Clued In Rome – The Concise and Opinionated Guide to the City 2026
This is the year. Rome is waiting.
Let us take you there.
Grab the new 2026 edition here, in print or ebook.
Please note: There have been recent one-star posts that contain wildly untrue criticisms purposely meant to damage our brand. Rest assured that our paperback editions measure only 5″ x 8″ and weigh just 8 ounces. At around 200 pages, our travel books contain all the info needed for an incredible trip, and are not the size of a “brochure.” They have normal sized fonts, and what is not Googleable in them are our concise, personal opinions of each sight, hotel, restaurant, and transport option, which is the very point of our books.
ANNOUNCEMENT:
Caffe Greco closing – Update 11/15/25
If you have a recent copy of Clued In Rome, you may have noticed our raving review of the pastries at Caffe Greco near the Spanish Steps. Their cannoli was the best we have ever had anywhere! Unfortunately, after a long tenant-owner dispute over a huge rent increase, the courts have ruled in favor of the property owners and caused the closing of this charming historic, two-hundred-sixty-four-year-old establishment. We apologize for any inconvenience… the book is currently being updated to reflect this change.
NEXT ARTICLE:
The truth about Christmas Day in Rome – December 2025
If you had the good taste to choose Rome for your Christmas holiday then you might be wondering how to spend your time on Thursday, December 25 when almost all of the city’s sights and restaurants will be closed in observance of Christmas Day. These folks are really into Christmas and will be with their loved ones on the big day. The few dining rooms that will be open (inside various upscale hotels) are taking bookings right now. That means you need to plan ahead…
1) If you’re staying in a hotel, buy some lovely panini sandwiches at Il Salumaio the afternoon before, along with some sweet treats and beverages because there’s a good chance that this will be your holiday meal. 2) If you’re staying in an apartment, go to Campo de’ Fiori market in the days before the holiday and get ready to prepare an at-home feast featuring prosciutto, olives, Parmesan cheese, and some good Barolo red wine. 3) At St. Peter’s Basilica, Holy Mass will be celebrated on the 24th in the evening, and also in the piazza. At noon on Christmas Day (and with no ticket required) you can grab a spot for the Pope’s annual holiday Papal blessing of the crowd. Chick here for all the Vatican holiday info. [More tips below the photo.] 4) If you have a rental car, take a drive to the beautiful lake and summer Papal residence at Castel Gandolfo or explore the Mediterranean seaside of Ostia Antica and its ruins –and revel in having the roads all to yourself. 5) If no vehicle is at your disposal, then go for a leisurely stroll around the quaint Jewish Quarter or over in nearby Trastevere. 6) Be out and about after the sunset too; slowly but surely other folks will begin to fill the streets and squares. Merry Christmas!
Note: Tickets for Christmas Eve Mass at St. Peter’s (celebrated inside the great basilica with the Pope) are free but will need to be reserved ahead because this is a very popular event. It is also known as Midnight Mass or Natale del Signore. You are also welcome to watch the Mass being simulcast live on giant screens placed in the square outside. Arrive early to grab some good seats.
NEXT ARTICLE:
Autumn in Rome/ November 2025
If you’ll be one of the clever travelers coming to Rome before the onslaught of visitors who descend upon it for Christmas and New Year’s, then good for you. You’ll get a taste of what this incredible place is really like for its local residents. Why not join them at the Vatican’s lighting of its Christmas tree and life-sized Nativity scene on Saturday, December 6th at 5pm, or dine at Il Marchese where you’ll have a very memorable meal. If shopping is your thing, don’t miss the huge Christmas Market set up in late November in Piazza Navona –all will make for great memories. And before you go, we hope you’ll grab a copy of Clued In Rome. It has info not found in other guides which is exactly why it stands apart from the rest!
NEXT ARTICLE:
NEXT ARTICLE:
Rome’s big music festival is coming in November! – October 2025
We’re talkin’ jazz, baby, and since 1976, Rome has held the coolest music festival ever. Top jazz musicians from around the world will descend to jam and croon, and if you want to see the full listing of events by date, visit the website for the city’s Auditorium Parco Della Musica here. As you navigate the “upload upcoming events” button at the bottom of their webpage, you’ll see that there are plenty of offerings from November 1st to the 23rd. Be sure to get your tickets as soon as possible.
NEXT ARTICLE:
In Focus: Ristorante Ad Hoc – September 2025
In Clued In Rome, we tout the exceptional food and impeccable service at one of our favorite restaurants, Ad Hoc. Set on a historic street near the exquisite Piazza del Popolo, this place never fails to impress. The chef is clearly mad for truffles and presents them correctly in a variety of dishes. They even offer a truffle-tasting menu! But Ad Hoc is so much more… this intimate restaurant allows diners to enjoy the fine fare among the many wine bottles displayed on the walls. And speaking of wine, this is the very spot where we tasted the most velvety red wine of our lives; it was so soft on the palette that we will never forget it. If you’re looking for an elegant dining experience that is not showy in the least, make a reservation. We think it’s the perfect place for a romantic dinner or special occasion. You can book a table ahead through their website here.
NEXT ARTICLE:
It’s the start of the social season in Rome – August/ September 2025
There’s a lot going on in the Italian capital so if you’re planning on visiting soon, snag a ticket to something before you leave. We recommend Benjamin Britten’s incredible Turn of the Screw being presented mid to late September at Rome’s Teatro dell’Opera. FYI, this theatre is also known as the Costanzi Theatre . As of this posting there are still some tickets available.
Rome celebrates its annual European Heritage Days in late September and there will be special nighttime openings at many historical sites. Many of the city’s museums will have an admission price of only €1 per person, so be on the lookout. (There is currently no English language website for this event.)
NEXT ARTICLE:
Grab our fun guide to Rome! – July 2025
Our companion book to Clued In Rome is chock full of super fun experiences. Grab your copy of Bored in Rome– Awesome Experiences for the Repeat Visitor before you wrap up your plans and itinerary for that trip to Italy. It’ll change the way you think about how you’re going to use your time while you’re here. We think it’s a must-have, even for first-time visitors. It is offered in both paperback and eBook so get one today!
NEXT ARTICLE
NEXT ARTICLE:
In Focus: Enoteca Corsi – June 2025
One of the most authentic and unpretentious family-owned restaurants in the center of Rome is Enoteca Corsi. This two-room restaurant is tucked inside what used to be a wine store. Don’t come here for a fancy ambience; come here for the food. All of their dishes are homemade daily, our favorite being a recurring special, the artichoke lasagna. Life-changing? We think so. If they seat you in the room holding the wine bottles, it’s possible you’ll find the perfect (dusty) vintage right by your table to share with your loved ones. So good!
