Simply walk down Via di Tor Millina to find yourself in the midst of Piazza Navona. Initially constructed to reflect the ancient Stadium of Domitian, Piazza Navona is home to Gian Lorenzo Bernini’s Fontana dei Quattro Fiumi, or “Fountain of Four Rivers” (recently made famous by Dan Brown’s thriller Angels and Demons). Additionally, Piazza Navona includes the Brazilian Embassy building and the church Sant’Agnes in Agone (“Saint Agnes in Agony…” since she was martyred in the square). From the early morning until late in the evening, you will find musicians, artists, puppeteers, and street performers entertaining in this lively piazza.

Piazza Navona is also a good point of reference to find a number of other famous spots in Rome. Just across Via Vittorio Emanuele II is Campo de' Fiori, famous for its fruit, vegetable and flower markets. Also from Piazza Navona, the Pantheon, Trevi Fountain, and Spanish Steps are all within walking distance (about 15 minutes).

To visit Vatican City, simply walk toward Via Vittorio Emanuele II (the main road that passes by Piazza Navona), and take the 40 Bus (toward Piazza Pia/Castel S. Angelo). Exit after two stops at the Traspontina/Concilizione stop. Continue by foot down Via della Conciliazione – a great view of the Cupola.

To reach the Colosseum, walk past the Piazza Navona (the right side of the piazza, nearest to Vittorio Emanuele II) to Corso del Rinascimento. From here, take bus 81 (toward Malatesta). After 11 stops, get off at the Celio/Vibenna stop.

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.

To reach the charming, bohemian neighborhood of Trastevere – walk to Via Vittorio Emanuele II near Chiesa Nuova and take the 40 bus (toward Termini) to Largo Torre Argentina. (You may also want to consider walking to Torre Argentina since it is quite close). 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.

Where to Eat & Drink
Rome is filled with thousands of great restaurants, but here are a few great places nearby your apartment:

Café
Though any Italian bar serves delicious espresso and cappuccino, if you’re looking for a cup of a joe with a view, try Bar della Pace. Sip your coffee, munch, on snacks or have a drink while you people-watch and enjoy the sights and sounds of Roma. Via della Pace 4-7.

For Dinner
Near the Italian Parliament, you’ll find the first mozzarella bar in the city, and perhaps the world. Obikà serves mozzerella, salumi, salads, and a few cooked dishes. Closed Sundays. Via dei Prefetti, 26. Tel. 06 683-2630. www.obika.it/en/index.html

Drinks
After a long day relax with a glass of wine at a local wine bar, Cul de Sac. There are over 1000 Italian and international wines to choose from here, and also a selection of small dishes for lunch or a snack. Though small inside, outside tables at Cul de Sac are quite comfortable during the warmer months. Piazza Pasquino, 73. Tel 06 688-00194