EN All journey times are approximate and subject to variation.
Rome
Romantic things to do in Rome
Italians are considered some of the most romantic people in the world, so where better to celebrate your love than in the Italian capital of Rome? From charming gardens and intimate restaurants to jewellery shopping and jaw-dropping views, there are plenty of opportunities to create lasting memories in the Eternal City. Spend a romantic weekend away in Rome with the help of this two-day itinerary.
Day one
Start the day with a 20-minute drive to The Orange Garden.
Via di Santa Sabina, 00153 Rome
The Orange Garden
While its name suggests that the highlight of The Orange Garden (Giardino degli Aranci or Parco Savello) is its orchard of fruit trees, its views are, in fact, its most captivating attraction. The pocket-sized garden directly overlooks St Peter’s Basilica and its terrace offers unbelievably beautiful views of Rome. Visit with your partner in the morning, when the sun casts an enchanting glow over the city.
Take a short five-minute walk to the next garden on the itinerary.
T: +39 06 574 6810 | Via di Valle Murcia 6, 00153 Rome
Rome Rose Garden
Nothing says romance like a walk through a blossoming rose garden. Rome Rose Garden (Roseto Comunale) at the foot of Aventino Hill is one of the city’s most charming green spaces. Open from May to October each year, the garden is filled with over 1,000 different varieties of botanical roses from all over the world, with some dating back to Roman times.
Then, take a 25-minute drive to Keats-Shelley House.
T: +39 06 678 4235 | Piazza di Spagna 26, 00187 Rome
Keats-Shelley House
At the foot of the famous Spanish Steps stands another of Rome’s most romantic sites, Keats-Shelley House. A memorial to English Romantic poetry, the museum is located in the former home of John Keats. Inspire the romance within by exploring the works of Keats and other literary talents such as Lord Byron, Mary and Percy Bysshe Shelley and Leigh Hunt.
The next location is just a one-minute walk away.
00187 Rome
Jewellery Shopping on Via Condotti
When in Rome, treat your loved one to a special piece of jewellery from the city’s glamorous shopping avenue, Via Condotti. The street is filled with the sparkling boutiques of international brands including Bulgari, Tiffany & Co., Cartier and Van Cleef & Arpels. If it’s authentic Italian design that appeals, visit Milanese jewellers Buccellati, or local Roman jewellers and watchmakers Hausmann & Co.
Take a 15-minute drive of 20-minute walk to Per Me Giulio Terrinoni for dinner.
T: +39 06 6877 365 | Vicolo del Malpasso 9, Via Guilia, Roma
Per Me Giulio Terrinoni
Tucked behind a façade twinkling with fairy lights, the Michelin starred Per Me Giulio Terrinoni exudes romance. The eponymous head chef showcases the finest local ingredients in a collection of imaginative dishes, the best of which come together in his 10-course “Between Earth and Sea” tasting menu. On balmy evenings, opt for a table on the cobbles outside.
At the end of the evening, hail a taxi and enjoy a 15-minute ride back to the hotel.
Day two
Rise early and take a 45-minute drive to Villa d’Este.
T: +39 0774 312070 | Piazza Trento 5, 00019 Tivoli RM
Villa d’Este
Experience Renaissance-style romance with a trip to Villa d’Este, a UNESCO-designated Renaissance palace in Tivoli, on the outskirts of Rome. The noble 16th century Roman estate is particularly famous for is stunning terraced gardens, which feature picturesque landscaping and an impressive pond lined with ornamental fountains. The villa, with its Cardinal apartments and colourful frescos, is also well-worth visiting.
Travel back into central Rome with a 45-minute drive to Villa Borghese.
T: +39 06 328 10 | Viale dell'Aranciera, 00197 Rome
Boating on the Laghetto di Villa Borghese
Stretch your legs after the drive back to Rome with a stroll through the landscaped gardens of Villa Borghese. For the ultimate declaration of romance, visit the lake and hire a boat to charm your loved one as you row across the water in front of the 18th century Temple of Aesculapius. Some poems from yesterday’s Keats-Shelley House trip may come in handy, too.
Then, take a 20-minute walk or drive to the Trevi Fountain.
Piazza di Trevi, 00187 Rome
Make a Wish at the Trevi Fountain
The tradition of throwing coins into the Trevi Fountain has been practised for so long, there was even a movie made about it in 1954, Three Coins in the Fountain. Legend says that if you stand with your back to the striking Baroque fountain and toss a coin over your left shoulder into the water, then you’re guaranteed to return to Rome.
Next, take a leisurely 15-minute walk or drive to The Library.
T: +39 334 806 12 00 | Vicolo della Cancelleria 36, 00186 Rome
The Library
Despite its name, The Library is actually a restaurant – one of the cosiest and most romantic in Rome. Dine on Italian dishes and enjoy fine wine and cigars under the glow of candlelight at this intimate Italian trattoria, which is discreetly hidden a few streets away from the Piazza Navona and Campo dei Fiori.
After dinner, take a 20-minute drive to Teatro dell’Opera di Roma.
T: +39 06 481 601 | Piazza Beniamino Gigli 1, 00184 Rome
Teatro dell'Opera di Roma
Rome’s grandest opera house, Teatro dell’Opera di Roma makes the perfect setting for an evening of romance in the Eternal City. With opulent interiors and a captivating schedule of opera, orchestral and ballet performances, it’s impossible not to get swept up by the magic of this theatre. For an extra special occasion, book a private box and watch the show from the best seats in the house.
To get back to the hotel, choose between a 10-minute taxi ride or a 15-minute walk.
Explore
Heading out to explore? Download our itineraries for all the ideas you need to make the most of your visit to the capital.