Kid Friendly in Rome

Description:

Let's be honest, the Pizzeria ai Marmi is not a romantic dining venue. But that's a good thing, and rightly so, there's nothing pretentious about this place. Truth also be told, the Pizzeria ai Marmi is dubbed "the morgue" for its bare interiors, but this is one of the liveliest (no pun intended) pizzerias in Trastevere. All that steam is not a fire in the kitchen, it's the hot food on everyones plates! It may look primitive to the eye but the pace of service and quality of food is simply astounding. For the adventurous, try their pizzas and calzones with flowers!

Description:

Tradition has it that throwing a coin over your left shoulder into the fountain guarantees a swift return to the world's most beautiful city. Anita Ekberg's dip in it was immortalized in Fellini's 'La Dolce Vita', and Italian actor Toto even sold it to an American, passing himself off as its owner. Earlier it was the setting for the award-winning "Three Coins in the Fountain" motion picture, ensuring its popularity worldwide. Designed by Nicola Salvi for Pope Clemente XII, it was completed in the second half of the 1700s. The statues in the centre represent Neptune supported by Tritons on either side while rococo-style Poli Palace provides the perfect backdrop.

Description:

The Forum was designed to be the centre of social, political and economic life in the city. The innumerable remains include the well-conserved triumphal arch of Emperor Septimius Severus, with reliefs depicting his victories and the base of the Temple of Saturn with its eight columns and their splendid Ionic capitals. The 'Rostrum' is the famous platform from which Mark Antony gave his oration in Shakespeare's play after Julius Caesar's assassination. The platform became the setting for many important events in Rome's history. It was named the 'rostrum' after the bows of the ships that form the decorative motif. The Temple of Vesta was the home of the Vestal Virgins, charged with keeping the sacred flame alight. The circular foundations still remain, near to a garden in which traces of the House of the Vestal Virgins can still be seen. The Basilica of Constantine and Massentius was used as the court, and the three remaining barrel-vaulted naves give an idea of its gigantic structure. The Arch of Titus celebrates victories in Judea, and in the reliefs you can see the spoils of war, including an altar and a seven-armed chandelier.

Our Local Expert Says:

This arch is the largest of the three remaining arches from ancient Rome.

Description:

The Arch of Constantine is particularly interesting because it is like a jigsaw made up of other monuments. It was built using material from Trajan's Forum, from where the statues of the Dacian prisoners and the friezes representing Marcus Aurelius were also taken. The Arch was erected at the beginning of the fourth century in honour of Constantine, following the victory over Maxentius. It is considered one of the last great monuments to be constructed by the Romans. It stands beside the Colosseum in the huge square which in summer is the site for one of the events of the 'Estate Romana'. A huge screen is hung from the arch, onto which films and videos are projected.

Description:

No visit to Rome is complete without having seen its magnificent Colosseum, a vast amphitheatre with seating for 55,000 that was designed as a horse racing circuit and arena for animal fighting and gladiatorial battles. Upon its completion, spectacular 100-day celebrations were organized as part of the opening ceremony in 72 AD. Its name is believed to come from Nero's enormous statue of Colossus that stood close by.

Description:

Do not be put off by the noise in this central and very pleasant pizzeria. There are classic pizzas and traditional Roman cuisine such as Pasta Cacio e Pepe or the delicious Pasta al Amatriciana and a limited choice of side vegetables lightly cooked with a little hot pepper (in the Roman tradition. They have a good choice of wines to accompany your meal.

Description:

This government-rated five-star hotel has raised the bar for every other hotel in the city. For service, style, and modern luxuries, it beats out the Eden, the Westin Excelsior, and the St. Regis Grand. Just off the Piazza del Popolo, it opened in the spring of 2000 to rave reviews. In its previous incarnation, it was a favorite of Russian dignitaries (hence its name), and it also has hosted Jean Cocteau, Stravinsky, and Picasso. Public areas are glossy and contemporary. About 30% of the bedrooms are conservative, with traditional furniture, while the remaining 70% are more minimalist, with a stark, striking style. Each is equipped with every conceivable high-tech amenity and offers deeply upholstered comforts. The signature feature is the extensive terraced gardens, which can be seen from many of the bedrooms.

Description:

Historic Roman pizzeria which, for over 40 years, has stood out because of its 'family feel' and for its wide variety of pizzas. Sometimes you may have to queue for a short while, but be patient, the service is very fast and the pizza is really worth the wait! You'll also find mouth-watering bruschette, various salads, mushrooms, beans, and super home-made desserts.

