Family Adventure Through the Eternal City: Rome

Whispers of the Borghese

Today was a day of diving deep into Rome's artistic heart and finding pockets of tranquility amidst the city's vibrant energy. It's days like these that remind me why we chose Rome for our family adventure – a place where history and beauty intertwine at every corner.

Our Thursday began, as most days should, with a hearty breakfast. We ventured to Moma, a Michelin-starred restaurant that also operates a bistro. Though known for its innovative cuisine, we opted for a classic Italian breakfast – strong coffee for Emily and me, and some pastries that Oliver devoured in record time. Fuelled up, we were ready to tackle the artistic wonders that awaited us.


Discover exquisite Italian cuisine at Moma in Rome, where fine dining meets exceptional service in an elegant setting.

First on the agenda was the Galleria Borghese. I had booked our tickets well in advance, a tip I'd read on a forum for seasoned travelers, and thank goodness I did! The timed entry system meant that even though there were other visitors, it never felt overwhelmingly crowded. As a historical reenactor, I’ve always been fascinated by the stories behind the art, and this gallery is brimming with them.


Explore the Galleria Borghese: A masterpiece-filled art museum in the heart of Rome, showcasing the brilliance of Italian art.

Walking through the Galleria Borghese is like stepping into a Baroque dream. Bernini's sculptures were the absolute highlight for me. His Apollo and Daphne is breathtaking, the way he captured the movement and emotion in marble is simply astounding. I found myself explaining the mythology behind the sculpture to Oliver, who, surprisingly, was captivated by the tale of love and transformation. Emily, ever the pragmatist, was more impressed by Caravaggio's David with the Head of Goliath. The raw emotion and the dramatic use of light and shadow truly resonated with her. It’s amazing how art can speak to different people in different ways.

The beauty of art lies not just in what you see, but in the stories it tells and the emotions it evokes.

After immersing ourselves in the Galleria's masterpieces, we stepped outside into the sprawling Villa Borghese gardens. The contrast was striking – from the intense concentration required to appreciate the art to the open, airy freedom of the park. The gardens themselves are a work of art, a sprawling green oasis in the heart of Rome. We strolled along winding paths, past fountains and statues, with Oliver gleefully chasing pigeons. It was the perfect way to decompress after the intensity of the gallery.


Discover the serene beauty of Villa Borghese, Rome's iconic park, rich in art, history, and picturesque landscapes perfect for every traveler.

I'd read about the Temple of Asclepius, so we made our way towards the lake. Renting a rowboat was a must. Oliver, of course, insisted on doing all the rowing himself, which resulted in us going in circles for a good ten minutes. Still, it was great fun, and the view of the temple from the water was well worth the effort. Emily took some photos, capturing the serene beauty of the scene. I even managed to sneak in a few shots for my blog, hoping to capture the essence of this hidden gem.

Lunch was calling, and we had reservations at That's Amore Restaurant, near the Trevi Fountain. It's a popular spot, and for good reason. The pasta was divine – fresh, flavorful, and cooked to perfection. I opted for the Spaghetti alla Carbonara, a Roman classic, while Emily enjoyed the seafood pasta. Oliver, predictably, went for the heart-shaped pizza, which he devoured with gusto. The atmosphere was lively and welcoming, and the staff were incredibly friendly, making us feel right at home.


Discover authentic Italian flavors at That's Amore Restaurant in Rome – where every dish tells a story!

After lunch, we took a leisurely stroll back towards our hotel, stopping for gelato along the way. No trip to Rome is complete without indulging in this frozen delight. Oliver chose a bright pink strawberry flavor, while Emily and I went for classic pistachio. As we savored our gelato, we reflected on the day's adventures.

As the sun began to set, we decided to treat ourselves to a pre-dinner drink at Stravinskij Bar, located in the Hotel de Russie. This bar is known for its elegant atmosphere and expertly crafted cocktails. Emily ordered a classic Martini, while I opted for their signature Stravinskij Spritz. Oliver, of course, had a juice. The bar's Secret Garden provided a tranquil setting, a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.


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

For dinner, we had a reservation at La Ciambella, a restaurant known for its modern take on Roman cuisine. This place was a real find! The ambiance was intimate and stylish, and the food was simply outstanding. We opted for the tasting menu, which allowed us to sample a variety of dishes. From the inventive appetizers to the decadent desserts, each course was a culinary delight. The chef clearly has a passion for using fresh, local ingredients, and the flavors were vibrant and exciting.


Discover authentic Italian cuisine at La Ciambella in Rome - where every dish celebrates the rich flavors of Italy.

I tried the oxtail, which was amazing. Emily, being a marine biologist, was fascinated by the seafood options, and she raved about the cuttlefish tagliatelle. Oliver, surprisingly, enjoyed the rabbit. The wine pairing was also excellent, with each wine perfectly complementing the flavors of the dish. The staff were knowledgeable and attentive, making the dining experience truly special.

As we walked back to our hotel, full and content, I couldn't help but feel grateful for the experiences we were sharing as a family. Rome has a way of captivating you, of drawing you in with its beauty and its history. Tomorrow, we plan to explore Castel Sant'Angelo and Ponte Sant'Angelo, and maybe do some shopping at Galleria Alberto Sordi. But for now, I'm content to savor the memories of today, of art and gardens, of laughter and delicious food. It's moments like these that make our family adventure so unforgettable.

Before drifting off to sleep, I managed to catch up on some football news. Arsenal had a decent draw, nothing spectacular, but enough to keep my spirits high. It’s funny how even when I’m miles away, my team still manages to find a way into my thoughts. Makes me feel connected to home, even when I’m making new memories here in Rome. Good night from the Eternal City!

Tomorrow, we're off to Castel Sant'Angelo and Ponte Sant'Angelo, followed by a bit of shopping at Galleria Alberto Sordi. It's another day to soak in the Roman atmosphere and create memories with my family. I can't wait to see what adventures await us.