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When it comes to art and culture, few cities rival what Mexico City has to offer. With over 150 museums, a never-ending list of events, and world-famous cuisine, the Mexican capital has grown into one of the hottest travel destinations. Additionally, its geographical location makes it a great option for American tourists, as a flight there can be as short as a couple of hours, making even a weekend getaway possible. Plus, there are so many highlights that you'll keep wanting to come back.

Visiting for the first time can be overwhelming, particularly if you don't speak the language. Luckily, we're here to help. Here's a list of favorites by both locals to Mexico City and visitors who have been drawn to the city's charm multiple times. From trendy lodgings to exciting activities, read on for My Modern Met's art and culture guide to Mexico City, and get ready to explore.

Where to Stay in Mexico City

Casa Polanco

 

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Una publicación compartida por Casa Polanco | Hotel Boutique, Mexico City (@casa_polanco)

Casa Polanco brings together the amenities of a five-star resort with the serenity of a boutique hotel. Located in a Neocolonial mansion from the 1940s across the street from Lincoln Park, Casa Polanco allows you to kickstart your day in the heart of one of the most beautiful and upscale areas of the city, surrounded by high-end restaurants and shops.

Octavia Casa

 

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Located in Amatlán street, Casa Octavia offers a cozy hideaway in the middle of the bustling neighborhood of Condesa. With a minimalist atmosphere offset by wooden accents and plenty of plants, this small hotel celebrates the luxury found in simplicity. Casa Octavia only has six rooms, each named after an organic material.

Brick Hotel

 

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Situated in a renovated mansion in the heart of Roma Norte, Brick Hotel is small and luxurious. Drawing from its Belle Époque origins, it boasts a neutral palette with art deco-inspired details, like its full-length mirrors and floor-to-ceiling windows. It also boasts a spa, a gym, and plenty of spots to drink or grab a bite.

Condesa DF

 

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Located in the corner of Veracruz and Guadalajara, Condesa DF has a privileged spot in the heart of its namesake neighborhood. Its restaurants and bars, such as El Patio, are favorites among locals and visitors, creating a lively atmosphere almost every night of the week. Its views of Parque España and Chapultepec Castle are unbeatable.

Where to Eat in Mexico City

Contramar

 

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A staple of Roma Norte, Contramar has turned seafood into a community experience. Created by chef Gabriela Cámara in 1998, this restaurant marries traditional dishes with innovative twists, luring everyone with its enticing menu from everyday locals to celebrities like Dua Lipa. Some favorites include pescado a la talla and tuna tostadas with chipotle mayonnaise.

Ling Ling

 

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Just because you're in Mexico City doesn't mean you have to stick to Mexican food. As a global metropolis, there are plenty of top-of-the-line international offerings, like Ling Ling. Located on the 56th floor of The Ritz-Carlton, one of the tallest skyscrapers on Paseo de la Reforma avenue, this restaurant offers sushi rolls, nigiris, and sashimi, among other delicacies.

Taquería Orinoco

 

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Taquería Orinoco is a contentious point for people who live in Mexico City, but a highly reliable spot at the end of the day. Originally from Monterrey, this taco chain arrived in the Mexican capital with its Instagram-ready locales and long lines. Regarding it as the best taco in town may be met with an eye roll, but it's undeniably tasty and convenient. And there are vegetarian options for your pals with meat-free diets.

Quintonil

 

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Created in 2012 by Alejandra Flores and Jorge Vallejo, Quintonil has long been a staple of the The World’s 50 Best Restaurants list and a favorite in the Polanco area. Inspired by the myriad of ingredients found around Mexico, Quintonil has come to define contemporary Mexican cuisine. Constantly evolving, the tasting menu is always packed with pleasant surprises.

Must-See Museums in Mexico City

Frida Kahlo Museum

Frida Kahlo Museum. (Photo: Eugene Kim / My Modern Met)

The Frida Kahlo Museum, also known as Casa Azul (Blue House) is located in the home in the Coyoacán neighborhood where Kahlo was born, lived for most of her life, worked, and died. There you'll be able to browse paintings and Kahlo's personal objects, thoroughly chronicling the artist's life. We recommend getting your tickets at least a month in advance, as they regularly sell out.

National Anthropology Museum

National Anthropology Museum. (Photo: Alexandra Lande/Depositphotos)

The largest and most visited museum in Mexico, the Museo Nacional de Antropología (National Anthropology Museum), houses the largest collection of pre-Columbian Mexican artifacts. Some of the highlights include the Aztec Calendar or Sun Stone, the Recreation of Pakal's tomb in the Mayan wing, and ethnographic exhibits about present-day Indigenous groups. The building alone, designed by Pedro Ramírez Vázquez, is worth the visit.

Soumaya Museum

Museo Soumaya. (Photo: ibrester/Depositphotos)

Located in Polanco, the Museo Soumaya (Soumaya Museum) houses the personal art collection of magnate Carlos Slim, and is named after his late wife, Soumaya Domit. Inside, it boasts a wide array of artworks from Rodin, Dalí, and Renoir in a circular display. However, its most alluring element is its curved, glittering facade, designed by Fernando Romero.

