5 hot-spots in Rome
Marzapane
Since opening in 2013 Marzapane has become one of the hottest restaurants in town thanks to the young, innovative team led by head chef Alba Esteve Ruiz who began her career at Spain's El Celler de Can Roca (which boasts 3-Michelin stars and is ranked as one of the top five restaurants in the world). Our pick: the risotto with butter, candied ginger, and anchovies from the Cantabrian Sea.
39 Via Velletri, 00198
+39 06 6478 1692
Enoteca Il Goccetto
Wine buffs will adore this tiny old-school enoteca that offers up just the right mix of buzzy sophistication and age-old charm. Housed in a 15th-century building, Il Goccetto is considered by those in the know to be the best wine bar in central Rome thanks to an impressive inventory that includes over 800 wines sourced from all over Italy.
14 Via dei Banchi Vecchi, 00186
+39 06 686 4268
The Spanish Steps
One of the most beloved, and recognisable landmarks in Italy, La Scalinata di Trinita dei Monti, otherwise known as the Spanish Steps, are the handiwork of Francesco De Sanctis, a 17th-century Roman architect. The iconic attraction has starred in movies, song lyrics and fashion shows and was immortalised by late American actors Gregory Peck and Audrey Hepburn in the 1953 romantic comedy, Roman Holiday. Such is its cultural and social significance that Italian luxury brand Bulgari recently financed the €1.5 million restorations of the sweeping travertine and marble staircase, to celebrate the company's 130th anniversary.
Piazza di Spagna, 00187 Roma, Italy
The Colosseum
Rome's famous Colosseum may have once been home to bloody gladiatorial battles and wild animal hunts, but the modern-day hordes of tourists can be almost as formidable. Mercifully, there are several high-end operators specialising in private tours that include exclusive access to the archaeological sites of Ancient Rome and the network of underground tunnels of the Colosseum & the Arena. The 'Through Eternity' tour company gets our vote thanks to their by-the-night tours where visitors can stroll through the capital's incredible landmark free from crowds and lit only by the night sky.
Nora P
Need a reprieve from sightseeing? We suggest an appointment at interior design heaven Nora P. Accessible only by appointment and located in the hip Roman neighbourhood of Monti, interior stylist, Elenora Pastore; has handpicked a collection of antique, collectible, and compelling designs from the world’s best historical and contemporary designers and makers. It is an experience not to be missed.
220‚Äë221 Via Panisperna 00184
+39 06 4547 3738
Feeling inspired? Check out some of our beautiful Italian-made cookware, like this Italian-crafted, classic Per Vita stockpots or our premium cookware sets