Borgo Pio is exactly the kind of place that most people miss - yet it's just steps away from the Vatican.

While the area around St Peter's Basilica is often crowded, here you'll find a quieter street with restaurants, bars, patisseries and a much more relaxed atmosphere.

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What to expect here

Borgo Pio is a narrow, mostly pedestrianised street that runs from the Castel Sant'Angelo to St Peter's Square.

Restaurants and bars

The main reason to go here.

• Smaller establishments with outdoor seating
• prices often better than right by the Vatican
• a mix of local and tourist restaurants

I stopped here for a great gelato at Gelateria Hedera. I describe more tips for eating and drinking in Rome in this article.

Perfect place for lunch or dinner after visiting the Vatican.

Atmosphere (a major plus)

• narrower streets with colourful houses
• less crowded than a few streets away
• pleasantly lively in the evening, but not chaotic

For me, Borgo Pio is definitely a more pleasant way to get to the Vatican than the main Via della Conciliazione, which most people take.

What to see around

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