A Day in Rome with Riccardo – We chat with concierge Riccardo at the beautiful 5 star Baglioni Hotel Regina in Rome to find out his top tips for exploring the city.
What’s the perfect 24 hours in your city?
Even just one week is not enough! With 24 hours, I would start with Ancient Rome visiting the Colosseum, Roman Forum and Palatine Hill. Afterwards, visit important landmarks including the Trevi Fountain and Spanish Steps . Then enjoy an evening meal in Trastevere, perhaps ‘Checco er Carrettiere’. The area is known to be a funky, old style, bohemian town that was formerly a working-class district. Now it has some great nightlife, and is a great place to explore to get away from the hustle and bustle of Rome.
What is a unique experience that visitors often overlook?
A visit to Piazza Dei Cavalieri Di Malta to peer through the gates of The Knights of Malta for a surprising view towards the Vatican and a stroll through nearby Giardino degli Aranci park (The Orange Garden) – designed in 1932 by Raffaele De Vico, the garden offers excellent views of the city. The parks central square is named after another Roman actor, Fiorenzo Fiorentini, who for many years led the ongoing summer theatre season in the park.
Outside of the main sites, what sightseeing tour do you recommend?
Basilica Parrocchiale Santa Maria del Popolo showcases incredible works from Caravaggio. It stands on the north side of Piazza del Popolo, one of the most famous squares in the city.
What day trips do you recommend from Rome recommend?
To the north, visit Florence’s cobblestone streets and famous art galleries. To the south, take the train to Naples and visit historical Pompeii and Herculaneum, famous for being trapped in time from the volcanic eruption of Mt Vesuvius in 79AD.
Name something that is unique about Rome?
Romans are incredibly friendly and it is common for locals to not just provide direction, but also actually walk tourists to the destination they are searching for. We love our city and want you to enjoy it just as much as we do!
Your best tips for visitors?
- When visiting the Colosseum, if you do not have pre paid admission, go to the Roman Forum ticket office and buy a ticket granting access to both the Roman Forum and Colosseum to beat the lines.
- Be careful on the metro for pickpockets.
- Lastly, at restaurants, when ordering an entrée, be sure to know what you are ordering as Romans do have a penchant for unusual cuisine, including cow brain, which is more of an acquired taste.
