Rome in October: Opinions solicited
Sep 8th, 2008, 12:54 PM
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Rome in October: Opinions solicited
I have been to Italy many times but as a freshly-minted divorcee, I will be traveling alone for the first time. FYI: I am on the south side of my mid-50s and am staying at the Hilton Cavallieri just because I got a free room on points. I already know I will have to rely on the shuttle or cabs to get me to and from the city Center. I have 3 days in Rome and would love to hear your opinions and advice as to tours and restaurants that might be appropriate and fun for a single traveler. Any suggestions for restaurants where I would be comfortable dining solo and tours for someone who has already (but just once) been to the Vatican and other major destinations in Rome? Thanks.
Sep 8th, 2008, 01:23 PM
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Bonster--
I think all of the restaurants I've described in this thread are suitable for single diners:
http://www.fodors.com/forums/threads...p;tid=35149468
In particular try Taverna dei Fori Imperiali. They are so friendly you won't feel at all awkward. I'm sure you'll have a great trip. Congratulations on setting off alone!
I think all of the restaurants I've described in this thread are suitable for single diners:
http://www.fodors.com/forums/threads...p;tid=35149468
In particular try Taverna dei Fori Imperiali. They are so friendly you won't feel at all awkward. I'm sure you'll have a great trip. Congratulations on setting off alone!
Sep 8th, 2008, 01:34 PM
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I understand that you are using points but, as one who has traveled solo to Rome and other spots in Europe, I would much rather stay in a place that was in a convenient neighborhood great for walking around, dining, etc. The Hilton will be many business travelers and not nearly as enjoyable for a solo traveler.
There are inexpensive options that are safe and well located, if you are open to that. With just three days, you will be quite limited by the location of your hotel. JMHO based on personal experience. When I travel solo, it is even more important to me that the place I choose to stay in makes me feel at home.
There are inexpensive options that are safe and well located, if you are open to that. With just three days, you will be quite limited by the location of your hotel. JMHO based on personal experience. When I travel solo, it is even more important to me that the place I choose to stay in makes me feel at home.
Sep 8th, 2008, 01:37 PM
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I have spent a lot of time in Rome by myself and have never found a restaurant that wasn't OK for a single traveler.
I have to agree about the Hilton location, though. I understand having to use Hilton points, as I have done so, but never in Rome because of that location. For only three nights, is there any way you could afford to stay closer to the center? So much nicer to be near the Piazza Navona, with dozens of restaurants nearby, walkable to many things, good bus connections.
I have to agree about the Hilton location, though. I understand having to use Hilton points, as I have done so, but never in Rome because of that location. For only three nights, is there any way you could afford to stay closer to the center? So much nicer to be near the Piazza Navona, with dozens of restaurants nearby, walkable to many things, good bus connections.
Sep 8th, 2008, 02:22 PM
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Kfusto
Thank you so much for this input. In booking the Hilton Cavalilier, I opted for security and free room over location. I appreciate your "humble" opinion and welcome more! I just sent an email to the Hotel Panda to consider a change to a better location. But, given my two weaknesses (Dollar and Divorce) I may just stick with the free room.
Thank you so much for this input. In booking the Hilton Cavalilier, I opted for security and free room over location. I appreciate your "humble" opinion and welcome more! I just sent an email to the Hotel Panda to consider a change to a better location. But, given my two weaknesses (Dollar and Divorce) I may just stick with the free room.
Sep 8th, 2008, 03:44 PM
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Two museums that I love which are a tiny bit off the beaten track are the Galleria Doria Pamphilj: http://www.doriapamphilj.it/ukhome.asp. Get the audio guide. The tourguide is very funny. The other place is the Villa Farnesina: http://www.lincei.it/modules.php?nam...age&pid=27.
I think you'll be happy anywhere since Rome is such a friendly lively city. If you aren't up for the full restaurant dinner every night (although with 3 nights I would probably manage to pack in some great food), getting a drink at an outdoor cafe and then just a pizza or sandwich later is very pleasant.
The weather should still be mild then. Last year I was in Rome in early October and it was warm - 70s or higher during the day. But that can vary.
I think you'll be happy anywhere since Rome is such a friendly lively city. If you aren't up for the full restaurant dinner every night (although with 3 nights I would probably manage to pack in some great food), getting a drink at an outdoor cafe and then just a pizza or sandwich later is very pleasant.
The weather should still be mild then. Last year I was in Rome in early October and it was warm - 70s or higher during the day. But that can vary.
Sep 8th, 2008, 04:10 PM
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This may be unsolicited, but you might enjoy reading "Eat, Pray, Love" before you go--at least the Eat section anyway.... 
I am not sure if she names the places where she eats in Rome, but it certainly gets you in the mood for the great Italian dishes.
