Romantic things to do in Rome
Rome is a playground for couples, where romantic side streets meet ancient wonders. Share a bottle of wine and a bowl of pasta as you fall in love all over again in the Eternal City. Plan your trip to celebrate a special occasion or to just celebrate each other. Here are the most romantic activities, restaurants, drinks, and stays in the Eternal City.
PLAY – the most romantic activities to do in Rome
You certainly won’t run out of things to do in Rome, whether you’re more interested in attractions, experiences, or exploration. Stroll through the Centro Storico, the historic center of the Eternal City, and gaze upon ancient wonders like the Pantheon or take in the views from the Spanish Steps and Piazza di Spagna. Stop for gelato along the way at Giolitti or Gelateria San Crispino, two of our favorites. Window shop on Via del Governo Vecchio, a street which is popular with Bohemians for its vintage shops and handmade goods.
Then, sign up for a wine tasting class at a boutique wine bar right near Campo di Fiori. Sample six different wines, as well as salami, cured meats, cheeses, bread, and olives. Wander through the streets of Trastevere and enjoy aperitivo as you sip on an Aperol Spritz. If you’re here during the summer, walk down to the Tiber for the annual Lungo il Tevere and enjoy a variety of pop-up restaurants, shops, and bars. You can catch some of Rome’s best sunsets from the Tiber with stunning views of St. Peter’s. To immerse yourself in nature, the Botanic Garden in Trastevere is a must-see. Janiculum Hill, only a short walk from Trastevere, also offers panoramic views and sunsets to set the mood for your romantic vacation. Into the outdoors? You can’t miss out on a bike ride along the Ancient Appian Way.
STAY – the most romantic neighbourhoods to stay in Rome
Finding the right accommodation can make or break a romantic vacation. Fortunately, Rome offers a variety of neighborhoods which will fit the tastes of any couple. What could be more romantic than a stay in the centro storico, the historic center of Rome? If you plan on doing tours, rent an Airbnb right across from major attractions like the Pantheon or the Trevi Fountain for easy, stress-free mornings. For a more lively atmosphere, stay in Trastevere and get lost together in its ivy-draped, cobblestone streets. This neighborhood sits just across the Tiber from centro storico and is still in walking distance from major sites.
Creative couples will thrive in Monti which is popular with hipsters and artistic types and is only a short walk from the Colosseum. Foodie couples will feel at home in Testaccio, a neighborhood is known for its authentic markets and trattorias where tourists are few and far between. If your romantic vacation includes day trips, you may want to stay in the Termini area near the train station. This neighborhood is also the most affordable and offers the largest variety of hotels.
EAT – the most romantic restaurants in Rome
Luckily, the Romans don’t have to choose between high-quality views and high-quality food. We recommend Baja if you’re interested in a truly unique dining experience. Float along the Tiber in a boat which has been transformed into a cocktail bar, restaurant, and event venue. Its restaurant offers top-notch Italian cuisine with farm-to-table products. For a taste of luxury, reserve a table at Unique al Palatino and relax in its garden of olive and citrus trees. Singer Palace’s rooftop restaurant and lounge also offers stunning views of ancient Rome paired with modern, creative cuisine.
Of course, 47 Circus Roof Garden Restaurant is an equally elegant establishment where you can enjoy seafood and Mediterranean cuisine atop a terrace overlooking the city. If a cozy trattoria is more your speed, try Maccheroni, a favorite for traditional Italian cuisine which is only steps away from the Pantheon. For food made for sharing, head towards the Vatican and settle down at Cresci. Cresci serves Cicchetti, which are similar to tapas, and offers modern twists on home-style Italian cooking.
DRINK – the best bars for couples in Rome
Stumbling upon the right bar for couples can be a challenge, so we’ve handpicked our favorite spots to enhance your romantic evening. Start your night on one of Rome’s top rooftops. We recommend Singer Palace Hotel where you can sip on luxury in perfect view of the center. Tiziano Terrace by Monti View also offers intimate elegance with stunning views of Monti. Check out our guide for even more rooftop recommendations.
For live music and a cozy atmosphere, head to Argot, a speakeasy in Campo de’ Fiori or another cool speakeasy in Rome. Blackmarket Hall in Monti also features live music and vintage vibes with an impressive cocktail menu. Couples will love Alembic Bar in Trastevere which sports a cool and quirky decor and even offers cocktail making classes. If you’d rather enjoy the outdoors, grab a drink and sit outside at Bar San Calisto, located beside the always lively Piazza di Santa Maria in Trastevere.
