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Rome: In Context

Traveling to Rome "in Context" means embracing the soul of the city beyond its well-trodden paths. It's about diving into the heart of Rome, where every corner tells a story, every meal is a chapter in a long, flavorful history, and the true essence of the city is not just seen but felt.

At Context Travel, we guide you to the core of Rome, shining a light on hidden histories and local narratives, and connecting you with experiences that make the city eternally memorable. These recommendations are carefully curated by Context experts to bring you closer to the authentic spirit of Rome, celebrating its lesser-known treasures and profound cultural richness.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Bites of Rome

Rome Neighborhoods

Local Shops

Family Activities

Read, Watch & Listen 

Get the Google Map

Rome Experiences

Meet Your Context Guides

Giulia

Giulia Pagliari

ARCHAEOLOGIST

Born in Rome, Giulia fell in love with Archaeology when she was 12 years old on a school trip to Pompei. She received a Master’s Degree in the Archaeology of Ancient Near East at the University of Rome, La Sapienza, and afterward pursued a joint Ph.D. program in Egyptology with the University of Birmingham UK. She has participated in archaeological digs in Rome, Sicily, Jordan, and Egypt and she has worked on the publication of the results of the excavations. Giulia became a licensed Tour Guide in Rome because she loves to share her knowledge with visitors to Italy: whether it concerns archaeological sites, renaissance artworks, baroque churches or contemporary urban transformations, she is passionate about Rome! 

Priscilla

Priscilla Corti

ARCHAEOLOGIST

Priscilla is a native Roman, born and raised in the city and has always been passionate about art and history. She has a degree plus 3 years of post graduate study in Archaeology from the Università La Sapienza in Rome. As an archaeologist, her field of expertise is the study and the categorization of the pottery found on archaeological excavation sites. She has taken part in several archaeological excavations in Rome, mostly on the slopes of the Palatine Hill. In the early 2000’s she became a licensed tour guide and for more than 20 years has enjoyed sharing her interest and passion for this wonderful city with visitors.

Sarah May

Sarah May Grunwald

LOCAL GUIDE

Sarah May Grunwald is a wine, food, and travel writer from California. She graduated from San Diego State University with a BA in European Humanities. She has a sommelier certificate from AIS and is currrently a WSET Diploma candidate. Sarah was a professor at the Istituto Lorenzo de’ Medici where she taught the course “Wines of Italy." You can find her writing in various publications including Fodor's, USA Today, Guild Somm, Wine Sofa, Culture Trip, Time Out, Romeing, The Drop, The Feiring Line, as well as in print magazines. She currently lives in the Castelli Romani, the countryside south of Rome, with her many rescue dogs and cats. She produces olive oil, keeps bees, and practices permaculture on her land.

Bites of Rome

Discover the mouthwatering dishes of the city and the best places to savor them

Vanda

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This modern osteria thrives on its authentic, traditional cuisine, offering classic Roman dishes from appetizers to desserts.

 

"Vanda is tiny, cozy, and surrounded by wine. The food is served on handmade ceramic plates, like dining at grandma’s. They suggest pairings and change the menu daily based on fresh ingredients."

 

 
Giulia, Archaeologist

Trattoria Valentino

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A true trattoria in the heart of Rome, offering traditional Italian dishes & wines in an old-fashioned, bustling setting.


"They serve brisket tabs and fresh vegetables like artichokes with beans—true Roman food, always fresh. The owner even makes space for you when it’s full. It’s warm, local, and authentic."
 
Giulia, Archaeologist

Casa Prati

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Located in the Prati area of Rome, this restaurant offers authentic Roman cuisine prepared fresh daily,.

"Casa Prati is elegant yet cozy. I love the meatballs—they make them like at home, and their carbonara is the best. It’s a family with restaurant DNA, and it shows in the food."
 
Giulia, Archaeologist

Pizzeria la Montecarlo

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A straightforward restaurant famous for its classic, thin and crispy Roman pizzas.

"My pizza of choice. Super basic, no reservations. Paper tablecloths, communal cutlery. They serve deep-fried starters and then pizza. Cheap, delicious, and classic."
 
Priscilla, Archaeologist

Romeow Cat Bistro

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Bohemian cafe with playful decor & a vegan menu of cakes & smoothies, plus a brood of roaming cats.

"The cats here are permanent residents. And the lady who owns the restaurant opened it to introduce people to vegan food. It's very elevated cuisine. She doesn't use fake meats, it's all natural. They have good breakfast; I like to order the pancakes. Her menu changes for dinner, and it's all seasonal ingredients."
 
