Must see – Piazza and Basilica of Santa Maria in Trastevere

Basilica open daily 7.30 am to 1 pm and 4 to 7 pm

Tram 8 from Largo Argentina or H bus from Termini to first stop after crossing Tiber

bus 23 or 280 to Ponte Sisto/Piazza Trilussa 

You will never forget the first time you emerge from Trastevere’s narrow warren of twisting streets into the stunning piazza of Santa Maria in Trastevere. The church positively gleams with its golden medieval mosaics and sculptural group of Baroque saints who seem to be vogueing above the piazza to some unheard dance track. It is certainly one of the most unforgettable places in Rome, and a great place to spend an evening. 

The basilica itself dates back to ancient Rome –this may have been the first church where Christianity was practiced openly. Under the portico, you will find many of the stones once adorning Rome’s early Christian catacomb tombs and other beautiful examples of ancient stonework. Inside is a veritable treasure trove of art and artefact, and you can sometimes catch an impromptu organ recital or a mass in English. This church is also home to the community of Sant’ Egidio, one of Rome’s best known and most active charitable organizations. 

Outside, you can grab a spremuta d’arancia (fresh-squeezed orange juice), cocktail or even dinner in one of the pricy-but-cool-for-people-watching establishments surrounding the piazza. Or, if you’re feeling a bit Bohemian – or it Rome is simply burning a hole in your wallet – do the traditional Trastevere thing: BYOB and hang out by the piazza’s imposing octagonal fountain. Musicians and performers are known to frequent this lively corner of Rome, and you just might get a show. At the very least, an evening in this unforgettable square will undoubtedly leave an enduring impressions of Rome.