The 20 Most Romantic Places in Rome

UPDATED JULY 2024
By Megan Hills

Soak up the romance in the Eternal City with our guide to the most romantic places in Rome!

With heaps of romantic places to share with your loved one, Rome is the perfect mix of greenery, history and radiant sunsets. Beautiful architecture lines the streets while hidden cafés nestle under arches and between historic buildings. If you’re looking for a European destination to explore with your partner, Rome is the perfect place to go. The team at the OMNIA Vatican & Rome Pass have put together this handy guide to help you dial up the romance.

Explore the Villa Borghese Gardens

Head over to the beautiful gardens of Villa Borghese for a romantic stroll or a quiet picnic in the lush greenery. Villa Borghese was built in the 17th century and now houses the largest private art collection in the world. The gardens themselves offer a small lake with rowing boats for hire and a small zoo; bike rental is also popular. Make sure you don’t miss the Temple of Aesculapius by the small pond, which is particularly tranquil.

The best of the first day 🏛⛲️Terrazza del Pincio, 6 agosto 2018

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The Pincio Gardens

Stroll across the pedestrian bridge within the Borghese Gardens to discover the Pincio Gardens that neighbour the park. There are beautiful views from the terrace at the Piazzale Napoleone I, particularly at sunset – well worth the climb up the hill.

Horse-drawn carriages

What could be more romantic than touring the ancient streets of Rome in a horse-drawn carriage? The carriages are called Botticella (meaning small barrel) and there is a choice of tour routes taking in famous monuments including the Coliseum, Circus Maximus and the Trevi fountain.

The great beauty #rome #rivertiber #italy #cloudlovers

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Cruise the Tiber

Cruise down the river Tiber on a boat tour for a different view of the city and take in the wonderful surroundings with your favourite person. There are cruises with live music, drinks and/or food as well as hop-on-hop-off options.

Explore Vatican City

Be inspired by the Vatican Museums – 1400 rooms containing art and artefacts from over 3,000 years of Roman history. Not to forget the Sistine Chapel, that attracts more than 5 million visitors a year (equal to the population of Norway). Advance booking and tickets with fast-track entry are advised, but it’s a real must-visit.

St Peter’s Basilica

Also part of the Vatican, St Peter’s is one of the holiest Catholic churches in the world and a beautiful example of Renaissance architecture. Climb to the top of the dome for 360-degree views of St Peter’s Square and the city of Rome, or admire the many statues and artworks, including the Pietà – Michelangelo’s only signed work. If you’re Catholic, you can even be married here. (Terms and conditions apply.)

Aventine Hill

Climb Aventine Hill to enjoy a romantic picnic while gazing down at the city from above. Set in a quieter residential district, it’s a break from the hustle and bustle of the rest of the city. Take a cheeky bottle of wine at sunset and don’t forget to peek through the keyhole of the Knights of Malta for a particularly beautiful view.

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Teatro Dell’Opera di Roma

Head over to the famous opera house to witness a jaw-dropping opera or ballet. Built in the nineteenth century, this theatre is one of the best in Europe. A perfect evening or day activity, you and your partner will leave feeling refreshed and inspired.

Raphael Rooftop Dinner

Enjoy a fancy dinner on the Hotel Raphael roof terrace looking out over Rome. Look up from your meal to admire views of the Church of St Agnes, the Church of St Mary of the Soul and Santa Maria della Pace. Or simply gaze into your partner’s eyes.

Trastevere

As the sun goes down, head over to Trastevere to explore the more laid-back, bohemian side of Rome. Wander through boutique shops selling a variety of unique products perfect for special gifts or souvenirs. There are also plenty of cafés for a relaxing cup of coffee while enjoying the evening air.

Trevi Fountain

Don’t forget to throw a coin into the famous Trevi fountain for luck. Legend has it, you will then be sure to return to Rome in the future. And if you throw in three coins, the fountain promises marriage! All the coins are later collected and donated to charity. Learn about this iconic Roman landmark here.

