A Romantic Getaway Filled with History, Food & Bellinis
The Start of Something Special
My husband and I booked this trip as a couples' escape — just the two of us, with no itinerary other than to enjoy ourselves, indulge a little, and soak in as much history, food, and wine as possible. We flew business class (because why not?) and toasted our trip with champagne at 30,000 feet. The perfect beginning.
From the moment we arrived, Rome delivered. Our hotel was beautifully central, and to our delight, we were upgraded to a suite. Think rich fabrics, high ceilings, and windows that opened onto cobbled streets below. There was even a marble bathtub so deep and indulgent it became our nightly ritual, complete with bubbles and Chianti.
Walking Through History
We explored all the must-see sights — the Spanish Steps, Trevi Fountain, Piazza Navona — and each one gave us that goosebump moment, as if we’d stepped straight into a film. But our guided tour of the Colosseum was the highlight. Standing beneath its towering arches, we could almost hear the roar of the crowd and the clash of swords. The scale, the innovation, the drama — it was like walking through time.
We also spent a day at the Vatican. As we craned our necks beneath the Sistine Chapel ceiling, completely in awe of Michelangelo’s masterpiece, a hush fell over the room. And as if that wasn’t enough, we stepped into St. Peter’s Basilica just in time to witness the Pope giving a blessing from the balcony. Totally unplanned. Completely unforgettable.
Facing Our Fears (Literally)
There was one moment on this trip that wasn’t so glamorous — and it involved both of us confronting a very personal fear. We're both terrible with heights, so of course we decided (in a rare moment of questionable logic) to climb to the top of St. Peter’s Basilica.
It started off okay — scenic views, wide stairs — but then we reached the base of the dome. From there, the stairway narrows into tiny, spiralling steps that lean with the curve of the dome itself. At one point, you’re walking tilted, pressed up against the inner wall, and there’s no turning back because it’s a one-way system. I was so scared I actually crawled along a ledge just to get to the next part.
My husband — also not a fan of heights — somehow held it together much better than me, though I could tell he was faking the calm for both of us. All I could hear in my head were the guide’s earlier words about how many slaves died building the basilica, how ancient it was… and suddenly, all I could think about was how is this still standing?!
We eventually made it to the top. My husband braved the outer edge to snap a few photos, while I stood in the middle of the platform, back against the dome wall, counting the seconds until we could go back down. I didn’t exactly “enjoy the view” — but I survived it. Just. And now we can say we did it… never again, though!
Wandering Hand-in-Hand
Rome is made for wandering. We spent hours strolling side by side down quiet alleyways, stopping for creamy cappuccinos and flaky cornetti, browsing family-run shops with handmade leather bags and colourful ceramics. Street performers played violins in piazzas, and every turn revealed another piece of history — a crumbling column, a hidden fountain, an ancient archway standing proudly between modern storefronts.
Dining with a View
One of our favourite evenings was at La Terrazza, a Michelin-starred rooftop restaurant with panoramic views over the Roman skyline. As the sun dipped behind domes and bell towers, we were served course after course of artistry: delicate truffle risotto, perfectly seared sea bass, a dessert that looked like a Fabergé egg (it turned out to be a deep-fried yolk — and it was divine).
Another night, we wandered into a candlelit church drawn in by the sound of music and ended up staying for a surprise opera performance. The acoustics, the setting, the sheer emotion — we were both in tears by the end.
And yes, we drank Bellinis in a basement club until far too late. One too many? Possibly. Worth it? Absolutely.
Another standout was dinner at a tiny trattoria tucked away beside the Pantheon. No flashy signs, just flickering candles and locals arguing passionately about football over bowls of cacio e pepe. A Roman we’d met earlier had recommended it, and it felt like a secret only we were lucky enough to know.
Bringing Rome Home
On our last day, we hunted for souvenirs for the kids — little Roman warrior outfits complete with shields and swords.
Just Us
This trip wasn’t just a holiday — it was a reconnection. We laughed until our cheeks hurt, talked for hours over wine, and shared those quiet, meaningful silences that only come when you’re truly content. We remembered who we are outside the chaos of daily life — not just Mum and Dad, but travel companions, food lovers, history nerds, and best friends.
Rome has officially taken the top spot as my favourite city. And I already know we’ll be back — next time with our older boys, who will absolutely light up at the Colosseum, the Vatican, the stories etched into every stone.
If you’re thinking about booking your own couples’ escape to Rome, here are a few things we learned along the way:
- February was the perfect time to go. The weather was kind (hoodies by day!), the crowds were light, and we often had famous spots almost to ourselves. Rome in the off-season feels like a secret.
- Don’t overplan. Some of our favourite memories came from simply wandering. Rome rewards spontaneity.
- Treat yourselves at least once. This is a city that makes luxury feel effortless.
- If you’re tackling St. Peter’s dome — be warned! The climb is tight, steep, and not for the faint of heart (or those scared of heights — speaking from experience!). Wear comfy shoes, take a deep breath, and know there’s no turning back once you start.
- Definitely book guided tours for big sites. Our Colosseum guide brought the place to life in a way that no audio app ever could. And when you’ve only got a few days, a little context makes all the difference.
Until next time, Roma.
La dolce vita, indeed.
