My 5 Favourite Spots in Rome After a Year of Blogging
Yes my loves, if you are reading this today, on September 6, 2025, it is officially my birthday and also the one year anniversary of my blog. Exactly one year ago I pressed publish for the very first time and I am forever grateful that I did. To celebrate turning 24 and my little blog turning one, I have put together a list of my favourite spots in Rome after a year of blogging. These places mean the world to me and if you ever find yourself in Rome, do not miss them because I am sure you will fall in love with them. Just as I did.
Parco degli Acquedotti
The first spot on my list is Parco degli Acquedotti, a place so special that I even dedicated an entire post to it back in the spring. Located in the southeastern part of Rome, it is actually part of the larger Parco dell'Appia Antica and is famous for its stunning and well-preserved remains of ancient Roman aqueducts that once supplied water to the city.
On the map it might look far from the centre, but it is an easy trip by metro. The park is on Line A, and from the Giulio Agricola stop it is just a ten minute walk to the entrance.
What I love most about Parco degli Acquedotti is its romantic and peaceful atmosphere. It is the perfect place for a picnic, whether you go by yourself, with friends, or for a romantic date, surrounded by history and beautiful nature.
Monte Mario
If you have been following my blog for a while you know that nothing makes me happier than a good viewpoint. Out of all the beautiful viewpoints in Rome, Monte Mario is one of my favourites. The climb up the hill is so rewarding, and it is far enough away from the centre to make you feel as if you have left the city behind. Monte Mario is actually the highest natural point in Rome, which makes the view even more spectacular.
I recommend starting at Piazza Maresciallo Giardino. There is both a parking area and a bus stop there with buses 32, 69, 280, 301 and 628, and from that point you can begin your walk up the hill. Bring plenty of water and wear comfortable shoes, because especially in the summer it can be a bit of a climb.
Ponte Palatino
I do not think I have ever talked about Ponte Palatino specifically on the blog, but on my Instagram you have probably seen a few photos from here. One of my favourite walking routes is to take the bus to Villa Borghese, then walk to Piazza del Popolo, follow the river all the way past Trastevere, cross the Ponte Palatino, continue past Circo Massimo, and finally take the metro back home.
There is something magical about Ponte Palatino for me. Sometimes I stand there after having drinks, and by drinks I usually mean tea, with a friend in Trastevere. Other times it is simply after a long walk. I listen to the water of the Tiber, look at Isola Tiberina, and it fills me with so much joy you have no idea.
The Testaccio market
Rome is a city of amazing food, and I love trying everything. The Testaccio market is a true gem, and if you have been following me for a while you already know that my favourite sandwich in the entire city comes from here. The market has everything from panini and pizza to fried foods and so many other delicious treats.
But there is more than food to explore. Fresh produce, clothes, shoes, gifts, handmade products, kitchenware, you name it, it is all there. Wandering through the Testaccio market feels like a treasure hunt because you never know what little gem you will stumble upon. I always seem to get lost, but I have come to embrace it because it is part of the fun. Testaccio itself is a neighbourhood filled with history and a warm atmosphere, and I recommend everyone to spend some time here when in Rome.
Villa Torlonia
Last but definitely not least is the beautiful Villa Torlonia. This park made the list for many reasons, and it is the way all of those reasons come together that makes it so special. It is full of history and beautiful museums, and Casina delle Civette is one of my favourites in all of Rome because I am a sucker for whimsical places like that.
Another reason I love it here is that the park is close to Sapienza, so it is often filled with students and memories. While it is not the biggest park in Rome, I come here often because it is so conveniently located and the atmosphere is always perfect.
Well, here comes the part where I confess that I lied. Because yes, these are my favourite spots in Rome, but at the same time they are not. My true favourite place in Rome will never be captured in a list. It is the moment I am on the bus travelling from A to B. It is when I leave my house for a walk in my neighbourhood park. It is when I meet my friends for an aperitivo, or when I find my way around the city blindly, because it feels so familiar now. Familiar, and yet still unknown, and maybe it always will be. Memories everywhere, with me adding my own between the cracks in the rocks that were already there. That is my Rome. The feeling of endless possibilities, endless friendships, endless love. My love for this city is so big, and I am forever grateful.
