Rome Travel Guide: All Roads Lead here
Last Updated: April 24, 2025
BACKPACKING ROME SOON AND NEED TO GET TO THE BEST BITS OF THIS ROME TRAVEL GUIDE QUICKLY!
HOW TO GET HERE | WHERE TO STAY | THINGS TO DO | WHERE TO EAT | WHERE TO PARTY | STAYING SAFE
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When in Rome
When in Rome. We've all heard the expression, but what does it actually mean? What do you do?
Luckily, I've explored Rome more than once, so don't worry - I have you covered. My most recent trip was in August 2022, and whilst a lot had changed, there was a lot that hadn't. After all, some of Rome has been around for almost two thousand years.
During this trip, I spent six days eating Italian, drinking Italian and exploring the Italian capital. Therefore, I'm taking you on a tour of all the best things to do in Rome, when to do them, and what to expect.
Additionally, I'll show you all the best foods on offer, where to find them and where to drink.
They say all roads lead to Rome. Whilst that may not be true, this Rome travel guide certainly does. So without further ado, let's start with what's Rome like.
What's Rome Like?
It's old, very old.
But, on a serious note, it's magical, enchanting and engaging. As a result, it's my favourite city in the world, bar none.
The streets are alive with the sounds of joy, gasps of amazement, church bells, running water and the occasional sound of a romantic melody blowing in on the breeze.
In truth, everything about Rome is romantic. And, it's that word 'romantic' that defines the city.
Aromas pour from the colourful and vibrant restaurants and flow through the narrow, often cobbled streets that, in turn, open up into large beautiful and vivacious piazzas.
Fountains, statues and fragrant, colourful flowers dress the open spaces causing your eyes to wander in all directions. Look up, look down, look left, look right. If you don't, you will miss something.
Similarly, the gorgeous, gigantic domes aloft countless buildings, hand-crafted columns and facades draw your attention to every building. In essence, you cannot afford to blink. It's that magical.
Likewise, the food throughout the city is impossible to resist, and you merely have to accept that you will gain weight, but it's worth it. I could go on and on about how amazing Rome is, but I have a Rome travel guide to write. So, I will leave this section with this.
At times, Rome will leave you speechless, bring a tear to your eye or wow you through every emotion you didn't know you had. But most of all, it leads you to a past where power, passion and lust conquered the world, and no other city can do that.
How To Get To Rome
If you're flying into Rome, you're more than likely flying into Fiumicino International Airport, also known as Leonardo da Vinci Airport.
From here, there are many ways into the city. However, not all are twenty-four hours.
Firstly, you have the airport buses run by Terravision, which you will find just outside terminal three. Pop out the terminal and turn right. There is a ticket office next to the bus stop, but you can buy one as you board. Tickets on the day cost €8 (one way).
Generally speaking, the journey takes around forty-five minutes, and Terravision will drop you in Rome on the west side of Roma Termini (Rome's primary train station).
The last bus runs from the airport at 2:50am and starts again at 6.30am.
Secondly, sticking with the train station, you could take the Leonardo express. The express runs every fifteen minutes between terminal three and Roma Termini. Tickets cost €14, and the journey takes thirty-two minutes.
The train runs from the airport between 6.23am and 11.23pm, whilst journeys from Roma Termini to the airport run between 5.35am and 10.35pm.
From Roma Termini, you can take buses all around the city.
I feel like I have to tell you there are taxis. But I wouldn't bother. They try to charge anything from €60 to €110 per person. I know I arrived at one thirty in the morning, but €110, no thanks mate!
Timing Your Trip
How Long Should You Spend Backpacking Rome
I love Rome, so my Rome travel guide will tell you to stay forever. However, I know that's not going to happen.
All in all, four days is enough. Otherwise, you'll burn out. On my last trip, I covered 115,000 steps in nearly six days. I was knackered and aching all over. But it was worth it.
Yes, you can do Rome in three days, but that extra day allows you to sit and enjoy the likes of the Colosseum, Spanish Steps and the Trevi Fountain. Take my advice and soak up that atmosphere with four days in Rome.
