Rome Done Right

Nothing will quite compare to the first time you see the Vatican in all its magnificent glory. The spiritual essence combined with the once-in-a-lifetime architecture and art is a life-changing experience. Whether you are religious or not, the Vatican is not to be missed. It’s truly what they say it is and more.

As much as I would like to suggest a fancy museum or a fun adventure, there is nothing that sets the soul on fire quite like strolling through the crowded, bustling streets of Roma. If you’re lucky, you may get to witness young artists singing their hearts out with a crowd swaying to the sounds. Maybe you’ll casually skip past the Trevi, an indulgent gelato in hand while a cooling evening wind breezes past. Or, you’ll circle the Piazza della Rotonda, watching as street performers make passersby laugh with the Pantheon casually sitting as a backdrop.

If you’re feeling particularly touristy, you can hop on a golf-cart tour of the city and see Rome through the eyes of a local. This might be “touristy,” but there’s something to be said for driving through the Eternal City and seeing some of the richest history in the world with a breeze in your hair and unbound by traffic.

Our go-to spot for a no-frills, always perfect meal is Agrodolce. This spot is so quaint and hidden that the first time we visited, we couldn’t find it and we were late to our reservation. They serve up the Roman classics, and of the many, many times we’ve been, they have never served a bad meal.

For a perfect gelato, venture out to Frigidarium. Don’t miss out on getting it dipped in chocolate—I prefer white—for a little extra indulgence.

Another spot for a classic Roman meal that never fails is Da Enzo. SInce this spot doesn’t take reservations and has only grown in popularity, you have to get there early and snag a spot in line. It’s worth it for the best carbonara I’ve had in Rome.

An amazing spot to fuel up on a meal post-Vatican is a charming little spot off the beaten path. About a 20-minute walk from St. Peter’s square takes you to a spot that is as local as it gets: La Fraschetta Romanesca. Be sure to try my favorite tiramisu in all of Rome!

Our favorite treat in Rome has to be a pistachio (pronounced: pee-stack-ee-oh) cornetto. My mouth is watering just thinking about it! Stop by L’Antico Forno right beside the Trevi and be sure to savor it with a delicious espresso. Pro tip: Skip the long line for the café seating and head to the back of the little market to purchase some to go.