How to Experience Rome Like a Local: The Ultimate Guide

Last Updated: Jun 26, 2023
Reading Time: 12 minutes
By: Shaun

Rome is one of the most visited cities in the world, and for good reason. It’s a treasure trove of history, art, culture, and cuisine that attracts millions of tourists every year. But if you want to experience Rome like a local, you need to go beyond the usual attractions and explore the city’s authentic side.

In this ultimate guide, we’ll show you how to experience Rome like a local and enjoy its unique charm. You’ll learn how to:

Choose the best accommodation in local neighbourhoods.
Discover off-the-beaten-path attractions and historical sites.
Sample traditional Roman cuisine and street food.
Visit local markets and shop like a Roman.
Take a passeggiata and enjoy the Roman lifestyle.
Engage with local festivals and events.
Visit nearby towns and villages for a day trip.

Ready to experience Rome like a local? Let’s get started!

How to Experience Rome Like a Local: Tips for Immersing Yourself in Italian Culture

Choose the Best Accommodation in Local Neighbourhoods

Trastevere | Image by user32212 on Pixabay

One of the first steps to experience Rome like a local is to choose the right accommodation. Instead of staying at hotels in touristy areas, opt for more authentic options in local neighbourhoods. You’ll get a better sense of how Romans live, and you’ll also save money and avoid crowds.

Some of the best neighbourhoods to stay in Rome are:

Trastevere: This is one of the most charming and lively areas of Rome, with its narrow streets, colourful buildings, and bohemian vibe. It’s full of cosy restaurants, bars, cafes, and shops where you can mingle with locals and enjoy the nightlife.
Monti: This is another trendy and hip neighbourhood, located near the Colosseum and the Roman Forum. It’s popular with young professionals, artists, and students who frequent its boutiques, galleries, and vintage shops. It also has a great selection of restaurants, pubs, and wine bars.
Testaccio: This is a former working-class district that has become a foodie paradise. It’s home to some of the best trattorias, pizzerias, gelaterias, and bakeries in Rome, as well as the famous Nuovo Mercato di Testaccio, a modern farmer’s market. It also has a vibrant cultural scene, with museums, theatres, and clubs.
Prati: This is a more upscale and elegant neighbourhood, located near the Vatican City. It’s ideal for those who want to enjoy some peace and quiet while still being close to the main attractions. It has wide avenues, elegant buildings, and chic shops. It also boasts some of the best restaurants in Rome, especially for seafood lovers.

Discover Off-the-Beaten-Path Attractions and Historical Sites

Aventine Keyhole | Image by Galen Crout on Wikimedia Commons

To experience Rome like a local, you need to venture beyond the famous landmarks and discover some of the hidden gems that most tourists miss. Rome is full of surprises, and you’ll find amazing attractions and historical sites that will enrich your visit.

Some of the off-the-beaten-path attractions and historical sites in Rome are:

The Pyramid of Cestius: This is an ancient pyramid built around 18 BC as a tomb for a Roman magistrate named Caius Cestius. It’s one of the best-preserved ancient monuments in Rome, and it stands out for its unusual shape and location. It’s located near the Porta San Paolo gate, next to the Protestant Cemetery, where poets John Keats and Percy Shelley are buried.
The Aventine Keyhole: This is a small keyhole on a green door that leads to the Villa del Priorato di Malta, the headquarters of the Knights of Malta. If you peek through it, you’ll see a stunning view of St. Peter’s Basilica, framed by cypress trees. It’s one of the most romantic spots in Rome, and it’s free to visit.
The Appian Way: This is one of the oldest and most important roads in ancient Rome, connecting the city with southern Italy. It’s lined with ancient tombs, monuments, catacombs, villas, and churches that date back to different periods of history. You can walk or bike along it and enjoy its scenic beauty.
The Quartiere Coppedè: This is a whimsical neighbourhood that showcases the eclectic architecture of Gino Coppedè, a 20th-century artist and architect. It’s composed of 26 buildings and 17 villas that feature a mix of styles, from Art Nouveau to Gothic to Baroque. You’ll find ornate facades, sculptures, fountains, arches, and mosaics that create a fairy-tale atmosphere.

Sample Traditional Roman Cuisine and Street Food

Cacio e Pepe | Image by Allagash Brewing on Flickr

One of the best ways to experience Rome like a local is to savour its incredible culinary offerings. Dine at neighbourhood osterias, trattorias, and gelaterias that are popular with locals. Don’t forget to pair your meals with local wines and finish with a delicious scoop of gelato.

