🔥 Hotspots

🥖 Food

Rome is world-famous for its cuisine, with dishes that cater to all tastes and budgets, from pasta and pizza to pastries and gelato.

• Roscioli Salumeria con Cucina $$$: A gourmet spot close to Campo de’ Fiori, Roscioli serves up some of the best pasta dishes, especially their Cacio e Pepe and Carbonara. It’s pricier but unforgettable.

• Da Enzo al 29 $$: Hidden in the charming Trastevere neighborhood, this trattoria serves traditional Roman dishes like Amatriciana and Saltimbocca. Expect a wait, but it’s well worth it for authentic flavors.

• Supplizio $$: A small, street-food-style spot that specializes in supplì, Rome’s famous fried rice balls filled with cheese and meat. It’s perfect for a quick, delicious snack.

• Bonci Pizzarium $$: Near the Vatican, this casual spot is ideal for pizza al taglio (pizza by the slice), with unique toppings on a crispy, airy crust.

• Trapizzino $: Try the trapizzino, a sandwich made from pizza dough filled with Roman classics like meatballs, chicken, or eggplant parmigiana. Affordable and filling, it’s a student favorite.

• Gelateria del Teatro $$: Known for its creamy, artisan gelato with flavors like pistachio and basil, this is a must-stop for anyone craving sweets.

☕️ Coffee

Coffee culture in Rome is iconic. Italians take their coffee seriously, and many of Rome’s cafes are perfect for a quick espresso or a leisurely break.

• Sant’Eustachio Il Caffè: Near the Pantheon, this historic café is famous for its signature espresso. It’s a little touristy but still worth a try for the full Italian coffee experience.

• Tazza D’Oro: Another famous coffee shop close to the Pantheon, known for its granita di caffè (iced coffee with cream). A refreshing choice on a hot day.

• Sciascia Caffè: Located in Prati, this cozy, family-owned café has been serving coffee since 1919. The espresso here is rich, and the atmosphere is vintage and charming.

• Faro – Luminari del Caffè: Known for its specialty coffee, this modern café serves a variety of brews, from espresso to pour-over. Great for those looking to experience Rome’s evolving coffee scene.

• Marigold: Located in the Testaccio neighborhood, Marigold serves some of the best coffee and pastries in a relaxed, Scandinavian-inspired atmosphere. It’s a favorite among expats and locals alike.

🍾 Going Out

Rome has a lively nightlife scene, with options ranging from bars in historic neighborhoods to modern clubs and rooftop lounges.

• Trastevere: Known for its vibrant atmosphere, this neighborhood is full of bars, pubs, and restaurants. Check out Freni e Frizioni, a lively bar with great cocktails and a cozy outdoor area.

• Campo de’ Fiori: A popular area for students, it has a mix of bars and clubs. Bar del Fico offers a more relaxed vibe, with classic cocktails and Italian wines.

• Testaccio: This neighborhood is home to some of Rome’s best clubs and dance spots, such as Goa Club. If you’re in the mood to dance, Testaccio is the place to be.

• Jerry Thomas Speakeasy: For a unique experience, try this hidden cocktail bar with a 1920s vibe. Reservations are required, and you’ll need a password to get in, but the cocktails are exceptional.

• Gianicolo Hill: Not a typical night-out spot, but a beautiful spot for a night walk with panoramic views over the city, especially beautiful at sunset.

⛰ Activities

Rome’s rich history and vibrant culture mean there’s always something to do or see, from historic sites to art museums and lush parks.

• The Colosseum: The most iconic landmark in Rome, and a must-visit. Guided tours offer a great way to understand the history, but tickets are also available for self-guided tours.

• The Vatican Museums and St. Peter’s Basilica: These are world-famous attractions with breathtaking art and architecture. Be sure to book tickets in advance, as lines can be very long.

• The Pantheon: This ancient temple-turned-church is free to visit and has an awe-inspiring domed ceiling. Try to go early in the day to avoid the crowds.

• Villa Borghese: Rome’s beautiful city park, perfect for a relaxed afternoon walk, a picnic, or a paddleboat ride on the lake. Don’t miss the Borghese Gallery if you love art.

• Roman Forum and Palatine Hill: Adjacent to the Colosseum, these ancient ruins offer a fascinating look into Roman life. It’s best to explore with a guide or an audio guide.

• Piazza Navona: One of Rome’s most famous squares, surrounded by baroque architecture and home to several stunning fountains. Great for people-watching and street performances.

🥾 Day Trips and Nature

While Rome itself is urban, there are several beautiful day trips and nature spots nearby.

• Tivoli: Known for Villa d’Este and its beautiful Renaissance gardens and fountains, Tivoli is about an hour from Rome and a wonderful escape from the city.

• Castel Gandolfo: Located on Lake Albano, this is the summer residence of the Pope and a charming spot for swimming, kayaking, and enjoying fresh air.

• Ostia Antica: Just outside Rome, these ancient ruins are reminiscent of Pompeii and make for a great day trip for history lovers.

• Appian Way Regional Park: Rent a bike and cycle along this ancient Roman road. Along the way, you’ll find ruins, catacombs, and aqueducts.

💶 Cost of Living

Rent: 

• Private rental: Renting an apartment in central Rome is expensive, with prices typically ranging between €1,000 and €2,000 per month for a one-bedroom apartment.
• Student housing: Many universities in Rome offer dorms or shared apartments for students at more affordable rates, around €400–€800 per month depending on location.

Groceries: Supermarkets like Carrefour and Coop have reasonable prices, but shopping at local markets like Mercato di Campo de’ Fiori can offer fresh produce at competitive prices. Conad is another affordable chain with locations throughout the city.

Transportation:

• Public transport: Rome’s public transport system is affordable, with a monthly student pass available for around €35. The metro, buses, and trams cover most parts of the city.
• Taxi: Taxis can be quite expensive, especially in tourist areas. Apps like Free Now make it easy to find a licensed taxi if needed.
• Train: If you plan on traveling around Italy, Rome’s Termini Station connects to most major cities, with Italo and Trenitalia offering discounted fares for students and early bookings.