My favorite day in Rome.

My recent trip to Rome was my third time there ... but this time was the only time that I stayed for more than a week and didn't do anything super touristy. We walked around a lot, and at end of our stay, I realized that there's a really fun, not super touristy day to be had even if you just have one day to spend. So here it is ... my dream day in Rome!

Start out near Isola Tiburina to see a view of the Vatican Dome and snap a photo of Rome's famous river -- either via Ponte Sisto or Ponte Garibaldi.

From there, head north a few blocks to Campo di Fiori -- a picturesque Italian square that has a fun farmer's market during the day. Get breakfast on-to-go (like white pizza) at one of the amazing bread stores like Antica Forno Roscioli or Forno.

And have fun wondering the amazing fruit and vegetable stalls at the market in the middle of the square. Since you are here and might want to take home some yummy food, ask the stalls for tastings of the wide assortment of olive oils, balsamic vinegars, dried pasta and jarred delicacies. YUM!

From here continue wondering north across the busy street called Corso Vittorio Emanuele II and over to Piazza Navona. Make sure to wonder all of the teeny tiny street to the west -- there are lots of picturesque areas and shops along cobblestone streets. When you are hungry again, head back to Piazza Navona for a snack or lunch at one of the many restaurants that face the square.  Great people watching!  And if you are inclined, this is a great spot to get your portrait sketched by a local artist.

From here head west to the Pantheon and make sure to stop at the famous Sant'Eustachio for coffee, if that's your thing. They also have great packaged coffee trinkets and treats in their famous yellow packaging that make a great gift to take home.

Continue heading about a block to the east. I hesitate bringing you this way because I think my favorite thing in all of Rome -- and maybe all of Europe -- is coming to the Pantheon from the front.  It takes my breath away every time!  I'm not sure why but I just absolutely love it. And the Pantheon is free -- no lines, no ticket needed to go inside. Do it, you'll love the engineering phenomenon and the light.

If you weren't in the mood for coffee before, you have a perfect opportunity to go to another Roman coffee landmark -- Tazzo d'Oro, just a block north east of the Pantheon. Their specialty is the Cafe Granita Con Panna, an iced espresso concoction with whipped cream. Hello, it's delicious!

But if I were you, I'd hold out for Giolitti, just a few blocks to the north. It's the best gelato in the world! I'm not kidding -- believe me, I've tried them all. You'll see a lot of other gelato shops along your short walk there. Don't be tempted. They aren't nearly as good, I promise. There will probably be a big crowd milling outside and a long line inside when you get there. Stand in it as it's worth the wait. First stand in the line to buy your gelato and get a ticket. Then go stand in the longer line. Make sure to get it 'con panna' (with whipped cream) because that's the Italian way. And you know, When in Rome ...

From here, continue heading west to the Trevi Fountain. Sit and have a look at this amazing fountain. Another of my favorites! And if you are so inclined, throw in coins according to the legend.

Now wander to the north to experience the Spanish Steps.  Walk to the top of the steps for a great view of the city. And hang out on the steps -- maybe with a bottle of wine? -- for some fantastic people watching. If you are lucky, maybe someone with a guitar or accordion will be nearby playing Italian music. What fun!

If you didn't do it on your way here, make sure to zig zag your way around this neighborhood and poke in all of the shops.

And depending what time it is, keep heading north to Piazza del Popolo. While this is a huge beautiful plaza on its own, you can skip it if you are just there for a day. What you really want is to close out your day with dinner at one of two restaurants that look out onto it. You probably don't need a reservation for Rosati but you will need a reservation for Dal Bolognese which is right next door and a local favorite.  Ask to sit outside at both. For something a little more contemporary, I also really loved eating at 'Gusto which is just about 6 blocks to the south. They have a wine bar, a pizzeria and a more upscale restaurant. A kitchen shop, too!

And then make sure to end your day at the Hotel Locarno with a drink and great people watching with a local crowd. On your taxi ride back to where you came from, make sure they drive you by The Vatican and the Colosseum at night. It's stunning!

Will you send me a postcard?  Buon Viaggio!

{All photos ©Denise Crew}.