Rome’s most romantic activities

Rome, the beautiful Eternal City, is often frequented by couples looking for a romantic getaway. The beauty of the amber buildings, the passion for art and culture, the deep feeling of thousands of years of history all combine to create frenetic energy and magical feeling. When on a cruise to Rome, there’s plenty a couple can do to level up the romance and embrace this wondrous city.

The Trevi Fountain is one of Rome’s most iconic sights. “Rome is filled with iconic landmarks but the Trevi Fountain is considered the most romantic,” Henrietta from TreasureRome told us. “This beautiful work of art is built into the facade of an 18th-century palazzo and depicts the sea god Oceanus along with Tritons, sea horses and numerous statues. You’ll hear the fountain before you see it and we recommend visiting for a stroll after dinner when the fountain is illuminated and you can enjoy the impressive setting without the crowds. Don’t forget to toss a coin into the fountain; one coin means you’ll return to Rome, two coins and you’ll fall in love and three coins mean you’ll return to Rome, find true love and marry.”

But when here, many people often miss the small fountain tucked away to the right of the main event - the Fountain of Lovers. Small and unimposing, the Fountain of Lovers has been a landmark for Roman couples for many years. Time ago, it was tradition for couples to drink from this fountain before the man went off to war. The girl would fill a new glass from the fountain and offer it to her partner who would then drink it and smash the glass, guaranteeing loyalty.

Nowadays, the fountain is often overlooked but for those in the know, it can still hold significance. When in Rome, throw a penny in the Trevi with your partner and then make your way round to the Fountain of Lovers - don’t forget your glass! This small act will tie you together with hundreds of years of tradition, ensuring a long and happy relationship for all.

The food in Rome is one of the reasons people visit time and time again. Made from fragrant, fresh ingredients, the dishes on offer here are unlike anywhere else in the world and have to be tried to be believed.

Dine alfresco on a cobbled street whilst sipping wine or freshly made cocktails, grab something to go and enjoy a picnic in one of Rome’s beautiful parks or indulge in a restaurant and eat your way through three courses. Whether you opt for a traditional pizza or splash out on something a bit more luxurious, the quality of your meal is sure to be of a high standard.

Situated right in the city centre, Villa Borghese is a landscaped garden that is filled with temples, museums and lakes and even a replica of Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre. Originally started in 1605, the gardens are now a popular space in the city to get back to nature but they make sure not to lose any Roman charm.

Slavi from Global Castaway told us why Rome is his favourite city, “Roaming around the cobblestone streets is undoubtedly one of the most romantic parts of the City of Love. But the winding alleys are not the only romantic venue in town. Love is in the air everywhere you go in Rome but more so in the former cardinal garden, Villa Borghese. The third-largest park in the city, Villa Borghese has plenty of classical fountains and picnic spots.

“To get the ultimate romantic experience, make sure to catch the sunset on the Pincian Hill. Also known as Pincio, the hill experience is hard to describe by words. Imagine a fiery sky over St. Peter’s Basilica and Piazza del Popolo. A street musician is playing the Titanic song while couples dance around you. But you see no other couples at this moment. It’s just you, your loved one and the magic of Rome.”

In every romantic movie set in Rome, there is one thing that always pops up, a two-person ride on the back of a Vespa. One person’s arms wrapped tightly around the other as they take in the sights. What could be more romantic?

You could easily experience this for yourself. If you’re both avid explorers who want to try and explore as much of the city as possible, not only is this the most romantic way to get around, it’s also one of the quickest.

Rome’s picture-perfect neighbourhood Trastevere is the perfect location for couples who want to spend their time in the city strolling hand in hand down cobbled streets. Alicia and Joe from Miles Less Travelled visited Trastevere while in Rome, they told us: “Trastevere feels like the real Rome, where locals live and tourist hotspots are long gone. The neighbourhood is full of tiny streets bustling with people and mini piazzas, you can’t help but feel the Italian charm as you stroll around."

We also chatted to Andrea from One Savvy Wanderer, she told us: “Couples looking for an authentic Roman experience that is away from the hustle and bustle of the typical tourist locations should head to Trastevere. The charming neighbourhood is filled with history, restaurants, cafes, bars and, of course, gelato. So there is something for every couple looking for a romantic evening out. While these types of places can typically be quite expensive closer to the main tourist attractions, couples will find everything a lot more affordable in Trastevere because it’s predominantly a locals spot that is not overrun by tourists.”