NEXT ARTICLE
The underground catacombs of Rome – May 2025
Our recommendations for travelers going to Rome in the spring are usually about new restaurants or sights, but our sister-series of “Bored In” travel books has inspired us to highlight something quite different from the usual tourist trek. Our book, Bored in Rome –Awesome Experiences for the Repeat Visitor has an entire chapter on chilling and thrilling things to do here. Underground tombs are just the beginning…
Catacomb tombs and crypts filled with bones are a great way to experience something really scary. If you love the idea of going underground and walking through tunnels where the dead were laid to rest for eternity then this is the sight for you. The tour recommended below will take you on an unforgettable journey from a Cappuccine crypt in the city center to the oldest discovered burial area in the city, the Domitilla Catacombs. Not only are they macabre, they also are home to important artifacts like a second-century fresco of The Last Supper. Included is also a visit to the Aurelian Walls and the famous Appian Way. (The latter was the site of the crucifixion of ten thousand slaves during the revolt of Spartacus.) All transportation will be by private luxury coach with no more than fifteen guests in the group, and their expert guides are English-speaking. Check it out at theromanguy.com
NEXT ARTICLE:
In Focus: Understanding the pastas of Rome/ April 2025
Roman diners historically prefer certain types of pasta so we thought it was time we clued in our readers about which ones they are. Everyone knows about spaghetti of course, but how does it differ from linguine? Is a raviolo similar to ravioli? And what the heck are orecchiette and bucatini? These and other pressing questions will be answered here! First we should explain that Romans like certain shapes with certain types of dishes. A small cap-shaped pasta called cappelletti is almost always served with a very liquidy broth, where a square pasta like ravioli are often served with little or no sauce at all other than an herby oil as a finish. One thing you can count on for sure is that they detest the idea of an type of cheese with fish and seafood, and therefore will never offer grated Parmesan on your spaghetti with clams. They do not serve meatballs with spaghetti ever, and never try to order Fettuccine Alfredo because they simply won’t know what it is. Here are the most popular pasta shapes particular to Romans:
Cappelletti: Small, round meat-filled pasta served in broth/ Maltagliati: thinly rolled-out rectangles of pasta made from the scraps of pasta dough and served in a light condiment sauce/ Orecchiette: rolled pasta pressed into the shape of “little ears” and commonly served with a sausage and broccoli rabe topping/ Rigatoni: hearty, tubular pasta shapes which have a distinctively wide opening and served with heavier sauces/ Bucatini: long spaghetti-like “straws” with a narrow hole down the middle and almost always served in a famous Roman tomato and pork sauce called all’Amatriciana/ Tortellini: tender handmade ricotta-stuffed pasta circles which often have additional flavor-makers inside them too/ Penne: dried, short pasta tubes often tossed with vegetable sauces such as carciofo (artichoke)/ Spaghetti: firm, thin round noodles made from hard-wheat flour and water and served best with an olive oil-based sauce or light tomato sauce that can easily coat the long strands. And to make you a true expert: a Raviolo is one single, large stuffed square of pasta, usually served in finer restaurants with a special filling inside, where ravioli is the plural of the word and therefore refers to many smaller stuffed squares. As for Linguine? It’s those long strands of pasta that are slightly flattened (instead of being round like spaghetti) and are often paired with seafood or pesto dishes. Buon appetito!
NEXT ARTICLE:
Announcement – March 2025
The fee and visa-waiver permission (ETIAS) for Americans and Canadians to travel to the European Union has been officially postponed until late-2026 or early-2027… yet another reason to travel this year! We are currently updating the information in our travel books to reflect this change. Visit the link below for more info:
https://travel-europe.europa.eu/etias_en
NEXT ARTICLE:
Try an eBike Expedition on the Appian Way – March 2025
During Rome’s amazing 2025 Jubilee year, it might be a good idea to plan something that will remove you from the busier sections of town. For us, that means a super-fun, effortless eBike expedition along the famed Appian Way. Now, before the weather warms up too much, enjoy an outdoor activity that gives you an unparalleled historic perspective as well. The folks at The Red Bicycle will take you on a small-group, guided cycling adventure to some of Rome’s aqueducts. You’ll ride through classic Roman landscapes towards the Mediterranean Sea on your choice of a mechanical or electric bike. The use of a helmet, bike bag, and picnic can be included. This nearly traffic-free journey can accommodate teen to adult cyclists. Go ahead; click on the link above and make the Italian countryside your own. (A 12-hour cancellation refund is offered.)
NEXT ARTICLE:
Explore your own artistic talent in Rome – February 2025
Romans have been creating beautiful mosaic artwork for more than 2,500 years. Now it’s your turn. There’s no better place to learn this amazing skill than at Studio Cassio – Arte del Mosaico, where mosaics are part of their family history. You can try your hand at a traditional design or can choose to do a realistic portrait of yourself. (A digitized photo will be taken of you so that you can match up the different shades perfectly in stone tiles. It’s like an ancient selfie!) For more fantastic ideas of what to do in Roma, grab a copy of our new 2025 book, Bored in Rome: Awesome Experiences for the Repeat Visitor.
NEXT ARTICLE:
Where to shop the sales – January 2025
Like many stores in the U.S., Italian boutiques put their best designer items on sale after the holidays. If you’re visiting Rome in January and have the urge to do some shopping (or just want to come home with one really special item) this is the time. The most famous shopping street in Rome is Via dei Condotti, affectionately referred to simply as Condotti, which runs east/west from the base of the famous Spanish Steps. For those who are unfamiliar with Rome, this means that the best shopping can be found smack-dab in the city center, north of the ancient sights. This may be helpful to know even if you don’t plan on hitting the boutiques… being aware of this type of location also tells you precisely where a city’s most desirable neighborhood is. That’s usually where you’ll also find some of the best hotels, and some top-notch restaurants too, like Ristorante Life.
NEXT ARTICLE:
The truth about Christmas Day in Rome – December 2024
If you had the good taste to choose Rome for your Christmas holiday then you might be wondering how to spend your time on Wednesday December 25 when all of the city’s sights and restaurants will be closed in observance of Christmas Day. These folks are really into Christmas and will be with their loved ones on the big day. The few dining rooms that will be open (inside various upscale hotels) are probably booked up by now. That means you’ll need to plan ahead…
1) If you’re staying in a hotel, buy some lovely panini sandwiches at Il Salumaio the afternoon before, along with some sweet treats and beverages because there’s a good chance that this will be your holiday meal. 2) If you’re staying in an apartment rental, go to Campo de’ Fiori market in the days before the holiday and get ready to prepare an at-home feast featuring prosciutto, olives, Parmesan cheese, and some good Barolo wine. 3) At St. Peter’s Basilica, Holy Mass will be celebrated on the 24th in the evening, and also in the piazza. At noon on Christmas Day (and with no ticket required) you can grab a spot for the Pope’s annual holiday Papal blessing of the crowd. Chick here for all the Vatican holiday info. [See our tips below the photo.] 4) If you have a rental car, take a drive to the beautiful lake and summer Papal residence at Castel Gandolfo or explore the Mediterranean seaside of Ostia Antica and its ruins –and revel in having the roads all to yourself. 5) If no vehicle is at your disposal then go for a leisurely stroll around the quaint Jewish Quarter or Trastevere. 6) Be out and about after the sunset too; slowly but surely other folks will begin to fill the streets and squares. Merry Christmas!