Giolitti Ice Cream

Ice cream lover? If you’re starting to feel the heat after a long walk, this is the perfect place to cool off. With every flavour imaginable and sprinkles galore, this is a great place to stop off during a day out. Discover some of the best gelato in the city thanks to our guide with local bloggers!

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The Garden of Oranges

Take a leisurely stroll to the Giardino degli Aranci behind the Basilica of Santa Sabine with the ancient ruined walls of the Castle Savelli. Take a picnic or go to enjoy the sunset, accompanied by the wonderful fragrance of the orange trees. What could be more relaxing?

Ponte Sant’Angelo

Enjoy a scenic wander along the Tiber until you reach the Ponte Sant’Angelo bridge that dates back to the 15th century. Watch the lights of Rome reflect and sparkle in the water and think about the love of your life (or the pizza you’re going to order later).

Castel Sant’Angelo

Castel Sant’Angelo is close to the Ponte Sant’Angelo bridge and beautifully lit at night. It’s occasionally open in the evenings, which is a chance to explore the castle when it’s much quieter than normal. Now housing a museum, it was originally built as the Mausoleum of Hadrian and later converted to a papal fortress. While that may not sound romantic, the impressive architecture, peaceful atmosphere and views from the terrace are well worth the trip.

Hidden Cafés and Rooftop Terraces

It wouldn’t be a romantic get-away without a drink at a hidden café or on a rooftop terrace. Rome is home to many places of the sort waiting to be discovered by you and your partner. Stroll through the streets to stumble upon cosy cafés amongst the brick.

The Roman Forum & Palatine Hill

The Roman Forum and Palatine Hill are part of the ancient city of Rome. Explore the ancient ruins, iconic pillars, historical buildings and winding cobbled streets with your partner while you literally walk in the footsteps of emperors.

Campidoglio

A very popular wedding venue, Piazza del Campidoglio is a great place for holiday photos, particularly as there is no traffic. The piazza itself was designed by Michelangelo and has plenty of cafés to stop at. Located on Capitoline Hill, it also offers more exquisite views over the city.

Lungotevere

Lungotevere were large walls built to protect Rome from the Tiber flooding. Now a boulevard running along the edge of the river, this is a perfect spot for a romantic evening stroll while looking out over the water.

Gianicolo Hill

For the most breathtaking panorama of Rome yet, Gianicolo Hill is the place to go to. It doesn’t matter if you’re in your heels and best dress, as taxis run regularly to the top. With cafés and shops conveniently located, there’s no need to pack a picnic either. With so many romantic places in Rome, it’s hard to choose where to start. An OMNIA Vatican & Rome card will save you time and money on big and small attractions, making your romantic getaway go as smoothly as possible. Wishing you a romantic trip!
Megan Hills
Rome Travel Expert

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Top 5 art galleries in Rome with the Roma Pass

