Rome is an unbelievable, historic metropolis that continues to captivate and encourage numerous generations of vacationers and adventurers. There’s an nearly countless record of issues to see, do, style, and listen to within the vibrant Italian capital. The Everlasting Metropolis is one in every of my favourite cities on the earth, and it’ll blow your thoughts.
On this put up, I’ve described 25 of the most effective issues to do in Rome. From exploring iconic landmarks and monuments just like the Colosseum and Trevi Fountain, studying concerning the metropolis’s fascinating 2,700+ yr previous, to indulging in its scrumptious delicacies and vigorous nightlife, Rome is a metropolis like no different.
Whether or not you’re on the lookout for a romantic getaway or an action-packed household trip, there are such a lot of locations to see in Rome – it’s a metropolis you’ll nearly definitely need to return to. Get able to expertise one in every of Europe’s most vigorous, fascinating, and memorable capital cities!
25 Greatest Issues To Do in Rome
Right here’s my choose of the highest issues to do and locations to go to in Rome. I’ve tried to incorporate a variety of Rome’s vacationer points of interest, so there’s certain to be one thing right here for you.
1. Go to the Colosseum (One of many Most Iconic Issues To Do in Rome)
Some of the iconic landmarks on the earth; no journey to Rome is full with out seeing this epic amphitheater – the biggest ever constructed by the Roman Empire. Inbuilt 72 AD, the Colosseum has stood as a logo of Rome’s power and energy for nearly 2,000 years.
In historic instances, the Colosseum was used for brutal gladiator battles and animal fights. At present, one of the best ways to totally respect this immense construction and its fascinating historical past is to take a guided tour.
This is without doubt one of the most highly-reviewed guided excursions and lets you skip the infamous line for tickets. Your information may even take you to the well-known Roman Discussion board, and Palatine Hill, so it’s nice worth for cash.
As you’d anticipate, the Colosseum is without doubt one of the hottest locations to go to in Rome. I strongly suggest reserving your tickets effectively prematurely as they promote out quick and also you don’t need to be left upset.
2. Admire St Peter’s Basilica
Some of the essential and holy websites in all of Christianity, St Peter’s Basilica (Basilica di San Pietro) is one other must-see web site and is without doubt one of the high locations to go to in Vatican Metropolis. It’s actually huge and is residence to numerous priceless artworks and treasures from world wide.
Exterior the cathedral lies St Peter’s Sq., the middle of world Catholicism. The sq. is surrounded by spectacular colonnades designed by the well-known sculptor and architect Gian Lorenzo Bernini, and the grand obelisk within the middle was introduced from Egypt in 1586.
Take a look at this glorious guided tour of the Vatican, which incorporates St. Peter’s Basilica and different essential websites such because the Sistine Chapel and Vatican Museums (extra on these under). The entire space has been named a UNESCO World Heritage Website on account of its appreciable cultural significance and significance.
3. Take a Meals Tour
Rome is a paradise for foodies and town is residence to among the greatest meals in Italy (which is saying quite a bit!). There’s an countless record of unbelievable locations to eat, from Michelin-starred tremendous eating eating places to low cost native eateries and implausible avenue meals stands.
Among the finest issues to do in Rome is to affix a guided meals tour. You’ll achieve an perception into town’s wealthy culinary tradition, and have the possibility to go to a few of Rome’s most interesting delis and markets, the place you’ll get to style among the metropolis’s tastiest treats.
There are numerous glorious meals excursions all through town, however this one is especially good. Your information will take you to take pleasure in a few of Rome’s greatest avenue meals and train you concerning the historical past of town’s best-loved delicacies, together with supplì, conventional Roman pizza, and varied seasonal dishes.
4. Tour the Pantheon
One in every of historic Rome’s most well-preserved buildings, and among the finest locations to go to in Rome, the Pantheon is a testomony to the grandeur and energy of historic Roman structure. The Pantheon was initially inbuilt 27 BC as a temple to the traditional Roman gods.
On the within, this place is just breathtaking, constructed with excellent proportions, an enormous dome overhead, and delightful sculptures, statues, and mosaics. At present, the Pantheon homes the tombs of the well-known Italian artist Raphael and the “Father of the Nation” King Vittorio Emanuele II.
It’s free to enter the Pantheon, however it’s greatest to pre-book and keep away from having to attend for ages standing in line. A reservation can be necessary on weekends and public holidays. To totally respect this unbelievable constructing, I like to recommend becoming a member of a guided tour like this one (which additionally contains the doorway reservation).
Piazza Navona is one in every of Rome’s most vigorous squares and has many issues to supply guests starting from artwork galleries to gelaterias.