The Best Time Of The Year For Backpacking Rome
I never thought I would say this, but don't come to Rome in July or August. It's impossible not to sweat with unthinkable levels of humidity which meant moving around the city was a hardship. During my last tour of Rome in August, the average temperature was about 34°c with a humidity of 78%. I stuck to my clothes.
My advice would be to visit between April to mid-June or mid-September to the end of October.
That way, you'll have dry weather and blue skies. Yet, not have your nuts stuck to your boxers.
Where to Stay Whilst Backpacking Rome
There are so many amazing things to do in Rome, but the well-known attractions do stand scattered across the city. Therefore, you will never be near everything. Accept that you will be walking to some sites or catching a bus.
Yeah, it's not ideal, but it means more calories burnt for that mouthwatering evening meal. Similarly, whilst I am not a fan of buses, they are frequent, clean and cheap. You can buy a ticket which allows you to travel around the city for one hundred minutes for €1.50. Bargain!
Therefore, where to stay in Rome depends on what you want from the city.
If you have the money and don't want to walk far, then you should look to stay around the Piazza Navona. That way, you are within easy walking distance of all the shops and restaurants, the river, the main Piazza, the Pantheon and not too far from the Trevi Fountain and Piazza Venezia.
However, it will cost more compared to staying slightly out of the city centre. Likewise, if you're accommodation is around the Spanish Steps or the Colosseum, prices do inflate, but you will need to walk or catch a bus to the rest of the attractions in Rome.
Nevertheless, if you don't have the money to splash out on a central location, there are plenty of hotels and B&Bs around Roma Termini. You will be right next to the connection to the airport, meaning you don't have to lump your luggage around town, and you have all the buses you desire.
With that said, this Rome travel guide will look specifically at two places I've stayed and hopefully, you'll get a feel for cheap and cheerful.
Hotel Alexis
- What: Friendly, cheap and cheerful B&B-styled hotel.
- Where: Five minutes northeast of Roma Termini. (map)
- Why: In a word, it's cheap. Also, the staff are friendly, it's clean, and near the main bus and train station.
- Why Not: Very basic, no thrills, and it's a twenty-five-minute bus journey from Piazza Navona.
Every morning starts with a coffee of some variety and a delicious pastry of the chef's choice. Almost every person got a different one. However, they're all phenomenal, so you never lose out. It's not a lot, but it helps you start the day.
The reception is small but air-coned, with fantastic staff on standby who attend to your every need, and they're good. They go all out to help, be it sorting out airport transfers, taxis, directions, advice on what to wear to the Vatican and much, much more.
As mentioned, the rooms are basic but clean and comfy, and there is an adequate cooling ventilation system.
On the first floor, there is even a cute little balcony with a water fountain on the wall to top up your bottles.
Aside from the distance to the best things to do in Rome, the only issue is there are five floors and no lifts. If you find stairs hard, this is not for you.
In August 2022, I paid under £40 a night for the above room. Whilst there were two of us, we could have slept three.
Borromeo Hotel
- What: A beautiful hotel with an under-cover rooftop breakfast terrace.
- Where: Not far from Roma Termini on Via Cavour. (map)
- Why: Close to the train station, great breakfast and friendly staff.
- Why Not: You still have a good walk into the main centre of Rome and considering the distance, it's not the cheapest.
A comfy, classy stay close to the Colosseum.
The day starts with a delicious breakfast on the covered roof terrace with a better choice of drinks and food than my previous shout.
However, the rooms are slightly smaller and despite the lavish entrance and stylish decor, are just as basic.
Everything is clean and tidy. The staff are again helpful, friendly and willing to assist with all your questions.
Overall, a very cosy stay in a delightful little hotel in one of the world's greatest cities.
In comparison, a five-night stay in August would set you back around £100 a night (£50 based on two sharing).
Further Accommodation
If you have the money and want to stay more centrally, or splash out a little more than I have, then sadly, I'm unable to help.
Due to funding and only telling you about things I recommend, rather than lying to you, like many other money-making blogs, this Rome travel guide doesn't offer any help with that.
All I can advise is a rough location, as above.
Yet, I will say, if you like the idea of rooftop bar hotels, there are a fair few within the city. One of which I speak about in the where to party section later.
Therefore, I have put my holy trinity of websites below. They will have you covered.
