The eternal city of Rome is a must when it comes to bucket list travel, and Italy’s awe-inspiring capital certainly lends itself well to being experienced and enjoyed in style. Steeped in rich history and home to some of the world’s most iconic landmarks – perhaps most notably of which being the Colosseum and the Roman Forum – in Rome, you’ll also find spectacular five-star hotels, Michelin-starred dining and all of the other key ingredients needed for an opulent city break to remember.
If you’re planning a romantic trip, a solo visit or a family holiday to Rome this autumn then knowing where to start can feel overwhelming – and so too can the prospect of all those crowds. To ensure you make the most of the time you have, no expense spared, here’s where to stay, where to eat and what to do for a truly memorable city break in Rome, Italy.
Where to stay and eat
The Palazzo Manfredi
When it comes to impressive views, the Palazzo Manfredi remains unmatched. Set just steps from the Colosseum, you can enjoy stunning vistas of it whilst relaxing on your bed or enjoying a glass of champagne by the window – which are at their finest when it’s lit up at night. Upstairs on the rooftop, the Michelin-starred Aroma restaurant offers more of the same, along with a mouth-watering menu of luxurious signature dishes designed by Head Chef Giuseppe Di Iorio and wine pairings recommended by sommelier Alessandro Crognale.
The Hassler Roma
For the ultimate luxury experience in Rome, head to the top of the city’s iconic Spanish Steps and check in for a night or two at Hassler Rome. Featuring a selection of elegant rooms and suites and yet more spectacular views of the Eternal City, here, you can expect an effortless fusion of modern comfort with classical Italian charm. Another hotel that plays home to one of Rome’s best-known Michelin-starred eateries, dinner at Imàgo is a must, while the Hassler bar is the perfect spot for an aperitif or some evening cocktails.
What to do and see
Colosseum Night Tour
It goes without saying that a visit to the ancient Colosseum is an unmissable experience, but seeing it at night offers a whole new perspective of this historical landmark and the chance to see it in – quite literally – a different light. A Colosseum night tour allows you to soak in the atmosphere after the daytime crowds have dissipated and explore this ancient amphitheatre as the sun goes down. You’ll still be able to learn about its rich history with the help of an expert guide, and gain insight into the lives of ancient gladiators and the grandeur of the Roman Empire. Don’t forget to check out the Roman Forum, which is just beside the Colosseum, before you leave.
A private tour of the Vatican
The Vatican is another bucket list sight you’ll want to add to your itinerary whilst visiting Rome – but the crowds and queues can often feel overwhelming. It’s something that joining a large group tour does little to mitigate, so instead, book yourself onto a private tour, where you can meander through its vast museums and take in sights like the Sistine Chapel and St. Peter’s Basilica at your own pace with a tour that is tailored to you. Booking a private tour means you can take advantage of the early morning or the evening, when the Vatican is much quieter, and with an expert guide to take you through Michelangelo’s masterpieces and an immense art collection that also features the likes of Leonardo Da Vinci, Raphael and Carvaggio, you can truly enjoy the experience whilst feeling like you’re in the lap of luxury.
Shopping on Via Condotti
Rome is well known for its array of high-end designer shops, and nowhere will you find a greater concentration of them in the city than Via Condotti. Boasting a string of stylish boutiques from well-known names like Gucci, Prada and Valentino to name but a few, if you’re looking to splash some cash whilst in the city and upgrade your wardrobe with some opulent Italian fashion, then this is the place to be. For the ultimate luxury experience, opt for a personalised shopping experience, during which a personal shopper will be on hand to make suggestions, offer styling tips and provide you with outfits and accessories to try on that are tailored to suit your tastes.
A night at the opera
If you’re eager to truly immerse yourself in Italian culture then you’ll want to save some time for a night at the opera. At the iconic and historical Teatro dell’Opera di Roma, you can sit back in your premium seats or private box, relax, and take in a performance from one of the world’s best-renowned opera singers for a truly opulent evening amidst impressive architecture and with the very finest acoustics. This is truly an evening of luxury entertainment at its best, and a captivating and memorable way to spend an evening in Rome.
