A New Way to See Rome

Rome is one of those cities that always calls you back. My late husband and I visited for many years after our daughter moved there — and on my most recent trip, I returned solo. This time, I skipped the crowds at the Vatican and the Colosseum to rediscover the city at my own pace — quieter, more local, more connected to everyday Roman life.

If you’ve already seen the major attractions, this itinerary is for you: five fresh ways to experience Rome like a Roman — plus one bonus tip at the end.

1. Arriving Like a Local: The Leonardo Express

Skip the taxi lines and the chaos of Rome’s traffic. From Leonardo da Vinci Airport, take the Leonardo Express, a comfortable half-hour train that delivers you straight to Roma Termini, the city’s main station.
It runs every 30 minutes, more often at rush hour, and is fast, affordable, and stress-free — about €14 one-way.

💡 Travel tip: The trains are set up for luggage, but it’s a reminder that traveling light makes everything easier.

2. Breathe Easy at Villa Borghese

When the city feels a little intense, head to the Villa Borghese Gardens — Rome’s version of Central Park.
This 80-hectare green oasis is filled with art, fountains, and locals walking their dogs. You can visit the Galleria Borghese (famous for Bernini’s sculptures) or Villa Giulia, which houses an extraordinary Etruscan collection.

🎟️ Cost: Museum entry €13–20; gardens free.
🌿 Why go: It’s peaceful, spacious, and never feels crowded.

If you’re traveling with grandchildren, the small Bioparco Zoo inside the park makes a lovely afternoon outing.

3. The Capitoline Museums — Rome’s Hidden Treasure

Perched atop the Capitoline Hill, this lesser-visited museum offers art and architecture that rival any in Europe. Designed by Michelangelo himself, it’s home to the bronze She-Wolf of Rome, the equestrian statue of Marcus Aurelius, and sweeping views over the Roman Forum.

🎟️ Cost: Around €15–20.
🕰️ Best time: Late afternoon, when the light over the ruins turns golden.

Tip: Hire a local guide for a few hours — it’s worth it to focus your energy and deepen your experience.

4. Piazza Navona — History and People-Watching

Built on the site of an ancient arena, Piazza Navona has been the city’s living room for centuries. Bernini’s Fountain of the Four Rivers sits at its heart, surrounded by Renaissance façades and lively cafés.

Yes, you’ll find tourists here — but its size means it never feels packed. Order a cappuccino, find a sunny bench, and simply watch life unfold.

☕ Cost: Coffee €5–10 depending on the café.
💬 When to go: Early morning or just before sunset, when the piazza glows.

5. Eat Like a Roman

Forget the international chains — eat what Romans eat.
Start your day with espresso and a sweet pastry at a café bar. For lunch or dinner, try:

• Pasta all’Amatriciana (spicy tomato sauce with guanciale)

• Linguine alle Vongole (linguine with clams)

• Cacio e Pepe (simple, peppery, and pure comfort)

And of course, gelato — ideally enjoyed while strolling home from dinner.

🍝 Cost: €10–20 for pasta dishes; €3–5 for gelato.
💡 Why it matters: Food in Rome isn’t just nourishment — it’s connection, joy, and a way of slowing down.

Bonus Tip: Discover Local Life in Parioli

Step beyond the tourist areas to explore Parioli, a leafy residential neighborhood where real Romans live, shop, and dine.
Here you’ll find family-run trattorias, artisan shops, and daily rhythms that remind you what makes this city timeless.

This is where you’ll see Rome at its most human — beautiful, a little imperfect, and full of life.