Venture to the Vatican Museums

When visiting Rome, a trip to the Vatican is a must. While not technically in Rome – Vatican City is actually a principality – it's just a short trip from the city center, and the Vatican Museums are one of the most popular landmarks in the whole of Rome. The museums, which are split into several different sections, house more than 70,000 works of art, although the buildings are work of art themselves!

You'll be spellbound as you wander around the various ornate rooms, each more incredible than the last. It's fitting then that the final flourish of the Vatican Museum is the world famous Sistine Chapel, complete with Michelangelo's fresco... eyes to the ceiling, jaw to the floor!

The queues can be a nightmare, of course! I recommend thinking ahead and getting a skip the line ticket for the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel. It's a much more relaxing way to experience one of the world's most astonishing art museums.

Explore the Vatican Gardens

Once you've taken in the majestic beauty of the Vatican Museum and the Sistine Chapel, a bit of tranquility is in order. These ornate botanical gardens take up most of the whole of Vatican City and are welcome respite from the hustle and bustle of the Vatican Museum.

Sculptures, medieval monuments, floral artworks and ornate fountains make up these gardens, which were first opened to the public in 2014. It's well worth a visit, especially in spring time when the colors of the freshly bloomed flowers add to the beauty of the surroundings.

If you want to experience the gardens in their true beauty, book a private tour. You could even combine a Vatican Gardens minibus tour with a skip the line ticket to the museum.

Climb the Dome at St Peter's Basilica

The other essential Vatican landmark, St Peter's Basilica is one of the most iconic churches in the world. Known in Rome as the 'Basilica di San Pietro', it's the spiritual center of the Catholic church and one of the architectural wonders of the modern world.

Attractions within the Basilica include La Pieta (the only work of art that Michelangelo ever signed) the altar with its stunning baroque Roman architecture style bronze canopy and, of course, the famous dome – at 448 feet, the tallest dome in the world.

A guided tour of St Peter's Basilica will your experience to a whole new level – literally! You'll climb the stairs to the very top of the dome, enjoying stunning panoramic views of St Peter's Square and the whole of Rome. With a guided tour, you'll also get insights from an art historian to unlock the secret history of the jewel in the Catholic crown.

Roam the Roman Forum

In a city full of stunning ancient landmarks, the Roman Forum could well be the most stunning ancient landmark of all. The partly-preserved beating heart to the Roman Empire, it served as the centerpiece to Ancient Rome and was the setting for famous speeches (Marc Antony's famous speech on the death of Julius Cesar took place at the Forum), trials, processions, gatherings and Roman public life in general.

It's best to think of the Roman Forum like an open air museum. As you wander around the 5 acre space, the past glories of the ancient empire rise from the ruins to give you a glimpse into the daily lives of the Romans, as well as the sheer spectacular style of the center of the city. The Arch of Titus, The Temple of Vesta and the Temple of Saturn are just some of the highlights at the Roman Forum.

For the full story behind these ancient remnants of the Roman Empire, book a guided tour of the Roman Forum, or get an interesting take with a tour centered around the less-known story of the role women of ancient Rome played in Roman society. You can also take a double deep dive into Ancient Rome, with a Roman Forum and Colosseum tour.

Marvel at the Trevi Fountain

A stunning 85-foot tall fountain located right in the heart of Rome, the Trevi Fountain is one of the post popular things to do in Rome. Originally built by the Ancient Romans as a meeting point of the city's three sources of water (hence Trevi, which means three way), it underwent a massive reconstruction, with architects Nicola Salvi and Giuseppe Pannini completing the project.

The appeal of the Trevi Fountain lies is its importance as both an artistic and historical monument. From an artistic perspective, it looks incredible. The ornate sculptures tell a story of the Greek god Oceanus battling to tame the power of the sea. Historically, it's Rome's oldest water source.

Book a Trevi Fountain guided tour, which includes expert insights from a local, as well as and underground tour to the still-functioning 2,000-year old aqueduct.

Unless you're a serious night owl and you visit it in the wee small hours, don't expect to find the Trevi Fountain a solitary, relaxing place. It's pretty much packed full of tourists from dawn until dusk, so you'll be in good company as you feast your eyes on the beauty of Rome's most famous fountain.

