ROME
sweet Rome

The elegant Hotel de Russie, between Piazza del Popolo and the Spanish Steps, is where Pablo Picasso famously stayed for his 1917 visit to the Eternal City. It has such chic rooms and splendid gardens, you’ll find it hard to leave. Rooms from £538 (roccofortehotels.com)

For a typical Roman lunch I always go to the very informal but extremely tasty trattoria
È Passata la Moretta — its bruschetta and pasta dishes are fabulous. My other favourite is Rimessa Roscioli, where you can lunch in its amazing old cellar and learn the secrets of how to prepare the perfect ‘cacio e pepe’ pasta dish with a demonstration by the chef. For aperitifs and dinner, AcquaRoof Terrazza Molinari is one of the best places for fresh Mediterranean food and breathtaking views (also, bartender Alessandro will take care of you with delicious cocktails).

I love the Bulgari New Curiosity Shop, which sells Roman souvenirs such as the Divas’ Dream creations, based on the ‘fan’ motif of the Caracalla Baths’ mosaic floors. The store is on the famous Via Condotti and Bulgari has designed the festive lights for the whole street.
‘Bulgari Roma: Travel Tales For Beauty Lovers’ (£27; Rizzoli) is out now

It goes without saying, but the Trevi Fountain is such a romantic spot (and perfect for pictures). But don’t miss the Galleria Colonna either, a true jewel of the Roman baroque period. It’s where the final scene of Roman Holiday was filmed. At Casino di Villa Boncompagni Ludovisi, you can admire the only painting ever created by Caravaggio on a ceiling, Jupiter, Neptune and Pluto.