Food, shopping, wellness, nightlife & luxury experiences in Rome
The best places to eat in Rome — from street food to fine dining
A classic Trastevere trattoria serving authentic Roman dishes like Cacio e Pepe, Carbonara, and Amatriciana in a bustling, no-frills atmosphere. Expect a wait, but it's worth it.
A historic Roman pizzeria famous for its thin-crust, wood-fired pizzas. Always busy, with a lively atmosphere and quick service.
Inventive street food combining pizza bianca with traditional Roman fillings like Coda alla Vaccinara (oxtail stew) or Pollo alla Cacciatora (hunter's chicken). Perfect for a quick, delicious bite.
While it can lean mid-range for a full meal, their deli counter offers incredible sandwiches and platters of cured meats and cheeses that are perfect for a budget-friendly gourmet lunch. Also a fantastic bakery next door.
A beloved, traditional Roman trattoria right by the Pantheon, known for its classic pasta dishes and friendly service. Reservations are essential, often weeks in advance.
Located in Testaccio, this restaurant is built into Monte Testaccio (an ancient shard hill), offering a unique ambiance. Famous for its authentic Roman cuisine, especially Cacio e Pepe and Carbonara.
An iconic Roman restaurant, particularly famous for its Tonnarelli Cacio e Pepe, prepared tableside. A more refined, yet still traditional, dining experience. Book well in advance.
Rome's only 3-Michelin-starred restaurant, offering unparalleled fine dining with breathtaking panoramic views of the city. Chef Heinz Beck's innovative Mediterranean cuisine is an experience of a lifetime.
A 1-Michelin-starred restaurant atop the iconic Hotel Hassler, offering exquisite Italian cuisine with a modern twist and spectacular views of the Spanish Steps and city skyline.
A 1-Michelin-starred restaurant with an unforgettable view of the Colosseum. Chef Giuseppe di Iorio crafts contemporary Roman dishes using high-quality ingredients, paired with an extensive wine list.
Fried rice balls, typically filled with tomato sauce, rice, and a piece of mozzarella, which melts to form a 'surprise' (supplì al telefono) when pulled apart.
Pizza by the slice, often sold by weight, with various toppings. Perfect for a quick, customizable snack.
A triangular pocket of pizza bianca bread filled with slow-cooked Roman stews and traditional fillings.
Sweet, soft buns sliced open and generously filled with freshly whipped cream. A delightful breakfast or afternoon treat.
Savoury, fatty, and moist boneless pork roast, typically seasoned with garlic, rosemary, and wild fennel. Often served in a panino (sandwich).
Fried zucchini flowers, often stuffed with mozzarella and sometimes anchovies. A crispy, savoury delight.
Deep-fried salted cod fillet, a Roman specialty, especially around Jewish Ghetto.
Artisanal Italian ice cream, made with natural ingredients. Look for 'gelateria artigianale' and avoid brightly coloured, piled-high gelato.
A vibrant, modern market housed in a contemporary building, offering everything from fresh produce, meats, cheeses, and fish to excellent prepared foods, street food stalls, and artisanal products.
Rome's most famous outdoor market, operating since 1869. Known for fresh fruits, vegetables, spices, olive oils, and local specialties. It's lively and picturesque, though now more tourist-focused.
One of Rome's largest and most authentic local markets, located near the Vatican. Over 270 stalls selling fresh produce, meat, fish, cheese, and household goods. A true Roman experience.
A bustling multicultural market, reflecting the diverse population of the Esquilino neighborhood. You'll find exotic spices, international ingredients, and fresh produce alongside Italian staples.
Learn to make traditional Italian pasta (like fettuccine and ravioli) and tiramisu from scratch with a local chef. Includes a meal with wine and appetizers.
Combine a food market tour in Testaccio with a hands-on cooking class where you prepare a full Roman meal, including an appetizer, pasta, and dessert. Enjoy your creations with local wine.
Where to shop in Rome — districts, markets, and bargains
The main artery for high-street fashion, international brands, and mid-range boutiques. Branches off into side streets with more unique shops.
Rome's most exclusive shopping district, home to luxury fashion houses like Gucci, Prada, Louis Vuitton, and Bulgari. Window shopping is an experience in itself.
A popular shopping street in the Prati neighborhood, offering a mix of Italian boutiques, chain stores, and department stores like Coin. Less touristy than Via del Corso.
Rome's largest and most famous flea market, open every Sunday. You can find everything from antiques, vintage clothing, and second-hand goods to household items and souvenirs. Be prepared to haggle and watch your belongings.
An urban market featuring independent designers, artisans, and vintage sellers. Great for unique clothing, jewelry, accessories, and art. Operates on select weekends.
