Rome is a culinary paradise, but dining out can quickly drain your travel budget if you’re not careful. This guide will help you navigate Rome’s food scene like a savvy local, enjoying delicious meals without emptying your wallet.

General Tips for Budget Dining in Rome

Let’s start with some money-saving basics:

• Watch out for package deals: Stay away from “slasher” establishments that advertise themselves as “Bar/Restaurant” or offer a wide range of cuisines. These places often serve subpar, overpriced food and often are catering to tourists. Instead, look for dedicated “ristorante” or “trattoria” establishments for a more authentic experience.

• Ask about off-menu specials: Always ask about “house specials” and their prices before ordering, especially if they’re not listed on the menu. Be wary of “market price” items, which can often lead to sticker shock.

• Be specific about food quantities: When ordering pizza by the slice or other foods sold by weight, be clear about how much you want. Use the phrase “un piccolo” if you only want a small portion.

• Beware of extras: Some restaurants charge for bread baskets, water, or additional guests. Ask about these potential charges before ordering.

• Take it away: To-go prices are often much cheaper than sit-down prices. For instance, drinking your coffee standing at the bar like a local can cost less than twice the cost of sitting at a table.

Hungry? Photo: kentwang

Street Food: The Cheapo Traveler’s Best Friend

Rome’s incredible street food scene allows you to sample delicious local specialties at very affordable prices. Here are some must-try options if you’re planning to enjoy some budget dining in Rome:

Trapizzino: A modern Roman street food consisting of a triangular pocket of pizza bianca stuffed with traditional fillings. This delicious treat costs around €3.50-5 each.

Pizza al Taglio: Pizza by the slice, a Roman institution. Expect to pay €2-5 for a satisfying slice. We recommend stopping by Zucchero Farina (Near Via Giulia at Via dei Banchi Vecchi, 105), which is open daily from 8 a.m.-8 p.m. and also has delicious pastries for dessert.

Supplì: Fried rice balls typically filled with ragù and mozzarella. Each one usually costs €1-3.

Porchetta Sandwiches: Savory, boneless pork roast served on crusty bread. This is delicious and filling option that costs around €5-6 per sandwich.

Cheapo tip: When trying street food, look for places with a steady stream of local customers. That can only mean good things…

Best Budget-Friendly Restaurants in Rome

Dig into fresh, affordable pasta in Rome. Photo: Gabriella Clare Marino

While street food is great for a quick bite, sometimes you want to sit down for a proper meal. Rome offers a wide array of budget-friendly restaurants that serve delicious, authentic cuisine without breaking the bank. Here’s a list of some of the best options, organized roughly by neighborhood:

Centro Storico (Historic Center)

Armando Al Pantheon
Salita dei Crescenzi, 31
Website: https://www.armandoalpantheon.it/
Price Range: $$

This restaurant is known for its excellent cacio e pepe and its prime location near the Pantheon. It offers traditional Roman cuisine in a cozy setting.

Pane e Salame
Via di Santa Maria in Via 19
Website: https://www.facebook.com/panesalameroma/
Price Range: $

Pane e Salame is great for quick, affordable sandwiches. They specialize in cured meats and cheeses.

Campo de’ Fiori Area

Forno Campo de’ Fiori
Campo de’ Fiori, 22
Website: https://www.fornocampodefiori.com/
Price Range: $

This bakery is famous for its pizza al taglio. Slices start from €2.50, making it a budget-friendly option in the heart of Rome.

Trastevere

Pizzeria La Boccaccia
Via di Santa Dorotea, 2
Price Range: $

This pizzeria offers excellent pizza al taglio at affordable prices. It’s a favorite among Trastevere residents and visitors alike.

Near the Spanish Steps

Pastificio
Via della Croce, 8
Price Range: $

Pastificio offers heaping plates of pasta for only €5 between 1 p.m. and 2 p.m. daily. There are two pasta choices each day. But if you don’t get there early enough, you might be left with only one. Remember, it’s technically a pasta shop, so lunch is nothing fancy and is best eaten inside where the pasta is hot and fresh.

Specialized Dining Options

It never hurts to stop for a little gelato. Photo: Özlem Özdemir

Maybe you’re searching for some gelato that won’t break the bank, or you’re hoping to find some more plant-forward dishes. Here are options for budget dining in Rome, even if you have specialized dietary needs or are looking for something particular.

Best Gelaterias in Rome

Gelateria del Teatro
Via dei Coronari, 65-66 (Centro Storico)
Website: https://www.gelateriadelteatro.it/

This gelateria is known for its high-quality, Italian-sourced ingredients and unique flavors. It’s a must-visit for gelato enthusiasts.