When in Rome, do as the Roman’s do. Or at least appreciate how the Romans have done it. Rome is bursting with cultural outlets documenting its history over time. From the Coliseum to the Capitoline Museums, there is plenty of art to be admired – some might say too much, if you’re pushed for time. To make it easy, let’s look at the top 5 art galleries in Rome to get your cultural fix. From the contemporary to the classic, there’s so much to be seen – and with the Roma Pass you can see it all for free. Even better! Capitoline Museums One of the most important art galleries in Rome, the Capitoline Museums were founded in 1471 with the donation of some bronze statues by Pope Sixtus IV. Recognised as a museum of the people, it was created as a testament to Roman history and contains the iconic She-Wolf statue – one of the original donations. The museum now contains ancient Roman statues, medieval and Renaissance art works as well as a collection of jewels and coins. Don’t miss the chapel dedicated to the Patron Saints of Rome decorated with stunning frescoes. Museum of Rome The Museum of Rome can be found in the Palazzo Braschi, nestled in the heart of the city. A fine example of Baroque history, this museum celebrates Renaissance art in particular and displays art from the Middle Ages through to the mid-20th century. Visitors can admire work of art from a wide range of Roman artists in two separate collections, as well as a 2,000 piece ceramic collection and 160 frescoes. You can even see pieces of the old mosaics from the façade of St Peter’s Basilica, dating back to 1230. MAXXI The Museum of 21st century art in Rome focuses on contemporary art through various mediums and how it’s changed over time. With a wide range of exhibitions exploring the breaking down of barriers and challenging conformism, to an iconographical dictionary and collage of images and videos the gallery promises – and succeeds – to inspire and impress. Don’t miss the architecture and photography collections, too which look into both 20th and 21st century concepts. Borghese Gallery For something more classical, you can’t beat the Borghese Gallery for a truly Roman art experience. Housed in the Villa Borghese, this gallery contains masterpieces of some of the great Italian artists including Caravaggio, Botticelli and Raphael. The Sala de Sileno is considered one of the gallery’s most impressive rooms, containing David with the head of Goliath and Young sick Bacchus. Visitors can also admire some of Bernini’s sculptures, including the iconic Apollo and Daphne. Sistine Chapel & Vatican Museums You can’t leave Rome without having experienced the grandeur of the Vatican Museums and having witnessed the spectacular Sistine Chapel ceiling. This notable museum contains over 9 miles of art and sculptures, from ancient Egypt to the 20th century. Look out for the portrait of the Popes and the corridor of statues before heading into the Sistine Chapel for Michelangelo’s The Last Judgement. Although you can’t take photos, take a mental picture of this incredible feat of art. Don’t forget to admire the murals, too, which were painting by Botticelli and often overlooked. With the Roma Pass you can get free entry into 2 of the above art galleries, and the rest at a discounted price. A bargain for any culture vulture! To find out more about the OMNIA Vatican & Rome Card, click here.
Go City Expert
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Eat and drink like a local: the best bars and cafés in Rome

To truly experience any city, it’s best done like a local. It’s not always possible to find the best places to eat and drink in a guidebook so word of mouth and tip-offs from those who know is key. Like any capital city, Rome can be a bit of a tourist trap and without knowing about the best spots, eating and drinking out can be quite a costly expense and in the worst case, a disappointment. The best bars and cafes in Rome aren’t often that far off the beaten track, but sometimes it takes a little to know them. From where to find the best espresso, to the best pizza you can’t fail with our best places to eat and drink your way around Rome. Antica Birreria Peroni Via di San Marcello, 19 If you want to expand your satisfy your Peroni cravings then this bar is the one for you. Antica Birreria Peroni has been the watering whole of Roman locals for over 100 years, so it’s safe to say there’s a reason why it’s been going so long. A simple bar-come-restaurant it's tucked away just off the busy Via del Corso shopping street, down a cobbled alley, so think authentic and traditional. Try their specialities that fill the bar; Peroni Gran Riserva, Peroni Nastro Azzurro, Crystall Red - or even Fuller’s London Pride in case you get homesick. Il Goccetto Via dei Banchi Vecchi, 14 Dubbed Rome’s best wine bar, this unassuming nook is where you want to go for a taste of Italy’s fine wines. Literally, a hole in the wall, it’s housed in one of Rome’s oldest buildings which dates back to 1527. Selling over 800 different wines, it’s impossible to try them all but you can have a good go at it! With walls stacked with bottles – much like a library with its books – it’s the perfect place to go and rest your feet after a day of sightseeing. You can choose from a selection of cold meats and cheeses to accompany your wine; a great aperitivo before dinner. Caffé Greco Via dei Condotti, 86 Italians don’t do things in halves when it comes to the hard stuff. Famous for their strong coffees, tasting a true Roman espresso is top of the list. Head to the Antico Caffé Greco on the prestigious shopping street Via dei Condotti, and experience a real Roman coffee. In one of the oldest coffee shops in Rome it’s considered a historic landmark as it opened in 1760. Keep your eyes peeled for celebrities as it’s a hot spot for those in the know. Dar Poeta Vicolo del Bologna, 45/46 You might be sick of the sight of Pizza when leave Rome but you can’t go without having a seat at Dar Poeta first. Loved by locals, this Trastevere based pizzeria will whip up some of the most authentic flavours and serve up simple combinations that will leave you wanting more! From traditional tomato and mozzarella to Nutella calzone, there’s a range of options from sweet to savoury. Make sure you’ve got a big appetite because you’ll want to try it all. Gelateria Fatamorgana Via Roma Libera, 11 The USP of this ice-cream shop is that it’s all about the all-natural and no-additives. In a city that’s bursting with ice cream shops you want to get a good scoop. This chain of gelaterias can be found all around the city from near the Vatican to the Coliseum. Indulge in their hand-made combinations such as blueberry cheesecake, or even basil and black olives if you’re feeling adventurous. Ice-cream’s a great palate cleanser and with creamy options to light sorbets you’re bound to find something to suit your mood.
Go City Expert
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Blogger's Best Gelaterias in Rome