Take in the Sunset on the Spanish Steps

Built between 1723 and 1725, the Spanish Steps were actually commissioned by a French diplomat. So they should be the French Steps, right? Well, not exactly. The name comes from the fact that the Spanish embassy used to be nearby and that the square at the foot of the steps is called Piazza di Spagna (Spain Square). The Spanish Steps is an unofficial name, though – the official name is Scalinata della Trinità dei Monti.

Made up of 135 steps, the Spanish Steps are located near Italy's most famous shopping street – Via Condotti – and are the widest and longest set of stairs in Europe. Part of the appeal of this famous attraction is the view from the top – climb the steps and you'll be rewarded with a picturesque panoramic view of the City of Seven Hills, as Rome is often called. If you can, time it so that you can see the sun go down from the top of the steps!

Another little tip... if you're visiting Rome during the spring, the steps will be adorned with thousands of decorative colorful flowers to celebrate the season – sure to put a 'spring' in your step!

Take a Romantic Cruise Down the River Tiber

The Romans literally invented the word romance and it doesn't get much more romantic than a nighttime riverboat cruise down the Tiber – the city's famous river, where you'll be able to gaze in awe at the beauty of the Rome from the serenity of the water.

It's a far more peaceful way to see the sights than a daytime bus tour – the night setting adds the glistening golden lights reflecting off the water, making Rome's views all the more breathtaking – and it's a great way to escape the intensity of the city center, while appreciating it from afar.

You can prebook a River Tiber Panoramic Night Cruise that comes with a 4-course dinner and live music, as well as a guided tour as you pass some of the city's most iconic locations, including St Peter's Basilica and Vatican City. To see Rome at night in all its glory, with the lights reflecting off the Tiber, is a special experience!

Enjoy an Open Air Opera

Speaking of romance, one of the most romantic things to do in Rome is to catch a live opera performance. A uniquely thrilling experience, live opera captures the timeless magic of the city of Rome, and what better place to see it than from a rooftop in Rome?

One of the most special operatic offerings in the city is the Open Air Opera Concert held at the Pamphilj Palace – a baroque masterpiece located next to Piazza Navona. The Palace's rooftop is known as 'The Great Beauty' roof terrace and is the setting for a famous scene from the Oscar-winning film of the same name.

Expect arias & duets by Verdi, Rossini, Puccini , together with an Italian aperitifs, wine and a stunning 360° view of the whole of the Eternal City – a fitting backdrop to an art form that comes closest to expressing pure emotion. It's a spine-tingling experience and one that shouldn't be missed by romantics and music-lovers alike.

Step onto the Arena at the Colosseum

Nothing else in this city epitomizes the splendor and drama of Ancient Rome quite like the Colosseum. It makes the list of most people's places to see in Rome, Italy and even the world! Step through the stone doors and you're immediately transport back in time, your imagination running wild with tales of armored gladiators fighting exotic animals... savage and cruel, yes, but fascinating nonetheless.

From the outside and on the inside, it's truly a sight to behold. However, to really get the best out of a visit to the Colosseum, get out onto the 'arena'. The floor of the colosseum was covered in sand (harena, or arena in Latin, hence the word 'arena' for stadiums) to soak up the spilled blood. Gruesome, yet it's from this vantage point that the colossal craziness of the Colosseum really starts to sink in.

With a guided underground tour of the Colosseum, you'll be able to see parts of the the ancient stadium that are usually restricted on a guided walking tour, exploring the dungeons, underground tunnels and chambers of the Colosseum, with special access to the arena floor.

Get Spooked in the Roman Catacombs

For all Rome's elegance above ground, it's the underside that delivers a deeper insight into the grisly history of the ancient city. The subterranean secrets of the city are found in passageways that predate even the Romans – they were carved out by the Etruscans thousands of years ago for mining limestone and sandstone. Here you'll find some of the oldest catacombs in the world, where the Roman's buried their dearly departed for several centuries.

