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Rome Travel Guide: Top Attractions, Food & Local Tips

4 hours ago

5 min read

If you're looking for an authentic Rome travel guide, you're in the right place. Just a 3-hour flight from Istanbul, Rome is a city where ancient history, mouthwatering street food, and vibrant piazzas coexist seamlessly. In this guide, you’ll find practical information on how to get there, where to stay, top attractions, local culinary highlights, and a tailored 3-day itinerary.

Having visited Rome countless times—and even choosing it as the place to learn Italian—I have a deeply personal bond with this extraordinary city. Preparing this guide for you was a absolute joy!

Quick Facts About Rome

Country	Italy
Currency	Euro (€)
Language	Italian (English is widely spoken in tourist areas)
Visa	Schengen Visa required for non-EU passport holders (e.g., Turkish citizens)
Time Zone	CET (UTC+1) / CEST (UTC+2)
Flight Time (from Istanbul)	Flight Time (from Istanbul)
Recommended Stay	3–4 Days
Best Time to Visit	April–June & September–October
Airports	Leonardo da Vinci–Fiumicino (FCO) & Ciampino (CIA)

Best Time to Visit Rome

The optimal times to explore Rome are spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October). The weather is comfortable for walking, daylight hours are long, and the city avoids the peak summer crowds. July and August can be excessively hot for outdoor sightseeing, while winter (January–February) offers lower hotel rates and airfares, though occasional rain might disrupt outdoor plans.

Getting to Rome: Flights & Transfers

Direct flights operate regularly from Istanbul to Rome, taking approximately 3 hours. Booking early and maintaining flexible dates help secure the best fares; mid-week flights are often cheaper than weekend travel.

Airport Transfers

Fiumicino Airport (FCO): The primary international hub. The most efficient transfer is the Leonardo Express train, taking roughly 30–35 minutes directly to Termini Station.
Ciampino Airport (CIA): Serves mainly budget airlines. Dedicated shuttle buses link CIA directly to the city center.
Private Transfers: Recommended for night arrivals or heavy luggage.

Organize your airport transfer in advance...

👉 Book your Rome airport transfer with Omio!

Where to Stay in Rome: Top Neighborhoods

Selecting the right area is key to a seamless trip:

Centro Storico (Historic Center):

Centro Storico (Historic Center): Surrounding the Pantheon, Piazza Navona, and Campo de' Fiori. Highly walkable to top sights, though prices and tourist density are higher.
Monti: Located within walking distance of the Colosseum. Known for boutique shops, cozy cafes, and an authentic local charm—my top choice for travelers with similar tastes to mine.
Trastevere: Situated across the Tiber River, featuring cobblestone alleys and vibrant nightlife. Excellent for dining and convenient for early Vatican visits.
Prati & Vatican City: Quiet, structured, and ideal if you plan early morning visits to the Vatican Museums.
Termini Station: Highly practical for transit options and budget accommodations. Exercise caution at night and check hotel reviews carefully.

Local Tax Note: Rome imposes a city tourist tax (tassa di soggiorno) collected directly by hotels in cash or card upon arrival.

Monti: Located within walking distance of the Colosseum. Known for boutique shops, cozy cafes, and an authentic local charm—my top choice for travelers with similar tastes to mine.
Trastevere: Situated across the Tiber River, featuring cobblestone alleys and vibrant nightlife. Excellent for dining and convenient for early Vatican visits.
Prati & Vatican City: Quiet, structured, and ideal if you plan early morning visits to the Vatican Museums.
Termini Station: Highly practical for transit options and budget accommodations. Exercise caution at night and check hotel reviews carefully.

Local Tax Note: Rome imposes a city tourist tax (tassa di soggiorno) collected directly by hotels in cash or card upon arrival.

Roma otel fiyatlarını karşılaştır

Getting Around the City

Walking is the best way to explore central Rome. For longer distances, use the Rome Metro (Lines A, B, and C), public buses, or trams. Since the metro network avoids many historical sites due to underground archaeology, buses and walking remain primary modes of transport. Consider calculating whether city passes like the Roma Pass offer genuine savings based on your planned museum entries.

Top 10 Must-See Attractions

1. The Colosseum, Roman Forum & Palatine Hill

The iconic symbol of Rome and the ancient world’s largest amphitheater. Standard tickets cover all three sites—reserve at least half a day to explore them fully. Advance booking is essential to bypass long ticketing queues.

Book your tickets in advance

👉 GetYourGuide Colosseum, Roman Forum & Palatine Hill Ticket / Guided Tour

2. Vatican Museums & The Sistine Chapel

Famous for Michelangelo’s breathtaking ceiling frescoes. Book early morning or priority tickets to avoid heavy crowds. Dress code strictly enforced: shoulders and knees must be covered.

