26 of the most beautiful places in Rome
Mary QuincyPonte Sant'Angelo
‘Ponte Sant'Angelo is by far one of the most beautiful bridges in Rome. If you’re standing on it, or on the banks to admire it, you’ll catch the best views of Castel Sant’Angelo. It is always crowded but that doesn’t take away from the magic.’
Mary QuincyTrastevere
‘This might be Rome’s most romantic neighbourhood with its narrow streets, colourful façades and secret alleyways. To photograph the charming backstreets, go early in the morning so that you can avoid the crowds.’
Mary QuincySecret cornes
‘Every corner of Rome can be a big surprise. This leaf-covered building in the Trastevere neighbourhood was found randomly while wandering in the alleys of this lovely part of Rome. It’s essential to meander to find the hidden gems.’
Mary QuincySanta Barbara dei Librai
‘If you want to have a break from shopping on Via dei Giubbonari, take a second to photograph this tiny, lovely church, almost sandwiched between its taller neighbours. The interior is as lovely as the outside.’
Mary QuincyDoorways
‘Whenever a gate or door is open, curiosity calls and I think it could be a “secret gateway” to a great photo. Doors can become frames, creating a contrast between the bright, colourful light of the exterior and the more obscure courtyard within.’
Mary QuincyVia del Governo Vecchio/Cantina e Cucina
‘Some of the best restaurants in Rome are also some of the most photogenic spots in the city. Add in a bicycle, a vespa or a pile of little crates and you’ve got yourself a lovely shot that instantly transports you to the streets of Rome.’
Mary QuincyPiazza Navona
‘This is one of the largest squares in the city and a big tourist spot. There are so many details to be photographed here, whether it’s the beautiful Fontana dei Quattro Fiumi (the big central fountain), the street artists, the architecture or the row of restaurants.’
- DestinationsThe best restaurants in Puglia, Italy
Mary QuincyFontana di Trevi
‘The most iconic fountain in Europe needs no introduction. The Trevi Fountain is one of the most popular spots in the city and it’s easy to see why. To enjoy the beauty from every angle without bumping into people, it’s best to photograph it very early in the morning, before the sun rises fully.’
Mary QuincyTrattoria Scavolino/Vicolo Scavolino
‘Every corner of Rome hides something pretty. Just a few steps away from the Trevi Fountain, this adorable restaurant is almost invisible to tourists and offers the perfect romantic shot.’
Mary QuincyFaçades
‘The light in Rome is simply magical. When photographing a city, remember to look up: the perspective of a street, the different colours of its façades and the light is always a great combination.’
Mary QuincyDoors
‘You could make a 300-page photography book just by taking photos of Roman doors. All of them are differently shaped, coloured and so detailed. They’re all unique in their own way.’
- DestinationsThe best restaurants in Puglia, Italy
Mary QuincyGreenery
‘Trees and plants can be a great element for photography. Hiding, covering or adding to a background, they add a great range of colour to the image. Luckily, Romans love greenery so you’ll find plenty of foliage opportunities around the city.’
Mary QuincyHotel Campo de’ Fiori/Via del Biscione
‘During the summer, this is by far one of the most beautiful hotels in Rome. Covered in leaves, it creates the perfect contrast with the surrounding façades. It almost feels like the hotel is hiding. Rome is different in every season, but it’s worth seeing this place in the hotter months.’
Mary QuincyAntica Osteria Rugantino/Via della Lungaretta
‘Every restaurant exterior in Trastevere could be a film set; every detail makes you want to pop inside. The Antica Osteria Rugantino is the perfect example, with its Vespa, barrels and leaf-covered exterior.’
Mary QuincyGalleria Sciarra
‘If you love Art Nouveau, escape the Trevi Fountain buzz and walk a few steps to the Galleria Sciarra. Look up to marvel at the architecture and picture-perfect perspective of this courtyard: all the colorful frescoes are eye-catching and you’ll definitely try to capture them from every angle possible.’
- DestinationsThe best restaurants in Puglia, Italy
Mary QuincyDoria Pamphilj Gallery
‘The Palazzo Doria Pamphilj has one of the biggest art collections in the city. But if you just want to find a quiet place to relax, the courtyard is the perfect spot. The columns, arches and the beautiful trimmed trees in the centre create a delightful atmosphere and a fantastic opportunity for pictures.’
Mary QuincyView of Altare della Patria
‘One of the most original ways to capture the Altare della Patria in Piazza Venezia is from a side street, which gives you the perspective you need to focus on a few details instead of the whole monument.’
Mary QuincyLargo di Torre Argentina
‘This archaeological site right in the centre of the city creates the perfect contrast between past and present. From each side of the site you can capture this history, which is such an important part of Rome. Fun fact: a colony of cats has made its home in these ruins.’
Mary QuincyChurches
‘There are more than 900 churches in Rome and they are all beautiful inside and out. To capture their best side, it’s great to have other elements in front or in the background – trees, for example, can create a frame. Sunset light reflecting on the church’s window can also add something special to your photo.’
- DestinationsThe best restaurants in Puglia, Italy
Mary QuincyColosseum
‘The Colosseum might be one of the most photographed buildings in Rome, but light is the key to add a certain glow to this iconic monument. To avoid the crowds and get the best light, wake up early and head up to the Giardinetto Del Monte Oppio. Or if you want to experiment with long exposure shots, go at night’.
Mary QuincyPantheon
‘The Pantheon in Rome is a beautiful monument worth seeing – but it can be difficult to capture as there are often crowds around it. Experiment with perspectives and light and you’ll be able to find a way to photograph without being frustrated by hordes of people.’
Mary QuincyAristocampo Trastevere/Via della Lungaretta
‘Aristocampo is not just a great restaurant, it also has the cutest front door that stops you in your tracks and makes you wonder if you have more room for another delicious Italian meal.’
Mary QuincyEnoteca Bortone/Via di Monserrato
‘Even in the rain, Rome remains one of the most photogenic cities in the world. And usually it means there are fewer people outside walking around. Take this opportunity to play with puddle reflections. No sun also means no shadows and if you like your photos to look a bit brighter or more colourful, it’s much easier to edit façades and buildings without having to worry about a big shadow and highlight contrast.’
- DestinationsThe best restaurants in Puglia, Italy
Mary QuincyPiccolo Gioiello/Via Sant'Andrea delle Fratte
‘This bright-red Citroën 2CV will add a pop of colour to any image! Little Fiat 500 cars are more frequently seen around the city but you can get lucky and find beautiful vintage models.’
Mary QuincyL' Antico Forno Di Fontana di Trevi
‘This lovely café is located only a few steps away from the Trevi Fountain and is the perfect coffee-break spot after shooting the fountain early in the morning. After getting a delicious Italian espresso, grab your camera and capture the outside. It’s the archetypal Italian café exterior.’
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