Note: Tickets for Christmas Eve Mass at St. Peter’s (celebrated inside the great basilica with the Pope) are free but will need to be reserved ahead because this is a very popular event. It is also known as Midnight Mass or Natale del Signore. You are also welcome to watch the Mass being simulcast live on giant screens placed in the square outside. Arrive early to grab some good seats.
NEXT ARTICLE:
In Focus: New Year’s Eve Roman-style
Do you plan on spending New Year’s Eve in Rome to herald in 2025? If so, you’ve chosen a grand place. In the week following Christmas Day, the Eternal City is busy, festively decorated, and open. Make dinner reservations now, and expect to be offered lentils whether you want them or not. They’re considered good luck for the coming year, so eat up. Make sure to wear your best red underwear (another Roman New Year’s tradition for both men and women) and then after dinner, head down to the boulevard Via dei Fori Imperiali. Try to get there a few hours before midnight to snag a spot with a good view of the fireworks display. As for January 1st, go ahead and sleep in because most shops and basically all the museums will be closed. If you have trouble finding a restaurant on that day, try one of the larger hotels because they will definitely be serving food.
NEXT ARTICLE:
Going to the theatre? – October 2024
If you’re visiting Rome in the fall or winter months, get tickets now for a performance at the famous Teatro Costanzi. That’s right! October marks the official start to the Roman theatre season which includes opera as well as ballet, contemporary dance, and music. Attending a dance or music concert in a place where you don’t speak the language fluently is always a great idea. We recommend a performance by the opera’s ballet company (formerly the Rome Ballet) which will be presenting several full-length ballets. You can find the full calendar for all the various performances at Teatro Costanzi on the Teatro dell’Opera di Roma website.
NEXT ARTICLE:
Grab our “fun” guide to Rome! September 2024
Our “companion book” to Clued In Rome is chock full of super fun experiences. Grab your copy of Bored in Rome– Awesome Experiences for the Repeat Visitor before you wrap up your plans and itinerary for that trip to Italy. It’ll change the way you think about how you’re going to use your time while you’re here. We think it’s a must-have, even for first-time visitors. It is offered in both paperback and eBook and you can learn more about it right here.
NEXT ARTICLE:
Late Summer Nights in Rome/ August 2024
As summer takes hold of the Eternal City, two special late-night opportunities await you. First off, there are guided tours in English of the Colosseum at night. It’s a wonderful way to spend a warm summer evening without the pesky 15,000 people who visit it in the daytime. Another place to avoid crowds is at the Vatican Museums on Friday and Saturdays nights until 10:30pm. From May though October only, these special hours mean that you might have the place more to yourself. Sometimes there’s even live chamber music being played. Trust us, this late-night visit gives the Vatican Museums a whole new vibe and an experience that’s very different from the norm.
NEXT ARTICLE:
‘Hotel Art’ is now ‘Maison Roma’ – July 2024
The clued-in readers who purchased our Clued In Rome: The Concise and Opinionated Guide to the City will find that Hotel Art at the Spanish Steps has a new name, weblink, and email address. Everything else in book’s description page is unchanged. It is now called Maison Roma – Piazza di Spagna. The book and its update will reflect these changes as of August 1st. Thank you for your kind understanding.
NEXT ARTICLE:
Enjoy Villa d’Este in nearby Tivoli – July 2024
For summer visitors to Rome who have more than a few days to spend there, we recommend getting out of town to see something else that’s just as fabulous. Tivoli offers day-trippers two different sights that are reachable by a direct train from Rome’s central station, Termini. Hadrian’s Villa (Villa Adriana) and Villa d’Este are both UNESCO World Heritage Sites and show the playgrounds of the wealthy and powerful some fifteen centuries apart.
We especially love the gardens of the Villa d’Este (included with your entry to the mansion villa itself.) This garden park boasts hundreds of whimsical fountains set among landscaped grounds, and provide a cool break on a hot summer day. Both of these UNESCO sites are near each other by taxi and are a forty-five minute scenic train ride from Rome. Note: the gardens are usually closed on Monday mornings; tickets can simply be purchased at its entrance because they rarely if ever sell out. More information can be found in our Clued In Rome: The Concise and Opinionated Guide to the City.
NEXT ARTICLE:
In Focus: The Jerry Thomas Speakeasy/ June 2024
June nights practically demand that you stay out later than usual so give our favorite Roman speakeasy a try, if you can find it. Located through a plain black door at 30 Vicolo Cellini, the Jerry Thomas Speakeasy may be one of the world’s great speakeasies. You’ll have to utter a secret password to get in, but this can be discovered by joining their website newsletter. You will also need a firm reservation booked through their online calendar.
Not worth the trouble you say? Think again. If you get in you’ll probably have your best night ever in the Eternal City. The incredible mixology, the professional service, and the past-century vibe all come together for one very extraordinary experience. Open from 9pm to 4am; closed on Mondays.
NEXT ARTICLE:
The best location of any hotel in Rome – May 2024
If you want style, modernity, a great price, and the most central location in all of the Eternal City, look no further than The Talent Hotel. If we could live there, we would. This boutique hotel has just fourteen rooms, some with sitting areas, and has received top guest ratings for literally everything. It’s located right on Via del Corso, just steps from the central plaza called Piazza Venezia. Wow, that means it’s right across the street from the magnificent Palazzo Doria-Pamphilj (one our new favorite sights!)