One more thing. You have to pay a city tax in cash before you check out. Typically, this costs about €3-4 a night per person.
Things to do when Backpacking Rome
As mentioned above, all the best things to do in Rome are spread out across the city, meaning you will be hitting your 10,000-step target, probably by breakfast. However, many buses run regularly through Rome if you don't fancy the walk.
You can buy a daily travel card. However, you will need to catch about six buses a day to get value for money. My advice is to buy a 100-minute ticket for €1.50.
Also, if you go against my advice and travel in August, you will find most things shut down on August the 15th for Italy's national holiday. Additionally, most of the attractions are fully booked. Generally, if you don't have a pre-booked ticket, you will not get in.
Speaking of pre-booking, I suggest you pre-book online for several of Rome's main attractions. I use Get Your Guide, as they're trusted and reputable. Furthermore, I've used them and am happy to put my name against them in this Rome travel guide.
But, before I blabber on too much more, let's look into the best things to do in Rome.
Here's the entire list:
- Become a Gladiator and Visit the Colosseum
- Delve into History at the Pantheon
- Visit the Vatican
- Throw a Penny in the Trevi Fountain (or don't)
- Explore the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill
- Climb Spanish Steps
- Escape to Villa Borghese
- Castel Sant'Angelo
- Take in the views from Altare della Patria
- Soak Up the Ambience of the Piazzas
Please, please, please, enjoy my favourite city in the world.
Become a Gladiator and Visit the Colosseum
- Why: Because it's one of the new seven wonders of the world, a UNESCO world heritage site and the centre of the Roman Empire.
- Where: South of the Roman Forum and east of Palatino (Palatine Hill). (map)
- How long: Take an hour to explore the fascinating history held within the gigantic exterior walls.
- How much: Entry tickets start at just over £18 (€21), but for a guided tour, expect to pay more.
Welcome to the most impressive building in Europe, and probably the first thing in every Rome travel guide. So, who am I to change that?
With nearly two thousand years of bloody violence, sports, survival, earthquakes, decay, repair and death and destruction, the Colosseum is somewhere not to be missed. The fascinating history that shows the gigantic arena's past life is somewhere everyone should see at least once in their lifetime.
You'll learn about the gladiators, the people who came to watch and the life of everyday Romans who worked in, on or around the Colosseum during the nearly 300 years of battles that took place here. Over 400,000 people have died within the walls.
Furthermore, you'll get up-close and personal with the intricate and unbelievable building work that makes this one of the new - seven wonders of the world.
A lot of police patrol the perimeter of the Colosseum, who, as far as I could make out, were mainly there for those pesky unauthorised salespeople who offer you the best price on crap you don't need, or want. Regardless of the police presence, pickpocketers frequent the area, so keep an eye on your belongings.
Finally, heads up, don't throw away that ticket. Standard Colosseum entry tickets also allow free access to the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill.
Delve into History at the Pantheon
- Why: It's one of a kind and the final resting place of the first royalty of Italy.
- Where: A couple of blocks east of the Piazza Navona. (map)
- How long: Once inside, you'll only need ten to fifteen minutes.
- How much: Free, so don't get scammed by paying for tickets or buying another ticket that states 'include Patheon access'.
The imposing and beautiful Pantheon and Fontana del Pantheon in the Piazza Della Rotonda are impossible to miss. You could sit and marvel at the stunning architecture and sixteen sublime columns for hours. Come back at night, when the fountain and building are illuminated, taking on a completely new look.
Inside, the oculus appears at the highest point of the building and lets the only natural light into the Pantheon. The oculus is forty-three meters high and forty-three meters wide.
Additionally, there are a couple of tombs, including two former kings and queens of Italy, and towards the back of the building is a small alter complete with pews.
Finally, don't forget to sign the little book to the left of the entrance before you leave.
Visit the Vatican
- Why: It's another country ticked off the list and home to the Pope.
- Where: On the west bank of the River Tiber, a short walk from Castel Sant'Angelo. (map)
- How long: If you only want to see St Peter's Basilica, an hour, plus queue time. But for the Vatican tour, at least two hours.
