Rome's Culinary Walk: Pizzas, Piazzas & Hidden Eats
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Overview
Pizzas and Piazzas: A Self-Guided Walk of Rome’s Culinary Culture offers a tasty adventure through the heart of Rome. This self-guided walking tour, led by travel expert Massimo Porcelli, takes explorers on a journey to discover the city's best-kept culinary secrets. Participants will learn about the history of Roman cuisine and get insider tips on where to savor the most authentic local flavors.
The tour begins at Ponte Sisto, leading into the historical center where the mysterious origins of Carbonara are uncovered. At Campo de' Fiori, travelers will discover fresh seasonal produce ('primizie') and learn about the aperitivo tradition, a custom that dates back to Roman times. Along the way, the tour highlights architectural gems and artistic masterpieces by figures like Bernini, while visiting renowned establishments such as Old Bar Pasticceria Mariani, Roscioli Caffè, Forno Campo de' Fiori, Da Francesco, Supplizio (famous for supplì), and Il Goccetto for a classic Roman aperitivo.
Participants can expect to explore iconic landmarks like Ponte Sisto, Campo de' Fiori, Antico Forno Roscioli, Volpetti, Piazza Navona, Supplì, Delicatessen, Wine Bar, Piazza Farnese, and Gelateria. This 90-minute experience provides lifetime access to the tour via an Android and iOS app, complete with offline access to audio, maps, and geodata. This allows travelers to explore at their own pace and gain a greater appreciation for Roman culinary traditions, learning how to order like a true local. Excluded are smartphones, headphones, entrance fees, transportation, and any food and drink purchases along the way.




Highlights
Explore Rome's Food Scene: Discover hidden culinary gems and local favorites.
Learn About Roman Cuisine: Uncover the history and traditions behind iconic dishes.
Self-Guided Exploration: Explore at your own pace with a user-friendly app.
Offline Access: Enjoy the tour even without an internet connection.
Sentiment Analysis
Customers generally enjoyed the self-guided food tour for its flexibility, cultural insights, and discovery of local culinary gems. The absence of included food/drinks and device requirements were minor drawbacks.

Customers loved learning about Roman food history.
Visitors enjoyed exploring at their own pace.
Travelers appreciated the flexibility and offline access.
Many liked discovering hidden food spots.
Some wished food and drinks were included.
A few felt a smartphone should be provided.
The Journey
Ponte Sisto
Cross the magnificent Ponte Sisto, a 15th-century Renaissance bridge commissioned by Pope Sixtus IV, gracefully arching over the Tiber River. Admire its iconic oculus, a perfect circle offering stunning views. This historic crossing provides an enchanting starting point to explore Rome's culinary heart, connecting you to Trastevere's vibrant trattorias.
Campo de' Fiori
Immerse yourself in the vibrant chaos of Campo de' Fiori, Rome's bustling market square. By day, witness a colorful explosion of produce, flowers, and local crafts. Explore the lively atmosphere, a Roman tradition since 1869, and feel the pulse of Roman food culture where locals and tourists alike gather to trade goods and experience the city's energy.
Antico Forno Roscioli
Discover Antico Forno Roscioli, a legendary bakery established in 1880 in the heart of Rome. Renowned for its exceptional pizza bianca and traditional Roman breads, this family-run institution offers a sensory feast. Savor the aroma of freshly baked goods while experiencing time-honored baking techniques passed down through generations. A must-visit for pizza aficionados and food lovers.
Volpetti
Visit Volpetti, a renowned gourmet emporium where Italy's finest gastronomic treasures are showcased. Admire the artful display of exquisite salamis, cheeses, and regional wines, each carefully selected for its quality and unique flavor profile. Immerse yourself in Rome's culinary traditions as you sample exceptional products and learn about the ingredients that define Roman cuisine. A true paradise for epicureans.
Piazza Navona
Marvel at the splendor of Piazza Navona, one of Rome's most spectacular piazzas. Admire Bernini's Fountain of the Four Rivers, a baroque masterpiece, at its center. Wander through this vibrant space, once a stadium in ancient Rome, now filled with street artists, musicians, and a lively atmosphere. Experience the perfect blend of history, art, and Roman street life.
Supplì
Delight in the simple pleasures of supplì, Rome's beloved fried rice balls with a molten mozzarella heart. Visit a local eatery specializing in this Roman street food staple and savor the crispy exterior and cheesy interior. Learn how humble ingredients are transformed into a quintessential Roman snack, offering a true taste of Roman culinary culture.
Delicatessen
Step into a traditional Roman delicatessen, a haven of culinary delights showcasing the region's finest porchetta, salami, prosciutto, and regional cheeses. Experience the authentic atmosphere of a local food shop where Romans select quality ingredients for their home cooking. Sample exceptional cured meats and cheeses, and immerse yourself in the flavors of Rome.
Wine Bar
Unearth a hidden gem: a charming wine bar nestled in a 16th-century building. Wooden shelves line the walls, showcasing hundreds of bottles from across Italy. Embrace the beloved Roman tradition of aperitivo as you sample regional wines paired with delectable small plates. Immerse yourself in the cozy ambiance and enjoy a truly authentic Roman wine experience.
Piazza Farnese
Admire the elegance of Piazza Farnese, an aristocratic Renaissance square dominated by the imposing Palazzo Farnese, now the French Embassy. Two granite fountains, originally from ancient Roman baths, grace the space. Stroll through this architectural gem, a testament to Rome's ability to seamlessly blend historical periods into harmonious urban landscapes. A captivating glimpse into Rome's rich history and artistic heritage.
Gelateria
Conclude your Roman culinary journey with a visit to an authentic gelato institution. Witness the art of traditional gelato making, where seasonal ingredients are transformed into unforgettable frozen treats. Discover why Italian gelato is celebrated worldwide for its dense texture and intense flavors. Savor the sweet culmination of your Roman adventure with a taste of pure gelato perfection.
Know Before You Go
This self-guided tour includes lifetime access to the English version of the tour before and after the booking date. It also offers offline access to audio, maps, and geodata through an app available for both Android and iOS devices. The flexibility to explore at your own pace is a key feature, with GPS directions provided to the starting point. Please note that the tour does not include a smartphone, headphones, any tickets or entrance fees, transportation, or food and drinks. It's all about self discovery!
Hot Tip
Many visitors suggest bringing your appetite and planning to sample the local delicacies at each stop. Download the offline map before starting to avoid data usage. Wear comfortable shoes for walking!