Giada's Guide to Rome
Known as the Eternal City, there’s no better place to get a sense of Italy’s sprawling history than Rome. Where else can you find ancient ruins among bustling city streets and Renaissance masterpieces next to avant-garde art? Giada’s home city was made for walking, and the best way to enjoy it is to stroll the cobblestoned streets to take in all those contrasts. Standing in the middle of the Colosseum, you'll come face-to-face with the fact that people have been walking these same city streets for thousands of years.
Whether you’re traveling with family, friends, or solo, Rome is the ideal destination for anyone who wants a taste of everything that Italy has to offer.
Getting Around
As the country’s capital, Rome is home to Italy’s largest international airport, Fiumicino Leonardo da Vinci (Code: FCO). You can get direct flights here from many major cities in the U.S. and connect through here to smaller regional airports across Italy. This makes Rome a great home base from which to start a trip through Italy. One of the best ways to get to other destinations in Italy is by train; the massive Rome Termini station has 29 platforms that serve 800 trains a day to all parts of the country and the rest of Europe. Also at Termini is the center of Rome’s limited metro system, which operates on three lines. Though it’s the smallest such system in Europe, the metro does have stops near most of the main tourist destinations. The best way to get around the city is on foot or by taxi, which is well-regulated and easy to use. Taxi stands can be found at busy points around the city; hotels and restaurants can always call you a cab; and you can use the Uber app to hail either a taxi or a luxury car.
Eat
Fatamorgana
After many, many taste tests, Giada and Jade decided that this local chain has the absolute best gelato in Rome. With its rotating list of all natural flavors both classic (stracciatella, hazelnut) and creative (banana and sesame brittle, pink grapefruit and horseradish), you could visit every day and never get bored.
GROM
Wherever you go in Rome, you’re never too far from a branch of this widespread Italian gelato chain that started in Turin. It’s reliably delicious, with flavors like extra-dark chocolate and mango tart. Their signature flavor, crema di Grom, is a crowd-pleasing blend of creamy custard, chocolate pieces, and piemontese meliga cookies.
Otaleg
The name may be gelato spelled backward, but this shop is nothing less than straightforward. In fact, the whole gelato-making process is on display here, so you can watch the masters at work. Giada loves their bold, interesting flavor combinations, like gorgonzola with white chocolate and hazelnuts and passionfruit with cocoa nibs.
Antico Forno Roscioli
Nobody does it better than Roscioli, who have been making bread off the Campo de’ Fiori for half a century. The bakery is Giada’s first stop when she arrives in Rome for their crispy, soul-satisfying pizza bianca with mortadella. It’s part of a complex of businesses run by the Roscioli family on the block, including a café and pasticceria and Salumeria Roscioli, a restaurant and deli where you can buy that fabulous mortadella by the kilo.
Barnum Café
This cute, modern café serves the best cappuccino and American-style pour over coffee from small artisan roasters, a rarity in Italy. But it’s not just about the coffee! Their baked goods are just as thoughtfully made, and the chocolate cornetti in particular are divine. A great stop just off Corso Vittorio Emanuele II for breakfast, brunch, or a quick caffeine fix.
Ciampini
You can’t beat the people-watching from a table on the piazza outside this historic café that dates back to the 1940s. Giada’s go-to order is a cappuccino with a gianduja-filled cornetto, but if you’re passing by in the afternoon, be sure to try their Ciampini cocktail, a Negroni riff created here some 70 years ago.
Forno Campo de Fiori
If you find yourself in the Campo de’ Fiori around breakfast or lunch time, stop by this little bakery to grab a quick bite to enjoy on the piazza. Their light pizza bianca and savory pizza rossa always hit the spot, and their breads are always perfectly crisp and golden.
Ai Tre Scalini
This 130-year-old wine bar in Monti, a gem of a neighborhood near the city center, is a favorite with locals. With a warm, welcoming atmosphere, more than 300 wines to choose from, and a small list of delicious snacks to accompany your vino, it’s the perfect place to start your evening. Get there early or be prepared to wait for a seat – they don’t take reservations. Luckily, waiting on the ivy-draped terrace is never a chore!
Antico Caffè del Moro
Ancient stone archways line the walls of this cozy wine bar and restaurant in Trastevere, said to be one of the oldest in Rome. They make wonderful cocktails in addition to their 360-bottle wine list, making this a great spot for a hearty aperitivo before dinner.