Sarah May, Local Guide

Proloco Trastevere

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Proloco Trastevere is a place where local artisans create dishes that blend tradition and innovation, offering authentic flavors that change with the seasons.

"This restaurant is a true celebration of the flavors of Lazio. I love how they use locally sourced ingredients to create traditional Roman dishes with a modern twist. The atmosphere is perfect for sharing a meal with friends or family, and their pasta and seasonal specials are absolute standouts. "
 
Sarah May, Local Guide

Cesare al Casaletto

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Roman antipasti, pasta, meat & fish, plus local wines, at an airy venue with a vine-covered patio.

"It’s a gem in Monteverde, easily accessible from the city center via Tram 8. The cacio e pepe, crispy gnocchi fritti, and spring vignarola pasta are amazing. It's a space that feels like home, with a deep Italian wine list."
 
Sarah May, Local Guide

Favorite Rome Neighborhoods

Neighborhoods to explore when looking for an authentic slice of Roman life

Campo Marzio

This charming area is perfect for sightseeing, with top attractions like the Spanish Steps, Pantheon, and Trevi Fountain just a short stroll away.

"Campo Marzio is the place we as locals go for shopping, walking in the beauty, or just having a snack. It represents every phase of Rome—ancient, Renaissance, Baroque. If I have three hours to spend in Rome, that is where I would go."

Giulia, Archaeologist

Testaccio

Testaccio, an ancient Roman port and former working class neighborhood. Here, you'll find an incredible culinary scene.

"Testaccio is a neighborhood where you see locals living like they have for generations. There’s an incredible market and street food, kids playing, and views from the Aventine Hill. It’s close to the center but still feels authentic."

Giulia, Archaeologist

Monti

Monti is a vibrant city center neighborhood blending bohemian and classical styles, featuring archaeological sites, family-run eateries, trendy bars, and vintage shops that attract a diverse crowd.

"Trattoria Valentino is a great place near the Colosseum—great food and not too touristy. Monti is full of little streets, traditional food, vintage shops, and pedestrian lanes that still feel local."

Giulia, Archaeologist

Coppedè

Quartiere Coppedè in Rome is a unique area showcasing 20th-century Italian expressionist architecture, located at the intersection of Via Arno and Via Tagliamento.

"Coppedè is a hidden gem—early 1900s architecture full of gargoyles, symbols, animals, and mosaics. It’s whimsical and beautiful. Locals know it, but it’s still quiet and surprising for visitors."

Priscilla, Archaeologist

EUR

EUR is known for its impressive Fascist-era architecture, museums, and the Palazzo dello Sport which offers views of Lake Central Park's fountains.

"EUR is huge, rationalist architecture from the 1930s, built for Mussolini’s Universal Exhibition. It’s beautiful, strange, and full of massive modernist buildings. You feel like you’re in another city."

Priscilla, Archaeologist

San Giovanni

The San Giovanni neighborhood, whose official name is Appio Latino, allows you to take pleasant walks in the nature and in its history filled surroundings.

"San Giovanni mixes the historic Basilica with vintage shops, craft beer bars, and natural wine. It’s hip but still Roman. It’s great for aperitivo after visiting the Colosseum."

Sarah May, Local Guide

Trastevere

Trastevere is a vibrant, bohemian neighborhood with a rich history, famous for its mix of traditional and modern eateries, craft beer pubs, artisan shops, and affordable accommodations.

"Trastevere is my favorite. The cobblestones, the basilica, the piazzas, and the nightlife—it’s like Rome’s soul in one place. Start at the Botanical Garden, end with aperitivo in the square."

Sarah May, Local Guide

Garbatella

Garbatella has grown into one of Rome's culture centers, with art, architecture, gastronomy, and performances waiting to be uncovered.

"Garbatella feels like a Roman village. There’s community housing from the 1900s with central gardens. It’s quiet, charming, and real—not yet touristy. Easy to reach but totally different vibe."

Sarah May, Local Guide

Unique Local Shops 

Explore distinctive local shops that offer authentic crafts, products, and histories

Raggi

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For over 40 years, Gioielleria Raggi Roma has been the go-to place in the city for Italian jewelry.

"Raggi is an institution in Rome. They reinterpret historical or Italian style. You have all the jewels you’ve seen in fashion catwalks accessible for people, affordable for people. If you want something Italian that’s a ring or place that represents jewelry tradition in Rome, that’s the best place."
 
