A Weekend in Rome During The Holidays: Where To Stay, Eat and Play
Rome, an eternal city with countless charms, has spanned the ages and stood the test of time, while continuing to fascinate generations of voyagers. Discover the tips and the best addresses for a weekend in the capital, among countless trails of lights and the very Italian festive mood.
Wandering its streets, the eyes are treated to a compendium of history and culture: here the Colosseum takes back to the ancient Empire; there, it is the Medici villa which reminds of the flourishing Italian Renaissance age. La dolcevita is at every corner, like the one narrated by Federico Fellini at the Cinecittà studios, where Italy’s greatest filmmakers and actors have showcased their art. Rome is the epitome of romance, and a significant religious destination, under the aegis of the Vatican. At the same time a cultural, political and religious center, it holds the sceptre of the altamoda fashion capital and is a mecca for the finest gastronomy lovers.
Where to play – From heritage…
The long history of Rome has left its vestiges throughout the city, making it one of the most architecturally spectacular European capitals to see, with its 35 million visitors only in 2023. Its pleasant temperate climate even during the winter season, invites to take time to visit it by walk, to discover hidden gems and breathe the authentic colours and culture.
A perfect starting point is Piazza di Spagna with its famous steps, that periodically act as a catwalk for Italian high fashion brands, like Valentino – here the creative director Pierpaolo Piccioli held the latest altamoda defilé honouring the Italian tailor-made cult.
A couple turns further, the Trevi Fountain majestically opens up as a wonder in the mids of the ancient city walls – its travertine twists and turns, carved form a unique block of marble has the power of leaving in awe even the most skeptical of visitors.
The walking tour continues towards the Saint Peter’s Basilica, passing by via dei Coronari, one of Rome’s most beautiful streets known for its antique shops, picturesque spots depicted in countless paintings. The street owes its name to the sellers of sacred objects, notably rosaries (corona in Italian), who sold them here to pilgrims on their way to the Vatican.
Although many things can be done on foot, sometimes the distances are great, and when fatigue increases, it can be pleasant to take a ride in a Vespa with a sidecar, the flagship scooter and symbol of Italy. A tour allows to discover the most beautiful monuments of the Eternal City, such as the Colosseum, the Sant’Angelo Bridge, the Holy Door of the Vatican and the square of Altare della Patria, that encapsulates the enduring beauty of Rome amid centuries.
For an unforgettable experience, the dawn visit to the Vatican Museums is a must. Organised exclusively by Hotel De La Ville, the places are limited and offer to accompany the official clavigero Gianni Crea ( guardian of the keys) on the daily opening private tour. The early meeting, fixed at 5:30 before the sun shines over the dome of the Holy See, allows to have more time, space and freedom to contemplate the masterworks, in a solemn and mystic atmosphere to discover some of the greatest artistic works of humanity, such as the Sistine Chapel and the frescoes of Michelangelo, or the rooms of Raphael and the courtyard of the Belvedere.
Rome, renowned for being casa to some of the most prestigious altamoda fashion houses, such as Fendi or Valentino, and high jewellery brands like Bvlgari, epitomize the “Made in Italy” and contribute to the country’s national cultural heritage, by promoting the craftsmanship with workshops, laboratories and fashion institutes.
… to pop culture
The Tridente area stretching from Piazza di Spagna to via Condotti, passing by via Borgognona and Piazza del Popolo, is The Chic district in Rome. Monobrand boutiques alongside with concept stores and places of worship, mix and match harmoniously in an effortless timeless elegance.
An afternoon taking culinary classes can be a way to come back from Rome with a new hidden talent and impress family and friends during a festive dinner. To wrap oneself in the gastronomic spoilers and learn how to prepare pasta or gelato, an exclusive two-hour Italian cooking class experience can be booked with the one Michelin star chef Cristina Bowerman. The classes take place at her Glass Hostaria restaurant in the heart of ancient Rome quarter Trastevere.
