Antico Caffè Greco
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About
Founded in 1760, this is the second oldest cafe in Italy and has hosted legends like Casanova, Goethe, and Keats. The interior is a museum in itself, with red velvet chairs, marble tables, and over 300 works of art. The atmosphere is one of hushed, historic luxury amidst the high-fashion boutiques of Via dei Condotti. Expert recommendation: order a 'Caffè' and a small pastry. Pro tip: there is a significant price difference between standing at the bar (cheap) and sitting at the tables (very expensive 'service' fee). If you want the historic experience without the 15-euro coffee, stand at the bar and soak in the 18th-century vibes.
Highlights
- Oldest coffee house in Rome
- Historic literary heritage
- Elegant period decor
- Fine Italian pastries
Amenities
Nearby Attractions
Ginger Sapori e Salute
A refreshing departure from heavy pasta and pizza, Ginger focuses on 'wellness' through high-quality organic produce, exotic fruit platters, and sustainably sourced meats. The interior is bright, white, and airy, feeling more like a modern Californian bistro than a traditional Roman eatery. It is located on one of the city's most beautiful shopping streets. Expert recommendation: their massive fruit smoothies and the 'Gourmet Salads' are perfect for a light lunch. Pro tip: they are open all day from breakfast until late night, making it an excellent fallback option when other restaurants are closed between lunch and dinner. It’s very popular with the fashion crowd, so expect a short wait during peak hours.
Keats-Shelley House
Located in the very house where John Keats died in 1821, this museum is a shrine to the British Romantic poets who were captivated by Italy. The wood-paneled rooms contain original manuscripts, letters, and death masks. The atmosphere is quiet and evocative, providing a poignant contrast to the bustling Spanish Steps just outside the window. Expert recommendation: spend time in the library, which holds over 8,000 volumes of Romantic literature. Pro tip: the view of the Spanish Steps from the museum windows is one of the most unique in the city. It’s a small museum, so 45–60 minutes is usually sufficient for a visit.
Pastificio Guerra
Since 1918, this historic pasta shop near the Spanish Steps has been a savior for budget travelers and busy locals. Every day, they offer two types of freshly made pasta in plastic containers for a remarkably low price (usually around 4-5 Euros). There are no tables; people simply stand at the small counters inside or eat on the street. Expert recommendation: they usually have one classic meat-based pasta and one vegetarian option. Pro tip: the price often includes a small cup of water or wine. It's the fastest and cheapest 'real' meal in the high-rent district. Look for the crowd of people standing outside around 1:00 PM to find the entrance.
Spanish Steps
Connecting the Piazza di Spagna with the Trinità dei Monti church, these 135 steps were built in 1723 to celebrate the peace between France and Spain. The area became a cultural hub for the Romantic poets, including Keats and Shelley. The atmosphere is one of refined elegance, especially in spring when the steps are draped in blooming pink azaleas. At the base lies Bernini’s 'Barcaccia' fountain. Experts recommend climbing to the top for a stunning sunset view over the rooftops of Via dei Condotti. Pro tip: sitting on the steps is now strictly prohibited by law and monitored by police; keep moving to avoid fines while enjoying the high-fashion window shopping nearby.
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