Jumex Museum

Museo Jumex. (Photo: ChepeNicoli/Depositphotos)

Located next door to Museo Soumaya is Museo Jumex (Jumex Museum), which hosts rotating contemporary art exhibits, drawing thousands of visitors a year and closing the gap between world-famous artists and the Mexican public. Recently, the museum welcomed a Jeff Koons exhibit and a retrospective on the work of artist Gabriel Orozco.

Museum of Modern Art

Modern Art Museum. (Photo: Gobierno CDMX via Wikimedia Commons, Public domain)

Should you want to see the work of as many Mexican artists from the 20th century as possible, the Museo de Arte Moderno (Museum of Modern Art) is the place to visit. Here, you'll see the work of Frida Kahlo, Leonora Carrington, Francisco Toledo, José Clemente Orozco, David Alfaro Siqueiros, María Izquierdo, and Jorge González Camarena, among others, in a beautiful mid-century building.

Palacio de Bellas Artes

Palacio de Bellas Artes. (Photo: flocutus/Depositphotos)

This art nouveau building has been a Mexico City icon since its opening almost 90 years ago. Known for its ornate facade, the Palacio de Bellas Artes (Palace of Fine Arts) boasts 17 murals by Diego Rivera, José Clemente Orozco, David Alfaro Siqueiros, Rufino Tamayo, Jorge González Camarena, Manuel Rodríguez Lozano, and Roberto Montenegro, as well as two museums and three auditoriums.

Cultural Activities in Mexico City

Teotihuacán

Teotihuacan. (Photo: billperry/Depositphotos)

Located about an hour north of Mexico City, the Teotihuacán Archeological Zone is a must-see for those hoping to better understand Mexico's past. Teotihuacán thrived between 200 BCE and 650 CE before being abandoned for reasons not completely understood yet. The best option to get there is to take a bus from the Central de Autobuses del Norte (Northern Bus Station). Bring a hat and sunscreen.

Club Tengo Hambre Food Tour

 

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If you'd like to take in the street food scene in Mexico City, but aren't sure where to start, check out Club Tengo Hambre food tours. They'll take you on a foodie adventure through authentic food stands beloved by locals. It's also a great chance to share a meal with fellow visitors from all over the world.

Centro Histórico

The Mexico City Cathedral. (Photo: gerasimov/Depositphotos)

A stroll around Centro Histórico, Mexico City's historical downtown, is a must for any first-time visit, even if you just walk around to the Zócalo, the main square. Home to some of the oldest and most important buildings in Mexico City, we recommend checking out the Cathedral, the Postal Palace, the National Art Museum, and the National Palace. As general advice, try to stay west of the National Palace and south of República de Cuba street.

Biblioteca Vasconcelos

Biblioteca Vasconcelos. (Photo: Cavan/Depositphotos)

Designed by Alberto Kalach, Biblioteca Vasconcelos is a mind-boggling temple of books, and one of the most striking libraries in the world. Opened in 2006, Biblioteca Vasconcelos consists of three aligned structures of seven levels each, evoking a series of interconnected floating shelves.

El Péndulo

 

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If you're looking for a casual afternoon or the perfect book to join you on your Mexican getaway, pay a visit to El Péndulo. This chain of bookstores boasts striking designs, whatever branch you're visiting. Book lovers can browse titles for hours on end, and if you make a purchase, you can get a coupon for their café, where they serve dishes named after famous authors.

Unmissable Events

Mexico City Art Week

Every year, in the first week of February, Mexico City Art Week turns CDMX into one big gallery. ZONA MACO is the largest and most famous art fair, gathering hundreds of artists from all over Latin America and the world. To check out emerging and exciting creators, pay a visit to Salón Acme, Feria Material, and BADA .

Music Festivals

 

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Mexico City's music festivals rival those of the rest of the world, and there are countless events for any genre of music you’re interested in. In February, the Electric Daisy Carnival gathers fans of electronic music, while Corona Capital, in November, brings the top names in rock and pop music to Mexico City. And that's not even taking into account the dozens of shows of all sizes taking place all over the city every day.

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READ: My Modern Met’s Art + Culture Guide to Mexico City

Modernist architects may often have touted that form follows function, but Frank Lloyd Wright cautioned that this was a phrase prone to being misunderstood. “Form and function should be one,” he once clarified, “joined in a spiritual union.” That “spiritual union” couldn’t be more evident than in a new collaboration between the Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation (FLWF) and Airstream, an Ohio-based manufacturer of recreational vehicles. Combining exquisite design, decadent finishes, and state-of-the-art technology, the Frank Lloyd Wright Usonian Travel Trailer cleverly shrinks the architect’s vision into its most essential elements.

To create the towable, limited-edition trailer, Airstream’s engineering and design teams worked closely with FLWF’s experts at Wright’s Taliesin West home and studio in Scottsdale, Arizona, focusing primarily on archival materials made available by the foundation. Usonian principles, made popular by Wright later in his career, also figured heavily into the final product, seeing a complete maximization of small spaces through furniture that can easily be tucked away. Perhaps most impressive of all is the trailer’s convertible twin beds that, when folded, double as bench seating but, with a push of a button, can instantly convert into a king-sized bed—the largest option in Airstream’s current offerings. The front living space boasts a similar solution, where a pull-out sofa doubles as a secondary sleeping area, while a dining table and separate desk space both collapse into a wall cabinet. Each of these elements has, of course, been rendered with sensitivity, recalling Wright’s sleek, wooden forms and naturalistic curvature.