For music aficionados, a visit to the Parco della Musica Auditorium is mandatory. The biggest European performing arts’ cultural complex, which notably hosts the Jazz Festival, has a rich winter program that stretches from Harlem Gospel Choir to the national Italian music scene.
Where to Stay
Hotel de la Ville, the luxury five-star hotel nestled in Rome’s heart, overlooking Piazza di Spagna and Trinità dei Monti, offers proximity to key attractions and shopping. Dating from the 18th century, the address was a favorite of the European nobility during the era of the Grand Tour. The recently renovated design is a blend of classic Italian charm and contemporary freshness.
The city comes to life under the lights, as joyful celebrations fill the elegant hotel space with dining experiences, cocktails and sparkling decorations. This year the collaboration with Campomarzio70, an artistic fragrances company founded in 1926, surprises the guests with a sensory Christmas tree to celebrate with the emotion of a unique olfactory experience. The decorative elements of the tree are turned into diffusers with the notes of amber, vanilla and cedar wood, creating a sublime sensory path that envelops the guests.
Where to indulge
During the festive season the capital transforms in a kaleidoscope of culinary delights. In order to enjoy Rome like the Romans do, indulging in both traditional and innovative tasty experiences is a great way of discovering another side of Italy.
Our favorite venues, that offer a unique slice of the city’s rich gastronomic tapestry, will leave the five senses involved in the present moment.
Starting your day at Antico Caffe Greco, an institution since 1760, where the aroma of freshly brewed coffee blends with the historical ambiance. Here, amid walls echoing with literary discussions of the past, a cappuccio & cornetto becomes an act of partaking in Rome’s vibrant history.
Just a stroll away, Hosteria del Mercato offers a refreshing contrast. Here, health-conscious visitors find solace with a rejuvenating juice, a burst of vitality amidst the festive rush. This spot, with its dedication to wellness, reminds us of the city’s ability to marry the old with the new, tradition with modernity.
For lunch, the choice leads to Dal Bolognese on Piazza del Popolo. Known for its quintessential Roman dishes like carbonara and tiramisu, the restaurant is a warm embrace of tradition, that witnesses from its vitrines the world passing by while one indulges in flavours that have stood the test of time.
Antica Pesa, another culinary landmark, offers a rich tapestry of tastes and history. Here, the pasta is not just a dish but a storyteller, narrating tales of the many famous figures who have dined within its walls.
For those with a sweet tooth, Gelateria del Teatro is a wonderland. Here one can witness the magical process of gelato-making, a reminder of Rome’s dedication to craftsmanship. It becomes clear why the pistachio is held in such high esteem. It captures the essence of the gelateria’s commitment to quality, a silent yet eloquent ambassador of their art.
As the afternoon wanes, a visit to Hotel de Russie’s Winter Garden offers a serene escape. This celebrity hotspot is an oasis of calm. Here, afternoon tea becomes a luxurious ritual, a moment to unwind and soak in elegance.
As dusk falls, the panoramic terrace of Cielo at Hotel de la Ville beckons. This rooftop haven offers breathtaking views of the city, a perfect backdrop for sipping master cocktails.
For dinner, the choices are equally enchanting. Pierluigi, with its fresh seafood, offers a taste of the Mediterranean, while Camponeschi, with its piano bar, provides a melodious dining experience, blending traditional Italian cuisine with notes of music. And for those seeking a blend of the exotic with the historic, Zuma in Palazzo Fendi presents sushi on a rooftop terrace overlooking the Palazzo dell’Unione Militare with its artistic lantern sculptural piece designed by Fuksas.
The newly opened Soho House is a symbol of modern luxury. Its dining, rooftop pool, and spa are invitations to indulge in a lifestyle that is both cosmopolitan and quintessentially Roman.
In each of these places, the spirit of the festive season is palpable. They are not just venues for eating and drinking but realms where history, culture, and the joy of the season intermingle, offering a taste of Rome that goes beyond the palate, stirring the soul.