Giolitti, Rome’s oldest ice cream parlor, is a must-visit for any sweet tooth. This beloved spot has been serving up delightful treats since the early 1900s, and its gelato is a favorite among locals and tourists alike. From classic cones to decadent ice cream cakes, Giolitti has something for everyone. And if you’re looking for something a bit more traditional, try their confectionary delights like pastries or cassatas.
Opening Hours: 7:00 AM to 1:00 AM, every day.
A Journey Through Modern Art: MAXXI
While Rome is renowned for its ancient wonders, it also embraces contemporary art at the MAXXI, or the National Museum of the 21st Century Arts. This modern museum showcases the best of architecture and art.
Step into the world of architectural history with displays of unique structures, documents, and photographs by renowned architects and photographers like Carlo Scarpa, Pier Luigi Nervi, Enrico Del Debbio, and Olivo Barberi.
Don’t miss the dedicated art section featuring paintings, sculptures, and video art from the 1960s to the 2000s, created by Italian and international artists like Alighiero Boetti, Francesco Clemente, William Kentridge, and Mario Merz.
Opening Hours: Closed on Mondays. Open from 11:00 AM to 7:00 PM, every other day.
Beach Bliss Just Beyond the City Walls
Escape the hustle and bustle of Rome for a day of relaxation at one of the stunning beaches just a short drive away. The coastal towns of Santa Marinella, Fregene, and Cerveteri offer pristine white sand beaches perfect for a leisurely picnic.
Best Time to Visit: April to May or September to November.
Whizzing Through History: A Vespa Tour of Rome
For a truly authentic Roman experience, hop on a Vespa and explore the city’s iconic streets. Scooterama offers a variety of guided tours, from the classic tour showcasing the city’s main attractions to the cinema lovers’ tour that takes you to filming locations of iconic movies. You can even customize your tour based on your interests and timeframe.
Opening Hours: 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM, every day.
Uncovering Rome’s Hidden Gems with Imago Artis
Rome’s beauty goes beyond its famous landmarks. With Imago Artis tours, you can delve deeper and explore the hidden wonders of this historic city. Enjoy exclusive access to places typically off-limits to the public, including the basements of ancient noble houses, a museum of ancient ruins, and the gardens of the Knight of Malta.
Opening Hours: 8:30 AM to 8:30 PM, every day.
Walking in the Footsteps of Cinematic Legends: Via Margutta
Rome’s streets are imbued with the cinematic spirit of the Italian Neorealist movement. Take a stroll down Via Margutta, the cobbled street that was home to renowned director Frederico Fellini and featured in the classic film “Roman Holiday.”
Continue your cinematic journey to Piazza di Spagna, another famous location featured in films like “The Talented Mr. Ripley” and “Roman Holiday.”
Best Time to Visit: Year-round.
Sculptures Amidst Industrial Charm: The Museum of Centrale Montemartini
Escape the traditional museum setting at the Museum of Centrale Montemartini, where ancient sculptures are showcased amidst the captivating backdrop of industrial machinery. Marvel at the museum’s collection of Greek and Roman statues, busts, and friezes, including the bust of Hera Borghese and the sculpture of Orpheus with his animals.
Opening Hours: Closed on Mondays. Open from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM, every other day.
Entry Fee: Free on the first Sunday of every month.
Feline Friends in the Footsteps of Caesar: The Largo di Torre Argentina Cat Sanctuary
Step into history at Largo di Torre Argentina, the site where Julius Caesar was assassinated. While the site is off-limits to the public, it has become a haven for Rome’s stray cats. The southwest corner of the Largo has been transformed into a sanctuary where these feline friends are fed, cared for, and eventually given up for adoption. With nearly 150 cats, this sanctuary is a must-visit for animal lovers.
Best Time to Visit: Year-round.
A Stroll Through History: The Appian Antica
Embrace the grandeur of the Appian Way, also known as the Appian Antica, considered Rome’s most important road. Built in 312 BC, this historical route connected Rome to the rest of Italy and served as a vital network for trade and transportation.
Today, the Appian Antica is a picturesque promenade lined with greenery. As you stroll along this scenic path, explore the historical sites that dot its sides, including the Catacombs of St Sebastian, the Vigna Randanini, the Jewish catacombs, the Circus of Maxentius, and the Tomb of Caecilia Metella.
A Secret Passage Through History: The Passetto di Borgo
Venture into the hidden passageway of Passetto di Borgo in the city of Borgo. This secret route links the Vatican City to Castel Sant’Angelo and served as an escape route for several Popes. Discover the history of this passage, including how Pope Alexander used it to escape the Roman invasion in 1494.
