Our Favourite City for Morning Cappuccinos, Ancient Ruins, and That Carbonara We’re Still Talking About
Rome isn’t just a city—it’s a story. One that unfolds over espresso at a street-side table, through the echo of footsteps inside the Colosseum, or in the golden light hitting the Pantheon at dusk. Whether it’s your first visit or your fifth, Rome draws you in deeper each time.
This is our personal take on how to experience the Eternal City—the Navigator’s way.
Practical Notes from Our Little Black Book
Rome rewards curiosity, comfortable shoes, and a little patience. Here’s what we’ve learned:
- Travel in shoulder season. September, October, April and May offer sunshine without the summer crowds.
- Walk as much as possible. But don’t hesitate to use taxis or ride-shares when little legs (or your own) need a break.
- Book ahead. Reserve the Colosseum, Vatican Museums, and Borghese Gallery online to skip the queues.
- Stay central. Choose accommodation near Centro Storico, Trastevere, or Campo de’ Fiori for easy exploring.
Navigator Tip: Rome isn’t a checklist. Stop for the third gelato. You’re on Roman time.
Coffee in Rome: Where We Sip Like Locals
Coffee in Rome is fast and simple. Order at the till, then sip standing at the bar.
Our favourites:
- Sant’Eustachio Il Caffè – Famous for its rich, sweetened espresso.
- Tazza D’Oro – Great for a summer granita di caffè.
- Roscioli Caffè – A modern spot with pastries worth lingering over.
Aperitivo Bars (And Why You Should Always Pause for One)
Aperitivo hour in Rome means drinks + snacks = happiness.
Where we unwind:
- Salotto 42 – Negronis and people-watching beside ancient ruins.
- Caffè Propaganda – House spritz in a Parisian-style interior.
- Il Goccetto – Wine by the glass in a 15th-century bar.
Navigator Tip: Don’t rush. Aperitivo is a ritual.
The Restaurants We Dream About
Rome keeps feeding us—literally and figuratively.
- Roscioli Salumeria con Cucina – Life-changing carbonara.
- Da Enzo al 29 – Classic Roman pastas and fried artichokes in Trastevere.
- Felice a Testaccio – Cacio e pepe mixed at the table.
- Armando al Pantheon – Traditional Roman fare in an iconic location.
- Trapizzino – Rome’s signature pizza pockets, perfect for street food lovers.
Navigator Tip: If cacio e pepe or carbonara are on the menu, the answer is yes.
Where We Stay
Our go-to hotels and places we pretend we live in:
- Hotel Chapter Roma – Trendy and central.
- G-Rough – Rustic luxury near Piazza Navona.
- Palazzo Dama – Boutique elegance with a rare Roman pool.
- Six Senses Roma - Urban sanctuary blending history with wellness. Expect rooftop aperitifs, spa treatments, and understated luxury in the heart of the city.
Day Trips and Iconic Sites (Without the Stress)
Don’t miss the essentials, but do them wisely:
- Colosseum & Forum – Book a tour for history that comes alive.
- Vatican Museums & St. Peter’s Basilica – Go early or late. Always book.
- Villa Borghese – Picnic, cycle, or just breathe in some green space.
- Ostia Antica – Ancient ruins without the crowds, just outside Rome.
Navigator Tip - Book tickets online. Rome’s crowds are real. And if you want to be whisked past all the important Roman sites in style, consider booking a golf cart or Vespa sidecar tour!
Insider Tips from Your Navigators
- Drink from the fountains. Rome’s nasoni offer fresh drinking water everywhere.
- Evenings are for wandering. Gelato + piazzas = perfect Roman nights.
- For real gelato: Seek out Gelateria del Teatro, La Romana, or Fatamorgana.
- Skip renting a car. Parking in Rome? No, grazie.
A Bit of History to Know
Founded in 753 BC, Rome layers ancient history with modern life. Each street, column, and piazza tells a story—if you pause long enough to listen.
Ready to Pack?
Rome isn’t just a place—it’s a pace of life. Espresso mornings, pasta-filled afternoons, and golden-hour piazzas. However you explore it, Rome will stay with you long after you leave.
Keepsakes & Downloads
Take Rome home with you:
- Destination Tees – Limited edition Rome designs.
- Navigator Caps - Your travel essential.
- Luxury Travel Journals - Document every Roman memory.
- Flight Logbooks - For frequent flyers and aviation lovers.
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With love,
Jenna + Paola
Follow us on socials @withthenavigators