The district of Trastevere

When I think of Rome, I think of the linen hanging between the buildings, of the climbing vegetation covering the orange and yellow facades whose paint is often faded. These images are those of the Trastevere district south of the Vatican. In the early morning, the cobbled streets are deserted, it's the perfect time to sit on the terrace of a bistro and have a real Italian coffee.  "

This area with its intimate and authentic atmosphere is separated from the historic centre by the Tiber River, which flows down from its flood and invites you to walk along its banks. There are many bridges to cross it and even an island, Isola Tiberina. What a delight to enjoy a kiwi-coco ice cream cone under a cloudless blue sky. It is the beginning of spring and the birds celebrate it by singing!

On the right bank, at the exit of Isola Tiberina, you will find the Portico d'Octavia, a witness of antiquity, right in the city centre! But I'm not at the end of my surprises because archaeological sites flock to the bend in the houses. From the Capitol, I discover a panoramic view of the Roman Forum with the Colosseum in the background.

These treasures of history attract crowds. You have to be comfortable with being a tourist among thousands of others, especially at the Trevi Fountain where everyone wants to throw their coin.

To escape the hustle and bustle and breathe in a green setting, nothing beats a trip to the Villa Borghese park. Arancia Blu, a restaurant-library, is just a stone's throw away, where you can enjoy Mediterranean flavours with a vegetable, home-style and hearty cuisine.

Yes, you have to try some of the must-tries of Italian cuisine, such as the best tiramisu in Rome at the Checco Er Carettiere restaurant or the "Carciofi alla romana", an artichoke fried in oil with a melting heart and leaves that turn into crisps. The nirvana is to admire the rooftops of Rome, hydrating oneself with a glass of proseco from the terrace of Mater Terrae, the organic and vegetarian restaurant of Relais & Castello Raphael, next to Piazza Navona where street artists of all kinds abound.

By bike or on foot

Rome can be discovered entirely on foot, or by bicycle for the more adventurous: the latter means of locomotion is not yet very popular due to the dense traffic and cobblestones. Self-service bicycles are available on every street corner at 50 cents per hour ½. 

At night, Rome reveals another facet than romanticism: partying. Every evening, in the Trastevere district, bars and restaurants raise their front gates and light their neon lights. Romans flock to the city and communicate their joie de vivre by feasting until late.