By Jessica Russo
You're finally taking your dream trip to Rome - yay! When in Rome, eating gelato is part of the daily routine. But how do you know that you're trying the best, most authentic creamy goodness the Eternal City has to offer?
If you're like us, you don't want to waste time trying mediocre gelato from tourist traps. Here's a list of our favorite, local-approved gelaterias in Rome.
Photo by Instagram user @fm.gelato
Fatamorgana Gelato
Click here for all locations!
It's no secret that Fatamorgana is one of the most raved-about gelato spots in Rome. But, guess what? There isn't just one - there are eight different locations! Whether you're near the Vatican, the Pantheon, or the Borghese Gardens, the scrumptious gelato of Fatamorgana is always nearby.
Photo by Instagram user @pra.mila
Come il Latte
Via Silvio Spaventa, 24/26, 00187
This hotspot's name translates to "like milk," which is fitting, as it whips up some of the creamiest, most decadent gelato in all of Rome. Go with a classic flavor (pistachio, lemon, coffee, dark chocolate), or switch it up and try something funkier, like caramel with pink Himalayan salt or pineapple, basil, and ricotta! Not so into dairy? Do not fear - you can still savor the sweetness of gelato. Come il Latte serves up eight delicious non-dairy flavors!
Photo by Instagram user @ilgelatodisancrispino
Il Gelato di San Crispino
Via della Panetteria, 42, 00187
What's better than lapping up a sweet, creamy cone of gelato as you take a stroll to the breathtaking Trevi Fountain? Located just around the corner from that iconic site, Il Gelato di San Crispino serves up artisan icy treats with flavors from walnut and fig to ginger and cinnamon. Too chilly for ice cream? That's what you think. This innovative gelateria even serves up amazing "warm ice cream!"
Photo by Instagram user @boreum_918
Gelateria del Teatro
Via dei Coronari, 65/66, 00186
There are many reasons that Gelateria del Teatro is one of our faves. First, it's delicious. Second, the shop's front window displays talented chefs who use local ingredients to create fresh, seasonal flavors right in front of you! When you see someone chop fresh strawberries as you indulge in some strawberry sorbet, it somehow tastes a whole lot sweeter.
Photo by Instagram user @the.roaming.bakers
Gelateria Dei Gracchi
Via dei Gracchi, 272, 00193
Anthony Bourdain has called this gelateria "the best of the best," and we have to agree. Located in the Prati district just over the Tiber, this cute little ice cream parlor spoons out some awesome flavors, like pear-caramel and orange-chocolate. Get in line with tons of locals at this must-try spot!
Photo by Instagram user @sj_s_onmyfeet
Frigidarium
Via del Governo Vecchio, 112, 00186
Nestled on a cute, busy street in Rome's historic center, you'll find Frigidarium, one of Rome's most popular gelato joints. First, you'll notice the crowd of people, and then, you'll see heaping ice cream cones of fruity flavors or chocolate-dipped deliciousness. This is one of the only gelaterias that not only offers, but encourages toppings like cookies or chocolate shells, so don't be afraid to pile it on.
Photo by Instagram user @anna_somewhere
Gelateria La Romana
Via Venti Settembre, 60, 00187
This classic gelateria was founded in 1947 and has been a local favorite ever since. La Romana prides itself on its exclusive use of high-quality ingredients, like organic milk, hens' eggs, and fresh fruit. With tons of amazing flavors, like panna cotta, white mint, and mascarpone with berries and pine nuts, this spot is way more than a typical ice cream shop.
Photo by Instagram user @jasm1ina_k
Giolitti
Via degli Uffici del Vicario, 40, 00186
This gelateria is old, but just how old are we talkin' here? Try 1900! Step into this old-school Roman ice cream shop and feel your eyes widen at the endless colorful flavors that stand before you. Get a classic cone, or try one of Giolitti's specialties like gelato biscuits, cassata, or gelato truffles.