- How much: St Peter's Basilica is free. However, the Vatican Museum and Sistine Chapel start at around £25 (€33) per person.
St Peter's Basilica
OK, so for St Peter's Basilica and the Vatican City tours, expect to wait around in queues for some time, even if you have a skip-the-line ticket.
To get to St Peter's Basilica, aim for the staggering circle of 284 columns, look at St Peter's Basilica, and go to the right-hand side. You will have to wait unless you have gone online and got skip-the-line tickets. Inside the largest Christian Basilica, you'll find over one hundred tombs, most notably, the supposed burial place of St Peter, the chief of Jesus's 12 apostles and the first pope.
Inside there is stunning art, beautiful statues, and intricate designs on the ceilings, walls and floors. Well worth the queue time.
Vatican Museum and Sistine Chapel
If you're taking a tour of the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel, which I suggest you do, you will have to go to the Museum entrance on Viale Vaticano. Once inside, it is absolute chaos. Just jump in a line that looks like it ends at the cash desk to the left, and show your pre-bought, online ticket.
Then head up the stairs to start the tour. Slowly meander through the utterly breathtaking hallways with miles-upon miles of delectable design work from floor to ceiling. Statues don just about every hallway or open space. Yet, as with the Sistine Chapel, it's the ceilings that rule the Vatican.
You're in for a treat. Expect to be taking the word lavish to a whole new level.
If you want a more in-depth look into Vatican City, check out my Vatican City blog.
Throw a Penny in the Trevi Fountain (or don't)
- Why: Take a look. Have you seen a more spectacular fountain? No, well, that's why.
- Where: One block west from the Giardini del Quirinale. (map)
- How long: That is up to you my friend.
- How much: My favourite word whilst travelling - free.
Essentially it's a large, ornate and over-the-top fountain. Yet it is so much more than that.
Legend has it that if you throw a coin into the Trevi Fountain with your right hand over your left shoulder, you'll find eternal love. Yet, I'm still waiting and I first threw a coin in the fountain back in 2013.
Just make yourself known to me. DM the Insta if you like!
But seriously, despite the crowds and noise from about 7am onwards, it's easy to get lost in the peace and tranquillity of the fountain and the gentle ripple of the water crashing below.
In truth, it's a pleasant way to sit and relax in the big city.
Explore the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill
- Why: One, the views, and two, there's incredible amounts of history held here within one location. Magical!
- Where: Sandwiched between the Colosseum and Altare della Patria. (map)
- How long: You'll need a good couple of hours to see it and take it all in.
- How much: Free once you've bought the Colosseum ticket.
If, like me, you're a bit of a geek on history, remains, archaeology or anything architectural, then you absolutely cannot miss out on the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill. Even if none of that interests you, and all you're interested in are stunning views, this is the place for you.
The historical importance of these ruins is unparalleled, as is the care and dedication to the restoration and upkeep of the area. After all, the Roman Forum is also the burial site for one of the most recognisable people in the world. That's right, Julius Caesar himself lies under the temple of Caesar in the heart of the Forum.
Furthermore, the Roman Forum also boasts unprecedented views of the Colosseum without the crowds.
However, my favourite spot is where I took the picture above, aloft Palatine Hill. From up here, you can see the whole site, the Colosseum and Altare della Patria.
Overall, it's like walking back in time, learning about the history of one of the most influential cities in the world.
Climb Spanish Steps
- Why: It's a sight to behold and leads to a fantastic park.
- Where: Just south of Piazza del Popolo. (map)
- How long: You'll only need minutes to look and maybe a couple more to climb.
- How much: Again, it's all free. Get in there.
Some people see the Spanish Steps and think, ok, they're steps, big woop. And to some degree, they are right.
However, what makes these 138 steps so remarkable is the fact that they connect two significant locations. At the top, you'll find Trinità dei Monti, a renaissance Catholic Church. Whilst, at the base, is Piazza di Spagna and the beautifully sculpted Fontana della Barcaccia.
On the right-hand side of the Spanish Steps, you will also find the home of the celebrated English poet John Keats, who also has his final resting place here in Rome.
I think the steps are stunning and worth the climb. What do you think? Comment at the end of the blog and let me know your thoughts.
