An insider’s guide to Rome, Italy

Gianluigi Varchetta, sales representative at Singapore Airlines’ Rome office, shares his top picks of the venerable city’s historic sights, traditional eats and more

Getting around

RomaPass is the special tourist card that you can use for discounted travel on the city’s public transport network, along with other perks. The pass gives you free entry to two museums and/or archaeological sites, along with discounted tickets to exhibitions and other events held at the Colosseum, Castel Sant’ Angelo and Musei Capitolini. That being said, the best way to get around the city is on foot. Rome’s attractions are within good walking distance of one another, which gives you the chance to explore hidden alleys along the way.

Dine with Italians

Grab a quick snack in a casual setting at Dar Filettaro, which serves a mean Filetti di Baccala – fried, salted cod fillet – that’s a favourite among locals. For something heartier, head to Trattoria Vecchia Roma for an array of traditional pasta (above). Its Amatriciana (a spicy tomato-based pasta) and Pasta alla Gricia (pasta with black pepper, cured pork jowl and pecorino romano cheese) are highly recommended.

A post shared by trattoria vecchia roma (@trattoria_vecchia_roma) on Feb 24, 2017 at 8:38am PST

Designer spree

Widely regarded as Italy’s most elegant department store, La Rinascente recently opened its second flagship store (below) at Via del Tritone. It offers shoppers a selection of over 800 brands, including luxury labels such as Fendi and Balenciaga. Those with a penchant for high fashion – but not the hefty price tags – should check out Castel Romano Designer Outlet for luxury designer goods at steep discounts.

Lovers’ secrets

Undoubtedly one of the most romantic spots in Rome, the Janiculum rises from behind the neighbourhood of Trastevere. The view from the top of this hill stretches over roofs, ancient ruins, monuments and Baroque domes. My favourite atmospheric place is Ponte Sant’Angelo (below). Strolling across the bridge – which is flanked on both sides by statues of angels – at sunset yields spectacular views of the Tiber and beyond.

Relic hunter

Start your historical tour of Rome at the ancient amphitheatre, the Colosseum, then stroll through Via del Corso to Piazza del Popolo. Along the way, stop by the 15th-century Trevi Fountain and Galleria Doria Pamphilj. To peruse over 400 sculptures, visit Centrale Montemartini (below), which occupies a former thermoelectric power plant.