The Eternal City, where memories last forever

Welcome to the NH Collection Roma Giustiniano and Rome, a place full of things to see where the main attractions are world famous landmarks: think walking along Via dei Fori Imperiali to the magnificent Coliseum or turning around an innocent corner and being confronted with the awesome Pantheon as examples. I’d also, though, recommend the stunning Fontana di Trevi, to see where the amazing Anita Ekberg stood in the iconic movie La Dolce Vita. (Try to see the film before you visit to get an insight into Rome’s sweet life!) The Basilica di Santa Maria del Popolo sits on Piazza del Popolo and is home to Caravaggio’s famous Crocefissione di San Pietro (St Peter’s Crucifixion). In the square you can also marvel at the Obelisque in its center and the two ‘twin’ churches, although look closely and you’ll spot some differences.

Rome’s hidden gems and panoramic views

Now, if it’s hidden places you’re looking for, allow me to point you towards a couple of great locations. Enter via Villa Borghese Park and go up to the Terraza del Pincio where a drink is optional but an incredible view over the city is non-negotiable, especially at sunset. Colle del Gianicolo , not actually one of the seven ancient hills, is the second highest and arguably gives the best scenic view over the heart of Rome with its domes and bell towers.

More spectacular views can be had from the Giardino degli Aranci, where the orange-scented gardens have a terrace overlooking the Tiber River. Also, try to find the keyhole at the Piazza dei Cavalieri di Malta that gives you a furtive view straight into Basilica di San Pietro. Through this famous keyhole two rows of the garden’s trees form a natural frame…it’s one of Rome’s real, semi-secret, treasures!

The Vatican museum, need we say more?

Rome and the Vatican go hand-in-hand and the museum of the Vatican, just 15 minutes from the hotel, is a must-see. Full of classical sculptures and Renaissance masterpieces, it will take your breath away. Even closer to home, you can visit the Castel Sant’Angelo museum which is believed to have been originally built by Hadrian as his tomb, but now allows visitors a unique view overlooking the Eternal City.

Classy Italian shops, as you’d expect

Shopping enthusiasts are in for a treat. The elegant Via Cola di Rienzo is near the hotel and connects Piazza del Popolo to Vatican City. There you’ll find top fashion brand names as well as Coin Excelsior, a lovely luxury mall. Due to the close proximity to the Vatican, you’ll also find a number of religious shops including Borgo Pio and Viale di Porta Angelica. It’s worth noting that as a general rule shops are open from 09:30 to 19:30.

Fun for young and old alike

Children and families are taken care of in Rome and the Castel Sant’Angelo park allows everyone to explore the Bioparco of Rome where they get to learn about different species of animal, and can even feed some of them. I would also suggest the inspiring, interactive Explora Museo dei Bambini where kids get to roam free in a miniature city playing adult roles and learning about the world they live in. Parents love it too!

My top three restaurants: culture not just sustenance

Eating, as many people know, is part of the fabric of Italian culture and I could spend hours recommending places to dine but here are a few to get you started. In Piazza Augusto Imperatore, Gusto caters for most of your daily needs. Coffee and cake through the day, brunch, aperitifs, after dinner cocktails and, at times, organized wine and spirit tastings. I love this place because it’s a very modern concept.

If the feeling of romance is needed, Casina Valadier (Villa Borghese/ Piazza di Spagna) is where you’ll fall in love with Rome, losing yourself in its magical atmosphere and mix of Italian and Mediterranean dishes. My third tip, Hi.Res in Piazza del Popolo, is downtown and lets you dine with magnificent views over the monuments, rooftops, cupolas and terraces. Wherever you choose, finish the evening off in style by grabbing a delicious cocktail in any of the bars that catch your eye on the Piazza Cola di Rienzo next to the hotel.

The Roman experience in a day

If you’re short on time then let me give you a neat plan allowing you to capture Rome in a day. Start of at Giardino degli Aranci - sit and listen for a few minutes to the buzz of the city. Then go to the top of Piazza di Spagna and take a walk along the famous Via dei Condotti. Stop for a coffee at the Sant Eustachio Bar close to Pantheons Square, and grab something to eat at the famous Pompi Tiramisu. Finally, visit Castel Sant’Angelo and aim to reach the Angel at the top where you can enjoy the magical view.

Walk, hop or hail – just getting around Rome can be fun

If you can, discover what Rome has to offer by foot and you’ll get a real sense of its soul. There are only two metro lines but they cover the main attractions and the numerous buses are widely available (download the ATAC app onto your cell phone to help). Try the hop on - hop off bus – the closest stop to the hotel is just five minutes away at Castel Sant’Angelo – which is a fun way to see the city, and there are always taxis if required.

Experience Ancient Rome by the sea

Rome is a wonderful city but we are also surrounded by other towns and villages for short trips. My first choice would be Ostia, on the mouth of the River Tiber, which can be reached easily using the metro to Piramide and then train. It’s a contrasting town, with ruins a-plenty giving an insight into what Ancient Rome must have been like over 2000 years ago, alongside the modern neighborhood of Ostia. Culture while you walk and a delicious meal by the sea: not a bad day out.

About Federica Diomedi

Ciao! I’m Federica Diomedi. I’ve been part of NH Hotels for four years and two years ago I started working on the Guest Relations team. I love taking care of our guests’ needs and I’m so proud of my work and that of my colleagues, especially when guests tell me their stay with us was perfect and unforgettable!! I try every day to leave something special for guests, something they can feel… and we always try to exceed their expectations.