Hack: How to Live Like a Local for a Day in Rome

I’ve been in Rome more than 10 times, so I’m not a tourist anymore and I’d like to share my day I spent like a local 1. Breakfast on Cappuccino e Cornetto Start your day the Roman way and have a breakfast of Cappuccino e cornetto – which is a Cappuccino and a sweet croissant. For extra points, stand at the bar instead of sitting down. 2. Head to the Aventine Hill – Rome’s Best Kept Secret Rome is one of the most incredible places to visit in all of Europe. It can at times be busy. That’s ok – we’re keen for you to see our treasures. However, if you want to experience a quieter place, head to the Aventine – the hill of poetry, one of the Eternal City’s best-kept secrets. It offers the best view of Rome, and it is popular with the locals. 3. Sample Some Aperitivo The apertivo is one of Italy’s best creations. You can experience it any bar in Rome from around 7pm until 9pm. It simply means to ‘whet one’s appetite’, and to prepare your stomach for our rich Italian meals. Romans will use this time to get together in a bar and have a Negroni or a drink of your choice – and the price usually includes a free light snack that will be served with your drink. 4. Eat at a Family Run Trattoria A family run Trattoria will have a steady stream of clients – usually locals. It’s the best place to taste our delicious food. One of the best is near the Pantheon – Antica Trattoria da Pietro al Pantheon. The food is amazing, the owner is very friendly and will guide you through the options – which are always seasonal – and the wine is incredible and very reasonable, which is probably why it is always very busy with locals. 5. Try True Roman Pizza from a Bakery Rather than a Restaurant For the best pizza experience in Rome, buy some from a bakery rather than a restaurant. They make wonderful pizza dough on sheets; cut down into squares – a perfect size to eat on the go.