1. Spanish Steps

Audrey Hepburn and Gregory Peck made Rome’s Spanish Steps a world wide sensation after their flick Roman Holiday was released in 1953. Movie set locations aside, the 136 steps are pretty impressive on their own, climbing a steep slope from the Piazza di Spagna to Trinita die Monti church above.

2. Monti neighborhood

The maze of twisty cobblestone streets fronting the Piazza di Spagna where the Spanish Steps begin in Rome’s historic center is known as the Monti. It was once a quiet working class neighborhood, but is now becoming the latest hot spot for Rome’s hipster crowd. Besides a bevy of sleek restaurants and bars, it’s also great for shopping, hosting eclectic boutiques selling everything from ultra mod furnishings to antique collectables to the latest fashions.

3. Trevi Fountain

Like the Spanish Steps, Trevi Fountain will be recognized by movie buffs, having played a role not only in Roman Holiday, but in many other notable films including La Dolce Vita. In the city’s Trevi district, the baroque fountain was designed by Italian architect Nicola Salvi in 1732.

4. Trastevere neighborhood

The Trastevere is another buzzing neighborhood, located on the west bank of the Tiber River just south of Vatican City. It is a great option for afternoon strolls — stop in for a drink at one of the lively bars and cafes strung around the side streets.

5. Via Condotti

Beginning at the Spanish Steps and running all the way down to Via del Corso, Via Condotti is Rome’s Rodeo Drive. Bring the credit card and hit up famous Italian designers’ storefronts – Gucci, Bulgari, Ferragamo and Armani are all here.

6. Triangolo della Pace

This is another hot neighborhood, just west of Piazza Navona, favored by fashionable and affluent young professionals. Spend a few hours wandering its maze of cobbled alley, checking out the avant-garde boutiques and indy bars and restaurants it hosts.

7. La Maison

To experience modern Roman culture after dark, head to La Maison, one of the most exclusive night clubs in the city. Elegant and luxe, you’ll need to dress to impress to get past the doorman. The music on offer varies, but its especially known for hip-hop and R’n’B.

8. Auditorium Parco della Musica

Try to catch a show at this impressive public music complex with three futuristic concert halls and a 3,000 capacity open-air amphitheater. The venue offers a diverse musical line-up with concerts ranging from classical to pop. It is located in the north of the city, near the area where the 1960 Summer Olympic Games took place.

9. MAXXI Museum

Rome is famous for its Renaissance art, but it also boasts a striking modern art museum in the MAXXI. On the site of an old military barracks, here you’ll find contemporary pieces by the likes of Anish Kapoor and Gerhard Richter in a building designed by Zaha Hadid.

10. Pincian Hill

Head to terrace on the top of Pincian Hill for one of Rome’s top panorama photo ops. Overlooking Piazza del Popolo, you can see as far as Vatican City and the Pantheon.

11. Antico Forno Roscioli

This is one of Rome’s best bakeries, offering a dizzying array of fresh breads and delicate pastries at its front counter. It also does delicious pizzas.

12. Dal Bolognese

You can’t go to Rome and not have pasta, so head to Dal Bolognese near the Spanish Steps for a classic Italian meal in hip environs. The restaurant is known for its lasagna.