Rome offers countless different vacations in one city. The experience you’ll have depends entirely on the neighborhood you choose as your home. At Italian Stay Collection, we offer homes in the two most desirable—and distinct—Roman neighborhoods: the elegant, local hub of **Prati (near the Vatican)** and the ancient, magical **Centro Storico (near the Pantheon)**.
So, what does a “perfect day” look like in each? Here are two itineraries, tailor-made for our apartments.
Itinerary 1: The ‘Centro Storico’ (Pantheon & Navona) – A Day of Magic
- 8:00 AM: Sunrise at the Pantheon. Step out of your apartment into the quiet streets. Grab a “granita di caffè” from Tazza d’Oro and see the Pantheon before the crowds arrive.
- 10:00 AM: Market Day at Campo de’ Fiori. This is one of the oldest, most vibrant markets. Browse the colorful produce, buy spices, and soak in the atmosphere.
- 1:00 PM: An Authentic Lunch. Avoid the piazza traps. We’ll give you our ‘local tips’ for a tiny trattoria in a hidden alley, famous for its Carbonara.
- 4:00 PM: Art & Wonder. Get lost. Wander into the Church of San Luigi dei Francesi to see three breathtaking, original Caravaggio paintings for free.
- 7:00 PM: Aperitivo in a Hidden Courtyard. Enjoy a Spritz at the stunning Chiostro del Bramante, a peaceful Renaissance cloister hidden just steps from Piazza Navona.
- 9:00 PM: Dinner in the Jewish Ghetto. A short walk away, enjoy a life-changing Carciofo alla Giudia (Jewish-style fried artichoke) in this historic and atmospheric neighborhood.
Itinerary 2: ‘Prati’ (Vatican) – A Day of Elegance
- 8:00 AM: The Vatican Museums. By staying at Casa 901 or Gracchi 278, you are steps away. Arrive early, beat the massive lines, and see the Sistine Chapel in relative peace.
- 11:00 AM: Mercato Trionfale. After the museums, dive into real Rome. This is the city’s largest local food market. It’s loud, authentic, and perfect for grabbing fresh fruit and cheese.
- 1:00 PM: Gourmet Pizza Lunch. Head to Pizzarium, the world-famous (and nearby) spot for pizza al taglio (pizza by the slice) from master Gabriele Bonci.
- 4:00 PM: Shopping on Via Cola di Rienzo. This is where Romans *actually* shop. It’s a grand boulevard with high-end boutiques and department stores, minus the tourist crowds of Via del Corso.
- 7:00 PM: The Local’s Aperitivo. Join the stylish Roman crowd at Il Sorpasso, a beloved local wine bar, for an incredible platter of cured meats and cheeses.
- 9:00 PM: A Classic Roman Dinner. Prati is full of authentic neighborhood trattorias that tourists never find. Enjoy a perfect Cacio e Pepe and relax.
Which Rome will you choose? The historic magic of the Center, or the elegant life of Prati? Explore our apartments in both neighborhoods to find your perfect Roman home.
