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This walk is a great introduction to quintessential Rome: the heart of the Roman Empire, the seat of the Catholic Church, and the capital of Italy, with churches, palaces, and museums at every turn.

A great place to rest is Quirinal Hill, one of the Seven Hills of Rome. At its top lies the Piazza del Quirinale, with its enormous presidential palace majestically overlooking the city. Nearby Fontana di Trevi is an impressive fountain, and legend has it that when you toss a coin in the water over your left shoulder using your right hand, you will return to Rome.

You'll find shopping arcade Galleria Alberto Sordi on Piazza Colonna, a favorite for shoppers and Art Nouveau aficionados alike. And be sure to admire the impressive art collections of the princely Roman Doria Pamphilj family on display at nearby Palazzo Doria Pamphilj.

At the Pantheon, one of the best-preserved monuments from ancient times, you will find the area buzzing with little shops and Roman trattorias. These time-honored eateries have been around for decades. Waiters dressed in black and white serve up classic dishes like pasta all’amatriciana. This is also a great place to stop for coffee, with two of the oldest and most famous coffee bars in town within a few hundred yards of each other.

When exploring this neighborhood, take some time to wander through the little alleys full of traditional artisans, such as woodworkers and furniture makers. There are also many antique stores. Around the Palazzo Montecitorio, which houses the Italian parliament, important Italian politicians are part of the local scenery.