24 hrs in… Rome

Rome is the Eternal City, but for me, perhaps it is a little more eternal than for most. Maybe it is the family ties that connect me to this extraordinary city, or perhaps simply its undeniable charm and timeless allure. Whatever the reason, Rome is always Rome. And every time I return, it feels magical all over again.

Whether under the rain, as it was when I first arrived, or bathed in the November sunshine that gently caressed my skin, Rome never loses its grandeur. There is something about this city that is difficult to put into words. It is majestic, effortlessly beautiful, and endlessly fascinating. A place that never stops revealing new stories, even to those who think they already know it.

In this new instalment of our 24hrs in… series, I will take you on a journey through little independent boutiques, hidden gems, and unexpected addresses, away from the usual tourist trails and mainstream circuit. A different way of experiencing Rome, through the places and people that make the city so special.

But, as always, every journey begins somewhere. And, as always, our first stop is the hotel.

The hotel: The Rome EDITION

Set within an imposing 1940s building, The Rome EDITION offers an interesting encounter between the architectural heritage of the capital and a contemporary vision of hospitality. Majestic in its proportions yet understated in its elegance, the property immediately stands out against Rome's urban landscape.

Dating back to the 1940s, the building was designed by architect Cesare Pascoletti in collaboration with the renowned Marcello Piacentini, one of the leading figures of twentieth-century Italian architecture.

Spread across seven floors, the hotel conceals a world of contemporary elegance, culminating in a spectacular rooftop swimming pool with breathtaking panoramic views over Rome and its legendary Seven Hills. A rather extraordinary setting in which to enjoy the Eternal City from a different perspective.

The hotel features 93 rooms, including 17 suites and two penthouses, all reflecting the distinctive EDITION aesthetic. Conceived by visionary entrepreneur Ian Schrager, founder of EDITION Hotels in partnership with Marriott International, the concept has been brought to life and interpreted here by the Statuto Group, the hotel's owner.

The interiors strike a harmonious balance between contemporary design and understated sophistication, complemented by thoughtful details such as Le Labo bathroom amenities. Another aspect worth mentioning is the generous and well-proportioned size of the rooms. Whether planning a short city break or a longer stay of three nights or more, the accommodation offers the right level of comfort and space to make guests feel at home.

And then there is the Lobby. Or rather, The Lobby: the beating heart of the hotel, as is customary across all EDITION properties.

A truly striking space that makes an impression from the very first glance. Its spectacular seven-metre-high ceilings meet porous travertine walls and floors, creating an atmosphere where Rome's architectural heritage encounters a distinctly international and contemporary aesthetic.

Two symmetrical seating arrangements define the central axis of the room, while custom-made white fabric sofas, coffee tables inspired by Manuel Coltri's creations, fossil wood tables, and floor lamps contribute to an environment that feels sophisticated without ever becoming overly formal.

This is where the spirit of The Rome EDITION truly comes to life: a place to unwind, socialise, celebrate, observe and be observed, or perhaps challenge someone to a game of billiards on the bespoke table. The Lobby is a destination in its own right.

On the ground floor, two distinctive venues, Jade Bar and Punch Room, bring a sophisticated mixology experience to the heart of the hotel, offering two different settings for an evening drink. The seventh floor is home to The Roof, where guests can enjoy the rooftop atmosphere, swimming pool, and spectacular views over the city. Anima, meanwhile, is located on the ground floor and is the hotel's signature restaurant, where culinary creativity takes centre stage. Both are well worth discovering, each offering a different reason to linger at The Rome EDITION.

There is, of course, also a gym on level -1, equipped with the latest Technogym equipment, for those who prefer not to interrupt their workout routine even during a Roman getaway.

I must admit that my photographs, unfortunately, do not quite do justice to the beauty of the interiors. And, truth be told, photography has never been my greatest talent. But take my word for it: The Rome EDITION is one of those places that deserves to be experienced rather than simply photographed.

What particularly won me over, beyond the interiors themselves, was its enchanting garden: a little oasis, almost unexpected in the heart of the city. A secluded green retreat that invites guests to step inside, slow down, and immerse themselves in its atmosphere, while offering a welcome sense of privacy away from the curious eyes of the outside world.

It is also a lovely space not only for in-house guests but for visitors coming from outside the hotel, offering the perfect setting for a moment of relaxation.

Because, after all, true luxury in Rome is also about this: finding a little sanctuary of tranquillity in the heart of a city that never stops living.

Anima: A culinary journey from Naples to Rome

As I mentioned at the beginning, I have a particularly strong connection with Rome. This visit, however, was primarily prompted by academic commitments, as I was scheduled to deliver a series of lectures at the university the following day.

Having arrived at the hotel rather late and being in no particular mood to venture out again in search of dinner, I decided to give Anima, the restaurant within The Rome EDITION, a try. And what a pleasant decision that turned out to be!

