Move over Paris, there’s a new City of Love in town. It might not be your typical destination for a Romantic Valentine’s getaway, but nothing quite says ‘I Love You’ like fine wine, mouth-watering cuisine and stunning architecture. If you’re looking to treat that special someone in your life this Valentine’s day then why not take them to the city of art, good food and electric ambiance on a tour of Rome? If Rome is your romantic getaway of choice this Valentine’s Day, be sure to get all loved-up with this guide to the most romantic things to do while you’re there.
1. Toss a Coin in the Trevi
A visit to the enchanting Trevi Fountain on your romantic getaway must be top of the list. Channel your inner Lizzie Mc Guire as you make a wish with your loved one at one of Rome’s most iconic sights. Legend has it that that if you toss in one coin, you’ll be sure to return to Rome, toss in two coins for guaranteed romance and toss in three coins to marry the subject of that romance. Cliché we know, but who isn’t wishing for a bit of love and romance over the Valentine’s Day period. To learn more about this monumental fountain, its origins and myths, be sure to join a walking tour of Rome, where a local, expert guide will immerse you in the history of this stunning water feature.
2. Picnic in the Green Heart of Rome
Forming the shape of a heart, Rome’s stunning Borghese Gardens have long been referred to as the Green Heart of Rome. Coined as the Roman version of New York’s Central Park, this lush green landscape marries exotic wildlife with world-class art. The park boasts a range of exciting activities, from row boats on the lake to panorama view over the city. Pack a picnic of prosecco, local cheeses and fresh bread and while away the day in this truly spectacular wonderland of nature. A charming picnic for two in a heart? Now that screams romance.
If art piques your interest, then be sure to take a tour of the gardens, equally breathtaking, Villa Borghese Gallery while you are there. The Borghese Gallery is one of Rome’s best kept secrets. Although smaller and less well known than the Vatican, its art collection is equally as impressive. Boasting masterpieces by Caravaggio, Canova, Raphael, Bernini and many more, a tour of the Borghese Gallery is the perfect way to kick-start a loved-up day in Rome.
3. Rent a Vespa
A vespa is the ultimate prop for any Romcom set in Italy. There are lots of vespa rental stores dotted around the city. With no tour group or guide to cramp your style, map out your own itinerary and hop aboard for a romantic tour for two around Rome’s most iconic landmarks, or hidden treasures.
If this sounds like the ultimate romantic experience for you lovebirds, please make sure to take your time on the roads, driving in Italy is notoriously stressful.
4. Watch the Sunset on the Spanish Steps
The Spanish Steps are a must-see on any Rome sightseeing tour, but you can add a splash of romance to your visit of these historic steps when you visit at sunset. Spanning a total 138 steps between Piazza di Spagna and Piazza Trinita dei Monti, the Spanish Steps are a social hub for visitors and locals alike. Combine culture with romance as you climb to the top of the steps for the best view of the city, on your romantic getaway. Buy yourself a bottle of bubbly and toast to the mesmerizing city of Rome as the sun goes down.
5. Nothing Says Romance Like the Amalfi
Bejeweled with charming golden beaches, colorful seaside villages and scrumptious seafood, the Amalfi Coast will be sure to get you feeling the love. With day trips from Rome to the Amalfi Coast, you’ll be able to bask in the beauty of this slice of heaven on earth, no matter how short your stay in Rome is. Treat your other half to a truly memorable Valentine’s Day with an Amalfi Coast day trip from Rome.
6. Give Them a Pizza Your Heart
Italy is the home of pizza and pizza is the food of love, right? Be sure to shower your loved one in Rome’s finest attraction on your romantic getaway with slice after slice of pizza. Delicious dining doesn’t have to come with a hefty price tag while in Rome. Grab yourselves a couple of mouth-watering slices of the good stuff, from any of the city’s much-loved pizzerias, and make your way down to Piazza Navona to soak up the square’s electric atmosphere as you eat.
Another way to enjoy a romantic dinner for two, without falling for the tourist traps with extortionate pricing, is to take a wander to the Trastevere neighborhood, where the locals go to eat. Veering off the beaten track for a little adventure is always romantic, and in Rome it’s a must. Discover Rome's hidden district of Trastevere, located across the River Tiber, away from the center of Rome and its crowds. From authentic ristorantes to trendy cafés and quaint wine bars, spend an evening in local Roma in this truly charming neighborhood.
From delicious food to fine wine, breathtaking art to enchanting scenery, there is so much to experience in this incredible city and who better to share it with than your other half. And while you’re there don’t forget to book into a guided Colosseum tour or a tour of the Roman Catacombs. Don’t just visit Rome, immerse yourself in it on these best Rome tours.