*Gifted PR Trip with Jet2
Exploring the Eternal City: Four Days in Rome
Embarking on an unforgettable adventure with Jet2, we spent four incredible days exploring the timeless beauty and rich history of Rome.
There plenty of options for holidays to Rome with Jet2holidays and this PR trip offered us a unique opportunity to delve into the heart of the Eternal City, experiencing its ancient landmarks, vibrant culture, and, to our delight, its burgeoning vegan food scene. From the historic Colosseum to wandering the charming streets, our journey was filled with unforgettable sights and delicious plant-based culinary delights that showcased Rome’s evolving dining landscape.
While our stay included four nights, the first and last day were primarily devoted to travel, leaving us with three full days to truly explore and immerse ourselves in the wonders of Rome. From the historic Colosseum to the charming streets of Trastevere, our journey was filled with unforgettable sights and delicious plant-based culinary delights that showcased Rome’s evolving dining landscape.
Rome, the Eternal City, is a destination that resonates with history, culture, and unparalleled beauty. A trip to Rome promises a journey through time, where ancient ruins, Renaissance art, and modern vibrancy coalesce. Here’s our three-day itinerary to make the most of your Roman holiday.
Travel Day
Our travel day began smoothly, we are very lucky that Jet2 offer flights from Leeds Bradford Airport. The journey was comfortable and enjoyable, setting a positive tone for our Roman adventure. Upon landing in Rome, we took the train followed by the metro to reach our accommodation, the unique and quirky Mama Shelter Roma.
Mama Shelter Rome welcomed us with its stunning and eclectic interior design, creating an atmosphere that was both vibrant and inviting. The hotel is known for its LGBTQ+ inclusive environment, making it a warm and welcoming place for all guests. Every corner of the hotel was filled with character, from the colourful decor to the playful furniture, making our stay truly memorable.
After checking in, we treated ourselves to some refreshing vegan gelato at L’Arena del Gelato, trying both the strawberry and lemon flavours, which were delightful. Our wanderings led us to Pizzeria Romana al Taglio, where we indulged in some authentic and budget-friendly vegan pizza slices – the mushroom and tomato slices were heavenly. We then strolled past Piazza Navona, which, unfortunately, was under heavy construction and restoration, a common sight in Rome these days.
Our next stop was the Chiesa del Gesù, an early Baroque church renowned for its spectacular murals that create the illusion of ascending into heaven. This church, recently featured on an episode of “Rob And Rylan’s Grand Tour,” offered a special attraction at 5:30 PM: a painting of St. Ignatius that slowly descends to reveal a gilded and dramatic statue of the saint. Witnessing this unique event was a highlight of our day.
As the evening approached, we enjoyed dinner at Rossopomodoro in Largo di Torre Argentina. The restaurant overlooked ancient Roman ruins and served delicious vegan mozzarella pizzas that Jon was eager to try. While the vegan mozzarella didn’t perfectly replicate the traditional cheese, it was tasty nonetheless, and we thoroughly enjoyed our meal, despite the slightly warm Coca-Colas.
We ended our lovely evening with a leisurely walk back to our hotel, crossing the picturesque St. Angelo Bridge. With the anticipation of the days ahead, we turned in early to make the most of our Roman holiday.
Day 1: Vatican City
Vegan Breakfast at Mama Shelter Roma
Our mornings at Mama Shelter Roma began with a satisfying vegan buffet breakfast. While there weren’t any specifically labelled vegan options, we managed to find a good variety to start our day. We enjoyed fresh tomatoes and sautéed mushrooms on homemade sourdough toast, accompanied by an assortment of jams, fresh fruits, and juices. Most days, we also had plant based milk with cereal and coffee. Although the buffet also included vegan options like beans, pulses, rice, and salads, these didn’t particularly appeal to us for breakfast. Nonetheless, the selection was satisfactory, though we felt that more effort could be made to provide specifically vegan options.
