'Romantic City Break in Rome'

Melissa LoGalbo on 18 September 2012
If you are looking for culture and sightseeing, then Rome is definitely the right choice for you.

I spent my ‘special’ birthday in Rome. I was lucky enough to stay at the 5*Gran Melia in Rome which is just 5 minutes’ walk from the Vatican and St Peters Basilica and only 15 minutes walk from the Piazza Navona. The hotel itself is very contemporary and boasts a truly exceptional location on the banks of the river Tiber. We stayed in a premium city view room which had views of the Vatican. There is a lovely outdoor pool which is nice to spend time relaxing when you are exhausted from all the sightseeing that Rome has to offer.

Within walking distance from the Gran Melia is the Trastevere area where we spent a lot of time. We found that it was very local and traditional and half the price of eating and drinking right in the city centre. We even found a restaurant where you could get a delicious pizza for €1.00!

During our stay we did not use public transport we walked everywhere that we went, from the iconic Colosseum to the Trevi fountain and Spanish Steps. I feel that the best way to see Rome is on foot. Also the wonderful thing about Rome is that most of the sights are free. I would however stress that if you wish to enter any of the main attractions like the Vatican and St Peters the queues can be pretty long so maybe get there early to beat the rush.

Try some of the world –renowned cuisine in one of the city’s many restaurants and trattorias, or for that extra special treat go to Imago, the Hassler hotels’ 6th floor panoramic Michelin starred restaurant with it unique view over the city. It was totally fabulous.

There is just so much to see and do in Rome and make sure when travelling to Rome you have some comfy shoes. If you would like any further information about a city break in Rome then please feel free to contact me.