Giulia, Archaeologist

Guja

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 Stop in for high-quality men's and women's shoes.

"They produce shoes close to Florentine Prato—full of leather factories. You have every model that you might find in big brands like Gucci, Valentino, or Prada, but in an affordable way. I mean, you just have to have a pair of those shoes in your wardrobe!"

 
Giulia, Archaeologist

Castroni

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Discover the finest Italian products from Rome and beyond, including tea, coffee, sweets, wines, liquors, and ethnic foods.

"When I have to go meet a boyfriend’s mom for the first date or when I visit my family in Sicily, I take something made in Rome from Castroni. You can find every type of pasta, spices, chocolate, and regional specialties, like Colomba or Panettone, here. It’s an institution."

 
Giulia, Archaeologist

Libreria Spazio Sette

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Situated in a historic building in the heart of the capital, it offers a diverse selection of fiction, non-fiction, comics, manga, children's books, and novels.

"It’s a bookstore that is beautiful—inside a 1600s building right off from Largo Argentina, with beautiful high ceilings. You browse and maybe end up in a book presentation. They have books in every language, including English."

 
Priscilla, Archaeologist

Co.Ro. Jewels

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Visit this small studio and shop to find jewelry crafted to transform architectural beauty into wearable art. 

"Co.Ro. is two women—architects—who design Rome-inspired jewelry. You’ll find aqueduct bracelets, Pantheon earrings, and more. It’s silver or gold-plated, never too expensive, and really well designed. I often wear their earrings."

 
Priscilla, Archaeologist

Biscottificio Innocenti

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Enjoy homemade panettone, cookies, tarts, and pastries at this cherished, family-run patisserie.

"You go in and see the lab next door where they’re making biscotti. That’s what you expect to find in Italy and you don’t anymore, especially not in the center. Everything is good—just pick anything."

 
Priscilla, Archaeologist

Fleur Garden

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Discover stylish furnishings for your indoor and outdoor plants to enhance your space with the latest green decor trends.

"It feels more like a botanical garden than a shop. When I first discovered it, I thought 'Am I in somebody's home?' They have an entire section for bonsai collections. I’m just obsessed with it. Even if you can’t bring anything home because of customs, it’s great for inspiration, or to just relax outside of the hustle of the city."

 
Sarah May, Local Guide

Mercato Vintage Ecosolidale

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The Ecosolidale Market is more than a second-hand shop; it's a hub for environmental respect, solidarity, and change. The proceeds support the activities and projects of the Community of Sant'Egidio in Rome.

"The collection of vintage clothing, accessories, and shoes is one of the best I’ve encountered. Every purchase supports Sant’Egidio charities, which makes shopping here feel rewarding. I love the unique furniture and collectibles too."

 
Sarah May, Local Guide

Otherwise Bookshop

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Visit this charming English-language bookshop in Rom that offers a fantastic range of contemporary fiction and second-hand books.

"This independent English-language bookshop near Piazza Navona is a treasure. It has books by local authors, cookbooks, and even translated Italian works. I often pick up a book and then head to my favorite wine bar nearby."

 
Sarah May, Local Guide

Family Friendly Activities

The parks, museums, and kid-friendly places our experts recommend to keep young travelers engaged

Castel Sant'Angelo

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Castel Sant'Angelo, originally built as a mausoleum for Emperor Hadrian, later served as a fortress and castle for the popes. It is now a museum in Rome, Italy.

"It's very easy to lose your sense of direction and kids adore getting lost in tunnels and passageways, it feels sort of like a secret. It was first a tomb that was converted into a fortress. Kids can explore in the towers and see the canons, and you can easily picture how the property was used as a fortress. If there's no one around, it's almost scary in a good way. "
 
Giulia, Archaeologist

Ostia Antica

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Ostia Antica, just a 45-minute train ride from Rome, offers ancient wonders comparable to Pompeii and is a great way to spend time outside of the city.

"Ostia Antica is like the little Pompeii of Rome. Everything is intact — it's easy to imagine an ancient Roman city, from houses of different social classes to the daily life of its citizens. You can sit on the benches of an ancient Roman theater, explore side streets, see ancient laundries and toilets — it’s the best way to let kids imagine what life was like. And you can go at your own pace, so it's great for families with kids of any age. Have a picnic, let the kids run around, many times it can feel like you have the place to yourself."
 
