Today we are going to tell you about the Trastevere district, one of the most famous in Rome, both for its history and for the nightlife that has always characterized it.
We all know that it is one of the most popular among tourists, but do you know why?
Certainly one of its highlights is its unique atmosphere. Walking through its narrow alleys and small squares feels like being back in the Rome of the past.
The name of the district derives from the Latin ‘trans Tiberim’, the name of the ancient Augustan ‘regio’, and means ‘across the Tiber‘ from the beating heart of the city that had developed on the other side of the river.
Some of the interesting sights we can find during a stroll include the National Museum of Ancient Art, in whose garden there is a beautiful botanical garden.
How can we fail to mention Villa Farnesina, with its frescoes attributed to Raphael Sanzio, or the churches of Santa Maria in Trastevere or Santa Cecilia, inside which one can also find the statue of the same name by Maderno.
The Gianicolo Belvedere in Rome
One of the most amazing things to do is to climb up to the belvedere on the Gianicolo to admire the splendid view of Rome and the ‘cupolone’. One thing that everyone doesn’t know is that just below the belvedere every day at noon three soldiers fire a blank cannon shot. Whether rain, snow or shine, it is a daily appointment that has never missed since 1846, when it was instituted by Pope Pius IX to let all the churches in the capital know the exact time.
Tips for the best places to eat in Trastevere
However, let’s move on to the real interesting part: what are the best places to eat? How not to fall into a tourist trap?
Today we will give you some tips to help you blend in with the locals.
If you fancy something traditional, we recommend Nannarella Osteria and Enzo al 29. Absolutely not to be missed are the artichokes alla romana or alla giudia depending on the season and the pasta alla gricia.
Renella is the neighbourhood bakery with its pizza alla pala and rustic bread loaves. Opened as early as 1870, it has baked bread for all the neighbourhood residents and restaurants in the area.
But there are not only rustic trattorias in the neighborhood but also starred realities to be discovered such as Zia e Glass, which we absolutely recommend for a special occasion.
For cocktail lovers, an establishment in the area is definitely Freni e Frizioni, but trust us and try La Punta Expendio De Agave, a Mexican agaveria where you can not only enjoy fabulous cocktails, but also a taste of Mexico in Rome.
Now you have a complete overview of the neighbourhood and you also have some tips to use to look like a real Roman.
Don’t miss the chance to visit the Trastevere District like a local with one of our Rome Tours.
