Roman Holiday: A Honeymoon to Remember
Rome, the eternal city, is one of the most enchanting destinations in the world. With its rich history, breathtaking ruins, and vibrant culinary culture, it is a city that promises adventure and romance around every corner. For my husband and me, it became the perfect backdrop for our honeymoon in March 2009. Rome captivated us, inspired us, and surprised us in the most delightful ways. Whether you're considering a trip to this beautiful city or simply love reminiscing about your travels, this blog will take you through my favorite experiences and sprinkle in some tips to make your Roman holiday truly unforgettable.
Discovering the Charm of Rome
Rome is a city that wears its history proudly. Ancient ruins such as the Colosseum, the Forum, and the Pantheon remind visitors of a time when this city ruled the ancient world. Walking through its cobblestoned streets, you can’t help but feel as though you’ve stepped back in time. But Rome isn’t just about history. It’s a dazzling blend of old-world charm and modern vibrance, offering travelers endless surprises.
One of the things that struck me most about Rome was how seamlessly its historical architecture blended with everyday life. You’d find locals sipping espresso near centuries-old fountains or zipping by on Vespas with the Colosseum in the background. While planning is essential when tackling a city so full of attractions, I quickly learned that sometimes venturing off the beaten path leads to the most magical memories.
Hidden Gems Can Be the Jewel of Any Trip
Among all the majestic landmarks, my absolute favorite memory wasn’t something we had planned. We stumbled upon Hostaria Antica Roma, a charming restaurant tucked away near the catacombs. Something about the inviting atmosphere drew us in, and what followed was an unforgettable dining experience.
Nestled under a canopy of trees, the outdoor seating invited us to linger as we indulged in perfectly cooked pasta and rich, velvety wines. The warmth of the staff elevated the experience, making it feel less like a meal and more like we were visiting old friends. It was here that the magic of Rome truly clicked for me—not in chasing every landmark but in savoring moments like these.
To this day, I still stay in touch with the co-owner of the restaurant through Facebook, and the picture of the restaurant remains proudly displayed on my refrigerator. This simple, serendipitous moment reaffirmed something I now hold dear in every trip I take: sometimes, the unplanned surprises are what create the most lasting memories.
Essential Tips for Your Roman Holiday
Planning your own Roman adventure? Here are some tips you might find useful:
1. Balance Planning and Spontaneity
Rome is packed with must-see landmarks like the Colosseum, Vatican City, and Trevi Fountain. While these iconic spots are absolutely worth planning for (and sometimes require advance tickets), leave room in your itinerary to simply wander and discover the unexpected. Who knows? You might find your own Hostaria Antica Roma.
2. Make Time for the Vatican
Even if you’re not religious, the Vatican is a masterpiece of art and architecture. Book your tickets in advance to avoid the long lines. Be sure to visit St. Peter's Basilica and the Sistine Chapel, as the paintings and sculptures will leave you in awe.
3. Explore the Neighborhoods
Each Roman neighborhood has its own distinct vibe. Trastevere is brimming with cobbled streets and cozy cafes, Monti offers boutique shopping and hip restaurants, while Testaccio is a haven for food lovers.
4. Sample the Local Cuisine
Italian food is so much more than pizza and pasta (though those are divine in Rome). Try traditional Roman dishes like cacio e pepe, suppli (fried rice balls), and carciofi alla Romana (Roman-style artichokes).
5. Use Public Transport Wisely
Rome’s charming chaos extends to its streets, so don’t try driving here unless you’re feeling adventurous. Thankfully, the public transport system is affordable and efficient. Whether you ride the metro or hop on a bus, it’s easy to get to most major attractions.
6. Pack Comfortable Shoes
Rome's uneven cobblestone streets may be picturesque, but they’re not forgiving on your feet. Comfortable shoes are a must, especially if you’re planning to walk as much as we did.
7. Keep an Open Mind for Experiences
Whether it’s chatting with locals in a piazza or following the scent of fresh baked goods into a hole-in-the-wall bakery, be open to moments that weren’t part of your plan. These are often the most magical parts of the trip.
Rome Highlights Worth Mentioning
While I could wax lyrical about my personal experiences forever, no Roman travel guide would be complete without mentioning these absolute must-sees:
Colosseum
The Colosseum is an awe-inspiring relic of Ancient Rome. Seeing its grandeur in person made me appreciate not just its history but the incredible engineering of its time.
Trevi Fountain
No trip to Rome is complete without tossing a coin into the Trevi Fountain to ensure your return to this phenomenal city.
Piazza Navona
This lively square is a hub of activity, filled with street performers, artists, and quaint cafes.
The Pantheon
A stunning temple that showcases the sheer brilliance of Roman craftsmanship.
The Roman Forum
Walking through the ruins of the Roman Forum truly feels like stepping into history.
Make Memories That Last a Lifetime
Rome’s beauty lies in its layers of history, its undeniable charm, and the stories waiting to unfold in every piazza and on every corner. My Roman honeymoon may have taken place years ago, but the memories feel as vivid as the day I experienced them. Finding a little gem like Hostaria Antica Roma near the catacombs wasn’t just a happy accident—it was a reminder of how travel rewards curiosity, spontaneity, and open hearts.
Whether you’re embarking on your first Roman holiday or returning to rediscover its magic, don’t forget to leave a little space in your itinerary for the unexpected. After all, the best treasures are sometimes the ones you weren’t looking for.
Planning your Roman escape? Contact me!