The most infamous 'attraction' of the Roman Catacombs is the Capuchin Crypt – a macabre masterpiece that's decorated with the bones of 4,000 Capuchin Monks. However, it's not all grim and gruesome curiosities – the Catacombs also contain one of the most valuable artworks collections in the world, including pieces by Caravaggio and other Ancient Christian art.

A tour of Rome's crypts and catacombs is a great way to see the darker side of the Eternal City. If you're searching for an alternative to the art galleries and iconic landmarks, away from all the typical things to do in Rome, a trip down under to the Catacombs might just be the perfect activity for you.

Get Lost in Culture at the Borghese Art Gallery

You'll find Rome's world famous art museum, the Borghese, set among lush green gardens and manicured lawns of Vila Borghese – the largest public park in central Rome. It's a quiet oasis and a welcome break from the intensity of the city, and the elegant exterior of the art gallery hints at the artistic treasure trove that awaits on the inside.

The artworks on show were put together by Cardinal Scipione Borghese – the pope's right hand man at the turn of the 17th century. The cultured cardinal was a committed collector of Caravaggio, Canova and Raphael, among others, and while the collection of paintings is well worth the entry price, it's the sculptures that really take the breath away, particularly those by Bernini. Don't miss his flat out marble masterpiece “Daphne and Apollo” which depicts the Greek myth of the fated lovers.

Keep in mind... walk-ins are not welcome and pre-booking in advance is a must. Better yet, book yourself a guided tour and benefit from the walkthrough wisdom of a local art buff, with skip-the-line access to avoid the crowds.

Sample Local Produce at the Campo de Fiori

Not far from the renowned Piazza Navona, you'll find the oldest market in Rome – the Campo dei Fiori, or the 'field of flowers.' Not only is it the oldest market in the city, it's also the most picturesque and it's hugely popular, with locals and visitors alike. Here, you can buy fresh local produce such as fruit, vegetables, meat, poultry and fresh fish, while the square is surrounded by specialty food shops, bakeries and artisan workshops selling all kinds of Roman trinkets.

During the day, Campo dei Fiori is vibrant, colorful and abuzz with locals – the perfect place to people watch and soak in the atmosphere of the Eternal City. Come the evening, it transforms into a far more festive place, with hip locals, foodies and adventurous tourists gathering to sample street food, drink cocktails and enjoy the unique atmosphere of Rome at night.

For those looking to rub shoulder with the locals and live life like a Roman, a nighttime Campo dei Fiori food, wine and sightseeing tour is the perfect activity. You'll take a stroll through the square and Rome's Jewish quarter, as your guide tells you about the history of the area and takes you to the best family-run eateries in the city, where you'll sample some of the best food and wine Rome has to offer.

Be Amazed by the Pantheon

Without a doubt one of Rome's most iconic landmarks, the Pantheon is one of the best preserved ancient structures in the world. Often imitated, never bettered, the pillar front makes it one of the most recognizable buildings in the world. Even if you've never heard of it, you've most definitely seen buildings inspired by its style.

The Pantheon was built almost 2,000 years ago – 118 AD to be precise – by Emperor Hadrian as a temple for Roman's to worship. Inside you'll find an incredible ornate interior, with marble flooring, stone patterns, intricate carvings and an astonishing dome that's the biggest masonry dome in the world.

While the sight of this ancient marvel is enough to take the breath away, the deeper story of the construction and preservation of the Pantheon is fascinating. For history buffs, a Pantheon tour is highly recommended – you'll get valuable insights from a professional archaeologist and hear stories of Roman architects and engineers, saints and emperors, politicians and soldiers, while discovering the Pantheon's ancient Roman symbols and architectural traditions.

Escape the Hustle and Bustle at Castel Gandolfo

For all Rome's beauty, sight seeing in the city can be tiring. Luckily, there's a nearby haven that offers the perfect chance to escape the busy city. Located just 25 km southeast of Rome, the picture postcard-perfect village of Castel Gandolfo is nestled in the Roman hills, overlooking Lake Albano, and just happens to be the Papal summer residence. Hey, if it's good enough for the Pope...

