Rome is often associated with its rich history, iconic landmarks, and bustling streets. But for young people looking to unwind and experience the city at a more leisurely pace, Rome offers plenty of relaxing activities. Whether you’re traveling solo, with friends, or on a romantic getaway, here’s a guide to the most relaxing things to do in Rome in 2024.
1. Stroll Through Villa Borghese Gardens
Overview: Villa Borghese is Rome’s central park, offering a peaceful retreat from the city’s hustle and bustle. The park is expansive, with beautiful gardens, shaded paths, and serene lakes, making it a perfect spot for a leisurely day.
Relaxing Activities:
- Picnicking: Grab some local snacks, a bottle of wine, and enjoy a picnic on the grassy lawns.
- Boat Ride: Rent a rowboat on the lake and drift lazily while soaking in the tranquil surroundings.
- Visit the Galleria Borghese: While more art-focused, the museum offers a calm environment to appreciate masterpieces in a quiet setting.
Tips:
- The park is ideal for cycling, so consider renting a bike to explore its vast area.
- Head to the Pincio Terrace for a stunning sunset view over Rome.
2. Enjoy a Coffee at a Historic Café
Overview: Rome is known for its café culture, and there’s nothing more relaxing than sitting at a historic café, sipping on a cappuccino or an espresso, and watching the world go by.
Relaxing Cafés:
- Caffè Greco: Located near the Spanish Steps, this is one of the oldest cafes in Rome. Its historic interiors and prime location make it a perfect spot for a relaxing break.
- Sant’Eustachio Il Caffè: Famous for its secret coffee blend, this café near the Pantheon is a must-visit for coffee lovers.
Tips:
- Don’t rush your coffee; take your time and enjoy the experience.
- Pair your coffee with a local pastry like a cornetto (Italian croissant) for the full Roman café experience.
3. Explore the Trastevere Neighborhood
Overview: Trastevere is one of Rome’s most charming and laid-back neighborhoods. Known for its narrow, cobblestone streets, colorful buildings, and vibrant yet relaxed atmosphere, Trastevere is a perfect area to explore at a slow pace.
Relaxing Activities:
- Wander the Streets: Get lost in the winding alleys, discovering hidden courtyards, quaint shops, and local street art.
- Enjoy an Aperitivo: In the early evening, find a cozy bar and enjoy an aperitivo (pre-dinner drink) with friends. It’s a quintessential Roman experience.
- Visit the Botanical Garden: Escape to the Orto Botanico, a peaceful garden tucked away in Trastevere, where you can unwind among a variety of plant species.
Tips:
- Visit the Basilica of Santa Maria in Trastevere, one of the oldest churches in Rome, for a quiet moment of reflection.
- Trastevere is lively at night, so it’s great for a relaxing evening stroll with plenty of options for a casual dinner.
4. Spend a Day at the Baths of Caracalla
Overview: The Baths of Caracalla were once among the largest and most opulent public baths in ancient Rome. Today, they stand as impressive ruins, offering a unique and serene place to explore and relax.
Relaxing Activities:
- Explore the Ruins: Wander through the vast remains of the baths, imagining the grandeur of the past while enjoying the peaceful atmosphere.
- Yoga or Meditation: The expansive grounds are perfect for a quiet yoga session or meditation, especially in the early morning.
Tips:
- Check if there are any evening events or concerts, as the baths occasionally host cultural events that add to the ambiance.
- Bring a good book or journal; the serene surroundings make it a perfect spot for some reflective writing or reading.
5. Visit the Aventine Hill and the Orange Garden
Overview: The Aventine Hill is one of Rome’s seven hills and is known for its peaceful, residential vibe. It’s less crowded than other tourist spots, making it an ideal place to unwind.
Relaxing Activities:
- Giardino degli Aranci (Orange Garden): This small, well-kept garden offers stunning views of the city. It’s a perfect spot to relax on a bench, enjoy the view, and perhaps even catch a glimpse of St. Peter’s Basilica through the keyhole at the nearby Knights of Malta property.
- Basilica of Santa Sabina: Visit this ancient basilica for its serene atmosphere and beautiful early Christian mosaics.
Tips:
- Bring a camera to capture the panoramic views of Rome.
- The garden is particularly beautiful at sunset, so plan your visit accordingly.
