Italy

Rome

Stunning art, breathtaking architecture, unforgettable monuments and savory dishes – Rome is truly a feast for the senses. Rome contains as many perfect backdrops for romance as it does churches and ancient ruins. Explore centuries-old piazzas, charming gelaterias filled with tables for two, and the ruins at sunset. Rome – a city of ancient history, art, beauty, delicious food and fashion, but above all, love and romance… there is no better destination in Italy for a perfect honeymoon.

When it comes to honeymooning in a city, it is hard to beat Rome, one of the first metropolises in world history. Founded in 753 B.C., it‘s easy to recognize why Italy’s capital is also called the Eternal City. Being rebuilt by its own ruins is a symbol of strength and immortality, two words that can also describe the beginning of a life together. This city has been around for ages, influencing art, fashion and food, and there’s a little something for everyone there.

For the historians, stops at Rome’s legendary landmarks – the Colosseum, the Spanish Steps and the Sistine Chapel – should definitely be on the agenda, but don’t forget about the hidden gems: hire a private tour guide and venture where few tourists set foot, gaining inside access to centuries-old palaces and museums. Foodies will love learning how to make their own Bellini and taste-testing gelato. Looking for more action? Learn the moves of the gladiators with trained fighters at Rome’s Gladiatorial School and take home a certificate proving your new combat skills. Honeymooners simply must make a visit to the Ponte Milvio, Rome’s oldest bridge. Add your padlock, joining those of many young lovers before you. This ‘love lock’ will symbolize your affection for each other. Lock it up and throw away the key into the Tevere River below!

There is no better place to work up an appetite than in Rome. Celebrate your new marriage with a romantic date night at the three-Michelin-starred La Pergola. Helmed by celebrated chef Heinz Beck, enjoy a mind-blowing five-course dinner that begins with 29 choices of water and ends with mini desserts. For a casual night out, head to one of the cozy pasta joints for authentic Italian.

With a pleasant Mediterranean climate and loads of history, it’s no wonder all roads lead to the Eternal City. Wander the historic streets, enjoy long lunches in the intimate cafes, and share a kiss at one of the fountains as you toss in a coin and make a wish for your future. Rome, with all its history and romance, is a city that inspires lust… and a city that inspires lust is the perfect destination for a honeymoon.

About Rome

At a Glance

  • SHOP TIL YOU DROP: Head to the Spanish Steps to peruse some high-end boutiques. Check out the leather goods, bright-colored ties, beautiful stationary and the brilliant fashion Italy is internationally known for.
  • HANG WITH ST. PETER: Vatican City, the world’s smallest sovereign independent state, is a marvel in itself, but make sure you take some time to tour St. Peter’s Square and Basilica. Enjoy Michelangelo’s masterpieces, including the Sistine Chapel.
  • MAKE A WISH: The Fontana di Trevi (Trevi Fountain) is the largest Baroque fountain in Rome, and one of the most beautiful in the world. While discovering the city, enjoy a break here. And don’t forget your change – legend has it that visitors who throw coins in the fountain are ensured a return to Rome!
  • DISCOVER THE HISTORY: Located just east of the Roman Forum sits the massive stone amphitheater known as the Colosseum. In centuries past, the Colosseum was used for gladiatorial combats and wild animal fights. Now, the amphitheater is a popular tourist destination and an iconic symbol of Rome. Enjoy a walk through history while you admire the arched entryways and stone corbels.
  • THE ROMAN PANTHEON: Considered an architectural wonder due to its perfect dome, the Roman Pantheon is the most preserved and influential building of ancient Rome. Built as a Roman temple dedicated to all gods of pagan Rome, the Pantheon in its present state allows us a glimpse into the stunning world of ancient Roman architecture.
  • A DATE AT THE THEATER: Rome has a number of theaters throughout the city. Enjoy the incredible world of imagination with a night at a show.
  • BECOME A FOODIE: Make sure you pack some elastic pants – the food in Rome is to die for. Do not deprive yourself of its culinary delights. Taste everything – the wine, cappuccinos, the pizza, the pasta and don’t forget the creamy gelato!

Honeymoon Hints

  • WHEN TO GO: April through June and late September through October are wonderful times to visit Italy. You’ll not only miss the summer tourist rush of July through September, but also the higher prices of the high season.
  • TIPPING: Tipping is customary in Italy. 15% is often automatically included in restaurant bills.
  • VATICAN CITY: Make sure you plan a half-day visit to Vatican City, if not longer. It really is one of the places you should visit before you die. Expect long lines, especially during the summer months.
  • TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS: When traveling to Rome, and Italy in general, a passport valid for three months beyond the length of stay and issues within the past 10 years is required. Visas are not required for those from Canada and the United States.

Travel Tips

  • HOW TO GET THERE: Italy’s main airports for international arrivals are ‘Leonardo da Vinci’ (Rome Fiumicino) and Malpensa (Milan).
  • TRAVELING IN ITALY: Traveling around Italy once you arrive is easy. Thanks so a wide range of flights and airlines that operate in the country, air travel within Italy is a breeze. However, it’s also possible to travel by train, sea and by driving the extensive motorway network.