Giolitti
Via degli Uffici del Vicario, 40 (Pantheon area)
Website: https://www.giolitti.it/

One of Rome’s oldest gelato shops, established in 1890, Giolitti offers a wide range of traditional and innovative flavors.

Fatamorgana
Multiple locations throughout Rome
Website: https://www.gelateriafatamorgana.com/web/

Fatamorgana is famous for its creative and unique flavor combinations. Prices start from €2.50 for a small cup.

Vegetarian and Vegan Options

Bibliothè
Via Celsa 5
Phone: 0667 814 27
Price Range: $$

This restaurant serves Ayurvedic food, including whole grain and organic pasta. Their daily lunch special is usually around €13.

Buddy’s
Corso Vittorio Emanuele II, 107A
Website: https://buddyroma.com/
Phone: 06 8772 8433
Price Range: $$

Located in the historic center, Buddy’s offers flavorful vegan meals for plant-based lovers and meat-eaters alike, with options ranging from brunch to pasta to pizza.

Il Margutta
Via Margutta, 118
Website: https://ilmargutta.bio/restaurant-2/
Phone: 06 32650577
Price Range: $$

Known as the first vegetarian restaurant in Italy, visitors will find plenty of plant-forward meals. There’s also a daily special that runs from 12-4:30 p.m. that includes two courses, a dessert, bread, and water for €16.

Markets and Picnics

Stop by Campo de’ Fiori Market for picnic essentials. Photo: Genevieve

For an authentic and budget-friendly experience, consider shopping at local markets and having a picnic. After shopping, head to parks like the Borghese Gardens, Aventine Hill, or Janiculum Hill for a picnic with a view.

Here are some top markets in Rome:

Campo de’ Fiori Market
Piazza Campo de’ Fiori (Campo de’ Fiori)

This historic market offers fresh produce, cheeses, and cured meats. It’s open Monday to Saturday from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Mercato Trionfale
Via Andrea Doria 3 (Prati)

One of the largest markets in Rome, Mercato Trionfale offers a wide variety of fresh ingredients. This market is open Monday to Saturday from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Mercato di Testaccio
Via Beniamino Franklin (Testaccio)

This local favorite has excellent produce and prepared food stalls. It’s open Monday to Friday from 7 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. and Saturday from 7 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

Additional Money-Saving Strategies

Check the signs outside of restaurants for daily specials and deals. Photo: Lory

Lunch Specials and “Pranzo di Lavoro”

As with many other European cities, lunch can be a Cheapo’s culinary paradise in Rome. Many restaurants offer affordable lunch menus or “pranzo di lavoro” (worker’s lunch) specials. These are often great value and can be a way to experience higher-end restaurants at a fraction of the dinner price. Look for lunch specials listed outside the restaurant.

Aperitivo Deals

Happy hour, anyone? Look for “aperitivo” deals where you pay for a drink (usually €10-€15) and get access to a buffet of snacks, often substituting for dinner. This can be a great way to sample a variety of Italian appetizers while enjoying a drink in the early evening.

Using Food Apps for Discounts

Apps like TheFork and Too Good To Go can offer significant discounts on restaurant meals and help reduce food waste. Be sure to check these resources before dining out. Who knows what perfectly good treats you could save from going to the bin!

Water-Saving Tips

Basic advice, but it’s still worth stating: Bring your own water bottle and refill at public fountains to save €2-€3 per meal. Rome has numerous “nasoni” (big noses) fountains throughout the city with clean, drinkable water.

Always Get a Receipt

It’s the law in Italy to receive a “Scontrino Fiscale” for all purchases, including food and drink. This official receipt should have the restaurant’s Partita IVA code printed on it. Don’t accept handwritten scraps of paper (trust us, they’ll try!). Not only are you breaking the law without it, but you could well find that the bill’s total suddenly drops when an itemized printed bill has to be produced.

To Tip or Not to Tip

Don’t pay a “servizio” charge if it’s not clearly stated on the menu. Tipping is not obligatory in Italy, as service is usually included in the bill. However, rounding up or leaving a small tip for exceptional service is appreciated.

The Dos and Don’ts to Save on Dining

Dos:

• Stand at the bar in cafes for coffee and pastries, it’s almost always significantly cheaper.
• Reserve tables in advance to avoid wandering into a tourist trap.
• Order local and seasonal specialties for better value.
• Ask waiters for recommendations on local dishes.
• Practice the “scarpetta” tradition in casual eateries (using bread to mop up sauce).

