City trip to Rome for connoisseurs | 4 days Trastevere, Via Appia and hidden Rome

Day 1: Soak up the local atmosphere

You will be staying in the working-class neighbourhood of Trastevere, across the Tiber, with its narrow streets and medieval houses. In the evening, it is pleasantly busy here thanks to the many restaurants and terraces. The Piazza di Santa Maria in Trastevere becomes the meeting place for locals in the shadow of the basilica, the oldest Marian church in Rome. The market in Piazza San Cosimato is one of the most traditional and authentic markets in the city. And then there is the Villa Farnesina, owned by the wealthy Agostino Chigi, who commissioned Raphael to decorate his villa with frescoes. But the painter had fallen so deeply in love with Margherita, the baker's daughter, that he was more preoccupied with her than with his commission. Chigi decided to give Margherita shelter in the villa so that Raphael could continue his work.

Day 2: The Via Appia and the catacombs

Today, you will take a bicycle for a guided tour in a small group. You will depart for the Basilica of San Clemente, where you will descend underground to different layers of history, a true revelation! Via a panoramic route, you will pass the Circus Maximus and the Baths of Caracalla and then head towards the Via Appia Antica, where you will take a short walk. Thanks to this important ancient Roman road, soldiers could quickly travel from Rome to what is now Brindisi, and emperors and generals could return triumphantly to their city. The excursion ends in the catacombs of San Sebastiano, a hidden network of underground cemeteries and crypts. Here you will learn how early Christians honoured, worshipped and buried their dead.

To recover from all the impressions, you can relax in the invigorating gardens of Villa Borghese, among the locals. Feel free to do as they do and bring a snack and a drink for a tasty picnic in the shade. From the panoramic Terrazza del Pincio, you have a beautiful view of the 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 spots far from the beaten track. You will visit one of Rome's oldest cafés for a delicious coffee, taste freshly prepared pizza, authentic cannoli and artisan gelato. Along the way, you will learn about the Romans' favourite dishes and the story behind these delicacies. If you have time and you love vintage, handicrafts, alternative fashion boutiques, trendy cafés, wine bars and top-quality street food, then you should definitely visit the Monti district, near the Colosseum. Monti was once a densely populated and poor working-class neighbourhood in ancient Rome, full of hustlers and prostitutes. Now the neighbourhood is buzzing with creativity, with artists, designers and writers.

Day 4: return home

Enjoy your last breakfast before flying back home. Would you prefer to stay a little longer or extend your trip to another Italian region? Our travel specialists will be happy to help you.

Frequently asked questions about this city trip to Rome

How many days do you need for Rome?

Three to four days are ideal for discovering both the famous sights and neighbourhoods such as Trastevere and Monti. Of course, you can always extend your stay. ;)

What are some special experiences in Rome?

A bike ride along the Appian Way, a visit to the Catacombs of San Sebastiano and a food tour of local markets and restaurants.

What makes Trastevere so popular?

Trastevere is known for its narrow streets, lively squares and authentic restaurants. In the evening, locals and travellers gather in squares such as Piazza di Santa Maria in Trastevere.