6. Relax by the Tiber River
Overview: The Tiber River winds through the heart of Rome, offering a different perspective of the city. The riverside is a great place for a relaxed walk or bike ride, especially during the cooler parts of the day.
Relaxing Activities:
- Tiber Island: Take a walk across the bridges to Tiber Island, where you can enjoy a peaceful riverside stroll or sit and relax by the water.
- Summer Nights by the Tiber: In the summer, the riverside comes alive with pop-up bars, restaurants, and cultural events, offering a relaxed yet lively atmosphere.
Tips:
- Renting a bike is a great way to explore the riverside paths.
- In the evening, enjoy the street performers and local vendors along the riverbank.
7. Attend a Classical Music Concert
Overview: Rome is a city steeped in art and culture, and attending a classical music concert can be a deeply relaxing experience. There are numerous venues offering concerts, often in historic settings that add to the ambiance.
Relaxing Venues:
- Auditorium Parco della Musica: A modern concert hall with a varied program of classical music, jazz, and more.
- Churches: Many of Rome’s historic churches, such as Sant’Agnese in Agone and Sant’Andrea della Valle, host evening concerts, providing a serene atmosphere for enjoying classical music.
Tips:
- Check online or at local tourist information centers for schedules and tickets.
- Arrive early to get a good seat, especially in smaller venues.
8. Unwind at a Roman Spa
Overview: After days of exploring, a visit to a spa is the perfect way to relax and rejuvenate. Rome has several modern spas that offer a range of treatments, from massages to thermal baths, inspired by ancient Roman traditions.
Top Spas:
- QC Terme Roma: Located near the Fiumicino Airport, this luxury spa offers thermal baths, saunas, and a variety of relaxation treatments in a beautiful setting.
- AcquaMadre Hammam: Situated in the Jewish Ghetto, this spa offers traditional Hammam treatments, including steam baths and massages, in a calming environment.
Tips:
- Book treatments in advance, especially on weekends or holidays.
- Some spas offer day passes, allowing you to enjoy the facilities without committing to a specific treatment.
9. Experience a Wine Tasting Tour
Overview: Italy is renowned for its wine, and there’s no better place to indulge in a wine tasting experience than in Rome. Whether you prefer a guided tour through the city’s enotecas (wine bars) or a day trip to the nearby countryside, wine tasting is a relaxing and enjoyable activity.
Relaxing Wine Experiences:
- Wine Bars in Rome: Visit a local enoteca such as Il Goccetto or Cul de Sac for a relaxed wine tasting experience in the city.
- Day Trip to Frascati: Take a short trip to the Frascati region, known for its white wines, and enjoy a vineyard tour followed by a tasting session.
Tips:
- Pair your wine with local cheeses and cured meats for the full experience.
- Some wine bars offer informal classes or guided tastings, which can be a fun way to learn more about Italian wines.
10. Take a Cooking Class
Overview: For a more interactive and relaxing experience, consider taking a cooking class in Rome. It’s a great way to immerse yourself in Italian culture, learn new skills, and enjoy a delicious meal that you’ve prepared yourself.
Relaxing Cooking Experiences:
- Market to Table Classes: Start with a visit to a local market to pick out fresh ingredients, then head to the kitchen to prepare a traditional Italian meal.
- Pasta Making: Learn how to make pasta from scratch, a quintessential Italian culinary skill, and enjoy the fruits of your labor in a relaxed setting.
Tips:
- Classes often include wine pairings, making the experience even more enjoyable.
- Small group classes offer a more personalized experience, so look for those if you prefer a more intimate setting.
Conclusion
Rome isn’t just about ancient ruins and bustling tourist attractions; it’s also a city where you can slow down, relax, and enjoy life at a leisurely pace. Whether you’re exploring peaceful gardens, sipping coffee at a historic café, or unwinding with a glass of wine, these relaxing activities offer young people a chance to experience the calmer side of the Eternal City. In 2024, make sure to take time to indulge in these experiences, and you’ll leave Rome not just with memories of itsgrand architecture and historical significance, but also with a deep sense of relaxation and contentment.
Whether you’re a solo traveler, part of a group, or enjoying a romantic getaway, these activities will help you unwind and truly connect with the city’s laid-back lifestyle. So, slow down, savor each moment, and let Rome’s timeless charm envelop you in its warm embrace.