Of course, the Papal Palace is the pick of the bunch, with its beautiful furnishings and landscaped gardens, but there are many more attractions at Castel Gandolfo. The village center has gorgeous lakeside views, where you can grab a bite to eat from Piazza della Libertà's cafes or restaurants.

You can purchase a guide packagethat includes transport by train, a skip-the-line ticket to Castel Gandolfo, the Apostolic Palace and the Barberini Gardens, as well as an audio tour of the Castel and the Gardens. All in all, well worth a visit!

Uncover Secrets at Castel Sant'Angelo

What began as a burial place for Roman Emperors almost 2,000 years ago, Castel Sant'Angelo has since become a fortress, a prison, the Pope's hideout and, finally a monument to Rome's history.

See former residences of past popes, admire artwork by the likes of Raphael and Michelangelo, gain an insight into Rome's evolution over the past 2,000 years, and enjoy what might just be the best panoramic view in the whole city. There are seemingly endless secrets and stories to be discovered within the castle's walls and, in terms of all-round insights into the history of Rome, it's one of the city's best and most informative landmarks.

It's also one of the busiest, so a skip-the-line tour is highly recommended. You'll whizz past the crowds for a deep dive into the story of this multi-functional historical wonder, before hearing stories of battles, executions, artful masterpieces and religious refuge, before enjoying a scenic stop on the Castle's rooftop, for that epic view over the River Tiber and the entire city.

Take the Train from Rome to Pompeii

For those looking to spread their experience outside of the Eternal City, a train trip to one of the most astonishing archaeological sites in Europe is in order. A fascinating reminder of the unforgiving power of nature, Pompeii's part-preserved ruins lie in the aftermath of the Mount Vesuvius eruption of almost 2,000 years ago. Walking around the site is an incredible experience – essential for anyone with even a passing interest in history or a mind for the macabre.

An all-inclusive VIP day trip by train from Rome to Pompeii is the best way to experience this historical wonder with all the logistics and stress taken out of the equation. The high speed train from Rome to Naples, then from Naples to Pompeii takes a little over 1 hour 30 minutes, and you can sit back and enjoy the views in air-conditioned comfort. Meanwhile, the day trip includes a wine tasting and farm-to-table lunch at a local vineyard at the foot of Mount Vesuvius.

Ride Around Rome on a Vespa

Forget crowded bus tours – the very best way to get a whistle-stop tour of Rome is via the sidecar of a Vespa! Take a guided Vespa sidecar tour and you'll be able to explore Rome like a local, taking in the stunning scenery and Eternal City's most iconic landmarks as you whizz around cobbled streets and through picturesque plazas.

The Colosseum, St Peter's Basilica, Piazza Navona, the Trevi Fountain, the Spanish Steps – you'll see all the major sights, before stopping off for coffee and a gelato while enjoying breathtaking views of the city from the top of Palatine Hill. These kind of tour experiences have that extra personalised touch, and you'll get a live narration through headphones as you ride along, giving you valuable insights into each of Rome's top attractions.

If you're looking for a fun, intimate, unforgettable experience in Rome, this should definitely be on your list of things to do!

Watch a performance at St. Paul's Within The Walls Church

St. Paul's within the Walls Church is a historic Anglican church located in the heart of Rome, Italy. Built in the 19th century, it features stunning Gothic Revival architecture, including intricate stained glass windows and ornate marble columns.

The church has a vibrant community and hosts a variety of cultural events throughout the year, so if there is nothing on at the Teatro dell'Opera di Roma, you can get your dose of culture at this venue. We watched a rendition of La Traviata!

Gorge on gelato!

You simply can't miss it. On just about every street corner you will find a gelato shop, offering a wide array of flavours that will please every palate on this planet. For more information, check out my article on the Best Foods To Try In Rome!

Explore Monumento a Vittorio Emanuele II

The Monumento a Vittorio Emanuele II is a massive white marble monument located in Rome, Italy. It was built between 1885 and 1911 to honor the first king of a united Italy, Vittorio Emanuele II. The monument features an impressive colonnade, a statue of the king on horseback, and a terrace with panoramic views of Rome.

