A weekend in Rome: the perfect itinerary to live like a local

If there’s a way to truly discover Rome, it’s by experiencing it as a Roman would. Between strolls in authentic neighborhoods and coffee breaks in hidden piazzas, Rome offers an intimate and unique experience, far from the fast pace of mass tourism. Our hotel, nestled at the foot of the Aventine Hill, is the perfect starting point for a weekend that will make you fall in love with the Eternal City, gifting you the charm of everyday Roman life.

Day 1: The charm of Aventine and Testaccio

Morning: Breakfast and relaxation on the Aventine

Start your day with a rejuvenating breakfast in the tranquility of our hotel. Try our cakes, freshly prepared in-house by our pastry chef, or a savory option accompanied by a cappuccino, coffee, or fresh juice.
After breakfast, begin exploring the surrounding Aventine neighborhood:

• The Orange Garden (Giardino degli Aranci): A walk among the orange trees will reward you with a breathtaking view of the city. It’s a peaceful spot, perfect for taking photos or simply unwinding.
• The Keyhole View (Buco della Serratura): Just a few steps from the garden, this keyhole, located on the door of the Priory of the Knights of Malta, frames a perfect view of St. Peter’s Basilica.

Lunch and afternoon: Testaccio, the heart of culinary tradition

Just a few minutes from the Aventine lies Testaccio, one of Rome’s most authentic neighborhoods.

• Visit the Testaccio Market, where you can enjoy local street food, like a supplì or a trapizzino.
• The Pyramid of Cestius (Piramide Cestia): A unique monument in Rome that highlights the city’s ancient connection with Egypt.
• The Non-Catholic Cemetery (Cimitero Acattolico): A suggestive spot where famous figures like poet John Keats are buried.

Evening: Aperitivo or dinner at the hotel Santa Prisca

Return to the hotel for an evening of flavor. Enjoy a glass of Lazio wine paired with cheeses and cured meats, or choose from our daily specials for a dinner celebrating the tastes of Roman tradition.

Day 2: Trastevere and Campo de’ Fiori

Morning: Discovering Trastevere

Begin your second day with a walk through the characteristic neighborhood of Trastevere, easily reachable from the Aventine.

• Santa Maria in Trastevere: One of Rome’s oldest churches, featuring stunning Byzantine mosaics.
• Wander through the neighborhood’s narrow streets, discovering hidden corners and small artisan shops.

Lunch: Campo de’ Fiori and Roman cuisine
Head to Campo de’ Fiori, where the market bursts with colors and aromas.

• Choose a quaint eatery nearby and savor a plate of abbacchio alla scottadito or saltimbocca alla romana for an authentic culinary experience.

Afternoon: A Roman stroll

Wrap up your itinerary with a walk through some of Rome’s most iconic alleys:

• Via Giulia: One of the city’s most elegant and historic streets.
• Ponte Sisto: Cross it to return to Trastevere and enjoy the view of the Tiber River.

Evening: Dinner and Roman nightlife

End the weekend with a traditional dinner at a trattoria in Trastevere or the Jewish Ghetto, just minutes from the hotel. Order carciofi alla giudia, a signature dish of Roman tradition. If you’re in the mood, continue the evening with a glass of wine in one of the neighborhood’s piazzas, soaking up the lively yet relaxed atmosphere of Rome.

Living Rome like a local: helpful tips

1. Travel on foot: Rome reveals itself best through walking, especially in its most authentic neighborhoods.
2. Savor the moment: Don’t rush from one attraction to another; take the time to enjoy every moment, as Romans do.
3. Engage in daily life: Stop at a bar for a coffee at the counter, chat with shopkeepers, or join a local cultural event.
4. Avoid tourist peak hours: Visit famous spots early in the morning or late in the afternoon for a more genuine experience.

Conclusion: A weekend as a true Roman

A weekend in Rome shouldn’t just be a race to its most famous attractions, but an immersion in the city’s authentic life. By staying at our hotel at the foot of the Aventine Hill, you’ll discover a Rome full of hidden corners, genuine flavors, and timeless atmospheres.
Pack your bags, book your stay at Hotel Santa Prisca, and let yourself be inspired by the magic of the Eternal City!