Don’ts:

• Avoid eating at restaurants immediately near major tourist attractions (especially with menus in 10 languages).
• Don’t order cappuccino after morning hours; it’s not customary and may lead to inflated prices.
• Don’t let waiters choose unspecified items for you.
• There’s no need to feel obligated to order a full meal. It’s okay to just have a “primo” or “secondo” course.

Ready to eat?

By following these tips and visiting the recommended establishments, you’ll be able to enjoy Rome’s culinary delights without overspending. From street food to local markets and budget-friendly restaurants to picturesque cafes, Rome offers a wealth of options for the savvy budget traveler. Remember, eating well in Rome doesn’t have to cost a fortune. It just takes a little knowledge and planning. Buon appetito!

The post The Ultimate Guide to Budget Dining in Rome: Eat Like a Local appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.

One sip of an Italian coffee, and it will be hard to go back to Starbucks.

That said, your first time in an Italian café can be confusing if you’re not properly prepped. No worries: Here’s our guide to ordering coffee in Italy like a pro.

More tips for Italy:
• The best budget hotels in Rome 
• An affordable 10-day itinerary through Italy
• Our favorite cheap hotels in Florence

How to order coffee in Italy

1. A cafe is actually called a “bar” in Italy

First, it’s important to know that what we call a “café”, Italians call a “bar”. (What’s especially confusing, but we’ll get to in a minute, is that caffè actually means “coffee”.) You’ll see hundreds of bars around Rome, on almost every corner and sometimes up to three or four in one block. To an untrained eye, you might think Italians have a drinking problem but don’t worry, they’re only coffee addicts!

Related: Our glossary of types of coffee in Rome, with a list of our favorite Roman coffee bars.

2. Drink at the counter: Italians don’t linger

Italians drink their coffee fast, and at the bar. Espresso is an essential, so they don’t waste time sipping while reading the paper or visiting with friends. Instead, they’ll pop into bars five or six times a day for a quick cup, gulped down at the counter over some banter with the barista.

So for an authentic experience, join the masses standing at the bar. The clink of ceramic cups and routine of shaking and stirring sugar packets is endearing, and one you won’t get from a table. If you do feel like sitting, be prepared for a slightly larger bill. It’s usually twice the price if you use table service.

Related: The two best espresso in Rome, steps from the Pantheon

3. Paying systems can vary

This is where it gets a little tricky. Where and how you pay depends on where and how you order. If you’re sitting, you can usually order and pay at the table, but if you’re standing, the rules are murkier. In most cases, you order and pay at the cash register, then bring your receipt to the barista, who will make your order. In other cases, you order at the bar, drink your coffee, and then tell the person at the cash register what you had. As a general rule, try the cash register first, or take a moment to watch what others are doing.

4. A guide to every drink

• Caffè: “Caffe” means “coffee” in Italian, but what you get isn’t filter coffee, but what we call espresso. You can say “espresso” instead of “caffe” if you want.

• Caffè Americano: If you’re looking for filter coffee, this is the closest you’ll get. It’s espresso with hot water added, and probably still a bit stronger than what you’re used to.

• Caffè macchiato: Meaning “stained” or “spotted” coffee, this is an espresso with a dash of hot, foamy milk on top. It’s delicious with a bit of sugar and a perfect afternoon pick-me-up.

• Caffè con panna: Similar to the macchiato, but sweeter, this espresso is topped with sweet whipped cream.

• Caffè corretto: This “corrected” coffee is served with a drop of liquor, usually cognac, grappa or Sambuca, but feel free to add whatever you prefer.

• Caffè shakerato: Delicious in the sweltering summer months, a caffè shakerato is a fresh espresso mixed with sugar and ice, and shaken vigorously like a martini until it froths as it’s poured into a chilled glass. Some people add chocolate syrup, which makes it extra divine.

• Caffè latte: This is espresso with hot milk, just like a latte in the US. But careful to specify the “caffè” part, because “latte” just means “milk”. Many tourists order a “latte” and are shocked when they’re presented with a steaming mug of white milk, much to the confusion of everyone involved. Even ordered correctly though, the caffè latte is not a common drink in Italy, and you might not get what you expect.

• Cappuccino: Saving the best for last! Italy’s most famous coffee drink, the cappuccino is a warm, soothing, perfect ratio of espresso to whole milk, frothed to perfection. One sip and you’ll realize it’s completely different than whatever cappuccino you’re used to, and in a good way. But they come with a caveat—you cannot order them after noon, unless you want to risk being scorned. Italians have a weird thing about drinking cappuccinos only in the morning, and they’ll give you very funny looks if you do otherwise.

