Rome Hidden Gems: 10 Spots Locals Love - Palm Trees & Pellegrino

When visiting a city for the first time, I usually spend the first couple of days checking off the “must-sees.” You know, those spots that are just the classic tourist items. In the case of Rome, think of the Trevi Fountain and the Colosseum. After checking all of those off my list, I like to find the local spots. The spots that could be considered hidden gems that you might visit if you have the insider’s scoop. Keep reading for the 10 hidden Rome spots that locals love.

Hidden Rome Spot #1: The Trastevere Neigbhorhood

The neighborhood of Trastevere is the spot to visit for the classic Roman nightlife. You’ll find locals laughing over wine and plates of pasta on tiny crowded streets. The area was historically known as the Bohemian working-class area.

Spots to visit in Trastevere:

Piazzi di Santa Maria in Trastevere – a small piazza with a fountain and church. It’s a central meeting point in the area.
Basilica Santa Maria in Trastevere – other than aperitivo and delicious food, this is the top neighborhood attraction. It’s the oldest Marian church in the city.

Restaurants to add to your list: Both of these spots were highly rated by locals (shout out to my cousins who live there). You’ll find plenty of classic Roman dishes on the menu.

Il Duca – Rustic trattoria open since the 1980s.
La Scala in Trastevere – Try the cacio e pepe, you’ll thank me later!

Hidden Rome Spot #2: Galleria Sciarra

Tucked away in plain sight a few minutes away from the Trevi Fountain is the Galleria Sciarra. Built in the late 19th century by the Sciarra family, the Art Nouveau-styled galleria was meant to be a shopping mall. While this never occurred, today you can walk through and enjoy the detailed frescos.

Location: Via Marco Minghetti, 10, 00187 Roma RM, Italy
Pro Tip: Pair this with a visit the Trevi Fountain & shopping on Via del Corso

Hidden Rome Spot #3: Quartiere Coppedè

Located within the Trieste area of Rome, the Coppedè neighborhood is worth a quick stop for its quirky architecture. Named after the architect Gino Coppedè who designed the area, it mixes quite a few different styles. Upon looking closely, you’ll find nods to Art Nouveau, Roman Baroque, Ancient Greek, and Medieval styling.

Pro tip: While you could zoom through the area in 10 minutes, do spend the time studying all the tiny details. You’ll be surprised by what you’ll find.

What to see:

Fontana delle Rane – “Fountain of the Frogs”, located in the center of the square.
The Via Tagliamento Archway – entrance to the area.
Palazzo del Ragno
Villino delle Fate – “The Fairy Home” – probably the most notable building in the area due to the frescos and unique shape.

Hidden Rome Spot #4: Canova Tadolini

The Canova Tadolini restaurant and cafe is a spot like no other to grab a cappuccino and cornetto. Located in the old studio of sculptors Antonio Canova and his protégé Adamo Tadolini, you’ll feel like you’re sitting in a museum! Be sure to explore the restaurant as there are many hidden nooks and things to see.

Location: Via del Babuino, 150/a, 00187 Roma RM, Italy
Pro Tip: While it is pricey, the lunch we had was absolutely delicious and worth it.
While in the area: Visit the Spanish Steps

Hidden Rome Spot #5: Square Colosseum: Palazzo della Civiltà Italiana

Did you know Rome has a Square Colosseum?! Yes, you read that right. This imposing building is pretty out of the way but 150% worth it. Located in the EUR district, it was designed in 1938 and completed in 1943 in the Fascist architectural style. The building was commissioned by Benito Mussolini and was planned to be a business complex in advance of the 1942 World Exposition.

Location: Quadrato della Concordia, 3, 00144 Roma RM, Italy
Hours: Mon-Fri 9AM-6PM, Sat-Sun Closed

Hidden Rome Spot #6: The Court Apertivio

In Italy, the average aperitivo might cost between 5-12 euros depending on the location and city. It’ll usually come with a drink and light bites to eat before dinner.

The Court restaurant within the luxurious Palazzo Manfredi overlooks the Colosseum. If you’re looking for a little something to splurge on, it’s aperitivo at The Court (where it’ll run you about 25 euros per person).

Know before you go:

This spot gets booked pretty quickly, so plan to make a reservation at least one week before you’d like to visit.
Plan to go for sunset, it’s seriously stunning!
Go early to get a great table.

Hidden Rome Spot #7: The Water Clock in Villa Borghese

Villa Borghese is to Rome as Central Park is to New York City. This Villa is an absolute must-visit and is easily accessible from Piazza del Popola and the Spanish Steps. Originally developed by Cardinal Scipione Borghese in 1606, you can expect to enjoy getting lost in the park which is 80 hectares.

Location: Piazzale Napoleone I, 00197 Roma RM, Italy
Admission: Free
Hours: Sunrise to Sunset

Don’t Miss:

Lookout point – If you’re coming from the Spanish Steps, don’t forget to stop at this lookout point that overlooks the entire city.
The “water clock,” officially named the hydrochronometer – It was invented in 1867 by Dominican monk/ university professor Giovan Battista Embriaco and uses the force of the water to push the pendelum.
Casina del Lago – restaurant/ cafe tucked in the park.
Cinema dei Piccoli – the smallest theater in the world.

For more things to do in the park, here is list.

Hidden Rome Spot #8: Casina delle Civette in Villa Torlonia

Casina delle Civette (translated as “House of the little Owls”) is hidden inside the gardens of Villa Torlonia. The Casina was commissioned by the last descendant of the Roman noble family, Giovanni Torlonia. Nicknamed the “Swiss Hut”, it was designed as a little retreat from the main house with a medieval theme.

Location: Villa Torlonia, Via Nomentana, 70, 00161 Roma RM, Italy
Hours: Tues-Sunday 9AM-7PM, Monday Closed
Admission: €4 – €6

Hidden Rome Spot #9: Borghetto Flaminio Market

For those that love vintage designer finds, Borghetto Flaminio Market is for you. Here you can expect to find everything from vintage scarves, to bags, to clothing.

Location: Piazza della Marina, 32, 00196 Roma RM, Italy
Hours: Sundays 10AM- 7PM
Admission: €2
Pro Tip: Don’t forget to bring a decent amount of cash as almost every stall is cash only (and of course don’t forget to haggle)!
While in the area: Grab breakfast at the historic Bondolfi Boncaffe located on Via Flaminia.

Hidden Rome Spot #10: Pyramid of Cestius

Located one metro stop from the Colosseum is the Pyramid of Cestius. Built in between 18–12 BC as the tomb of Gaius Cestius, it features Roman architecture and is one of the best-preserved Roman monuments.