NEXT ARTICLE:
Where to enjoy a picnic in Rome – April 2024
Now that spring has arrived, you may want to dine in nature rather than be inside a cramped restaurant. There’s no easier place to put together a finger-food picnic than here. All you need is some sliced salami or prosciutto, a crusty chunk of bread, olives, cheese, grapes or apricots, and of course a nice bottle of wine. (Don’t forget the plastic cups.) Where to get it all? Look no further than our favorite deli, Antica Salumeria located at Piazza della Rotunda 4, which is right across from the Pantheon’s entrance (look to the right as you’re facing the ancient temple.) This place is the real deal and not touristy at all. They’ll make you a custom platter of goodies upon request, or turn any of their offerings into the best sandwich you’ve ever had. Try a panini sandwich of their famous porchetta. But where to go? The island in the middle of the Tiber river (Isola Tiberina) is only a ten minute walk south and makes a cool spot, as long you don’t mind sitting on stone steps because there isn’t much grass. You could also opt for a park bench in the green space surrounding the famous Castel St. Angelo which would be superb if the landscaping there was better cared for. Our favorite place to picnic has to be the gorgeous Villa Borghese park, a fifteen minute walk up Via del Corso from that salumeria. Head north to Piazza del Popolo and use the stone stairway on the right to enter. After you eat, there’s plenty to do in the park. Check out this interactive map of all the fun things to see and experience. Buon appetito!
NEXT ARTICLE:
Kick back at Rome’s premiere jazz joint – March 2024
Paris might be one of the birthplaces of jazz but the Italians took it to new heights, so it seems only right that we send you to our favorite jazz joint, Gregory’s. This intimate, dark wooded club located on the long street above the Spanish Steps will have you drinking whiskey and tapping your feet as you listen to some of the best jazz artists in town, including some great talent brought in on a visiting basis. Check their website for the changing calendar and special guest nights. You’ll find it at 54 Via Gregoriana – closed on Mondays.
NEXT ARTICLE:
In Focus: Beginner’s pasta-making workshop – February 2024
During Rome’s chillier months, you might be wondering about fun things to do that are decidedly indoors. We have just the thing, and it will be a memorable part of your upcoming visit to the Eternal City…
The best way to learn about a culture is through its cuisine. In Rome, that means making fresh pasta in a professional kitchen in the historic center with our friend Chef Fortuna. She will teach you everything you need to know (in English) and with tons of patience. Her group workshops are also a great way to meet other travelers from around the world. Note that she also offers pastry and gelato workshops as well. Featured in both our Clued In Rome and Bored in Rome books, her fun classes can be booked through her website. Attendees get to eat what they made and the pasta lunch even includes wine! Just do it.
NEXT ARTICLE:
Plan ahead for the trip of a lifetime – January 2024
The more you can plan beforehand, the more memorable your visit to Rome will be. At Clued In Travel Books, we are big believers in having reservations at the restaurants we most desire rather than settling for our second or third choices. Restaurants tend to fill up fast, especially around Valentine’s Day (which has become a global holiday.) As for the city’s top sights, book most of them ahead too because everyone else will be doing the same; times have definitely changed. You didn’t come this far only to find the incredible Pamphilj Galleries is sold out. Having reservations and tickets brings about the amazing effect of keeping your sight-seeing on track. No flaking out allowed!
If you are the type of traveler who likes to go to an undiscovered city with no plans (just to see where fate takes you) then we say, “Good luck and bless your heart.” Instead, go ahead and grab one of our travel books and peruse through it to the end. You’ll be shocked at how a place you knew nothing about is suddenly as clear as can be. It’s almost magical.
One of our newest fans recently stated, “I thought I would “dog -ear” a few pages to go back and read later, and I simply could not put the book down. I ended up with over half of the pages with a turned down corner! I am fortunate to have traveled to over 30 countries and have used all of the popular guidebooks; Rick Steves, Frommers, and Lonely Planet… and this one is best of all.”
NEXT ARTICLE:
In Focus: Spending the Holidays in Rome – November 2023
Whether you’ve already booked a December trip to Rome or just want to be inspired to plan one for next year, here’s a quick overview of some of the annual, local festivities that you should know about before you go:
Note: The national holidays in December (where museums and government facilities will be closed) are December 8, 25, and 26. Decorated Christmas trees can be found in Piazza Venezia, as well as near the Colosseum and in front of St. Peter’s Basilica.
Hanukkah will be observed from December 7to 15. Rome’s large Jewish community gathers in Piazza Barberini to see candles lit on a large Menorah each night.
Christmas Markets: The most famous market is set up in Piazza Navona and is a must-see. Stalls selling handmade gifts, nativity scenes, toys, and seasonal goodies will be open from around December 6 through the New Year. Father Christmas usually makes an appearance, and a full nativity scene is also featured. At a smaller Christmas market next to Castel Sant’Angelo, you can usually enjoy outdoor ice skating daily from around 10am to midnight (closing earlier on the actual holidays.)
Presepe: Nativity scenes (called presepe) are inside almost all of Rome’s churches, as well as a life-sized one in Saint Peter’s Square at the Vatican. The baby Jesus is usually covered, or not present at all until Christmas Eve, when he makes his appearance. A special exhibit of one hundred presepe from all over the world are often on display at Sala del Bramante in Piazza del Popolo in December.
Processions: December 8 is Immaculate Conception Day and the Pope often celebrates it by leading a caravan from the Vatican to the Spanish Steps (Piazza di Spagna), where he lays a wreath in front of Trinita dei Monti Church near the top of the steps. Another large procession takes place on Santa Lucia Day, December 13, and travels from Castel Sant’ Angeloto Saint Peter’s Square.
Christmas Eve: Baby Jesus is unveiled to a grateful crowd at the life-size nativity in Saint Peter’s Square.
Christmas Day: Everything is closed on December 25th as Romans celebrate one of the most religious holidays of the year. You can feel part of it by attending midnight mass with the Pope at Saint Peter’s Basilica, or many of the other churches holding service as the night flips from Christmas Eve to Christmas Day. Everyone is welcome at these highly ceremonial services no matter what your religion or belief.
Saint Stephen’s Day: This national holiday is observed on December 26 and is really just an extension of Christmas Day. Romans usually visit the Christmas markets and nativity scenes around the city.
New Year’s Eve: Don’t miss the huge celebration at midnight in Piazza del Popolo featuring music, dancing, fireworks and hefty crowds.
NEXT ARTICLE:
The Pantheon is now charging an entrance fee – November 2023
After being free to enter for 2,000 years, Rome’s most famous temple will begin charging an entrance fee (unless you are there to attend one of its scheduled Catholic Masses.) Here is what we know right now:
A visitor and purchase entry tickets right at the front door. It is currently 5 euros for adults but free for visitors age 17 and under. The Pantheon is open everyday from 9am to 6pm. The first Sunday of the month is free once Mass has ended. Holy Mass if celebrated on Saturdays at 5pm, and on Sundays and holidays at 10:30am. The Pantheon is closed on Christmas Day and New Year’s Day.