Some of the traditional Roman dishes and street food you should try are:

Cacio e pepe: This is a simple but delicious pasta dish made with pecorino cheese and black pepper. It’s one of the most iconic dishes in Roman cuisine, and you’ll find it in almost every restaurant in the city.
Carbonara: This is another classic pasta dish, made with eggs, cheese, bacon, and black pepper. It’s rich and creamy, and it’s best enjoyed with a glass of white wine.
Amatriciana: This is a spicy pasta dish made with tomato sauce, guanciale (cured pork cheek), pecorino cheese, and chilli. It’s named after the town of Amatrice, where it originated, but it’s now a staple of Roman cuisine.
Supplì: These are fried rice balls stuffed with cheese and meat sauce. They’re crispy on the outside and gooey on the inside, and they’re perfect for a snack or an appetiser.
Pizza al taglio: This is pizza by the slice, sold in bakeries and street stalls all over Rome. You can choose from a variety of toppings, from cheese and tomato to ham and mushrooms. It’s cheap and tasty, and you can eat it on the go.
Maritozzi: These are sweet buns filled with whipped cream. They’re a typical Roman breakfast or dessert, and they’re often eaten with a cup of coffee or cappuccino.

Visit Local Markets and Shop Like a Roman

Market Stand at Campo de' Fiori | Image by Daniel Ventura on Wikimedia Commons

To experience Rome like a local, you need to visit its local markets and shop like a Roman. You’ll find fresh produce, cheese, meat, fish, bread, wine, and more at these markets, as well as clothes, accessories, antiques, and souvenirs. You’ll also get to interact with the vendors and bargain for the best prices.

Some of the best local markets in Rome are:

Campo de’ Fiori: This is one of the oldest and most famous markets in Rome, located in a picturesque square in the historic centre. It’s open every morning from Monday to Saturday, and it sells everything from fruits and vegetables to flowers and spices. It’s also surrounded by cafes, bars, and restaurants where you can enjoy the lively atmosphere.
Mercato Trionfale: This is one of the largest and most modern markets in Rome, located near the Vatican City. It’s open every morning from Monday to Saturday, and it sells a wide range of products, from food to household items. It’s also a great place to find regional specialties from different parts of Italy.
Porta Portese: This is one of the most famous flea markets in Rome, located in the Trastevere neighbourhood. It’s open every Sunday morning, and it sells everything from vintage clothes and accessories to books and records. It’s a paradise for bargain hunters and collectors.
Borghetto Flaminio: This is one of the most chic and upscale markets in Rome, located near Piazza del Popolo. It’s open every Sunday morning, and it sells high-quality clothes, shoes, bags, jewellery, and art. It’s a great place to find designer brands and unique pieces.

Take a Passeggiata and Enjoy the Roman Lifestyle

Il Vittoriano in Piazza Venezia | Image by Paolo Costa Baldi on Wikimedia Commons

One of the most quintessential ways to experience Rome like a local is to take a passeggiata. This is an Italian tradition of taking a leisurely stroll in the evening before or after dinner. It’s a way to socialise with friends and family, enjoy the fresh air, admire the city lights, and relax after a busy day.

Some of the best places to take a passeggiata in Rome are:

Via del Corso: This is one of the main streets in Rome that runs from Piazza Venezia to Piazza del Popolo. It’s lined with shops, cafes, and monuments, and it’s a popular spot for locals to stroll and window-shop. You can also admire the beautiful churches and fountains along the way, such as San Carlo al Corso and the Fontana del Nettuno.
Via dei Fori Imperiali: This is a street that connects Piazza Venezia with the Colosseum, passing by the Roman Forum and other ancient ruins. It’s a spectacular sight to see at night, when the monuments are lit up and create a dramatic contrast with the dark sky. You can also enjoy the views of Palatine Hill and Capitoline Hill from this street.
Via Margutta: This is a charming street that runs parallel to Via del Babuino, near Piazza del Popolo. It’s famous for its art galleries, studios, and antique shops, and it has a bohemian and romantic atmosphere. It was also featured in the movie Roman Holiday, starring Audrey Hepburn and Gregory Peck.
Via Giulia: This is a street that runs along the Tiber River in the historic centre of Rome. It was designed by Pope Julius II in the 16th century as a model of urban planning and elegance. It’s home to many palaces, churches, and courtyards that showcase the Renaissance style. It’s also a quiet and peaceful street, away from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Engage with Local Festivals and Events

Baths of Caracallae | Image by Paul VanDerWerf on Flickr

Another way to experience Rome like a local is to engage with its local festivals and events. Rome has a rich and varied calendar of celebrations that reflect its culture, history, and traditions. You’ll find religious ceremonies, food festivals, music concerts, sports events, and more throughout the year.

