An Italy Travel Expert’s Perfect Itinerary for a Luxe Girls Trip to Rome

Rome is the perfect destination for a girls trip—there’s no shortage of chic activities to partake in or women-owned establishments to support. In fact, throughout my career as a travel advisor, I’ve planned countless trips for girl groups, bachelorette parties, and even all-female family trips. Whether you’re looking to learn about history, shop for Italian leather, or just spend some quality time abroad with the women in your life, here are my top tips for a Roman holiday with some feminine flair.

What to Do 

Iconic attractions like the Roman Forum and the Michelangelo-designed Capitoline Hill are must-visits on any trip to Rome. There, travelers can familiarize themselves with the capital’s founding and complex past, especially with the help of a knowledgeable tour guide. While most tours neglect the stories of influential women in Roman history and mythology, some, like Stellavision Travel, make sure to spotlight them. You can learn about the legendary noblewoman and heroine Lucretia; the goddess of victory, Nike; and the six priestesses known as the Vestal Virgins—all while experiencing the stunning sights of Rome’s most historic neighborhood.

Where to Shop 

Retail therapy is the ultimate girls trip indulgence, but finding chic shops amongst the souvenirs can be a tall order, particularly in Rome. Don’t miss Voodoo Jewels, a by-appointment-only jewelry showroom. The brand, whose offerings range from fashion to semi-precious, was founded in 2002 by Livia Lazzari, a Roman designer. Across the Tiber River, in the beautiful passageway of Via di Monserrato, you’ll find L’Archivio di Monserrato, a two-floor boutique. There, Argentinian fashion designer Soledad Twombly curates a selection of clothing, antiques, and textiles from around the world; in some cases, you may be invited to see her collection of artwork in the basement. 

Where to Eat

Traditional osterias are perfect for a quintessentially Roman experience, but my girlfriends and I typically favor women-run spots that feature updated culinary classics in design-forward spaces. At SantoPalato, chef and owner Sarah Cicolini emphasizes quality ingredients and low waste while serving revitalized Italian classics. Mazzo, Francesca Barreca’s modern trattoria, offers generous helpings of hearty Roman food in an upscale setting. At either restaurant, you’re in for a delicious meal complemented by extensive wine lists and cool decor. 

Where to Stay

When in Rome … Why not live like the city’s most famous sisters? The storied Fendi family focuses on fashion, of course—Silvia Fendi’s brand headquarters are in one of my favorite buildings in Rome, the Square Colosseum. You’ll also find Fendi fingerprints on exciting antiques at Federica Formilli Fendi’s Triplef store. The sisters have recently entered into hospitality with the Fendi Private Suites, located within the historic Fendi Palazzo above the flagship store. They provide guests with luxurious stays and the ultimate view over the Spanish Steps. Another fashionable option is Alda Fendi’s Rhinoceros Roma. These apartments, which sit between the Tiber River and the Circus Maximus, combine industrial-chic decor with serious art credentials. From the ground-floor museum to the rooftop restaurants, Rhinoceros offers plenty of spots to gather with your girls.

Zoe Shapiro is a member of Travel + Leisure’s A-List and specializes in female-focused trips. You can create a tailor-made itinerary with Shapiro by contacting her at [email protected].