3 Must-Try Gelato Shops in Rome

3 Must-Try Gelato Shops in Rome

There are almost as many gelato shops in Rome as there are Churches so it can seem overwhelming making a decision. If you are like me, you don’t want to waste the calories on “just ok” gelato! 

You may also be thinking, “honestly, I can’t really tell that much of a difference” – and for most places, I think you are right — which is why these 3 spots are must-picks for both the flavor and the experience.

1. San Crispino

I first read about this place in 2011 when I read Eat Pray Love. I enjoyed it then and I enjoyed it this year. Of the three, this is the smallest and calmest. Pick your flavors and then pay at the counter when you get your gelato. There is no seating, so just grab your cup or cone and head back out to tourist. You will find smooth, crafted gelato here with some unique flavors like honey or fig. There are two of them in Rome so you’re never too far away from one.

2. Giolitti

This place has been around since 1890. You’ll know you’re there as soon as you turn the corner because the street is lined with people standing and eating their gelato. If you want a table, be sure to sit down first and order from the table – otherwise you can’t sit there. You wait in line first to pay for your scoop size and then head to the counter for your scoops. A larger selection than San Crispino, it is starting to feel a bit like a tourist trap since it gets SO crowded and hectic here but the gelato is true and remarkable.

3. Della Palma

I remembered this place from 2011 and their 150 flavor advertisements (take that Baskin & Robins 31). With gelato in every direction, take your time here to look at the flavors and find ones you may not find at the smaller shops – lavender, basil, pear with cheese, brownie, & twit are just a few flavors that I found that weren’t at other spots. I had Fruit & Creme, Cheesecake, & Pear with Cheese. You also pay first here and then get your flavors or order at the table (unless you go at 11pm like we did).

These 3 spots are all about 1 minute from each other so if you’re truly into the scientific method, you can go from one to the other and really compare them! We hit one each day, which is probably a bit healthier of a way to try them.

After you have hit these 3, feel free to try other places, but I have a feeling you’ll want to go back to at least one before your trip is done!

Xx

Kali