Where to stay in Rome
Hotel Eden
Via Ludovisi, 00187
Already a city icon, this hotel has experienced further transformation since an 18 month restoration. Its location near the Spanish Steps gives it the advantage of Rome-wide views, while its interior features polished marble and cosseted luxury. Rooms are spacious, while the hotel’s spa is a blissful retreat.
Casacau
Via in Arcione, 00187
Enjoy your own boutique apartment, packed with vintage furniture and objects, close to the Trevi Fountain. Rooms are chic and every one unique, whether it comes with a sauna for two or a secret passage to a hidden balcony. A romantic joy, and ideal for couples.
Palm Suite
Via del Colosseo, 00184
Put down roots here and you can easily dig them up for a short stroll to the magnificent Colosseum or the Roman Forum. It’s not just about location. The rooms themselves are mini-masterpieces of mid-century design, with dashes of modernism and cute kitchenettes.
The best restaurants in Rome
Forno Campo de’ Fiori
Piazza Campo de’ Fiori, 00186
Close to a wonderful neighbourhood market, this classic has been turning out pizza for over 200 years. Grab a slice of pizza bianca or one with a speciality topping, such as courgette flowers, then browse the nearby stalls. They do superb bread and sour cherry tarts as well.
La Pergola
Roma Cavalieri, Via Alberto Cadlolo, 00136
Food tastes much better when served on a candlelit terrace, with views that will make you gasp. Even more so when the kitchen boasts three Michelin stars. The 10 course tasting menu may include gems such as lobster with grape molasses or lamb loin with black lentils and ashed buttermilk.
Felice a Testaccio
Via Mastro Giorgio, 00153
For the classic trattoria experience, book a table at Felice a Testaccio. They’ve been doing the simple things well here since 1936 and are best known for their perfect cacio o pepe – pasta tossed with cheese and copious amounts of black pepper.
Best attractions in Rome
St. Peter’s Basilica
Piazza San Pietro, 00120
Consecrated in 1626, the vast St. Peter’s is built on the site of an even older place of worship. It’s draws visitors from all corners of the globe, keen to witness Michelangelo’s Pieta or Bernini’s bronze baldachin. Insider’s tip, hire an approved guide to skip queues and get access to the Sistine Chapel and Vatican museums.
Colosseum
Piazza del Colosseo, 00184
The grand Colosseum has stood in place since AD80 and is in remarkable repair given its age. Once the home of gladiatorial battles where Emperors, their families and acolytes watched on, it’s now a stunning reminder of Rome’s famed past. Book a guided tour in advance – it’s the only way you’ll get to visit the top three floors.
Galleria Borghese
Piazzale Scipione Borghese, 00197
The halls are hushed here compared to the Sistine Chapel and Vatican Museums, the perfect conditions for a tour of some of the finest art that Rome has to offer. Pre-booking is essential, and well worth it to browse a private collection that encompasses Bernini sculptures and paintings by Titan, Caravaggio and Raphael.