Some of the best festivals and events in Rome are:

Natale di Roma: This is the birthday of Rome, celebrated on April 21 every year. According to legend, Rome was founded by Romulus on this date in 753 BC. The city marks its anniversary with fireworks, concerts, parades, and historical reenactments at the Circus Maximus and other locations.
Estate Romana: This is the Roman Summer Festival, held from June to September. It’s a huge cultural event that features outdoor cinema, opera, ballet, theater, music, and art shows all over the city. Some of the most interesting venues are the Baths of Caracalla, the Teatro Marcello, and the Isola Tiberina.
VinòForum: This is a wine festival held in June near the Tiber River. It showcases over 2,500 wines from 500 producers, along with gourmet food prepared by Michelin-starred chefs. You can also attend master classes and guided wine tastings at the VinòForum Academy.
Ides of March: This is a historical event that commemorates the assassination of Julius Caesar on March 15, 44 BC. Caesar was stabbed by his own senators near the Largo Argentina archaeological site. Every year on this date, actors dressed in Roman togas reenact the scene and pay tribute to the fallen leader.
Carnevale di Roma: This is a carnival that takes place before Lent in February or March. It’s a festive occasion that involves costumes, masks, parades, parties, and street performances. One of the highlights is the Moccoletti Festival, where people light up candles and throw them at each other in Piazza del Popolo.
Six Nations Rugby: This is a rugby tournament that takes place annually between February and March. It involves six European nations: England, France, Ireland, Italy, Scotland, and Wales. The matches are held in each country’s stadiums, and you can catch a game at Rome’s Stadio Olimpico.

Visit Nearby Towns and Villages for a Day Trip

Villa D'Este | Image by Waldo Miguez from Pixabay

Finally, to experience Rome like a local, you should also visit some of the nearby towns and villages that offer a different perspective on Italy. You’ll find charming places that are rich in history, culture, nature, and gastronomy. You can easily reach them by train or bus from Rome.

Some of the best towns and villages for a day trip from Rome are:

Castelli Romani: This is a group of 13 towns and villages located in the Alban Hills southeast of Rome. They are famous for their scenic landscapes, volcanic lakes, mediaeval castles, and wine production. Some of the most popular ones are Frascati, Castel Gandolfo, Nemi, and Ariccia.
Ostia Antica: This is an ancient Roman port city that was once a thriving commercial and cultural centre. It’s now an archaeological site that preserves impressive ruins of temples, theatres, baths, houses, and mosaics. It’s located near the modern town of Ostia Lido, where you can enjoy the beach.
Tivoli: This is a hilltop town that boasts two UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Villa d’Este and Villa Adriana. Villa d’Este is a Renaissance palace with stunning gardens and fountains. Villa Adriana is an ancient Roman villa that was built by Emperor Hadrian as his retreat. Both are worth a visit for their architectural and artistic beauty.
Orvieto: This is a mediaeval town perched on a volcanic rock in Umbria. It’s famous for its Gothic cathedral with a colourful facade and frescoes by Luca Signorelli. It’s also known for its white wine, ceramics, and underground tunnels.

What are some tips for visiting Rome like a local?

Here are some tips and tricks to enhance your visit to Rome:

Learn some basic Italian phrases and greetings. Romans will appreciate your effort and be more friendly and helpful.
Avoid eating at touristy restaurants near the main attractions. Look for places where locals eat, or ask for recommendations from your hotel or tour guide.
Don’t order cappuccino after 11 a.m. Italians consider it a breakfast drink and only drink espresso or macchiato later in the day.
Dress appropriately when visiting churches or religious sites. Cover your shoulders and knees, and avoid wearing shorts, tank tops, or flip-flops.
Respect the siesta time. Many shops and businesses close between 1 p.m. and 4 p.m. for lunch and rest. Plan your activities accordingly, and don’t expect to find everything open all day.
Tip moderately. Tipping is not mandatory in Italy, but it’s appreciated if you receive good service. A 10% tip is usually enough for restaurants, taxis, or guides.

Conclusion

Rome is a city that never ceases to amaze and inspire. It’s a place where you can experience history, culture, art, cuisine, and lifestyle in a unique way. To experience Rome like a local, you need to immerse yourself in its authentic side and discover its hidden gems. Follow this ultimate guide, and you’ll have an unforgettable trip to the Eternal City.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best time to visit Rome?

The best time to visit Rome depends on your preferences and budget. Generally speaking, the spring (April to June) and the fall (September to October) are the best seasons to enjoy the mild weather, the blooming flowers, and the fewer crowds. The summer (July to August) is the peak season, with hot temperatures, high prices, and long lines. The winter (November to March) is the low season, with cold and rainy days but also lower prices and fewer tourists.

How many days do I need to visit Rome?

Rome is a large and diverse city that offers a lot to see and do. To visit Rome like a local, you need at least four or five days to explore its main attractions and hidden gems. However, if you have more time, you can also enjoy some day trips to nearby towns and villages or even extend your stay to other regions of Italy.

How do I get around Rome?

Rome has a public transportation system that consists of buses, trams, metros, and trains. You can buy tickets at newsstands, tobacco shops, or vending machines at metro stations. You can also use taxis or ride-hailing apps like Uber or Free Now. However, the best way to experience Rome like a local is to walk or bike as much as possible. You'll discover more of the city's charm and avoid traffic jams.