Ciao, amici! This week in Rome, from July 22nd to 28th, the Eternal City is absolutely buzzing under the warm summer sky. Get ready for enchanting evenings, vibrant festivals along the Tiber, and countless opportunities to soak up la dolce vita. The city is alive with a special glow, perfect for exploring ancient wonders and discovering hidden gems.
Escape the city heat with a leisurely walk or bike ride through the sprawling gardens of Villa Borghese. You can rent a bike and explore the picturesque paths, discover hidden fountains, and enjoy panoramic views of Rome from the Pincio Terrace. It's a true urban oasis.
Tip: Head to the Pincio Terrace just before sunset for breathtaking views over Piazza del Popolo and beyond – it's magical and perfect for photos.
Experience ancient Roman history in the cooler evening hours by taking an e-bike tour along the Appian Way. You'll cycle past ancient aqueducts, Roman ruins, and explore eerie catacombs, making for a fascinating and active historical adventure.
Tip: Book an evening tour to avoid the midday sun and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere as dusk settles over the ancient Roman countryside.
The banks of the Tiber River transform into a lively summer festival called Lungo il Tevere. Running throughout July, this pop-up village offers open-air bars, street food stalls, artisan markets, and entertainment, stretching from Piazza Trilussa to Ponte Sublicio.
Tip: Wander through the stalls after dark when the lights create a magical atmosphere. It's perfect for a casual dinner or an aperitivo with friends by the river.
For an authentic taste of Roman cuisine, head to this beloved trattoria in Trastevere. Da Enzo al 29 is a local institution known for its classic pasta dishes like Carbonara and Cacio e Pepe, served in a charming, bustling atmosphere.
Tip: They don't take reservations, so arrive early (before 7:30 PM) or be prepared to wait in line with the locals – it's worth every minute!
Located in the Testaccio neighborhood, Flavio al Velavevodetto is another Roman gem celebrated for its traditional dishes. Their tonnarelli cacio e pepe is legendary, and you can even peek at ancient Roman amphorae through glass walls in the dining room.
Tip: Don't miss the 'polpette di bollito' (slow-cooked savory meatballs) if they're on the menu – a true Roman specialty!
For a vibrant, no-frills Roman pizza experience, Pizzeria Da Remo in Testaccio is the place to be. It's a bustling spot where you can enjoy thin-crust Roman-style pizzas cooked in a wood-fired oven alongside a lively local crowd.
Tip: Embrace the energetic, somewhat 'brash' service – it's all part of the authentic Roman charm here. Go late for a truly local vibe.
Dive into Rome's street food scene at the Mercato di Testaccio. This vibrant market offers an incredible array of fresh produce, gourmet ingredients, and fantastic street food vendors serving everything from trapizzino to traditional Roman sandwiches.
Tip: Look for the 'Mordi e Vai' stand for some of the best Roman street food sandwiches you'll ever taste.
Witness spectacular opera, ballet, and concerts amidst the majestic ruins of the Baths of Caracalla. This festival offers a truly unique and unforgettable open-air cultural experience throughout July. This week, you can catch 'Aida' on July 26th and Patti Smith on July 27th.
Tip: Dress smartly but comfortably, and bring a light shawl as the evenings can get a bit breezy in the ancient outdoor setting.
Enjoy stunning panoramic views of Rome's skyline from the elegant Notos Rooftop at Six Senses. This urban garden offers Mediterranean coastal cuisine, signature cocktails, and often features live music sessions and DJ sets as day melts into evening.
Tip: Make a reservation, especially if you want a prime spot to watch the sunset paint the Eternal City in golden hues.
Experience Rome like a local at Il Cinema in Piazza, a free open-air cinema festival. Screenings are held in various locations like Piazza San Cosimato in Trastevere and Parco degli Acquedotti throughout July, showing a mix of international and Italian films in original language with subtitles.
Tip: Arrive early to grab a good spot, bring a blanket or cushion for comfort, and enjoy a truly Roman summer evening under the stars.
