A Day in Rome

Rome is One of the Most Popular Tourist Destinations

Italy is filled with history, yet it has only been a country for a short time. In 2011 it celebrated 150 years. A day in Rome is often experienced as regional as well as it is national. As Rome once ruled the whole of the Western World. It is important to remember that Rome is not just a place of the past, but one that lives and breathes and buzzes with Vespas in the here and now.

In the hot summer months, small shops, restaurants, and bars close anywhere between two weeks to a month. In the past few years, closing periods have been organized in shifts throughout the months of July, August, and September so that any given area will still have enough places open to satisfy tourists and locals alike.

Legends say Rome was founded by Romulus and Remus on April 21, 753 B.C.

Since that date, the city has acquired more religious monuments than any other city in Europe. The Centro Storico is a maze-like collection of ancient alleyways and Renaissance palaces with the mighty Pantheon at its center. To the south lies Rome’s ancient center, encompassing the Foro Romano and the Colosseo. Over the river lies Vatican City, where San Pietro and the Cappella Sistina are the star attractions. To the north, you’ll find the Villa Borghese, a magnificent Renaissance palace containing one of the finest private art collections in Italy. With so many gems housed in one city, you’ll find seeing it all in one visit a feat in itself. But, you can always return, for, as they say, ‘all roads lead to Rome.’

Bon Appetite

Taste it! Traditional cuisine found on the menu at any trattoria is hearty rather than overly sophisticated. They feature home cooking that is highly dependent on local produce. Pasta sauces can be pretty rich, filled with pepper, olive oil, and bacon, and smothered atop the ubiquitous spaghetti pasta. Save your appetite and make a reservation at Il Latini for several courses of meat dishes. And walk through the alleyways to find La Prociutteria, we visited this little restaurant on several occasions where we order the charcuterie and drank our beer from wine glasses. With standing-room-only and wonderful staff, it made us feel like it was our place, just one of the locals.

Giro Turistico

See it! The seven hills of Rome are where the ancient city was built and are now home to museums, parks, and monuments to the great leaders of the past.

Rome, the eternal city, boasts a storied past woven into the fabric of its iconic seven hills. Each hill holds historical significance and contributes to the city’s allure.

1. Palatine Hill: This majestic hill is the birthplace of Rome, home to the ruins of imperial palaces and stunning views of the Roman Forum.
2. Capitoline Hill: Climb to the Capitoline Square designed by Michelangelo, flanked by the Capitoline Museums, showcasing ancient Roman artifacts.
3. Aventine Hill: Discover the peaceful Orange Garden and the famous keyhole view of St. Peter’s Dome at the Priory of the Knights of Malta.
4. Esquiline Hill: Explore the grand Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore and the ancient Baths of Diocletian.
5. Caelian Hill: Stroll through charming streets and visit the well-preserved Villa Celimontana.
6. Quirinal Hill: Admire the opulent Quirinal Palace, the official residence of the Italian president.
7. Viminal Hill: Although small, it houses the Termini Train Station, Rome’s central transportation hub.

Embark on a journey through these seven hills to delve into the rich history and enduring charm of Rome.

The Capitoline Museum was my favorite—so many salvaged statues and busts of historical figures and scenes from mythical stories. The monumental remains of Constantine were enormous, it really makes you wonder how it was all done. Truly a must-see.

Discover the wine

In the enchanting city of Rome, a day spent sipping wine is a day well-lived. From quaint enotecas to bustling trattorias, the Italian capital offers a diverse range of wine experiences. Start your day with a visit to local vineyards in the nearby countryside, immersing yourself in the winemaking process. They remind me of the Hill Country back home in Texas, where the hills double as a Tuscan backdrop. Back in Rome, explore wine bars tucked into historic alleys, where sommeliers guide you through exquisite vintages. As the sun sets, join the locals in a convivial Roman-style aperitivo, raising your glass to la dolce vita. A day in Rome, drinking wine leaves indelible memories of la gioia di vivere.