Entry is free but museum exhibitions aren't. Another paid option is to take the lift the top of the building to take in awesome views of Rome's city scape.

Discover Basilica Papale di Santa Maria Maggiore

After a few days in Rome you might feel over saturated with old big buildings and then you discover yet another one and get blown away. We were on our way to the Coliseum when we wondered what people were doing have their bags x-rayed at this big building. Is it a city hall? Or something to do with the government? No, it's another church!

Basilica Papale di Santa Maria Maggiore is a large and historic Catholic church in Rome, Italy. It is one of the four major basilicas in the city and is dedicated to the Virgin Mary. The basilica boasts impressive architecture and artwork, including the famous 5th-century mosaics in the nave.

Pizza Al Taglio

Translating literally as "pizza by the cut," pizza al taglio is one of Rome's most famous dishes and pretty much the perfect street food. This is a special variety of pizza that's different than the standard kind – the dough is rich, thick and crunchy, and the pizza is made in large rectangular trays, so it can be easily cut into small portions for eating on the go.

You'll be able to sample pizza al taglio and other street food delights on a street food, wine and walking tour, which takes you through the history of Roman cuisine while you get lost in the sights and sensations of central Rome.

Pizza Bianca

Sometimes, simplicity is bliss. Ideal for those whose taste are a little less on the saucy side, pizza bianca is made without tomato sauce and with minimal toppings. Roman pizza bianca consists of freshly baked focaccia topped with quality olive oil, salt and herbs such as rosemary.

It's all about simple ingredients that combine for maximum effect. In Rome, few do pizza bianca better than Casa Manco – a family run pizzaria in the Testaccio neighborhood.

Pasta alla Carbonara

Probably the most famous of all Roman pasta dishes, pasta alla carbonara is a lusciously rich and creamy dish using only a few simple ingredients – pasta, eggs, hard cheese, cured pork and freshly ground black pepper. The cheese is usually Parmigiano-Reggiano or grated Pecorino Romano cheese (or a combination of the two) and the pork is usually guanciale – a tender cured meat typically used in Roman cuisine.

A simple, humble dish, carbonara highlights the beauty of fresh ingredients working together in perfect harmony. Learn about carbonara and other classic Roman dishes on a Rome Trastevere food tour.

Fettuccine alfredo

A world-famous dish that dates back almost 100 years, Rome's Fettuccine Alfredo combines simple handmade pasta with butter, parmesan cheese and pepper. Three simple ingredients, yet the taste is sublime.

Invented by Alfredo Di Lelio in 1908, apparently for his wife who had lost her appetite after giving birth, Fettuccine Alfredo became world renowned after Hollywood stars Douglas Fairbanks and Mary Pickford came to Rome on their honeymoon. They fell in love with the dish and word quickly spread around Hollywood about the delicious pasta dish.

The famous restaurant that created the dish – Il Vero Alfredo – still serves the famous dish to this day! You can even take a cooking course at Il Vero Alfredo and learn how the authentic dish is prepared.

Cacio e pepe

Leonardo Da Vinci once said "simplicity is the ultimate sophistication." Well, Leo wasn't wrong, and this dish proves his point. Translating as 'cheese and pepper', cacio e pepe consists of spaghetti (or, more traditionally, tonnarelli) grated pecorino romano cheese, black pepper and olive oil.

Its beautiful simplicity has made it one the trendiest pasta dishes in recent years, but there's nothing like trying it in a restaurant in Rome. Visit the charming al42 homestyle venue for the best cacio e pepe in town.

Gnocchi alla Romana

Gnocchi alla romana – gnocchi Roman style – is different from the potato kind. It's traditionally made with semolina, milk, butter, parmesan and pepper, layered in large discs then baked in the oven.

The result is surprisingly light, considering the pure comfort food quality. You'll find it on taverna and restaurant menus throughout the city.

Ravioli

While ravioli is more common in northern Italy than it is in Rome, you'll still find many Roman restaurants that specialize in their own version of these classic Italian pasta pockets.

Trattoria Monti offers excellent service, charming ambience and ravioli to die for. Fancy making your own? Take a ravioli cooking class in Rome and learn from a local chef how to make the perfect ravioli.

