A Roman Odyssey: A Week in the Eternal City
When planning a trip to Italy, many travelers choose to visit Rome only for a few days. While many iconic areas of Rome can be seen in a couple days, opting to spend more time in the Eternal City allows for a much richer immersion and appreciation of all the city has to offer. Read on to hear how our Europe Destination Specialist, Gretchen, spent an enticing week exploring the most famous sites and the many rione, or neighborhoods, of Rome and its surroundings.
As I reflect on my week in Rome, I am overwhelmed by the sheer beauty, history, and vibrancy of this awe-inspiring city. Choosing to spend a week in the Eternal City allowed me to delve deep into its rich tapestry of culture, art, and culinary delights.
On my first day, after a smooth airport train ride into the city, I was captivated by the charm of Cento Storico, where my hotel was located. Wandering through narrow streets, I stumbled upon a delightful Romano restaurant serving up traditional dishes, setting the tone for more of the culinary adventures that awaited me.
The following morning, I embarked on a leisurely stroll through the city, taking in iconic sights such as the Trevi Fountain, Roman Forum, and the majestic Tiber River. In the Ostiense neighborhood, I headed over to the open-air museum of graffiti and street art, a testament to Rome’s evolving cultural landscape and artistic diversity. The Testaccio Market, with its covered outdoor market and tempting array of cheeses and meats, provided the perfect setting for a midday snack.
Venturing into Trastevere, I savored the rich flavors of Italian coffee while soaking in the vibrant atmosphere at a local espresso shop. My day concluded with a visit to the Scuderie del Quirinale, where the Favoloso Calvino show seamlessly blended literature and art, offering a unique perspective on Italo Calvino’s creative genius.
My third day was dedicated to exploring the Vatican on a guided tour. Witnessing the Sistine Chapel, La Pieta, and St. Peter’s Church was nothing short of awe-inspiring. Crossing the Tiber River, I explored the charming Monti neighborhood, a picturesque enclave with narrow streets, pastel-colored buildings, and boutique shops. A traditional Roman pizza by weight fueled my deep dive into local fashion and antiquities in the district.
As I entered the second half of the week, I embarked on an immersive tour of the Colosseum and the Roman Forum taking in the countless stories, legends, battles and rebirths of this ancient city. Following the tour, I ventured to Palazzo Bonaparte for the MC Escher show, tracing the artist’s connections to Italy. The evening led me to Quartiere San Lorenzo, where street art and relaxed vibes intertwined at a charming local bookshop and café. In the evening, with an expert sommelier as my guide, I headed off to a cozy Enoteca and tasted several delightful regional white varietals from Lazio.
Early the following morning I set out on an excursion to Naples and Pompeii, a guided tour that transported me back in time to the ancient ruins and the fascinating and tragic history of the region.
The next day brought an exploration of the Ludovisi and Sallustiano neighborhoods and a leisurely stroll through Villa Borghese Park, which ultimately paved the way to the stunning, iconic Spanish Steps. An evening foodie walking tour in Trastevere was a sensory delight, featuring biscotti, local cheeses and meats, Roman suppli, and the famous carbonara pasta paired with exquisite local wines.
My final day in Rome, I marveled at the breathtaking Chiesa del Gesù, where the 3D-style paintings created an illusion of objects coming off the walls and ceiling. Returning to the Trevi Fountain, I followed the tradition of throwing a coin into the water, ensuring my return to Rome in the future. An aperitivo and a cozy Italian restaurant marked my last night, a perfect conclusion to an absolutely unforgettable week.
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