The trailer’s floor plan is equally dazzling, achieving efficiency through its openness. This flow extends beyond the confines of the trailer itself, most obviously through Airstream’s signature rear hatch feature and special porthole windows, allowing natural light to seamlessly filter through the space. The result is, as Wright would’ve preferred, both functionally and formally exceptional.

“We believe Wright’s design philosophy was always about helping people live with more purpose, beauty, and joy,” Henry Hendrix, VP and chief marketing officer at FLWF, says. “Together, we’ve created something deeply connected to nature, adventure, and the meaning of home.”

True—but what truly distinguishes the Frank Lloyd Wright Trailer is its incorporation of historic elements pulled directly from the architect’s storied career. The kitchen, for instance, is inspired by a never-produced concept unearthed from a 1939 archival design, whereas the trailer’s color palette is drawn from a 1955 Wright-curated Martin-Senour paint collection. The main entryway, too, is embellished with a custom graphic pattern that repurposes the Gordon Leaf mural, which Wright’s apprentice and secretary, Eugene Masselink, created in 1956 for House Beautiful editor Elizabeth Gordon.

“The Golden Leaf is a wonderful natural pattern that becomes a gateway to the natural world,” Hendrix explains. “The pattern isn’t solely decorative. It helps create the sense of fluidity and continuity from interior to exterior that you see across all of Wright’s work.”

The Frank Lloyd Wright Usonian Travel Trailer will comprise a 200-unit production run and will be available for purchase at Airstream dealers nationwide, with pricing at $184,900. To learn more, visit Airstream’s website.

The Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation and Airstream have teamed up to create a travel trailer inspired by the architect’s vision and aesthetic.

The Frank Lloyd Wright Usonian Travel Trailer features several details inspired by archival materials pulled from the FLWF, including a naturalistic mural and a mobile kitchen design.

The travel trailer combines Wright’s organic architecture with Airstream’s aerodynamic forms.

Airstream: Website | Instagram

Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation: Website | Instagram

My Modern Met granted permission to feature photos by Airstream.

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READ: Airstream Trailer Combines Frank Lloyd Wright’s Exquisite Design With Sleek Functionality

 

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Last year, more than 21 million tourists passed through Rome—and many of them undoubtedly paid a visit to the Trevi Fountain. At 86 feet high and 161 feet wide, it stands as the city’s largest Baroque fountain, and one of the finest examples of Italian architecture. Back in May, the Trevi Fountain also transformed into a canvas for a decadent light show, in celebration of the Internationali BNL d’Italia tennis tournament.

Free and open to the public, the light show was displayed every 10 minutes from 9 p.m. to midnight, illuminating the fountain with splashes of color. These animations were accomplished through projection mapping, each directly interacting with the fountain’s various features. At the beginning of the show, for instance, a dramatic ripple travels across the entirety of the fountain, as if mimicking the water below. Later, bursts of yellow would pop across its intricate columns, while rich blues would wash over the sculptures. At one point, vibrant patterns gently rotate around the fountain’s center, reminiscent of ancient Roman mosaics.

As with any public art installation, opinions about the light show were divided. Some were mesmerized, seeing the show as a combination of tradition, history, and contemporary technology. Others expressed distaste, claiming that the landmark’s artistic integrity was compromised.

“It’s a beautiful, historic fountain and the light show looks like something you would see in Las Vegas,” one user commented on an Instagram post. “It cheapens it.”

“It doesn’t need any enhancement, especially from digitization,” another user added. “It’s stunning and awe-inspiring all alone.”

On that same post, however, others disagreed: “This was awesome to see,” one person commented, while yet another said, “I want to go back.”

When overlooking these differences, the light show does still pose intriguing questions about how the past and present should interact, particularly with regards to such culturally significant monuments.

Back in May, the Trevi Fountain featured a decadent light show, in celebration of the Internationali BNL d’Italia tennis tournament.

 

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Photo: Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation

Nestled in the foothills of the McDowell Mountains in the Sonoran Desert sits an architectural gem designed by Frank Lloyd Wright. Known as Taliesin West, the pioneering architect saw it as his desert laboratory. There, he and his apprentices lived and worked while continuing to design innovative structures that followed Wright’s principle of organic architecture.

It’s not easy to define organic architecture. Wright said that while it’s a style, it’s also a way of thinking and feeling. Essentially, the building should enhance the site and the structure look natural within its setting. Taliesin West, located near Scottsdale, Arizona, exemplifies this idea. Its exterior is clad in “desert masonry,” made up of local rock set and bound by a mixture of cement and desert sand. As a result, it takes on a rocky exterior that mimics the surrounding mountainous landscape. But it doesn’t completely blend in; redwood beams accent the masonry for a stunning effect.