3. St. Peter’s Basilica & Square

One of the world’s largest churches. Entry is free, though security lines can be long. Purchasing a dome climb ticket offers magnificent panoramic views over the city.

4. The Pantheon

A 2,000-year-old architectural masterpiece boasting a famous open dome (oculus). It remains both an active place of worship and a top historical site.

5. Trevi Fountain

Rome’s legendary fountain. Visit early morning or late at night for a serene experience. Toss a coin over your left shoulder with your right hand to ensure your return to Rome.

6. Piazza Navona

A stunning Baroque square built on the site of an ancient stadium, featuring Bernini’s Fountain of the Four Rivers. Perfect for evening strolls—though dining on the square itself carries tourist-trap pricing.

7. Spanish Steps

One of Rome’s most photographed spots. Note: Sitting on the steps is strictly prohibited and subject to fines. Visit at sunset for sweeping views.

8. Villa Borghese & Borghese Gallery

A tranquil park providing a quiet escape from the urban energy. The Borghese Gallery inside requires advance timed reservations to view masterpieces by Bernini and Caravaggio.

9. Trastevere

The quintessential neighborhood to get lost in during the afternoon and enjoy traditional trattorias in the evening.

10. Aventine Hill & The Keyhole

Visit the Orange Garden (Giardino degli Aranci) for a quiet sunset view. Nearby, peek through the Knights of Malta keyhole for a framed view of St. Peter’s dome.

Don't just read about Rome—experience it!

I share my photos, itinerary notes, and short videos from Rome on Instagram.

If you’d like to follow along:

Instagram: @onurollstyle

What to Eat in Rome

Roman cuisine highlights simple, high-quality ingredients. Master the four classic pasta dishes:

Carbonara (Pecorino Romano, egg yolk, guanciale, black pepper)
Cacio e Pepe (Pecorino Romano and black pepper)
Amatriciana (Guanciale, tomato sauce, Pecorino Romano)
Gricia (Guanciale and Pecorino Romano—the precursor to Amatriciana)

Complement your meals with Pizza al Taglio (slice pizza), Supplì (fried rice balls with mozzarella), seasonal artichokes (Carciofi), artisanal gelato, and traditional tiramisu.

Dining Rules & Tips

Coperto: A small per-person cover charge written on the bill is standard practice.
Avoid Tourist Traps: Steer clear of restaurants directly on major tourist squares with photo menus. Walk one or two streets back for authentic dining.
Coffee Culture: Drinking espresso standing at the bar counter is standard and cheaper; sitting at a table incurs higher service fees.
Tap Water: Public water fountains (nasoni) supply fresh, clean drinking water free of charge.

3-Day Rome Travel Itinerary

Day 1: Ancient Rome

Morning: Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill
Lunch: Regional dining in the Monti district
Afternoon: Capitoline Hill for panoramic vistas
Evening: Traditional dinner in Trastevere

Day 2: Vatican City & Baroque Highlights

Morning: Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel, and St. Peter’s Basilica
Afternoon: Castel Sant’Angelo and Piazza Navona
Evening: Pantheon and the illuminated Trevi Fountain

Day 3: Parks, Art & Sunset Vistas

Morning: Spanish Steps and Villa Borghese gardens
Afternoon: Borghese Gallery (pre-booked ticket required)
Evening: Sunset at the Aventine Hill Orange Garden

Day Trips From Rome

Tivoli: Explore Villa d'Este’s fountains and Hadrian's Villa (Villa Adriana).
Ostia Antica: An exceptionally preserved ancient Roman port town reachable by local train.
Naples & Pompeii: Easily accessible via high-speed train for a day trip.

Practical Travel Tips & Precautions

Pickpocketing Awareness: Keep belongings secure in high-density areas such as Termini Station, Metro Line A, the Colosseum, and Trevi Fountain.
Street Solicitations: Decline offers for photos with street performers dressed as gladiators or unsolicited gifts (like wristbands) to avoid pressure for payment.
Religious Dress Code: Ensure shoulders and knees are covered when entering places of worship.
Footwear: Wear sturdy walking shoes suitable for uneven cobble streets (sanpietrini).

watch my youtube video!

How Iznik Tiles Inspire My Hand-Drawn Flowers: A Story of Tulips, Carnations and Pomegranates

onur erol

4 days ago

3 min read

Looking at an Iznik vase means looking at more than a vase. You are looking at the visual language of Ottoman tile art, woven from colour, flowers and patience. Tulips, carnations, pomegranates and hyacinths are vivid motifs that repeat for centuries across tiles, textiles and ceramics. When I begin a drawing, I think about the rhythm of this tradition: I build the vase, balance the direction of each flower one by one, and layer the colours the way they appear on a glazed tile surface. Every piece is drawn by hand. My aim is not to copy a historical motif, but to carry the feeling of Ottoman tile art into modern wall art.

