Romans take two things very seriously: Football & Food! The art of Cucina Romana is in its simplicity: taking a handful of simple ingredients and letting them shine. Rome’s most famous dishes were born from humble beginnings and the need for “Cucina Povera” or Peasant Food.
You cannot come to Rome without talking about the Famous Four. A quartet of pastas centred around Pecorino cheese and Guanciale, a cured pig’s cheek. So whether you like the creaminess of Cacio e Pepe, Carbonara or Gricia, or you opt for my favourite, the tomato-based Amatriciana, you will not be disappointed!
Rome also has a fantastic street food scene. You simply cannot pass up the chance to try Pizza al Taglio (by the slice,) Suppli a la Romana (rice balls similar to arancini,) or Trapizzini (a filled pizza pocket)
Roman’s passion for food can almost become aggressive as they all fight to recommend their favourite spot and way to eat, but they will all agree that food is to be savoured and there is absolutely NO cream in a Carbonara!
Our walking food tour meanders around the hidden streets, with glimpses of the famous tourist spots along the way. If you want to discover Rome, follow our interactive map, ignore the calories (20,000 steps says you can!) and enjoy this beautiful city one bite at a time.
Interactive Food Tour Map
Where the Tour will Take you
Starting Point
The tour starts at Termini train station, which is the easiest way to get into central Rome.
Testaccio Market
You can walk here from the station, taking in the Colosseum, Roman Forum and Circus Maximus on the way. Try fresh pasta from Le Mani in Pasta and also grab a fresh porchetta panino from one of the many vendors.
Suppli Roma
Choose from the variety of flavours of deep-fried rice balls that have been stuffed with mozzarella to give the ultimate cheese pull!
Antico Forno Roscioli & Dar Filetaro
A famous bakery, well known for Pizza al Taglio. Choose as many flavours as you like, you will pay by weight. Roman Pizza is definitely something to behold: thin, crispy and made with the best ingredients.
Dar Filetaro
Dar Filetaro has some of the best Baccala I have ever tasted. Deep-fried salt cod in a crisp batter- think fish and chips, but better. If you are keen on seeing the sights of Rome, you are not a million miles from the Pantheon and Fontana Di Trevi.
End The Day…
Now you are starting to feel like a Roman Gladiator who has gone 10 rounds with a lion, it is time to head back to the train station and enjoy a well-earned rest on your journey back to camp.
Where to stay in Rome
Places to stay around Rome are really not my forte, as my family live just an hour’s train ride away.
My best advice is to stay well out of the city, near a train station. Bracciano is a great option. You can stay on the shores of the lake, with the train station being in Bracciano town (15 min walk). It is around 1hr on the train into central Rome.
Do your research, as with any big city, parking your pride and joy can be risky business. Have your wits about you and choose a secure site rather than a random park-up. You will thank me in the long run!
Rome FAQs
What is Roman food like?
In my extremely biased opinion, Roman food is some of the best in the world. Focused on simplicity, quality and flavour, Romans take their food very seriously.
How long will the food tour take?
It is doable in a day, depending on how much sightseeing you want to do. If you want to tour the Colosseum or visit the Vatican, you will definitely need more than a day.
When is the best time to go to Rome?
I personally would avoid the summer months, it is crowded and very hot! We went at the end of November and the weather was perfect for walking around and it wasn’t too crowded. Make sure you check for any religious or sporting events as this can have a huge impact on how busy the city is.
Is Rome doable in a Campervan/Caravan/Motorhome?
The simple answer to that is yes, but with some caution! I would always recommend staying well out of the city and arriving by public transport. Driving around Rome is an ordeal even for the most experienced drivers, and the parkups away from the city are much safer.
Where do I get my Train Ticket?
You can buy these at the train station from the ticket machine. Make sure you validate/stamp your tickets before you board the train. Public transport in Italy is very dog-friendly, but make sure you carry a muzzle. We have never been asked to use one for Winston, but better to be safe than sorry.
Is Rome dog friendly?
Abso-woofing-lutely! Winston was welcomed everywhere we went! You may have some trouble if you want to take tours around some of the attractions but you are certainly allowed in the grounds.