Taliesin West was first constructed in 1937, and Wright continued to expand and alter the building to eventually include a drafting studio, three theaters, a workshop, dining facilities, residences for apprentices and staff, and Wright’s office and living quarters. He would spend his winters at Taliesin West until his death in 1959.

Taliesin West is now a UNESCO World Heritage site and a National Historic Landmark. Visiting is open to the public, allowing us all to appreciate how Wright’s vision blends architectural design with the beauty of the natural landscape. The site offers a variety of tours, including self-guided, a behind-the-scenes look, and a special “Shelters in the Desert” guided outing.

Eugene Kim, co-founder and editor-in-chief of My Modern Met, had the opportunity to visit Taliesin West. “I’ve long admired Frank Lloyd Wright as an architect, especially with his exquisite contributions of Fallingwater and the Guggenheim New York,” he shares.

“It was an honor to visit one of his homes and studios in Taliesin West and interview Niki Stewart, vice president, chief learning & engagement officer of the Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation,” Kim continues. “Niki is a natural educator and provided excellent insights into the mind of Frank Lloyd Wright, and I especially appreciated the concept of organic architecture and building around your specific environment. A big thanks to Niki and the Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation for their warm hospitality of My Modern Met.”

Visit the Taliesin West website to learn more and plan your trip.

Nestled in the foothills of the McDowell Mountains sits an architectural gem designed by Frank Lloyd Wright.

Photo: Eugene Kim / My Modern Met

Daytime exterior of Taliesin West. (Photo: Foskett Creative Courtesy of the Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation)

Photo: Eugene Kim / My Modern Met

Known as Taliesin West, the pioneering architect saw it as his desert laboratory.

Photo: Andrew Pielage

Located near Scottsdale, Arizona, Taliesin West was first constructed in 1937 and expanded to include a drafting studio, three theaters, a workshop, and more.

Taliesin West Interior. (Photo: Andrew Pielage © Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation)

Photo: Eugene Kim / My Modern Met

Photo: Eugene Kim / My Modern Met

Photo: Eugene Kim / My Modern Met

Visiting Taliesin West is open to the public, allowing us all to appreciate how Wright’s vision blends architectural design with the beauty of the natural landscape.

Sunset at Taliesin West. (Photo: Foskett Creative Courtesy of the Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation)

To learn more about Taliesin West, check out My Modern Met's interview with Niki Stewart, Vice President, Chief Learning & Engagement Officer of the Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation.

 

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Taliesin West: Website

My Modern Met granted permission to feature photos by Visit Phoenix.

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Istanbul's iconic Hagia Sophia is getting a makeover with a major renovation to its domes. The Turkish government announced the work in April, with experts stating that it's one of the largest repair projects in the nearly 1,500-year-old history of the site.

The aim of the restoration is not only to reinforce the domes, but to protect them from earthquakes. In Istanbul alone, there are two fault lines, and a 6.2-magnitude earthquake hit the city in April. With memories of 2023's disastrous earthquake in southeastern Turkey fresh in everyone's minds, there is an urgency to ensure this piece of cultural heritage is secure.

To begin, the dome's lead cover will be lifted, allowing experts to identify the fragile areas that require intervention. In particular, they will evaluate the main cupola and its joints between the semi-domes that flank it. Led by architect Hasan Fırat Diker, a team of architects, engineers, and art historians will work together to determine the best course of action. In addition to the dome, the team will also evaluate the four supporting pillars and the surrounding ground support.

“This may be one of the greatest restorations of the current period in Turkey,” Diker recently told The Guardian.

One of Istanbul's most visited monuments, the UNESCO World Heritage site has multiple layers of history, starting its life as a cathedral before becoming a mosque in 1453. Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the founder of the modern Republic of Turkey, transformed it into a museum during his presidency. It stayed that way for over 65 years until Turkey's current president, Tayyip Erdogan, turned it back into a mosque in 2000.

“These reconstructions over different periods created layers of buildup on the dome’s surface … we know at the moment it’s not a perfect sphere due to the multiple interventions,” says Diker. “The problem is not the dome itself but what is holding it up—for now. But when we uncover it we will better see the cracks.”

While scaffolding will soon be erected, there are not expected to be any interruptions to visits. The Hagia Sophia will remain open for all to enjoy throughout the restoration, which has no set timetable for completion due to its complexity.

The Hagia Sophia is undergoing a major renovation of its domes to reinforce and protect them from earthquakes.

Photo: masterlu/Depositphotos

Source: Hagia Sophia restoration to protect 1,500-year-old Unesco ‘masterpiece’

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The Eternal City, there's nothing like it. Rome has captured people's hearts and minds for centuries—all who have been drawn in by the history and allure of Italy's capital. Great creatives like Mark Twain, Oscar Wilde, and J.M.W. Turner have all spent extended periods of time in Rome, enchanted by all that it has to offer. And still today, millions of tourists visit Rome annually, charmed by its food, fashion, history, and art.

With so much to see and do, crafting the perfect itinerary in Rome can be hard, but that's where we come in. From boutique hotels to cultural experiences to how to experience both Rome's history and contemporary culture, we've got you covered. Read on for My Modern Met's personal art and culture guide to Rome, which will set you on the path for success when exploring the city.