Escape to Villa Borghese
- Why: Boat rides, sculptures, open green space and more.
- Where: At the top of the Spanish Steps. (map)
- How long: You could happily lose half a day up here relaxing.
- How much: Free to roam. But if you want to go for a row, go-kart or Riscio (big kart thing), you'll have to pay.
I love a city break, and Rome is my favourite, but there are times when you need to get out of the city. Where better than a large, stunning green garden where the sounds of horns and people fade into the sounds of birds and the rustling of leaves in the breeze?
Take a stroll up Spanish Steps, head left and up the short ramp into the grounds of Villa Borghese and relax in pure bliss.
Although there's more to the grounds than just serenity, there are cafes, funny sculptures, great views and even a fairground ride.
Oh, I nearly forgot, there are some fun ways of getting around. Check out this list.
Costs to hire, as of August 2022
- Rowing boat - €4 per person for 20 minutes.
- Mountain bike - €5 for an hour.
- Go-kart - €5 an hour.
- Riscio (a big kart-like thing with pedals) - €10 -12 per couple for an hour.
Castel Sant'Angelo
- Why: It's an interesting castle, and from the top, epic rooftop views of Rome await.
- Where: On the northern bank of the River Tiber on St. Angelo Bridge. (map)
- How long: About an hour should do.
- How much: €12 (£10) per person. However, there is a little cafe up there, so take extra!
Whilst it's fair to say this isn't the best castle tour in the world, it is worth the entry fee. Yet, that's not surprising when you find out that, initially, it was designed as a mausoleum for the Roman emperor Hadrian. The more you know, hey?
Once you've got your ticket, a large ramp leads you through the centre of the castle, past an array of relics up to the first rung. From here, there's a cute cafe with great food and drink. However, the best part is the framed views through the windows to St Peter's Basilica.
After you've wet your whistle, you head back inside and then climb to the top, where you have incredible views across the Tiber over the rooftops of Rome.
That said, my highlight is coming back at night when the building bursts into light. Honestly, the reflections and views are phenomenal.
Take in the views from Altare della Patria
- Why: You get great views over the Roman Forum and the surrounding buildings.
- Where: At the opposite end of the Via dei Fori Imperiali. (map)
- How long: I'd say you only need thirty minutes.
- How much: Again, it's free.
Again, not the best thing to do in Rome, but it does make it onto my Rome travel guide as a must-do.
Why?
Because of the views, the intricate and sublime design work, and the intriguing statues and artwork donning the stairs, columns and interior.
It is a great building to sit and reflect, people watch and just relax amid the chaos of Rome. Furthermore, the building is of such significant importance that you cannot visit Rome without a quick stop off at the Altare della Patria.
Additionally, for a fee, you can take a lift to the very top, where you can look out over the city.
Soak Up the Ambience of the Piazzas
- Why: It's good to take time out of exploring and simply watch the world go by.
- Where: There are so many across the city. However, here, I've chosen Piazza Navona. (map)
- How long: As long as you need.
- How much: Free!
Part of life in Rome is soaking up the atmosphere, the sounds of laughter, the smells of fresh bread and pizza and enjoying the architectural delights. And the best place to do this is in one of the many Piazzas scattered through the city.
Grab a gelato or a slice of pizza and sit down, take the weight off your feet and relax. This is Rome living at its best.
After all, there is so much going on, people scurrying around, fountains overflowing, and artists putting on displays for all to sit and watch.
Relaxing in the Piazzas takes a firm grip on all your senses and makes them pop. Make sure you have time set aside for it.
Where to Eat When Backpacking Rome
Italian food needs no introduction, and there aren't many places that cook it better than here in the capital.
Hence, if it's in my Rome travel guide, you know it's the best of the best.
When it comes to Rome, there are more restaurants across the city than almost any other I've been to, and whilst I've tried to get through them all, I haven't. But I will be back.
So how do you spot the best restaurants in Rome?
I tend to go at least one street back from the main square, check that there are more locals than tourists in it and finally, that they have something I like, for a price I am happy to pay. And so far, that's paid off pretty well. However, there are a couple of exceptions.
But, before we look into where to eat, let's cover a couple of speciality dishes in Rome.
