Extending Your European Cruise in Rome | Italy

During a European cruise, you have the opportunity to see some of the most amazing European destinations. At the top of this list is Rome, an ancient city full of modern appeal. Once you step foot in Rome, what’s the rush to leave? This city is full of exciting restaurants, excellent Italian wine, and designer shopping. Extend your trip by planning to spend some time in the Eternal City.

Fontana di Trevi, Rome / Photo by admin

Rome’s Main Attractions

During a first-time visit to Rome, there are a few main attractions that must be seen including the Colosseum, the Roman Forum and the Trevi Fountain.

Luxury Boutiques

Step foot in Rome and one of the first things you will notice is how fashionable the locals are, even when out running simple errands. How could they not be with their streets lined with the likes of Prada and Dolce & Gabbana? The most prestigious place to do some shopping is along elegant Via de Condotti. Here you will find luxury boutiques from some of Italy’s most famous fashion designers including Versace and Armani. It is a real experience to walk into Bulgari or Fendi and make a purchase in the city where these brands were founded.

Upscale Dining

Many people plan entire trips to Rome just to eat. While other areas of Rome specialize in rustic dishes, restaurants in Rome are as refined as those in New York City — but with that distinct Italian flair. Beyond dining in the latest and greatest restaurants, Rome also offers the opportunity to engage with food and wine. If you’re interested in cooking, how about signing up for a cooking lesson with a local chef? If you want to expand your wine knowledge, there are many tastings (some paired with food) that will be both educational and fun. There are also many walking tours led by local experts focused on traditional Roman food.

Relax at the Spa

Part of the pleasure of Rome is strolling through Campo dei Fiori or Piazza Navona after dark, soaking in the architecture and atmosphere. After all that walking, you’ll probably be ready for a serene spa day. This capital city has a range of decadent spas to choose between, including Cavalieri Grand Spa, De Russie Wellness Zone, and Hassler Roma Spa. Do a little investigating before your arrival and you could plan a spa day that includes a romantic couple’s massage. These spas are very popular and in demand, so be sure to make your reservations in advance online to ensure an appointment on the day and time you desire.

Rome’s Little Pleasures

It’s easy to fill your days in Rome with so many museums, shops, and boutiques. But part of the fun in Rome is slowing down to enjoy the city’s little pleasures. Instead of rushing to dinner, how about sitting down in a square for an aperitivo? For a little culture, you can get dressed up for an evening at the Orchestra Sinfonica di Roma. The Italians are known for their sweets, so after dinner or the theater, why not stop into Gina, a restaurant known for its dolci? After a few days, you might start thinking like an Italian, beginning your day with an espresso and joining in on the daily evening stroll.

Rent a Luxury Apartment

If you really want to see how the Romans live, step into their shoes. Rent a luxury Rome apartment and explore the local neighborhoods. Here you can take fashion inspiration from the locals, discover off-the-beaten-path boutiques for shoes and handbags, and linger of a glass of wine at lunch in a local ristorante. A luxury apartment will provide generous living space and a kitchen for stocking healthy snacks and drinks. When researching, keep your eye out for rentals with special touches such as a soaking tub, a balcony with views, or rooftop access.

Regardless of where you stay and what you do, there’s nothing like a trip to Rome.  Take your time and enjoy it!

About the Author
Joseph Miller is a writer and analyst for HomeAway’s Travel Ideas site. He has lived in California, Oregon, Florida, Texas and Tokyo and enjoys a good cruise now and then.

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Tags: bulgari, campo dei fiori, Colosseum, cooking lesson, european destinations, famous fashion designers, italian flair, italian wine, luxury boutiques, Piazza Navona, prada, prestigious place, restaurants in rome, roman food, roman forum, time visit, Trevi Fountain, walking tours, wine knowledge

Category: Cities, Rome