You might notice throughout your time in Italy that Italians have strict food rules, and this is one of them. The heavy milk and foam in a cappuccino constitute their breakfast, and they deem cappuccinos far too heavy for an afternoon coffee break. They believe that dairy upsets digestion and they might be right. You’ll never see an Italian order a cappuccino after dinner, yet it’s almost all they drink in the morning.

Maybe they’re onto something, or maybe it’s one of those rituals we’ll never understand, but either way, if you want to fit in, stick to ordering them for breakfast.

Now you’re a pro! And don’t worry if you feel overwhelmed when walking into a bar. Someone will surely offer to assist, and the servers are usually very friendly. The most important thing is that you take in the bar’s atmosphere, breathe in the scent of freshly ground coffee and sweet pastries, and enjoy the taste of real Italian coffee while you can.

Your favorite cafe beverage

What’s your favorite type of coffee in Italy? Let us know in the comments below!

The post How to order coffee in Italy: Navigating cafe culture like a pro appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.

Whatever you think, panini make a very affordable lunch. There are several great places around town where you can grab one while walking between the sights.

First, let’s address some basic concerns–how to order?

Which kind of bread?

When ordering a panino, lots of places, especially if they let you create your ownsandwich (these are truly the best and freshest!) will ask you which type of bread you’d like. Italian bars and cafès often serve different types of breads; here are the most common:

Ciabatta: Literally means “slipper,” it’s long and flat.

Rosetta: Puffy on the outside and shaped like a rosebud, it’s mostly hollow and airy on the inside.

Tartaruga: Gets its name from the word “turtle” because of its hard shell-like form.

Pizza bianca: This is essentially plain pizza bread without any sauce or toppings and tastes a bit saltier than the others.

How much?

How much should you expect to pay for a panino? Typically, a sandwich costs between €2.50-€4.00, depending on the neighborhood. Anything more than that is just a rip off.

Here are a couple of my favorite spots to hit up for a tasty panino:

Bar Amore
Via dei Banchi Nuovi, 41
00186 Rome (Piazza Navona)
Cost: €2.50

Bar Amore has been around since the 1940’s and is a hub for many locals, office workers and students in the area. The place gets crowded in the mornings for breakfast and is also a hot spot for a quick lunch. Unfortunately, there are only a few tables, so many people simply grab their sandwiches to go.

Marco, who I call the “panino man,” is quick at taking your order and whipping your sandwich into lunch art. He’s also handy at making suggestions (in charming, if broken, English) on what would work well for your sandwich. He offers goodies like scamorza cheese, tuna, prosciutto crudo, turkey breast, breaded chicken, hamburger patties, salame and all sorts of mixed grilled and boiled veggies.

If you’re nearby on a Tuesday, you must try the famous porchetta (pork) from Ariccia. It’s spettacolare!

La Sanwicheria al Nazareno
Largo Nazareno, 16/17
00187 Rome (Piazza di Spagna)
Cost: €4

This little sandwich shop just off Via del Tritone between Piazza di Spagnaand the Trevi Fountain opened in 2011 and definitely serves some interesting panini! They charge a bit more than the rest, but the quality of their ingredients definitely justify it. Everything is made fresh to order (as opposed to some bars where nobody knows how long things have been sitting there!).

You can put practically anything on your panino, including arugola, fennel, tartufo, prosciutto crudo, mortadella, and lots of other interesting and yummy ingredients.

Making your own panini from the supermarket

Instead of buying apanino from the bar, you can always buy the ingredients from the supermarket and make one yourself! Almost any supermarket will sell you a few slices of prosciutto crudo, turkey (tacchino) or salame. All you have to ask is for “due o tre fette di _____” and specify which meat you want. This typically won’t run you more than a euro, especially since you’re not buying 100 grams of cold cuts.

Most supermarkets have a bakery where you can pick out your bread. Ordering just one rosetta, ciabatta or a tartaruga will probably set you back between €0.30 and €0.60. If you get a piece of pizza bianca, it could cost you about a euro. They will even slice the bread for you, if you ask.

Lastly, you’ll need to grab some mozzarella. A portion of mozzarella will cost you between €1-€1.50 for the cheapest brand. And voilà! You have your own delicious homemadepanino for about €3! (Also read our article about shopping in a grocery store in Rome.)

Also in our guide: Looking for an affordable place to stay in central Rome? In our guide to Rome you’ll find our editors’ reviews of the city’s best affordable hotels, all located in the city center, near Piazza Navona, Termini Station, the Vatican and other central neighborhoods.

The post Rome Panini: How to find and order the best sandwiches appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.

