Via Veneto in Rome

Once the hottest location in Rome, the Via Veneto of Fellini films is no longer in existence. Movie stars and their entourages may still stay at the Excelsior Hotel near the top, but they spend their time on other roads in Rome these days. However, the road still holds quite a bit of charm. Start at the Piazza Barberini at the bottom of the road. Here you'll find two fountains by Barberini. The Fountain of the Bees, at the corner of Via Veneto, is a symbol of the Barberini family. In the piazza itself, you'll see Bernini's Triton Fountain. Now begin to explore the Via Veneto itself. Stretching upwards from the Piazza Barberini to the Villa Borghese area at the top, you'll pass by lovely palazzos, shops and cafes that still line the road. The world famous Caffe de Paris is still there near the bottom, though the clientele is more likely to be tourists than celebrities. Continuing upwards, you'll find Rome's Hardrock Café about half way up on the left, where you can add to your t-shirt collection or have some very non-Italian food. Continue to climb the gently curving road and you'll come to a number of international embassies at the top. If you're tired from the climb, turn left and look for the entrance to the Villa Borghese park where you can rest in beautiful surroundings.