The Tennis Traveler: Top 5 things to do in Rome

The first thing people will tell you about Rome is to go see the Colosseum and visit the Vatican. The second is to try the pizza.

We’re here to not only add to that list but reveal insider tips so that you can return to those people bragging—not about the architecture of the Colosseum or the cheesiness of the pizza—about the unique finds that they had never even heard of.

So before you board the flight to Rome for the Internazionali BNL d'Italia, a combined 1000-level tournament, take in Baseline's following top 5 things to do.

1. The Dome, The Mouth & The Keyhole

Painted between 1685 and 1694, The Dome Illusion in the Church of Saint Ignacio deceives church-goers to this day. When plans to build an actual dome atop the church fell through, painter Andrea Pozzo proposed an illusionary solution.

Just 20 minutes from the dome is The Mouth of Truth, said to bite the hands of liars. There are many theories as to how this came to be, but the original lie detector continues to be a superstitious face in Rome.

Make sure to make a reservation for this next one, as The Aventine Keyhole sits in a garden that can be visited by appointment only. The keyhole perfectly lines up with the Vatican in the distance. No one knows whether this was a planned gem or a coincidental find, but the history provides rich insight into 18^th century Rome.

2. Carbon My Ara

Contrary to popular belief, Rome isn’t the spot for pizza in Italy. Although regarded for pizza al taglio (pizza by the slice), there are a range of delicacies for both a sweet and savory tooth.

Pasta-wise, carbonara and cacio e pepe are two widely iconic Roman delights. Lesser-known savory foods are 1) allesso di bollito, simmered-beef sandwiches found in the Testaccio Market, 2) porchetta, slow roasted pig, 3) supplì, stuffed rice croquettes cooked with tomato sauces, and  4) trapizzino, which was invented only in 2009 and has quickly become a local favorite.

No foodie leaves Rome without a trip to the Jewish Quarter, where the part-crispy, part-creamy fried artichoke has been perfected. This sought after bite is in nearly every restaurant here. So with the little room left in your stomach, make your way to this quarter before your last night’s stay.

On the sweeter side of Roman life, head to Regoli, the historic bakery that serves maritozzi, sweet breakfast buns filed with whipped cream. And since you’re starting your day on the sweeter side, you might as well end the day with gelato, which you can’t go wrong with (we won’t judge if you also have some as a midday snack).

3. Villa Pamphili

Even though the Internazionali BNP d’Italia is happening well before peak tourist season, visitors from all over the world crowd every well-known landmark in Rome.

Lucky for you, there’s a lesser-known garden oasis on the east side of the River Tiber that is practically tourist-free. Villa Doria Pamphili is an underrated park filled with nature reserves, gardens, landmarks, and picnic areas.

The park also hosts live entertainment and training courses for the theater. Engulfed in this approximately 10 km escape, you might just forget about the tennis tournament let alone your orientation in Rome.

4. Cinema on the Island

L’Isola del Cinema, aka Cinema Island, is a celebration of both international and Italian films.

Since 1995, the Tiber Island has hosted the International Film and Culture Festival. Located between the Trastevere district and the Jewish Ghetto, the festival sees roughly 250,000 visitors a year and shows nearly 200 films.

The festival lasts for 80 days, and true to the “festival” title, offers more than outdoor movie showings. There are craft stands and food stalls and events with renowned guests and exhibitions.

A breezy stroll in the evening could lead to a traditional Roman celebration of cinema.

5. Designer Deals

Shopping and traveling practically go hand in hand, but that doesn’t mean spending hundreds more on every day finds.

Mercato della Città Ecosolidarietà is an eco-friendly vintage market that offer more subtle bargain browsing than the better-known Port a Portese Market. Not only are the deals just as competitive, but you’d be supporting a community-led initiative to reduce waste culture. This market is affiliated with the Community oof Sant’Egidio which is spreading awareness and impact across many countries.

From toys to clothes to accessories – even furniture, for those brave enough to handle international shipping – you can find unique Roman souvenirs, gifts, and memorable finds in this market.

Keep in mind that the market isn’t open every day of the week when you’re building your Rome travel itinerary.