Even when Europe is going through an economic crisis, you can still enjoy la dolce vita (the sweet life) without breaking the bank. Rome is nothing less than delicious food with endless dishes. No matter how much you gorge yourself on its splendor, you’ll feel like there’s room for more. Few cities in the world can offer the variety of experiences that Rome has to offer.

Home to the Vatican and seat of the Italian government, Rome has impeccable credentials for being the capital of Italy. More than its current glory, it is the history of the city that most attracts visitors. From the remains of the Imperial Age to the relics of the Renaissance and its Baroque riches, Rome is an architectural masterpiece and a feast for the eyes.

Begin your journey of discovery by visiting the Vatican City. It was declared an independent city in 1929. You can enjoy the impressive architecture of Saint Peter’s Basilica, the largest church in the world, the Vatican Museum and the Sistine Chapel.

The city of ancient Rome was built on seven hills, which divided it into two parts: each part has its own distinct personality and the differences between them survive to this day. Trastevere (residents here call themselves the original Romans), located on the west bank of the Tiber River, has countless pizzerias and authentic restaurants. Across the river is the Basilica of Santa Sabina and the church of Sant’Alessio. Just a short walk away, you will come across Testaccio, where the graves of English poets such as Keats and Shelley can be found.

The historic center is home to magnificent sites such as the Spanish Steps, the Pantheon and Piazza Venezia. Walk through the winding cobblestone streets and you will be transported to the world of chariots and gladiators. In fact, the historical significance of the city seems to surface in every corner of the center that you visit.

Rome is not just about its illustrious past. The locals have eagerly embraced modernity without leaving the past behind. The city has a large number of restaurants and wine bars in areas such as Camp de’ Fiori. During the day you can visit the morning markets with vendors of limoncello, pasta and other local products, or shop for world-famous brands along the famous Via Cordotti and pick up fancy things at Prada or Valentino. If you want a break from the hustle and bustle of daily Roman city life, you can head to nearby Tuscany to take in the beautiful countryside or hike to the top of Mount Vesuvius near Naples.

Back in Rome, stay in a luxury villa in Italy, drink some wine or coffee, walk the cobblestone streets dotted with centuries-old ruins, eat lots of ice cream, and spend long hours lounging in heritage markets: after all, that’s what it’s all about. the sweet life all about.