As a new day starts in a city dating back more than 2,700 years, it’s hard to imagine a place more steeped in history and tradition than Rome, the Eternal City. Birthplace of one of the most important ancient civilizations in the world, Rome is a city of the heart, mind and stomach.

You wont find any unsightly high-rises, modern architecture or manicured parks; instead you’ll find a city largely untouched by modernity, preserved in all its glory. It’s truly a historic playground for all the senses.

At Sharp we adore Rome. We’d love to take you all by the hand and show you our favourite spots, to wax lyrical about the finer points of regional cuisine and the finest wines. In the meantime, here’s our insider’s guide to this most magical of cities.

Eat

Italians have an appreciation for food like no one else. Here, food is respected. It’s sourced locally, is always seasonal, and restaurants keep to traditional recipes from the different regions. So forget about that globalized Italian food you’ve come to know and love. Sorry, Alfredo…

Almatò

https://www.almato.it

This Michelin Guide recommended restaurant is wildly popular, and with good reason. Chef Tommaso Venuti works wonders with traditional Roman cooking, and is loved for his wild inventive tasting menus. We love Venuti’s twists on traditional flavours, bringing new life to familiar dishes with care and humility. Small and unpretentious, Almatò is well known for its attentive service and good value. Can one visit be enough?

Metamorfosi

Find on Google Maps

In a city with such deep traditions, it’s hard to find a restaurant willing to break the mold. Ready to take culinary innovation to the next level is Colombian chef Roy Caceres, head chef of Metamorfosi. Roy puts modern spins on traditional recipes from Italy and South America and makes them into playful, edible art. With innovative food, attentive service and a minimalist design, it’s clear to see why Metamorfosi has earned its Michelin star.

Explore

Streets of Trastevere

Explore Area on Google Maps

Nestled on the west bank of the Tiber River, Trastevere is the less polished version of the Centro Storico (Historic Centre). What it lacks in grandeur it makes up for in charm and personality. Originally occupied by the lower social classes of Rome, today Trastevere is a playground for the young. The cobblestone paths are lined with ivy-covered restaurants, boutique shops and lively bars. During the day performers fill the streets and by night, people spill out from the bars into Piazza Santa Maria. With a constant buzz and unstoppable energy, it’s no wonder Romans often refer to Trastevere as the true heart of Rome.

Vatican City

https://m.museivaticani.va

With just 800 citizens, the Vatican City is officially the world’s smallest country. Visible from nearly all areas of Rome, St Peters Basilica is a dominating presence. Mostly designed by Michelangelo in the 16th Century, this stunning building showcases the the very best of Renaissance architecture. The scale is truly mindblowing. The Vatican Museum, a must for any visitor to Rome, houses some of the most important collections of art and sculptures in the world. Skip the queue by booking tickets online beforehand, or you could find yourself waiting for hours. Tell Francis we sent you.

The Aventine Hill

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When you’ve had your fill of tourist attractions head to the Aventine Hill, the southernmost of Rome’s seven hills with a view like no other. At the top you will find the Giardino degli Aranci (Orange Garden) with a bird’s eye view over the city. Once you’ve taken in the sights, continue down the road and you will come to The Knights of Malta Keyhole in Piazza dei Cavalieri di Malta. Peek through the keyhole to see one of the most unique views of Rome, a manicured garden perfectly framing St Peter’s Basilica in the distance. Be sure to bring your camera, as this is one photo op you won’t want to miss.

Rome is a village. It’s small and easy to navigate, where all the main sights could be seen in one day. However, the best moments here are unscripted. It’s a city best explored with curiosity and excitement. Here, life is lived in the moment, and so it should be. This is La Dolce Vita after all.