This was a different kind of trip to Rome. The first three times we came we ran the tourist trail and saw all the “must-see” sights. The pull from Ancient Rome and the Vatican was powerful but we decided on this visit we would simply explore the neighborhood where we stayed.
We stayed at Le Meridian Viscont Rome in the Prati area. A 20 min walk from the Vatican and Villa Borghese. This was a very different experience from staying in the main tourist areas. Our local cafe and shops all had a much more relaxed and local vibe and we were able to have a small peak at what it might be like to be Roman. At breakfast one day we learned that an arancini ball qualifies as a “salad.” Deep-fried risotto as a salad, for breakfast. I love Rome.
We wandered, we shopped, and most importantly, we ate. I may qualify as an addict to carbonara pasta. I did my best to sample as many as possible. Fiametta was a fun attempt but Da Carlone in Trastevere was my favorite. It was not fancy but the portions were ridiculous and the preparation was perfect. We also found a fun takeaway pasta place near the Spanish Steps. Wait in line for just two choices of simple and delicious pasta for four euros!
There is something different about the gelato that is served in Italy. We ate it at every stop. Just about every day. The experience of the gelato is as important as the taste. Wandering down a side street with gelato quickly melting is part of what I long for when we are away. Our neighborhood gelato place was worth multiple visits.
One evening we went off to find a restaurant I had found on Culture Trip. We could not get in the first night and instead found Bella Napoli. It was a simple neighborhood place that welcomed us with open arms. I don’t think anyone spoke English but it didn’t matter. We did go back to find the first place Osteria Del’Angelo but did not find it to be anywhere near as enjoyable. Il Sorpasso was another fun stop where antipasti became a meal.
On our earlier trips to Rome, we were blown away by the “tourist” stops. Ancient Rome is an incredible trip 2,000 years back in time. To walk on the same streets as Julius and Augustus Cesar and to stand in the Colosseum and imagine tens of thousands of Romans cheering is an experience I would recommend to anyone.
I have a rule about avoiding churches when traveling. I have simply seen enough. Since I break most rules…climb up into the dome of St. Peters. It is a very cool experience. The history, art, and architecture in St. Peters are without a doubt some of the best in the world.
Rome is a city of many small neighborhoods all built around some of our world’s greatest treasures. I look forward to many trips back.
