In an attempt to hit another country (Vatican City) and find a better option for a direct flight home, I spent the final 36 hours of my trip in Rome. It ended up being the perfect decision—and it only got better when I remembered I had a $100 Marriott gift card for one of their experiences. Naturally, I booked a food tour. And honestly? It was the best decision I could’ve made for how to spend a day in Rome.

I started the day wandering around Vatican City, exploring the Sistine Chapel, the museums, and the rest of the Vatican grounds. It was chaotic, crowded, and overwhelming in the way only a global landmark can be—but absolutely stunning.

The food tour was everything I love about travel wrapped into one experience. It started in a local market: vibrant, loud, colorful, and absolutely overflowing with some of the freshest food I’ve ever tasted. We stopped at different stalls to sample snacks:

• fresh local wines
• sharp and creamy cheeses
• artisanal meats
• rich olive oils

Every bite was epic. Every sip was better than the last. And I was deliriously happy the entire time.

From the market, walked to a cozy local restaurant where we sat down to a full pasta dinner (plural—more than one pasta) paired with a bottle of wine. The kind of meal that feels like a warm hug.

The tour ended with gelato and cappuccinos on the street—because how else do you properly close out an Italian food experience?

Food tours are always fun, but doing one in Italy? It just feels right. You learn the city through its flavors, and Rome has plenty to say.