The Unplanned Rome Break: A Slow Getaway with Secrets, Shopping, and a Lakeside Surprise

Rome isn’t always about ticking off monuments and chasing crowds. And to be fair, the number of people visiting during the summer months is ridiculous! Sometimes, it’s about slowing down, wandering without a map, and finding beauty in the in-between moments. This recent trip was a return to the Eternal City—but not as a tourist. This time, I experienced Rome as a quiet indulgence: a walking city, a shopping haven, and the gateway to one of the most magical lake towns I’ve ever seen.

Our base was the charming Liberty Boutique Hotel, a serene 4-star escape just minutes from Termini Station but tucked away from the bustle. With our own private terrace and personalized breakfast each morning, it felt more like staying in a friend’s elegant townhouse than a hotel. The staff made everything feel intimate, effortless, and special—true Roman hospitality with style.

Rome does invites you to walk. From cobbled alleys to elegant piazzas, we let our feet lead the way. No strict itinerary—just the joy of finding artisan boutiques in Monti, stumbling upon independent galleries, and feeling like a local eating Gelato in the charming Trastevere neighborhood. Shopping became an organic part of the experience. Italy is known for great fashion in little hidden boutiques. Stay away from the fast fashion bigger brands and look out for those unique items no one else will have in their closet other than you. This Roman getaway, unplanned, wasn’t about seeing more—it was about feeling more. About reconnecting with a city I thought I knew and discovering it all over again, one quiet moment at a time. From terrace breakfasts to lakeside caves, this was Rome with space to breathe.

Accommodation Tip: This is my second time in the “Liberty Boutique Hotel”. If you didn’t know about it, you would never find it by accident. I love that its walking from the main train station Termini and even the central sights but still tucked away in a quiet street in a lovely neighborhood. There are only 25 rooms in this lovely old style Italian townhouse. The white interior and super clean walkways create a feel of luxury. The entire staff treatment was intimate and personalized. I do recommend choosing the deluxe room with Terrace as the rooms are normally on the smaller side and the terrace completely enhanced the experience.

Excursion Tip #1: For a breath of fresh air, we took a spontaneous ride to Castel Gandolfo, a peaceful town perched over Lake Albano. Known as the Pope’s summer residence, it’s a beautiful contrast to Rome’s urban sprawl—quieter, greener, and utterly scenic. But the real surprise? A restaurant we stopped at opened a door to a cave underneath—yes, a full cave—completely unexpected and breathtaking. Dining above ancient stone chambers? Only in Italy.

Excursion Tip #2: Moments of Grace: The Papal Tombs Without a Queue. Back in the city, we were blessed with one of those rare travel moments—visiting the tomb of the last Pope without a single queue. No rush, no noise, just a quiet pause in a sacred space that stays with you. Pope Francis is buried in the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore (St. Mary Major) and not in the Vatican. Beyond the opportunity to visit this beautiful church it was also a chance to see what the Pope meant to the people standing in the long ques waiting to pay their respects.

Gastronomy Tips: Its not too difficult when it comes to Italian cuisine to find good food in the city or beyond however if I had to choose these are my personal favourites:

Trattoria DELL’OMO- Admit I would never have entered this small family style Roman trattoria in our neighbourhood if it wasn’t for my Italian bestie who totally recommended it. Within walking minutes from our hotel, this place opened at 19:30 in the evening was filled within minutes. It seemed mostly known to the locals who probably visit the place frequently. We ordered their top dishes Spaghetti Alla Carbonara and the potato gnocchi and wow. I totally could have eaten there every night! Their homemade tiramisu was to die for.

Arte E Vino- Upon our visit to Castel Gandolfo, the kind receptionist at our hotel suggested this restaurant for lunch. What made me curious is the fact the place is built on an underground cave which leads from one side of the restaurant to the other AND you can even sit and dine down there. Interesting right? Well, it was indeed a perfect choice. Beyond the cozy old-style furniture and surrounding and the cool cave to wander in, the food was DELICIOUS. I tried for the first time spaghetti served in lemon and it was the freshest pasta I ever had. If you are around this one, is a must!

Maio Restaurant & Rooftop- Back in the city center, at the top of the famous La Rinascente department store, this restaurant and rooftop are not the cheapest option but for sure a perfect sunset, end of day drink and dinner option. The view of the Rome rooftops combined with exquisite ambiance and food, was a perfect ending to a shopping tour in the lower floors. This upscale department store holds famous chic brands and if you are lucky, you can strike a “deal”. Even without purchasing anything, a walk through the fragrant floors before you venture up for a drink is a perfect spend of a couple of free hours away from the Rome crowds.