The sun is shining. You’re strolling past some of the world’s most stunning historical attractions. There’s only one thing missing from this scene – gelato.
Rome is the unofficial home of ice cream – they just know how to do it best. To complete your perfect Italian adventure, check out any of the following parlours to taste some of the best gelato in Rome…
Il Gelato di San Crispino
This place is one of the original gourmet ice cream parlours in the city, and where it all began. It costs around €7 for a large artisan scoop, and the unique flavours include fresh walnut and fig, licorice, and ginger and cinnamon. You can even try warm ice cream here. There are two branches to choose from at Piazza della Maddalena 3 (Pantheon) and Via della Panetteria 42 (Trevi Fountain).
Weekdays – Red, Stop: Trevi Fountain / Spanish Steps
ilgelatodisancrispino.com
Fatamorgana
Bored of vanilla, strawberry and chocolate? Then why not try something a little different? Fatamorgana gelateria offer some seriously unique flavours. If you’re up for a tastebud adventure, try black rice and rose petal, wasabi, avocado and basil flavoured ice cream. You’ll also find that many of the flavours are vegan and gluten-free. There are a number of branches around the city, so try the ones at Via Roma Libera 11 (Trastevere) and Piazza degli Zingari (Monti).
Catacombs & Caracalla Circuit – Purple Route, Stop: Basilica Santa Maria Maggiore
gelateriafatamorgana.com
Gelateria del Teatro
If there’s a long queue outside a venue – you know it’s a good sign. This popular parlour’s list of flavours changes daily and there are plenty of favourites to choose from. Pick the dark chocolate and wine or fennel and caramelised onions for something a bit different. It’s located right next to the old theatre, so you can sit on the stone steps and enjoy the romantic setting. Find it on the Via dei Coronari.
Weekdays – Red, Stop: Vatican
gelateriadelteatro.it
Gelateria dei Gracchi
Avoid the real tourist traps around St Peter’s Basilica and head for Gelateria dei Gracchi. It’s regularly rated as one of the top parlours in the city, and boasts a flavour list that follows the seasons. In the summer, you can enjoy fresh flavours like apple and mint, and in the cooler seasons, you can feast on rich flavours like rum-spiked chocolate. Try the pear and caramel covered with toasted pistachio nuts – it’s always a favourite with customers. There are a number of shops to choose from at Via dei Gracchi, Via di Ripetta or Viale Regina Margherita.
Weekdays – Red, Stop: Vatican
gelateriadeigracchi.it
Ciampini
This elegant little place on the Piazza San Lorenzo isn’t exactly hip or fancy. There are no crazy flavours or ambitious combinations, just classic Italian gelato the way it’s supposed to be. Sample traditional flavours like pistachio and chocolate, with tiny bits of candied fruit mixed in for a little extra surprise. At this real local joint, you won’t find hoards of tourists – just incredible ice cream.
Weekdays – Red, Stop: Trevi Fountain / Spanish Steps
ciampini.com
Neve di Latte
Make your way to the northern suburb of Flaminio and ask for Ermanno di Pomponio’s gelateria. The locals will all know what you’re talking about. Again, there are no crazy flavours, just the classics. But, they really deliver them well. Pick up a cone of chocolate or hazelnut for around €2.50 and you won’t be disappointed you made the effort to find it.
facebook.com/NevedilatteRomaFlaminio
Sightseeing and gelato go hand-in-hand in Italy’s capital city. So, make sure you’ve got a cone in your hand when you’re strolling past the Trevi Fountain, the Spanish Steps and the Colosseum. Taste your way around these top gelato spots and discover some truly unique flavours.
