When considering a destination for a short city break, think no further than Rome. Whether you seek to expand your cultural horizons, stuff your belly, or simply shop until you drop, there is no better alternative to this grand and saintly city. Think historical heirlooms, Vespa-choked streets, trickling fountains and sumptuous feasts. Then book your Cheapflights ticket to this beautiful city and peruse our picks for a weekend break…
Day One
You could do much worse than a booking at the Guesthouse Arco De’ Tolomei. Its position right at the heart of medieval Trastevere, atop an ancient Roman palazzo, marks it out as one of the more whimsical B&Bs of this romantic city. An easy-going stroll will reveal the area’s countless bars and restaurants too. Rooms come adorned with antique furniture and silk bedspreads. And the abundant Italian breakfasts are highly recommended – perfect for your arrival. (Aperitivo included, should you wish).
If you can stomach all that comes with it, you might want to consider visiting some of Rome’s classic spots – such as the Pantheon, Forum or Trevi Fountain. Needless to say, you’ll need the patience of a saint in this mostly saintly of cities, as hordes of foreigners not unlike yourself all clamber over one another to secure that perfect photographic memento.
Whether you chose to battle the crowds or merely rest, mid-evening is a call to taste Italy’s finest cuisine and legendary wine. You will be hard-pressed to find a place that serves better examples of both than at Da Enzo. Try the crema di peperoni (pasta with creamed red pepper sauce) and the traditional tiramisu. Wash both down with some of the house red while observing the local characters – most will look like they’ve been pulled right out of a Fellini film. Word of caution: don’t take offence at the brusque and surly service – if you look around everyone’s receiving it. Be brave and dish out some in return. You’ll be respected for it.
Day Two
Like all of the world’s most famous tourist attractions, the Colosseum is best-visited first-thing in the morning, when many of the bussed-in tour crowds are yet to arrive. Trust us, we should know. Skip breakfast and head on over with a single or multiple attraction ticket that you bought online well in advance, preferably arriving before the 9am opening time (and the rest of the tourists).
Having bagged one of the Roman Empire’s finest examples of architecture and engineering you’ll be hankering for brunch. Head away from the crowds to Caffeteria D’arte al Chiosco Del Bramante, where eggs, whipped into whatever shape your heart desires, will be delivered to your table faster than you can say this charming café’s name.
For some, Rome is synonymous with attitude, style, luxury and fashion. While, for others, Rome is a place of pilgrimage – the home of the Roman Catholic Church. The former should head to Via dei Condotti, Via del Corso and Viale Marconi, where Rome’s rich and fashionable vacuum-up the latest trends. The latter, meanwhile, must make their way to the Vatican City. The world’s smallest independent state by size and population is home to Catholicism’s most significant institutions and edifices, of which St. Peter’s Basilica is the most magnificent.
To top off your trip we suggest a venture up Gianicolo hill (in a taxi, should you wish) to Antico Arco – a warm and modern restaurant that’ll give you the sense of dining at home. Amble back down Via Garibaldi on your way back, making sure to take in one of Rome’s most romantic panoramas on your descent.
