Warm days in Rome are a time like no other. The parks, squares and riverbanks come alive with makeshift restaurants and bars, open-air cinema, live entertainment and an array of music and cultural festivals. Locals and visitors to the city are spoiled for choice, with so many ways to spend those Rome nights in summer and fall.
But if you're in town during these pleasant seasons, an activity not to be missed is RiverTracks (brought to you by the makers of Rome Tram Tracks). Enjoy an aperitivo (drinks and snacks) on board a boat that sails the Tevere, or Tiber River.
RomeTracks rocks the river! — Photo courtesy of Maria Pasquale / HeartRome
But this ain't no lazy drink along the river.
American native Domenico Scola is of Italian origins and has been living in Rome for many years. He has become a local rock star of sorts, and he launched his unique rock events on board a vintage tram in 2013. This year, he takes the event to the heart of the city in this latest venture on a riverboat.
The event is beyond unique. Nobody but Scola and his team will have you eating, drinking, singing and dancing with the moving backdrop of some of Rome’s most historic and beautiful monuments.
The night starts at 6:45 p.m. along the river at the Ponte Garibaldi bridge area, located in the Trastevere neighborhood. Once you register your arrival with the welcome hosts, you kind of hear the boat approaching before you see it.
Just as you make out The O’Jays’ "Love Train," start tapping your feet and Domenico and the band appear, outfits and music immediately take you back to the 1970s. It’s not long, and you’re singing along and you just know it’s going to be something special!
On board, you find your table by searching the old LP records that have peoples' names on them; you'll get to take home yours as a memento.
A food platter with delicious treats like prosciutto, buffalo mozzarella, olives and a tasty pasta salad also greets you at your table, and the staff (including the beautiful and always smiling Simona) continuously pours you red and white wine throughout.
The energy on board is electric and infectious, as Domenico and his band sing tracks by The Rolling Stones, Elvis and Italian artists like Antonello Venditti and Lucio Battisti; you just can’t help but be on your feet and dancing.
See the banks of the Tiber River come alive — Photo courtesy of Maria Pasquale / HeartRome
But the ultimate in this truly unforgettable experience? Seeing the riverbanks come alive with people and the summer market and food stands light up as the sun starts to set. Not to mention, you'll also catch glimpses of Castel Sant'Angelo and the beautiful dome of Saint Peter's Basilica.
You may have been to Rome. You may even live in Rome. But you haven't experienced it like this.
Visit RomeTramTracks.com for bookings and information about both RiverTracks and TramTracks. Tickets for RiverTracks cost €45, and the riverboat caters for up to 40 guests. Events run on Mondays. RiverTracks began earlier this summer, and this season's shows are scheduled through October.
Enjoy what will probably be your most unique night out in the "Eternal City."
