Must-sees of Rome Part #1
by Local Host
Get off the beaten path on your Rome vacation with these must-see local sites.
The Terrace at Hotel Eden
Hollywood’s home in Rome is the Hotel Eden in via Ludovisi. Since it’s reopening in 1994, several of Tinsel Town’s “A-list” have stayed in its glorious surrounds. For drinks in the evening, the Terrace offers some best views in the city and, perchance, a star sighting or two.
Via dei Cestari
This street is the holy equivalent of Rodeo Drive. Often filled with nuns and priests window-shopping, it is an offbeat look into the clerical world you won’t find at the Vatican. It’s also the perfect place to stock up on nuns thermals, which we hear are perfect for skiing.
Viterbo Thermal Springs
About 80km from Rome lies Viterbo, the “Pope’s city.” Here you can escape to a collection of thermal springs and soak away any sightseer’s soreness from your limbs. It’s a lovely daytrip and a welcome reward.
Maria della Concezione Cappuccin Crypt
The namesakes of our favorite frothy java drink also had some interesting ideas when it came to decorating. The walls of this tiny church are lined with the skulls and bones of monks long past their days of duty. The faint of heart need not enter.
Trastevere
By day, flags of freshly strung laundry decorate the labyrinthine alleyways of this bustling neighborhood. But when the sun sets, Trastevere comes to life. Follow young Romans ready for a good time to Il Giardino dei Ciliegi for drinks, conversation and Italian table games.
Borghese Gallery and Il Lago delle Tartarughe
Contemplate Bernini’s elaborate marble sculptures and Caravaggio’s chiaroscuro masterpieces in this palatial estate. Wander to nearby “Turtle Lake” and rent a small rowboat to practice the Italian art of dolce far niente - the sweetness of doing nothing.
On your travels to Rome, what not-to-miss attractions or places of interest do you recommend?
Check back on Monday for Part #2 of our Rome not-to-be-missed sights.
January 8th, 2009 at 9:28 am
When I lived in Rome for a summer, one of my favorite spots to visit was the Basilica San Clemente, on via Labincana. It is actually three different historical locations all in the same spot. At the top, the Basilica is is from the 12th Century, which is beautiful enough in itself as an architectural gem. But visitors are able to go down below the church to see the original 4th Century Basilica directly underneath. What makes this site even more unreal is that you can travel even one level lower to visit the original streets of Rome from the First Century. Their website gives some great pictures: http://www.basilicasanclemente.com
February 24th, 2009 at 8:35 pm
In addition to the classic tradition of Renaissance art and architecture and Roman antiquities Italy offers fantastic opportunities for those interested in food, wine, music (opera anyone), or walking trails in the hills of Tuscany or Umbria.
December 19th, 2009 at 11:50 am
Thank you for the time you spent on this post. Know that your work is much appreciated. Keep it up!