Giulia, Archaeologist

Villa Borghese

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Villa Borghese is a beautiful, historic park in central Rome, featuring the renowned Galleria Borghese museum and other attractions like the Museo Nazionale Etrusco and the Galleria Nazionale d'Arte Moderna.

"Bike or risciò (rickshaw) through Villa Borghese, Rome’s biggest city park. It feels like you're outside the city and it’s perfect for kids to run, ride, and relax."
 
Giulia, Archaeologist

Gianicolo Cannon

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Every day, a cannon blank round is fired from the Janiculum at noon, a rite born on 1 December 1847. Go for the tradition and stay to explore the Janiculum, one of the best locations in Rome for a scenic view of the city's domes and bell towers.

"You can hear the cannon shoot every day at 12:00 PM. You have to go to the terrace of the Janiculum Hill a little earlier — around 11:30 AM they open the doors, bring out the cannon, and get it ready. It’s a big bang! It started because before we had synchronized clocks, people needed a signal to know it was noon, so churches could ring the bells and workers could go home for lunch. I didn't even know this until recently — but until about 70 years ago, everyone went home from factories, shops, and offices for lunch. It’s so cool."
 
Priscilla, Archaeologist

St. Peter's Dome

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Climbing to the top of St. Peter's Basilica in Rome rewards you with stunning views of Vatican City and beyond, but be prepared for a challenging ascent of 551 steps.

"Climbing St. Peter’s is a challenge kids enjoy. The view is epic, and it’s a great memory—plus you see the dome from the inside and out."
 
Priscilla, Archaeologist

Lido di Ostia

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Lido di Ostia, on the outskirts of the Italian capital, is one of the seaside resorts most easily accessible from the city centre, by car or train

"If you're going to Ostia Antica, why not make it a full-day thing? Or if you're just looking for a break outside of the city, it's only a 30 minute trip from Rome. You don't even have to bring much with you, since you can rent chairs and umbrellas there. And there are plenty of restaurants to grab a bite, everything from seafood to pasta to pizza. It's perfect for families looking to enjoy a day of sun, sand, and relaxation away from the bustling tourist sites."
 
Sarah May, Local Guide

Capuchin Crypt

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The Capuchin Crypt, located under the church of Santa Maria della Concezione dei Cappuccini in Rome, holds the remains of 3,700 Capuchin friars.

"There’s this one sign in the crypt that says, ‘What you are now, I once was. What I am now, you will be.’ It might be a little macabre for younger kids, but teenagers think it’s really cool. The whole place is underground, full of art made with bones, and most of the bodies used were plague victims. It’s creepy in a way that really captures their attention — and they can’t even use their phones inside because it’s against the rules. So they have to actually be engaged, which is rare these days!"
 
Sarah May, Local Guide

Read, Watch, Listen

Book, show, movie, and music recommendations from our experts to enrich your travel experience

READ

SPQR, History of Ancient Rome

Author: Mary Beard

"She brings ancient Rome to life. SPQR is smart and accessible—perfect for travelers who want depth without dryness.

Giulia, Archaeologist

Buy Online at Bookshop.org ⟶

 

Secrets of Rome

Author: Corrado Augias

 "I received it as a gift when I was just starting university, and it opens you up to the secret places of Rome. The way the book works is incredible: it connects the dots between spaces and times. It sends you down side streets, makes you notice things you might only see from a specific corner, and moves you between different eras of Rome — sometimes just by crossing the street. The author was also a professor who organized history conferences in Rome, and it was always hard to find tickets because they sold out so fast. I'm so happy they finally translated the book into English — for a long time, it wasn’t available. The book makes Rome feel like a living, connected story."

Giulia, Archaeologist

Buy Online at Half Price Books ⟶

 

Lavinia

Author: Ursula K. Le Guin

"Lavinia is barely even mentioned in the Aeneid—just a line or two—and yet Ursula K. Le Guin creates this whole beautiful story around her. She draws on anthropology, archaeology, and her deep love of Latin poetry to bring pre-Roman Italy to life. You get this real sense of the world before Rome: the Latins, the Etruscans, even little details, like what people were eating. It's so interesting how she could weave this really fun, fictional novel based on just archeology and anthropology. It's fascinating."