Where to Stay in Rome

 Bvlgari Hotel Roma

Photo: Bvlgari Hotel Roma

Italian fashion house Bulgari incorporates its sense of luxury into the Bvlgari Hotel Roma. Its sumptuous 114 rooms and suites overlook the Mausoleum of Augustus and are adjacent to via dei Condotti's high-end shopping. With features like a rooftop terrace, a four-level spa, and a restaurant run by a Michelin-star chef, you'll never want to leave.

W Rome

Photo: W Rome

If you are into vibrant interiors with flair, the 5-star W Rome is for you. Part of Marriott, W Rome is conveniently located close to the Trevi Fountain and Spanish Steps. Soak up the sun and beat the summer heat on the Wet Deck or relax with pizza and a cocktail on the panoramic rooftop. With 157 rooms and suites combining Roman architectural elements and modern design, W Rome is a breath of fresh air.

Six Senses Rome

Photo: Six Senses Rome

Housed in the 15th-century Palazzo Salviati Cesi Mellini near the Pantheon, Six Senses Rome combines historical architecture with modern wellness. Billed as an urban oasis in the heart of the Eternal City, the hotel offers 96 rooms and suites with either courtyard or cityscape views. Indulge in world-class wellness treatments at the spa or grab a bite in one of the hotel's two dining options, which adhere to the Six Senses philosophy of flavors, sustainable sourcing, and well-being.

InterContinental Rome Ambasciatori Palace

Photo: Intercontinental Rome Ambasciatori Palace

Located on the Via Veneto, the Intercontinental Rome Ambasciatori Palace is an icon of Roman hospitality. First opened in 1905, the hotel underwent a rebrand and extensive renovations in 2023. The result is a sumptuous space that retains its Neoclassical details but incorporates touches of modernity. It offers 160 rooms and suites, a rooftop bar, lounge, and restaurant, as well as a fitness room and massage services.

Must-See Roman Sites

Trevi Fountain 

Photo: Patryk_Kosmider/Depositphotos

Rome is home to one of the most famous fountains in the world, the iconic Trevi Fountain. This ornate 18th-century masterpiece became famous in pop culture after being featured in the 1960 film La Dolce Vita. Visitors now flock over to take in its magnificent sculpture and toss a coin over their shoulder into the fountain, which is said to guarantee a future visit. To make the most out of your visit, and avoid the overwhelming crowds, try to come at daybreak or in the evening as things quiet down.

Colosseum 

Photo: scaliger/Depositphotos

It's not a visit to Rome without stepping into the Colosseum, a masterpiece of Ancient Roman architecture. Take in the ambience of its impressive architecture and stand where gladiators once battled. Visiting the Colosseum is an incredible way to learn more about entertainment in Roman times. It should be paired with a visit to the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill, particularly as one ticket gets you access to all three sites. Just be sure to book tickets in advance, as they sell out quickly. If you don't have time to go inside, enjoy the best view of the Colosseum from the nearby Colle Oppio. Sit at one of the cafes and sip a drink while taking in all that it has to offer.

Pantheon 

Photo: casadaphoto/Depositphotos

Perhaps nothing proves the ingenuity of the Romans more than the Pantheon. It represents the pinnacle of Roman engineering, with its incredible dome inspiring future generations of architects. In fact, it was the last freestanding dome until the Renaissance period. Stepping into the Pantheon is a magical experience, with its open central oculus allowing light to stream down into the space. While entry to the site used to be free, there is now a nominal fee to visit, and reservations are recommended, with tickets being released about a month before any given date.

Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel

Photo: ilfede/Depositphotos

Anyone who loves art will want to experience the Vatican Museums at least once. Home to the iconic Sistine Chapel and Raphael Rooms, this papal palace-turned museum draws millions of visitors annually for good reason. Marvel at the incredible classical sculpture as you wander the museum's halls, but don't overlook collections like the Pinacoteca, which includes tapestries woven by Raphael. There is also a surprisingly interesting Egyptian collection, which is wonderful if you are traveling with children.

For a different experience, try booking the museum's Happy Hour, which includes nibbles and wine in the Pinecone Courtyard. You can reserve this at the same time you book your tickets on the official website, which is recommended to avoid long lines.

St. Peter’s Basilica

Photo: kasto/Depositphotos

While in Vatican City, be sure to also stop by St. Peter's Basilica. Impressive in scope and scale, it is also filled with artistic masterpieces like Michelangelo's Pietà and the bronze baldacchino by Gianlorenzo Bernini that sits at its center. This holy site is free to enter; however, we suggest paying the nominal fee to book an entry time slot to avoid long lines.

Galleria Borghese

Photo: wjarek/Depositphotos

This gem of a museum is one of our favorites in Rome. Filled with paintings by masters like Caravaggio and Titian and sculptures by Bernini and Canova, the Borghese Gallery is packed with blockbuster art. Originally serving as the summer home of the nephew of a 17th-century pope, every surface of the building warrants attention, from the ceiling paintings to the furnishings. The space never feels overcrowded thanks to a strict reservation system with entries every two hours. And if you start on the top floor and work your way down, you'll move against the crowds and have both floors largely to yourself.

