How to Fall in Love with Rome

Stop by for a cocktail at the legendary Harry’s Bar on Via Vittorio Veneto.  The bar that featured in Federico Fellini’s classic 1960 film La Dolce Vita still evokes a sense of the good old days with its lavish decor and gentle piano music. Don’t expect ‘happy hour’ prices, but one drink won’t break the bank.

Sweet tooth? Cioccolata calda are the magic words you need to remember.  Grab a warming cup of this thick hot chocolate at  Sant ‘Eustachio  Il Caffé on Piazza Sant Eustachio or Grom on via Giubbonari.

For some of the best gelato in town, head to Come Il Latte on Via Silvio Spaventa or Il Gelato di San Crispino on Via della Panetteria.

Cross the Tiber river to the honey-coloured Trastevere neighbourhood. Follow the cobblestone pathways that wind through Trastevere’s ivy-clad trattorias, wander through narrow streets filled with colourful washing lines and religious shrines, before dropping in for a bite to eat at the tiny, but charming Da Vittorio (via di San Cosimato 14)  where they even take requests for heart-shaped pizzas…

Just a short walk from the famous Bocca della Verita sculpture, you’ll come to a small road called Clivio dei Publici which continues into Via di Santa Sabina. This quiet, residential area is home to one of Rome’s most enduring attractions – the gate that leads to the headquarters of the Knights of Malta.  So far, so ordinary. But it’s what’s through the keyhole of this gate that draws gasps from the queues of curious visitors.  Wait your turn, close one eye and take a good look.  The most beautiful view of Saint Peter’s Basilica framed by a rose garden will appear before your very eyes. Bellissima.

Thanks to countless movie appearances, the Trevi Fountain is one of Rome’s most iconic landmarks. Clichéd? Yes. But when in Rome…you’ve got to throw a coin into the Trevi fountain. More than one if you like –  according to tradition, one coin ensures a return trip, two coins promises romance and three coins equals marriage. While you’re here, look for the miniature fountain on the left hand side – legend has it that couples who drink from it are destined to be together forever.

Flights to Rome

-Fiona Hilliard