Piazza Navona
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About
Built on the site of the Stadium of Domitian, this elegant plaza preserves the elliptical shape of ancient Roman athletic contests. It is the quintessential Baroque square, dominated by Bernini’s Fountain of the Four Rivers and Borromini’s Sant'Agnese in Agone. The atmosphere is vibrant, filled with street artists, musicians, and terrace cafes. Expert recommendation: visit the underground ruins of the original stadium (Stadio di Domiziano) located below the street level. Pro tip: while the cafes on the square are perfect for people-watching, they are overpriced for meals; grab a gelato nearby at Frigidarium and enjoy it while admiring the central obelisk.
Highlights
- Bernini's Four Rivers Fountain
- Baroque architectural oval
- Street artists and performers
- Stadium of Domitian history
Amenities
Nearby Attractions
Cul de Sac
Established in 1977 as Rome's first wine bar (enoteca), Cul de Sac features an incredible wine list with over 1,500 labels. The narrow interior is lined with floor-to-ceiling wine racks, and the communal marble tables encourage a social atmosphere. The menu offers a mix of Roman specialties and international pates and cheeses. Expert recommendation: their 'Trippa alla Romana' and the lentil soup are excellent, paired with a glass of regional Cesanese wine. Pro tip: located just behind Piazza Navona, it’s a perfect spot for an late-night glass of wine and a platter of cold cuts. They do not take reservations, so arrive early or be prepared to wait with a glass in hand.
Frigidarium
Located on one of Rome's most charming streets near Piazza Navona, Frigidarium is known for its high-quality natural ingredients and its signature chocolate dip. After picking your flavors, they can dip the entire cone into a vat of white or dark chocolate, which hardens into a crunchy shell. The sensory experience is a decadent mix of creamy gelato and snapping chocolate. Expert recommendation: the 'Frigidarium' flavor (caramel and cookies) is their bestseller. Pro tip: the line often stretches down the street, but it moves quickly. Grab your gelato and walk two minutes to Piazza Navona to enjoy it by the fountains.
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All’Antico Vinaio (Rome)
The legendary Florentine sandwich shop has brought its massive, stuffed 'schiacciata' bread to the capital. Located right behind the Pantheon, the shop is a whirlwind of slicing meats and spreading creams. The sensory experience is dominated by the smell of freshly baked bread and truffle oil. Expert recommendation: the 'La Favolosa' (sbriciolona meat, pecorino cream, artichoke cream, and spicy eggplant) is what made them famous. Pro tip: prepare to wait in a long line, but the sandwiches are huge enough to share between two people, making it one of the best value gourmet lunches in the historic center.
Campo de' Fiori
By day, this square hosts a vibrant market selling fresh produce, spices, and flowers; by night, it becomes a popular social hub for students and travelers. In its center stands the brooding statue of philosopher Giordano Bruno, who was executed here for heresy in 1600. The sensory experience is dominated by the shouts of market vendors and the scent of fresh 'pizza bianca' from nearby bakeries. Expert recommendation: buy a bag of authentic 'Penne all'Arrabbiata' spice mix to take home. Pro tip: the market is best visited before noon; after the stalls close, the square is cleaned, making it a great spot for an afternoon aperitivo, though dining here is generally tourist-oriented.
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