NEXT ARTICLE:
In focus: Dining at the historic Ristorante Pancrazio – October 2023
If you’re fascinated by Rome’s history and the many ruins scattered around town, don’t miss spending an evening at the enigmatic Ristorante Pancrazio. Here you can dine on sumptuous, historic dishes while surrounded by the very walls and cellars of the ancient Theater of Pompey which was built in 61BC. It has been serving hungry diners since 1922, making it something of a historic sight itself. That’s precisely why we recommend it in our book, Bored in Rome, Awesome Experiences for the Repeat Visitor. The wonderful video that plays in the background of Pancrazio’s home page shows you much of what it looks like… check it out at the restaurant link above.
NEXT ARTICLE:
Sometimes you just want a great sandwich – September 2023
We’re finally going to release a bit of information that we’ve been keeping private -our favorite panini shop in Rome. Since it’s August, and Ristorante Babette and Enoteca Corsi are closed for their summer holiday, you might need to have a panini for dinner. That’s okay because the ones served here at Il Salumaio are huge and satisfying and have been since 1937. Located just two blocks west from Piazza di Spagna (aka the Spanish Steps) at 28 Via della Croce, it’s conveniently located for most visitors.
The signs on their walls will help you decide which sandwich combination to order, something you can’t really do beforehand because they are just to busy to maintain a website. Please note that they are open everyday except Sunday from 10am to 9pm. There are only a few tables so try to avoid the more popular eating times so that you can sit down and really enjoy it. It’s not charming or rustically adorable… but it’s delicious! We love the “Norma” and the “Gonzo” which feature top quality prosciutto on fresh, crusty bread paired with fried eggplant and artichokes respectively.
NEXT ARTICLE:
The Perk Report – August 2023
Our readers know that we include a concise but helpful segment in most of our travel books called The Perk Report. Here is an excerpt from our Clued In Rome book…
You might go looking for that Seattle-based, green mermaid coffee chain you frequent at home but you won’t find it here. Well, not yet. There are several that have popped up in Milan and one near Florence, but a coffee culture like the one that exists in Italy means that they will never be fully embraced. Never.
Anyway, you won’t miss it if you follow our advice. Romans have been drinking coffee forever and they know how to do it right. There’s really no argument about where to get the tastiest caffeine fix in Rome; you head for the neighborhood of the Pantheon. Each of our recommended coffee spots are wonderful in their own way, so enjoy.
By the way, you may have already noticed that we spell caffè in this book like the Italians do, rather than the French. These little eateries we love so well were literally named for the coffee that gave them their start five-hundred-years ago.
Here’s a quick primer on the terminology:
Caffè (what we call an espresso)
Caffè Latte (an espresso shot with lots of steamed milk and some foam)
Cappuccino (an espresso shot with some milk, and foam on top)
Caffè Doppio (a double shot –a large espresso)
Caffè con Panna (an espresso with cream)
Caffè Americano (an espresso shot that’s been watered down but it’s still strong!)
Macchiato (same as a cappuccino but with much less milk involved)
Marocchino (a cappuccino with cocoa added)
Granita con Panna (frozen coffee with whipped cream)
———–
Dean says, “If you casually order a latte because you think you’re cool and don’t have to say caffè latte then you’ll receive a tall glass of milk. That is what Italians hear when you say latte.”
Pro Tip: In Rome’s caffès and gelato shops, just tell the cashier your order, then hand your little receipt to the baristi. You don’t need to say another word; they’ll know what to make.
Good Clue: In Rome, a cappuccino is a frothy espresso with steamed milk on top that is enjoyed in the morning only. That doesn’t mean you can’t have one whenever… just ask, there’s no shame.
NEXT ARTICLE:
Rome’s Caracalla Music Festival is on – June 2023
A visit to Rome can be a cultural experience any time of year but the month of June kicks off a summer of musical performances at the breathtaking outdoor venue of the ancient Baths of Caracalla. We can’t think of many things that can surpass that, so treat yourself to a ticket if you’ll be in Rome during the high season. This year the Caracalla Festival is offering opera, ballet, singers, and concerts featuring everything from Gershwin to Beethoven to Verdi! C’mon, how can you go wrong? Book your tickets soon though!
NEXT ARTICLE:
Update – May 2023
Our brand new Clued In Rome paperback-print book has arrived! Grab a copy today on Amazon.com because we can’t wait for you to see it. It features nearly fifty original images in gorgeous black and white – the ebook version still has color images. It’s your choice. Happy travels!
NEXT ARTICLE:
In focus: Piazza Navona’s ruined stadium – February 2023
When other websites are touting where to eat on Valentine’s Day, we’ve opted to send our readers in a different direction by giving a February shout-out to a lesser known sight right in the center of Rome. The incredibly well-presented ruins of the stadium beneath Piazza Navona (from which it takes its oval racetrack shape) are totally worth your time. For a cheap tour fee of around 9 euro, you can enter a museum-worthy area that will take your breath away. The excellent lighting and signage that has been installed means that this ancient area, known as Domitian’s Stadium, lives up to its newly-minted status as a UNESCO World Heritage sight. The best part is that it’s decidedly uncrowded because most travel guides don’t mention it and so people simply do not know about it. Be one of the clued in visitors to go and see it for yourself! 3D enhancements are available for your use. Note: You’ll find Stadio di Domiziano’s new entrance just outside the curved end of Piazza Navona, at 3 Via di Tor Sanguigna. Open from 10am on…
Historic Highlight: In 304 AD, Agnes, a 13 year-old Christian who would not renounce her faith, was brought to this stadium in order to propagandize her death by fire before a formidable blood-thirsty crowd. The fire would not take so she was beheaded with a sword instead. The spot of her murder is where the Baroque church Sant’Agnes in Agone stands today in her honor. This makes the stadium below and the piazza above inextricably linked forever.
NEXT ARTICLE:
Pastry obsession solved – Rome – January 2023
There’s nothing that can fill a cold, empty feeling in the tummy like pastry… really good pastry. It’s true that our local obsession with it switches around depending on the season, but right now it lies firmly with Caffè Doria at 1 Via della Gatta (which is part of the Doria Pamphilj Palazzo near Piazza Venezia.) Rome is tricky when it comes to pastry. Most bakeries here offer simply baked, crispy rolls and biscotti because that’s what the locals are used to. For fancier (Austrian inspired) pastry confections, we usually head over to Antico Caffè Greco on Via Condotti -its been our favorite for years. But recently we discovered Caffè Doria (a small pasticceria & bistro) and really appreciated their selection of pastries. Give it a try, especially if you are in the area of the lower trident. Closed Mondays.
