7 things to do in Rome when it rains
Rome is not like any other city. It’s a big museum, a living room that shall be crossed on one’s toes. – Alberto Sordi.
It is a well known fact that Rome is one of the most beautiful cities of Italy and Europe. Its beauty has been the inspiration behind many poems, songs, and stories. In fact, even when it is covered with dark, depressing clouds and its historical streets are wet by heavy rain, the city can still take your breath away.
So if you’re in Rome (either because you live here or because you’re visiting), it would be such a shame to stay indoors just because it’s raining! The capital of Italy has so much to offer, even on a rainy day, so grab your jacket, your umbrella and your camera, and head out!
First stop: Babington’s tea room for a hot cup of tea! Babington’s is in Piazza di Spagna and it has a beautiful decoration and a super cosy atmosphere. The menu includes a great variety of tea infusions, premium quality coffee and delicious breakfast, brunch and lunch dishes. Your stomach will be thankful.
After a heartwarming tea, it’s time to do some sightseeing. The Pantheon is one of the gems of Rome. Its imposing yet inviting architecture is the focal point of Piazza della Rotonda. How could one not want to discover what is hidden inside?
Once you explore the inside of the Pantheon, you can then head underground to one of the catacombs of Rome. Some of the most famous options are the Catacombs of Saint Sebastian (Via Appia Antica, 136), the Catacombs of Domitilla (Via delle Sette Chiese, 282) and the Catacombs of St. Callixtus (Via Appia Antica, 110/126). Or better yet, explore the Borghese Gallery’s sumptuous sculptures and paintings by artists like Bernini, or explore the Popes’ private collections at the Vatican Museums.
After all this walking, you must surely be hungry! When in Rome, you must eat traditional Roman dishes, so head to Trastevere, in Via della Paglia, where you will find Tonnarello, a traditional Roman restaurant with the most delicious carbonara you will ever eat! Apart from its mouth-watering dishes, Tonnarello also offers a relaxed atmosphere, friendly staff members and amazing prices.
After you eat your favourite Italian dish, you can watch a movie! Just 4 minutes away from Tonnarello there is Cinema Intrastevere, a lovely cinema that offers original language movies. Don’t you just love watching a film on rainy days? If you’re not up for a movie, how about a shopping spree? What better place than the newly opened La Rinascente department store on Via del Tritone?
Before you return home, you MUST indulge in a wine tasting near Campo de’ Fiori. Head to this cozy enoteca and taste 6 different Italian fine wines accompanied by cured meats, cheese, olives and more as you listen as the sommelier takes you on a journey around Italy’s wine production.
Rainy days are not that bad after all… especially when you’re in the Eternal City!
