6 Things To Do In Rome For Every Plus Size Traveler

“Rome will exist as long as the Coliseum does; when the Coliseum falls, so will Rome; when Rome falls, so will the world.”

-Venerable Bede, Saint

Rome is one of those cities that there is something for everyone and I’m not just talking about food! Every nook and cranny of Rome is full of history and a feast for the eyes. Even just wandering the streets is an adventure. You never know what you will see from the hidden frescos on a seemingly random wall to the graffiti and don’t forget about the sounds and smells.

Here are 6 things that are 100% fat-friendly for any plus size traveler to enjoy while in Rome! PS I didn’t include the classics like visiting the iconic Coliseum, Forums and more because this would be a very long listicle… 🙂

1. Eating a Gelato

Let me start this off with saying that you should, in fact, eat as much gelato as you can when not just in Rome but Italy in general. A little tip from us to you… Do not pay more than 3 euros for two scoops. If you do, you’re being ripped off. Do not do that. When you do get a gelato, make sure to get it in a cone and eat it while you walk around. Look at everything and at no one so you can lick in peace. Try all the flavors or just stick with your favorites. Gelato is delicious any time of year!

2. Comfy Shoes Needed

Plan a day to just walk around Rome. Put comfy shoes on (don’t forget Rome is full of cobblestone streets so make sure ya got some cushion for the soles) and forgo the 7 euro 24-hour public transportation pass and walk instead. Most tourist attractions are within walking distances of one other. Not only is it a great way to see the city but you stumble upon things that you would have missed otherwise. When you’re tired and need to rest your weary feet, make sure to stop at a café, get a drink (or gelato #1) and rest. Walk until you’re moody and then take an Uber back to wherever you’re staying.

3. Villa Borghese Gardens

Wanting a more laid back day and don’t have anywhere to go ? The Villa Borghese Gardens are the place for you. It’s Rome’s 3rd largest park in the city and is loved by the Romans. You can rent a bike (including electric) and cycle all around or walk the 80 hectares of greenery full of pine trees.

In addition to the ancient pine trees, you can also enjoy museums, gardens, a cinema, a small artificial lake, sculptures, monuments and believe it or not there is more… Here are just a few things to do in the park itself:

Rome has a few classic dishes that are a must when visiting that have all been tested by yours truly. Get ready to drool a bit reading the following descriptions:

Cacio e Pepe

In recent years this dish has taken the social media world by storm but it has been around long before Instagram. It is a simple dish which is what Italy does best if I’m being honest.  It’s made from pecorino romano and fresh black pepper that’s swirled with pasta water to make a rich and spicy sauce, which is then mixed into hot, perfectly al-dente pasta.

Spaghetti alla Carbonara

A personal favorite of mine is the Roman carbonara. Which is light and refreshing, made from pasta tossed in raw egg and cheese and pancetta. Unlike the Carbonara in the US, this pasta is not very heavy but oh so tasty.

Fiori de Zucca

Let’s face it, anything fried is delicious but did you know that zucchinis actually have flowers? Fiori de Zucca are the long-stemmed, bright yellow flowers of the male zucchini (who knew that there were female and male zucchinis?!). They are traditionally stuffed with mozzarella and a sliver of anchovy then dipped in pastella (Italian-style batter) and fried. This counts as a vegetable right?!

Artichoke

When one thinks of Italy it’s normally just pizza, pasta and wine that comes to mind but believe it or not, a dish so popular involves the most unlikely of produce… Artichoke! Make sure to head to the historic Jewish quarter where you’ll find carciofi alla romana (artichokes simmered with oil and herbs) on just about every menu. It’s a delicious and perfect way to start your meal or even as a little afternoon snack.

Amatriciana Pasta

This tomato-based pasta also features crispy guanciale (almost like bacon) and is typically served with bucatini noodles, which are similar to thicker, hollow spaghetti.

Having an aperitif at café bar and if weather permits try and do it outside. Enjoy people watching as you sip on your Aperol Spritz (an Italian classic). Most places will serve snacks with your drink order and depending on the place these can be almost a mini meal which can also save you some money too!

5. Toss a Coin in Trevi Fountain

I know, people think this place is overrated and a total tourist trap but guess what, IT’S OKAY TO BE A TOURIST. There is something fun and hopeful about Trevi and whether you believe in the myth of it or not, I always find myself tossing a coin in. For those that don’t know the myth let me catch you up real quick…

The original legend says that if you throw a coin into the Trevi with your back to the fountain, using your right hand and throwing the coin over your left shoulder means you will return to Rome. A newer story say throwing one coin means a return to Rome, a second coin leads to a new romance, and a third coin leads to marriage.

A little tip, enter on the left-hand side as it is never as crowded for some reason and the view is just as good.

6. Get lost

Whenever I go to Rome and I choose to get lost/wander in general direction towards something. Why? Because I have always discovered something new from a breathtaking view of the Vatican at a distance to a direct and cheaper train to the bus station or even just a good place to get food or a really pretty corner to take a picture of like the below. I’ve stumbled upon a courtyard full of orange trees and the prettiest of frescos over doors all from just getting lost!

That’s it but to be honest, there is so much to do in Rome and we recommend a few days so that you can see and eat it all!

What would make it onto your list of things you love to do in Rome? Tell me below!

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