I needed an Eat Pray Love moment in Rome. A solo trip, no real agenda, and a city layered with history, beauty, and just enough chaos to keep things interesting. I came to wander, to write, to meet people I’d never see again (or maybe would), and be alone in a place that’s seen thousands of lifetimes. Between pasta dinners, rainy walks, and late nights with fellow travelers, Rome gave me what I was hoping for.

I flew Icelandair to FCA. The reason was a little intentional. When I went to Iceland last year, I didn’t get to see the Northern Lights, which seems criminal considering I was in one of the top locations to see them. When I booked this trip, I chose Icelandair on purpose, hoping—manifesting—maybe the universe would give me a second chance.

Right before boarding, the airline moved my seat last minute. I was pissed. I was originally seated on the right side of the plane (the south side when flying from the States), thinking I had done my homework. I wanted the best odds. Then suddenly, boom… seat change. Back of the plane. Left side.

But here’s the thing I didn’t know: the left side is the north side.

And guess what?
I finally saw the Northern Lights.

Not the insane, dancing-green-curtain kind you see on postcards—but enough. Enough to make my heart stop, enough to pull my phone out in disbelief, enough to make me feel like the universe was tapping me on the shoulder saying, “See? I didn’t forget about you.” A blessing in disguise. I audibly gasped next to the woman sitting besides me, who found the noise slightly amusing. Glad to be of service.

As for Icelandair itself: totally fine. Not the best, but it got me where I needed. Staff was kind, chill energy, and the airlines gives you complimentary coffee and tea.

Landing in Rome, YellowSquare Hostel, & My First Night

Once I landed, I took the train from the airport into the city. It cost about 15 euros and took roughly 45 minutes. Super easy and straightforward, no stress. Exactly what you want when you’re exhausted and slightly overstimulated in a new country.

I stayed at YellowSquare Hostel in Rome, and I loved it. I was in a six-person all-girls dorm, and the beds were shockingly comfortable for a hostel. The cost was about $40 per night. Each bed had its own little safe built into the spacious lockers, which made me feel way more secure. They also rent towels and they come in this cute YellowSquare bag that you get to keep. Practical and a souvenir? Say less.

The hostel vibe was social without being overwhelming, which is exactly my speed. I really loved my roommates, and it felt like one of those places where connections just happen naturally. YellowSquare hosts many activities, so you will never be bored!

After showering, I grabbed dinner with a girl from France that I met through Hostelworld—one of those “thank god I said yes” moments. We went to Osteria da Fortunata near the Pantheon. The meal ended up being one of the best meals of my life.

Be careful with Rome’s bus system. I accidentally took the right bus number but on the wrong side of the street, and ended up lost for a few hours before realizing my mistake. Learn from me: For the love of God, MAKE SURE YOU ARE ON THE CORRECT SIDE.

That said, the bus system itself is actually very easy once you get the hang of it. You tap your phone to pay on the bus, and it’s about 2 euros for two hours. Rome is relatively walkable, but since it was rainy in January, the bus was a lifesaver.

Back to the food. I ordered cacio e pepe, and I don’t say this lightly when I say it was wholeheartedly the best pasta I’ve ever had. Cacio e Pepe is pasta with only cheese and pepper, but oh my lord, was it fantastic. At the front of the restaurant, you can even see staff hand rolling the pasta! Alongside the meal I had my first Aperol spritz. A rite of passage. When in Rome. What sealed it was noticing that locals were eating there too; which means it has to be good, especially in such a tourist-heavy area.

Trevi Fountain & Gelato

After dinner, we walked over to the Trevi Fountain, glowing and magical at night. We were some of the last people allowed in before they started charging, which felt like another mini travel win. Yes, I made a wish. Yes, I flipped a coin. I stood there for a moment just taking it all in with gelato in hand—rain, jet lag, new friendships, and a quiet appreciation for the solo trip already giving me what I needed.

Day 2: Writing, Wandering, and a Very Small World 🇮🇹✍️

I woke up feeling rested and ready to wander—one of my favorite parts of solo travel. No agenda, no compromises, just me and the city. I took the bus to the Colosseum… correctly this time. The bus drops you right in front of it, and there’s something surreal about casually stepping off public transportation and being face-to-face with one of the world’s most iconic landmarks.

I didn’t go inside, which I kind of regret now because the amount of history packed into that space is insane. Still, I walked around slowly, letting it sink in that this was my first world wonder. Some moments don’t need narration. Only presence.

From there, I wandered uphill and stumbled into a café: Caffè Roma (I think). Definitely a touristy, but the waiter was kind, warm, and immediately dubbed me “the writer.” He snagged me a table right by the window overlooking the Roman Forum, and I couldn’t have asked for a better setup.

I ordered both an iced and hot cappuccino, as well as a maritozzo: basically a fluffy donut filled with cream, traditionally eaten in a way that guarantees you’ll get cream on your nose. I, however, ate it with a fork like a controlled adult.

I sat there writing for a while, officially starting my second book. There’s something about writing in other countries that feels different. As if the experiences are still warm, still unfolding, still real enough to bleed onto the page. I like when the inspiration hasn’t had time to settle yet.

Afterward, I wandered aimlessly again, soaking in Rome’s architecture. I was surprised by how verdant certain parts of the city were. Pockets of calm tucked between stone and history. The forecast had promised rain all day, but instead I got sunshine… at least until I reached the Spanish Steps, where the rain finally caught up to me all, “You didn’t think you were getting away that easily, did you?”

