​Rome is a city brimming with famous landmarks, from the Colosseum to the Vatican. But beyond the usual tourist spots, there are remarkable hidden places in Rome waiting to be explored. We've chosen some unique things to do in Rome, here are four fascinating destinations that remain largely undiscovered.

1. The Secret Apartments of Palazzo Doria Pamphilj – A Private Glimpse into Aristocratic Rome
(Via del Corso, 305)
As you stroll along Via del Corso, you may notice the grand Palazzo Doria Pamphilj, famous for its stunning art collection, including masterpieces by Caravaggio, Velázquez, and Titian. (https://ticketroma.doriapamphilj.it/biglietteria/biglietto-galleria/).
However, beyond the well-known galleries lies a truly exclusive experience—the recently opened private apartments of the Doria Pamphilj family. These luxurious rooms, once off-limits to visitors, offer an intimate glimpse into aristocratic life, complete with lavish furnishings and intricate decor.
Among the highlights is the breathtaking princess’s bathroom, a masterpiece of design and elegance that feels like stepping into a fairytale.
Opening Hours:

• Monday to Thursday: 9:00 - 18:30
• Friday: 9:00 - 20:00
• Saturday: 10:00 - 20:00
• Sunday: 10:00 - 18:00

Entrance Fee to the apartments (not the Gallery!): €6 (valid for a year and includes access to Ospitale Santa Francesca Romana Chapel)
https://www.florididoriapamphiljtour.com/appartamenti-segreti-doria-pamphilj/
Tickets: https://shop.midaticket.it/palazzodoriapamphilj/Event/48/Dates



2. The Tomb of Evelyn Eldredge – The Angel of Sorrow at the Non-Catholic Cemetery (Via Caio Cestio, 6)
Tucked away in Rome’s Non-Catholic Cemetery, this hauntingly beautiful tomb is dedicated to Evelyn Eldredge, known as the Angel of Sorrow. The monument is a striking representation of grief and love, sculpted with intricate detail that leaves a lasting impression.
This historic cemetery is also the final resting place of poets John Keats and Percy Bysshe Shelley, making it a must-visit for history and literature lovers alike. A poignant and deeply moving site, this remarkable piece of funerary art is an emotional and artistic treasure waiting to be discovered.
Opening Hours:

• Monday to Saturday: 9:00 - 16:30
• Sunday: 9:00 - 12:30

Entrance Fee: Free (donations welcomed)

​
3. Underground in Trastevere – The Secret Crypt of Basilica di Santa Cecilia (Piazza Santa Cecilia, 22)
Beneath the beautiful Basilica di Santa Cecilia in Trastevere lies an ancient underground world filled with history and mystery. This hidden crypt is adorned with stunning mosaics, early Christian relics, and fascinating archaeological remains.
A mesmerising journey into the depths of Rome’s past, this subterranean sanctuary is a must-visit for those intrigued by the city’s layered history. It’s an experience that brings you closer to Rome’s early Christian roots in an atmosphere of quiet reflection.
Opening Hours:

• Monday to Saturday: 10:00 - 12:00, 16:00 - 18:00
• Sunday and Bank Holidays: 11:30 - 12:30, 16:00 - 18:00

Entrance Fee: €2.50

4. Palazzo Sciarra Colonna – A Forgotten Jewel in Rome’s Historic Center (Via Minghetti, 22, Roma)
This breathtaking 16th-century palace is often overlooked, yet it offers an unparalleled glimpse into Rome’s aristocratic splendour. With its lavish frescoes, intricate ceilings, and elegant courtyards, Palazzo Sciarra Colonna is an architectural marvel tucked away near the bustling city center.
Unlike other historic residences, this palace is free to visit—You must book a guided tour in English and it’s best to do it about a month in advance to gain access to this exclusive treasure trove of art and history on the day that you require as few spaces are available. Weekends only.
Entrance Fee: Free (advance booking required). 
​https://museodelcorso.com/en/palazzo-sciarra-eng/

Why These Places Deserve a Spot on Your Itinerary
Rome has no shortage of iconic landmarks, but sometimes the most memorable experiences come from the places you weren’t expecting to find. Whether you’re exploring the opulence of a noble family’s private quarters, discovering a poetic tomb, wandering through underground history, or stepping into a forgotten palace, these spots will make you see the city in a whole new light.
So next time you’re in Rome, take a detour from the usual itinerary and uncover the side of the city that most tourists never see.