NEXT ARTICLE:
Ordering tap water in Rome’s restaurants – November 2022
Rome has clean, fresh water that comes from the gorgeous surrounding countryside. It is perfectly fine for most visitors to drink and doesn’t have that strange mineral taste you sometimes find in Venice. If you dare, live like a local and order a carafe of tap water (d’acqua del rubinetto) for your table. If you must splurge out and have bottled water, say d’acqua frizzante or d’acqua gassata for the fizzy one, and d’acqua naturale for the regular. Either way, don’t forget to add the word please (per favore) after it!
NEXT ARTICLE:
Sip organic wines on a gorgeous rooftop – October 2022
Just outside of Rome’s amazing Piazza Navona, you’ll find a terrace restaurant and cocktail bar called the Mater Terrae. It is the shining star of the Bio Hotel Raphael. After their regular dinner service, they offer a menu of delicious bar bites and a full cocktail service. What you’ll enjoy most is the unbelievable view of renaissance Rome from your table.
NEXT ARTICLE:
Buy a hat in a store that opened in 1857 – August 2022
A purchase at Troncarelli Hats in Rome makes you part of history. This fantastic shop, filled with every type of hat a gentleman or lady could want, is stuffed floor to ceiling and at first glace can seem overwhelming. It’s not a large shop, just a very full one. If you have something specific in mind, that will help. Bring home a fabulous Italian hat that you’ll enjoy for years. We think a grey felt fedora might be just the thing. The shop is located at Located at 15 Via della Cuccagna just south of Piazza Navona. (This place can be a bit overpriced, however!) For fun shopping and more than a few incredible experiences, grab a copy of our new Bored in Rome.
NEXT ARTICLE:
Where to grab a delicious lunch on the cheap – July 2022
At some point during your visit to Rome, there will come a time when you find yourself hungry near the Spanish Steps (Piazza di Spagna.) Hey it happens to the best of us. Fortunately you can actually have one of your cheapest but most memorable and tastiest lunches nearby at Il Salumaio. Located at 28 Via della Croce, this little place shines with fresh local ingredients and sandwich (panino) combos that will have you trying to recreate long after you’ve returned home. We adore the “Cafone” and the “Bomba.” Feel free to take a seat at one of the outdoor tables after they hand you your selection. Il Salumaio is open daily from morning to evening. (We’ve never told anyone about this place until now!)
NEXT ARTICLE:
Visit something special that’s probably off your radar – June 2022
This month, all of our City-Extras will highlight an awesome local sight that you’ve probably never heard of. (If you have, kudos to you!) In Rome, that has to be the Borromeo Perspective. This beautiful optical illusion is located at the Galleria Spada, a three-minute walk from the Campo de’Fiori market square.
The artist who was commissioned with constructing an illusion for Cardinal Capodiferro’s palace was Francesco Borromini. (The cardinal needed to have his place look larger and more grandiose that it actually was.) The colonnade which resulted from Borromini’s effort looks to be around forty meters long but it is really only a mere ten meters! Note that the Spada Gallery is closed on Tuesdays.
NEXT ARTICLE:
A very different visit to the Trevi Fountain – May 2022
If you tend to be one of those curious types, someone who is always wondering what’s around the next corner or below that grate in the street, then we have a fantastic suggestion for you. Instead of just visiting the gorgeous Trevi Fountain, go underneath it to see the cisterns where the ancient aqueducts have directed the fountain’s water for the last two-thousand years. While you’re down there you’ll also walk through the excavations of of a second-century apartment building. It’s fascinating to say the least, and a great deal at just €4 a person to enter. (Guided tours are offered for less than €10.) The underground entrance is just steps from the fountain. This site is called the City of Water, or Citta dell’Acqua, Vicus Caprarius and is located at #25 Vicolo del Puttarello in Rome. Reservations are always recommended and currently mandatory on the weekends. Note that the site is closed on Mondays. Their hours are 11am to 5pm, and the telephone number from the USA is (011) 39-339-778-6192. So fun!
NEXT ARTICLE:
A visit to Rome’s Trastevere neighborhood – February 2022 update
With so much to see and do on the Rome’s eastern side of the Tiber River, it’s easy to forget that there’s a truly charming area across the way. No, we don’t mean the Vatican. We mean Trastevere… the historic, residential, and very Bohemian area just across the river from the city’s most ancient sights.
If you can make time to go over there, you won’t be disappointed. Have a tasty lunch at one of our favorite restaurants, Tonnarello, which is located only a few street from one of the oldest and most exquisite churches in Rome, the 13th century Basilica Santa Maria in Trastevere. A quick taxi or Metro train can take you there in a jiffy. Don’t miss its underground ruins of the church it was built upon. Amazing!
NEXT ARTICLE:
Plan ahead for the trip of a lifetime – January 2022
You might not think so right now, but travel will be returning in a big way and those who plan now will reap the benefits. As the pandemic fades, try to be one of the first to make a trip to Rome and enjoy it in a blissfully uncrowded way. Try making a detailed yet fluid itinerary without precise dates. Pencil in the days of the week only, noting which of your preferred sights are closed on Sundays or Mondays, etc. This will give you a basic framework on which to build your dream journey.
The more you can plan beforehand, the better it will be. At Clued In Travel Books we are big believers in having reservations at the restaurants we most desire rather than settling for our second or third choices. Dinner reservations are especially likely to fill up if not made in advance. As for the best sights, well, these must be booked ahead (due to the requirements of contactless service.) And with absolutely everyone now booking ahead, these too are more likely to sell out.
Travelers visiting our particular website probably understand this so we won’t beat a dead horse. If you are the type of traveler who likes to go somewhere with no plans or reservations in order to just see where fate takes you, we say, “Good luck and bless your heart.”
So, grab one of our travel books and peruse through it to the end. You’ll be shocked at how a city you knew nothing about is suddenly as familiar as can be. It’s quite magical.
NEXT ARTICLE:
Merry Christmas & Happy New Year!
The folks here at Clued In Travel Books wish you and yours a wonderful and safe holiday season filled with lots of love and lots of food. If you avoid conversations about religion, politics, and mask mandates you’ll be just fine! Let’s hope we get back to some normalcy in 2022, especially in regard to travel. It’s what we live for.
All the best to all of you, Dean & Andie
NEXT ARTICLE:
Our brand new edition for 2022 is on Amazon now! – December 2021
Some things have changed in Italy, but much has stayed the same. We think it’s actually better than ever and are very happy to announce our brand new version of Clued In Rome for 2022. Use the link above to see its dedicated product page because it’s super-fun and has some new surprises. Let’s just call it the best one we’ve ever written!