Description:

Tradition says that Campo dei Fiori was named after the woman loved by Pompey, Flora, but it is more likely to have come from something a bit less romantic: in the 14th century, Campo dei Fiori was a long-abandoned field filled with flowers. In the second half of the 19th century the square was used for a colourful market that has been held each morning since then. It was also the scene of many executions, most notably that of Giordano Bruno, the philosopher who was burned here in 1600. The statue dedicated to him replaced a fountain that was moved to the nearby Chiesa Nuova square, and a reproduction of it was moved to the side of the Campo dei Fiori.

Description:

Pope Sixtus IV called on the architect Baccio Pontelli for the construction of this church at the end of the 15th century, during a period of peace after the end of the war with the Turks. It was, indeed, dedicated to the Madonna, as a token of thanks for that peace. At the beginning of the 16th century Bramante added the cloister, which, though modest in itself, lent an effect of size to the church. Among the frescoes present are Raphael's 'Sybil' and 'Prophets', designed by Raphael but executed by his pupil Timoteo Viti.

Description:

Based upon an architectural sketch by Michelangelo, items in this museum range from first century BC to 17th century AD.

Our Local Expert Says:

All year round, this square is filled with artists, circus acts and puppet performers.

Description:

During the Christmas season this square is packed with stalls selling toys, sweets and decorations for the Nativity scene or Christmas tree, making it a favourite spot for children. Its unusual shape recalls the time of Domitian, who built a stadium for equestrian displays here. The Fountain of the Rivers, with the obelisk, and the Fountain of the Moor, with the god of the sea, at the centre of the square, are both by Bernini.

Description:

Elegant restaurant composed of three rooms, one of which has a large fireplace; the family atmosphere makes this the ideal place bring children. The food is simple and hearty, with a wide selection of delicious first courses, authentic Roman dishes and polenta with sausages and pork ribs ('spuntature'). After-theatre dinner may be booked.

Description:

This government-rated five-star hotel has raised the bar for every other hotel in the city. For service, style, and modern luxuries, it beats out the Eden, the Westin Excelsior, and the St. Regis Grand. Just off the Piazza del Popolo, it opened in the spring of 2000 to rave reviews. In its previous incarnation, it was a favorite of Russian dignitaries (hence its name), and it also has hosted Jean Cocteau, Stravinsky, and Picasso. Public areas are glossy and contemporary. About 30% of the bedrooms are conservative, with traditional furniture, while the remaining 70% are more minimalist, with a stark, striking style. Each is equipped with every conceivable high-tech amenity and offers deeply upholstered comforts. The signature feature is the extensive terraced gardens, which can be seen from many of the bedrooms.

Our Local Expert Says:

This is the best equivalent of Italian fast food.

Description:

A big chain of pizzerias with numerous locations in Rome as well as other major cities throughout Italy and the world. A refined but informal, pleasant setting for true lovers of pasta and pizza. The pasta is made in many different ways and you can choose a classical pizza or select your own ingredients, which is the specialty of this locale, so let your imagination run wild! Excellent hors d'oeuvres buffet, salads and desserts.

Description:

This collection is housed in a building constructed in 1613 for Cardinal Scipione Borghese, one of Bernini's greatest patrons. In fact, this great sculptor has exhibited some of his most famous sculptures here; amongst them is the renowned 'Apollo and Daphne.' When one thinks of the Museo Borghese, the sculpture that immediately springs to mind is Canova's 'Pauline Borghese,' in which she poses as Venus, wearing just a drape around her midriff. There are six major pieces by Caravaggio in the Galleria, including 'The boy with a basket of fruit' and the 'Madonna della Serpe.' Titian is also represented with 'Sacred and Profane Love,' Rafael with 'The Deposition,' and there are important works by Correggio. The gallery can only hold 300 visitors at a time, so it is advisable to book in advance.

Our Local Expert Says:

Make sure to request a map of the park as there are many hidden sights and museums.

Description:

Design of the villa began at the start of the 17th century when Pope Paul V Borghese was elected. Its style resembles that of city villas from 100 years earlier. The gardens were especially cared for - aviaries were added to house exotic birds and areas of the gardens were stocked with peacocks, ostriches, gazelles and even lions. Over the years, the garden was altered into an English-style space designed by Jacob Moore. One of the park's loveliest areas is the Lake Garden, which is enclosed by a railing that emphasises the lake's irregular shape. In the centre of an artificial island, a temple was built dedicated to Aesculapius. The famous Square of Siena has been the scene of horse-jumping and carriage-racing competitions since it was first built.