Led by Executive Chef Antonio Gentile, the restaurant unfolds across two beautifully designed dining rooms, each with its own distinctive personality.

The first features upholstered furnishings in Chartreuse Verte, with 115 photographs capturing the spirit of Rome's Dolce Vita in the 1950s, taken by Elio Sorci and displayed across the walls. The second embraces a completely different mood, with furnishings in Yves Klein Blue.

In the first dining room, guests can also catch a glimpse of the open kitchen. Behind a delicate sheet of amber glass, the chef and his brigade are visible at work, adding a theatrical dimension to the dining experience without compromising the intimacy of the setting.

With no food allergies or particular dietary restrictions, and always keen to explore new culinary experiences, I asked the team for a recommendation. Their suggestion was the 227km tasting menu.

And what a recommendation it was!

A truly exquisite journey, and I do mean exquisite, taking guests from Naples to Rome through the flavours, aromas, and culinary traditions of two cities that are deeply intertwined with the chef's identity.

It is a journey that celebrates Antonio Gentile's Neapolitan roots while embracing his Roman present and future. His pride in his origins is evident throughout the menu, yet there is also a subtle, skilful nod to his adopted city, particularly towards the end of the experience, where the desserts bring this culinary dialogue to a delightful conclusion.

One dish that deserves a special mention is the Calamarelle LOCAL alla “vota-piatto”, lemon and almond. It perfectly encapsulates the encounter between these two culinary cultures, bringing together contrasting yet harmonious flavours in a combination that is simply delightful. A real treat for the palate and the senses.

But there is more.

The menu also caters beautifully to vegetarian diners, with a four-course vegetarian tasting experience that is anything but an afterthought. Among the dishes, the “EDITION Eggplant Parmigiana with Buffalo Mozzarella, tomato and basil”, as well as “Organic Egg BIO with Local Maccarese Carrot LOCAL and Conciato di San Vittore cheese”, sound particularly tempting. Even the most devoted carnivores might find themselves reconsidering their choices!

Another detail that made the evening particularly enjoyable was the team itself. The staff was exceptionally welcoming, attentive, and genuinely passionate about what they do. They took the time to explain each course, its ingredients, and the inspiration behind it, making the experience all the more engaging.

Anima, therefore, is a culinary destination in its own right, one that manages to tell a personal story through food while celebrating the gastronomic heritage of two extraordinary Italian cities.

The eternal city: A morning walk through Rome

The following morning, after a lovely breakfast at the hotel, it was time to explore Rome.

One detail I particularly appreciated about breakfast was the absence of a traditional buffet. Instead, guests are welcomed with an extensive and varied à la carte menu, while chefs prepare dishes to order in full view. Beyond making the experience more personal, this approach reflects a growing commitment to sustainability and the reduction of food waste. A small detail, perhaps, but one that makes a difference.

And what better way to begin the day than with a stroll along Via Veneto?

This is no ordinary street. It is the very embodiment of La Dolce Vita, a place whose history is deeply intertwined with the cultural and social evolution of twentieth-century Rome.

It was here, on 31 July 1960, at the legendary Caffè de Paris, now unfortunately closed, that one of fashion's most significant encounters took place: the meeting between Valentino Garavani and Giancarlo Giammetti. Two extraordinary forces of nature who would go on to create the Valentino fashion house we all know and love today.

Via Veneto has always been synonymous with glamour, cinema and international sophistication. And now, thanks to an important urban regeneration project, it is set to become even more beautiful.

Alternatively, if you prefer a different route, I would suggest taking Via Sistina towards the top of Piazza Trinità dei Monti. The reward is a breathtaking panorama over the city, one of those views that remind you why Rome is so difficult to resist. We will, however, return to this part of town later in the evening.

Exploring Rome is always a pleasure because every street, every square, and every unexpected corner has a story to tell.

For those who appreciate fine tailoring and traditional Italian craftsmanship, I would particularly recommend the area surrounding Palazzo Montecitorio, where the Italian Parliament is located. Here, you will find Davide Cenci, a historic Roman institution and an address long associated with the city's most distinguished clientele. A name that has dressed generations of Rome's social and cultural elite and remains a reference point for those who appreciate the art of Italian sartorial elegance.

Art lovers, on the other hand, should not miss Via Margutta. Simply spectacular and wonderfully picturesque, this charming street is home to art galleries, antique dealers, and ateliers offering everything from contemporary works to rare and unique pieces. It is one of those places where wandering without a particular destination is often the best way to discover something unexpected.

And, for those whose shopping list happens to include a yacht, even one exceeding 30 metres in length, L. Marine Groupe, also located in Via Margutta, might be just the address you are looking for. After all, one never knows what one might need in Rome!