My Rome Top 10

Non basta una vita

Welcome to Gillian Knows Best. I am so glad you are here.

There is that famous quote about Rome. Roma, non basta una vita

One lifetime is not enough, so surely 10 things on a list are not even close.

It is a place to start.

These are 10 of my favorite places in my beautiful chaotic home. They are in no particular order. I made you a Google Map and a Google Map List too.

I have left out the stars of the show like the Colosseum and the Fontana di Trevi and the Vatican Museums. You should see those too.

I would love to hear about your favorite things in Rome. You can tell me by clicking the button below.

If you would like help planning your upcoming Italy trip, I can help with that. Send me an email at gillianknowsbest@gmail.com

1. Sant’Eustachio Il Caffe

This is one of my favorite coffee stops. It comes with a view of a swirly Borromini spire and is run by one of Rome’s friendliest families.

2. Santa Prassede

There are 900+ churches in Rome. This is my sparkliest favorite. The floors are pretty great too.

3. Trattoria Pennestri

Just fancy enough to feel special but not too fancy so you can go often. Roman classics but make it just a teensy bit modern.

4. Bar San Calisto

This place is everything I love about Rome. It’s classic and it’s a little scruffy. The coffee is great, the hot chocolate even better, and you can get a spritz at 9 am or midnight.

5. Pizza mortadella at Antica Forno Campo di Fiori

There is no better snack in the land than pizza mortadella. It is more delicious eaten leaning against a fountain in Campo di Fiori or next door in Piazza Farense.

6. Maritozzi at Pasticceria Regoli

Maritozzi are giant cream-filled buns. They have a smaller size. Don’t get that. You can get a tray of them to go or sit down with a cup of coffee at the bar next door.

7. The Pantheon

One of Rome’s oldest places. It takes my breath away every single time. You must book your visit ahead of time now. You can not wear shorts or a miniskirt and make sure to bring a scarf to cover your shoulders.

8. San Luigi dei Francesi: Cantarelli Chapel

The three Caravaggio’s here are magnificent. Try to look at them without the lighting first (make sure you have a €2 coin for when you want to turn on the lights) and imagine a Rome lit only with candles and lanterns.

9. Galleria Borghese

A perfect museum. Not too big, limited timed entrances, and a collection of art that dazzles. Book ahead.

10. Giggetto al Portico

Eat your artichokes and amatriciana with a view of the Portico di Ottavio. This mish‑mash of Roman archeology was originally commissioned by Augustus for his sister around 27 BC.