Fountains and Piazza Piazza Navona, Piazza del Panteon, Campo dei Fiori… they are the heart of historical Rome and their beauty is astonishing. Even if the mythical Fontana di Trevi is currently undergoing restoration work, do not miss to observe the details of the many fountains you will encounter. Renaissance sculptors seemed to have a vivid imagination when it comes to angry animals!

SPQR No need for a time machine, just walking around the Forum or the Colosseum will take you back to the greatest hours of the Roman Empire.  You will soon become familiar with the four letters SPQR,  that are written all over town. The city’s motto means Senatus Populusque Romanus (The Senate and People of Rome).

Gelati per tutti Whether you choose to go for a traditional option at Giolitti or a more creative at Sweety Gelato, Italian ice creams are an offer you cannot refuse!

Secret panoramas Rome was built on the legendary 7 hills and they are the perfect observation spot. Climb the Gianicolo Hill to be rewarded with an amazing view, or the Capitol (Campidoglio) to get a perfect observation spot on the Roman Forum. For an even more secret view, try the “keyhole” of  the Priory of the Knights of Malta on the Aventine Hill.

Churches There are over 900 churches in Rome, and even the most modest looking ones can hide some unsuspected treasures. So just push the doors, you never know what you will find! Incredible ceilings, masterpieces paintings… or even a crypt made entirely of bones.

Tiber Summer Festival During summertime the banks of the Tiber are the place to be after dark. Explore the many shops, restaurants and bars, or watch a movie at the Tiber Island open air film festival. Also Rome summer nights wouldn’t be complete without AperoI Spritz, a traditional Italian bitter-sweet cocktail.

Food, food, food! Pasta, pizza, tiramisu… who doesn’t love Italian food? If you avoid the main touristic areas you will find plenty of options for a delicious meal at a very affordable price. Look out for restaurants where you see some local families. And did I mention ice creams?

Get lost in Trastevere old streets Trastevere or “Beyond the Tiber” is the colorful West Bank of Rome which  attracts a growing number of visitors. The best way to discover it is to get lost in its vibrant and authentic cobblestone streets. You can easily reach it by crossing one of the city bridges such as the Ponte Sisto .

Rooftop Sunsets Rooftops and terraces are a must during summer. Enjoy an aperitivo with a breathtaking view on the Eternal city at the Casina Valadier, a beautiful mansion in the Villa Borghese park.

Enjoy a day at the beach Need a break from the city hot streets ? Ostia beach is only half an hour away from central Rome and accessible for 2 euros from the Porta San Paolo train station (get out at Lido Centro). Most beaches are private but you can rent a sun lounger and umbrella for a reasonable fee.

Hope you found some inspiration for your next Roman getaway… and do not hesitate to share your own tips in the comments ! Baci, baci,baci !

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GIOLITTI : Via Uffici del Vicario, 40 http://www.giolitti.it/

SWEETY GELATO : Via del Biscione, 9  http://www.sweetygelato.com/

THE SECRET “KEYHOLE” : Piazza dei Cavalieri di Malta, 4

TIBER SUMMER FESTIVAL (Lungo il Tevere Roma) : http://www.lungoiltevereroma.it/

CASINA VALADIER : Piazza Bucarest   http://www.casinavaladier.com/