Morning: Castel Sant’Angelo
Starting our first full day in Rome, we visited Castel Sant’Angelo, an impressive fortress with a rich history. Tickets were easy to buy online just before or in person on the day. Originally built as a mausoleum for Emperor Hadrian, it later served as a papal residence, fortress, and prison.
Exploring the castle, we were fascinated by the blend of Roman, medieval, and Renaissance architecture, each layer telling its own story. The highlight of our visit was reaching the top of the castle, where we were rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of Rome. From this vantage point, we could see the majestic dome of St. Peter’s Basilica, the meandering Tiber River, and the bustling cityscape, all framed by the vibrant Roman sky. The experience was both awe-inspiring and peaceful, offering a unique perspective on the Eternal City.
Lunch: Pinsa ‘mpò – pinseria romana a roma prati vaticano
For lunch, we stumbled upon Pinsa ‘mpò – Pinseria Romana a Roma Prati Vaticano, where we were lucky enough to grab the last two vegan pizzas available and enjoy them at their outdoor tables. These pizzas were a delightful find, with a crispy yet airy crust characteristic of Roman pinsa, topped with fresh, flavourful ingredients. The taste was incredible, a perfect blend of rich tomato sauce, fresh vegetables, and herbs, making each bite a delight. To top it off, the pizzas were very reasonably priced, offering fantastic value for such high quality. It was a wonderful meal that left us both satisfied and eager to explore more of Rome’s vegan culinary offerings.
Afternoon: Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel
We dedicated our afternoon to the Vatican Museums, home to an incredible collection of art and historical artefacts. In recent years, visiting Rome’s premier tourist destinations like the Vatican Museums has become increasingly difficult. Tickets on the official websites are almost impossible to secure as they vanish immediately upon release. This issue isn’t just due to high tourist numbers or peak seasons, but largely stems from organised ticket scalping. Scalpers, suspected of using automated bots, snatch up tickets as soon as they are available—60 days in advance for the Vatican Museums and resell them at exorbitant prices. These companies have become notorious for exploiting tourists in this way. The situation has grown so severe that Italian authorities have launched investigations into these practices, aiming to curb the monopolisation of ticket sales and the transformation of Rome’s landmarks into overpriced tourist traps. We were lucky to book online a few weeks before and get a skip the line ticket with an afternoon time slot from Headout Bookings for €45 each, but those in the security queue behind us had paid a staggering €100. There is also the option to queue if you are on a tight budget, and buy in person on the day €25 but this line was very long and in direct heat and did not look like a lot of fun.
During our visit to the Vatican Museums, we were captivated by the vast collection of art and historical artefacts. One of the highlights was seeing Van Gogh’s Pietà, a touching and evocative piece that stands out amidst the museum’s extensive galleries. The highlight of visiting the Vatican museums has to be the Sistine Chapel. The Sistine Chapel was a breathtaking experience, with Michelangelo’s famous ceiling frescoes and The Last Judgment leaving us in awe of his artistic genius. As we concluded our tour, we descended the grand double-helix Bramante Staircase, a magnificent architectural feat that offered a fitting end to our exploration of the Vatican’s treasures and reminded us of the architecture on our visit to the Guggenheim in New York. This visit was a profound journey through art and history, deeply enriching our Roman adventure and we spent a good few hours here.
Evening: St. Peter’s Basilica and Ristorante Vegano Ma Va’?
After the Vatican Museums we headed to St. Peter’s Basilica, spend time admiring the stunning interior. Unfortunately there was more repair work including Michelangelo’s Pietà which was not visible at our visit – we will have to come back! St. Peter’s Basilica is free with fast flowing security lines, we waited about 15 minutes for entry. Just make sure to wear clothing that covers both your shoulders and below the knee as their is strict attire regulations.