One in every of my favourite issues to do right here is to choose up a scoop or two of scrumptious conventional gelato and watch the folks of town go about their day by day enterprise.
Cremì is a very glorious gelateria in Piazza Navona that provides a variety of heavenly artisanal gelato and sorbets.
6. Take a Day Journey to Ostia Antica
Simply outdoors of Rome lies the traditional port metropolis of Ostia Antica which was based round 620 BC. It’s an essential archaeological web site with many well-preserved ruins and artifacts.
It’s straightforward to go to Ostia Antica as a day journey from Rome. Both take the prepare from Piramide station and get misplaced within the ruins by your self or take this guided tour (which additionally departs from Piramide) to study extra concerning the historical past of this fascinating place.
Permit loads of time to discover the numerous temples, baths, amphitheaters, and villas. The world additionally has some lovely pure surroundings together with seashores, forests, and wetlands which might be excellent for exploring on foot or by bike.
7. Feast at Pizza e Mozzarella
As you’ll most likely guess, modern-day Romans take their pizza very critically, and sampling among the metropolis’s most interesting is without doubt one of the must-do issues in Rome. Each native has their favourite pizzeria, however my favourite is a spot referred to as Pizza e Mozzarella.
It appears to be like like a easy takeout joint, however oh wow – their pizzas are one thing else! With quite a lot of tasty toppings to select from and excellent crispy crusts, the pizzas listed here are actually unbelievable. You may both get entire pizzas made to order or purchase by the slice and check out a couple of totally different toppings.
Alternatively, why not discover ways to make your personal pizza on this enjoyable and engaging masterclass?
8. Discover the Catacombs
The Catacombs of San Callisto are residence to one of many oldest Christian burial websites in Rome, courting again to the 2nd century AD. This fascinating advanced spreads over round 90 acres, with over 12 miles of passageways and galleries, unfold out over 4 ranges, greater than 20 meters underground.
Exploring this historic subterranean maze is each eerie and awe-inspiring. The tunnels include the tombs of assorted martyrs and popes, in addition to Third-century frescoes and a few wonderful sculptures. Take a look at this glorious guided tour to get probably the most out of your go to.
This is without doubt one of the most uncommon locations to go to in Rome and it’s actually unbelievable. The one different place I’ve ever been that’s remotely comparable is the San Gennaro Catacombs in Naples (and even then, those in Rome are a lot larger).
9. Marvel at Trevi Fountain
One of many high sights in Rome and one of many metropolis’s most well-known landmarks, the Trevi Fountain is an ornate and delightful fountain on the middle of Piazza di Trevi. Admire it from afar or courageous the crowds up shut – the selection is yours!
Situated on the junction of three streets within the coronary heart of town, the baroque masterpiece was designed by Italian artist Nicola Salvi and accomplished in 1762. It’s residence to a lot of sculpted figures and is illuminated at night time.
This fountain has lengthy been a logo of the Everlasting Metropolis and is without doubt one of the greatest issues to see in Rome. It’s additionally completely free to go to.
10. Chill out in Villa Borghese
Villa Borghese is without doubt one of the largest open inexperienced areas in Rome and is an ideal place to spend a day and escape the crowds and warmth of town. It’s made up of just about 200 acres of landscaped gardens and is the setting for quite a lot of sculptures, lakes, fountains, and monuments.
The park was initially inbuilt 1605 by Cardinal Scipione Borghese on his household property, and it was opened to the general public in 1903. Take a leisurely stroll and admire the gorgeous gardens, or pack a picnic to take pleasure in beneath the shade of one in every of its many decorative timber.
Villa Borghese additionally incorporates Galleria Borghese, one in every of Rome’s greatest and most essential Renaissance artwork galleries housing masterpieces by the likes of Bernini and Caravaggio. Take a look at this guided tour of the gallery, or this one that features a tour of each the gallery and the gardens.
11. Discover Trastevere
Overflowing with character, Trastevere is one in every of Rome’s most bohemian areas situated on the west financial institution of the Tiber River. Its cobblestone streets are lined with colourful buildings, slender alleyways, bustling cafes, and conventional trattorias.
The world has a wealthy historical past that dates again to the Center Ages and one in every of its essential points of interest is the spectacular Basilica di Santa Maria, well-known for its ornate inside, together with Twelfth-century mosaics and 22 Roman columns.
Spending an hour or two strolling round this eclectic neighborhood is an effective way to get a way of on a regular basis life in Rome right now. The environment is buzzing day or night time, so be sure to add it to your record of enjoyable issues to do in Rome. You can additionally try this highly-reviewed meals tour in Trastevere which incorporates dinner and wine.