Open Baladin
Craft beer fans can’t miss this cheerful pub near the Campo de’ Fiori, where more than 100 Italian beers are on offer every day, 40 of them on tap. Pair your brews with one of their wonderfully hearty sandwiches—their burger is Giada’s pick for best in the city!
Salotto 42
This local-favorite bar near the Trevi Fountain has laid-back vibes, comfy armchairs, and creative cocktails. What more could you ask for? Cozy up with a friend inside the dimly lit room, or get a seat outside on the piazza to enjoy your aperitivo with a side of people-watching.
Ambasciata d’Abruzzo
If your travels aren’t taking you to the gorgeous eastern Italian region of Abruzzo, a meal at this restaurant is the next best thing. Located in the upscale Parioli neighborhood north of the Villa Borghese, it’s been family-owned since 1960 specializing in food from Abruzzo and Rome. You can’t go wrong with any of the lamb dishes, especially the arrosticini, a grilled skewer that’s a street-food favorite in the region.
Antica Osteria Brunetti
This cozy restaurant just off the Piazza del Popolo is a great choice for a casual lunch or dinner. The short chalkboard menu changes daily, but you’ll often find handmade stuffed pastas and Roman classics like rigatoni carbonara alongside delicious seasonal vegetable dishes. It’s all served on gorgeous hand-painted ceramics you’ll be tempted to try to sneak home in your luggage!
Antica Pesa
Four generations of the Panella family have kept this classic restaurant true to its roots for more than 100 years, serving beloved Roman dishes in the Trastevere neighborhood. It’s a favorite for celebrities and locals alike looking for a romantic dinner, especially when the weather is right to eat outside under the flower-draped canopy.
Armando al Pantheon
This classic restaurant near the Pantheon is a perfect stop for a long, Roman-style lunch to revive your spirits after a morning of sightseeing. The Gargioli family have been serving up traditional Roman dishes since 1961, including a decadent spaghetti alla gricia with crunchy guanciale and trippa alla romana. Reservations are only accepted through their website and are recommended but not required.
La Buvette
Around the corner from the Spanish Steps, this is the kind of all-day café/bar/neighborhood meeting place we love. It has a welcoming, casual vibe that makes you want to come back again and again. In fact, on some trips Giada has gone here almost every day!
Luciano Cucina Italiana
Look no farther for the creamiest, dreamiest carbonara in Rome (and possibly all of Italy!). Namesake chef Luciano Monosilio has perfected the silky pasta dish at this modern, Michelin-recommended trattoria near the Campo de’ Fiori, all the way down to making his own dried pasta for the ideal al dente bite.
Matricianella
Email ahead for a reservation at this cozy, in-demand restaurant tucked away in the winding alleys behind the Piazza Borghese. They serve a wonderful fritto misto and bucatini all’amatriciana alongside hard-to-find traditional Roman offal dishes and a lengthy local wine list. The brother-and-sister owners circulate the room every night to welcome regulars and newcomers alike.
Nino
For more than 90 years, this family-owned stalwart around the corner from the Spanish Steps has been serving simple Tuscan favorites like ribollita and bistecca alla fiorentina. It’s been a De Laurentiis family favorite for generations and is one of Giada’s top picks in the city for crisp and flavorful eggplant parm.
Nonna Betta
There’s no better place to appreciate the deep roots of Rome’s Jewish community than at this soulful restaurant in the city’s historic Jewish quarter. Here, you’ll find the absolute best version of one of Rome’s signature dishes, shatteringly crisp carciofi alla giudia (artichokes, Jewish-style), as well as delicious handmade tonnarelli with chicory.
Pizzeria da Baffetto
Roman-style pizza is thin and crispy, more cracker-like than the Neapolitan style and often loaded with creative toppings. This unassuming little spot serves Giada’s favorite Roman pizza a short walk from the Piazza Navona—try the zucchini flower or the bresaola and arugula.
Ristorante Al Ceppo
For elegantly presented Roman food in a sumptuous atmosphere, this lovely little restaurant in the Parioli neighborhood is a great choice. The dark wood-paneled room is quiet and comfortable, lined with glamorous portraits from days gone by. It’s the perfect place to linger over a long lunch with friends.
Ristorante Dillà
Around the corner from the all-day café La Buvette, this sister restaurant near the Spanish Steps offers a larger menu with the same comfortable quirky charm. Their mortadella meatballs in a creamy pistachio sauce are one of Giada’s all-time favorite dishes.
