): Main one, 35 km from the city. Direct flights from New York, Chicago, Miami, Toronto, Sydney, and many European cities.
- Ciampino Airport (CIA): 15 km from the city. Mostly budget airlines and European flights.
From the airports, you can take a train, bus, or taxi to central Rome. The Leonardo Express train goes from Fiumicino to Termini Station in 30 minutes. Shuttles and taxis are also available.
By Train
High-speed trains like Frecciarossa connect Rome to Milan, Florence, and Naples. Trains from all over Europe too. They arrive at Termini Station, which is connected to metro, bus, and tram lines.
By Car
Driving into Rome is possible via major highways. Traffic and parking are tough in the city center. Park outside and use public transport to get around.
Renting a car in Rome is super convenient and gives you freedom. You can explore the city and countryside at your own speed. Use Discovercars.com for an easy rental experience. They compare lots of rental options, so you get the best deals. It's easy to check reviews and book your car. This makes your Roman trip smooth and fun.
By Bus
Long-distance buses are a cheap option. They connect Rome to many Italian and European cities. Buses usually arrive at Tiburtina Station, linked to the city center by metro and bus.
By Cruise Ship
Cruise ships dock at Civitavecchia, 80 km from Rome. You can take a train or book a shuttle to reach the city.
Getting Around Rome
Rome's public transport includes buses, trams, metro, and urban trains. The metro has three lines. Buses and trams go where the metro doesn't. A single ticket costs €1.50 and is good for 100 minutes on all forms of transport. Taxis and Uber (luxury only) are available but pricey.
Does Rome, Italy Have a Subway System?
Rome has a subway system called the Metro. It has three lines: A (orange), B (blue), and C (green). Lines A and B meet at Termini Station, the main transport hub. Line C mainly goes to the suburbs and isn't great for tourists.
The Metro has 73 stations and covers 60 kilometers (37 miles). It runs from 5:30 am to 11:30 pm. On Fridays and Saturdays, it stays open until 1:30 am. The Metro is handy but doesn't cover the historic center well. Buses and trams are better for tourist spots.
Does Rome, Italy Have Uber?
Yes, Rome has Uber, but it's different. You can only use Uber Black, Uber Lux, and Uber Van. These are fancy rides with professional drivers. No regular UberX here because of local rules and taxi competition.
Does Rome, Italy Have Casinos?
Rome doesn't have any real casinos. The Italian government cracks down on gambling. If you want to hit the tables, you need to leave the city. Head to Casino de la Vallée in Saint-Vincent or Casino di Venezia in Venice. Both spots have lots of games and swanky vibes. Don't want to travel? Online gambling is legal and big here.
Book Popular Activities in Rome
Here are some great tours in Rome you gotta check out:
Rome: Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel, and Basilica Tour
Walk through the Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel, and St. Peter's Basilica. See the Pine Courtyard, Gallery of the Maps, and Tapestry Gallery. Check out the Raphael Rooms and end at St. Peter's Basilica.
Rome: Priority Access Colosseum, Roman Forum & Palatine Tour
Skip the line and hit up the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill. Explore the Colosseum's first and second levels. Learn about gladiators and emperors. Also, visit the Arch of Constantine and the House of the Vestal Virgins.
Rome: Colosseum Underground & Roman Forum Guided Tour
Get into the underground areas of the Colosseum. See where gladiators and wild animals stayed. Walk their paths. Then, visit the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill to see ancient ruins.
Rome: Trastevere Roman Food Guided Walking Tour
Join a local guide and eat your way through Trastevere. Taste authentic Roman dishes, wine, and gelato. It's a fun way to dive into the local food scene.
Best Night Clubs in Rome, Italy
Rome's nightlife is electric. From swanky clubs to chill local spots. Here's a rundown of the top nightclubs in Rome for 2026.
Goa Club
Goa Club is in Ostiense. It's all about techno and house music. Locals and tourists flock here. The dance floor fits 700 people. DJs keep the energy high.
Spazio 900
Spazio 900 is in the EUR district. This spot is a magnet for electronic music fans. Big events, big crowds. It's a top pick for an epic night.
Circolo Degli Illuminati
Three dance floors, each with its own vibe. House, techno, and electronic beats. Located on Via Giuseppe Libetta. Always buzzing with energy.
Toy Room
Toy Room is near Barberini. Part of a global chain. Exclusive, trendy, and hip-hop central. Dress to impress here.
La Cabala
Above Hostaria dell'Orso, in a 14th-century building. Overlooks the Tiber River. Features a nightclub, restaurant, and piano bar. Classy and stylish.
Akab Club
In the heart of Roman nightlife. Spacious and known for great music. Hosts many talented artists. A staple for clubbers.
Rashomon Club
15 years strong in Ostiense. A hub for underground techno music. An authentic Roman clubbing experience.