First up is the suppli. The Rome equivalent of arancini. A small fried rice ball filled with tomato ragu and mozzarella chees.
Next, we have pasta alla carbonara, a delicious pasta dish made from cured pork, egg, cheese and black pepper.
Of course, Rome also cooks up the much-loved Italian classics, pizza, gelato and meatballs. If you followed my Instagram stories, you'd know I'm now a connoisseur of all three.
I've tried to pick my favourites from various locations rather than all in the same place. After all, you might be at the Spanish Steps when hunger strikes, and frankly, you don't want to have to then walk to the Colosseum.
La Piccola Cuccagna
- What: You will hear this a lot within the food section of my Rome travel guide. But, it's a typical, classic Italian restaurant.
- Where: On the southern edge of Piazza Navona. (map)
- How much: A large glass of red, a main, side and dessert only cost me €30 (£25). (menu)
These days, people throw the term best food ever as if they've never eaten before.
Well, I have. I've eaten all over the world, and a lot.
So, when I say that La Piccola Cuccagna does the best meatballs in the world, you know they are. And if you couple that with their fries (thin potato wedges), I'm sure you will agree.
The meatballs fell apart on the fork and melted in the mouth. Frankly, it felt like some kind of divine intervention. No one on earth could have made food this good. It was insane, and I mean bonkers. The flavours were too good for humankind, and I wasn't the only person to say so.
A glass of chianti wine topped off one of the best food experiences of my life.
Furthermore, the staff were fantastic. The attention to detail was excellent, and they made our meal spectacular. 10/10 would go back.
Ristorante Pizza Forum
- What: Pizza specialists with views of the incredible Colosseum.
- Where: On the southern perimeter of the Colosseum. (map)
- How much: Great value for money, considering where you are. €30 got me a starter, a beer and a large pizza. (menu)
What Rome travel guide would be complete without a mention of pizza, when in Rome, and all.
Now, add eating pizza with views of the breathtaking Colosseum, and you've got yourself a recipe for success.
I know that almost all pizzas in Rome are fantastic. However, having had many over my visits, this was the best of the bunch.
The pizzas feel authentic, and taste flavoursome with wholeheartedly Italian ingredients. They're thin, with a slightly fluffy crust done in a traditional Italian way.
Great flavours, attentive staff, great vibe and fantastic views. What's not to like?
Fattoincasa by Hostelaria La Danesina
- What: A classic Italian restaurant with homemade recipes.
- Where: On Via del Governo Vecchio on the northeast corner of Parrocchia Santa Maria in Vallicella. (map)
- How much: €21 (£18) got me a beer, a starter and one of the nicest carbonaras I remember eating. (menu)
We stumbled across this beauty one afternoon while walking the streets on the hunt for gelato, don't worry, I'll come back to this. Having already eaten, we didn't want to appear greedy and didn't want to eat again. So casually, hassle-free, may I add, scanned the menu and immediately booked the table for that evening.
Not all pretty places produce top-quality meals, but Fattoincasa does.
Again, it was traditional homemade recipes passed down through the generations.
Come here, order the Suppli for starter, the carbonara for mains, throw in a beer, and you're in for a good night.
What to expect? Overall, sumptuous textures, mouthwatering flavours, and all in a beautiful, fun and friendly environment.
Thank me in the comments at the bottom.
Bar Ristorante Night and Day
- What: Pizza specialist with a view.
- Where: On the Piazza della Rotonda opposite the Pantheon. (map)
- How much: This beast of a pizza and a pint only set me back €15 (£13).
As with Ristorante Pizza Forum, I broke the rule of never eating on the main square or in front of one of the major attractions in Rome.
Having checked the prices, I was gob-smacked. There was a large ass pizza that looked good, with those views, and for around a tenner, sign me up.
And do you know what? It was as good as it looked.
Whilst this was a banging pizza and again full of flavour, with outstanding service, I had to say I preferred the Pizza Forum. Although, don't let that put you off because you will not be disappointed.
Otello alla Concordia
- What: Should I just call this Rome travel guide 'another Italian classic'? Yet another Italian classic, done the Italian way.