Our meal at Ristorante Vegano Ma Va’? in Zona Prati Roma was phenomenal, offering a real family-run feel with an array of delicious vegan options. We started by sharing the Polpette di Melanzane e miso con hummus di piselli e menta – fried eggplant balls with pea and mint hummus – which were incredibly tasty. For our main courses, we decided to split two dishes: the Orecchiette in Carbonara e crema al tartufo – fresh pasta with smoked tofu, truffle, and pepper – and the Spaghetto quadrato al Pesto di Pistacchio – spaghetto pasta with pistachio cream. The Spaghetto pasta with pistachio cream was perhaps my favourite meal of the entire trip, an extraordinary dish and one of the best things I’ve ever eaten. However, our experience took a slight downturn with the desserts. The Torta di Mele con Caramello salato – apple pie with salted caramel – disappointingly had minimal apple, and the salted caramel was overwhelmingly salty. Similarly, the Torta di Carote con crema di Vaniglia – carrot cake with vanilla cream – was quite dry. While I highly recommend the savoury dishes at Ristorante Vegano Ma Va’?, as they are outstanding, I would suggest skipping the desserts.
Day 2: Ancient, Renaissance and Baroque Rome
Morning: Colosseum, Roman Forum and Palatine Hill
Begin your adventure at the iconic Colosseum early to avoid the crowds and take a guided tour to fully appreciate the history and architecture of this ancient amphitheatre. We purchased in advance from their site the Colosseum Full Experience Tickets for €24. To stop ticket scalpers you must remember your ID to enter with your ticket. We were awestruck by the sheer scale and historical significance of Rome’s most iconic ancient site, the Colosseum. Imagining the grand spectacles that once took place within the walls of this ancient amphitheatre.
From there, we moved to the Roman Forum, walking through the heart of ancient Rome where temples, basilicas, and public spaces once thrived. The ruins told tales of a bustling centre of political and social activity. Our final stop was Palatine Hill, the legendary birthplace of Rome. As we wandered through the remnants of imperial palaces and lush gardens, we enjoyed panoramic views of the city, offering a stunning perspective on both Rome’s ancient past and its modern beauty. This morning was a profound journey through history, bringing the ancient world vividly to life – and getting us very ready for more pizza and gelato!
Lunch: Pizzeria Boccaccia, Via Leonina, 73 and Gelateria dell’Angeletto
After a morning spent delving into the ancient wonders of the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill, we enjoyed a quick but delightful lunch at the hidden gem, Pizzeria Boccaccia on Via Leonina, 73. Tucked away from the main tourist routes, this cosy spot offered a range of delicious vegan pizza slices and a mouthwatering calzone. We tried two different vegan pizzas, each bursting with flavour, and the calzone, which was equally satisfying.
To satisfy our sweet tooth, we headed to the nearby Gelateria dell’Angeletto. This charming gelato shop is known for its vegan options, easily identified by the blue spoons. We sampled a variety of flavours, including the refreshing lemon and basil, creamy coconut, rich dark chocolate, and zesty lemon. Each flavour was a delightful treat, making for the perfect ending to our lunchtime adventure.
Afternoon: Galleria Borghese and Villa Borghese
Our visit to Galleria Borghese, set in the beautiful Villa Borghese gardens, was a blend of art, history, and romance. Despite the ongoing issue with ticket scalpers, we managed to secure skip-the-line tickets for €30 each from Tiqets, allowing us to bypass the long queues. Like much of Rome, the Galleria Borghese was also undergoing restoration, so only the first floor was open for viewing. Nevertheless, the art on display was incredible, featuring masterpieces by Bernini, Caravaggio, and Raphael that left us in awe.
After immersing ourselves in the gallery’s treasures, Jon surprised me with a walk to the picturesque boating lake in Villa Borghese. This lovely, off-the-beaten-track spot was a romantic delight, and who wouldn’t love a serene rowboat ride in Rome? It was the perfect way to unwind and enjoy the natural beauty of the gardens, adding a memorable touch to our visit.
Evening: Spanish Steps, Ristorante Origano and the Trevi Fountain
As the sun was setting we walked via the Terrazza Viale del Belvedere to the Spanish Steps, one of Rome’s most famous landmarks. The Trinità dei Monti church and views of the city aren’t to be missed!
