Rome is truly like no other city I have ever seen before. I know travel bloggers tend to make that claim about almost every city they see but it is really not a lie when I say this about Rome. I visited Italy during the summer of 2024 and went to several cities like Florence, Venice, and Positano but no city managed to enthrall me the way Rome did. We were in Rome for a mere 3 days but it left a very long-lasting impression on me.
Before the trip, I scoured countless blogs, Instagram reels, and TikTok videos for things to do and see in Rome besides the obvious. We did not quite manage to fit it all in the 3 days we were there; so instead of letting my hours of research go to waste, I present to you:
My guide to Rome - Beyond the Colosseum and the Pantheon.
NEIGHBOURHOODS AND AREAS TO VISIT
1 - Trastevere (pronounced trasté-véré)
If you, like me, love those funky, bohemian vibes, then this neighbourhood is perfect for you. This area may be a bit far from the colosseum, and trevi fountain areas but it is absolutely worth it.
This area, across the Tiber River, will make you feel like a true local, with its trattorias, pubs, and artisan cafes. You will not find many tourists in these cobbled, winding alleys, instead you will see the local Romans going about their everyday lives.
2 - Piazza Trilussa
This little Piazza in the Trastevere neighbourhood may seem like any other during the day. But, at night, it is packed with musicians and bands playing live music, with people dancing right in the square and loudly singing along to the music. You get the feel of being at a concert for free, with a gorgeous view of the Tiber River.
3 - Porta Portese
Rome’s biggest open-air flea market is just a 20 min walk from Piazza Trilussa. You can find a large variety of products here, even antiques and vintage clothes. This is a weekly morning market with many food vendors as well. The vibe of this market instantly takes you back to ancient Roman times with all its various sounds, colours, etc.
4 - Villa Borghese
This gorgeous landscape garden is the third largest public one in Rome. One entrance to this park is very close to the Spanish Steps.
Access is free and the place is open every day from dawn to dusk. This is not an ordinary garden with just some trees and walkways, but is filled with historical landmarks, multiple museums, a zoo, theatres, cafes, restaurants and so much more!
5 - Via del Corso
If all the high-end luxury boutique stores near the Spanish Steps got you looking at your wallet in despair, then never fear. A 7 min walk from the Spanish Steps and all your shopping dreams will come true. This is the longest shopping street in Rome. It is lined with your go-to stores like H&M, Zara, Sephora, Uniqlo, as well as luxury outlets. From my personal experience H&M Rome had some really good selections at not-too expensive prices. Fulfill all your fashion desires on this street so you can go back and flaunt your “Italian” clothes.
6 - Piazza Navona
A 12 min walk from Via del Corso is this square filled with artists and many cafes. It also has giant sculptures that have a lovely water fountain flowing through them.
This square with its musicians, portrait artists and lively atmosphere will make you feel like you are in a romcom movie.
7 - Campo dei Fiori
This literally translates to ‘field of flowers’. Close to Piazza Navona, this morning market runs every Monday-Saturday from 7am to 2pm. It is very lively and colourful during these times, filled with fresh flowers, vegetables, fruits, and herbs. Take a stroll here and feel like a local.
8 - Monti Neighbourhood
This is known as the artsy neighbourhood among the locals. It is filled with boutiques, vintage shops, and cozy wine bars giving it a very movie set feel. It is a great nightlife destination and great place to just enjoy the buzzing vibe and take a break from the countless historical sights.
BONUS: Gelateria Della Palma
An ice-cream shop just 3 mins from the Pantheon sports 150 flavours of gelato (yes, actually 150!) for you to choose from. They have the most interesting and unique options to meet even the most niche cravings. An absolute must-visit.
So, now that you have my whole guide for ‘Rome – Beyond the Colosseum and Pantheon’, what’s stopping you? Go plan your trip today.
