Modern Rome

Caput mundi, or the head of the world, is the Latin term many inhabitants of Rome use to indicate the importance of their city in world history. But the head could use a little rejuvenation. Although the countless historical monuments and artistic jewels still hold a great attraction for the millions of tourists that visit the Eternal City every year, the city seemed to have missed the connection with a new generation of visitors that are also looking for the 21st century vibe of the Italian capital. On matters of music, modern art or trendy nightclubs, Rome could not compete anymore with other European cities such as London, Berlin or Barcelona. But today that seems to change. Design-hotels, minimalistic restaurants and number of new centres for modern art and architecture are rapidly conquering their position in the "dolce vita" of young Romans.
If you are planning to visit Rome, do not only spend your time between the wonderful monuments of antiquity and baroque, but save some to enjoy the fresh wind blowing through the city. If you want to discover modern Rome, here are some suggestions:
The new 'Parco della Musica' has put the city back on the list for classical music. This architectural wonder north of the center, not very far from the Vatican City, was designed by Italy's most famous architect Renzo Piano who describes the complex as a "cultural factory". It houses a number of halls for classical music, dance, cinema and festivals and is a true wonder for eye and ear.

Just next to the Tiber river, on the Piazza Augusto Imperatore, is the new, revolutionary museum that houses the ancient peace altar of emperor August. The entirely white-and-glass building is a design of the American architect Richard Maier and it is the first modern building in the historic centre of Rome for decades. The structure has been highly controversial, but is a great example of how beautiful the combination of an antique monument and modern architecture can be.
Finally, just next door from August's peace altar is one of the trendiest restaurants of the capital, 'Gusto'. The restaurant on the first floor serves experimental Italian cuisine, while the pizzeria downstairs serves fabulous pizzas. The ground floor also houses a wine bar, a gastronomic bookshop and a "formaggeria", where you can taste great cheeses from around the country. The place however is extremely popular, but it is worth waiting a while in the outside queue.
And after a dinner at "Gusto" you will know it too: the initiatives for the rejuvenation of the Eternal City do not leave room for any doubt - the Italian capital remains the head of the world, also in the twenty-first century.

True budgeteers will appreciate the irony: The only Rome hotel to rival the five-star Hassler (atop the Spanish Steps) for "Best Room with a View" is Albergo Abruzzi, a backpacker's haven overlooking the incredible 1,800-year-old Pantheon.
Few cheap sleeps are so well situated, but among the best of the best, each has its own charms. I recently toured more than 70 Roman inns where doubles cost under $80 before choosing 20 that offer some combination of a good location, solid comfort, a modicum of amenities, and helpful management that strives to make each guest's stay a memorable one. These Little Wonder Hotels run the gamut from spare hospices managed by nuns to a pensione serving kosher breakfasts, from international backpacker pads to classy joints where you'll have to snatch a room away from traveling Italian businessmen. Whether your dream address is a block from the Spanish Steps or from the ancient Forum, whether you want to crash around the corner from the train station or from the Armani showroom, you'll find the perfect room at one of these budget inns.