Exploring Italy: Ancient History, Football, and the Best Food in the World

Welcome to our Italy travel blog!  If there is one country that perfectly captures the "Cooke family" travel style, it’s Italy.  From the chaotic energy of a matchday in Rome to the quiet awe of standing inside the Colosseum, Italy is a sensory explosion.

Our trips to Rome have been some of our most memorable.  Whether we’re navigating the ancient cobblestones or hunting down the perfect carbonara, we’ve learned that the best way to see the Eternal City is with an open mind and a very empty stomach.

The Colloseum, Rome, Italy

The Beautiful Game: Watching Football in Rome

For us, traveling isn't just about museums; it's about experiencing the local passion.  Nothing says "passion" like Italian football.

  • Matchday at the Stadio Olimpico: Our experience watching AS Roma. We dive into how to secure tickets, the best way to get to the stadium, and why the "Curva" singing is something you have to hear in person.
  • The Atmosphere: Why a football match in Italy is a cultural event.  We share our tips for families attending a game and how to soak up the pre-match energy.
Watching AS Roma, at the Stadio Olimpico, Rome, Italy

Walking Through History: Exploring Ancient Sites

Rome is often described as an open air museum, and it’s true.  You can’t turn a corner without bumping into a 2,000-year-old column or fountain!

  • The Colosseum & Roman Forum: Our guide to skipping the long queues and why we think a guided tour is worth every penny to truly understand the stories of the gladiators.
  • The Pantheon: Why this is our favourite building in Rome (and it's free to enter!).
  • Hidden Gems: Beyond the big landmarks, we share the smaller ancient sites that most tourists walk right past, giving you a quieter glimpse into the past.
Pantheon, Rome, Italy

The Main Event: Amazing Italian Food

Let’s be honest, we’re mostly here for the pasta. Italian food is so much more than just pizza, and we’ve made it our mission to find the best spots in Rome.

  • The "Big Four" Roman Pastas: We break down the differences between Carbonara, Cacio e Pepe, Amatriciana, and Gricia, and where to find the most authentic versions.
  • Street Food & Gelato: From supplì (fried rice balls) in Trastevere to the best artisanal gelato shops near the Trevi Fountain.
  • Dining Like a Local: Our tips for spotting a tourist trap (hint: if there are pictures of the food on a board outside, keep walking!).
Rome, Italy

The Ultimate Guide to Rome: 10 Must-Book Activities To Make Your Dream Trip Unforgettable

Rome, the Eternal City, is a destination that captures the heart of every traveller with it's ancient history, world-class art, and vibrant modern life.  From the echo of gladiators in the mighty Colosseum to the sweet taste of gelato enjoyed on a sun-drenched piazza, every cobblestone tells a story. But with so much to see and do, figuring out where to start can feel overwhelming.  How do you find the best Rome tours to truly make the most of your trip?

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How to Enjoy Rome and Roma Football in One Trip

When planning a trip to Rome, your itinerary will likely be packed with visits to the Colosseum, the Vatican, the Trevi Fountain, and countless other historical and cultural landmarks.  But if you're a football fan, or even just someone who enjoys a vibrant, authentic cultural experience, there's one activity you shouldn't miss: attending an AS Roma football match.

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Rome: A Weekend Guide for First-Time Visitors

Rome is a city that needs no introduction.  It is the eternal city, the cradle of Western civilization, the home of the Vatican, and a treasure trove of art, culture, and history.  Rome is also a vibrant and modern metropolis, with a lively nightlife, a delicious cuisine, and a friendly atmosphere. 

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The Ultimate Guide to the Roma Pass: Is it Worth it for Your Rome Trip?

Planning a weekend away in Rome?  One of the first things you'll encounter is the option to buy a tourist pass.  Among the most popular is the Roma Pass, the official city card designed to make your sightseeing and travel seamless.  But with various passes on the market, is the Roma Pass the right choice for you?  This detailed guide breaks down what the Roma Pass includes, its benefits, and should help you to decide if it's a smart investment for your trip.

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The Top 10 Places to Visit in Rome

Rome is a city that will enchant you with its beauty, history, and culture.  It is a city that has something for everyone, from ancient monuments and museums to lively squares and markets.  It is a city that you will never forget, and that you will want to return to again and again. 

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Our trip to Rome - A Dream Come True

Rome is one of the most fascinating and beautiful cities in the world.  It has a rich history, culture, and art that span over two millennia.  Whether you are interested in ancient ruins, Renaissance masterpieces, or modern cuisine, Rome has something for everyone.

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Why We Keep Coming Back to Italy

Italy has a way of making you feel like family.  Whether it’s the waiter who remembers your coffee order or the roar of the crowd at the Olimpico, it’s a place of pure emotion.  We hope our guides help you plan an Italian adventure that is as "bellisimo" as ours was!

Planning Your Italian Getaway

Rome is a busy city, but with a little bit of planning, it’s incredibly rewarding.

  • Getting Around: Why Rome is best explored on foot, but how to use the Metro when your legs finally give up.
  • When to Visit: Our thoughts on visiting during the shoulder season to avoid the sweltering heat of July and August.
  • Beyond Rome: Ideas for day trips if you want to see a bit more of the Italian countryside.

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Need Help Planning your Perfect Trip?

Need some help with planning your trip?  Planning holidays is our speciality, without proper planning you risk missing out on visiting incredible places or just not spending your time and money wisely.  Whether you work full time, have children that take up your time or just don't know where to look, we can help!  Our personal travel planner services are designed to turn your average holiday into the trip of a lifetime.  Click the link below to find out more.