- Where: One road back from the Spanish Steps. (map)
- How much: Between €10 to €20 (£8.50 - £17). (menu)
Without sounding like a broken record, it's another classic Italian.
Whilst I felt the service was a little off, the food more than made up for this.
Once again, the flavours warmed my heart, and this weird thing called a smile just appeared with every mouthful.
It's almost like every restaurant has its take on a dish with its own secret recipe. Even if you order the same meal elsewhere, it will be very different. No two meals are the same.
One hell of a good meal and not too far from the Spanish Steps. Win-win.
All'Antico Vinaio
- What: The only takeaway that makes it onto my list. It's all about flatbread sandwiches.
- Where: One street back from the Pantheon. (map)
- How much: Prices range from €11 - €16 (£9 - £13.50) depending on what you order.
And now for something completely different.
Eating on the move.
I was walking around the city, and all I saw, were people diving into these large flatbread sandwiches wrapped in massive white sheets of paper.
I had to have one.
On my last day in Rome, I found out where they were coming from, and, oh my, I am so glad I did.
A queue ran around the side of the building, back down to the Piazza della Rotonda (that one with Pantheon in it). Yeah, I joined, and I waited with the crowds. This queue kept getting bigger and bigger. In truth, it moves quickly, so if you see it, join it.
The team are quick, and before you know it, you're cradling one of the best sandwiches you'll ever have. Honestly, drop the baby, not the sandwich.
That flatbread still makes me shiver with joy a week later. The meats, that source and wow, the flavours. Out of this world.
These guys will give Ikes Place in San Francisco a run for their money. They're that good. I can see why the queues were there.
Gelato
- What: It's all in the title - it's gelato.
- Where: I'm cheating and adding my favourite three in one section. Otherwise, this will be the lengthiest Rome travel guide ever.
- How much: Prices range from around €4 to about €9 (£3.50 - £7.50).
Here we go, my final Rome travel guide food recommendation. That's right, the ice cold, refreshing and flavoursome gelato.
I tried as many gelatos as I could, but realistically, I probably only covered about a dozen different places (some twice). Truthfully, I did it for you, so the calories don't count.
I know! Hero and all that, No shut up, please stop.
So without further ado, here are my top three, starting with third place.
Third place: Gelateria da Costanza - Grab a pot with your choice of flavours and sit down at the Colosseum and lap it all up. Heavenly!
Second Place: Frigidarium - You know it's good where there's a large queue and other places nearby with no customers. This one, you want in a cone. All I need to say is, check out that picture. It was, somehow, even better than it looked.
Drum roll, please. First place goes to Gelateria Elisa Piazza di Spagna - Amazing flavours on offer, super friendly staff and one of the prettiest gelaterias I've ever had the pleasure of sitting in. Very Instagram, without the crowds and influencers.
Where to Party Whilst Backpacking Rome
As with the previous food section, there are more bars, clubs and rooftop terraces in Rome than my liver could take. So, forgive me if I miss one of your favourite bars in Rome.
Drop me a message on Insta or leave a comment at the bottom of the page, and I will do my best to check it out on my next visit. It's the only way I can create the best Rome travel guide for everyone.
However, before we look into where to drink, I will cover a few popular drinks in Rome, not that you could miss them. You will see them everywhere.
Firstly, we have limoncello, a sweet, yellow liqueur made of Water, lemon zest, rectified spirit and sugar, and averages out at about 30% alcohol.
Secondly, Aperol spritz, a wine-based cocktail served on the rocks. Not my favourite, but again, I couldn't talk about it in this Rome travel guide if I hadn't tried it. Give it a try and let me know what you think.
Another topic I want to cover is safety on a night out.
Throughout my time in Rome, I walked the streets in the early hours, late and at night and got the bus whilst drunk. Not once was I made aware of anything remotely worrying. However, you are in a capital city, so let your hair down, enjoy a night out, but know your surroundings and who is around.
Terrazza Les Etoiles Rooftop bar
- What: A very classy, expensive rooftop cocktail bar.
- Where: On the northern entrance of Ponte Vittorio Emanuele II between the Vatican and Castel Sant'Angelo. (map)
Those of you backpacking Rome on a budget, look away now or scroll down to the next bar a little quicker.
