WHEN it comes to tasty food and drink, incredible historical sites to glorious art, and impressive fountains, Rome has it all.
But it can be a place where the hordes of tourists are easy targets, from being lured into inauthentic restaurants to expensive souvenir shops – so Sun Travel has spoken to a local expert to see just how Brits can avoid that, and discover where to go instead.
Gabriele loseffini who is the General Manager at Generator Rome, a hotel minutes away from iconic Colosseum and Roma Termini Station, has got some top tips for us.
First up, is food, which let’s face it, is part of the reason Brits travel to Italy. Gabriele told Sun Travel: “For authentic Roman cuisine, try Trattoria da Enzo, Hosteria Grappolo d’oro or Armando al Pantheon.
“Testaccio Market is another must-visit – a lively spot for street food, local produce and even an opportunity to go on a guided food tour with all the best recommendations.
“I would always recommend the Centrale Montemartini, a culturally rich museum where classical statues are displayed amongst industrial machinery.
“The space is quiet and well-lit allowing, providing a haven from the rush of the city where you can experience the art. For drinks, Enoteca il Piccolo and Vanda are excellent wine bars offering an intimate atmosphere both with an extensive wine menu.
“Those with a sweet tooth will love the family-run Biscottificio Artigiano Innocenti.”
If you go during the summertime and fancy a cool down with some gelato, Gabriele says to check out La Romana or Gelateria Fassi both of which are loved by locals.
Gelateria Fassi is recognised as Italy‘s oldest gelateria and was established in 1880 – it serves classic flavours like the classic Stracciatella, pistachio, lemon, strawberry, chocolate and hazelnut.
In popular cities, especially in peak summertime, you’re likely to be wading through crowds.
If that’s something you’ll want to avoid in Rome then steer clear of the Colosseum and Pantheon and head to these spots on Gabriele’s radar instead.
Gabriele said: “To avoid the crowds, visiting the Aventine Hill and looking through the keyhole at the Knights of Malta is an excellent option.
“Ostia Antica is also amazing, an old city just outside Rome. It’s like a mini-Pompeii but far less crowded. And the Palazzo Doria Pamphilj is a beautiful gallery that is significantly quieter than the Vatican Museums.
“Wandering through local areas such as Testaccio and Garbatella is also perfect to get a sense of the Italian community with its authentic streets and restaurants.”
“Don’t feel like you have to stick to the city of Rome either, just a short drive away are beautiful places like Tivoli is an ancient town filled with beautiful gardens and is only about 30 minutes away from Rome. You can explore the ruins of Hadrian’s Villa and Villa d’Este.
“Another great day trip would be to Bracciano. Less than an hour from Rome you can explore the medieval streets, see the volcanic lake and the well-preserved castle Castello Orsini-Odescalchi.”
If you’d like to swap city for city, then Florence is another option where you can see landmarks like the famous Ponte Vecchio Bridge and Duomo di Firenze.
While you’re there, Gabriele also said to make sure you stop by Trattoria Sergio Gozzi for a taste of traditional Tuscan dishes.
Looking at the menu, Trattoria Sergio Gozzi serves filled tortellacci, Tuscan stews and steak.
When it comes to accommodation, of course Gabriele has one hotel that trumps all the others in the city.
He said: “My favourite place to stay in the city would be of course Generator Rome, as it’s close to the Colosseum and Termini Station, so it makes an excellent base to explore.
“Generator’s Roman house has guest experience at its core, with stylish and comfortable rooms that offer an ideal option for those looking for an authentic Roman stay.
“During the warm season the rooftop terrace also has incredible views of the city and is the perfect place to relax once aperitivo hour hits.”
Borough Market is a tourist trap right here in the UK – but Sun Travel has some authentic recommendations for you…
Kara Godfrey, Deputy Travel Editor said: “If you really want to try some of Borough Market’s best treats without the huge price tag – check out Too Good To Go. They have everything from Bread Ahead to cheese mongers.
“My favourite place to eat is El Pastor – one of two restaurants (the second at Kings Cross) where the tacos are huge and the horchata is deliciously refreshing.
“While not as cheap as they used to be, the All That Falafel van is a great quick eat that will fill you up all day, with a wrap being around £6.
“If you want a fancier drink, you’ll find me in Swift. Its small, but the bar crew are always happy to make you something off the menu (not that you’ll need it, with a whole book of options).”
Lisa Minot, Head of Sun Travel added: “Well it has to be Boro Bistro for me.
“I’ve been a loyal fan of the cosy Boro Bistro for more than a decade. This cute independent, fiercely French bar and restaurant has rarely changed in all those years.”
Veronica Lorraine, Gardening Editor and Associate Head of Features, told us: “Tabard Street Food Market is a proper hidden gem.
“Forget the chaos of actual Borough market – this has five or six stalls every lunchtime, is loved by locals – always a good sign – and serves everything from Filipino and Thai food to Jerk chicken, Falafal wraps, Souvlaki and Philly Steaks.
Travel Reporter Alice Penwill revealed her favourite spot: “Being fairly new to the area, when I ventured out for lunch, I was quite happy when I found a quiet spot away from the very busy Borough Market.
“Just a 10 minute walkaway on Crucifix Lane, I discovered Kin + Deum which is home to tasty Thai dishes like classic Pad Thai, pineapple rice, peanut satay and of course a katsu curry.
“They’re all reasonably priced and you get a lot for your money too, and wash it all down with a small cup of refreshing lemongrass tea at the end.”
For more on Rome with and without kids – here are the must-see tourist attractions and cheap pizzerias.
And if you fancy visiting more than one Italian city, one travel expert reveals the very clever way to see five in one day.