Piazza del Popolo

Piazza di Spagna, Rome –

The ritzy stores of Piazza di Spagna give way to chic boutiques on the way down Via del Babuino toward Piazza del Popolo, a charming square often ignored by tourists – which makes it a wonderful spot for resting after a shopping spree.

Crossed by the three major roads of Babuino, Ripetta, and Corso, the square is usually abuzz with locals completing their daily errands, shoppers stopping for refreshment at one of the bars or cafés, and expats passing through on their way to the English-language movie theater just off the square.

Visitors can take in the incredible expanse of the square from the steps of the fountain or climb up to the Villa Borghese for a panoramic view of the entire city.

Besides the stunning vistas, Piazza del Popolo – which can hold nearly 50,000 people – is also the frequent site of free concerts and events from horse shows to circus acts that often culminate in impressive fireworks displays.

Framed by twin Renaissance churches and dominated by an ancient Egyptian obelisk atop a fountain, the piazza also draws a crowd at sunset when the slanting rays of the sun create a gorgeous backdrop for the traditional evening passeggiata (stroll).