Room 26
Located in Piazza Guglielmo Marconi. Known for top-notch DJs and sound systems. A lively, classy spot. A must-visit in Rome's nightlife.
The Sanctuary Eco Retreat
Near Monti, blending Tulum and Thailand vibes. Combines music, food, and wellness. Offers live music and wellness activities.
Alcazar Live
Once a movie theater, now a club in Trastevere. Known for live music sessions and themed nights. Also has a restaurant. Perfect for a full night out.
Beaches Near Rome, Italy
If you're heading to Rome and want some beach vibes, you're in luck. Here are some top spots nearby:
Lido di Ostia
Just a 30-minute train ride from Rome. Super close and convenient. It's crowded but perfect for a quick dip. For a quieter spot, head to Cancelli for public beaches and dunes.
Santa Marinella
An hour by train from Termini Station. Clear waters, great for snorkeling and diving. The town has a marina, castle, and tons of restaurants.
Sperlonga
About 90 minutes from Rome by public transport. Picture-perfect town with a Blue Flag beach. Clean water and scenic views near the Grotto of Tiberius.
Santa Severa
Family-friendly and 40 minutes by train from San Pietro station. Features a 14th-century castle on the beach. Sand ranges from brown to black, and it's pretty chill.
Sabaudia
Known for long, sandy beaches backed by dunes and villas. Awarded the Blue Flag for cleanliness. It's a bit of a trek, but worth it for the natural setting.
Terracina
Beautiful beach with palm trees and seafood spots. The town's historical center and the Temple of Jupiter Anxur offer stunning views. Mix of private and free beach areas.
Gaeta
Golden sands and historical sites. Medieval churches, a castle, and multiple beaches. Close to Sperlonga and Terracina for easy beach hopping.
Anzio
South of Rome with clean waters and historical sites, like Nero's villa. Nearby Nettuno offers a charming medieval old town and more beach options.
Fregene
Chic beach scene, popular with stylish young Romans. Great nightlife and beach clubs. Water quality varies, but it's awesome for socializing and parties.
Castel Porziano
Wild and natural beach within a nature reserve. It's a bit of a walk from the bus stop, making it quieter and more serene.
The Best Hotels in Rome, Italy
The following are some of the best hotels in Rome, Italy:
Budget Hotels
The RomeHello
The RomeHello is close to Termini Station. Rooms are clean and comfy. Great vibe for budget travelers.
Hotel Cristoforo Colombo
Located in EUR district. Offers an outdoor pool and free WiFi. Rooms are spacious and a good base for exploring.
Family Hotels
UNAHOTELS Trastevere Roma
In the Trastevere district. Big family rooms and a friendly vibe. Close to family attractions and places to eat.
Hotel Damaso
Near Piazza Navona. Modern and comfy. Free WiFi and a rooftop terrace with city views.
Mid-Range Hotels
Palazzo Navona Hotel
Steps from Piazza Navona. Combines modern design with classic style. Comfy rooms and great service.
Hotel Martis Palace
In Navona district. Offers luxury and comfort. Central location with modern amenities and friendly staff.
Luxury Hotels
Umiltà 36
Near Piazza Venezia. Luxurious with top-notch service. Has a fitness center and gourmet restaurant.
Anantara Palazzo Naiadi Rome Hotel
In a historic building at Piazza della Repubblica. Opulent rooms, a rooftop terrace, and a spa. Perfect for a grand experience.
Food in Rome, Italy
Rome's food scene is a mix of traditional dishes, modern twists, and street food.
Traditional Roman Cuisine
Pasta Dishes
Carbonara
Carbonara is a Rome staple. Made with spaghetti or rigatoni, guanciale, Pecorino Romano, black pepper, and eggs. Mix the eggs with hot pasta for a creamy sauce. No cream needed.
Cacio e Pepe
Simple but tasty. Pasta, Pecorino Romano, and black pepper. The cheese and pasta water make a smooth, creamy sauce.
Amatriciana
Similar to carbonara but with tomato sauce. Guanciale and Pecorino Romano add rich flavor.
Meat Dishes
Coda alla Vaccinara
Oxtail stew cooked with tomatoes, red wine, and veggies. Hearty and full of flavor. Perfect with bread.
Trippa alla Romana
Tripe simmered in a tomato sauce with carrots, onions, and Pecorino cheese. Tender and rich in flavor.
Abbacchio Scottadito
Grilled baby lamb chops marinated in olive oil, garlic, and herbs. Tender and flavorful, perfect for special occasions.
Street Food
Supplì
Rice balls with tomato sauce and mozzarella, breaded and deep-fried. Crispy outside, gooey inside. Great snack or appetizer.
Pizza al Taglio
Pizza by the slice. Baked in large trays, sold by weight. Crispy crust, soft middle, with various toppings.
Trapizzino
A modern twist. Triangular pizza dough sandwiches filled with classic Roman dishes like meatballs or chicken cacciatore.
