Drooling over the fantasy of living the Italian dream? Fear you can’t scrape together the change on a measly student budget? Fret not, this guide to student favourites in Rome and a fistful of euros is all you need.
FAVOURITE APARTMENT
Via dei Leutari, 29, Rome, 00186, Italy
By hook or by crook we managed to find an idyllic apartment in Pairone. This neighbourhood was the ultimate student hub. Our apartment was nestled down a quaint alleyway, a mere stone’s throw away from the hustle and bustle. Restaurants galore greeted us on the adjacent cobbled streets, with my particular favourite being Mastrociccia. The food here is mouth-watering, with only the finest, most delectable, Italian pizzas gracing the menu. I had to return twice to scoff the heavenly Margherita adorned with crispy pancetta.
The apartment itself was nothing short of a sensation. There were four of us, and if you’re not opposed to wedging two in a double bed, it’s ideal. It bestows the perfect cocktail of rooms: two bedrooms, a kitchen/ communal space, and (brace yourself) a large balcony with tables and chairs. The view is incredible, the price affordable, and the quality unbelievable.
FAVOURITE SECOND-HAND SHOP - PIFEBO VINTAGE
Via dei Valeri 10, Rome, Italy
Rome, if you know where to look, beholds a haven of the most stylish second-hand garments. My personal favourite was Pifebo Vintage (kilo sale). Not only did I snatch up some of the chicest additions to my wardrobe in these fashion treasure troves, but also the cheapest. If you are prepared to hunt, you could just find yourself the frock of fantasy, a treasure trove of trousers, and some jewellery gems.
FAVOURITE NIGHT - SCHOLARS LOUNGE IRISH PUB
Via del Plebiscito, 101B, 00186 Roma RM, Italy
Rome was still on the cusp of Covid when I visited. Alas, this meant that nightlife options were slightly limited. However, we did happen to stumble across a karaoke bar like none other ‘Scholars Lounge Irish pub.’ Don’t be deceived by the ‘Irish pub’ branding, since in
going to Rome presumably you are trying to shed all association with England: This is in fact a local’s hub, crammed full with only the crème de la crème of passionate karaoke lovers in the land. If a night belting the most criminal songs you can think of with your friends tickles your fancy, this is the place for you.
FAVOURITE DINNER - LA TAVERNA DE’MERCANTI
Piazza dei Mercanti, 3, 00153 Roma RM, Italy
Slotted amidst the scenic streets surrounding the church of Saint Cecilia, this restaurant has both the warm atmosphere and delectable food to warrant the price. Perfect for a last meal in Rome, if you want to splash the cash on a red-wine tinted, Roman music infused, scrumptious food filled evening, this is the place for you. There is a band tinkering on the guitar among other instruments that sets the scene perfectly. But above all, the food is delicious. I scoffed the Spaghetti Vongole and couldn’t recommend it more.
FAVOURITE GELATO – CAFFÉ MINERVA
Via della Minerva, 8, 00186 Roma RM, Italy
A friendly neighbour to the Pantheon, this gelato is nothing short of a sensation. Tickle your taste buds with the magnificent mango, or, if you are more explorative, the matcha flavour. We happened to stumble upon this amazing place tired and sweaty after exploring the
Pantheon and it was the ultimate rejuvenation station. The owner, who is also the only employee, is charming, and will chat to you about all things Roman if you are willing to engage.
SO....
If this has wet your Roman appetite with dreams of Red wine and pasta, or soaring through the streets on a moped, then why not make your dream a reality this summer? As a student, I can assure you that doing as the Romans do is every bit as charming as it sounds. Follow us on instagram @the_wanderingstudents for updates about blog posts and DM us if you want to get involved!
By Rosie Beckwith-Smith
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