Five unmissable experiences, if you want to feel like a real native during your Roman holidays
Our travel designs are like a dress sewn on you.
Do you wish to thoroughly immerse yourself in a place's culture when traveling? Do you enjoy the typical vacation with visits to well-known highlights, or do you want to gain an in-depth grasp of the location you're in and build a close connection with the locals?
If you answered ‘yes’to the second question, you've come to the right place to create a bespoke itinerary and read some travel recommendations for an out-of- the-ordinary holiday in Rome that includes more than just famous locations like the Vatican Museums and the Colosseum. An extraordinary vacation with special openings of hidden jewels, meetings with locals, unique and exciting activities in rare settings, and discoveries that will enrich you, make you want to return and that you will happily suggest to family and friends.
First and foremost, feel free to plan your vacation as you see fit, and don't feel obligated to visit a certain location because "you have to do it." Being on holiday is a personal experience of life, so do whatever makes you glad based on your preferences, time, and rhythm. Don’t stress out, and always rely on a local travel design professional who can assist you and build an experience personalized specifically for you. Listen to yourself and figure out what makes you happy when you're in a new environment.
Our travel tips are:
1. Archaeological tour in Castelli Romani. One of the private experiences that will undoubtedly pique your enthusiasm and interest is the special opening of a unique location that is little known even by locals. There are hidden and valuable spots to visit in the beautiful Roman countryside of the Castelli Romani, not far from Rome, to learn about the history of the region Lazio and the city of Rome. Tourists would be impressed by the superb conservation despite the passing of time of the Undergrounds of the Roman countryside with its ancient shrines, catacombs and cisterns. Each of the several towns part of Castelli Romani has a unique history waiting to be discovered.
2. Restoration Experience. An exclusive private visit of the restoration studio where important works by Caravaggio have been restored. This is a one-of-a-kind location in Rome that will allow you to carefully witness the work of restorers and appreciate the importance of the craft part in the artist's creative work, examining the woods, paints, colors, and adhesives, in a path that will forever change his relationship with art. A unique and unparalleled approach to discover art that is often admired passively in museums. Here, you will be motivated by a direct and customized experience and by the opportunity to speak to the restorers.
3. Painting workshop. Travel back 500 years in time for a complete immersion in an authentic studio that recreates the ambiance of Caravaggio's lab. Experience his painting technique centered on great realism and stark contrasts between light and shadow. You will spend a few hours away from the city bustle in a fascinating studio talking about art and experiencing your own creativity with local painters and teachers. Be prepared to bring with you your own particular masterpiece as a souvenir from Rome. Mosaic, ceramic-making, fresco-making workshops and watercolor classes are also available.
4. Cooking class at the chef’s house in a lovely neighborhood where you can breathe the most authentic Rome and if you happen to be in Rome on a Sunday also an Italian Sunday Lunch “Nonna’s Style”. Enjoy your culinary trip with the chefs, beginning with a visit to a vibrant local market where you will learn about the fresh, seasonal ingredients that define Italian cuisine. You will learn how to make fresh pasta (fettuccine, gnocchi, or ravioli), a paired sauce, a main meal, and the secrets to a beautiful and creamy Tiramisù. To finish, enjoy your cooked Italian meal matched with wonderful local wines. The Sunday experience instead is an opportunity to immerse yourself in the true Italian culture and culinary traditions. You'll gather around the table to eat a variety of delectable, handmade delicacies that have been prepared with love and care with special secret traditional recipes handed down by the grandmothers of the two chefs. From hearty pasta to rich, slow-cooked meats, and, of course, a sweet dessert to finish the meal. Each taste will transport you to the heart of Italian family life. An excellent opportunity to share food, tales, and fun while experiencing a true sense of Italy with locals. It's more than simply eating; it's about connecting, celebrating culture, custums and traditions, and eating the way Italians do.
5. Day trip from Rome to Terracina and Sperlonga. Or, alternatively a tour of Palestrina and Zagarolo with visit to the archaeological site of Palestrina, the museum and a wine tasting in a local winery. With a local guide you will explore these unique destinations less-known by tourists. In Terracina, you will visit the Temple of Jupiter Anxur with its panoramic view on the Tyrrhenian Sea, the Cathedral an example of Romanesque architecture with Gothic and Baroque elements and Palazzo Venditti. In Sperlonga (only 20 min drive from Terracina), the Archaeological Museum and the Old Town. You will also taste the Mediterranean food specialties and enjoy the beaches frequented during summer by many Roman citizens. For almost two decades, the Blue Flag has been raised over the sea of Sperlonga, a distinguished worldwide honor for the water quality and livability of the coastline, which features a sandy bottom and a clean sea. A WWF-managed protected oasis safeguards the ecology and several marine species in the area. If you are interested in one or more of these experiences, feel free to contact us for a bespoke itinerary at info@zestitalytours.com
