Summer in Rome: Perfect Day in the Eternal City
By a Rome local for the past three years.
Three years ago, I came to Rome as a visitor. Today, I call it home. While I still love the iconic landmarks, what keeps me falling in love with this city are the little rituals that make everyday life here so special: morning espresso at my favorite café, an afternoon gelato, aperitivo in Trastevere, and ending the evening strolling along the Tiber River. If you're visiting Rome this summer, here's exactly how I'd spend the perfect day in the Eternal City.
Coffee & Pastry at Sant'Eustachio Il Caffè
After breakfast, make your way to the Colosseum. I know it's the obvious choice, but trust me—there's a reason it's on every Rome itinerary. The morning light creates the most beautiful backdrop for photos, and you'll beat both the crowds and the midday heat. Walk around the entire exterior before heading closer for those postcard-worthy views. Let's be honest, you're going to want those Instagram shots. And nowhere says "I'm in Rome" quite like the Colosseum.
By late morning, you'll be ready for something sweet. La Romana is hands down one of my favorite gelato shops in Rome. The gelato is rich, creamy, and made fresh daily. My personal favorite is pistachio, but honestly, you can't go wrong with any flavor. One of the best parts? Watching them line the cone with melted chocolate before scooping your gelato. It's a small detail that makes a big difference.
My Favorite Roman Restaurant Pizza Re'
One of our favorite meals in Trastevere was at PizzaRé 77, a cozy neighborhood pizzeria serving authentic Neapolitan-style pizza. Tucked along Viale di Trastevere, it offered a lively atmosphere with a mix of locals and visitors, giving it an energetic but welcoming feel.
The pizzas arrived with beautifully blistered, airy crusts and simple, high-quality toppings that let the ingredients shine. The dough was light, soft, and flavorful, while the fresh tomato sauce and creamy mozzarella created the kind of balance that makes authentic Neapolitan pizza so memorable. We also enjoyed a few traditional fried appetizers before our pizzas arrived, which made for the perfect start to the meal.
Spend the Afternoon Wandering
One of the biggest mistakes visitors make is trying to see everything. Some of my favorite memories in Rome happened when I put away the map and simply wandered. Explore side streets, stop in little boutiques, admire hidden piazzas, and soak in the atmosphere that makes Rome so special.
Aperitivo Hour in Trastevere
As the afternoon heat begins to fade, head across the river to Trastevere. This neighborhood is one of the most charming parts of Rome, filled with ivy-covered buildings, cobblestone streets, local boutiques, and lively piazzas. Find a cozy outdoor table and order the drink that practically defines a Roman summer:
Shop & Snack
One of the things I love most about Trastevere is how easy it is to spend hours wandering. Browse the small artisan shops and local boutiques tucked between restaurants and cafés. And when hunger strikes again, grab a Trapizzino. This beloved Roman street food combines pizza dough with traditional Italian fillings. It's quick, delicious, and uniquely Roman. The perfect snack while exploring.
As the sun sets, make your way toward the Tiber River. Summer evenings along the river are pure magic. You'll often find pop-up bars, food vendors, local musicians, and street performers creating a lively atmosphere that feels both festive and relaxed. Take a slow walk along the water, listen to the music drifting through the air, and enjoy one final glimpse of Rome illuminated at night. It's one of my favorite ways to end the day.
After three years of living here, I've learned that Rome isn't a city to conquer—it's a city to savor.
See the Colosseum. Toss your coin into the Trevi Fountain. Eat the gelato. Order the Aperol Spritz. But leave room for the unexpected moments too. The quiet alleyway filled with flowers. The street musician playing beneath an ancient church. The sunset that makes you stop walking and simply stare. That's the Rome you'll remember.
And if you're anything like me, you'll already be planning your return before you've even left. ✈️🇮🇹❤️
Here are a few tips for your trip to the Eternal City.
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