Rome: a true taste of ancient Italy with a modern twist

Enjoy a slice of pizza the way it was intended, marvel at ancient sculptures that have stood the test of time, relive your classic movies from where the stars of the screen stood. Rome, a never-to-be-forgotten visit.

The NH Concierge’s Tips

As the name may suggest, our hotel is situated on Via Vittorio Veneto, one of Rome’s most famous shopping streets. Known for its stunning haute couture, you’ll find shops to suit your every fashion need including stylish shoes, hats and scarves to complete any look. Just a short walk away is the popular, and surprisingly narrow, Via del Corso where the variety will amaze you and there’s something for every budget. Also, if you’re here on a Sunday be sure to check out Porta Portese, a local market in the Trastevere district open between 06:00 and 14:00 that will give you a real sense of how the locals live.

Roman culture: from the modern to the macabre to the spectacular

Shopping and fashion is an important part of any Roman’s daily life but for visitors a true insight into the culture of the city is what really makes a visit worthwhile; and where better to do this but in our museums. Close to the hotel, on Via Nizza, you’ll find MACRO, the Museo d'Arte Contemporanea di Roma, a daring, modern art museum housed in an old Peroni beer plant. Another couple of hours well spent would be at the Museo e Cripta dei Frati Cappuccini, where over 4,000 skeletons of Capuchin friars add a macabre decoration to the crypt beneath the church.

Ancient Rome is witnessed all around you and many of the historical monuments are within walking distance. From Piazza Barberini you can stroll to Trevi Fountain, the beautiful Spanish Steps, which ascend from Piazza di Spagna, and the monument-laden Piazza del Popolo. Then, a little further away you can find the Monumento alla Patria (the building dedicated to King Vittorio Emanuele), the striking Pantheon and Piazza Navona, with its sculptured fountains, street artists, et al.

Restaurants and bars: discover the real taste of Italy

We’re conveniently located for many of the city’s most popular restaurants, and if the locals eat there you can be sure it’s good! Taste authentic Italian dishes with recipes from here in Rome at Piccolo Mondo, Peppone or San Marco, or try Sardinian and Sicilian styles in Orlando and Nuraghe respectively. Our street is well-known as one of the settings for the movie La Dolce Vita and many of the bars and eateries from that epoch not only still exist but remain incredibly popular.

Entertainment and nightlife a very modern Rome

Talking of showbiz, if you’ve had enough of ancient ruins and great cuisine then Rome also offers up some more modern entertainment. There’s a plethora of theater performances and concerts throughout the year – we can guide you to one that matches your preferences – as well as various cinemas scattered across the city. The closest cinema to the hotel is in Piazza Barberini, a seven-minute walk, which has all the latest movies, however, if your Italian is not up to scratch, then try the original language cinema in Campo dei Fiori.

And whether its post-cinema or following a great meal, the nightlife in the city won’t disappoint. For guaranteed fun I’d recommend the neighborhoods of Trastevere, Monti, and Testaccio, where you can choose from a wide selection of pubs, cocktail bars and places to dance if the mood takes you.

Roman parks: time to relax and fun for all the family

Close to the hotel is Villa Borghese and this park, the largest in Rome with almost 100 points of interest hidden within, serves as a wonderful place to escape the city and relax. Choose your space to rest your legs and enjoy the greenery, have a refreshing drink in one of the cafés or take in the impressive collection of the Galleria Borghese, including works by Titian, Raphael and Rubens. Note that booking tickets can save you long queues on arrival so let us know if interested and we’ll arrange them.

The Villa is also a fantastic choice if you are traveling with family. There’s plenty to keep kids occupied, from running between the many trees, hiring a bike and stopping for some typical Italian ice cream. Also within the park you’ll find the city zoo, Bioparco di Roma, but if dolphins and water rides are more your thing then Zoomarine, to the south west of Rome is worth a trip.

Getting around Rome, flexible and fun

Rome is well equipped with buses, metro and taxis to get you to your attraction, restaurant, or back to your bed as efficiently as possible. But for the curious visitor I’d suggest buying a day ticket for the Citysightseeing Hop on - Hop off bus, which gives you great flexibility while taking you to all the key locations of the city.

Michelangelo’s “David” just a short trip away

If you’re staying for a while, or have been to Rome before, there are some incredible day trips possible to experience more of Italy; and where better than the romantic Florence, just an hour and a half away by train, and full of delights including the magnificent Duomo cathedral, and a chance to see the famous statue of David in all his glory, in the Galleria dell'Accademia.

Naples too is a great option and similar distance but if you’d prefer something smaller, try Tivoli or Pompei.

About Maria Grazia Mauro

I’m Maria Grazia Mauro. I have been part of the NH Hotel Group since March 2016, working in Guest Relations after gaining experience in London. I chose this position because every day is different - there’s no chance of being bored! We are the main point of contact for both the hotel team and the guests, so the entire day is focused on the guests’ needs, ensuring their satisfaction and aiming to make their stay an unforgettable experience. You need to be empathetic, understanding, and have time for everyone in this job, as well as having the ability to stay calm and collected while offering the right solution to each client, always with a smile. A happy guest will always come back.

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