Our evening meal at Origano Trevi was an absolute delight. We enjoyed a cozy atmosphere and a welcoming staff who made us feel right at home. For our main courses, we indulged in vegan carbonara spaghetti and vegan lasagna, both of which were flavorful and perfectly cooked. The creamy carbonara sauce and the hearty lasagna layers were impressive vegan takes on traditional Italian dishes. The highlight of our meal, however, was the dessert. We savored a vegan tiramisu and a vegan millefoglie, also known as the “thousand layers cake.” Both desserts were heavenly, but the millefoglie was particularly outstanding, with its delicate, flaky layers and rich filling. Origano Trevi is an ideal restaurant for mixed dining preferences, offering traditional, vegetarian, and vegan options, making it perfect for keeping non-vegan friends happy with a bit of meat. It was a fantastic dining experience that rounded off our day with delicious food and warm hospitality.
As the sun sets, make your way to the Trevi Fountain. Toss a coin into the fountain to ensure your return to Rome. We arrived at dusk and it soon became much busier, the fountain is beautifully illuminated at night, creating a magical atmosphere.
Evening walks along the Tiber are a perfect way to end a day in Rome, taking in the serene reflections of historic buildings and monuments shimmering in the water and the soft murmur of the city providing a peaceful contrast to the day’s bustling activities. These walks became a cherished routine, allowing us to soak in the timeless beauty of Rome under the night sky, making our Roman adventure even more unforgettable.
Day 3: Hidden Gems and Local Life
Morning: Panthanon, Marcellus Theater, the Mouth of Truth, the Keyhole of the Knights of Malta and Basilica of San Giovanni in Laterano
Our visit to the Pantheon was a remarkable journey into the heart of Rome’s ancient architectural brilliance. As we approached this magnificent structure, its imposing columns and grand portico immediately captured our attention. Once inside, we were awestruck by the sheer scale of the Pantheon’s dome, which remains the largest unreinforced concrete dome in the world. The oculus at the dome’s centre bathed the interior in natural light, creating an ethereal atmosphere. The Pantheon’s interior was equally impressive to the exterior, with its beautiful marble floors, ornate altars, and the tombs of significant historical figures, including the painter Raphael. The Pantheon allowed us to appreciate the enduring legacy of Roman ingenuity and artistry. It was one of the highlights of our trip, a testament to the city’s grandeur and its enduring allure. A little tip for the Panthenon is to arrive early as the queues are length later in the day, tickets are €5 and just to the right of the ticket machines you can ask to pay in cash and skip the queues completely!
Our exploration of Rome’s historic sites also led us to the fascinating Teatro di Marcello, or Marcellus Theater. Often referred to as a smaller precursor to the Colosseum, this ancient theatre is a testament to Rome’s architectural prowess and cultural vibrancy. Commissioned by Julius Caesar and completed by Augustus in 13 BC, the Teatro di Marcello once hosted a variety of performances and public events, accommodating up to 20,000 spectators. One of the most intriguing aspects of the Teatro di Marcello is its blend of ancient and modern use. The upper levels have been repurposed over the centuries, serving as medieval fortresses and later as residential apartments. This unique layering of history, with ancient stones supporting modern life, encapsulates the living history of Rome.
Visiting the Bocca della Verità, or the Mouth of Truth, was a must-do on our Roman itinerary, especially given my love for the classic film Roman Holiday. Situated in the portico of the Santa Maria in Cosmedin church, this ancient marble mask has long been shrouded in legend and intrigue. According to myth, the Mouth of Truth would bite off the hand of anyone who told a lie while placing their hand inside its gaping mouth. As fans of the film, we couldn’t resist the chance to recreate the iconic scene where Audrey Hepburn and Gregory Peck test their honesty. The line to see the Bocca della Verità was relatively short, and the anticipation built as we approached the famous face. A whimsical stop that gave us a deeper appreciation for the rich tapestry of stories and traditions that make Rome such an enchanting city and added a touch of Hollywood glamour to our exploration of the Eternal City.
