DISCOVERING THE HISTORY, ART, AND CUISINE OF ROME
The grandeur and wonder of ancient Rome
Embark on a captivating journey through time where historical grandeur meets Italian charm. Over three thrilling days, you'll traverse centuries of history and art, winding through the streets of Rome and Vatican City. From the colossal might of the Colosseum to the divine beauty of St. Peter's Basilica, this adventure promises an immersive peek into the heart and soul of ancient civilization, paired with enchanting modern delights.
Your Roman holiday kicks off with an unforgettable day exploring Rome's ancient wonders, including the Roman Forum & Palatine Hill, before wandering through the vibrant lanes of Trastevere—Rome's treasure trove of culture and cuisine. Imagine standing in awe at the foot of emperors' monuments and then indulging in authentic Italian delicacies at Nannarella or sipping exquisite wines at Enoteca Trastevere. The contrast between majestic ancient ruins and lively contemporary eateries sets the tone for a journey that is as much a feast for the senses as it is a deep dive into history.
The adventure continues into Vatican City, a sovereign marvel home to artistic masterpieces beyond compare. Marvel at Michelangelo's awe-inspiring frescoes in the Sistine Chapel; roam endless corridors filled with treasures in Vatican Museums; witness unmatched religious architectural grandeur at St. Peter’s Basilica; and end your day dining under starlit skies at Cielo Terrace or indulging in gourmet flavors at Imàgo. This leg blends spiritual serenity with epicurean ecstasy — all within the heart of one of Rome's most revered locales.
Crown your expedition with a day unlike any other—cycling along Appian Way where chariots once raced; delving into eerie yet fascinating catacombs; relishing tranquil moments amidst Borghese Gallery’s art or Villa Borghese Gardens’ greenery; before elevating yourself physically and spiritually atop Terrazza Nainer’s panoramic views over Rome—a symphony for your eyes only. Conclude evenings sipping on quality beverages amidst rooftop gardens like AcquaRoof Terrazza Molinari or unveiling culinary mysteries at Divinity Restaurant & Lounge. With each pedal stroke, sip, step, and gaze upon timeless art and nature combined—this itinerary celebrates not just a trip but an experience cradling you from daylight explorations to nocturnal reveries beneath Rome’s eternal sky.
Days
Day 1: Exploring Vatican City and Rome's Historic Heart
<p>Start your exploration of Rome with an early visit to Vatican City, the smallest country in the world, boasting monumental treasures like the Vatican Museums, the Sistine Chapel, and St. Peter’s Basilica. Dive into the Vatican Museums to marvel at centuries-old art and history, followed by the awe-inspiring beauty of Michelangelo's work in the Sistine Chapel. A visit to St. Peter's Basilica presents an opportunity to witness Renaissance architecture at its finest. For lunch, indulge in Roman classics at local favorites such as Alice Pizza or Scialla the Original Streetfood.</p> <p>After refueling, make your way to Castel Sant’Angelo, initially built as a mausoleum for Emperor Hadrian that transformed over centuries into a fortress and castle. Take a moment on Ponte Sant’Angelo for a picturesque view of this historic fortress before venturing into Rome’s historic heart. Wander through iconic squares and fountains including Piazza Navona, Pantheon, Trevi Fountain - don't forget to toss a coin for a return trip to Rome -, concluding your exploration at the Spanish Steps.</p> <p>As dusk falls, dine with a view at Cielo Terrace for casual eats or Imàgo for a Michelin-star showcase of Italian finesse. The blend of stunning views across Rome pairs exquisitely with culinary delights, marking an unforgettable ending to your day filled with history, culture, and gastronomy.</p>
Visit
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Vatican City
World's smallest country, home to the Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel, and St. Peter’s Basilica. Early tours recommended to beat crowds. -
St. Peter’s Basilica
Renaissance-era church in Vatican City, known for its impressive dome and as a principal place of Christian worship. -
Vatican Museums
Iconic museum complex in Vatican City, housing vast collections of art, historical artifacts, and the Sistine Chapel. -
Sistine Chapel
Famous for its Renaissance art, including Michelangelo’s ceiling and The Last Judgement, located within the Vatican Museums. -
Castel Sant’Angelo
Originally Emperor Hadrian’s mausoleum, later a fortress and prison, now a museum with panoramic views of Rome. -
Piazza Navona
One of Rome’s most famous squares, known for its fountains and vibrant street life. Home to Fountain of the Four Rivers. -
Pantheon
Ancient Roman temple, now a church, famed for its large dome and role as a burial place for Roman kings. -
Trevi Fountain
Iconic 18th-century fountain, one of Rome's most famous tourist spots, known for coin-throwing tradition. -
Spanish Steps
A monumental stairway of 135 steps, a popular gathering place and home to the Fontana della Barcaccia.
Eat
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Alice Pizza
Popular spot for pizza by the slice, great for a quick, budget-friendly lunch near Vatican City. -
Borghiciana Pastificio Artiginale
Highly recommended for its artisanal pasta dishes, offering a leisurely lunch option within walking distance of St. Peter’s Square. -
Scialla the Original Streetfood
Offers a variety of street food options near Vatican City, perfect for a quick and tasty lunch break. -
Cielo Terrace
Rooftop bar on top of the Hotel de la Ville, offering aperitifs, dinner, and panoramic views of Rome. -
Imàgo
Michelin-starred restaurant near the Spanish Steps, known for its views over Rome. Reservations recommended.
Transit
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Ponte Sant’Angelo
Historic bridge across the Tiber River offering scenic views and access to Castel Sant’Angelo.
