La Festa della Mamma, or Mother’s Day, is a widely celebrated holiday in Italy for the very stereotypical reason that Italians just love their moms. The family is very important in Italian culture, so like many other countries around the world, the first or second sunday of May is dedicated to mothers everywhere. Happen to be in Rome on May 8 this year with your mom? How about organizing a brunch, buying some flowers, and treating your mom to some shopping? Here are a few ideas to give her a Mother’s Day in Rome to remember for years to come.

Brunch

Brunch is only starting to become a thing in Rome, but nothing really beats sitting in a piazza or hitting an all-you-can-eat buffet full of Italian sweet and savory goodies. Here are a few of our favorite spots:

Rec23 (Testaccio) | €16/person

“A Corner of New York in Rome”  – this is a very local joint in the heart of Testaccio. The restaurant is large and brunch is a full buffet, featuring American and Italian classics.

Piazza dell’Emporio 2 – 00153 Roma

Dondolo (Monte Sacra) | alla carte

A fabulous little place really off the beaten path, but serves up fantastic American favorites (like homemade bagels and eggs benedict!) in a cute, eclectic place. A stroll to checkout the interesting historic architecture in the neighborhood is a good idea too.

Via Cimone 129/131 – 00141 Roma (Metro B: Conca d’Oro) *reservations suggested

Bakery House (Corso Triest/ Ponte Milvio) | alla carte

An institution for American food in Rome, Bakery House opened its second location in Ponte Milvio to accommodate the growing demand. Both stores offer mouth watering American brunch, and delectable desserts like red velvet cupcakes and cheesecake.

Corso Trieste 157 b/c – Piazza Istria (Metro B: Annibagliano)

Via Riano, 11 – Ponte Milvio *reservations suggested

Hotel de la Minerve (Pantheon) €35/person

If you’re really looking to splurge this Mother’s Day, take her to the Roof Garden at the historic Hotel de la Minerve, overlooking the iconic dome of the Pantheon. Not that the delicious food comes second, but that view though…

Piazza della Minerva, 69 – 00186 Roma *reservations suggested

*Brunch not your thing? How about a picnic? Hit your nearest grocery store and pick up some fresh cheese, salumi, bread, fruit, and wine and head to the park! Villa Borghese, Villa Pamphili or Villa Ada (or the super secret and charming Villa Celimontana near the Colosseum) are great places for a lovely walk and relaxing afternoon with the family.

Fancy a picnic in the park? Check out Villa Celimontana near the Colosseum.

Flowers

It’s almost the unwritten rule that all mothers should receive flowers on Mother’s Day and if you find yourself in Rome this is no exception. The best flower vendors are the one’s you’ll find along the streets. The flowers are fresh, the prices are fair, and they usually offer full service – package them up in cellophane or take them home in a vase. Many of the stands don’t have official addresses, so the best way to find the closest vendor is to ask a local bar. Also any of the large outdoor markets at Campo de’ Fiori, Porta Portese, or Piazza di San Cosimato will have dedicated fresh flower stands.

Shopping

What mom wouldn’t love a little retail therapy to celebrate Mother’s Day in Rome? If you’re looking to give your mom a 5-star experience, head to Via dei Condotti and the neighboring streets around Piazza di Spagna and the Spanish Steps where you’ll find all of the international designer brands. Looking for something a little more local? The Monti neighborhood (Via del Boschetto and Via Urbana) is full of great little shops by local artisans and designers, selling everything from jewelry and fashion to mosaics and decorative pieces for your home.

Bringing mom to Rome?

If you’re coming to Rome with the whole family, read our tips for planning a trip to Rome for a big group. Just looking for a place to stay? Here are a few great options all over the city.

Are you traveling with small children? The Dolce Family Apartment by ROMAC is the accommodation for the perfect family holiday in Rome, complete with bunk beds, chalk wall, and plenty of room for playing. 

ROMAC also has large, family-sized apartments near Campo de’ Fiori, with plenty of bedrooms and baths for everyone in the family!

Looking for a San Saba vacation apartment? ROMAC offers a fabulous 5-bedroom, 3 bath accommodation just minutes from the Piramide train station!

What are your plans for Mother’s Day in Rome? Tell us in the comments below!