Our journey through Rome wouldn’t have been complete without a leisurely walk in the Giardino degli Aranci park and a visit to the Buco della Serratura dell’Ordine di Malta, a hidden gem that we were fortunate to have all to ourselves. The walk through the park was a peaceful interlude, providing a refreshing escape from the city’s bustling streets. Surrounded by lush greenery and the serene ambiance of the gardens and musician, we enjoyed the tranquility and beauty of the Roman landscape. Arriving at the Buco della Serratura dell’Ordine di Malta, or the Keyhole of the Knights of Malta, we were thrilled to find that no one else was around. This allowed us to take our time and fully appreciate the unique experience. Peering through the keyhole, we were treated to a spectacularly framed view of St. Peter’s Basilica, perfectly aligned and nestled within the lush hedges of the garden. The precision of this view, capturing the grandeur of the basilica in such an intimate setting, was truly breathtaking. Having this moment to ourselves made it even more special, as we could savour the magic of the perfectly aligned vista without any distractions. It felt like a secret glimpse into the heart of Rome, a blend of history, architecture, and natural beauty all converging in one perfect scene.
Our exploration of Rome’s rich history and architecture continued with a visit to the Basilica of San Giovanni in Laterano, the oldest and highest-ranking of the four papal major basilicas. As the cathedral church of the Diocese of Rome, it holds a special place in the city’s religious and historical landscape.
Lunch: La Cuccuma and Gelateria Gatsby & Gelato San Lorenzo
For a quick lunch, we headed to La Cuccuma, a charming restaurant known for its authentic Italian cuisine. We were delighted to find a selection of vegan pizza slices, perfect for a speedy yet satisfying meal. The slices were freshly made and we opted for a mushroom slice and a bianco, both topped with vibrant, flavourful ingredients. The mushroom slice was loaded with earthy, sautéed mushrooms, providing a rich and hearty flavour. The bianco slice, a white pizza without tomato sauce, featured a delightful blend of garlic, olive oil, and fresh herbs, creating a deliciously creamy and aromatic experience. The casual and friendly atmosphere made it an ideal spot for a relaxed lunch, allowing us to recharge before continuing our Roman adventure.
After our delightful quick lunch at La Cuccuma, we ventured to Piazza Vittorio Emanuele II city park for a sweet treat at Gelateria Gatsby & Gelato San Lorenzo. This gelateria is renowned for its diverse and delicious vegan options, and we were excited to try as many flavours as we could. We indulged in six different vegan gelato flavours, each one more delightful than the last. The pistachio, smooth and nutty, offered a perfect balance of sweetness and richness and was my favourit. We also loved the refreshing pineapple and rosemary, raspberry and basil, apple and ginger, strawberry and lemon. Enjoying these delicious gelato flavours in the serene surroundings of Piazza Vittorio Emanuele II city park was a perfect way to unwind and savour the flavours of Rome.
Afternoon: Papal Basilica of Saint Mary Major and the Monument to Victor Emmanuel II
Our final day in Rome continued with a visit to the Papal Basilica of Saint Mary Major, one of the city’s four major basilicas and a significant landmark in the Christian world. Inside, the basilica is awe-inspiring. The grand nave, flanked by stunning marble columns and adorned with opulent gold mosaics, reflected the basilica’s rich history and artistic grandeur. We marveled at the breathtaking ceiling, said to be gilded with the first gold brought back from the New World. The basilica’s chapels, each with their own unique beauty and historical significance, added to the sense of reverence and wonder. Particularly striking was the Sistine Chapel of the Basilica (not to be confused with the Sistine Chapel in the Vatican), where the tomb of Pope Sixtus V lies. The intricate mosaics depicting biblical scenes and the stunning frescoes further showcased the artistic brilliance that defines this basilica. One of the most revered relics housed within the basilica is what is believed to be a piece of the manger in which the infant Jesus was laid in Bethlehem. This sacred artefact can be found located in the Crypt of the Nativity.
