A Guide to Rome

Spanish Steps

A trip to Rome wouldn’t be the same without a walk up the 135 Spanish Steps, toward the glimmering, white Trinità Dei Monti church. Designed by the architects Francesco de Sanctis and Alessandro Specchi, these remarkable steps offer you breathtaking views of the rest of Rome. A great time to go is in the evening, as you’ll get to enjoy the twinkling of the city’s lights from above. It’s still beautiful during the day, so be sure to take the time to pose for a photo beside the Fontana Della Barcaccia, the half-sunken ship-shaped fountain at the base of the steps.

St. Peter's Basilica

Located in the stunning Vatican City, St. Peter’s Basilica is the largest church in the world, and a prime example of renaissance architecture. Designed by a handful of famous architects, including Michelangelo and Donato Bramante, the church has been lavishly decorated inside and out, providing visitors with a one-off experience. Tip-toe along the marble floors, admire the central feature of Gian Lorenzo Bernini’s black and bronze baldachin, and explore the church’s fantastic sculptures – a particular favourite amongst visitors is Michelangelo’s Pietá, an enchanting work of art that depicts Mary cradling an ailing Jesus Christ.

Villa Borghese Gardens

If you fancy getting away from the lively streets of Rome for a moment, then make your way over to the Villa Borghese Gardens, for the perfect retreat. Enjoy a stroll along the lake and take the time to admire the towering Temple of Aesculapius, which overlooks it. On a sunny day, spend your time revelling in the scent of the stunning flowers and relaxing under the shade of the trees. 

The Villa Borghese Gardens are also home to the Galleria Borghese, which houses plenty of captivating artwork. So, if you’re a fan of art, be sure not to miss out on a chance to explore this splendid collection.

Perfect pit-stops

You’re bound to need a break from all the sightseeing at some point, and a great place to unwind is the super-trendy bar, Freni e Frizioni. Celebrate your holiday with great-tasting cocktails, and snack on slices of freshly baked focaccia and pasta dishes. If you want the full Italian experience, then pay a visit to Pinsere Roma, a traditional Roman restaurant that serves up mouth-watering pizzas and spaghetti – perfect for when those lunchtime hunger pangs hit. 

Rome can get pretty warm too, so if you’re looking for a place to chill-out (quite literally), then make sure you stop by Hedera for some delicious, Italian ice-cream. Instead of the usual ice-cream in a cone, you can enjoy this delicious treat on top of a range of things, including brioche and sweet, cannelloni twirls.