Before venturing into the supermarket, however, I’ll let you in on a few cultural tips to help your shopping experience go more smoothly. Here are five rules to follow:

Put on the glove! Photo: Nicole Arriag

1. Put on the protective glove

When it comes to picking out your fruits and vegetables, Italians don’t want your grimy hands touching every peach, pear and pineapple. After all, no one knows where your hands have been. That’s why you’ll notice little plastic gloves hanging right beside the produce bags.

I was totally unaware of this the first time I went fruit shopping until I got scolded by another shopper for contaminating her food with my germs. Yikes! You would have thought washing your fruit and veggies when you got home was enough. Apparently not. So, word to the wise: Wear the protective glove when picking out your veggies!

2. Weigh and label your fruit

In Italy, it’s your job (not the cashier’s) to weigh your fruit and vegetables and to adhere the label to the bag. If you haven’t weighed and labeled your bag, you’re in a for a scolding when you get to the checkout line. Don’t be surprised if they send you back to weigh it yourself (or worse, send you to the back of the line).

3. Bag your own groceries

In Rome, the bag boy is you. Baggers don’t exist in Italy and you won’t see the cashier volunteering to help you with your duty. Her job, after all, is to scan your items as fast as she can and keep the line moving. Thus, your items will pile up into a mountain with the next customer waiting anxiously for you to finish. Bag it!

4. Bags aren’t free

Speaking of bagging your groceries, those bags aren’t free. Depending on the store, they can run anywhere from 4 to 10 cents per bag. So be careful about choosing how many bags to take. Of course, you’re welcome to bring your own bags or cart.

5. Line cutting is permitted

Little old ladies are notorious for cutting the line in Italy. No matter how long the line is, it’s not uncommon to see a sweet elderly woman give a cute and clever smile while working her way up the line. Hey, whatever works.

Also, if you have only one or two items to buy, it’s common to ask people to let you cut in front of them. People with carts loaded with groceries are usually willing to let you skip ahead if you only have a couple things in your basket. So don’t be afraid to ask, “Mi scusi, le dispiace se passo avanti per cortesia?”

Other supermarket rules?

Do you have any other shopping rules to add to our list? Add your own in the comments section!

The post Rome: 5 rules for shopping in a Roman grocery store appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.

Thus, take note. Here are some of my favorite gelaterie (some famous and some off-the-beaten path) in Rome:

Giolitti
40, Via degli Uffici del Vicario
Near the Pantheon, Rome
Web site

Walk by this gelateria on any given day and you’ll likely see a crowd standing around waiting for their scoops. The history of the Giolitti dates back to 1890 when the Giolitti family opened up a creamery to sell milk from their Roman pastures. Within a few years the family opened up their gelateria mothership on Via degli Uffici del Vicario, and soon it became “the” ice-cream parlor in Rome. The family is said to still follow the same recipes it used during World War I. Today, Giolitti is a landmark in Rome and hundreds of tourists and locals flock to the gelateria every day for gelato, granitas, coffee and pastries.

San Crispino Gelato. Photo: MMChicago

My favorite here is nocciola (hazelnut). I usually order a small cone (“cono piccolo”), which believe me, is more than enough, as it can be a meal in itself. A small cone will set you back €2.50; a little more expensive than other gelaterie, but worth every cent! You can choose up to three flavors, and they’ll even put whip cream on top.

San Crispino
3, Piazza della Maddalena
Near the Pantheon, Rome

42, Via della Panetteria
Near the Trevi Fountain, Rome
Web site

Ask San Crispino’s customers about what sets their gelato experiences apart from the rest and they’ll likely tell you two things: simplicity and diversity. While some of the flavors are quite different from those you’d expect, the taste and ingredients used are quite simple.

My three favorite flavors at San Crispino are il Gelato di San Crispino (made with honey from Sardegna), zenzero e cannella (ginger and cinnamon) and ricotta. My only complaint is the small portion size. A small cup, with just two flavors, costs €2.30. Unfortunately, San Crispino doesn’t do cones.

Fata Morgana
9/11, Via Lago di Lesina
00199 Rome
Web site

Fata Morgana is by far my favorite gelateria in Rome. Although it’s a little out of the way, located in the Corso Trieste neighborhood near Villa Ada, it’s worth the trip.

Fata Morgana offers nearly 50 flavors ranging from the most common (chocolate, hazelnut, cream and pistachio) to more exotic flavors like semi di papavero (poppy seed), riso latte (rice pudding), cheesecake di mirtillo (blueberry cheesecake), cioccolato kentucky (chocolate “Kentucky,” made with aromatic coffee, liquorish and Kentucky tobacco). A small, two-flavor cone here will set you back €1.50. The waffle cones here are heavenly.