NEXT ARTICLE:
Doria to hit the big time! – November 2021
The incredible palazzo-turned-Galleria Doria-Pamphilj on via del Corso in Rome will be moving up in the Clued In universe. Formerly featured in our Bored in Rome “experiences” book, it will soon be included in the 2022 edition of our Clued In Rome. While a visit there is definitely a fantastic experience, it’s just too good to not be in our main publication. If you love an historic and opulent mansion (and who doesn’t?) and can appreciate a truly great art collection, then this is your place. A reasonable entry fee, uncrowded timed-reservation slots, and an extremely atmospheric audio guide complete with musical accompaniment await you there. You can visit ten of its one-thousand rooms. It is located just steps from Piazza Venezia so you don’t even have to go out of your way to find it.
NEXT ARTICLE:
Important Update for Rome dining- October 2021
We just got home from Italy and will be making an immediate change to our “Clued In Rome” book which will be republished today on Amazon to reflect it:
Unfortunately, one of our recommended restaurants, I Clementini, has been sold and is under new ownership with the same name, same google info, same pics, etc. We can no longer endorse this restaurant due to the recent changes to their food. As usual, we are the guinea pigs so you don’t have to be! It will not be included in our upcoming new edition of “Clued In Rome” for 2022.
NEXT ARTICLE:
Summer Happenings – July 2021
The Opera di Roma is performing outdoors this summer at the excavation spot of the infamous Circo Massimo. It will have a maximum audience count of one thousand people seated but socially distanced. There will be twenty-six nights of shows which are detailed on their website here. The ballet, Swan Lake, with music by Tchaikovsky, will be presented at the excavations a bit later. All of these performances begin at 9pm which makes having dinner beforehand a little easier.
NEXT ARTICLE:
In Focus: Where to have breakfast when you don’t like what your hotel is offering/ Summer 2021
Okay we admit that Sant’Eustachio il Caffè only has seating in the warmer months because there are no chairs inside this place. But we go there in winter too and just find a cozy spot at the bar. Is it calming? No. Is it unhurried? No. But it’s fun… and it’s the the best coffee in Rome, hands down. Andie loves their custard filled donuts too. Go to the cashier on the right first and tell them what you want, then pay and take your receipt to a baristo. You don’t have to say another word; they will know what you want. Happily, they are open and thriving. You’ll find Sant’Eustachio il Caffè hidden just behind the right side of the Pantheon. Look for the locals.
NEXT ARTICLE:
We’re back! May 2021
Clued In cities all over the place are beginning to come back to life. Because of all the recent positive changes, we have just updated our travel books to be current for summer 2021. We will continue to update them as things change further. In anticipation of future travel, we welcome you back to Rome and to the world!
NEXT ARTICLE:
An ancient basilica under the train station? January 2020
They say in Rome that people can’t dig anywhere without finding ruins of the ancient former city-state below. That’s because Rome is a city on top of a city, on top of another city… That’s precisely what happened about a hundred years ago when the foundation for the city’s famous Termini Train Station was being built. Its rooms were filled with earth but arched areas and doorways were obvious. Twenty of its ancient rooms have finally been cleared out and renovated, artistic frescoes and all, and seem to be that of a basilica. Those who know their history will appreciate the fact that Christian basilicas during the age of Augustus had to be a very new and very rare. Just thirty feet beneath the station, this mysterious place is now open to the public but as of now details on visiting it are sketchy. We will keep you posted.
NEXT ARTICLE:
Where to enjoy an amazing holiday dinner – December 2019
We love having a meal with a festive menu at holiday time, and in Rome that means the Majestic Restaurant in the Hotel Majestic. Special multi-course menus will be offered for dinner on Christmas Eve, lunch on Christmas Day, and on New Year’s Eve as well. All are for a set price that is about half of what the other glam hotels are charging. Book as soon as possible while tables are still available. Note that this beautiful, old-style hotel is north of the city center but easily accessible. Here are their offerings for the Christmas Day lunch:
A welcome aperitif / Mushrooms with beef and truffle / Broccoli and sausage tortelli / Lamb with roman artichoke cream and potato variations / Mandarin orange sorbet with crunchy panettone / An assortment of traditional Christmas desserts
NEXT ARTICLE:
Have a beautiful evening in Rome – November 2019
The Italians invented opera and ballet. This means you should indulge yourself while you’re here. The city’s grand opera house, Teatro dell’Opera, is just the place to enjoy it. These days you can get dressed to the nines or go in your denim because there’s no dress code. They provide subtitles in English which makes understanding the story much easier! During the upcoming holiday season they are presenting Puccini’s masterpiece, Tosca as well as the rarely seen Les Vêpres Siciliennes by Verdi. If you’ll be in Rome after the New Year you’ll be able to enjoy the theater’s ballet company performing Tchaikovsky’s Swan Lake. Whatever your preference, get tickets as soon as possible through their website.
NEXT ARTICLE:
In focus: Singing in the shower – July 2019
Okay maybe not in the shower, but certainly in the baths! It’s that incredible time of year in Rome when professional music, dance, and opera performances are staged al fresco at the ancient Baths of Caracalla. On the schedule are some pretty great ones, even if you think you don’t like classical stuff: La Traviata (opera, July 19 to August 8) – Italian pianist Ludovico Einaudi (concert, July 29) – Romeo and Juliet (ballet, July 30 to August 4) – and opera star Placido Domingo (concert, August 7.) Click to view available tickets here.
NEXT ARTICLE:
New: Night Tours of the Colosseum – May 2019
Yes! You can now take a special guided tour of the Colosseum at night. Tickets can be purchased ahead online at the CoopCulture website for 24€ per person or 3€ for children age 6-12, in a choice of English, Italian, or Spanish. You’ll not only get the place to yourself without all the crowds, you’ll be allowed onto the actual floor of the arena as well as entry into the underground vaults known as the hypogeum (where the gladiators and animals waited to come up.) These areas are not included with the regular daytime ticket. The tour lasts about an hour and the availability changes with the season: From April to October, the night tours are from 8pm to midnight Monday through Saturday… and in November and December the night tours are from 6pm to 10pm on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays. This special visit is not honored or included on the famous Roma Pass. In our opinion, this is far and away the best way to see and appreciate this icon of the city.
NEXT ARTICLE:
In Focus: Where to brunch in Rome – April 2019
April and May bring amazing weather and moderate temperatures to the Eternal City so why not make a celebration of it by enjoying a really delicious brunch… in Rome that means Cafe Canova Tadolini and this is why: the Romans aren’t big on having brunch (or even a hearty breakfast) and prefer to eat light in the morning and then have a typical Italian feast for lunch. Because of this, the so-called brunch spots in the city center are limited. Canova Tadolini, however, is open on Saturdays and Sundays from 8am on and serve their fresh Roman specialties all day. You won’t necessarily find egg dishes, unless you count their authentic spaghetti carbonara (made with eggs,) but they do have some gorgeous salads, a beef carpaccio with raspberries, a giant prosciutto and melon platter, or fresh tuna on arugula to name just a few. The best part? You get to sit among Canova’s sculptures because this was once his artist studio.