Long before the tulip became a symbol of the Netherlands, it was treasured in the Ottoman world. Tulips, carnations, roses and pomegranates bloom across Turkish textiles, tiles and ceramics. In my hand-drawn vase illustrations, I keep coming back to these flowers.

What makes Iznik vases special?In Iznik ceramics, a white ground, cobalt blue, turquoise, green and a strong red work together. The flowers are never just decoration: they set the rhythm of the composition, give the vase movement and guide the eye from one motif to the next. The next time you see Iznik tiles in a museum or a historic building, start with the colour balance, then follow the direction of the tulips, carnations and leaves.

Reading the motifs: tulip, carnation and pomegranate

Tulip: the favourite of the Ottoman court; the early 18th century is remembered as the "Tulip Era."
Carnation: one of the most frequent motifs in Iznik and textile patterns.
Pomegranate: a symbol of abundance and plenty.
Rose and hyacinth: essential parts of the classical floral repertoire.

Bring an Iznik touch into your homeThese drawings don't copy historical motifs; they start from the ideas of colour and balance behind them. That way, the classic Iznik spirit can find a place in a contemporary home without feeling heavy. The posters below will help you see the individual character of each flower on this small art journey.

El çizimi şakayık mavi beyaz İznik vazosu tablosu

The blue-and-white peony poster carries Iznik's cool tones into a bolder wall statement. It's a great place to start if you want a strong focal point beside a bookshelf, on a dark wall or above a patterned kilim.

See the blue-and-white peony poster on Etsy.

The pomegranate motif is associated with abundance and plenty. A pomegranate poster in the kitchen, dining area or a small coffee corner can make an everyday space feel more personal and warm.

View and buy on Etsy.

El çizimi karanfil Osmanlı vazosu tablosu

The steady rhythm of the carnation creates a calmer, more balanced look. The Ottoman vase carnation poster is an elegant middle ground for anyone who loves classical motifs but wants a modern framing language at home.

The tulip is one of the most recognisable motifs in this visual language. Combine options like the Pink Tulip, the Tulip Vase and the two-piece set to build a single gallery wall, or browse the full hand-drawn Iznik flowers collection to see more colours.

View and buy on Etsy.

Decorating ideas with Iznik flowers

These prints pair well with coloured surfaces: on a deep blue, terracotta or sage green wall they look more dramatic, while on a white wall they feel airier. You can create a gentle layered look with a patterned kilim, a ceramic vase or linen-textured textiles. In a calmer interior, a single poster in a thin wooden or gold frame brings just enough warmth.

May the colours and rhythm of Iznik flowers inspire you to create your own little art corner at home. With love from Istanbul, Onur

The best places in Athens: My hidden favorites in Plaka and Psirri

onur erol

4 days ago

6 min read

Updated: 4 hours ago

Athens Food, Bar and Nightlife Guide 2026 | onurollstyle

For me, Athens is more than just a tourist city. Every time I sail the Aegean Sea, passing by the Greek islands, Athens becomes a unique attraction. And every time I arrive in the city, I do the same thing: I get lost in the narrow stone streets of Plaka, I breathe in the bohemian energy of Psirri and I enter places I have known for years, thinking: “Am I here again?”

In this Athens food and nightlife guide, I tell you about my 19 favorite places. Some are classics, some are hidden gems – all of which I’ve tried myself.

For those looking for restaurants in Plaka, for those looking for a bar in Psirri, for those who want a rooftop terrace with a view of the Acropolis – the list is complete.

📍 The event venues are concentrated around Plaka, Psirri and Monastiraki. It is an area that can be explored on foot.

The most affordable hotel / Best hotel deals

PART 1: PLAKA – FOOD AND DRINK IN THE HEART OF HISTORY

1. Lyra – The modern classic of Plaka

Housed in a neoclassical building, right in the heart of Plaka, Lyra offers traditional Greek cuisine with a modern twist. Quality food is available at any time, from brunch to dinner. Sit on the steps, enjoying the view while sipping wine at the bar - it's worth a visit just for that moment.

📍 12 Lisiou Street, Plaka, Athens 10556

2. Rooster Cafe – Agia Irini Square

From morning coffee to evening cocktails, the Rooster's vibe never slows down. Located behind the old cathedral, in the best spot on the square, locals and travelers alike meet here.

Athens is one of the places to start your day.

📍 4 Agias Irini Square, Monastiraki, Athens 10560

3. Style Cafe – The Serene Retreat of Psirri

It has been here since 1999. I go to Style Cafe when I want to escape the noise of Psirri and find some peace and quiet. It is a real hidden gem - I manage to escape the crowds.

