A Weekend in Rome: Exploring the Eternal City
The city’s march Marathon, Must-See Sights & LOCAL REOMMENDATIONS
Not that you need a good excuse to visit one of the most iconic and historically significant cities in the world that also happens to be in a country with amazing food, but we had one: The Rome Marathon. Our trip to Rome in March 2023 was inspired by Rich’s run. I feel confident in throwing down this oft-overused adjective to describe the experience: Epic. (More on the marathon below!)
There’s of course unignorable, impressive centuries-old history intertwined throughout the eternal city - the Roman Forum, the Colosseum, Palatine Hill, the Pantheon - but I also felt a much more modern history sense of old Hollywood glamour being there.
This could just be my personal penchant for vintage aesthetic and love of classic films, or perhaps being in the eternal city had a magic akin to being on a movie set. Either way, it was an exquisite Roman holiday.
PLANNING YOUR TRIP TO ROME
Let’s face it: Travel planning can be overwhelming! This goes without saying that you can find a wealth of information about visiting Rome, via guidebooks and websites.
Though I consult many websites and books myself, my next step is always to find personal recommendations, either from people I know or blogs whose style and interests seem to overlap with mine.
Below I share restaurant recommendations I gleaned from locals, a very chic and reasonable boutique hotel, and ideas on what to see and do on your Roman holiday!
The post may contain affiliate links meaning I get commission if you decide to make a purchase through my links, at no cost to you.
WHERE TO STAY IN ROME
Sentho Roma
I searched for affordable boutique hotels Rome and am so glad I finally discovered this one.
Located in the Monti neighborhood, this hotel is stylish, comfortable and relatively reasonable. They also had excellent cocktails at the bar. I would definitely stay again.
OTHER HOTELS ON MY RADAR IN ROME
SOME NOTES ON FOOD IN ROME
When you think of food in Rome, get ready for a delicious mix of simplicity and tradition. It’s all about fresh, high-quality ingredients that really shine.
Pasta is a highlight, with dishes like Cacio e Pepe (cheese and pepper), Carbonara (eggs and pancetta), and Amatriciana (tomatoes and guanciale).
Pizza is thin and crispy, often topped with artichokes and fresh mozzarella. And you can’t miss the artichokes themselves—try Carciofi alla Romana or Carciofi fritti (fried).
For meat lovers, there’s Abbacchio alla Romana (roast lamb) and Saltimbocca alla Romana (veal wrapped in prosciutto).
Pecorino Romano cheese is a must for grating over pasta, and for dessert, indulge in Maritozzi (sweet cream buns) or Tiramisu.
Don’t forget to enjoy a strong espresso—coffee is a big deal here! Overall, Roman cuisine is all about bold flavors and sharing good times at the table. You’re in for a treat!
ROME RESTAURANT RECOMMENDATIONS
Dilla. Not far from the Spanish Steps, this restaurant came as a recommendation from a long-time Roman resident. For me, the vibe hit a sweet spot: Not a classic trattoria but not uber trendy either.
La Taverna dei Fori Imperiali. This one appeared on nearly every list I consulted before the trip. After a failed attempt at a last minute walk up one night, we snagged the last table by the window for lunch on Monday. It deserves it’s spot on the lists.
Fafiuché. The night we couldn’t get into La Taverna, we stopped a few doors down at this tasty restaurant/wine bar.
Ditta Trinchetti. Cozy Trastevere trattoria. Came as a recommendation from a native Roman I met while traveling to Geneva, Switzerland earlier in the year.
La Matriciana. Not far from our hotel, this no fuss classic spot was just the ticket for our first meal upon arrival.
IDEAS ON WHAT TO SEE & DO IN ROME
*Though we often opt for self-guided tours when we travel, I would say Rome is a place worth booking guided tours. The help navigating logistics and entrance to the highly popular sites alone is worth it. I’ve linked some options below.
The Colosseum, The Roman Forum & Palatine Hill - Three iconic landmarks in Rome that offer a fascinating glimpse into ancient Roman life. Many visitors opt for a combined ticket to visit all three sites, which can save time and money. Here are a couple of options:
The Vatican Museum - Home to a vast collection of renowned artworks, including the Sistine Chapel, famous for Michelangelo's breathtaking ceiling. We opted for a guided tour, which I would *highly recommend for ease of entrance, logistics and navigating this behemoth. We booked the following via Get Your Guide and it was perfect:
The Pantheon - The Pantheon is one of the best-preserved and most influential monuments of ancient Rome. Admission to the Pantheon is free, but here are a couple of options for a guided tour and a self guided audio tour:
Rome: Pantheon Timeless Marvel Guided Tour with Entry Ticket
Rome: Pantheon Skip-the-Line Ticket and Official Audio Guide *Self guided
Trevi Fountain - It is said that tossing a coin into the fountain guarantees a return to Rome! As a Rome “must-see” site the crowds can be fierce. Grab a cup of coffee and try for an early morning visit. Couple this visit with a walk over to…
Piazza Navona - One of Rome’s most beautiful and lively squares known for its three famous fountains: Fountain of the Four Rivers, Fountain of Neptune, Fountain of the Moor. *There are numerous cafes and restaurants around the piazza, but be mindful of higher prices due to the prime location. Consider exploring side streets for more authentic and affordable dining options.
Spanish Steps - One of Rome’s most famous and picturesque landmarks.
Trastevere - Bohemian neighborhood known for its narrow cobblestone streets, colorful buildings, lively atmosphere and excellent trattorias.
San Clemente Basilica - It consists of three levels: the current 12th-century church, an earlier 4th-century church, and a 1st-century Roman house. This unique structure showcases the evolution of Christian worship and architecture over centuries.
For my next trip…
The Borghese Gallery - The gallery is famous for its impressive sculptures by Gian Lorenzo Bernini. They say it’s best to book tickets in advance due to the gallery’s popularity.
Cinecittà - Rome’s legendary film studio, often referred to as the "Hollywood of Italy."
The Rome Marathon
If you are a runner (or a race cheerleader!) the Rome marathon is an excellent race. With a stunning and relatively flat course plus a fun atmosphere with plenty of fanfare, it was a super experience. Plus, with a start line next to the Colosseum, you are bound to get a boost of gladiator energy, right?!
In addition, Rome in March temperature - high of 62° and low of 44° - provides comfortable weather both for running and sightseeing!
You can get more information on the official Rome Marathon website.
VINTAGE SHOPs IN ROME
*Sharing a few I had the chance to visit!
Twice Vintage (Trastevere)
King Size Vintage (Monti)
Humana Vintage (there are several locations, we visited the one in Monti)
SAVE TO PINTEREST
