Archive for 'Latium'

Rome may be home to the Pope and the centre of Catholicism but it is also the capital of Italy and a major urban area. As a result, there are plenty of people of all sorts of faiths in the city and, in particular, the city is home to one of the world’s oldest Jewish populations who have remained despite the various efforts to force them out throughout history, so if you were considering spending the Holidays in Italy then you might be glad to know that it is not only a wonderful place for those who celebrate Christmas, with all sorts Christmas-themed things to see and do, but it is also a wonderful place to spend Hanukkah. While the general cheer and excitement of lights, markets, good food, and shopping can be enjoyed universally and make a vacation in Rome all the more wonderful, picturesque, and enjoyable during the winter, there are also specific events and attractions pertaining to those who are of the Jewish faith that will make a trip in the city at this time all the more memorable and meaningful. So, if you want to do something different for Hanukkah this year but don’t want to miss out on tradition, then Rome really is a perfect place to spend the Holidays in Italy. Here are some of the main things to keep an eye out for...

Those who browse our incredible vacation rentals in Rome and decide to spend the festive period in the city will quickly realise that there is no better time to visit. As a major seat of Catholicism, it is no surprise that they go crazy for Christmas and, as a major world capital, there are plenty of folks celebrating other holidays too, ensuring that the festivities are well and truly under way and the holiday spirit is in the air. The streets absolutely come alive with lights that make the city’s famous monuments, like the Trevi Fountain and the Colosseum, and the endless pretty streets and squares throughout the historic centre of Rome all the more picturesque and lovely. Delicious seasonal treats can be found and enjoyed wherever you turn, whether you’re grabbing a pastry full of spice to go with a coffee as you sit out and watch the world go by or you are picking perfectly hearty favourites at meals. Excitement is well and truly palpable in the air. And, of course, German-style markets pop up throughout the city selling hand-crafted goods, local specialities, and perfect winter warmers to keep you toasty as you explore the Eternal City. However, if you’re browsing the various markets that can be found in Italy and Rome at this time of the year and you’re looking for something a little different and a little more special, then you should make a point to also head to the beloved Mercatino Giapponese, or Japanese Market.

If you are looking to plan a city break over the coming months and you are looking for a destination that perfectly combines beautiful surroundings with an unbelievable wealth of things to see and do (from museums to galleries, architectural gems, historic sites, activities, parks, and more), a great culinary scene, and also some excellent shopping, then the Eternal City is, without a doubt, one of the best options around. For a taste of that Dolce Vita, a vacation rental in Rome is just the thing, as it truly is a place that lives up to its name. Rome is always lovely, always fascinating, always a good idea, and always a perfect place to indulge in a bit of retail therapy. And, while there are plenty of interesting independent boutiques, elegant flagship stores for some of the world's best-loved labels, buzzing shopping streets, and more to be explored, a shopping trip is never complete without a visit to a local market. Wouldn't you know it? Rome happens to also have one of the best markets we've laid eyes on! A contemporary, well-oiled gem with the freshest of produce and some really cool traditional and new retailers, if you're planning a getaway in Rome and you're thoroughly exploring her shopping scene then you should definitely make time to visit the Nuovo Mercato di Testaccio, or Testaccio Market.

One of the best food markets in Rome today and home to some incredibly stylish shops, Testaccio Market in the Testaccio Quarter has been utterly transformed in recent years. Formerly shambolic and untidy, it is now a very smooth operation with a little bit of something for everyone and just lots to see...and eat! Among the oldest markets in the city and a neighbourhood fixture for over 80 years, Testaccio Market was moved to its current location back in 2012 and, with the move, became the more orderly beast that it is today. Glass-covered, bright, clean, and charming, the market is made up of nearly one hundred different stalls and retailers, many of which have been run by the same families for generations.