NEXT ARTICLE:
In Focus: the Domus Romane/ March 2019
This month we’re featuring local sights that are lesser-known but which are a must-see in our very opinionated view. In Rome, that means the Domus Romane (Roman House) at Palazzo Valentini. Listed as our number one sight it’s obvious how much we love this place. The glorious Domus Romane is nothing less than an underground marvel brought to life with holograms and other high tech lighting. In Rome there are ruins everywhere but if you don’t use your imagination they can look like little more than chunks of rock. And if you’re not a Roman history expert you’ll probably have know idea what you’re looking at. The Domus Romane has changed all that.
Discovered only a few years back, this is Rome’s newest and best sight. Inside you’ll be shown the ruin of a wealthy senator’s 2000-year-old house complete with gym and spa. Then, before your very eyes, it comes alive with the frescoes, tiles, columns, and archways that were once there. In addition, the tour is presented with narration and musical accompaniment. Afterwards you’ll have a much better idea of how the well-heeled locals lived in Imperial Rome. They allow reservations up to three months in advance so be sure to book a tour in your native language before it’s sold out. The entrance is located just opposite Trajan’s Column at Via Foro Traianno 85, Phone (011) 39-06-22-76-12-80. Important details about making your visit there even better can be found in Clued In Rome.
NEXT ARTICLE:
Update on the Vatican Museums/ February 2019
If you’re looking to visit the Vatican Museums (Sistine Chapel) on Monday, February 11th then think again. That date marks a special day of observation for the tiny country and everything there will be closed.
No worries though, just change those plans to a different day and consider doing something different like taking a walking tour of the city’s bohemian Trastevere neighborhood. Local guides will take you through the uncrowded February streets (not so uncrowded in summer!) and provide you with memorable stories of the area. Afterwards, do a little shopping. The small boutiques in Trastevere are unique and definitely worth a browse.
NEXT ARTICLE:
NEXT ARTICLE:
In Focus: Experiencing the Domus Aurea/ September 2018
Rome’s city center has breathtaking “sights” no matter which way you turn; it’s a feast for the senses. The best ones are demystified in our Clued In Rome but there’s one that was not included. (When we went to press, it was closed to tours and boarded shut due to flooding that the city thought would be a permanent problem. Luckily, it has now reopened and you can experience it!) Though it will be featured in our Clued In Rome for 2019, we simply can’t wait to tell our readers about it… we’re speaking of course about Nero’s golden palace, the Domus Aurea, a two hundred room pleasure palace of marble and gold that you’ll never see as you stroll around the city. Built by the infamous Emperor Nero, it was all but covered over with earth by his spiteful successors. (The private pond that was out front was drained and the Colosseum built in its place.) Inside, Nero had a revolving dining room, frescoed walls, grottos, waterfalls, and even secret slots in the ceiling where serfs were positioned to sprinkle perfume or feathers on passers-by below. Truly decadent! Excavations are taking a long time, but you can tour sections of it from Friday through Sunday, booked ahead online. You can also reserve your spot by telephone at 011-39-06-399-67700 from the US, or 06-399-67700 from within Rome. They will inform you of the going rate and whether the tour will be in English or Italian.
NEXT ARTICLE:
In Focus: Hotel Raphael, Rome/ July 2018
This summer we’re featuring some of our favorite hotels and in Rome that means the gorgeous Hotel Raphael. If you want a truly gracious hotel in a very central location of the city-center, then this is the place for you. Near the famous Piazza Navona (and Bernini’s fabulous fountains) their amazing terrace and modern rooms are like the icing on the cake of a great stay in the eternal city. You will feel like you’re staying in a much more expensive property. Check out the link above and start planning your Italian sojourn.
May 2018: Awaiting your upcoming trip
If you’re like us, you like to think about a European sojourn almost as much as going on one! For those dreamers and planners, we thought we’d take a moment to introduce you to our favorite live viewers, Skyline Webcams. Through their terrific website, we’ve watched everything from the celebration for Rome’s newly renovated Spanish Steps, to a 4am professional photo shoot at the Trevi fountain. You just never know what you’re going to see. They have an especially large number of live cams in Rome (some with sound!) so check out the list and start getting excited for your own visit there. If you’re in the USA, remember that Italy is six hours ahead of the east coast and nine hours ahead of the west coast.
In Focus: Museum Night/ May 2018
Planning to be in Rome on Saturday, May 19th? If so, you’re in for a treat. This is when the Night of Museums will take place (throughout Europe) and the Eternal City has more than a few fabulous museums to boast about. This is one of their most important cultural events and many of the city’s museums will remain open late. To celebrate, they’ll be charging only 1€ or offering complimentary admission. In addition, there will be concerts, theaters, workshops, shows, guided tours, games, lighting, dance, food tastings and much more. Such fun!
In Focus: Seasonal Events/ February-March 2018
If you’re planning a visit to the Eternal City in March, you’ve made a fine choice. Rome has the fairest weather coupled with the least crowds during that time. We can’t promise there will be no rain at all, but storms hitting the Eternal City tend to blow past so fast that a quick duck into a pasticceria or café is usually all it takes to get past it. We love Rome when it’s free from the the gazillions of tourists who descend on it during the summer months, and believe a city can best be explored in the off-season when you can easily breeze right into sights that in August would take you half a day to get into. In addition, airfares and hotel rates are great.
Of course, it does matter precisely when in March one goes. Many pilgrims visit Rome the week prior to Easter where special events at the Vatican are ongoing. In 2018, the holiday falls on April 1st. For this reason, Holy Thursday and Good Friday (March 29th & 30th) will bring out the masses. On the other hand, if you don’t mind navigating the crowds you could have a very memorable experience attending mass at St. Peter’s Basilica during such a time. All are welcome; you certainly don’t have to be Catholic to attend (or admire) all the pomp and circumstance.
Also, the Rome Marathon –which is usually scheduled in late March– has been moved to April 7th for 2018, no doubt because of Easter falling on April 1st. It takes runners past most of the major sights- something you may want to be aware of. But throughout most of March, Lenten processions are many and give visitors a taste of the local culture. On the Ides of March (the 15th) commemoration of Julius Caesar’s death will be taking place by his statue near the Roman Forum. Out best advice is to make sure the timing of your visit matches up with your own interests. As the temperatures can vary between 40 to 62 degrees, just be prepared to layer your clothing.
Clued In Travel Books 2026 