Tucked away in a quiet little street just behind the grand Piazza Venezia, this penthouse is the perfect home base for our Roman adventure. The moment we step into the apartment, we feel a sense of calm – not always easy to find in a city as vibrant and bustling as Rome. The spacious layout, tastefully styled interior, and incredibly well-equipped kitchen make it feel more like a private residence than a rental. From the terrace, we spot a little piece the dome of the Pantheon glinting in the sunlight – a daily reminder of just how close we are to some of the most iconic historical wonders in the world.
The beds are wonderfully comfortable (a welcome treat after long days of exploring!), and the living room offers soft, cosy sofas that make it tempting to stay in with a glass of wine and some local treats. But of course, outside the door, Rome waits.
We start our journey in Vatican City – the smallest country in the world and home to centuries of religious and artistic heritage. We go early in the morning to avoid the heaviest crowds, and the timing is perfect: shafts of golden light fall through the windows of St. Peter’s Basilica, illuminating Michelangelo’s Pietà. For families visiting, remember to wear something that covers the shoulders – dress codes are enforced. It’s a great spot to talk to kids about how Vatican City even prints its own stamps and has the shortest railway in the world!
Another unforgettable stop is the Pantheon, just a short walk from the apartment. We arrive mid-morning, just as the sun begins streaming through the massive oculus in the dome – the only source of natural light in this ancient Roman temple. It is fascinating to share with the kids that the Pantheon is nearly 2,000 years old, and that it still holds the world record for the largest unreinforced concrete dome. Standing there and watching the light shift on the floor feels almost magical.
Of course, we don’t miss the Colosseum – best visited early in the day before it gets too hot or crowded. Built nearly 2,000 years ago for gladiator battles and public spectacles, it’s easy to imagine the roars of 50,000 Romans cheering from the stands. The kids are especially intrigued to learn that some of the "special effects" used during shows include trap doors and even staged sea battles!
The impressive Colosseum
Close by, the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill offer a more relaxed pace, with beautiful walking paths through ancient ruins and panoramic views over the city. This is the place where Rome begins, quite literally – according to legend, Romulus founds the city on Palatine Hill in 753 BC.
We also climb to the top of the Monumento a Vittorio Emanuele II (also known as the "wedding cake" building), taking the glass elevator to the terrace for a 360-degree view of Rome – truly breathtaking. From there, the rooftops of the Eternal City stretch out like a painting.
A female allegorical figure on top of the Monumento a Vittorio Emanuele II, symbolizing Liberty or Unity
One of our favorite evenings is spent wandering through Trastevere, the former working-class neighborhood turned bohemian hotspot, with its narrow cobbled lanes and lively piazzas. We find a family-friendly pizzeria and sit outdoors, enjoying thin-crust Roman pizza as locals play music nearby. It’s the kind of place where children are always welcome, and nobody’s in a rush.
As for the Trevi Fountain – it is incredibly beautiful, especially with the late afternoon sun bouncing off the marble, but also incredibly crowded. If you're visiting with kids, go as early as possible (before 9am is ideal) for a more peaceful experience and a better chance to toss your coin in without bumping into twenty other people doing the same.
Back at the penthouse, it is always a joy to return, kick off our shoes, and take in the view from the terrace once more. The location couldn't be more central, yet the space feels serene – the perfect contrast to the energy of the streets below. It gives us all the luxury of comfort with the excitement of Rome at our doorstep.
A few small things to note: the little elevator up to the apartment is quite an adventure in itself – definitely part of the Roman charm, but perhaps not ideal for the claustrophobic. And one of the sinks and mirrors in the bathroom is set very low – handy for younger kids, but for our tall daughters it means quite a bit of bending!
WOW
# A stunning terrace with a view of the Pantheon – the perfect spot for morning coffee or an evening aperitivo.
# Walking distance to almost all major sights, with a beautifully calm and comfortable space to return to.
# A dream kitchen and lovely beds – this penthouse truly feels like a luxurious Roman home.