While primarily a food market, some stalls sell flowers, kitchenware, and small souvenirs. Better for a general market experience than serious shopping.
A smaller, more curated flea market focusing on vintage and designer second-hand clothing, bags, and accessories. A good spot for fashion finds. Operates on Sundays.
Authentic keepsakes and what to avoid
High-quality leather bags, wallets, belts, and shoes made in Italy. Look for 'Vera Pelle' (genuine leather) labels.
Extra virgin olive oil from Lazio or surrounding regions. Visit specialty food shops or markets for small, local producers.
A hard, salty sheep's milk cheese, essential for many Roman pasta dishes. Buy a wedge from a local deli or market.
Beautifully crafted plates, bowls, and decorative items, often featuring traditional Italian designs. Look for artisan workshops.
A classic Bialetti Moka Express or a stylish alternative to brew authentic Italian coffee at home.
Explore wines from the Lazio region, such as Frascati, Cesanese del Piglio, or Est! Est!! Est!!! di Montefiascone. Visit an enoteca (wine shop).
Style hotspots in Rome
The heart of Roman haute couture, featuring flagship stores of international luxury brands like Gucci, Prada, Fendi, Valentino, Bulgari, and more.
A bustling street catering to a wider audience with popular international and Italian chain stores such as Zara, H&M, Benetton, and numerous other mid-range fashion retailers.
Located in the Prati district, this street offers a mix of established Italian brands, local boutiques, and department stores like Coin, providing a more local and slightly less hectic shopping experience.
Relax and rejuvenate in Rome
A luxurious thermal spa resort located just outside the city, offering a wide range of pools, saunas, steam baths, and relaxation areas amidst ancient Roman ruins. Perfect for a day trip to unwind.
An authentic Turkish bath experience in the heart of Rome's Jewish Ghetto. Offers traditional hammam rituals, massages, and a serene, atmospheric environment.
A high-end spa within the elegant St. Regis hotel, offering personalized treatments, a fitness center, and a luxurious environment for ultimate relaxation.
A large urban wellness center with a comprehensive spa area, including pools, saunas, Turkish baths, and a variety of beauty and massage treatments. Good value for a city spa.
After dark in Rome
A popular, lively bar in Trastevere, famous for its elaborate aperitivo buffet (included with your drink purchase) and creative cocktails. Always packed with a young, international crowd.
Rome's original speakeasy, hidden behind an unmarked door. Requires a password (found online) and membership (one-time fee). Offers meticulously crafted, high-quality cocktails in an intimate, retro setting.
A chic cocktail bar overlooking Piazza di Pietra and the ancient Temple of Hadrian. Known for its stylish crowd, excellent drinks, and trendy atmosphere. Great for people-watching.
Rome's premier opera house, hosting world-class opera, ballet, and classical music performances in a grand setting. Check the schedule for upcoming shows.
A modern complex designed by Renzo Piano, featuring three concert halls and an outdoor amphitheater. Hosts a wide range of music genres, from classical to jazz, rock, and pop, as well as cultural events.
Splurge-worthy experiences in Rome
Experience the Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel, and St. Peter's Basilica with a private expert guide, often before or after public hours, ensuring an intimate and comprehensive visit without crowds.
Indulge in a multi-course tasting menu at one of Rome's acclaimed Michelin-starred restaurants, such as La Pergola or Aroma, offering exquisite cuisine, impeccable service, and often stunning views.
A personalized shopping experience with a private stylist or simply browsing the flagship stores of world-renowned fashion houses like Fendi, Gucci, Prada, and Valentino.
While not Venice, some private operators offer romantic gondola-style rides on the Tiber River, offering a unique perspective of Rome's bridges and waterfront architecture.
Spend a day unwinding at a luxury hotel spa like Iridium Suites Spa at The St. Regis Rome or The Eden Spa, enjoying bespoke treatments, thermal pools, and serene relaxation areas.
Best cafes and coffee spots in Rome
Famous for its unique, frothy, and slightly sweetened espresso. A Roman institution, always bustling with locals and tourists alike.
Just steps from the Pantheon, this historic coffee bar is renowned for its granita di caffè con panna (coffee slush with whipped cream) and strong, aromatic espresso.
An elegant pastry shop and cafe offering exceptional coffee, exquisite pastries, and traditional Roman sweets, including their famous maritozzi.
A stylish and cozy cafe near Campo de' Fiori, popular for its specialty coffee, delicious brunch options, and excellent cocktails in the evening. Great for a longer sit-down.
One of Rome's pioneering specialty coffee shops, offering expertly prepared pour-overs, cold brews, and single-origin espressos. A haven for coffee connoisseurs.
A beloved, no-frills, old-school bar in Trastevere. Famous for its cheap coffee, cold beers, and authentic local atmosphere. Perfect for people-watching.