I took the bus back to the hostel, curled up for a quick nap (realizing I’m not 21 anymore), and then headed across the street to the Yellow Bar for their nightly free pasta. I met Maya, a traveler from Brazil, and we sat eating pesto pasta and swapping stories. Sitting in bunk beds and having chats with the other travelers you’re sharing the room with is one of my favorite parts of travel.

Later, I met up with Alan and another traveler who casually mentioned she went to school with my sister… at her exact college. Across the ocean. In Rome. A small-world moment that felt both random and inevitable.

We went on a minor side quest for gelato at the bus station since it was the closest option—and honestly? Still incredible. No regrets. We grabbed a few drinks back at Yellow Bar and danced the night away with fellow solo travelers, the kind of night where laughter comes easy and time cease to exist.

Day 3: A City Within a City, Reflections, and My Eat Pray Love Moment 🇻🇦✨

Day three started with the Vatican. Alan and I went on a Sunday, which meant crowds. If Italy was this crowded in January, I couldn’t begin to imagine how busy it would be during summers. The Vatican is a living, breathing place of worship, and Sundays are when it’s most alive.

Walking around Vatican City was wild to wrap my head around. Country #28. Vatican City is the smallest country in the world, tucked inside Rome, with its own borders, guards, government, and centuries of influence behind those walls. Less than half a square mile, yet historically massive. This is where popes have lived, ruled, and shaped global religious history for centuries. Even without going inside, just standing next to something that knows more than you ever will carries so much weight.

We wandered, people-watched, soaked it in. Alan showed me his camera glasses, casually recording moments hands-free, and I was sold. Have to get my hands on a pair of those. Watching memories get captured effortlessly felt very on-theme for this trip.

After that, we took a bus to Sant’Ignazio di Loyola Church, and if you’re in Rome, this one is non-negotiable. From the outside, it’s understated. The building appears as any regular building in Rome. But, inside, you won’t believe your eyes.

Built in the 1600s and dedicated to St. Ignatius of Loyola, the founder of the Jesuit order, the church is a masterpiece of illusion. The ceiling isn’t actually a dome (because they ran out of money) but instead a perfectly painted trompe-l’œil fresco by Andrea Pozzo that tricks your brain into believing it rises into the heavens. Jesuits believed art was a way to educate, inspire, and move people spiritually, and standing there, you understand why.

There’s a mirror on the floor that reflects the entire ceiling. As one would expect, there’s a long line. It costs 1 euro to step up and take the photo. Can confirm: it is absolutely worth it. Watching people gasp when they see the reflection never got old.

Afterward, we headed to Zi Rosetta, a small restaurant near the Pantheon. The service was incredible, warm without being rushed, and I couldn’t stop laughing when Travis Scott started playing over the speakers. Italy, but make it American-friendly.

The bruschetta was easily the best I had. Simple ingredients, perfect balance, proof that Italian food doesn’t need to be complicated to be life-changing. Thanks Alan for the great convos and food! I’ll never forget that meal!

Then, like clockwork, the rain returned.

Alan and I met up with Maya and the other girls from the night before. Even on a Sunday, Rome refused to be quiet. Alan and I took the metro to Sanctuary Eco Retreat, an international bar and club tucked away from the tourist chaos. YellowSquare was conveniently located right near a major bus stop and the metro. The metro works the same way the bus does, just tap on and tap off!

If you sign up through Instagram, you get free guest list entry from 6pm–2am, a free buffet from 7–9pm, and the club room stays open until 3. The drinks were pricey but strong. After a few, I was happily buzzing. The house music was fun, the energy was high, and was a youthful night that suspended time.

At some point, it hit me that it was my last night in Rome.

I needed this trip. I needed an Eat Pray Love moment after my life had shifted. The quiet realization I’m exactly where I’m supposed to be, learning myself through the world.

Tips For Traveling to Rome

Rome gave me history, creativity, connection, and closure. If you’re planning a solo adventure here, a few tips from someone who’s wandered, gotten lost, and loved every second:

• Public transit is your friend (but check which side of the street you’re on!). Rome’s buses and metro are simple and cheap—about €2 for two hours—but double-check your stop and direction to avoid wandering aimlessly like I did.
• Safety first, but trust the city. Walking alone at night felt safe, even for a solo female traveler. Stick to well-lit streets, trust your instincts, and keep your valuables close, but don’t let fear limit you.
• Pick hostels with social vibes. YellowSquare made meeting travelers effortless. Bars, events, and communal meals can turn a solo trip into a week full of friends.
• Timing is everything for landmarks. Vatican City and popular churches are packed on weekends—plan for early mornings or enjoy the crowds as part of the experience. Even just walking around can be magical.
• Embrace the little indulgences. Gelato side quests, maritozzi, Aperol spritzes—they’re not just treats, they’re part of the story. Eat, sip, savor, and yes, take photos if it feels right.
• Don’t underestimate the weather. Rain can come out of nowhere, so layers, a small umbrella, and waterproof shoes are lifesavers, especially in winter months.
• Write, sketch, or journal somewhere scenic. Cafés overlooking the Forum, piazzas, or quiet corners of the city—they’re perfect for reflecting, recording ideas, or just soaking it all in.

Now for notes on being a solo traveler: I felt safe walking alone back through the city. Rome never made me feel small or watched—just welcomed. What made the trip, as always, were the people. Strangers turned friends. Conversations that felt easy. Shared moments that didn’t need to last forever to matter.

Rome is a feeling, a living museum, and a playground for anyone who’s curious, patient, and willing to wander. Solo travel here is a joy! Date Roma!