SantoPalato
This off-the-beaten-path trattoria buzzes with excitement thanks to chef/owner Sarah Cicolini, whose creativity and passion shines through in the ever-changing chalkboard menu. You can expect classic Roman fare with a modern touch and one of the city’s creamiest carbonaras, all served by friendly staff who are always happy to help you make a decision.
Settimio all’Arancio
This unassuming spot has been serving simple, satisfying Roman food in the Campo Marzio for more than 50 years. It’s one of Aunt Raffy’s favorites for an easy, nostalgic meal of dishes like roasted chicken, meatballs, and homemade potato gnocchi.
Tavernaccia da Bruno
This family-run restaurant has been serving up unassuming, reliably delicious Roman food in Trastevere for nearly 60 years, spotlighting salumi and cheese from Lazio and, of course, those famous Roman pastas. Set aside time to peruse the lengthy wine list (don’t worry, the excellent servers can guide you if you get lost), and if you’re lucky enough to be there when they’re serving roast pork, don’t miss out!
Trattoria al Moro
Just steps from the Trevi fountain, this cozy restaurant is a great place to take a break from the crowds. Run by the same family for nearly 100 years, it was a beloved hangout for actors and filmmakers for decades and has a long list of dedicated fans (including Giada’s family!) who make dinner here a regular tradition. Don’t miss the spaghetti alla Moro, their version of carbonara, and bavette (a linguine-style pasta) with telline, a local clam.
Trattoria Da Enzo al 29
Come for the classic Roman pastas, stay for the incredible after-dinner amaro selection. This bustling spot in Trastevere is always popular with locals and tourists alike; they don’t take reservations, so get here early (they open for dinner at 6:30) and be prepared to wait for a table. It’s always worth the wait!
Trattoria Monti
If you’re looking for a break from classic Roman pastas or just want to travel to another part of Italy without leaving the city, this casual restaurant specializing in food from the Marche region is waiting for you. Near Termini station, they serve scrumptious handmade ravioli and tortello (a single, massive pasta stuffed with a rich egg yolk), game like quail and rabbit, and homey vegetable dishes.
La Rosetta
Just a short walk from the Pantheon, this elegant restaurant promises “fish and Champagne,” and it delivers on both! The menu offers a great selection of raw oysters, creative crudos, and seafood pastas, and the lengthy wine list includes exceptional sparkling wines from across Italy and France. There’s no better place to splurge on a seafood tower and a few glasses of bubbly.
Il Sanlorenzo
Pierluigi
Do
Some of Italy’s most romantic landmarks live in Rome, as does its most ancient history. While you could spend weeks touring all of the city’s important sites, here are just a few of my favorites, along with some hidden gems that I always love to visit.
Campo de’ Fiori
This square has been an informal marketplace for centuries, where everything from vegetables to horses has been bought and sold. Today, it’s a fun stop to browse the fresh produce, meats, and cheeses, and pick up a souvenir or two. Take a minute to notice the statue in the middle of the square; it’s a monument to the 16th-century monk Giordano Bruno, who was burned at the stake in this spot for his belief that the Earth revolved around the sun.
Colosseum & Roman Forum
The historic ruins of the largest open-air theater ever built sit right in the center of the city. It was here that one of the most iconic activities of Roman life—gladiator games in which men and animals fought to the death in front of up to 60,000 spectators—took place. Be sure to book a ticket that allows you to explore the maze like underground area where gladiators and animals were kept before the games began.
Right next to Colosseum sits the Roman Forum, the center of ancient Roman political life. The Forum is now a grand collection of jaw-dropping archeological ruins, from the free-standing columns of the temple of Saturn to the mostly intact brick senate house. Give yourself plenty of time to wander through here and take in its layers of history. You can get access to both the Forum and the Colosseum with one ticket.
Fontana di Trevi
The largest, most ornate baroque fountain in a city full of fountains, Trevi is the end point of the Virgo aqueduct that brought fresh water to ancient Rome from the unspoiled countryside. Follow local custom and turn your back to the fountain to throw a coin in with your right hand over your left shoulder—this is said to ensure you’ll come back to Rome soon. Or, share a drink from the neighboring Lover’s Fountain with your sweetheart to make sure you stay in love forever. Don’t miss the amazing archeological site that lies below the fountain known as Vicus Caprarius, where you can see the structure of the aqueduct alongside living quarters from the 1st century.
