It may no longer be the empire that ruled Europe and beyond. Still, regal Rome remains an epic cosmopolitan capital with bustling piazzas and wide boulevards that proudly reflect the past. Architectural icons, magnificent frescoes, ornate cathedral spires, historical ruins, world-class shopping, and phenomenal food grace the Eternal City. There is so much to see and do that you could easily spend a week here and feel you’ve missed most attractions. But if I only had 24 hours to enjoy the best of Rome, this is how I’d spend the perfect day.
Arriving well rested at Leonardo da Vinci–Fiumicino Airport, a smartly-dressed driver meets me at the baggage carousel before whisking me to my hotel in the Riona Regola neighborhood. This area is stunning. In ancient times, it was where the charioteers trained for their races. In the modern day, it’s home to a beloved Roman retreat, Hotel De’ Ricci.
Hotel De’ Ricci is a boutique hotel of eight rooms that feels like the townhome of a long-lost wealthy uncle. The staff, as usual, offers an effusive welcome. Before I know it, my luggage is discretely delivered to my room while I’m enjoying a glass of wine. At Hotel De’ Ricci, professional sommeliers are always on hand, and its cellar gives the whole city a run for its money; this luxury Roman hideaway is a wine lover’s delight.
I would join a small group tour of Rome’s best tastes and authentic flavors in the late afternoon. A knowledgeable guide would take us to their favorite trattorias to sample the best cheeses, prosciuttos, pasta carbonara, and crunchy supplì in the city. We would visit a family-owned restaurant to indulge in Carciofi alla Romana, an enticing blend of baby artichokes braised and slow-cooked with olive oil, fresh garlic, mint, and parsley—my favorite.
On my perfect day in Rome, there is always room for dessert, especially a superb scoop of creamy gelato. I would go for a scoop of pistachio from Frigidarium. A staple in old Rome for more than 15 years, it continues to be one of the best gelaterias in the city.
I would walk off the extra calories on a night-time tour of Rome’s great attractions. Lit by the moon, the stars and street lamps, Piazza Campo de Fiori, the Colosseum, the Pantheon, and the Trevi Fountain glow in a golden hue.
Taking advantage of being an early riser, I’d head over to the world’s smallest state, Vatican City, to walk St. Peter’s Square and see the treasures of the Vatican Museum and the glorious ceiling artwork of Michelangelo in the Sistine Chapel without the crowds.
No one can deny the glamour and style of Italian fashion, especially Rome’s designer boutiques and palatial flagship stores. Before embarking on my voyage, I’d stop at Via dei Condotti and Via Borgognona, near the foot of the Spanish Steps, to shop for a dress to wear to dinner at Prime 7 later that evening.
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Jennefer Teegen is the Director of Guest Engagement & Experiential Marketing for Regent Seven Seas Cruises.