So, you just finished watching La Dolce Villa and now you’re convinced you can buy a stunning Italian villa in Tuscany for just €1? Hate to burst your bubble, but that’s not quite how it works. While the idea of €1 homes in Italy is real, the reality is far from the rom-com fantasy Netflix would have you believe.

What’s the Catch with €1 Homes?
Yes, some towns in Italy do sell houses for €1—but there are some serious strings attached. First, these homes are usually in tiny, off-the-beaten-path villages that are desperate to attract new residents. Second, they require significant renovation, often costing tens of thousands of euros (or more). Plus, buyers must commit to fixing up the property within a set timeframe, which can be a logistical nightmare if you don’t already live in Italy.
Translation: it’s not free. You need to factor in renovation costs, bureaucratic hurdles, and a good dose of patience. Also, many of these homes are in remote villages that, while charming, might not offer the “Under the Tuscan Sun” lifestyle you’re envisioning.

Where Can You Actually Find Affordable Property in Italy?
If you’re serious about buying a home in Italy but don’t want to deal with the headache of a €1 project, you’re in luck—there are plenty of budget-friendly homes for sale that don’t come with the same red tape. Many small towns and rural areas have move-in-ready homes for less than the price of a used car!
Here are a few jaw-droppingly cheap listings currently on the market:

• Central Italy
  Cheap house for sale in a medieval village in Cellere, Tuscia (between the coast and Lake Bolsena!) – €20,000 – Lots of light and looks ready to move in. Just over an hour from Rome
  https://www.casa.it/immobili/50898506/
  
  
• Northern Italy
  Fancy Piemonte?! Priola Province of Cuneo at €14,000 – Maybe needs a coat of paint, and some good heating  (just over 500 m above sea level) but that's less than a small car!
  https://www.idealista.it/en/immobile/31880028/
  
  
• Southern Italy
  How about Puglia, Carovigno for €75,000 – 2 bedrooms with star vault ceiling in that beautiful typical pale stone. I found this listed on two different sites.
  https://connecthouses.com/en/properties/266800/townhouse-in-carovigno/
  https://www.casapuglia.com/property/groundfloor-2-bedroom-apartment-with-stunning-star-vault-ceilings-carovigno/

(These prices are real but may change quickly!)
NB: They are not my listings and I just browsed the web to find you some examples!

How you can Find Cheap Homes in Italy 
If you’re looking to buy property in Italy, here’s how to improve your chances:

1. Use the Right Keywords – Search for cheap houses in Italy, affordable Italian homes, Italy real estate bargains, and rural Italian homes for sale to find the best deals. (Maybe even translate these to Italian using Google)
2. Check Italian Real Estate Websites – Browse local property listings such as Immobiliare.it, Idealista,  Gate-away and even Facebook for updated deals
3. Work with a Local Agent – Many of the best bargains are not listed online, so having an Italian real estate agent can help.
4. Consider Lesser-Known Regions – Instead of Tuscany, check out Lazio, Abruzzo, Molise, Calabria, and Sicily for some of the most affordable homes.
5. Be Ready to Act Fast – Cheap homes in Italy sell quickly, so if you find a great deal, be prepared to move forward.

The Takeaway: A cheap home in Italy is possible
Instead of chasing the €1 home dream and getting caught up in endless bureaucracy, consider looking at genuinely affordable properties that offer real value. There are so many overlooked gems in Italy that don’t require jumping through hoops—just a little bit of patience and a keen eye for deals.