If you’re spending the summer in Rome, you’ll quickly find yourself searching for ways to cool off in the heat and in desperate need of refreshment. There’s no better way to tackle those needs and celebrate the Rome’s thriving culinary scene than with an ice cold creamy gelato. Gelato is one of Rome’s most iconic gourmet staples and is not to be missed, especially after a long hot day on the tourist trail. Forget waiting until after dinner, have dessert first and make a beeline for some of the best haunts in town during the day. There’s no better way to cool off than with a scoop (or three) of homemade ice cream – trust us. We asked some of the best food, travel and city bloggers where to order the best gelato in Rome. Take it from the professionals and read on... Best Gelato in Rome Именно здесь Грегори Пек угощал мороженым Одри Хепберн в фильме "Римские каникулы"🍦 _____________ Побывать в Италии и не попробовать gelato- непростительно) Giolitti — самое старое кафе-мороженое в Риме. Это историческое заведение было внесено в список Forbes, как одно из самых вкусных морожениц мира. Здесь можно попробовать мороженое со вкусом сицилийской кассаты, шампанского, марсалы и риса Настоящим удовольствием будет выстоять очередь в кафе возле Пантеона и насладится рожком мороженого у фонтана напротив исторического здания. И после встать в очередь опять 💛 A post shared by Dance teacher (@likaqn) on Aug 10, 2018 at 1:54am PDT Best Gelato near the Pantheon We spoke with Alida, the food blogger behind MyLittleItalianKitchen, who suggested Gelateria Giolitti. Located on Via Uffici del Vicario, this family-run business has been in the business of gelato for over a hundred years and has a prime spot on the tourist trail. She said, ‘“The Gelateria Giolitti is barely a stones throw from the Pantheon and the Trevi fountain and is a family run business which has been producing ice cream since 1890. The salon of Gelateria Giolitti has an attractive decor styled in the Art Nouveau and Art Deco style and which is very elegant with the 1930’s furnishings.” As for what they serve? They’ve had a few years to figure out their flavour range and it’s an endless list of both traditional Italian favourites and international influences. Alida continued, “Their tremendous selection of ice cream flavours range from figs, dried fruit, champagne, rice, zabaione, sicilian cassata, nutella and cookies and many others which will leave you craving for more. Their ice cream is simply fantastic! Just the place to go for a creamy and first class ice cream indulgence in stylish surroundings.” #sgnomsterinrome Care for some gelato in the cold cold weather? • 4 scoops with chocolate cone €4.00 A post shared by SG Food | Travel | Lifestyle (@sgnomster) on Apr 17, 2018 at 4:35am PDT Best gelato near St Peter’s Basilica Gelarmony - Via Marcantonio Colonna, 34 With four locations and an avid fan base, Gelarmony is a local favourite and travel blogger Valeria of Rome, New York, London, World insists it's one of the best scoops in Rome. For those poring over their guidebooks and figuring out the day’s route, make time to stop off at their branch situated just fifteen minutes from St Peter’s Basilica for a cold treat. Valeria said, “Their gelato comes in sixty different and delicious flavors, all made of natural ingredients imported from Sicily. You can’t go wrong by picking the more common flavors like chocolate or pistachio, but you should also try their specialties such as cassata and my personal favorites: tiramisù and amaretto. Gelarmony also offers tasty soya-based options. Enjoy!” Let her know what you think on Twitter @RomeNYLondWorld Hotly contested on the streets of Rome, but in this 32 degree heat it has to be gelato from... #Rome #gelato #food #foodie A post shared by Lisa Helmanis (@daystudiolondon) on Jul 6, 2018 at 6:17am PDT Unique