Cocktails average out to around €18 each, so as you can imagine, I didn't get too drunk here. Although, they do give you a good alcohol content level. No shrimping on the good stuff.
Additionally, you get o'dourves to accompany the cocktails. Winning!
Add that to the relaxed vibes, chilled music and fantastic service. I'd say the cocktails are worth every cent.
However, there's more. You don't come here for the perfect cocktails. You come to Les Etoiles for the views, and that's something they have in abundance.
The rooftop bar has stunning views over the city, including the magnificent St Peter's Basilica and surreal Castel Sant'Angelo.
Whether you come here for food and drinks or just one cocktail, I urge you to come here. It's bloody fantastic.
Ferro 54
- What: A friendly, fun, lively yet chilled riverside bar.
- Where: On the southern banks of the River Tiber, on the right-hand side of St. Angelo Bridge, as you look at the castle. (map)
If my last choice was just a little too much outside your budget, this should do just nicely. With this in mind, I'm moving from pricey rooftops to cheap and cheerful riverside bars in one fell swoop.
You could even argue it has similar views, I mean, it hasn't, but it does have unprecedented views from below the Castel Sant'Angelo. In fact, it has two views of it if you count the reflection in the water.
In addition to the views and the vibes of the gently flowing river Ferro 54 bangs out the tunes in a relaxing and fun environment.
I liked the fantastic vibes from the team, and you could see how close they all were. It shines through.
Finally, whilst I didn't have any food, what I saw looked great, so there is quite literally food for thought.
Drink Art Gallery
- What: A funky and fun, arty bar with killer 90s R&B.
- Where: On the corner of Via del Corallo and Via della Pace in the mix of the bars. (map)
Another very different style of bar for you now.
Whilst small, the Art Drink Gallery packs a big punch with numerous drinks, wicked decor and an intriguing side hustle during the day. During the day, you can sit down and learn to paint, chat away with your mates and drink. That sounds like a right laugh!
Yet, by night, instead of being relaxing, it's all about the 90s R&B, randomness and fun.
I love this little bar, and it's right in the mix with numerous other fantastic bars just outside.
Whilst I wouldn't end a night here, it is a fantastic place to start the night in style.
Is Backpacking Rome Safe?
As you know from previous blogs, I always like to add a section on safety, and despite there being no concerns, I'm going to put a quick blurb together on the Rome travel guide for you.
Generally, I would say Rome is one of the safest cities I've ever visited.
Having walked through large parts of the city at all times of the day and night, I have never felt safer. Police are everywhere, and not once, have I seen them lift a finger. Although, in all fairness, they haven't needed to.
Undoubtedly, crime happens, and I'm not saying it won't happen to you. After all, anything can happen at any time. However, as long as you are aware of your belongings in crowded tourist hotspots, you should be able to enjoy Rome without any issues.
In regards to other safety issues, the biggest problem is yourself. If you're drunk and stumble into the road, you will fall victim to the notorious Italian driving. Again, if you're drunk, and shoot through the streets on an e-scooter, you may fall off.
Outside self stupidity, Rome is a safe place to travel. Let your hair down and enjoy it.
Leave a comment
Firstly, thanks for sticking with me on this Rome travel guide. I know it's been a big one, but there's a ton to cover.
After all, Rome is a massive city with more history, culture and passion than most. Similarly, there are hundreds of restaurants and bars popping up across the city. Therefore, if I can point you to the best places to eat in Rome and save you from a soggy caesar salad, I've done something worthwhile.
If you have found my blog helpful in any way whatsoever, be it a restaurant recommendation or a meal preference, please let me know with a comment below. Likewise, if you think I've dropped a ball or missed something, let me know via a comment.
Finally, when in Rome, throw yourself into the city. The more you do, and the more you're willing to try, the better the experience.
Acta est Fabula, Plaudite!
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Rome looks AMAZING! You have definitely inspired me to go there on my next trip!
Thank you for your kind words. I hope you love it as much as I did. Let me know if you need any further help.
Ok ok you’ve got me!! Next stop > Rome.
Wicked content Greg, keep it coming 🤪
Thanks, I’m pleased to hear you’ve found it informative. Let us know how your trip goes when you get there.