Family Adventure in the Heart of Rome

Whispers of the Vatican

Today was a day filled with such profound beauty and historical significance that I'm still trying to process it all. Imagine stepping into a world where art, religion, and history intertwine to create an atmosphere of awe and reverence. That's precisely what today felt like as my family and I explored Vatican City.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Osteria Luci in cucina. The reviews I had read online were spot on—the traditional Roman dishes were delicious, and the cozy atmosphere was the perfect start to a day of exploration. Fueled up and ready, we made our way towards Vatican City, anticipation bubbling inside us.


Savor authentic Italian meat dishes and exquisite wines at Osteria Luci in Cucina—an essential stop for food lovers exploring Rome.

Our first stop: the Vatican Museums. The sheer scale of the place is overwhelming. Corridor after corridor stretched before us, filled with sculptures, tapestries, and paintings from throughout history. I was particularly struck by the Gallery of Maps, where vibrant frescoes depicted the world as it was known centuries ago. Sofia, my daughter, was fascinated by the Egyptian collection, especially the mummies and sarcophagi. Pieter, ever the history enthusiast, was engrossed in the stories behind each artifact, sharing interesting facts with us as we wandered through the halls.


Discover the Vatican Museums, home to artistic masterpieces and rich history, including the iconic Sistine Chapel and treasures of the Catholic Church.

Navigating the crowds was a bit challenging, even in February, but it was a small price to pay for the chance to witness such incredible artistry. I was grateful for the comfortable walking shoes I had packed; my feet were already thanking me! I also felt a pang of regret for forgetting the power adapter – keeping my phone charged for photos and navigation proved trickier than expected.

Art is not what you see, but what you make others see.

Next on our list was the Sistine Chapel. I had seen countless images of Michelangelo’s masterpiece, but nothing could have prepared me for the experience of standing beneath it. The vibrant colors, the intricate details, the sheer scope of the work – it was breathtaking. The Creation of Adam was particularly moving, the connection between God and man rendered with such exquisite detail. It was a moment of quiet contemplation amidst the throng of tourists, a reminder of the power of human creativity and the enduring nature of faith. I found myself thinking about my own creative pursuits, my travel blog, and how I strive to capture the essence of a place and share it with others.


Discover the breathtaking beauty of the Sistine Chapel, an artistic triumph in Vatican City featuring Michelangelo's legendary frescoes.

Leaving the Sistine Chapel, we made our way to St. Peter's Basilica. The grandeur of the basilica is simply astounding. From the soaring dome to the intricate mosaics, every inch of the space is designed to inspire awe. We wandered through the basilica, marveling at the statues and altars, each a testament to centuries of artistic and religious devotion. Michelangelo’s Pietà was particularly poignant, the sorrowful expression on Mary’s face a powerful reminder of human suffering and divine compassion. Pieter lit a candle for his parents, a quiet moment of remembrance in the midst of the bustling crowds.


Explore the grandeur of St. Peter's Basilica, a masterpiece of Renaissance architecture and a significant spiritual landmark in Vatican City.

We took some time to explore St. Peter's Square as well. The sheer scale of the space is impressive, and I could easily imagine the crowds that gather here for papal addresses and religious celebrations. Despite the February chill, the atmosphere was vibrant and full of energy. I also learned that the Jubilee of Deacons is taking place in Rome during our visit. It's amazing to witness such important religious events firsthand.

For lunch, we stopped by Pasticceria Boccione, a charming bakery in the Jewish Ghetto. The aroma of freshly baked goods wafted through the air as we stepped inside. We sampled a variety of treats, including the famous ricotta and cherry tart and the pizza ebraica, a sweet bread filled with candied fruit and nuts. It was a delightful culinary experience, and a welcome break from the crowds of Vatican City. I made a mental note to try and recreate some of these treats back in Amsterdam, adding a Dutch twist to the traditional recipes.


Experience the sweet taste of tradition at Pasticceria Boccione, where every pastry tells a story.

As the day drew to a close, we decided to treat ourselves to aperitivo at Stravinskij Bar, located in the luxurious Hotel de Russie. The bar is known for its elegant atmosphere and creative cocktails, and it did not disappoint. We sipped on expertly crafted drinks while enjoying the beautiful surroundings of the hotel’s Secret Garden. It was the perfect way to unwind after a day of sightseeing, a chance to relax and reflect on all that we had seen and experienced. Sofia enjoyed a mocktail, feeling very grown-up as she sipped her drink and chatted with us about her favorite parts of the day.


Experience the elegance of Stravinskij Bar in Rome, where classic charm meets modern sophistication in a stunning setting.

Before heading back to our hotel, 47 Boutique Hotel, we had dinner at Cantina e Cucina. This restaurant came highly recommended, and it lived up to its reputation. The atmosphere was lively and welcoming, and the food was delicious. We shared a variety of traditional Roman dishes, savoring the flavors of the city. It was a perfect ending to a perfect day.


Experience authentic Roman cuisine at Cantina e Cucina—where every dish tells a story and every sip is a journey through Italy.

Today was more than just a day of sightseeing; it was a journey through history, art, and faith. It was a reminder of the power of human creativity and the enduring nature of the human spirit. As we walked back to our hotel, I felt a sense of gratitude for the opportunity to experience such incredible beauty and inspiration. I know that the memories of today will stay with me long after we leave Rome.


Experience luxury and comfort at 47 Boutique Hotel, a chic oasis in Rome's city center, near iconic landmarks and vibrant local culture.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore the Pantheon, Piazza Navona, and the Trevi Fountain. I'm eager to see more of this incredible city and to continue to share my experiences with you all. Good night from Rome!

Andreea