Description:

Pizza al metrò (by the meter) has made Gigino famous, which now also specializes in dishes from Sorrento. There are more than thirty varieties of Pizza al metro, and it is the restaurant's pièce de resistance. There are also other dishes from the region on the menu, such as Torte Rustiche, fried dishes, salads and desserts. There is a wonderful grill on view which is used for preparing meat, cheese and vegetables recipes.

Description:

This government-rated five-star hotel has raised the bar for every other hotel in the city. For service, style, and modern luxuries, it beats out the Eden, the Westin Excelsior, and the St. Regis Grand. Just off the Piazza del Popolo, it opened in the spring of 2000 to rave reviews. In its previous incarnation, it was a favorite of Russian dignitaries (hence its name), and it also has hosted Jean Cocteau, Stravinsky, and Picasso. Public areas are glossy and contemporary. About 30% of the bedrooms are conservative, with traditional furniture, while the remaining 70% are more minimalist, with a stark, striking style. Each is equipped with every conceivable high-tech amenity and offers deeply upholstered comforts. The signature feature is the extensive terraced gardens, which can be seen from many of the bedrooms.

Description:

This family-run restaurant has the father preparing the food in the kitchen and the rest of the family dealing with the guests in a tranquil atmosphere. The recently restored building is more than 300 years old and is very attractive. On Tuesdays and Fridays fish dishes are available, while roast meat dishes are served during the rest of the week. The wine list, including house wine, is not very long, but is in line with the food on offer. You can eat late if you book.

Description:

The Vatican is among the most important historical sites in the world. The seat of the Holy Roman Catholic Church, The Vatican is also the home of the Pope. As the smallest state in the world, the Vatican has figured in key events throughout history. Occupying about one half kilometer of Rome, The Vatican is further significant because of its fabulous architecture, religious, and artistic treasures. It was Pope Julius II della Rovere in the 16th century who commissioned Michelangelo to paint the history of creation on the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel. Among countless other notable events in the history of this important city are the convening of the College of Cardinals, at the death of a reigning Pontiff, for the purposes of electing a new Pope. No visit to Rome is complete without an excursion to The Vatican, a place so steeped in history and tradition that you will never forget it.

Description:

Visiting Rome for the first time, visitors must experience the Sistine Chapel, the Vatican structure with 50 million monthly visitors. The Chapel was built between 1477 and 1481 by Pope Sixtus IV. From 1480 to 1483 the walls were decorated by famous artists of Renaissance, such as Botticelli, Perugino, Ghirlandaio. After twenty years, Julius II commissioned Michelangelo to decorate the ceiling in 1508. Today, after the restoration, tourists can visit the chapel and see Michelangelo's 'Last Judgement'. The Vatican has placed its enormous art collection on the Web in hopes that it will attract more tourists. The site allows visitors to take a virtual reality tour of some of the dozen museums and galleries that make up the Vatican collection, viewing Michelangelo's Sistine Chapel with a three-dimensional video. At the Chapel, you will invariably find it crowded with hundreds of tourists, so be prepared. The best way to see it is to go to the Vatican Museums early, so that you're among the first in line when they open. Silence should be observed and photography is not prohibited.

Description:

Enclosed by Bernini's magnificent colonnade, this square has the largest number of visitors in the world. Millions of tourists wait here either for the Pope's Sunday blessing or to enter the Basilica. More than a square, the colonnade gives it the atmosphere of a courtyard, inviting people to enter the church. During Christmas, a nativity scene and a Christmas tree are installed, and there is a remarkable atmosphere of celebration, with the majestic dome dominating the scene behind.

Description:

People come by the millions each year to receive the Pope's blessing, traditionally given on Sundays at noon. St Peter's has undergone many transformations since the original Constantine basilica of AD320. The top of its majestic dome (designed by Michelangelo), provides the best vantage point from which to marvel at Bernini's magnificent colonnade surrounding the square, the gilded bronze canopy above the altar and Michelangelo's Pietà. Bramante, Pietro da Cortona and Canova are just a handful of the many other artists who worked together on this monumental basilica's decoration and design.

Description:

This government-rated five-star hotel has raised the bar for every other hotel in the city. For service, style, and modern luxuries, it beats out the Eden, the Westin Excelsior, and the St. Regis Grand. Just off the Piazza del Popolo, it opened in the spring of 2000 to rave reviews. In its previous incarnation, it was a favorite of Russian dignitaries (hence its name), and it also has hosted Jean Cocteau, Stravinsky, and Picasso. Public areas are glossy and contemporary. About 30% of the bedrooms are conservative, with traditional furniture, while the remaining 70% are more minimalist, with a stark, striking style. Each is equipped with every conceivable high-tech amenity and offers deeply upholstered comforts. The signature feature is the extensive terraced gardens, which can be seen from many of the bedrooms.