Rome, The Eternal City, is the capital city of Italy and the Lazio region. The Eternal City was first named such by the Roman poet Tibullus in the 1st century B.C. With such a rich history everywhere you turn and a long time known as Caput Mundi (Capital of the World), it’s no wonder all roads lead to Rome.
I make it a habit to always spend at least one night in Rome during my time in beautiful Italy. It's usually the grand finale on my way home, and something about the city fills you with a rush of energy and excitement, it caps off any vacation perfectly.
With only one night in Rome, there are a few things to check off your list:
STAY THE NIGHT:
Hotel Maalot - If you want to be in the hub of it all, walking distance to all the best places, stay here. You can hear coins dropping into the Trevi Fountain from your window.
La Posta Vecchia - Sister hotel of the infamous Hotel Il Pellicano, La Posta Vecchia is built on the site of an ancient villa and 17th century castle in Palo Laziale, just a few miles from Rome. When I am looking to relax one final day before heading to the airport, I can’t think of a more wonderful place to spend my final night than here. Listen to waves crashing as they lull you to sleep and get you ready for the travel day ahead. Should you choose to stay at here, don’t you dare leave!
If you stay in the city however, continue below…
APERITIVO:
Enjoy an Aperol Spritz at Harry's Bar: Via Vittorio Veneto, 150, 00187 Roma
Hopefully you get the pleasure of having Marino Forgetta as your bartender, who will take a selfie if you ask for a photo, and has become a friend I look forward to seeing year after year.
EAT:
Wherever you go, eat as much Carbonara, Cacio e Pepe, and/or Amatriciana pasta as you can. You’re in the land of it after all!
If you are in the city in time for lunch -
Eat at Pastifico Guerra (enjoy daily changing €4.50 pasta), located near the Spanish Steps.
Or Bonci
Dinner -
My current favorite is Roscioli Salumeria con Cucina - the best pasta I’ve ever had. Sit up at the bar and enjoy the lively scene, drink good wine, and you can even shop for some beautiful oils and spices and such.
Other options -
Matricianella (best amatriciana in town)
DRINK:
After dinner drinks at Gregory's Jazz Bar
Other options -
PLAY:
Make out on the Spanish Steps.
Toss a coin (or two or three) in the Trevi Fountain.
Go to The Mercado Trionfale, considered the first Roman market.
Take a vespa tour with ScooterRoma.
See Monte Testaccio, a cool neighborhood built on a mount of amphora tile pieces, dating back to Ancient Rome.
Appia Antica Parl - Home to the largest green area in Europe.
And of course do all your last minute shopping! :
SHOP:
Schostal - for luxurious pajamas
Gran Cafe Marcel - amazing artwork souvenirs
PARALUMI-LAMPSHADES-LAR dal 1938 - Handmade lampshades
Aldo Fefe
Rossati
TRIPLEF
Totti Tessuti
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