Pasta alla Gricia

A luscious dish with roots in the Lazio region of Rome, pasta alla gricia is another pasta in which the magic comes from simple ingredients and precise preparation. Pecorino romano, freshly ground black pepper and guanciale (smoked pork cheek) make for a terrifically tasty trio, while the pasta (usually spaghetti or rigatoni) holds everything together.

Pasta alla gricia is said to have ancient origins – apparently Romans were tucking into it as far back as 400AD!

Trippa alla romana

Trippa alla Roman is one of Roman cuisine's most distinguished 'Quinto Quarto' dishes – literally 'fifth quarter', a reference to the idea that offal can be extremely valuable and overlooked in cooking.

Translating as 'Roman tripe', trippa alla romana is typically a Saturday lunchtime dish – you'll find it served up in many traditional trattorias throughout the city. A simple, humble dish, there are two ingredients that make the flavor really sing – pecorino romano and wild mint.

Allesso di Bollito

One of the tastiest traditional dishes to eat in Rome, allesso di bollito is a classic meat dish that consists of simmered beef chunks served in a sublime sandwich. The secret is to soak the freshly baked bread in the meat juices, taking the flavor to a whole new level.

You can learn to cook this and other Roman classics in a small group cooking lesson in Rome. You'll buy all the ingredients from local markets, chatting with the farmers and vendors about what Roman produce so special. Then you'll learn from a top local chef about how to cook authentic Roman food.

Porchetta

The pride of Rome, Porchetta is a bona fide pork sensation, stuffed with herbs, seasoned with salt, slow roasted and served with a tall frosty one. Head to Bono Bottega Nostrana in the San Pietro district for some knockout Porchetta served alongside seriously tasty street food.

Fancy getting to know the history of this delicious dish? Do your tastebuds a flavor favor and sample some local porchetta as part of a Rome food tour focused on the Trastevere and Campo de Fiori parts of the city. You'll get some insider knowledge to go with this incredible authentic Roman street food classic.

Pollo alla Cacciatora

Known as 'hunter's chicken' to you and me, pollo alla cacciatora is a big, hearty, rustic dish. Traditionally served as peasant food, but nowadays served to anyone with good taste and a healthy appetite, it's flavored with herbs such as rosemary and sage, as well as garlic, peppers and – the all-important deal clincher – a good quality red wine.

This feels like the kind of dish best served for a long lazy lunch in a cozy Roman restaurant. Try I Buoni Amici Roma, a comfy old-school joint that's just a stone's throw from the Colosseum.

Saltimbocca alla Romana

Typically served as a second dish following a pasta starter, saltimbocca alla romana consists of thin slices of veal combined with prosciutto and sage, and quickly fried in butter, then finished with a flourish of freshly ground black pepper.

The flavor jumps in your mouth – hence the name 'saltimbocca' (literally, jumps in mouth). Best served as part of a three-course feast, with good wine and good company in the center of the Eternal City.

Polpette al Sugo

A meatballs dish to die for, polpette al sugo is pure comfort food, Italian style. The sumptuous flavor comes courtesy of a mixture meat (typically beef and pork), herbs, garlic, and mountains of cheese (pecorino romano and parmesan, standard). The meatballs, or polpettes are then slow cooked in a silky tomato sauce for maximum flavor.

Learn how to make pristine polpettes with a private cooking class in a local's home in Rome. Talk about 'when in Rome, do as the Romans do'!

Filetti di Baccalà Fritti

Little bites of deep fried heaven, filetti di baccalá fritti is a famous Roman street food that you'll find in many fast food joints in Rome.

It's essentially simple deep fried battered cod, but the magic comes from the preparation – the cod fillets are soaked for hours beforehand to reduce the salt and tenderize the fish, and the batter is made using local sparkling water for a light, crispy texture.

Guazzetto di Pesce

From light and crispy to rich and hearty – guazetto di pesce is a comforting fish stew with big bold flavors and a Roman rustic charm. Traditionally, a mix of monkfish and swordfish is used, along with flavors such as garlic, fresh tomatoes, basil, laurel and white wine.