Chiesa di Sant’Ignazio di Loyola

Photo: e55evu/Depositphotos

Rome is filled with spectacular churches, but Sant'Ignazio di Loyola stands out from the crowd for its trompe l'oeil frescos by Andrea Pozzo. Across the central nave, the spectacular fresco celebrating the work of Saint Ignatius is a triumph of illusion, literally appearing to lift us into the heavens. This painting would already be enough to merit a visit, but the cherry on top is the illusion of a dome at the central crossing, which is shockingly realistic from the right angle. Best of all, this is one site in Rome and is free and requires no advance booking to visit.

Cultural Experiences in Rome

Roman Bath at Six Senses

Photo: Six Senses Rome

Feel like you stepped back in time by participating in a Roman bathing ritual. Six Senses, a leader in luxury hospitality, began giving visitors that opportunity when it opened Six Senses Rome in 2023. You don't have to be a guest to enjoy the series at the hotel's world-class wellness spa, which also includes a one-hour Roman bathing experience with three different temperature pools. If you want to get even more indulgent, it's also possible to book a scrub or massage to complete the experience.

Katie Parla Food Tour

Photo: Katie Parla

One thing's for sure: when you come to Italy, you will want to eat. To really understand how to eat your way through Rome, book a tour with culinary expert Katie Parla, who has written several cookbooks and was featured on CNN's Stanley Tucci: Searching for Italy. She and her team of qualified guides take you through local food markets and eateries to nibble on everything from fresh buffalo mozzarella and hand-cut prosciutto to gourmet pizza slices. It's a great way to dive into Italy's culinary culture

Sketching Rome Tour

Photo: Sketching Rome Tours

See Rome in a different light through drawing. Artist Kelly Medford runs Sketching Rome Tours, which leads groups through the historic center and offers time to sketch the city's stunning architecture. Guests are provided with handmade sketchbooks, a travel watercolor kit, and all the other supplies needed to draw their own memories of the city.

Understanding Rome Tour

Photo: Understanding Rome

Architectural historian Agnes Crawford has been sharing her love of Rome's rich history for nearly two decades. Through Understanding Rome, she leads private tours in and out of the city, covering everything from well-worn sites like the Colosseum and Sistine Chapel to lesser-visited gems like Ostia Antica and Tivoli.

Modern Rome to Visit

Chiostro del Bramante

Photo: Chiostro del Bramante

Nothing mixes classic and contemporary Rome like the Chiostro del Bramante. This Renaissance-era building now hosts exhibitions that often mix historically significant work with contemporary art. The coffee shop and bistro also make a nice stop at any time of day, particularly as it's immersed in a colorful site-specific work by Fallen Fruit.

MAXXI

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MAXXI, or the National Museum of 21st Century Art, is housed in a Zaha Hadid-designed building in the northern part of the city. Enjoy the museum's ever-changing arrangement of its permanent art, architecture, and photography collections, as well as temporary exhibitions. MAXXI is also known for its rich calendar of events, which is filled with talks, book presentations, tours, workshops, and concerts.

Gagosian Gallery

 

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Gagosian Gallery, one of the most respected names in the modern and contemporary art world, expanded to Rome in 2007. In doing so, the gallery has brought world-class contemporary art to the city, with exhibitions of Cy Twombly, Damien Hirst, Richard Avedon, and Yayoi Kusama. If you are a contemporary art lover, it's well worth checking out what's on view during your stay.

Galleria Nazionale d'Arte Moderna

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Rome's National Gallery of Modern and Contemporary Art (GNAM) has a rich collection of 19th- and 20th-century art, with over 1,100 paintings and sculptures on display. The collection is particularly strong in Italian art, featuring work by Giorgio di Chirico, Amedeo Modigliani, and Giacomo Balla, among others. International artists in the collection include Braque, Cézanne, Degas, Monet, Jackson Pollock, and Van Gogh.

Where to Eat and Drink in Rome

Osteria da Fortunata

 

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Known for their fresh pasta, Osteria da Fortunata has several locations across Rome, Milan, Bologna, and Miami. However, everything started in Rome, and this shines through with delicious classics like cacio e pepe and amatriciana.

Armando al Pantheon 

 

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In general, restaurants in close proximity to major museums and monuments are tourist traps that overcharge for mediocre food. However, Armando al Pantheon proves that is not always the case. It has been run by the Gargioli family since 1961, serving up Roman classics in the shadow of the Pantheon. The small restaurant fills up with locals and tourists alike, making reservations essential.

Emma Pizzeria

 

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Located close to Campo de Fiori, Emma Pizzeria uses top-notch ingredients to create exceptional pizza. They also provide a full menu with dishes appropriate for vegetarians and vegans, making this a place that can satisfy anyone and everyone.

Pizzarium

 

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Long before he became a celebrity chef in Italy, Gabriele Bonci was breaking boundaries. When he opened Pizzarium in 2003, he pushed the limits of pizza al taglio (pizza by the slice) by using unusual ingredients and flavor pairings. Pizzarium, located close to the Vatican, is still thriving today, but as Bonci's fame has grown, so has the restaurant's popularity. Be prepared to wait and enjoy your pizza al taglio as Romans do, standing up.

