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Rome Travel Guide: The Best Hotels, Restaurants, and Things to Do

Jun 27

Rome is one of those rare cities that somehow exceeds every expectation. It is impossibly historic, endlessly beautiful, and surprisingly alive. Ancient ruins sit beside designer boutiques. Michelin-starred dining shares streets with family-run trattorias that have been serving pasta for generations. One moment you’re standing inside the Colosseum imagining gladiators; the next you’re sipping an espresso in a sun-drenched piazza that feels unchanged for centuries.

The secret to Rome is balancing the major landmarks with the slower moments. Yes, you’ll visit the Vatican and toss a coin into the Trevi Fountain. But you’ll also wander cobblestone streets without a destination, linger over long lunches, discover tiny artisan shops, and stop for gelato more times than you planned.

Here’s everything worth adding to your Rome itinerary.

Where to Stay

Hotel de Russie

The iconic Roman luxury hotel. Located between the Spanish Steps and Piazza del Popolo, Hotel de Russie is famous for its stunning terraced gardens, which feel like a hidden oasis in the middle of the city. Afternoon aperitivo on the garden terrace is practically a Roman institution.

Hotel Eden

Perched above the city, Hotel Eden offers some of the most spectacular rooftop views in Rome. Elegant rooms, exceptional service, and one of the best breakfast views in Italy make this a favorite among luxury travelers.

J.K. Place Roma

Boutique luxury at its finest. Intimate, stylish, and incredibly chic, J.K. Place feels more like staying in a beautifully designed private residence than a hotel. Its location near the Spanish Steps makes exploring easy.

Portrait Roma

Owned by the Ferragamo family, Portrait Roma blends understated luxury with impeccable service. The rooftop terrace offers sweeping city views, and the location is ideal for shopping and sightseeing.

Palazzo Manfredi

The ultimate room-with-a-view experience. Few hotels in the world can compete with waking up directly across from the Colosseum. The views alone are worth the reservation.

Il Palazzetto

Small, romantic, and perfectly positioned above the Spanish Steps. This intimate property is ideal for travelers looking for charm, personalized service, and one of the best locations in Rome.

The Historic Sites You Cannot Miss

The Colosseum, Roman Forum & Palatine Hill

Book these together and dedicate at least half a day to exploring Ancient Rome. Walking through the Colosseum is impressive, but the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill provide the context that brings the entire empire to life.

Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel

One of the world’s greatest collections of art. Book tickets well in advance and arrive early if possible. Seeing Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel ceiling in person is every bit as remarkable as you’ve heard.

The Pantheon

Perhaps the most astonishing building in Rome. Nearly 2,000 years old and still standing with its original dome intact, it remains one of the greatest architectural achievements in history.

Borghese Gallery

A must for art lovers. Home to masterpieces by Bernini, Caravaggio, and Raphael, entry is limited and reservations are required well in advance.

Castel Sant’Angelo

Originally built as Emperor Hadrian’s mausoleum, it later served as a fortress and papal refuge. The rooftop views over Rome are spectacular.

Trevi Fountain

Touristy? Absolutely. Worth seeing? Without question. Visit early in the morning or late at night to avoid the largest crowds.

Piazza Navona

One of Rome’s most beautiful squares, filled with fountains, artists, and outdoor cafés.

Campo de’ Fiori

By morning it’s a bustling market. By evening it’s one of Rome’s liveliest gathering places.

The Best Shopping in Rome

Via Condotti

Rome’s most famous luxury shopping street, home to flagship boutiques from Valentino, Gucci, Bulgari, Fendi, and other Italian fashion houses.

Via Borgognona

A quieter, more refined luxury shopping experience perfect for leisurely browsing.

Nardecchia

One of the city’s best sources for prints, engravings, and antiques near Piazza Navona.

Porta Portese Market

Rome’s famous Sunday flea market. Arrive early and be prepared to hunt for treasures.

Campo de’ Fiori Market

Perfect for local produce, spices, gifts, and a glimpse into daily Roman life.

Where to Eat

La Pergola

Rome’s only three-Michelin-starred restaurant and one of the most celebrated dining experiences in Italy. If you’re planning a special meal, this is it.

Il Pagliaccio

An intimate two-Michelin-starred restaurant known for creative tasting menus and impeccable service.

Ristorante Aroma

A Michelin-starred dining experience with one of the most unforgettable views in Rome. The terrace overlooks the Colosseum, making dinner here feel truly magical.

Roscioli

A Rome institution. Famous for its pasta, cured meats, wine selection, and impossibly difficult reservations. Book early.

Da Enzo al 29

A classic Roman trattoria in Trastevere serving some of the city’s most beloved traditional dishes.

Tonnarello

Lively, energetic, and quintessentially Roman. Expect excellent pasta and a bustling atmosphere.

Supplì Roma

The place to try Rome’s beloved fried rice balls. Simple, delicious, and deeply local.

Sant’Eustachio Il Caffè

One of the most famous coffee bars in Italy and a required stop for espresso lovers.

Giolitti

A Roman classic serving some of the city’s most beloved gelato since 1900.

Fatamorgana

A more modern gelateria known for creative flavors and exceptional ingredients.

Rome is a city best experienced slowly. Leave room in your itinerary for wandering. Stop when you see a beautiful piazza. Order the extra gelato. Take the longer route home. Some of the best moments in Rome aren’t the famous landmarks at all—they’re the unexpected corners, hidden courtyards, and long evenings spent watching life unfold around you.

Because while Rome’s history may be what brings most people here, it’s the atmosphere that makes you want to return.