It’s only natural that if you’re in the market for a little old-school and decadent dolce vita for your Roman Holiday, you’ll want to stay along the famed Via Veneto.
While this area of town is often touted by locals as one to be avoided for various reasons, it’s where the majority of the eternal city’s 5 star hotels are located. The area might not be buzzing at night like some of the other central quartieri or have the narrow cobblestone streets one has to come to associate with Rome, but it provides a perfectly located base from which to explore the city. Right by the Villa Borghese, all the splendors of Ancient Rome are just a short walk away.
Here are some of the things I like to do around here:
Take a walk
Villa Borghese
Not Rome’s biggest park, but certainly one of the most beautiful. With a little row boat-filled lake, squares, villas and loads of green space, don’t miss Villa Borghese while you’re in Rome – especially in the warmer months.
Art and culture
Galleria Borghese
Located within the the park, the Galleria Borghese, built initially to house private art collections, is a gallery which boasts some of the most beautiful artworks by Bernini, Raphael and Caravaggio. Entry tickets must be booked and purchased well in advance and be done so right here or again, enquire at your hotel, but note that sometimes it’s booked up weeks in advance. (Galleria Borghese)
Rome by night
Teatro Sistina
What started out as a cinema in the 1940s is now Rome’s Teatro Sistina where everything from musicals like Jesus Christ Superstar to theatre and concerts play. A night at the theatre is always a lovely way to enjoy a city. See what’s on, book tickets online (or get your concierge to help out) get dressed up and mix with the locals. (Teatro Sistina)
Sightsee
Trevi Fountain
Thanks to Roman high end brand, Fendi, the most famous fountain in the world recently had a facelift! It’s looking bigger, whiter and more glorious than ever. Throw your coins in, make a wish and watch the world go by! 
Discover
Capuchin Crypt
Rome isn’t short of a church, but located literally a stones throw from the hotel, is one of the most quirky and unique. The Capuchins Crypt is decorated with the bones of former Capuchin friars – over 4,000 no less! It’s a cultural and spiritual experience not to be missed. (Capuchin Crypt)
Regenerate
Baglioni Spa by Caschera Spa
After all the shopping and sightseeing – Rome can be exhausting if you’re in town just for a few days – you’ll need a pampering touch! The state-of-the-art Caschera spa is the brainchild of spa and hospitality entrepreneur, Paolo Caschera. Offering indulgent body and facial treatments it also features a wet zone with a hydrotherapy tub, Finnish-style sauna, steam room, emotional shower to revitalize the senses. (Baglioni Spa by Caschera Spa)
Sleep well
Baglioni Hotel Regina
Five star and nothing but decadent luxury, the Baglioni Hotel Regina boasts over 100 rooms, each appointed in with elegant art deco touches. Family-run to this day, the Baglioni brand has become synonymous with Italian design, character and class. Most of the suites enjoy balcony views of Rome and the penthouse suite is nothing short of spectacular. The concierge team are beyond helpful and treat every guest like a VIP. With on site award-winning dining options and a fully appointed day spa, the Baglioni sits proud along the Via Veneto and is a perfect base for your Rome stay. (Baglioni Hotel Regina) 
Eat and Drink
Brunello Lounge and Restaurant
Brunello is open for lunch and dinner for hotel and non hotel guests and has a convenient street side entry too. With an eclectic Mediterranean menu and a Moroccan feel to the decor, it’s super warm and cosy. The bar is also open daily until 1am. (Brunello Lounge and Restaurant)
Cheap Lunch Pick
Pastificio
When you’re sightseeing around the Spanish Steps area (about 10 min walk from Via Veneto), an authentic and quality lunch on the run isn’t as easy as you think to find. Enter Pastificio. This place is an all-vintage-signage and stuck in the past pasta house. There’s a line down the street but don’t be intimidated – it moves quickly. These pasta artisans don’t have time to chat – it’s a get in, get out kind of affair and at a €4 plate of homemade pasta (two types on the menu each day) it’s just perfect for a truly local experience. (Pastificio) 
Feed your Sweettooth
Bottega Italia
For when only a gelato or even a Sicilian ricotta filled cannolo will do, head to Botgega Italia. Family-run with a focus on eat and shop, it also features a full bistro and restaurant, pizzeria, bar, delicatessen and wine cellar. The gelato is the homemade, real-deal kinda stuff with owners, the Monteforte family already in the gelateria business. It’s a great option if you’re in the area, open all day, every day (7am-2am)! (Bottega Italia)
Signing off from Trastevere,
Baci, Maria
Acknowledgements: On my recent stay at the Baglioni Hotel Regina I was an invited guest of the Baglioni Hotel Group. On my blog, I express my own views – nobody ever tells me what to write.
