To discover one of Rome’s most charming markets, you will only have to walk down Via Falegnami toward Via de Giubbonari which leads directly into the Campo de' Fiori. 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 from Campo de` Fiori (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 Falegnami toward Largo Arenula and finally Largo Torre Argentina. From here 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 visit to Vatican City, simply walk to Largo Torre Argentina (see above for further directions), take the 40 Bus (toward Piazza Pia/Castel S. Angelo). Exit after three stops at the Traspontina/Concilizione stop. Continue by foot down Via della Conciliazione – a great view of the Cupola.
To reach to the Colosseum, walk to 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
Il Pagliaccio is a charming, but modest restaurant offers diners cutting-edge Italian fusion cuisine. Try taste creations like roast duck in lightly smoked Asian broth with shiitake mushrooms and tapioca. The wine list is small but perfectly formed, and the desserts are to die for. Closed Sundays, and for lunch on Mondays and Tuesdays. 129 Via dei Banchi Vecchi tel: 06 688-09595, www.ristoranteilpagliaccio.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