The Roma Summer Fest at the Auditorium Parco della Musica continues this week, offering a diverse program of concerts. On Friday, July 26th, you can enjoy 'Eri con me – Alice canta Battiato'.
Tip: Check the schedule online and consider booking tickets in advance, as popular acts can sell out quickly.
Immerse yourself in contemporary art with the 'Around Rome' exhibition, which opened on July 6th and is spread across five prestigious Roman locations, including the Arte Borgo Gallery. This initiative aims to foster a dialogue between contemporary art and Rome's rich history.
Tip: Visit one of the lesser-known venues like the Galleria della Biblioteca Angelica for a quieter, more intimate viewing experience.
Delve into the fascinating history of colored marble at the Capitoline Museums' exhibition 'The Colors of Antiquity'. This display offers a comprehensive overview of how colored marble was used from ancient times to the 20th century, with over 660 precious pieces.
Tip: Combine your visit with a trip to the Capitoline Museums' permanent collection for an even deeper dive into Rome's incredible heritage.
Experience the grandeur of the Colosseum in a whole new light with a special evening tour. These exclusive tours allow you to explore the ancient arena under the stars, away from the daytime crowds and heat, offering a more intimate and atmospheric understanding of its history.
Tip: Book well in advance as these night tours are very popular and offer a truly unique perspective of this iconic monument.
Visit the MAXXI Museum to see the 'Environments by Women Artists' exhibition, which runs until October 20th, 2024. This exhibition features immersive works by female artists from 1956 to 2010, designed to be 'activated by audience interaction'.
Tip: Check for any special events or guided tours related to the exhibition to gain a deeper understanding of the artists' visions.
Step inside one of Rome's most awe-inspiring ancient structures, the Pantheon, which remains free to enter. Marvel at its perfectly preserved dome and oculus, a testament to Roman engineering and architectural genius.
Tip: Visit early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid the largest crowds and fully appreciate its serene beauty.
Discover Rome's secrets and stories with a free walking tour. There are various options available, covering areas like Piazza del Popolo, Castel Sant'Angelo, and the charming streets of Trastevere, often led by enthusiastic local guides.
Tip: While the tours are free, it's customary and appreciated to tip your guide at the end, especially if you enjoyed their insights.
July marks the start of Rome's summer sales, or 'saldi', offering fantastic discounts of 30-70% on fashion, accessories, and more across the city. It's the perfect opportunity to find authentic Italian style at a great price.
Tip: Head to Via del Corso for major brands or explore the charming boutiques in Monti for unique finds.
Perched on the Aventine Hill, the Orange Garden offers a peaceful escape and one of the most romantic panoramic views of Rome, including St. Peter's Basilica. It's a serene spot, perfect for a quiet moment or a picnic.
Tip: Before leaving, peek through the 'Keyhole of Rome' at the nearby Priory of the Knights of Malta for a perfectly framed view of St. Peter's Dome.
Villa Borghese offers ample space for families to enjoy. Rent a rowboat on the lake, let the kids run free in the playgrounds, or simply have a picnic on the grass. There's plenty of room for everyone to relax and play.
Tip: Look for the small amusement park, Casina di Raffaello, which often has activities specifically for younger children.
Let your kids' imaginations run wild as they explore the towering ancient Roman aqueducts in the Parco degli Acquedotti. It's a vast park perfect for running around, and during July, it hosts free outdoor cinema screenings which can be a fun family evening.
Tip: Bring plenty of water and snacks, and maybe even a frisbee or ball for some extra fun amongst the historical marvels.
Engage the whole family in a deliciously fun gelato-making class. Learn the secrets behind Italy's famous frozen treat and get to enjoy your own creations. It's an interactive and tasty way to immerse yourselves in Italian culture.
Tip: Look for classes that are specifically designed for families or that offer a kid-friendly approach to the art of gelato.
Explora, the Children's Museum of Rome, offers a fantastic hands-on learning experience for kids of all ages. With interactive exhibits focused on science, society, and the environment, it’s a place where children can learn and play freely.
Tip: Book your tickets online in advance to secure your preferred time slot, as it can get busy, especially on weekends.
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