Sarah May, Local Guide

Buy Online at Bookshop.org ⟶

 

Ancient Rome: Infographics

Author: John Scheid and Nicolas Guillerat

"This is perfect for anyone who is a fan of ancient Rome, or for people who maybe don't like to read so much but are visual learners. You can see how Rome's social, political, and cultural environments changed and adapted over time. It's a great primer before visiting."

Priscilla, Archaeologist

Buy Online at Bookshop.org ⟶

 

WATCH

Those About to Die

"Among all the TV series about ancient Rome, this one really stands out—Anthony Hopkins is in it, and the scenes around the Colosseum are especially well done. Sure, there are some historical mix-ups—like monuments from different time periods appearing together—but the way they show the Colosseum as a work in progress is fascinating. You see how public attention shifted from the Circus Maximus to this massive new arena, and there’s so much detail: street life, bath culture, the colors of the houses, even how slaves could gain freedom by running businesses well.

They even show naval battles and crocodiles in the arena—something we can’t confirm, but isn’t totally implausible either. If they could drag obelisks from Egypt, they could bring crocodiles too. It’s definitely not for kids, but as a visual introduction to ancient Roman life, it’s one of the most accurate and immersive out there."

Giulia, Archaeologist

Watch on Peacock ⟶

 

Roman Holiday

"This is such a quintessential Rome film—elegant, funny, and full of heart starring Audrey Hepburn and Gregory Peck. Beyond the delightful story, it’s also a love letter to Rome, showcasing landmarks like the Mouth of Truth, the Pantheon, Trevi Fountain, and the Colosseum. A timeless classic that beautifully captures the spirit of the city."

Priscilla, Archaeologist

Watch on Paramount ⟶

 

The Great Beauty

"Following Jep Gambardella, an aging writer navigating the city's vibrant social scene, this film weaves together themes of art, love, and existential reflection. It’s a captivating exploration of Rome's iconic landmarks and hidden alcoves, making it a must-watch for anyone wanting to appreciate the splendor of the Eternal City. "

Sarah May, Local Guide

Watch on MAX ⟶

 

LISTEN

The History of Rome 

"This weekly podcast ran from 2007 to 2012, tracing the rise, decline and fall of the Roman Empire. It's led by Mike Duncan, who's also an author. It's very easy and enjoyable to listen to, and the episodes are short so you can listen on the way to work or when you have a few minutes in your day."

Giulia, Archaeologist

Listen on Spotify⟶      Listen on Apple ⟶

 

"Roma Capoccia"

"The breakout song of Venditti, it was originally composed in 1964, when he was only 14 years old. It's a tribute to Venditti's hometown Rome, and the lyrics cover scenes of everyday life while also celebrating Rome's imposing monuments."

Priscilla, Archaeologist

Listen on Spotify⟶      Listen on Apple Music ⟶

 

"I’ll Drink to That!
Lazio Wines with Sommlier Sarah May Grunwald"

"In my interview with renowned archaeologist Darius Arya, we explored the rich history of Lazio's wine. We shared fascinating details about the Romans' connection to wine and the archaeological findings revealing the long-standing viticulture in the area, which still influences modern winemaking. My wine expertise is in the wines of Lazio, and so it was a great honor to share this passion with an archeologist."

Sarah May, Local Guide

Listen on Darius Arya Digs ⟶      Listen on Apple ⟶

 

Get the map

Download our curated map featuring all these recommendations to guide your journey through the city

Rome Experiences

What People Are Saying

"What an amazing place! Sergio brought The Valley of the Temples to life for us. He was engaging and fun to learn from for our entire group (adults and teens). I can’t imagine seeing this site without Sergio to focus us! We all highly recommend Sergio and Context!"

Corrina
Agrigento Archaeology Tour with Valley of the Temples

"My family took a tour with Cetty the very first morning of our vacation in Palermo - an ideal way to set the stage for the days to come. She helped us to notice architecturally how converging cultures contributed robustly to this beautiful city, and adeptly put into context Palermo in its early days, as well as for how it continues to thrive today. Cetty connected with each member of our group of eight and really brought the city to brilliant life. This early experience with her set up our time in Palermo beautifully, and I would highly recommend this tour."

Heather
Introduction to Palermo Tour

"Annalisa was superb. Context is the magical word as she placed everything we saw in an appropriate context with respect to pitching the history, cultural importance and beauty of each stop. She was a brilliant guide and I would not hesitate to recommend her to anyone seeking a thorough appreciation of the rich culture and beauty of Syracuse and environs. 10 stars!"

David
Introduction to Syracuse Tour with the Neapolis and Duomo