Finally we visited the Monument to Victor Emmanuel II, an impressive and grandiose structure that dominates the skyline of Piazza Venezia. Known locally as “Il Vittoriano,” this monument was built to honour Victor Emmanuel II, the first king of a unified Italy. As we approached, the sheer size and scale of the monument left us in awe, with its majestic white marble, towering columns, and elaborate sculptures. A poignant and significant feature of the monument is the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, located at the base of the structure. This tomb, guarded by an eternal flame and flanked by two soldiers, honours the unidentified soldiers killed or missing during war. Climbing the steps to the top, we were greeted by panoramic views of Rome, offering a breathtaking perspective of the city’s iconic landmarks.
As our Roman adventure came to an end, we made a final stop at Pizza Florida to grab some slices for the plane ride home. This popular spot, known for its affordability and extensive vegan options, was the perfect place to enjoy one last taste of Italy. The staff were incredibly accommodating, cutting all the slices in two so that we could each sample a variety of flavours. We selected a mix of delicious vegan slices, each one bursting with fresh ingredients and traditional Italian flavours. The quality and taste were exceptional, proving that great pizza doesn’t have to be expensive. Enjoying these slices on the plane was a perfect way to savour the flavours of Rome one last time, leaving us with delicious memories of our incredible trip to the Eternal City.
Evening: Buddy Veggy Restaurant Cafè
Our last evening in Rome was celebrated with a memorable meal at Buddy Veggy Restaurant Cafè which offers an entirely vegan menu. Following our server’s enthusiastic recommendation, we started with Mezza Manica alla Porcina Felice, a delightful dish featuring half-sleeve pasta with shiitake mushroom, sausage and thyme. The rich, earthy flavours of the mushrooms paired perfectly with the very realistic faux sausage, creating a comforting and satisfying meal. We also tried the Spaghetti con il Tartufo, a vegan spaghetti dish with truffle. This dish was a true highlight, with the truffle’s distinct, luxurious aroma elevating the simple yet delicious spaghetti.
For dessert, we indulged in the Tiramisù Oreo and the Cheesecake con Crema di Nocciola. The Tiramisù Oreo, made with Oreo cookies, coffee, mascarpone, and cream, was a delightful vegan twist on the classic dessert. Its rich, creamy layers and coffee-infused sweetness were absolutely divine. The Cheesecake con Crema di Nocciola, with its hazelnut cream and salted peanut butter crunchy base, was equally impressive. The vegan cheesecake was creamy and indulgent, perfectly balancing the sweet and salty flavours.
This meal at Buddy Veggy Restaurant Cafè was a fantastic way to conclude our Roman culinary journey, leaving us with fond memories of the city’s vibrant vegan food scene and the warm hospitality we experienced throughout our trip.
We concluded our unforgettable trip to Rome with a leisurely evening walk, taking in the city’s enchanting atmosphere one last time. Strolling past the vibrant street artists and the majestic Pantheon, we felt the rich history and lively culture of Rome all around us. As we made our way back along the river, we indulged in one final vegan gelato from Sublime, a delightful gelateria known for its creative flavours. This time, we tried the unusual vegan fig and papaya flavours, each offering a unique and refreshing taste that perfectly captured the essence of our Roman adventure.
Our evening culminated with a serene visit to St. Peter’s Basilica. Bathed in the soft glow of the evening light, the basilica looked truly magnificent. Soaking in the warm evening heat and the peaceful ambiance, reflecting on the incredible experiences and memories we had gathered over our three-day journey. It was the perfect farewell to the Eternal City, leaving us with a deep appreciation for its timeless beauty and a promise to return one day.
We can only recommend Jet2holidays for those looking at couples holidays, especially as they offer such frequent flights to Rome. Rome is a city that captivates and inspires. With its rich history, exquisite art, and vibrant culture, three days in Rome will leave you with unforgettable memories and a desire to return. A heartfelt thank you to Jet2 for making this unforgettable adventure possible. Their seamless travel experience allowed us to immerse ourselves fully in the wonders of the Eternal City.
