Most Romantic Walks in Rome

If you are on your honeymoon or you are just in the mood for romance, you will find unlimited opportunities for charming walks in Rome. The walk from the Galleria Borghese to the Pincio, one of the most famous strolls in Rome, should be done in time to watch the sun go down over St. Peter's (pictured). For you archaeology buffs, a walk on the Palatine Hill will take you out of the crowds and into shady paths with lovely views of the Forum (and some interesting ruins-like the house of the Emperor Augustus- as well). An evening passegiata in Trastevere will inspire you to move to Rome and become a starving artist. Don't miss the Piazza Santa Maria in Trastevere and its namesake church, whose 12th century Byzantine mosaics are illuminated at night. If your legs are up to it, head up to Piazzale Garibaldi on the Gianicolo (Janiculum Hill) for the best view of Rome. Don't forget to linger by the Fontana dell'Acqua Paola. And last, if you need to get out of the hustle and bustle of the city for a day, take the train to Ostia Antica. Pack a picnic lunch and wander among the ruins for the afternoon. Be sure to visit the amphitheater, public baths and forum.
Readers: What's your favorite walk in Rome?

Piazzale Garibaldi-The Best Views of Rome?

There are two spectacular parks in Rome which offer panoramic views. The Pincio (near Piazza del Popolo) and Piazzale Garibaldi, on the Gianicolo (Janiculum Hill). From Piazzale Garibaldi not only can you see all of the historic center of Rome to the east-the Pantheon, the Colosseum, the Forum, etc-but to the west you have an incomparable view of the dome of St. Peter's. The piazza, which contains a playground for children and hosts live puppet shows ala Punch and Judy, is dedicated to Giuseppe Garibaldi, the Italian military and political leader who helped unify and liberate Italy in the 19th century. From the piazza it is an easy walk to the Fontanone (the fountain dedicated by Pope Paul V), the American Academy in Rome, and down into Trastevere for food and drink!

Where to Cool Off on a Hot Day in Rome

Let's face it-the heat in Rome can be unbearable at the height of summer. The sun is blinding, the streets are crowded, and your shoes were not made for cobblestones. You are dying for a quiet hour next to the pool. Unfortunately, swimming pools are hard to come by. It's pretty much impossible to find a hotel with a pool in the historic center of Rome. The Cavalieri Hilton hotel has a pool and lovely wooded acres, but it's 3 miles from the center of town-not exactly convenient if you want to stay in the Centro Storico. There is good news, however! For 25 Euros (not cheap-but desperate times call for desperate measures) you can buy your way into a pool in the city for the whole day. The Grand Hotel del Gianicolo, located atop the Gianicolo hill at Viale delle Mura Gianicolense #107, has a lovely pool that is within a short walk from Trastevere. After your swim, have a coffee at one of the nearby cafes, take a stroll past the American Academy, the Aqua Paola and on to Garibaldi Park for a top-notch view of the city! Don't forget your bathing cap-a requirement at Italian pools (and available at the hotel for 5 Euros).