For the finest of fine dining, head to La Rosetta – one of the best seafood restaurants in Rome, or for something a little more homely, check out the old-world charms of Mamma Angelina. Both serve up proper Roman guazetto di pesce that you won't forget!

Carciofi alla Romana

One of the finest local vegetarian specialities, carciofi alla romana is a tender and juicy dish that's best enjoyed between February and April, when romanesco artichokes are in season.

The artichokes are soaked in lemon water to soften them, before being stuffed with a mixture of mint, black pepper and garlic, then tightly packed in a saucepan to steam until tender and delicious. Serve with a chilled white and enjoy on a terazza, as you watch the world go by.

Supplì

Rome's take on the humble Sicilian favorite, arancini, supplí (also known as supplí al telefono) is one of Rome's most iconic street food dishes. Traditionally, it's made with rice, tomato sauce and mozzarella, then breaded and deep fried for a truly delicious balance of flavor.

The name is typical of the Roman sense of humor when it comes to naming their most beloved dishes – 'supplí' meaning surprise and 'al telefono' referring to the fact that, when broken open, the stringy mozzarella between the two halves of the ball makes it look like an old-fashioned telephone.

Stuffed Zucchini Flowers

Zucchini flowers are plentiful in Rome. They are stuffed with mozzarella or ricotta and then deep fried. On some menus stuffed squash flowers are also available, which I'm yet to try. Pure bliss if you ask me!

Spinaci alla Romana

A fresh and tasty typical Roman side dish, spinaci alla romana is a mix of seasonal spinach, toasted pine nuts, raisins and extra virgin olive oil. Although you'll see it served up in trattorias from April until December, it's a particularly common dish come Christmas time.

Concia di Zucchine

Another traditional Roman side dish, this one has its roots firmly in Jewish cuisine. Roman zucchinis, olive oil, mint, parsley and garlic combine for a dish that's first fried, then baked for maximum flavor.

Maritozzi

These sweet doughy whipped cream-filled honey-flavored breads can be found in pastry shops and cafés throughout Rome. If you're in the mood for a big messy indulgent breakfast, maritozzi is a mid-morning must – and the Italian coffee on the side is practically obligatory.

Another of those iconic Roman foods that comes with an amusing name, maritozzi loosely translates as 'little husbands', named after the young men who would give them as marriage proposal gifts to young ladies hundreds of years ago.

Tiramisù

The perfect pick me up for those with a taste for chocolate, coffee and cream, tiramisù literally translates as 'pick me up.' Making this classic Italian dessert the authentic way is an art form – learn how to make your own with a Rome tiramisù class – and it's practically ever-present at most good restaurants in the Eternal City.

Made from mascarpone, cocoa powder, strong coffee and, crucially, a good dash of quality cognac or rum, true tiramisù is a decadent delight.

Eggplants galore

Rome offers a variety of eggplant dishes, including Melanzane alla Parmigiana, a baked eggplant and tomato casserole with cheese; Pasta alla Norma, a pasta dish with eggplant, tomatoes, and ricotta cheese; and Caponata, a sweet and sour eggplant relish served as an appetizer. Other options include grilled eggplant and eggplant stuffed with meat or cheese.

Carciofi alla Giudia

Carciofi alla Giudia is a traditional Jewish-Roman dish that originated in Rome's Jewish ghetto. The dish consists of artichokes that are deep-fried until crispy and golden brown, resulting in a delicate and flavorful texture. The artichokes are typically served with a sprinkle of salt and lemon juice and make for a delicious appetizer or side dish.

Cherry Crostata

Cherry crostata is a popular dessert in Rome, typically made with a flaky pastry crust and filled with juicy, fresh cherries. The dessert is often served with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. It's a delicious and quintessentially Italian way to end a meal in Rome.

Osso Buco

Osso buco is a classic Milanese dish that can be found in many Roman restaurants. The dish consists of veal shanks braised in a flavorful broth with vegetables, white wine, and tomatoes. The meat becomes incredibly tender and is typically served with a gremolata of lemon zest, garlic, and parsley. It's a comforting and satisfying meal.