The art of Dolce V ita living made its appearance at an evening party in early November 1958. Countess Olghina di Robilant was celebrating her birthday at the Rugantino restaurant when dancer Aïché Nana launched into an unexpected striptease. In the midst of social reconstruction after the Second World War, a few photos leaked to the press, causing a scandal before symbolising the very spirit of La Dolce Vita.
A Vespa, a sunset, a cocktail, Italian music and soothing calm are the essential ingredients for a cliché moment of Dolce Vita. Born in Italy, Dolce Vita is now an international lifestyle synonymous with all kinds of pleasures. Whether through food, attitude, hobbies, relationships or décor, the gentle way of life can be enjoyed at any time of day, by anyone who wants it. Born in Rome, this romantic trend is best shared as a couple: living on love, fresh water... and luxury!
With the monuments, good addresses and unusual activities on offer in the Eternal City, it's hard not to be tempted by the movement in the capital. Drinking an espresso while chatting, imitating a film scene or admiring a panoramic view are all 100% Dolce Vita pleasures. Let's go for a day in the image of the most pleasant Italian stereotypes!
An Italian rhythm adopted internationally
The Italian way of life has become a worldwide way of life, encouraging people to take their time, enjoy the pleasures of the world and let go. Under the sun, with a drink in hand, or strolling through the picturesque streets, everyone has their own personal definition, with just one thing in common: enjoying yourself.
An espresso and... what else?
Like all good Italians, the day starts in the café at Panella. This trendy address in the Monti district offers a breakfast that has made its reputation: a cappuccino accompanied by a cornetto. On sunny days on the terrace, or in the dining room on cooler mornings, you can enjoy a leisurely breakfast in the midst of Italian conversation, a favourite with the locals for almost a century.
Address: Via Merulana, 54, 00185 Roma RM, Italy
Opening times: 7am - 9.30pm
Discover the secrets of Italian gastronomy
If you'd like to continue your morning with a glass of Italian cappuccino and a taste of La Dolce Vita, Gusto is just a stone's throw from the Piazza Navona. For 1h30, the chef will reveal the secrets of Italian gastronomy to a small group of apprentice cooks. On the programme: preparation of a fettuccine pasta dish, with the sauce of your choice, and a tiramisu.
From the raw flour to the original carbonara sauce, the recipe is 100% homemade, made in the kitchens of a charming address where local gastronomy dictates the choices. After piling on the layers of mascarpone and biscuit, all the chefs of the day sit down together to enjoy their own creations for 1 hour. It's the perfect way to replicate part of your Italian experience once you're back from your getaway.
Address: Piazza di Sant'Apollinare, 41, 00186 Roma RM, Italy
🍝 Italian cookery courses in Rome
Book a class to learn how to make your own Italian pasta and tiramisu before enjoying them with a glass of wine and limoncello.Re-enacting the most cult scene at the Trevi Fountain
The site of a cult film scene, the Trevi Fountain is THE monument associated with the " sweet life" movement. In Federico Fellini's film La dolce vita, Anita Ekberg shares a romantic moment there with actor Marcello Mastroianni. This cinematic masterpiece won the Palme d'Or a few months after its release, making it one of the classics of the silver screen.
Let's make the most of this Roman jewel, despite the tourist crowds, under the sun, to soak up as much as possible of the way of life most appreciated by the locals. Don't forget to throw 2 coins over your shoulder to find love in Rome, and **3 *to* get married** to the lucky one! Dolce Vita day could well turn into a fairytale...
✈️ Your flight to Rome
Book your cheapest flight to RomeA guided Vespa tour
A cliché of La Dolce Vita, a trip on a Vespa is a must if you want to immerse yourself for a few hours. This little motorbike, which symbolises Italian two-wheeled vehicles the world over, is not just a means of transport. Its allure is matched by the bohemian, chic and well-groomed posture of the driver and passengers, equipped with vintage helmets. In Rome, a number of organisations offer to hire the emblematic machine for half a day or more. To combine relaxation withenrichment, opt for a guided tour of the city in pairs, on a motorbike.
In the streets of Rome, a guide who knows all the secrets accompanies adventurers past the Colosseum and the Pantheon. It's the perfect opportunity to discover the Eternal City from a new angle, while capturing those picture-postcard moments.
Guided Vespa tour of Rome
Book a Vespa tour of Rome, accompanied by an experienced guide to see the city in a different light.Gourmet dinner on the Roman rooftops
After a cookery class, a Vespa ride and a re-enactment of a scene from a film, it's time to sit down on the terrace and enjoy one of the most beautiful views of the city. Theaperitivo is a sacred moment in the day for Italians, proving that La Dolce Vita is a daily experience! Let's go up to the rooftop of the 5-star Hôtel de la Ville, to the Cielo bar, to admire the sunset with a cocktail in hand.
With the sky revealing its orange monochrome, the mixologists give pride of place to mythology, concocting highly creative drinks for customers. Pluto and his rhubarb, Mercury and his fruits of the world or Diana and her spices are accompanied by bites from the sea and Italy, to kick off this exceptional evening.
Created by chef Fulvio Pierangelini, the menu at the Cielo restaurant leaves no one indifferent, enticing us to continue this enchanted interlude on the rooftops of the Eternal City. Using fresh, local, seasonal produce, the gourmet dishes are all tempting, such as linguine with lobster or cod with chickpeas.
From the décor to the food, luxury radiates from the Piazza di Spagna and the epicurean spirit of La Dolce Vita is perfectly respected. Between tradition and innovation, the chef's signature is colourful, refined and explosive.
📍 Address: Via Sistina, 69, 00187 Roma RM, Italy
⏰ Bar opening times: 12.00 - 00.00
⏰ Restaurant opening times: 12.30 - 14.30 / 19.30 - 22.30
A princely night at the Splendide Royal hotel
Like a wedding night, the setting offered to travellers staying at the Hotel Splendide Royal in Rome is in keeping with this day of Italian elegance. Gilding, mouldings, marble work and luxurious tapestries adorn the entire 5-star establishment.
Housed in a former nineteenth-century monastery a stone's throw from the Villa Borghese, the rooms and suites at the Splendide Royal are remarkably well decorated. With furnishings that combine Baroque charm with modern comforts, the night is sure to be a romantic one.
The 24 hours fully dedicated to the Dolce Vita come to an end at breakfast, which is also royal. Faced with the breathtaking view of dozens of Rome's architectural jewels, the price range that applies to enjoy a sweet night like this is more easily justified.