Introduction
Rome is a city that is rich in history, culture, and art, making it one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. However, the crowds and long lines at popular tourist sites can make it difficult to fully enjoy the city. In this guide, we will explore how to experience Rome the non-touristy way.
Get Off the Beaten Path
To experience Rome like a local, it’s essential to get off the beaten path. Instead of visiting the popular tourist sites like the Colosseum and the Vatican, explore the city’s lesser-known gems. Visit the beautiful Villa Borghese, a historic villa and park that offers art galleries, museums, and a beautiful garden. Or take a stroll through the charming neighborhood of Trastevere, known for its narrow cobblestone streets, artisan shops, and delicious restaurants.
Take a Food Tour
Rome is known for its delicious food, and taking a food tour is a great way to experience the city’s culinary scene. Join a food tour that takes you to local markets and trattorias, where you can try traditional Roman dishes like spaghetti alla carbonara, saltimbocca alla romana, and supplì. You can also take a gelato tour to discover the best gelato in Rome.
Visit Local Museums
Rome is home to many museums and galleries, but instead of visiting the famous museums like the Vatican Museums and the Galleria Borghese, visit some of the lesser-known museums. The Museum of Rome, the National Museum of Rome, and the Museum of the Imperial Forums are some of the best options. These museums offer a glimpse into the history and art of Rome and are often less crowded than the popular tourist sites.
Take a Bike Tour
Rome is a city that is best explored on foot, but taking a bike tour is a great way to see the city from a different perspective. Bike tours offer a unique way to see the city, and you can explore areas that are not easily accessible by foot. You can take a bike tour of the city’s ancient ruins, or a tour of the city’s parks and gardens.
Attend a Local Event
Attending a local event is a great way to experience the culture and traditions of Rome. In the summer, locals flock to the city’s piazzas for outdoor concerts and movies. Or you can attend a traditional Roman festival like the Festa de Noantri, which is held in Trastevere in August, or the Festa di Santa Maria in Trastevere, which is held in June.
Conclusion
Rome is a city that offers something for everyone, but it’s essential to get off the beaten path to fully experience it. By exploring the city’s lesser-known gems, taking a food tour, visiting local museums, taking a bike tour, and attending a local event, you can experience Rome like a local and avoid the crowds of tourists.
