Marble, Miracles, and Macchiatos: A Survey of Rome's Historic Heart
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About the Tour
About the Tour
There are countless hidden spots to be discovered in Rome’s historic heart, beyond the landmarks that dominate postcards.
On this walking tour, you’ll hear fascinating stories and visit lesser-known spots that reflect the Eternal City’s rich tapestry of history. You’ll also see ancient Roman temples, Renaissance palaces and Baroque masterpieces.
The tour starts at Sant’Eustachio Caffè, where filmmaker Federico Fellini once sipped espresso on original 1938 mosaic floors. You’ll weave through elegant squares and narrow medieval streets, passing the whimsical Bernini elephant sculpture, ancient Egyptian obelisks, and the magnificent Pantheon. Along the way, you’ll hear stories about the saints, artists, astronomers, and nobles who shaped Rome’s identity over millennia.
The tour ends at the Church of Santa Maria in Via, home to a sacred well from the 1200s that’s still believed to have healing powers.
During this 60-minute walk, you’ll have a chance to:
- Visit Palazzo Doria Pamphilj, where one of Rome’s finest private art collections is housed in Palazzo Doria Pamphilj
- See three Caravaggio masterpieces depicting the life of Saint Matthew in the Chiesa di San Luigi dei Francesi (Church of Saint Louis of the French)
- Discover fragments of Nero’s lavish ancient bath complex hidden between Renaissance buildings
- Examine Marcus Aurelius’ towering column with its spiral frieze depicting military campaigns
- Stop at artisanal coffee houses and gelaterias that have perfected their craft over generations
- Find the mysterious statue of a cat gazing down from a building that gives Via della Gatta its name
- Learn about the Collegio Romano’s connection to Galileo’s astronomical discoveries, and why he was a controversial figure
By the end of this tour, you’ll have experienced Rome as the beloved actor Alberto Sordi described it: “A big museum, a living room that shall be crossed on one’s toes.”
Tour Producer
Tour Producer
Amy Bizzarri
I’m Amy Bizzarri, a Chicago-based storyteller and educator. I'm also an armchair historian, PADI-certified scuba diver, yogini (and certified yoga instructor), mom, and mermaid (proud graduate of Weeki Wachee Mermaid School), not necessarily in that order.
My deep Chicago roots trace back to an extraordinary family legend: my great‑great‑grandparents met on the night of the Great Chicago Fire, when volunteer firefighter Walter Daker mistook young Catherine’s flowing ginger hair for flames and swept her up in his arms, literally and figuratively. I'm the author of a few Chicago history‑focused books, including Discovering Vintage Chicago, Chicago’s Iconic Dishes, Drinks, and Desserts, and 111 Places in Chicago That You Must Not Miss. I live in a century‑old home in the Logan Square neighborhood.
In my 20s, I lived in Italy, where my family has roots (Felina, RE). I'm an expert in all things Italy.
I speak fluent Italian and French; excellent Spanish and Portuguese.
My love for wine led me to pursue Wine and Spirt Education Trust (WSET) sommelier certification, levels 1-3.
I love a great road trip, too. So much so that my book The Best Hits on Route 66 earned the 2019 Silver Lowell Thomas Award for Best Travel Guide from the Society of American Travel Writers. I followed that bestselling guide with The Best Hits on the Blues Highway, which explores U.S. Route 61, the storied road that shaped American music. My latest book, Route 66 Recipes, celebrates the history behind the diners, dives, and restaurants along the Mother Road as it approaches its 100th anniversary in 2026.
1,000s of children have passed through my classroom doors over the years. I'm a dedicated educator with over 20 years of experience, holding a Master of Arts in Education with a focus on bilingual education. I'm Reading Apprenticeship and International Baccalaureate-certified, endorsed in ESL, and I've been awarded several study grants from the National Endowment for the Humanities (2019, 2021, 2022, 2023).
My storytelling has expanded beyond the page: I've hosted local and national television/radio segments, and I've produced interactive smart walking tours with VoiceMap and EAtlas.
Follow my adventures on Instagram at Instagram.com/amybizzarri to see where in the world I am today!
Preview Location
Preview Location
Location 1
Start: Sant' Eustachio Caffè
Andiamo! Let's go!
Our tour begins here at Sant’Eustachio Caffè.
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Major Landmarks
Major Landmarks
Getting There
Getting There
Route Overview
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Start locationPiazza di S. Eustachio, 82, 00186 Roma RM, Italy
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Total distance3km
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Final locationVia Santa Maria in Via, 00187 Roma RM, Italy
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Distance back to start location612.24m
Directions to Starting Point
To reach Sant’Eustachio Il Caffè, start by heading toward the Pantheon, as the café is just steps away in Piazza Sant’Eustachio. If you're near Termini Station, take Metro Line A to Barberini, then walk 10–15 minutes through Via del Corso and Via dei Pastini. Alternatively, buses 30, 62, 64, 81, or 87 stop nearby. The closest taxi stand is located in Largo Argentina. Walking from popular landmarks like Piazza Navona or Campo de' Fiori is easy and scenic. Arrive early to beat the crowds and kick off your tour with a legendary espresso.
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Tips
Tips
Places to stop along the way
To keep your energy up and enjoy Rome like a local, this tour includes two coffee breaks and one gelato stop.
For a more leisurely break, consider dining at Caffè Doria, nestled in the elegant courtyard of Palazzo Doria Pamphilj. This hidden gem offers a refined yet relaxed setting at the heart of the palazzo, in a magical courtyard.
Best time of day
This walking tour through Rome can be enjoyed at any time of day. Whether you're soaking in the morning calm, the midday bustle, or the golden glow of evening, each hour offers a unique perspective.
However, for the most comfortable experience, consider starting early morning or late afternoon. These times offer cooler temperatures and fewer crowds.
Keep in mind that most churches, monuments, and museums are open 9 AM to 5 PM, but hours can change unexpectedly, so flexibility is key.
Precautions
Rome is a fantastic city for solo exploration, but a few smart precautions can make your walking tour safer and more enjoyable. Pickpocketing can happen in crowded spots like Termini Station, buses, or tourist sites. Use a crossbody bag with zippers and keep valuables close. Wear good walking shoes and modest attire, especially when entering churches.
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