To discover one of Rome’s most charming markets, you will only have to turn right out of the apartment and down Via de Giubbonari. Every morning except Sundays, Campo de' Fiori fills with vendors selling fresh fruit and vegetables and of course flowers (“fiori” in Italian). A great stop for breakfast before you head out to tour the eternal city.
Piazza Navona, famous for its fountains and artists, is just across the street (Via Vittorio Emanuele II). From here, the Pantheon, Trevi Fountain, and Spanish Steps are also all within walking distance (about 15 minutes).
The charming, bohemian neighborhood of Trastevere is also quite close – just a tram ride away. Walk up Via Vittorio Emanuele II to Largo Torre Argentina. Next, take the 8 tram, 3 stops to Trastevere. Or if weather permits, walk alongside the tram for a great view of Rome’s island, Tiburtina.
To reach Vatican City, simply walk toward Via Vittorio Emanuele II (the main road that passes by Campo de’ Fiori), cross the street, and take the 62 Bus (toward Borgo San Angelo). Get off after 5 stops at the Corridori stop.
To visit the Colosseum and Imperial Forum, walk up the Via Vittorio Emanuele II toward one of the city’s main bus stops, Largo Torre Argentina. From here, take 87 bus (toward Colli Albani). After 6 stops, get off at Labicana/Colosseo.
To get to the Spanish Steps (though it may be easier to walk from the Trevi Fountain – Via del Corso to Via dei Condotti) you may also want to try walking to Largo Torre Argentina and taking the 119 bus (toward Corso/Popolo) for 9 stops. If you like, stay on the 119 until the end of the line… you’ll come to Piazza del Popolo and be only a short walk from one of Rome’s beautiful parks, Villa Borghese.
Where to Eat & Drink
Rome is filled with thousands of great restaurants, but here are a few great places nearby your apartment:
Café
There are many cafés located in Campo de Fiori but if you’re looking for a more peaceful place to sip your cappuccino, find your way to the nearby Bar Farnese located in the spacious Piazza Farnese located only a short walk from the apartment.
For Dinner or Lunch
La Locanda del Pellegrino – A family-run restaurant on the opposite end of Campo de Fiori. Serving local Roman specials and also cuisine from southern Italy, the menu includes many interesting twists on traditional dishes like flan made with pecorino cheese and roast beef cooked on lava rock. Open for lunch and dinner. Closed Mondays. Via del Pellegrino, 107. Tel 06 687-2776, www.lalocandadelpellegrino.it
Drinks
After a long day relax in a enoteca (Italian wine shop) like L’Angolo Divino (“the Divine Corner”). You are sure to find something to refresh or relax you from their selection of over 1000 Italian and international wines, and a variety of dishes to accompany your vino. Via dei Balestrari 12, tel. 06 686-4413. Closed on Monday. For a complete Rome city guide, go to www.inromenow.com