Photos
Day 2: Cycling, Catacombs, and Art in Rome
<p>Begin your Roman adventure by cycling down the Appian Way, an ancient road that not only offers a serene path away from the city's hustle but also takes you on a journey through history. Along the way, take in remarkable sites such as the Circus of Maxentius, before delving into the underground world of the San Sebastian Catacombs, where early Christians buried their dead. After emerging from the catacombs, refuel with a stop at Appia Antica Caffe for some authentic Italian espresso to gear up for an afternoon of art.</p> <p>The Borghese Gallery awaits you next, showcasing one of the world's finest collections of Renaissance and Baroque masterpieces. Here, immerse yourself in the genius of Caravaggio and Titian among others. Following this dose of cultural enrichment, luxuriate in the verdant tranquility of Villa Borghese Gardens. Highlights including Tempio di Esculapio and Orologio ad Acqua del Pincio demonstrate Rome's beautiful blend of art and nature.</p> <p>As evening approaches, ascend to Terrazza Nainer or AcquaRoof Terrazza Molinari for an unforgettable Roman aperitif, offering panoramic views and sumptuous cocktails. Cap off your extraordinary day with dinner at Divinity Restaurant & Lounge in Barberini, where innovative Italian cuisine meets elegance.</p> <p>This day in Rome seamlessly weaves together its ancient paths with bursts of contemporary life affirming how deeply past and present coexist within this eternal city's heart.</p>
Visit
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Appian Way
An ancient Roman road connecting Rome to Brindisi, adorned with monuments and historically significant sites. -
Circus of Maxentius
Ancient Roman chariot racing stadium and part of the imperial palace complex constructed by Maxentius. -
San Sebastian Catacombs
Underground Christian burial site near the Appian Way, known for its long tunnels and martyrs' graves. -
Borghese Gallery
Art museum housed in a 17th-century villa, showcasing masterpieces by Raphael, Caravaggio, Titian, and Bernini. -
Villa Borghese Gardens
Extensive gardens filled with temples, statues, and fountains, offering a peaceful escape from the city. -
Tempio di Esculapio
A picturesque temple located on a small lake within the Villa Borghese Gardens, dedicated to the god of medicine. -
Orologio ad Acqua del Pincio
A unique water-powered clock located in the Villa Borghese Gardens, known for its historical and mechanical interest. -
Terrazza del Pincio
A terrace in Villa Borghese Gardens offering panoramic views of Piazza del Popolo and beyond.
Eat
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Terrazza Nainer
A rooftop bar near Piazza del Popolo, perfect for enjoying drinks with a view. -
AcquaRoof Terrazza Molinari
Rooftop bar and restaurant serving exceptional pasta dishes, with superb city views. -
Divinity Restaurant & Lounge
Near the Pantheon, this spot offers an outdoor terrace for aperitifs and dining with captivating sunset views.
Transit
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Barberini
The closest metro station to Borghese Gallery, providing access to Rome's public transport network. -
Appia Antica Caffe
A small shop on the Appian Way offering bike rentals for exploring the ancient road and its surroundings.
Photos
Day 3: A Day Exploring Rome's Ancient Wonders and Trastevere
<p>Kick off your immersive journey into Rome's ancient heart with a visit to the Colosseum, an iconic symbol of imperial Rome's might. As you tread along the Via Sacra towards the Arch of Titus, you'll find yourself stepping into centuries of history as you enter the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill. Be sure not to miss the bird's eye views from Terrazza Belvedere del Palatino, where the grandeur of ancient Rome unfolds beneath you. After soaking in the antiquities, a leisurely stroll along Via dei Fori Imperiali offers glimpses of further ruins and leads to a rewarding climb up the Altar of the Fatherland for panoramic views that encapsulate Rome's majesty.</p> <p>Refuel with lunch at La Prezzemolina before diving into more historical exploration around Capitoline Hill. Come late afternoon, shift gears and embrace Rome's vibrant local life with an aperitif at Oro Bistrot. The evening promises charm as you wander through Trastevere—Rome’s treasure trove of winding cobblestone streets dotted with artisans, trattorias like Nannarella, and cozy spots such as Enoteca Trastevere for wine enthusiasts or Trapizzino for those craving inventive Italian street food.</p> <p>This portion of your journey perfectly blends ancient marvels with the palpable pulse of contemporary Roman life, offering insights not just into Rome's glorious past but its lively present as well.</p>
Visit
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Colosseum
A UNESCO site and ancient amphitheater famous for gladiatorial contests, capable of holding 80,000 spectators. -
Roman Forum & Palatine Hill
Ancient Rome's center, featuring ruins of important governmental buildings and imperial palaces. -
Altar of the Fatherland
Monument honoring Victor Emmanuel II and Italy's unification, offering panoramic views of Rome. -
Capitoline Hill
Historic hill featuring Michelangelo-designed square, museums with art by Caravaggio, and views of the Roman Forum. -
Trastevere
Charming neighborhood known for its vibrant dining scene, historic streets, and festive atmosphere. -
Terrazza Belvedere del Palatino
Viewpoint on Palatine Hill offering bird's eye views of the Roman Forum and Colosseum.
Eat
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La Prezzemolina
Highly rated restaurant known for Italian street food and pizza al taglio at budget-friendly prices. -
Oro Bistrot
Rooftop terrace with stunning views of the Altar of the Fatherland, serving aperitifs and dinner. -
Nannarella
Popular restaurant in Trastevere known for its authentic Italian cuisine. -
Enoteca Trastevere
Wine bar in Trastevere offering a wide selection of Italian wines and light bites. -
Trapizzino
Famous for its trapizzino, a modern take on traditional Roman street food, located in Trastevere.
Transit
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Via dei Fori Imperiali
A major street in Rome, connecting notable ancient sites including the Roman Forum and Trajan's Column. -
Colosseo
The closest metro stop to the Colosseum, offering easy access to one of Rome's most iconic landmarks.
Photos
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