La Bottega del Marmoraro
Tucked away on a picturesque street is this store that Giada always makes a point to visit. As soon as you take a step inside, you'll feel transported to an older time: wall-to-wall marble slabs, books, prints and paintings with perhaps not a sign of uncovered wall in sight. It feels like a magical old workshop, and it's home to one of the coolest souvenirs you can grab in the city: customized marble signs.
La Piccola Erboristeria
When she lived in Rome, Giada’s mom would get her tea from this cool herbalist’s shop on a regular basis. Now that she's back in the U.S., it’s the only souvenir she wants when Giada returns for a visit! In addition to teas, this tiny shop stocks beautiful natural makeup, skin and haircare products.
Pantheon
Down the road from the ruins of the Colosseum and Forum lies another relic of Ancient Rome, this temple was built in the 1st century BCE to honor the 12 Roman gods. Centuries later it was converted to a Catholic church, and renaissance friezes and frescoes were added. The artist Raphael loved the building so much that he requested to be buried here; you can see his sarcophagus in a niche on the wall to the left of the entrance.
Piazza di Spagna
Named for the Spanish Embassy that has perched on this square since the 17th century, this grand square is probably best known for the sweeping 135-step staircase that leads down to it from the Trinità dei Monti. The Spanish Steps are a popular meeting place for visitors from around the world; to get a better sense of their grandeur, come early in the morning before the crowds. In spring, they’re adorned with dozens of blooming azaleas for a gorgeous explosion of color.
Piazza Farnese
This serene square faces the Palazzo Farnese, once the home of a powerful Renaissance family and currently the location of the French embassy, which was partially constructed by Michelangelo. The twin fountains in this piazza are built on massive granite basins that were once part of the ancient Roman baths.
Testaccio Market
This massive market is one of the most exciting destinations for food lovers. With 100 stalls selling fresh produce, cheese, seafood, and more, there’s so much to see and taste. Don’t miss the vendors selling pizza and other grab-and-go foods for a snack while you explore—Mordi e Vai is a favorite for panini stuffed with trippa alla Romana.
The Vatican Museums
It should come as no surprise that the center of power for the Catholic Church is home to some of the most incredible religious art ever created. The Vatican complex contains a number of smaller museums in an attempt to organize it all; one ticket will allow you to access all of them, including the Sistine Chapel, with its incredible ceiling fresco by Michelangelo. Also within the Vatican is St. Peter’s Basilica, which is free to enter and holds the tombs of 91 popes from history.
Via dei Condotti
One of Rome’s most important throughways, this arrow-straight road used to carry travelers and merchants from the Tiber river to the Pincio hill outside of town. Today, it’s where many Italian fashion houses have their flagship stores, including Gucci, Ferragamo, Prada, and more. Look up as you stroll to admire the many gorgeous palazzos that date back to the 17th and 18th centuries.
Via del Babuino
Between the Piazza di Spagna and the Piazza del Popolo, this popular shopping street is a great destination to wander with a gelato in hand. It’s home to a number of high-end designer shops—perfect for some fun window-shopping!
Villa Borghese
Just behind the Spanish Steps is this stunning public park where you can enjoy a picnic among the beautiful gardens that once belonged to the Borghese family. It's a welcome breath of fresh air, whether you stroll, sit, or rent a bike to tour the whole park.
Stay
Hotel Eden
This gracious hotel is a peaceful oasis in the city, originally built in the 1880s as a luxury apartment building. Its jewel is the Michelin starred restaurant La Terraza, which is located on the top floor of the hotel and boasts a truly spectacular view of the city.
The Hoxton
Within walking distance of the Villa Borghese, this fun hotel has a leafy outdoor terrace perfect for sipping a morning cappuccino before you set out for a day of sightseeing. The rooms come in sizes that range from Shoebox to Cosy, Roomy, and Biggy, all with striking midcentury design appeal.
Hotel de Russie
For a true luxury experience, this is Giada’s favorite hotel in Rome. Built in the early 1800s, the grand hotel was called “paradise on earth” by French poet Jean Cocteau in 1917. Though it’s near the bustling Piazza del Popolo and the Spanish Steps, you feel completely secluded in the hotel’s 30,000-square-foot terraced gardens.
