Travel Channel in Italy: 5 Spots From the Video

Researched by Varedelo

Planning notes for Rome

Must-try foods in Rome

• Maritozzo
  MaritozzoA fluffy, brioche-style bun sliced open and overflowing with freshly whipped unsweetened cream. While historically a breakfast staple, 2026 has seen a surge in 'gourmet maritozzi' featuring seasonal fruit compotes, pistachio crumbles, or even savory versions stuffed with burrata and anchovies, popularized by new-wave bakeries like Forno Ritorno.
• Supplì al Telefono
  Supplì al TelefonoRome's essential street food: a fried rice ball simmered in beef ragù with a heart of mozzarella. The name 'al telefono' refers to the string of melted cheese that stretches like a telephone cord when pulled apart. Modern iterations in neighborhoods like Trastevere now feature creative fillings like cacio e pepe or spicy 'nduja.
• Tonnarelli Cacio e Pepe
  Tonnarelli Cacio e PepeA masterpiece of minimalism using only Pecorino Romano, toasted black pepper, and starchy pasta water. Locals look for the 'cremina'—the perfect emulsified sauce. For 2026, many trendy trattorias are serving it in a hollowed-out wheel of pecorino or using handmade tonnarelli (square-cut egg pasta) for a more rustic texture.
• Carciofi alla Giudia
  Carciofi alla GiudiaA Jewish-Roman classic consisting of whole artichokes seasoned with salt and pepper and deep-fried twice until the leaves become as crisp as potato chips while the heart remains tender. It remains the most iconic dish of the Roman Ghetto, especially during the spring harvest.
• Trapizzino
  TrapizzinoA modern Roman icon that has become a global export. It is a triangular pocket of thick, charred pizza bianca dough stuffed with slow-cooked traditional Roman stews, such as 'pollo alla cacciatora' (hunter-style chicken) or 'coda alla vaccinara' (oxtail stew). It bridges the gap between ancient recipes and 21st-century street food convenience.
• Pizza al Taglio (Roman Pan Pizza)
  Pizza al Taglio (Roman Pan Pizza)Rectangular pizza baked in large trays and sold by weight (cut with scissors). Unlike the thin 'Scrocchiarella' round pizza, this version is airy and light with a long-fermented dough. 2026 hotspots like Inferno Pizza Bar and Frumentario are pushing boundaries with toppings like pumpkin cream, porchetta, or caramelized figs.

Trip guide

• About Rome
  About RomeRome is a city with a documented history spanning over 2,700 years, established according to tradition in 753 BCE. Its historical heritage includes the remains of the Roman Empire, such as the Colosseum, an amphitheater built in 70-80 CE for public spectacles, and the Roman Forum, which served as the city's central administrative and commercial hub.
• When to go
  When to goThe best time to visit Rome is during the spring (April to June) or autumn (September to October), when the weather is mild and pleasant for walking. While summer brings intense heat and heavy tourist crowds, the winter months offer lower prices and shorter lines, though some days can be chilly and rainy. For the ideal balance of manageable crowds and comfortable temperatures, aim for the shoulder seasons of May or October.
• Getting around
  Getting around Rome

  • International Flights to Fiumicino (FCO) The Leonardo da Vinci–Fiumicino Airport serves as the primary gateway, connected to the city center via the Leonardo Express non-stop train reaching Termini Station in 32 minutes.
  • Rome Metro and Urban Rail The ATAC subway system features lines A, B, and C, providing efficient access to major landmarks like the Colosseum and Vatican City while avoiding the city's heavy surface traffic.
  • Extensive Bus and Tram Network A comprehensive network of orange and silver buses covers areas the Metro cannot reach, operating 24/7 with night routes and integrated ticketing valid for all public transit modes.
• Local tips
  Local tips

  • Validate your public transport tickets immediately upon boarding to avoid heavy fines from inspectors.
  • Order coffee standing at the bar to pay the standard local price rather than a significantly higher table service fee.
  • Carry a reusable water bottle to fill for free at the 'nasoni' public fountains found throughout the city.
• What’s new
  What’s new in Rome

  • The official introduction of a €2 entry fee for the Trevi Fountain basin (effective Feb 2026) to manage tourism crowds.
  • The opening of two new 'museum stations' on the Metro C line, Colosseo and Porta Metronia, featuring ancient artifacts found during excavation.