The Perfect Day: Rome

“Rome was a poem pressed into service as a city.” – Anotole Broyard

With its urban hustle and bustle set against the backdrop of centuries-old monuments and landmarks, there’s simply nowhere else in the world like Rome. One winding street after another teems with activity; travelers who can spare a bit of time to wander are guaranteed to stumble across a hidden gem or two. Plus, squeeze in some time in Vatican City and you can cross another country off your bucket list.

Breakfast: Start your morning at a bakery in Trastevere where you can grab a cornetto (a delightful cousin of the croissant that’s stuffed with everything from jam to Nutella) and a cappuccino. Although you might want to consider making that breakfast to-go, since there’s no time to waste in Rome.

Outdoor Activity: The view from Terrazza Viale del Belvedere is breathtaking at any time of day, but sunset is downright magical. Head up to this free public park to drink in the view and enjoy some downtime before you shift gears for the afternoon and evening.

Lunch: A morning of sightseeing is sure to work up an appetite, so pop into Sora Lucia for a meal just like your grandma used to make, if your grandma was a master of Italian cuisine and could make a lasagna that would cause you to weep with joy. Trevi Fountain is right down the street and a great spot to sit awhile until your food coma lifts.

Shopping: Should you find yourself in Rome on a Sunday, don’t miss the Porta Portese street market with hundreds of vendors selling everything from cashmere sweaters to spare car parts.

Dinner: If you’re gonna drop some serious coinage on a dinner, Italy seems like the place to do it, right? Throw caution (and your savings) to the wind and get a table at Aroma, a Michelin-starred restaurant with a stunning view of the Colosseum. If you’re dining on a dime, head to Pane e Tempesta in the Gianicolense quarter where you’ll be treated to an amazing array of Roman pies. 

Attraction/Splurge: Save yourself hours in line, and buy your tickets online in advance to tour popular sites like The Sistine Chapel and The Colosseum. Simply show up at your appointed time and walk right in, bypassing the hot, tired, and hungry fools who didn’t plan ahead.

Drinks/Nightlife: Bookend your day by landing right back where you started. The Trastevere neighborhood offers your pick of lively bars packed with a mix of locals and students from the nearby universities.

Book To Bring: The Roman Spring of Mrs. Stone by Tennessee Williams, follows the drifting life of a former American actress and wealthy widow in the years after the end of World War II. The city’s best-known landmarks and vistas are basically supporting characters.

How Do You Say:
Hello/Goodbye: Ciao! (the Italians make it easy)
Thank You: Grazie! 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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