People often ask me to name my favorite city, and without hesitation, Rome (Roma) always springs to mind. While picking a single favorite is tough, Rome is unquestionably in my top five. There’s something about the city—the history, the food, the people, the very soul of it—that keeps calling me back. I think I’ve been there five times now, and with each visit, I fall a little more in love. Whether I stay for five days or just two nights, the magic of Rome always manages to recharge me. With over 35 million visitors each year—some for religious pilgrimages, others simply for the love of Italy—Rome is truly a destination like no other. If you’ve never been to Italy before, let Rome be your starting point.
Now, let’s talk about landing. Rome’s main airport is about 30 minutes from the city center, so plan accordingly. Once you’re in the heart of the city, things can get overwhelming—in the best way. That’s why having a game plan is key. A huge part of that plan should include buying passes and tickets ahead of time—trust me on this one! Especially during busy travel seasons, ticket lines can be brutal, and every minute counts in a city like Rome. I’m what you’d call a super planner, and I like to organize trips four to six months in advance.
At the top of the “must-see” list is the Vatican Museum. Even if you’re not Catholic, this museum is something everyone should experience at least once. The art and history inside are breathtaking. One of the best tips I’ve discovered is booking a “private” tour—which is really a small group tour scheduled before the museum officially opens. It’s worth every penny. No crowds, no photo-bombers, just your group soaking in the beauty of each room. Plus, it comes with breakfast in the courtyard and a knowledgeable guide who brings everything to life. And while we’re on the topic, don’t hesitate to grab any available skip-the-line tickets. With over 35 million annual visitors, Rome is always bustling. You don’t want to spend your vacation standing in lines. In fact, I recommend booking Vatican Museum tickets as soon as you buy your plane ticket.
Other essential sights to add to your list: the Pantheon, Trevi Fountain, Colosseum, Spanish Steps, Castle Sant’Angelo, Victor Emmanuel Monument, and if time allows, the Medici Villa. You can easily structure your days to make the most of it. For example:
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Day 1: Vatican Museum + Castle Sant’Angelo
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Day 2: Pantheon → Trevi Fountain → Spanish Steps
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Day 3: Colosseum → Victor Emmanuel Monument
This leaves plenty of room for great meals and a little shopping. Three full days will let you hit the major sights, but if you can stretch your stay to four or five days, you’ll have more time to relax and enjoy spontaneous discoveries. Just remember: some attractions close on specific days or shut down early, and many sell out if you wait too long to book.
When it comes to food, though, I like to leave room for spontaneity. Sure, I have a few go-to restaurants, but some of the best culinary experiences come from wandering into hidden gems or finding a rooftop spot with a view. You won’t miss the gelato shops—they’re everywhere—and having two or three gelatos a day is practically a requirement. Pair that with four to six espresso shots and you’ll be living like a local. With all the walking you’ll be doing, calories don’t count.
Authentic pasta dishes in Rome are unmatched. One of my favorites is Alfredo alla Scrofa, famous for making alfredo table-side. You’ll need a reservation, though—the wait can be long. If you’re in the mood for fresh pasta, head to Osteria da Fortunata. While they don’t take reservations, it’s worth the wait to watch fresh pasta being made right in the window. Their cacio e pepe and eggplant parmesan are excellent.
As you wander the city, you’ll find charming coffee shops and decadent desserts. If you’re shopping near the Spanish Steps, stop by Antico Caffe Greco for a classy, old-world vibe. Looking for a rooftop experience? Terrazza Borromini at Eitch Borromini not only has one of the best rooftops in town, but their pasta is also phenomenal.
Speaking of Eitch Borromini, it’s our go-to hotel in Rome. Located in the heart of Piazza Navona, this boutique hotel is actually a historic site—it used to be a palace and is connected to a church and a library. As a family of four, we love that they offer spacious suites (some with terraces!). Its central location means you can walk to nearly every major attraction, and the rooftop breakfast—whether indoors or outdoors—is a real treat. Oh, and did I mention there’s a gelato shop just ten steps away?
There’s truly no shortage of things to do in Rome. Honestly, I could stay for a month and still discover something new every day. My family especially enjoys going to performances at the Teatro dell’Opera di Roma, one of the city’s beautiful old opera houses. A few years ago, I was surprised to discover how much my kids enjoyed operas and ballets, so now we make it a regular part of our itinerary. It’s such a joy to dress up and enjoy a fancy evening out as a family.
Still, one of the best experiences in Rome is simply to roam. Wander the streets, watch the people, and let the city surprise you. There’s something magical around every corner. This is just a small glimpse into what historic Rome has to offer—but trust me, it’s a city that stays with you forever.
