A city of contradictions. A city mired in politics, the smell of coffee, blinding sunshine, horn honking and hilariously original forms of parking. Rome is not an easy city for new arrivals. While the tourists walk around in a daze, living in Rome is a whole other story.
Step 1) you’ve got to learn Italian – the basics are not hard to grasp and it will change your life and experience as the most minor attempts are highly appreciated by Romans, sick and bored of ignorant troops of tourists.
Step 2) let go your home comfort of a functioning public transport system: if you can, I promise you will fall in love with the eternal city. In this regard, to avoid unnecessary stress, try to find accommodation either in the centre, close to your university or close to a metro/tram line. Don’t count too much on the buses either…
It seems Rome has succeeded in remaining wrapped in some kind of wonderful dolce vita past. Apart from when you have to wait for a delayed bus or try to cross the road, you will be relaxed in Rome. Its beauty is unrivaled in the world, and waking up to a blue sky every morning will change your life (if you’re coming from a typically “greyer” climate).
Nonchalantly drinking espresso and eating delicious gelatos is a way of life in Rome. For the best ice-creams in the centre, try out the famous Ciampini and Grom, and our personal favourite: Gelateria del Teatro on Via dei Coronari, just behind Piazza Navona: the ice-cream is all home-made with fresh ingredients and you can eat on a warm night strolling down this scenic Roman street or just sitting on the steps of the Theatre beside it. You’re in for a magic feel! Breakfast outdoors in Rome is also great, try out the famous wholegrain honey croissants (“cornetti”) and decide for yourself whether they rival with the French ones!
The country holds a unique world record: it is ranked No 1 in the number of UNESCO Heritage Sites that are present in any country. Whether it’s Rome, Milan, Bologna, Venice or Naples, there is no shortage of stunning cultural sites and natural beauty.
Delicious italian food and wine
While world-famous for its historic sites, Rome is also so renowned for its food! You won’t find better pizza and pasta and all sorts of other dishes than in this city.
The Roman pizza is typically super thin and crispy, whereas the one of Naples is much thicker and while it’s delicious, it will also make your stomach explode!
For great Pasta, try “Macaroni” behind the Pantheon, pizza is great just about anywhere and, when the belt is starting to feel tight, the best salads can be found at “Insalata Ricca” (you can find one for example beside Piazza Navona).
While Rome’s top places to see are revealed on our page on culture & events, here are two other great things you can do while spending your months in the country’s capital:
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Hop on the train with some friends to the beach! It’s called “Ostia” and it’s only 40 minutes away – go for a sunbathe in the summer or a nice stroll under the winter sun during the colder months, to breathe some nice sea air instead of exhaust fumes! -
If you’re looking for a new experience, hop on the train to Naples! This chaotic, labyrinth-like city is worlds apart from Rome, and you may even wonder whether you are still in Italy when you arrive. The food here is amazing but real heavy! You can also walk along the sea front for miles – it’s stunning. You will also see some funny things like a family on a moped all without helmets, or even a woman sipping espresso while driving her moped. Just don’t let yourself be surprised :) Now, on a more serious note, Naples is known for its mafia and pickpockets, so watch your bag and make sure you don’t stroll off the “typical” path.
One cannot end describing Italy without mentioning fast cars and bikes. Ferrari and Lamborgini, the two brands that have redefined luxury, style, statement and cutting edge technology, are headquartered here.
Ducati, a legendary brand in two wheelers, is a product of Italy as well. If you want to experience high octane racing and to know the kind of passion these three names evoke, just go for a Formula One or MotoGP race on a Sunday and get drowned in the sea of red in the stadium!
