Rome Guide
Rome has captivated travellers for centuries, but few know how to unlock the city quite like Emily FitzRoy. As founder of Bellini Travel, she's spent the past 26 years introducing clients to a side of Italy that most visitors never see - from extraordinary private access and under-the-radar experiences to the people and places that make a trip truly unforgettable. It's an expertise that has also seen her work with HBO as the Italian specialist behind The White Lotus and Succession. Here, Emily shares her insider's guide to the Eternal City, with her tips on where to go, when to visit and how to experience Rome beyond the crowds.
In my opinion, Rome is the most fascinating city in Europe. Even if everything about the city feels chaotic, try to keep your cool. The Romans still dream of ruling the world and every bus driver thinks he is Julius Caesar. Nothing you can do will make them change their minds. The key to enjoying Rome is to relax and not end up with cultural indigestion, there is so much to see and do (eat and drink), you need to be selective and remind yourself you can always come back.
Rome is busier than ever with visitors. Don’t even think of going to the Trevi Fountain during the day, like so much of Rome it’s far more enjoyable to see after dinner with an ice cream in hand - yes, even in the depths of winter, it’s perfectly acceptable to eat gelato after midnight (and always in a coppa not a cone). And try to remember it’s surprisingly easy to avoid the crowds if you know where and when to go.