12. Cruise Alongside the Tiber River
For a distinct perspective of Rome, take a soothing cruise alongside the Tiber River which flows by way of town. Cruises can be found all through the day and effectively into the night and are one of the crucial romantic issues to do in Rome.
Floating peacefully down the river, you’ll have a tremendous view of a few of Rome’s high points of interest such because the Castel Sant’Angelo, Ponte Sant’ Angelo, and St. Peter’s Basilica.
13. Climb the Spanish Steps
One other of town’s most iconic sights, the Spanish Steps is a must-see in Rome. Constructed by architect Francesco de Sanctis in 1725, this beautiful out of doors staircase is made up of 138 steps that hyperlink two piazzas: Trinità dei Monti and Piazza di Spagna.
The steps and plazas are charmingly embellished with flowers all through the spring and summer season months and on the high of the steps, you’ll discover the Church of Trinità dei Monti – a fantastic Baroque-style church inbuilt 1585.
Located on the foot of the Spanish Steps, Piazza di Spagna is without doubt one of the most well-known squares in Rome. It’s an incredible spot for people-watching, though it will possibly get very busy so you’ll want to regulate your belongings right here.
14. Tour the Roman Discussion board
Situated between the Palatine and Capitoline Hills in Rome, the Discussion board was as soon as the political, non secular, and industrial coronary heart of historic Rome. It’s now a big archaeological web site and one of the crucial visited vacationer points of interest in Rome.
The Discussion board was residence to among the most essential non secular temples, authorities buildings, and different monuments of the traditional metropolis such because the Temple of Julius Caesar and the Arch of Titus.
I’d positively suggest taking a guided tour to discover these in depth ruins, because it’s an effective way to study their historical past and significance. That is among the finest excursions that additionally features a go to to the Colosseum and Palatine Hill.
15. Go Purchasing in Through dei Condotti
Should you’re into procuring, you’ll love looking the designer and luxurious outlets in Through dei Condotti. This iconic procuring avenue is residence to among the world’s high style manufacturers.
It’s definitely not an inexpensive place to buy. Nevertheless, even should you don’t need to spend any cash right here, Through dei Condotti is an attention-grabbing and enticing place to wander as you’re taking within the glamorous environment.
That is one other good spot for people-watching (there are many spots in Rome!), because it’s standard with town’s elite. It’s additionally very centrally situated near the Spanish Steps.
16. Go to Castel Sant’Angelo
Constructed by Emperor Hadrian within the 2nd century as a mausoleum for himself and his household, Castel Sant’Angelo is a formidable round fortress and one other unbelievable instance of historic Roman engineering. It’s situated on the banks of the Tiber River and is one in every of Rome’s (many) main landmarks.
The fortress has been used for varied functions all through the centuries, together with as a defensive fortress, a papal residence, and even a jail.
At present, it’s open to the general public and you’ll discover its spectacular inside, which homes priceless Renaissance furnishings and work, and geometrically pleasing tree-lined gardens. The fortress is a well-liked attraction in Rome so I’d suggest shopping for a skip-the-line ticket prematurely to save lots of you from having to face in a protracted queue when you’re there.
17. Take pleasure in a Excessive-Finish Dinner
Rome is residence to numerous implausible eating places, from easy conventional trattorias to well-known, multiple-Michelin-starred tremendous eating eating places. For a really particular night, guide a desk at one of many metropolis’s high-end eateries.
A number of the greatest high-end eating places in Rome embrace La Pergola, All’Oro, and Moma. You’ll must guide effectively prematurely to safe a desk at any of those well-known eating places, so bear this in thoughts if you’re planning what to do in Rome.
18. Go to the Sistine Chapel
The Sistine Chapel is without doubt one of the high locations to go to in Rome and is situated within the Vatican Metropolis, subsequent to St. Peter’s Basilica. This unbelievable constructing is legendary for its elaborate ornament and gorgeous frescoes painted by Michelangelo within the Sixteenth century. These frescoes cowl the ceiling and most of the partitions and depict scenes from the Outdated Testomony.
The chapel additionally kinds a part of the Pope’s official residence and is the place “papal conclaves” happen, the place members of the School of Cardinals meet when it’s time to elect a brand new pope.
Visiting the Sistine Chapel is without doubt one of the high issues to do in Rome and it will possibly get very crowded (although it’s nonetheless 100% price going). Excursions run all through the day, and also you’ll must guide tickets prematurely as they typically promote out.
19. Discover Rome’s Jewish Quarter
Situated on the banks of the Tiber River, Rome’s Jewish Quarter is without doubt one of the oldest on the earth. It was established in 1555 by Pope Paul IV who pressured Rome’s Jewish inhabitants to relocate to this district of town and made them dwell in a ghetto, separate from town’s different residents.