The post Where to find the best gelato in Rome appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.

If there’s something to be said about Italians, one thing’s for certain, they sure know how to churn out a good cup of coffee.

Just about everywhere you turn in Rome, behind every nook, cranny and yes, monument, you will find a coffee bar. To say that Italians are obsessed with coffee is an understatement. And who could blame them? The cappuccinos are just that good.

Amateur coffee drinkers might think there are only two types of java to be ordered in Italy: a cappuccino or espresso (caffè). But nooooo. True caffè connoisseurs know that the best part about Italian coffee is the variety.

Here’s a breakdown of some different types of coffees you will find at a typical bar in Rome:

Cappuccino (“kap-oo-chee-noh”)

Roman cappuccino. Photo: Veer66

The first and the most classic coffee drink on your list is of course, the cappuccino. It is made with espresso, hot milk and a layer of froth on top. No whip cream, sorry! (That’s an American added ingredient. However, you still may be able to order it in some of the more touristy spots in Rome.) Some people have chocolate powder sprinkled on top or a squirt of chocolate syrup on top. Typically, Italians drink a cappuccino in the morning. Never in the afternoon.

*Average price if taken at the bar: €0.80-€1.20

Caffè (“kaf-ey”)

If you want to order an espresso at the bar, you’ll need to ask for “un caffè.” At the bar, a caffè is prepared using an electrical steam machine. Often when serving your caffè, they’ll throw in a small complimentary wrapped chocolate with it.

*Average price if taken at the bar: €0.70-€.80

Caffè macchiato (“kaf-ey mok-ee-aw-toh”)

The term “caffè macchiato” means literally a coffee “stained with milk.” Essentially, it’s an espresso with a shot of milk. Unlike cappuccinos, Italians find it perfectly acceptable to order a caffè or caffè macchiato after lunch.

*Average price if taken at the bar: €0.70-€.80

Caffè lungo (“kaf-ey loon-goh”)

A caffè lungo is a shot of espresso that is stretched out and made with more water. It’s not as strong as the regular espresso, as more water has passed through it.This is not the same thing as a “caffè americano,” which is a shot of espresso with hot water added to it afterwards.

*Average price if taken at the bar: €0.70-€.80

Caffè ristretto (“kaf-ey ree-stray-toh”)

A caffè ristretto is a much shorter coffee than your average espresso, as it allows for less water to pass through the coffee grinds.

*Average price if taken at the bar: €0.70-€.80

Caffè corretto (“kaf-ey koh-rray-toh”)

For the brave ones looking for a little bit of jolt in their java, there is the caffè corretto (a “corrected coffee”). It is essentially a shot of espresso with a shot of liquor inside. Typically grappa, sambuca or brandy is used. And yes, some people do have this at breakfast!

*Average price if taken at the bar: €1.50-€2

Caffè latte (“kaf-ey lah-tay”)

A caffè latte is simply a coffee drink made with espresso and steamed milk (no froth). Unlike in the States, if you order a “latte” at the bar in Italy they will give you just that. A glass of milk. So, remember to ask for a “caffè latte.”

*Average price if taken at the bar: €0.80-€1.20

Latte macchiato (“lah-tay mok-ee-aw-toh”)

Want a whole lot of milk and just a tad bit of coffee? What you want is a latte macchiato. This is a glass of steamed milk with a stain (about a half of a shot of espresso). This drink is different than the caffè latte as the coffee is added to the milk and not the other way around. Another difference is that the caffè latte is usually stirred or mixed, whereas the latte macchiato resembles a drink with layers.

*Average price if taken at the bar: €0.80-€1.20

Caffè marocchino (“kaf-ey mah-roh-kee-noh”)

A shot of espresso made with powdered chocolate with a little bit of milk poured on top, followed by a dabble of whipped cream. Yum!

*Average price if taken at the bar: €0.80-€1.20

Caffè freddo (“kaf-ey frey-doh”)

A shot of espresso that’s pre-sweetened with sugar or sometimes even vanilla while still hot. It is then chilled in the refrigerator. It can be served with or without a cube of ice.

*Average price if taken at the bar: €0.90-€1

Caffè del nonno (“kaf-ey del noh-noh”)

This is a small refreshing coffee drink that’s usually served in the spring and summer. It’s made with pre-sweetened espresso and whipped cream that’s chilled in the freezer for a couple of hours. It’s then thrown in a blender and served in a small espresso-like glass.