I am not sure if she names the places where she eats in Rome, but it certainly gets you in the mood for the great Italian dishes.
Sep 8th, 2008, 05:06 PM
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If security is a big reason you're going with the Hilton, I don't think that's a good reason. In the last three years, I've spent 45 days in Rome over 6 trips and have never felt unsafe, and on 5 of those trips I stayed in apartment. I am your age and have always been by myself. I hope you will consider staying near the center, especially for such a short time!
Sep 8th, 2008, 11:34 PM
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The Cavalieri Hilton is a beautiful hotel, with a large pool and a breathtaking location. They have the very best Executive Lounge I have ever seen (practically a complimentary restaurant and full-stocked bar). They have a convenient shuttle bus into downtown. The ride takes 10 minutes.
The Hilton boasts the very best restaurant in Rome, La Pergola (three Michelin stars, however expensive).
If you are eating out, you should take a taxi back to the Hilton. Taxi fare should be around 12-15 Euros one way.
My personal favorite of a downtown restaurant with upscale cuisine is El Toula, right in the city center:
http://www.fodors.com/world/europe/i...iew-38441.html
It is a dining experience. Traditional ambiance.
The Hilton boasts the very best restaurant in Rome, La Pergola (three Michelin stars, however expensive).
If you are eating out, you should take a taxi back to the Hilton. Taxi fare should be around 12-15 Euros one way.
My personal favorite of a downtown restaurant with upscale cuisine is El Toula, right in the city center:
http://www.fodors.com/world/europe/i...iew-38441.html
It is a dining experience. Traditional ambiance.
Sep 9th, 2008, 04:27 AM
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I have not stayed at the Hilton because of the location but most posters comment on how very expensive it is to purchase food and drink. I have found this to be the same in most high end Rome hotels.
I traveled solo post divorce and IMO it would be a nicer experience to stay in a place that was totally accessible without having to plan around a shuttle schedule. Being spontaneous is a big part of the pleasure of visiting a vibrant city like Rome, IMO.
I do find my requirements when I travel solo are different from when I am accompanied and this would be a critical factor for me. Much of the pleasure I take in Rome is wandering about, discovering new places to have a coffee or a glass of wine and I would not want to be subject to a shuttle schedule nor have to make the trip back to the hotel when I just felt like a hot shower and some down time.
Bonster, I am sure you will have a wonderful visit wherever you stay but I would scrimp on the tours and meals in order to stay in the center and be free to enjoy your days exactly as you wish.
I traveled solo post divorce and IMO it would be a nicer experience to stay in a place that was totally accessible without having to plan around a shuttle schedule. Being spontaneous is a big part of the pleasure of visiting a vibrant city like Rome, IMO.
I do find my requirements when I travel solo are different from when I am accompanied and this would be a critical factor for me. Much of the pleasure I take in Rome is wandering about, discovering new places to have a coffee or a glass of wine and I would not want to be subject to a shuttle schedule nor have to make the trip back to the hotel when I just felt like a hot shower and some down time.
Bonster, I am sure you will have a wonderful visit wherever you stay but I would scrimp on the tours and meals in order to stay in the center and be free to enjoy your days exactly as you wish.
Sep 9th, 2008, 06:36 AM
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Traveling alone in Rome is a great experience - nothing new there since people have been doing it for about 3000 years!
Roman style trattoria dining will make you feel at home among other "singles".
Try Da Francesco in Piazza Fico (right near Piazza Navona) for good food in a social setting; diners sit at shared tables as is an Italian tradition. Here's some video of this ristorante:
http://www.webvisionitaly.com/catego...p;ref_item=187
I would plan to get into town early enough to enjoy the fresh market in Campo de' Fiori:
http://www.webvisionitaly.com/catego...p;ref_item=179
You'll be sure to smile with a drink on the roof of the Raphael hotel:
http://www.webvisionitaly.com/catego...p;ref_item=195
And have an after dinner drink at Mimi e Coco:
http://www.webvisionitaly.com/catego...p;ref_item=139
There is also a nice wine bar in the Piazza Farnese full of local professionals after work - about 7P.
Rome is a great choice for birth into new life. Centi anni!
Roman style trattoria dining will make you feel at home among other "singles".
Try Da Francesco in Piazza Fico (right near Piazza Navona) for good food in a social setting; diners sit at shared tables as is an Italian tradition. Here's some video of this ristorante:
http://www.webvisionitaly.com/catego...p;ref_item=187
I would plan to get into town early enough to enjoy the fresh market in Campo de' Fiori:
http://www.webvisionitaly.com/catego...p;ref_item=179
You'll be sure to smile with a drink on the roof of the Raphael hotel:
http://www.webvisionitaly.com/catego...p;ref_item=195
And have an after dinner drink at Mimi e Coco:
http://www.webvisionitaly.com/catego...p;ref_item=139
There is also a nice wine bar in the Piazza Farnese full of local professionals after work - about 7P.
