Meet the TripMakers: top-rated tour guides from around the world who go above and beyond to create unforgettable experiences, as proven by TripAdvisor traveler reviews. Read on for Francesca's top tips, favorite spots, and best advice for seeing the real Rome.
Francesca Romana Oddi is, in her own words, a proper Roman guide. She was born in Rome, her parents were born in Rome, and their parents were born in Rome. She’s a trained art historian, and for the past several years, she’s led tours of the Colosseum and the Vatican for City Wonders. Part of her job is staying up-to-date on all things Rome, so if there’s a quiet church with exceptional art, a local dish unknown to most Italians, or a fresh archaeological dig, she knows about it.
What makes Rome special?
“Every Italian city has something special,” Francesca says, “but Rome is another story.” Rome was the center of every part of Italian history, from the Etruscan period through the Renaissance and the 20th century. “Each one of these periods gave something important to Rome, and the monuments, churches, residences, and palaces are the proof.”
The best ways to see the Vatican and the Colosseum
At the Vatican, Francesca makes sure her travelers climb the Bramante Staircase and visit the Raphael Rooms. “The Raphael Rooms are not as famous as the Sistine Chapel, but leaving without seeing them is a big miss,” she says. “When I lead people there they don’t know who Raphael is, but afterwards they thank me.”
For repeat visitors, the time-honored attractions can offer something new. Try finding a fresh archaeological dig near the Forum, or visit the Vatican during a special event like the Jubilee, when the Pope invites all to cross the Holy Door.
What other top sights shouldn’t be missed?
The Pantheon offers a glimpse of Rome’s ancient and modern history. It was an ancient Roman temple, holds the graves of two of Italy’s last kings, and hosts masses and weddings today. As with all churches in Rome, it’s free to visit.
Underrated spots
Francesca recommends visiting Santa Prassede, the church where she was married. “It’s very special to me,” she says. “It’s a small, totally unknown church in the city center, and one of the few in Rome with ancient mosaics.” She mentions Centrale Montemartini, a former power plant converted into a sculpture museum with works from the Musei Capitolini. Also, while travelers converge on the Pietà in St. Peter’s Basilica, they miss Michelangelo’s Moses in St. Peter in Chains, a church without painful crowds and lines.
Where's the authentic Roman food?
Travelers usually head to trendy Trastevere to hunt for the best Roman dishes, but edgy Testaccio is farther from the crowds and has more authentic food. “Trastevere is alive with restaurants, cafés, and bars,” she says, “but I love Testaccio. We can say it’s more authentic because it has restaurants serving proper Roman meals.” Even Italians from outside Rome might be unfamiliar with Francesca’s favorites: pasta amatriciana and supplì, a street food staple of fried rice and ragù.
Tips you can't travel without
Francesca could write a book of travel tips, but a few basic ones will save you a ton of trouble. First, don’t buy water. “Bring an empty water bottle,” she says' "You can fill it up almost everywhere you go.” It’s true: there are beautiful water fountains in nearly every neighborhood. Second, don’t underestimate how hot Rome can be. “Very often, people arrive and are shocked at the heat,” she says, “and they go to the Vatican improperly dressed.” Wear a hat to block the heat—cover your legs and shoulders, and you won’t be turned away at the entrance.