*Average price if taken at the bar: €1.80-€2

My favorite coffee bars in central Rome

Here are some of my personal favorite bars in the historic center of Rome where you can order most, if not all of these coffees. Some fancy, some not. But each one makes really, really good coffee.

Caffè Camerino
Largo Arenula, 30 (Largo Argentina)
00186 Rome

Bar Amore
Via dei Banchi Nuovi, 41 (Piazza Navona)
00186 Rome

Antico Caffè della Pace
Via della Pace, 3/7 (Piazza Navona)
00186 Rome

l’Antico Caffè della Pigna
Piazza della Pigna, 24/A (Pantheon)
00186 Rome

Caffè Tazza D’Oro
Via degli Orfani, 84 (Pantheon)
00186 Rome

Caffè Novecento
Via del Governo Vecchio, 12 (Piazza Navona)
00186 Rome

The post What to order at a cafe in Rome: A quick guide to Italian coffee appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.

Many of the most jaw-dropping vistas have been taken over by Rome’s most exclusive hotels, yet there are still a few rooftop gems scattered about the city accessible to Cheapos. The following watering holes on high are definitely worth your while—and they won’t cost you a fortune.

Caffeteria Italia
Via di San Pietro in Carcere
Telephone: 06 6780664

No other place in Rome boasts panoramic views like the terrace of the Vittoriano Monument in Piazza Venezia. True, it will take you nearly 200 steps to schlep to the top of the “Wedding Cake” monument where the “Terrazza delle Quadrighe” (Terrace of the Four-Horse Chariots) is located. But the real treat is the lovely café located on its lower terrace.

Stop in on your way up to enjoy a glass of wine while taking in the views of the Roman Forum and much of the historic center. Alternatively, for those who can’t handle the stairs, there are two glass elevators that will take you to the very top for €7.

Cafe Chiostro
Via della Pace, 26 (behind Piazza Navona)
Telephone: 06 68809035 int.26
Closed Mondays
Web site

Tucked away like a little secret on the second floor of the Chiostro del Bramante church and convent, this charming café offers visitors drinks, coffee and tea at tables overlooking the beautiful cloister. If you decide to pop in for a drink, you’ll have to make it an early one, as the cafeteria closes at 7:30 pm.

Il Fontanone Cocktail Bar del Gianicolo
Via Garibaldi, 35
Telephone: 334 5282284
Closed in the winter
Web site

Tourists flock to the top of the Gianicolo (Janiculum Hill) to get a snapshot of the domes and monuments that dot the Eternal City’s skyline.

After you’ve taken in the picture-perfect view, head to the trendy cocktail bar and enjoy an early evening aperitivo or an after-dinner drink. Aperitivos are usually served from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m., and the price (€10-€20) includes delicious snacks.

Summer Drink Tip: Aperol Spritz

A good Italian cocktail to try during the spring and summer months is an Aperol Spritz. It contains Aperol, a bitter orange alcoholic soda, white wine and sparkling water.

The post Rome: 3 Bars that serve up great views appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.

Lunch by the slice

Simply put, pizza al taglio is thin crusted pizza baked in large rectangular trays. The best part about the pizza is that you’re free to decide how big or small a piece you’d like to take away with you. The pizza then gets cut (sometimes even with scissors), weighed, and then re-heated in the oven and handed off to the customer.

The cost of the pizza depends on the toppings you choose and the weight of the pizza. But it usually only costs a few euros. Common flavors include: pizza margherita (cheese pizza with tomato sauce), pizza bianca (just plain white pizza bread topped with olive oil and salt), pizza con patate (pizza topped with pieces of roasted potatoes), and pizza con würstel (pizza with cheese and sliced hot dogs).

Other toppings include: prosciutto (ham), melanzane (eggplant), alici (anchovies), zucchine (zucchini), salame (pepperoni), and carciofi (artichokes). For a late afternoon snack, you may decide all you want is a striscetta (a strip of pizza).

Needless to say, these pizza al taglio shops are a dime a dozen in Rome, but that doesn’t mean all of them are good. Here are some of my favorite:

Near the Pantheon: Da Remo’s

In the Centro Storico close to the Pantheon, Da Remo’s pizza al taglio does it up nice. His pizza has been attracting crowds since 1970 when he first opened up shop. He truly offers a slice of old Rome. If you pop by around 1 p.m., it’s not unusual to find a line full of teens from a nearby high school yelling, “Give me €2 worth of pizza margherita” inside the tiny pizza shop. The pizza is just that good.