Rome is a great choice for birth into new life. Centi anni!
Sep 9th, 2008, 02:18 PM
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I have taken all your advice to heart.
I just re-booked from the Hilton Cavallieri to the Nicolas Inn for 3 nights.
I still solicit advice for restaurants and places to go/sights to see.
I just re-booked from the Hilton Cavallieri to the Nicolas Inn for 3 nights.
I still solicit advice for restaurants and places to go/sights to see.
Sep 10th, 2008, 04:14 AM
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Bonster, I think you will be very happy with your choice!
Close to your hotel is a Il Gabriello on Via Vittoria 51. It is a bustling little place I happened upon about 6 years when in Rome and I go back every time I am in the area. Good food, nice owner (Claudio)and an upbeat atmosphere.
I also really enjoy Trastevere and can highly recommended Mane e Pasta, a delightful seafood and pasta restaurant. The swordfish carpaccio with a drizzle of truffle oil is simply wonderful!
La Cabonara is a traditional Roman trattoria that sits on the sqaure at Campo di Fiori. You can get a table outside and people watch for hours. Great antipasto bar, friendly service and nicely prepared food. When solo, I enjoy sitting at an enoteca and enjoying a glass or two of wine with some cheeses and olives before dinner or as a late lunch. And there are some lovely rooftop bars where the view is beautiful. What time of year are you visiting? If you are there when my small group is, you could join us on some of our private tours.
We are on our way to Italy in 3 weeks so will be heading back to all of these places and cannot wait!
Are you headed to Florence as well?
Close to your hotel is a Il Gabriello on Via Vittoria 51. It is a bustling little place I happened upon about 6 years when in Rome and I go back every time I am in the area. Good food, nice owner (Claudio)and an upbeat atmosphere.
I also really enjoy Trastevere and can highly recommended Mane e Pasta, a delightful seafood and pasta restaurant. The swordfish carpaccio with a drizzle of truffle oil is simply wonderful!
La Cabonara is a traditional Roman trattoria that sits on the sqaure at Campo di Fiori. You can get a table outside and people watch for hours. Great antipasto bar, friendly service and nicely prepared food. When solo, I enjoy sitting at an enoteca and enjoying a glass or two of wine with some cheeses and olives before dinner or as a late lunch. And there are some lovely rooftop bars where the view is beautiful. What time of year are you visiting? If you are there when my small group is, you could join us on some of our private tours
.We are on our way to Italy in 3 weeks so will be heading back to all of these places and cannot wait!
Are you headed to Florence as well?
Sep 10th, 2008, 01:45 PM
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You are so kind to ask! I appreciate the additional tips. Yes, I am going to Florence after Rome for cooking school with Giuliano Bugiali. I have spent a good deal of time in Florence (I actually lived there for 2 months years ago) and know I will be happy and comfortable there.
I even just extended my stay in Rome to 4 nights because there is still so much for me to see and do there. And, the hosts of the Nicolas Inn could not be nicer or more helpful in their email messages. The advice you gave to skip the Hilton was great. Actually, the new hotel will probably cost just a bit more than I would have spent in cabs and expensive meals at the Hilton. Breakfast is 38 euro!
I even just extended my stay in Rome to 4 nights because there is still so much for me to see and do there. And, the hosts of the Nicolas Inn could not be nicer or more helpful in their email messages. The advice you gave to skip the Hilton was great. Actually, the new hotel will probably cost just a bit more than I would have spent in cabs and expensive meals at the Hilton. Breakfast is 38 euro!
Sep 16th, 2008, 07:10 AM
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kfusto,
We will be in Rome 10/22-10/24, and again 11/3-11/6. Any chance that would be during your trip? We are stressing over Alitalia at this moment, eating up my research time. We have not yet booked a room for the first two nights, though I had hoped we could stay near Piazza Navona. The later part I pricelined the Intercontinent for 3 nights, and a B&B, Your Nest in Rome, in Trastavere, for the final, to be on the other side of the river for a hopefully, early AM flight.
We will be in Rome 10/22-10/24, and again 11/3-11/6. Any chance that would be during your trip? We are stressing over Alitalia at this moment, eating up my research time. We have not yet booked a room for the first two nights, though I had hoped we could stay near Piazza Navona. The later part I pricelined the Intercontinent for 3 nights, and a B&B, Your Nest in Rome, in Trastavere, for the final, to be on the other side of the river for a hopefully, early AM flight.
