Escape the Crowds in Rome: Hidden Palaces, Secret Art, & The Best Panini (Caravaggio + Trajan Forum)

Escape the crowds in Rome and wander through historic palaces, hidden churches, and ancient ruins. From secret Caravaggio masterpieces to panoramic monument views and a 500-year-old deli shop, this is a guide to the real Rome. On this episode of Mapping It, we're taking you on a journey through the heart of the city to escape the crowds in Rome and find some hidden gems! We're starting off with a sunrise visit to the Trevi Fountain to see if you can really beat the morning rush. Then, we step inside the Chiesa di San Luigi dei Francesi to see incredible Baroque paintings by Caravaggio. We visit the breathtaking Galleria Doria Pamphilj, a private palace that feels like a hidden time capsule. For lunch, we stop by L’Antica Salumeria—a hidden gem deli right on the Pantheon square that most people overlook—for the best paninis in Rome! In the afternoon, we head to the Altare della Patria (Vittoriano) for some of the most beautiful panoramic views of the Roman skyline. We explore the ruins of Trajan's Forum, a quieter alternative to the main Roman Forum, and stop by the historic ruins of Largo di Torre Argentina (the famous Roman cat sanctuary). It’s a full day of exploring and a great way to avoid the tourists and get off the beaten path in Rome! Whether you’re planning a trip to Italy or just want to virtually wander through the streets of Rome, come along as we uncover the magic of Rome. If you enjoyed this tour of Hidden Gems in Rome, please give the video a THUMBS UP and SUBSCRIBE for more global travel guides! ✨ We use eSims from Airalo. Use code "KARIN1082" to get a $3 credit on your first Airalo purchase and watch our how-to video to learn how to use it!    • How to use an Airalo eSIM (Install and Act...   The songs used in this episode are from Epidemic Sound: https://share.epidemicsound.com/65ymq0 We're Karin and Jeremy! Just an average couple with a love for travel. We work full-time jobs that only offer limited vacation time, so we work hard to get the most out of our holidays. Join us on our adventures as we maximize our time off on Mapping It. Disclaimer: Some of the links in the description are affiliate links and we may earn a small commission that costs you nothing extra. Timestamps 00:00 Intro 01:10 Sunrise at the Trevi Fountain 02:39 Church of San Luigi dei Francesi and Hidden Caravaggio Pantings 04:31 Galleria Doria Pamphilj and the Italian Hall of Mirrors 05:46 Secret Panini Spot in Rome: Antica Salumeria 07:22 Gelato from Frigidarium 07:58 Altare della Patria (Vittoriano) Incredible Views of Rome 09:14 Trajan's Forum 10:54 Ruins of Largo di Torre Argentina 11:39 Dinner and Final Thoughts on Rome's Hidden Gems 12:25 Bloopers #Rome #ItalyTravel #RomeHiddenGems #VisitItaly #TravelVlog #ItalianFood #RomeGuide #Rome2026