Some of Remo’s specialties are capricciosa (pizza with cheese, egg, ham, olive and artichokes), salame (pepperoni), and pomodori con rucola (cheese with tomatoes and arugula). In the fall and winter when it’s in season, Remo (the pizza butcher) makes a nice pizza with zucca (pumpkin).

Da Remo
Via Piè di Marmo, 32
Open daily for lunch. Closed on Sundays
Cost: €2-€4 a slice (depending on the size and toppings)
Tip: Head to Remo’s before 1 p.m., before the school crowd gets there.

Zucchero Farina

Just a bit further away from the Pantheon, near Via Giulia heading toward the Vatican area, is another great pizza shop called Zucchero Farina (Sugar Flour). This place serves up a wide selection of pizzas with all sorts of unusual but good toppings: broccoli with sausage, asparagus with ham, chard with tomatoes. All of them are yummy. And for €2,50, they’ll make you a sandwich right on the spot using some of their white pizza bread straight out of the oven.

Zucchero Farina
Via dei Banchi Vecchi, 105
Open daily for lunch. Closed on Sundays
Cost: €3-€5 a slice (depending on the size and toppings)
Tip: Top off your pizza with one of their pastries, which are to die for!

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Rome is no stranger to overpriced restaurants catering to tourists. But this doesn’t mean you have to shell out for tasty Italian fare.

A first step toward finding a cheap meal is heading beyond the historic center. The closer to the main tourist path you are, the more likely a restaurant is to charge outrageous prices. Eating like (and with!) the locals is a sure-bet way to keep the costs down.

We’ve shared some authentic Roman restaurant suggestions in this post (and this post), but we certainly haven’t covered all the city’s great eateries and their savory dishes. This is where our resourceful readers come in.

What was your best Roman meal?

Time to share, Cheapos! We want to know about your best meal in Rome. A to-die-for pizza? A pasta dish that didn’t leave your budget in “ruins”?

Leave a comment about your favorite budget-friendly dish—with the restaurant information if possible. We’ll select our favorite tip and send the winner a $25 Amazon.com gift card.

The post Rome Contest: Share your best budget meal appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.

Fear not: Whether you are a wine buff or a wine buffoon,  we are here to help with a short guide to Lazio wines and to the maze of Italian classifications.

Lazio wines

Lazio, the region in which Rome is situated, is not as well known for its wines as other Italian regions such as Tuscany and Abruzzo, but it still has a fair few to sample.

In the 1930s, the Lazio region suffered from boggy, malaria-infested land. However, Mussolini initiated a “bonification” program to make the land usable, which  meant workers from the north brought down local grapes such as Merlot or Cabernet. This has led to a diverse wine industry in the region.

Around 80% of the wines produced in Lazio are white, with the best known being Frascati from the Castelli Wine Region just close to Rome and Est Est Est, from Lake Bolsena, further north towards Umbria. Lovers of red should try a sip of Cesanese del Piglio or look out for the Red Cremere (produced by local vineyard Terre del Veio). There is even a Rosato Risona Rosé wine (which is nothing like the sweet, cloying wine drunk by teenagers at the height of 1970’s sophistication).

Wine Classification System

How do you know if you are buying a wine bargain or something that would be better sprinkled on your chips? Luckily, Italy has its own system for classifying wine quality. Bring along this (not very) serious guide and you will never have to worry again…

DOCG – Denominazione di Origine Controllata e Garantita

This classification denotes the highest quality recognition for Italian wines, and only a few achieve this status. To be sipped seriously without the use of a straw and served on very special occasions such as marriage proposals and honeymoons, or sampled freely and without discretion at wine tastings.

DOC wine – Denominazione di Origine Controllata

Good stuff. Wine that has passed a strict set of tests to ensure its provenance and to ensure that the region’s produce remains distinct. Probably one to buy for a first date or a business lunch, ensuring that the label can be seen at all times.

IGT – Indicazione di Geografica Tipica

General wines that are suitable for the table. These wines are often grown in specific geographical growing regions but without the strict controls of DOC wines. Tend to be of a lesser quality, but excellent DOC wines fall under this to avoid the paperwork for DOC status.  (It’s worth tasting them all to check.) Works well if drunk as a second bottle and/or third.

VdT – Vino Da Tavola

This signifies wines that have met no other criteria than that they were produced somewhere in Italy. Fine in an emergency, but most suitable for buying as a present to take home to relatives or colleagues that you don’t like very much.

And if all that sounds like too much hard work, ask for the house wine, or “vino sfuso,” which costs hardly anything (you should pay around €4 for half a liter) and goes down like a treat. The best advice is just to try as many as you can!

Cheers!

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