📍 12 Agion Anargyron, Psirri, Athens 10554

4. Kosta – The best souvlaki in Athens

The debate about which is the best souvlaki in Athens is always open. But Kostas always wins my vote. Fresh, fast and reasonably priced. Don't pass by here if you are between Monastiraki and Plaka!

📍 2 Agias Irini Square, Monastiraki, Athens 10560

5. Brettos – A colorful legend since 1909

The most photogenic bar in Plaka. Colorful liquor bottles adorning the wall, wooden furniture, a glass steeped in history. Raising a glass here in the afternoon has become one of my Athenian rituals.

📍 41 Kydathineon, Plaka, Athens 10558

6. Ta Giuvetsakia – 50 year old family tavern

If you are looking for a truly traditional Greek taverna , Giouvetsakia is the place for you. Same family, same recipes, for over 50 years. You sit down, you eat and time stands still.

📍 Adrianou 144, Plaka, Athens 10558

7. Psarras Tavern – In the Garden since 1898

Dinner in an ivy-covered garden, right in the shadow of the Acropolis... Psarras has been offering this restaurant since 1898. It is the most well-known choice in Plaka for seafood and moussaka.

📍 16 Erotokritou & Erechtheou, Plaka, Athens 10556

8. Kosmikon – Historical Wall, Historical Flavor

Located on Adrianou Street since 1966. A family business, in a historic building, with a view of the Acropolis. A quiet break for snacks and cocktails.

📍 Adrianou 119, Plaka, Athens 10558

9. Ermou 18 Beyond the Horizon – View of the Acropolis

On the seventh floor, the city opens up before you as soon as you step off the elevator. It's high on the list for those who want an Athenian rooftop bar experience . Aperol Spritz with a view of the Acropolis - like something out of a movie.

📍 Ermou 18, Floor 7, Athens

10. Kapnikarea – Not street music, but the spirit of rebetiko

Live rebetiko music in front of the historic church on Ermou Street. No need to go inside – just stand there for a few minutes, let the music take you away. Athens can be so beautiful.

📍 Ermou & Kapnikareas Square, Athens

PSYRRI – THE CENTER OF BOHEMIAN NIGHTLIFE

11. Baba au Rum – One of the best bars in the world

Every year it appears on lists of the world's top bars. Signature cocktails, attentive service, a serious experience. Reservations are essential – you won't find a seat by accident.

📍 6 Kleitiou, Athens 10560

12. Boo Athens – Psirri Energy Hub

Wooden details, ivy-covered walls, energy that lasts until midnight. It makes sense to start exploring Psirri's nightlife from here.

📍 Psirri, Athens

13. 1002 Nights – Atmosphere of One Thousand and One Nights

The name says it all. An evening of traditional Greek music and live performances. This is my first stop for anyone looking for live music in Athens .

📍 Psirri, Athens

14. Cafe 111 – The Final Spot to Close the Evening

If, as the night grows longer, you are looking for a quiet and intimate corner for a last drink, 111 has the perfect solution.

📍 Near Psirri / Plaka, Athens

BONUS – HIDDEN SPACES OF ATHENS

Anafiotika – A little Santorini in the city

Located above Plaka, among whitewashed houses, it is a place that most tourists pass unnoticed. With its small cafes, narrow streets and the sounds of the Mediterranean, it is the perfect escape.

📍 Anafiotika, Plaka, Athens

🎟️ Visiting the Acropolis? In high season the ticket queues get long.

Skip-the-line tickets and guided tours in Athens are here – I recommend booking a morning slot before the heat.

PRACTICAL ADVICE FOR TRAVELING TO ATHENS

Arrive before 8 p.m.: Restaurants in Plaka fill up quickly, so early booking is advantageous.
Bring cash: Cards may not be accepted in small taverns and street food stalls.
Reservation on the terrace: Book in advance for spaces with a view of the Acropolis (Ermou 18, A for Athens).
For the summer months: Plenty of water, comfortable shoes, and a planned schedule for breaks in the shade are essential.
Suggested route: Plaka → Monastiraki → Psirri. Combines history and entertainment.
Psirri vs. Plaka: Plaka for romantic and historical atmosphere, Psirri for intense nightlife.

It is impossible – and unnecessary – to see all 19 of these places in a single visit. Athens offers something different every time. I discover a new level every time I go.

📱 Internet tip: To find all these spots on the map, mobile data is a must. I use a Greece eSIM from here – it’s active as soon as you land.

In Athens, do you prefer Plaka or Psirri? Tell us in the comments, let's discuss it together.

In the next post, maybe we can create a one-day Athens itinerary – from morning to night, step by step.

With love for Athens...

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