gelato in Rome Gelateria del Teatro – Via dei Coronari, 65 (Navona Square) & Lungotevere dei Vallati, 25 (Campo dei Fiori Square /Lungotevere area) For those bored of the standard chocolate and vanilla, head to one of Gelateria del Teatro’s two branches for a more experimental bite. It’s one of local Rome blogger Antonio of Romeing’s favourite spots to cool off on a hot summer’s day with a scoop of some of the best gelato in Rome. Antonio said, “Gelateria del Teatro is so confident about their quality that in each of their two charming locations you can even watch them make their gelato. Flavours include lavender with white peach and pumpkin with chocolate and there is a variety of cone sizes to choose from, including the giant, five-scoop cone monster. We recommend the specialty: rosemary and lemon, a refreshing, cleansing, light yet satisfying flavor.” Let Antonio know which flavours you’ve tried at @Romeing Venchi Gelato, Rome! 🇮🇹 ☀️ . . . . #aegeuswatches #aegeuswatch #klockor #watchesofinstagram #elegance #simplicity #timepiece #watch #watches #klocka #aegeusklocka #wristwatch #aegeus #elegantblacksilver #blacksilver #menwatches #minimalistwatch #minimalistwatches #mensstyle #fashion #watchaddict #vatican #italy #rome #venchi #venchigelato A post shared by Aegeus Watches 🇸🇪 (@aegeuswatches) on Jul 11, 2018 at 2:57pm PDT Best traditional gelato in Rome Venchi – Via degli Orfani, 87 Why dispute the classics? A gelateria named Venchi takes the prize for the best traditional gelato in the city according to food blogger Beverley of Beverley Glock, sticking to all natural ingredients and classic Italian flavours that will really hit the spot. As with the earlier Gelateria Gillotti, it’s also situated nearby the Pantheon in case you have room for more than one sweet treat on your travels. She said, “I’ve never had a poor ice cream in Rome so why would it start here? Venchi make their ice cream with natural ingredients; fresh milk, cream, eggs, fresh fruit and their own chocolate. Only fruit and nuts are used to colour and flavour their ice cream, so there’s no artificial colouring. “Venchi pride themselves on the variety of traditional Italian flavours they offer and situated in an idyllic location right next to The Pantheon, you can tick the ‘culture’ box as you sit down to enjoy the best ice cream in Rome. Do you agree? Let her know on @BeverleyGlock Breakfast, lunch or dinner , hot summer days or rainy cloudy afternoons - in Rome it’s always time for #icecream !! Wearing my beautiful @yalchypapa bracelet 💌 #WeInRoma A post shared by Travel Blog • בלוג טיולים (@ila.na.na) on Jan 26, 2018 at 6:09am PST Best gelato in Trastevere La Fonte della Salute – Via Cardinal Marmaggi, 2-4-6 A day spent wandering the colourful neighbourhood of Trastevere never goes unwasted, as there’s always something new to discover in one of Rome’s most charming areas. Slip past the old men drinking espresso and the trattoria to grab a table at La Fonte della Salute, which serves an unforgettable gelato that caters to people from all walks of life. Blogger Tiziano of Rome Local Friend said, “La Fonte della Salute, which may be translated to “fountain of health” is definitely the best ice cream maker of Trastevere. The shop has been open since 1981. Then after a change in management, it came back stronger than before. Now they sell organic, vegan and gluten free ice cream. This is definitely what one would call the ‘Gelateria of the 21st century’. I love to pop in for a tasty ice cream whenever I am around. They still offer a very wide variety of flavours, from cream to fruit, so I invite you to come too during your strolls in the neighborhood. They also provide some free tables outside.” What’s your favourite flavour? Start a conversation with @RomeLocalFriend
Megan Hills

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