Vegetarian Dishes
Carciofi alla Giudia
Jewish-style artichokes. Deep-fried until crispy outside, tender inside. A popular appetizer from Rome's Jewish community.
Carciofi alla Romana
Roman-style artichokes. Braised with garlic, mint, and olive oil. Highlights natural flavors, especially during artichoke season.
Sweet Treats
Maritozzo
Sweet bun with whipped cream. Traditionally for breakfast. Perfect with coffee, found in many Roman bakeries.
Torta Ricotta e Visciole
Ricotta cheese tart with sour cherries in flaky pastry. A dessert from Rome's Jewish community. Unique and delightful.
Coffee Culture
Rome takes coffee seriously. Espresso, cappuccino, and pastries are a morning ritual. Places like Sant'Eustachio Il Caffè and Roscioli Caffè Pasticceria are must-visits for a true Roman coffee experience.
The Best Pasta in Rome, Italy
Rome. The city of pasta dreams. Here's where to get the best:
Trattoria Da Enzo al 29
In Trastevere. This spot nails traditional Roman dishes. The rigatoni carbonara and amatriciana are top-notch. Fresh ingredients straight from their own farm.
Cesare al Casaletto
Loved by locals and tourists. The gricia here is killer. Rigatoni with sauce that clings perfectly. Authentic Roman vibe.
Osteria La Quercia
Tucked away in a tiny piazza. Their cacio e pepe is perfect. Thick, chewy tonnarelli with a peppery kick. The amatriciana also rocks.
Alfredo alla Scrofa
Where Fettucine Alfredo was born. Near Piazza Navona. Just fettuccine, butter, and Parmigiano. Classic and simple.
Lo Scopettaro
In Testaccio since 1930. Known for its hearty amatriciana. Served with rigatoni or tonnarelli. Sticking to tradition.
Matricianella
Historic Rome spot since 1957. Specializes in Bucatini all'Amatriciana. Feels like grandma's kitchen. Simple and flavorful.
Le Mani in Pasta
A Trastevere gem. Excels in seafood pasta. Spaghetti with bottarga, clams, and prawns is a standout. Puglia and Sardinia chefs.
Colline Emiliane
Not Roman, but great lasagna. Spinach dough with Emilia Romagna ragout. Taste of the north in Rome.
EGGS
In Trastevere. Carbonara in many ways. Black truffle, red prawns, 'nduja sausage. A carbonara lover's paradise.
Proloco Trastevere
Ingredients from small Lazio producers. Unique dishes like Conciato di San Vittore cheese. Traditional with a twist.
Pierluigi
A Roman institution since 1938. Known for fresh seafood. Seasonal menu in a beautiful piazza. Classic and classy.
The Best Restaurants in Rome, Italy
Here's the lowdown on Rome's best eats, broken down by category:
Casual
Bono Bottega Nostrana - Piazza di Spagna
Casual spot with killer sandwiches. Think crispy paninis and pulled pork. Local cheeses and salami on fresh bread.
The Loft
Near the Vatican. They do porchetta sandwiches and carbonara. Fresh juices and breakfast too.
Sesamo Trastevere
In Trastevere. American and Italian mix. Pizburgers, pizzas, and burgers. Vegan options available.
Family
Mama Eat Roma Trastevere
Near the Vatican. Wood-fired pizza, gluten-free pasta. Don't miss the pistachio tiramisu. Family-friendly.
Vecchia Trastevere
Cozy Trastevere spot. Known for cacio e pepe and pasta with eggplant. Great Aperol Spritz.
VII Coorte
Trastevere joint. Sicilian seafood dishes like swordfish ravioli. Big wine selection.
Mid-range
Adesso Vineria-bistrot
World-class tiramisu. Special dining experience. Focus on Italian and Mediterranean dishes.
La Fata Ignorante - Rooftop Restaurant & Bar
Famous for beef cheeks and amberjack. Best carbonara in Rome.
Osteria Da Fortunata - Baullari
Handmade pasta and traditional Roman dishes. Carbonara and Cacio e Pepe are musts.
Fine Dining
Ad Hoc Ristorante (Circo Massimo)
Perfect food and wine experience. Italian and Mediterranean tasting menu.
Ristorante Crispi 19
Italian, seafood, and Mediterranean cuisine. Upscale vibe.
Pipero Roma
Top-notch Italian, seafood, and Mediterranean dishes. High-end setting.
Does Rome, Italy Have Starbucks?
Yes, Rome has Starbucks. The first one opened in May 2023 at Piazza Montecitorio. It's right in the heart of the city. This was Starbucks' 25th store in Italy. Two more opened at Roma Termini Station. One is in the basement and another on the terrace. Both spots are perfect for locals and tourists. Starbucks keeps growing in Italy, even with all the traditional coffee spots around.