Il Goccetto

 

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Located on the historic Via dei Banchi Vecchi, Il Goccetto is an institution for wine lovers. Since 1983, the wine shop has been pouring fine wines and light nibbles to Romans and tourists alike. Easily recognizable for the red and white “Vino Olio” sign that hangs outside, wine lovers will appreciate their vast library of Italian and international wines.

Jerry Thomas Project

 

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If you're in need of a good cocktail, check out Rome's first speakeasy, The Jerry Thomas Project. Opened in 2010, it helped spark the country's craft cocktail movement and is routinely named as one of the 50 Best Bars in the world. Note: you'll need to be a member to gain access (but you can easily become one for a small fee once inside), and due to its small nature, reservations are recommended.

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READ: My Modern Met’s Art + Culture Guide to Rome

When Latvia revamped its passports in 2024, the country was looking to upgrade the document's security and anti-counterfeiting measures. And to do so, they took an artistic design route that is a walk through the Baltic country's landscape. Now, citizens of the country can travel with a piece of art right in their pocket.

“The new model passport is a hymn to the beautiful nature of Latvia,” shares Maira Roze, the head of the Office of Citizenship and Migration Affairs, in a statement about the new passport. “When traveling abroad with the new passport, each of us can take Latvian nature with us in the form of a safe, reliable passport.”

The passport is designed to be a journey through Latvia's seasonal diversity. Nature imagery by photographer Andris Eglītis illustrates the pages, and really comes to life under UV light, when hidden elements emerge. But using different imagery on each page isn't just an aesthetic choice; it also makes it quite difficult to produce a counterfeit.

Symbols of Latvia—including its coat of arms, flag, and national anthem—are scattered throughout the passport, as are further representations of nature. Cranes, which are birds common to Latvia, are a unifying factor across the pages of the document, representing the concept of departure and repatriation. Overall, 20 different birds are represented on the passport's pages.

For security purposes, the passport features UV printing, holographic strips, multi-laser images, a brightly colored passport photo, and an optically variable ink function that is printed as an oak leaf, which appears in different colors. All of these features come together to make Latvia a country with one of the most secure and aesthetically pleasing passports.

Latvia revamped its passports.

The new passport, launched in February 2024, is an ode to Latvia's stunning natural beauty, featuring different images on each page.

Under UV light, the pages transform into something even more spectacular.

The UV light, along with holographic strips and specialized printing techniques, increases the travel document's security.

All of these design decisions enable Latvia's citizens to securely travel with a piece of art in their pocket.

 

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Source: The new passport – Latvian nature and innovative anti-counterfeiting solutions

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READ: Latvia’s Passports Are a Stunning Ode to the Country’s Natural Environment

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A visit to Japan isn't complete without enjoying some of its culinary delicacies. The appeal is both flavor-driven and in the preparation of each item. Among the most fascinating preparations is mochi. This sweet treat is a long-standing tradition in Japanese cuisine, delighting many with its wide array of flavors and soft, chewy texture. And no one makes mochi like Mitsuo Nakatani, Japan's famed mochi master.

The magic takes place at Nakatanidou, the store Nakatani has commanded for over 30 years. Located in Nara, in the Kansai region near Kyoto, the establishment welcomes those wanting to try these rice cakes and take in the mesmerizing mochitsuki, AKA the mochi-making ceremony. During mochitsuki, cooks pound the glutinous sticky rice with a kine or mallet, turning it into a soft paste that's then split and becomes mochi.

Nakatani carries out this process so efficiently that he is widely considered the fastest mochi master in all of Japan. A visit to Nakatanidou showcases Nakatani's lightning-fast work on the dough from the store windows. As an assistant hits the mix of mochigome (glutinous rice grain) with striking precision, Nakatani mixes the paste by hand on the same wooden mortar. The pair has developed a careful choreography that has prevented the cook from being hit as he works.

“There are many styles of mochi pounding, but the most traditional one is one person pounds and the other mixes by hand,” Nakatani told Great Big Story. The cook also shared that he usually pounds sticky rice very fast for about two minutes, and that he has an average of three strikes per second. “There is no formal training on mochi pounding. It's something you acquire from experience over time. The key to be good at mixing is all about timing and trust in the guy that is pounding. We use our shouting as a way to coordinate with each other and create a rhythm. To me, making mochi is like a battle. Anyone can pound mochi as long as you have a will.”

If you're ever in Nara, you can catch Nakatani bringing these sweets to life three times a day between 10 a.m. and 7 p.m. at Nakatanidou. Each mochi is about 200 Yen (about $1.39 USD), and travel experts consider it a great snack to power your long walks as you explore the city. Nakatanidou is located on 29 Hashimotocho, in the vibrant Higashimuki Shopping Street.

Mitsuo Nakatani is widely considered the fastest mochi master in all of Japan.

 

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The magic takes place at Nakatanidou, the store Nakatani has run for over 30 years.

 

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The establishment welcomes those wanting to try these rice cakes and take in the mochitsuki—the mochi-making ceremony in which cooks pound the glutinous sticky rice with a mallet at lightning speed.

