During the second world war, the District of San Lorenzo in Rome was bombed and after that renovated without any  fuss. So no beautiful Italian architecture here, but just simple cases. But what is missing from the architecture, is offset by the atmosphere! With the University of Rome in the middle of the district, the square is buzzing with the energy brought by students and teachers who are looking for relaxation. The youthful looks of the district is supplemented with many colorful graffiti paintings, the district is really popular with artists and performers.

The inhabitants of this area have fought against the often serious religion and politics of Italy making the freedom for many an inspiring environment. There are plenty of vintage clothing shops, live musicians and flea markets to satisfy the diverse personalities in San Lorenzo!

Via Degli Apuli, Rome

Museo Napoleonico presents a treasure chest full of portraits of the Prince Napoleon Bonaparte and his family. The maker of the art collection is Count Primoli, rear grandson of Joseph and Lucien Bonaparte. After his death he donated his works of the family Bonaparte to the city of Rome. During your visit to Museo Napoleonico it will soon be proved that you don’t have enough time and eyes. The portraits, uniforms, dresses and even the bike of the son of Napoleon are shown in huge display cases. Surprisingly, the museum also shares special recipes from the age of Napoleon. Of the youngest guests is also thought, for them there is a special children’s garden. And best of all: the museum is free to visit!

Piazza di Ponte Umberto 1, Rome

You must have at least once tried tiramisu in Italy, that’s for sure. Of course it is very tempting to walk in a random ice cream parlor while on Piazza Navona or Campo dè Fiori. But the best tiramisu in Rome you will eat at bar Pompi, one of the best kept secrets of Rome.Bar Pompi has four stores in Rome, the store at Via Albalonga was the first point of sale and also still the most popular.

Via Albalonga, 7b/9/11, 00183 Rome

The Roman quarter Regola has as heart the lively Campo de ‘ Fiori. All day this is a busy area, both by the locals as by tourists. Every day, except for Sunday, you will find here a huge popular fruit and vegetable market where you can try delicious refreshing snacks. In the afternoon, the market stalls are replaced for terraces. Take a seat to sit in the Sun to enjoy a drink on the square! The Jewish quarter is also a part of this district, the narrow streets and old churches make this a quieter part. By the Jewish history you can find dishes that deviate from the standard pasta and pizza, and you can drink in one of the many cosy small cafés. Regola contains the perfect mix of tourists and locals which is ideal to get to know the Italian culture!

Regola, Rome

t will not appear in any travel guide and fair is fair: it is probably the smallest point of interest of Rome. But not less worth it! What we are talking about? The keyhole of the headquarters of the Knights of the order of Malta! As you look through this Keyhole then you will see a garden path with Hedges on both sides that perfectly frame the St. Peter’s Basilica. The Head Office of this mysterious knighthood can be found on the square that also to this knighthood is named: Piazza dei Cavalieri di Malta.

Piazza dei Cavalieri di Malta, rome

Circo Massimo certainly lives up to its name, because it was the largest and oldest circus of Rome. In the 6th century BC, Emperor tarquinius Priscus gave the order to build the circus. When it was ready, Maximus was used for various purposes: chariot races, athletic contests and exciting gladiator fights. Unfortunately there is not much left of the circus: You can only see a small part the gates at the beginning and the athletics track has turned into a huge turf. But with a little imagination you will have enough insight into the earlier times!

Via del Circo Massimo, Rome

Caffè della Pace is one of the best cafes of Rome! Perhaps also because it is in one of the most atmospheric areas of the Italian capital, namely Trastevere. This café is known as the hangout for arty and show business celebrities. Painters, writers, musicians, politicians and Italian fashion designers like to come here for a drink and a fascinating conversation. Be careful, because on sweltering summer days the outside terrace is soon filled. Female guests don’t wear a nice dress for nothing, it’s a smart tactic to get a table on the terrace! Surrounded by Ivy plants and classic lanterns, SIP a fresh pineapple-shake or glass of grappa.

Via della Pace 3

The Gianicolo, the Janiculusheuvel, is not one of the original seven hills, but it offers a beautiful view of Rome. If you climb the Theice on foot, you will get, among other things, along the Fontana dell’Acqua Paola, a popular spot for wedding photos. On the top of the Hill lies the Piazza Giuseppe Garibaldi, with his statue. Go in the evening to watch the sunset with a glass of wine in your hand. If you’re here in the middle of the day, you have to watch out: at noon a cannon gets shot from the Piazza!

Gianicolo, Rome

With its avenues, meadows, lakes, buildings and fountains, Villa Borghese is one of the most beautiful sights of Rome. You’ll find the summer palace on the north side of Rome, right next to Piazza di Spagna. Together with a large, wide park, the villa was built in 1616 and the park is still one of the most beloved of the Italian city. In the park you can find the famous museum Galleria Borghese and the Casino Borghese. The park itself is a romantic hangout for young and old, but you can also enjoy picnicking, skating, jogging, cycling or just walk around and enjoy all the Green!

Piazzale Napoleone I, Rome