Get ready to step back in time and experience Ancient Rome like never before at Rome World, the brand new theme park opening on March 24th next to Cinecittà World. It's a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to immerse yourself in the culture and activities of an ancient Roman, all while surrounded by nature.
There are so many exciting things to do and see at Rome World, from thrilling gladiator shows to the chance to stay overnight in a camp just like a real Roman soldier. You can try your hand at archery, watch incredible falconry shows, and enjoy a delicious Roman lunch or dinner at the Taberna. And don't forget to browse the ancient market for souvenirs!
For 2023, Rome World is introducing an exciting new feature: the Magic Forest. This enchanting path is lined with lights, projections, and sound effects, creating a truly magical experience as you explore the forest of cork oaks.
As if that weren't enough, visitors to Rome World who hold an access ticket to the Capitoline Museums can enjoy free entry to the theme park, thanks to a collaboration between Cinecittà World and the Campidoglio.
Rome World is dedicated to recreating the Imperial Rome experience, with the aim of immersing millions of guests and tourists in history over the years. And coming in 2024, don't miss "Rome on Fire," a stunning evening show set against the backdrop of the Ben Hur set.
But the excitement doesn't stop there - on June 2nd, Aqua World will launch as the first phase of the new Cinecittà World water park. Relax on sandy beaches, take a dip in the Cinepiscina or the slow river Paradiso, and feel the rush of thrills on the two new large slides, Vortex and Boomerang.
Get ready to embark on a truly magical adventure at Rome World and Cinecittà World. Let the fun begin!

The question many tourist are asking themselves: Is it safe to travel to Italy with the Coronavirus Covid 19 outbreak? Well you should consider these points.
1. It is possible that more cases have been reported because the Italian health authority has carried out more tests than anywhere else. (4000 compared to France's 300)
2. Italians like drama. 
3.Italian media love to gossip instead of reporting.
4. Of the 12 deaths in Italy, most were already very ill with other pathologies.
5. Cases have been reported in Austria, Switzerland, Algeria...France are preparing.
6. One of the reasons it spread in Italy is because the first guy to catch it didn't report to his doctor, even though he had met with a friend who had just returned from China. 
7. The case in Florence, was a Norwegian boy, who had also been in Munich and two weeks before he appeared to have the virus, he had been in his own country. So nothing excludes he didn't catch it in Norway.
​8. There are carriers that have no symptoms, who could be anywhere in the World
9. More deaths occur for any 'normal' flu.
10. Not to mention for cancer, heat attacks, pollution....
11. What is the answer? Use common sense, wash your hands well, avoid people that cough and sneeze, avoid touching handrails at the airport, malls, and maybe stuffy and closed places.

Suggestion; take a nice trip to Frascati, in the fresh, open air, drink wine and make the most of life.

1. It is subjective! You need to think about what your expectations are. Do you just want a day away from the noise of the city, or are you looking for something more in-depth and educational.
2. Consider how long you want your tour to last. Do you want to spend a whole day or are a few hours sufficient. 
3. Are you serious about your wine and fussy about what you drink and look for good wines.
4. Do you need a transfer from your hotel, airbnb, or would you consider a short train-ride.
5. Do you want to visit more than one winery.
6. Do you mind if the tour is run by someone without legal credentials. (In Italy you have to be a licensed tour operator to put just two services together - ie. Transport and guided tour, for example).
7. Do you mind if whoever is running your tour doesn't have insurance.
8. Do you want a private tour just for your own party, or would you like to mingle with other people in a large group.

These are the main things to consider. There are some lovely wineries in Frascati so you have a host of choice to make sure you are getting a quality experience. Enjoy our lovely wine country!

