We usually fly out of Rome and I make a point of not travelling to Rome on the day I fly in case there is a transport strike – sciopero – they happen regularly in Italy.
There is the added benefit that I get a day to wander about in Rome. We always stay at the Hotel Julia, a short walk to the Piazza di Spagna, a very good place to start a Rome day.
the Spanish steps
the scaffolding has finally come off the building at the top of the stairs
Strolling down Via Babuino I came across this furry Roman.
his name was Marco
2 of Rome’s finest were having a chat nearby.
Roman police having a chat
I always swing by the Pantheon because I love it. Click here to see more on this incredible building.
part of the fountain in front of the Pantheon
one the other side - with pigeon
Whenever I am near the Pantheon I stop for a coffee at Caffe Sant Eustachio, supposed to have the best coffee in Rome.
Caffe Sant Eustachio in Piazza Sant Eustachio
The coffee is indeed excellent and it is fun to watch the baristas at work. They take their coffee making very seriously.
a talented barista
You can’t miss the Vittorio Emanuelle II monument. Take a ride to the top in the lift at the back of the building.
take the lift to the top of the typewriter for great views of Rome
Or walk to the top of Capitoline hill beside the monument.
the always busy steps to Capitoline Hill
Large chunks of Capitoline Hill were destroyed to build the monument to Vittorio EmanuelleII. Tiny pieces of old Rome can still be found at the base of the building.
old fresco at the base of Vittorio Emanuele II
As with any Italian city, wandering aimlessly is fun. Look out for all the little details.
a wonderful old door
check out the lock on the door
an elaborate building near the Pantheon
an interesting apartment in the evening light
One of our favourite places to eat in Rome is Ristorante alla Rampa. It is under the Spanish Steps.
Ristorante alla Rampa
The speciality here is the antipasto table. For 10 euro you can have a selection of the delicious antipasti. We usually share one as an entree. The food here is consistently good, which is why we keep coming back.
For a bit more on Rome, click here, and here or look in the Rome category.