 

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You can watch Nakatani at work and describe his process in the video below.

Sources: Pounding Mochi With the Fastest Mochi Maker in Japan; Only in Japan TV on Instagram; Nakatanidou Mochi Shop; A journey to the origins of Japanese ‘mochi’ and its ancient ritual

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READ: Watch Japan’s Fastest Mochi Master Make the Traditional Delicacies at Lightning Speed

Nestled into Rome's historic center, a boutique hotel offers a luxurious spa experience. Six Senses Rome pays tribute to the ancient Roman bathing ritual with an hour-long experience to soothe and relax weary travelers.

Milan-based designer Patricia Urquiola, who designed the entire hotel, has created a calm, tranquil space for relaxation. With travertine-lined walls and a soft earth-toned palette, a welcoming environment envelopes guests. When taking part in the Roman baths, guests will enjoy a modern adaptation of the ancient ritual with three plunge pools: calidarium (hot), tepidarium (warm), and frigidarium (cold).

Throughout ancient Rome, public bath houses were commonplace. Bathing was a practical and social necessity involving all social classes and a hallmark of daily life in the ancient city. Today, Six Senses guests, as well as external users, can enjoy a similar experience and even add to it, as the spa offers a wide array of wellness services. An herbal healing hammam offers a full-body scrub with Sicilian raw sea salt, sweet fennel, and rosemary, while state-of-the-art biohacking services complement traditional massages and facials.

Eugene Kim, the Co-Founder and Editor-in-Chief of My Modern Met, had a chance to experience the spa for himself. “What drew me into the Roman baths at Six Senses Rome was the contemporary design and beautifully intricate etchings of flowers on the walls,” he shares. “My body and mind were completely at ease as I switched from the warm pools, cold plunge, sauna, and resting areas. The ice fountain was a unique feature, where fresh ice is created to rub around your body to cool down.”

The visit is worth it. “Overall, I had an excellent experience and would highly recommend a visit, whether you’re staying at the beautiful hotel or just visiting for the spa.”

Six Sense Rome offers a unique spa experience inspired by ancient Roman bathing rituals.

Guests will enjoy three plunge pools at different temperatures and relax in the travertine-lined space.

Get a peek into Six Senses Rome. Eugene Kim, My Modern Met's Co-Founder and Editor-in-Chief, visited the gorgeous and tranquil grounds.

 

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My Modern Met granted permission to feature photos by Six Senses Rome.

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Take flight without ever having to leave the ground. That’s the idea of Carry On, a cocktail experience in Downtown Phoenix. The space is outfitted as a Mid-Century homage to air travel, with an interior that evokes the glamour of 1960s air travel. Coupled with an inventive cocktail menu, the 90-minute journey is an innovative way to enjoy imbibing.

You'll immediately feel as though you’ve stepped into a luxury aircraft once you've “boarded” Carry On. Designed in collaboration with interior designer Peter Bowden, the space is warm and lush and reads private air travel—no commercial flights here. Wooden inlays, leather seats, and chrome accents fill the space, and each seating area has windows that simulate the full in-sky experience. It’s meant to evoke the newfound freedom air travel brought in the middle of the 20th century.

“In the 1960s, air travel was part of the excitement that came with going to a new destination,” explains Teddy Myers, founder of Pretty Decent Concepts, the creator of Carry On. “People actually dressed up for flights, and the act of boarding a plane felt glamorous, enticing, and exclusive in itself.”

Eugene Kim, editor-in-chief at My Modern Met, had the opportunity to take part in this one-of-a-kind experience. “Carry On does an excellent job immersing you in an airplane setting and creating a unique environment,” he says. “Upon arrival, they provided us with a boarding pass as we entered a classy cocktail lounge that looked like the inside of a plane. It’s quite surreal to feel what it was like to fly in the 60s, where the flight crew was dressed to the nines, and the service and cocktails were top-notch. The airplane windows had video monitors that simulated the outside environment, with clouds and beautiful colored skies, and the ‘flight’ even included turbulence. From start to finish, the whole experience was really well thought out and perfectly executed.”

Carry On also has an imaginative drink menu to match its stunning interior. The hour-and-a-half experience takes you on a “trip” to top cocktail destinations around the world. Drinks are inspired by their departure and arrival points, and as you reach your destination, you watch the menu shift accordingly.

Carry On is a ticketed event with a reserved seat, a welcome cocktail, and snacks offered throughout the flight. To learn more and book your journey, visit the Carry On website.

Take flight without ever having to leave the ground with Carry On, a cocktail experience in Downtown Phoenix.

The space is outfitted as a Mid-Century homage to air travel, with an interior that evokes the glamour of 1960s air travel.

Coupled with an inventive cocktail menu, the 90-minute journey is an innovative way to enjoy imbibing.

Designed in collaboration with interior designer Peter Bowden, the space is warm and lush and reads private air travel—no commercial flights here.

Carry On also has an imaginative drink menu to match its stunning interior.

Drinks are inspired by their departure and arrival points, and as you reach your destination, you watch the menu shift accordingly.

Carry On: Website | Instagram

My Modern Met granted permission to feature photos by Carry On.

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