This two hour leisurely stroll goes through some of the most lively and characteristic neighborhoods in Rome, designed to show Rome at its best-at night. This itinerary is designed to give the client not just background about the history of these areas and its structures but of the life that goes on around these spaces as well. Equal time will be dedicated to the more seminar-like discussions about the churches, palazzos and piazzas and the daily life aspect. This itinerary is a great way to start your Roman adventure and situate yourself in the city, learning and enjoying in equal measure.

The walk begins in one of the most famous public spaces in Rome, Piazza Navona. The political and historical background of the piazza is discussed as well as its modern incarnation as a magnet for street performers and visitors in search of that perfect outdoor caf� seat with the direct view of Bernini�s fabulous fountain. We continue on to the side streets around Piazza Navona, which in recent years has morphed into a very hip area crammed with wine bars, art galleries and funky designer clothes stores. Important churches, such as Santa Maria della Pace and Chiesa Nuova, and civic buildings will be pointed out along the way, giving social and historical depth to the area. We may explore the elegant streets of via Giulia and via Monserrato which are both filled with Renaissance palazzos, Baroque churches, and artisan workshops or head to the area of the Campo de� Fiori which is one of the busiest piazzas in Rome filled with young and old, tourists and locals, students and workers at all hours of the day and night. If time allows, we will end the walk on the picturesque Ponte Sisto, which offers great views of the Tiber in both directions, a glimpse of the cupola of St. Peter and a gateway to another exciting Roman neighborhood, Trastevere.

This is an orientation level walk, led by one of the younger docents in our network. We will spend a certain amount of time explaining the sites along the route; but we will also try to situate you in the city, orient you to the major areas, and answer any of your questions. In short, it is an excellent walk to take at the beginning of your stay here.