We had planned a 3-day escape to Rome to get away from our ordinary activities and get inspired by all that beauty. It was an intense and exciting trip with some main sites and some backstreets. You can't not to fall in love with the city.
We decided to get an apartment in the historical center of Rome, near the Italian Parliament, to be able to walk to all our destinations. But it was also quite easy to get a taxi with an app working just like Uber, FreeNow.
Day 1: Vatican Museums and Saint Peter's Cathedral
We started our day with a visit to the Vatican Museums. We saw some of the most iconic works of art in the world, including the Sistine Chapel and Raphael's Rooms. The problem was that we were overwhelmed by art and by the crowd, but we found for sure some pieces that were going to stay with us. We particularly loved some statues that were incredibly graceful and attractive.
Rome - Vatican Museums Sappho Roman Statue
After lunch, we headed to the nearby Saint Peter's Cathedral. This is the largest church in the world, and it is truly a sight to behold. Those ceilings are incredible creations.
Rome - Saint Peter's Cathedral - ceiling (detail)
To finish the day and to get some carbs after all this walking we had an excellent regional meal at Otello alla Concordia near the Spanish Steps, with Tonnarelli Cacio e Pepe as a main course.
Pasta Tonnarelli Cacio e Pepe
Day 2: Colosseum and Roman Forum + Shopping
No trip to Rome is complete without a visit to the Colosseum. This ancient amphitheater is one of the most iconic landmarks in the world. We booked our tickets in advance to avoid the crowds. We managed to visit the underground, which just opened a few months ago, and it was an unforgettable experience to understand how sophisticated the show was, with animals popping out from over 20 holes in the ground.
Rome - Coliseum - underground
After lunch, we headed to the Roman Forum. This was the center of the ancient Rome. It is a great place to learn about the city's history. We took our time because apart from the beauty of these buildings, we had the chance to have some incredible views of Rome.
In the afternoon, we headed to the main shopping streets of Rome. On the way, we took a look at the Vittoriale, the impressive national monument built between 1885 and 1935 to honor Victor Emmanuel II, the first king of a unified Italy. Via dei Condotti is one of the most famous shopping streets in the world, and it is home to many luxury brands. But if we were looking for something a little more unique, we headed to the Via dei Coronari and some other side streets. These charming streets have antique shops, art galleries, and smaller brands. We like to get lost and find something less mainstream. There is always something to learn.
We finished the day with a classic aperitivo dinner at Ciampini Roma, enjoying the Roman scene in a lovely square. We met our charming friend Raffaella who was carrying her velvet clutchbag with her denim outfit. Cheers!
Aperitivo with a friend in Rome
Day 3: Trastevere and Castel Sant'Angelo
Trastevere is a charming popular neighborhood located on the west bank of the Tiber River. It is a great place to find narrow cobblestone streets, lively piazzas, and delicious restaurants. We started our day with a wander around the neighborhood, and we were sure to stop for a cappuccino with a fresh croissant at one of many outdoor cafes, but we looked for one that is a pastry shop, too.
Gallia cotton canvas clutch bag on a door near Trastevere
After wandering in the area, visiting the Capo dei Fiori market, and grabbing a slice pizza on the go for lunch, we headed to Castel Sant'Angelo. This former papal fortress and jail offers an incredible history, amazing art, and stunning views of Rome. You need to walk the 5 floors to the top of the building! Just that it is worth the ticket.
Rome Castel Sant'Angelo - Feast of the Gods - Giovanni Bellini 1514
Throughout our trip to Rome, we did a lot of walking. That's why it was important to have a comfortable bag that could hold all of our essentials. We carried our convertible clutch bag in cotton with tan leather details, which was the perfect bag for this job. It is stylish, spacious, and comfortable to carry.
Time to get back to Como but we had a very good time and so many new memories! Thank you Roma!