Step inside the eternal city where every street and corner surprises you. Rome is so much more than the classic attractions: it is a city that lives, breathes and constantly renews itself. Join us on an extraordinary trip through the hidden gems, creative corners and bustling neighbourhoods of this vibrant city. Rome is ready to inspire you, amaze you and leave an unforgettable impression.
Day 1: Soaking up the local atmosphere
You stay in the working-class district of Trastevere, across the Tiber, with its narrow streets and medieval houses. At night, the area bustles with life owing to the many restaurants and terraces. Piazza di Santa Maria in Trastevere then becomes the meeting place for locals in the shadow of the basilica, Rome's oldest Marian church. The market in Piazza San Cosimato is one of the city's most traditional and authentic markets. And, then there is the Villa Farnesina of the stone-rich Agostino Chigi, who commissioned Raphael to decorate his villa with frescoes. But the painter, meanwhile, had fallen so in love with the baker's daughter Margherita that he was more concerned with her than with his commission. Chigi then decided to accommodate Margherita in the villa so that Raphael could continue working.
Day 2: The Via Appia and the catacombs
Today you will be picked up at your hotel for a guided small-group excursion. You will leave for the San Clemente Basilica, where you will descend underground to different layers of history, a true revelation! A panoramic route takes you past the Circus Maximus and the Termes of Caracalla and then towards the Via Appia Antica, where you will take a short walk. This important ancient Roman road allowed soldiers to quickly get from Rome to present-day Brindisi, and emperors and lords of the field returned triumphant to their city. The excursion ends in the catacombs of San Sebastiano, a hidden network of underground cemeteries and crypts. Here you will find out how early Christians honoured, worshipped and buried their dead. To recover from all the impressions, rest in the lovely gardens of Villa Borghese, among the locals. Feel free to do as them and bring a snack and a drink for a tasty picnic in the shade. From the panoramic Terrazza del Pincio, you'll have a great view of Piazza del Popolo and the city.
Day 3: Guided food tour in the city centre
Today, a local foodie will take you to the heart of Rome. You will walk in a small group past historical monuments. You will visit picturesque markets, typical restaurants and delicatessens and secret places, far off the beaten track. You will visit one of Rome's oldest cafés for a delicious coffee, taste freshly prepared pizza, authentic cannoli and artisanal gelato. Meanwhile, you'll find out what the Romans' favourite dishes were and the story behind the delicacies. If you still have time and love vintage, handicrafts, alternative fashion boutiques, hip cafés, wine bars and top-quality street food, then you should definitely visit the Monti district, near the Colosseum. Once a densely populated and poor working-class neighbourhood in ancient Rome, Monti was full of hustlers and prostitutes. Now the neighbourhood bustles with creativity with artists, designers and writers.
Day 4: Going home
You enjoy your last breakfast before returning home by plane. Would you rather stay a little longer or extend your trip in another Italian region? Our travel specialists will be happy to help you.
Why book with Caractère?
- Best price guarantee
- Caractère extras
- Unique collection of boutique hotels in Europe
- Just one phone call or email away from our enthusiastic travel experts
- New finds every month
- 30 years specialist in Europe
- Pay safely
- No extra or hidden fees
- Flexible cancellation (ex. non-refundable)