Traditional Regional Cuisine 
The term “Roman Cuisine” doesn’t just refer to culinary specialities of the city of Rome alone, but also to dishes from the surrounding, neighbouring areas that have been strongly influenced by Roman traditional food specialities. Amongst which the nearest is, of course, the Castelli Romani,. An area that has always been the Capital’s pantry, vegetable garden and cellar. Important figures to remember, are the “carrettieri a vino’ that took wine into Rome overnight from the Castelli Romani, to replenish Rome’s Osterias, on their horse-drawn carts.
The “Castellana” cuisine is abundant with famous dishes that are usually attributed to Rome, but which, in the “Castelli” take on new flavours and aromas, with the additional bonus of wonderful panoramas to admire straight out of the restaurant windows. The hospitality of the Castelli is also renowned; top-notch “oste” and restauranteurs bend over backwards to make their guests feel at home, whilst the fresh and crisp air will ensure a healthy appetite!
Practically everywhere in the Castelli you can find dishes that are true to Roman tradition. This means you will easily come across typical pasta dishes such as: gricia, rigatoni cacio e pepe, bucatini all’amatriciana, fettuccine alla papalina, fettuccine con rigaglie di pollo, minestra di broccoli con arzilla, spaghetti alla carbonara, pasta con il cavolo, rigatoni con la pajata. Main courses such as abbacchio scottadito or alla cacciatora, trippa alla romana, coratella d’abbacchio, coda alla vaccinara, pollo alla diavola or with peperoni, saltimbocca alla romana, carciofi alla giudia, are just as common in the Castelli as in Rome.
On the other hand, the most characteristic dishes of the Castelli Romani, are those based on local produce such as mushrooms (be they porcini, galletti or ovuli, gathered by licensed foragers in the local woods), chestnuts, broccoli, ‘regina’ beans, artichokes, fava-beans, asparagus (often of the wild variety), ramoracce (wild radish, charlock), chicory, cabbage, fish from the lakes and of course, game. It is hard to avoid mentioning Fettuccine ai funghi porcini, la Vignarola (a spring vegetable ‘stew’ made with fava-beans, artichokes, peas, spring onions, lettuce and jowl bacon), Regina bean and chestnut soup, matticella artichokes. This is just the tip of the iceberg though!
Dry patisserie can be found in every bakery, restaurant and osteria: biscuits, ciambelline al vino (remember that anything with a hole in it in Italy takes the name of doughnut!), pangiallo (a dense mix of dried fruit, candied peel and nuts), tozzetti (like cantucci but with hazelnuts) and mostaccioli (chewy biscuits, yet again with dried fruits, nuts, spices and honey).
All of the recipes from Rome and the Castelli, including the desserts, should of course be rigorously accompanied with the famous DOP, DOC and DOCG local wines: Frascati, Frascati Superiore, Colli Lanuvini, Colli Albani, Castelli Romani, Cannellino, Velletri, Marino, Monte Compatri-Colonna.

To find out more here is a link to a guide of Typical dishes of the Castelli Romani 

Tourists in Rome head to Trastevere to try to get a taste of authentic Rome in the evenings. It is, after all, a place full of restaurants, wine bars and ice cream parlours. With old lanes, beer bars and shops open till late in the Summer. Romans will all have their favourite pizza place and pizzerias like Popi Popi have been there for decades, even though now, handsome and charming Italian waiters have been replaced with cheaper foreign labour. So where do the Romans go when Trastevere fills up with tourists in shorts-and-straw-hats--licking-ice creams? To Frascati of course. Just as they always have done. They know that it is at least 3 or 4 degrees centigrade cooler and that there is usually a lovely evening breeze. 350 meters above sea level, the ancient Romans used to go there for the same reasons as people do today: fresh air, good food, good wine and good company. Piazza San Rocco is the latest favourite Piazza (in the photo), and there are a host of great wine bars, restaurants and award winning gelaterie all over town. Tables outside with views and much less smog and cars than the center of Rome. The famous Frascati wines (only in bottle is DOC or DOCG ) taste wonderful al fresco. And unlike Trastevere you will hear people around you actually speak in Italian. 

From the WSJ!!! ​http://www.wsj.com/articles/why-the-wine-of-the-pope-is-worth-rediscovering-1463417936