The neighborhood is residence to a number of synagogues, the Jewish Museum of Rome, vibrant public markets, eating places, and some different well-known historic websites in Rome, together with the Portico d’Ottavia.
It’s an interesting place to discover (both by your self or as a part of a strolling tour) and is an effective way to study extra about Rome’s Jewish historical past and tradition. The road meals right here can be scrumptious!
20. Take pleasure in an Aperitivo in Campo de Fiori
Each night from 6 pm onwards, the Campo de Fiori sq. comes alive with locals having fun with an aperitivo. Be a part of them for a chew to eat and a glass of wine or a spritz whereas absorbing the hustle and bustle of Roman life.
The piazza can be residence to many nice cafes and eating places and is a superb place to spend a night. Whether or not you’re simply having drinks or having fun with dinner al fresco, visiting the Campo de Fiori is a must-do in Rome and among the finest issues to do in Rome at night time.
21. Take a Day Journey to Tivoli
A brief distance outdoors of Rome lies the picturesque city of Tivoli, one in every of my favourite locations to go to close to Rome and residential to among the most lovely gardens and villas in Italy. I spent a few days in Tivoli final yr and actually cherished it.
My favourite place was Villa d’Este, a big Sixteenth-century cardinal’s villa constructed on high of an historic Roman palace. Probably the most spectacular and atmospheric a part of the villa is the gardens, constructed throughout a number of ranges and with varied elaborate fountains (fed by pure water stress – no pumps), grottoes, and shaded seating areas.
Hadrian’s Villa, situated simply outdoors Tivoli, can be effectively price a go to. Tivoli can get a little bit busy in the summertime months however remains to be normally a lot much less crowded than Rome itself. I visited in September and it was refreshingly quiet and peaceable.
22. Go to the Vatican Museums
The Vatican Museums home one of many world’s largest and most essential collections of artwork and sculpture, in addition to some unbelievable mosaics, and frescoes. Right here, you may marvel at masterpieces from among the world’s best artists, together with Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, and Caravaggio.
The museums are huge and include over 70,000 displays displayed throughout 54 galleries. Established within the early Sixteenth century, these in depth and numerous collections span quite a lot of cultures from historic Egypt to Renaissance Italy.
Housed throughout the partitions of Vatican Metropolis, the museums supply an interesting perception into the historical past and tradition of Europe and past. You may guide a tour of the museums right here.
23. Examine Out the Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore
This gorgeous basilica is one in every of Rome’s 4 main cathedrals and is famend for its elaborate mosaics and delightful structure.
The basilica was constructed round 432 AD and is a surprising masterpiece of Romanesque structure. Situated within the Esquiline Hill space of town, it’s an incredible place to spend an hour or so. That is additionally one of many (barely) much less standard locations to go to in Rome so is usually a little bit extra peaceable.
Take a guided tour to study extra about it or just admire the great thing about this wonderful place.
24. Take a Cooking Class
Should you (like me) love Italian meals, among the finest issues to do in Rome is to take an genuine Italian cooking class. You’ll discover ways to make some scrumptious Italian dishes and treats and get to take pleasure in your creations on the finish, typically over a glass of native wine or two.
There are numerous totally different choices to select from, together with pizza-making lessons, pasta-making workshops, and this delicious-sounding fettuccine, ravioli, and tiramisu cooking class.
25. Stroll Throughout the Ponte Sant Angelo
The two,000-year-old Ponte Sant Angelo bridge spans the Tiber River and connects the center of historic Rome to Castel Sant’Angelo. It was initially constructed by Emperor Hadrian and is one other must-see place in Rome.
One in every of my favourite free issues to do in Rome is to take a leisurely stroll throughout the bridge and admire its ornate statues and carvings.
You too can take pleasure in some wonderful views of town from right here – don’t miss it!
Fast Journey Itineraries For Rome
I’ve put collectively a couple of transient itineraries that will help you benefit from your time on this unbelievable metropolis.
1 Day in Rome Itinerary
Truthfully, in the future actually isn’t sufficient time to see Rome correctly. Nevertheless, if that is the one time you will have, I like to recommend selecting among the high Rome highlights and specializing in these, moderately than attempting to see or do an excessive amount of.
Begin your day with a tour of the Colosseum and take a look at Trevi Fountain earlier than heading to the Vatican for a day of sightseeing together with St Peter’s Sq. and Basilica, and the Sistine Chapel.
Cool off with a scoop of gelato in Piazza Navona, then head to Campo de Fiori for an aperitivo. End off your day with dinner at one of many metropolis’s greatest eating places.
2-3 Days in Rome Itinerary
You may take pleasure in most of the greatest issues to do in Rome in 3 days (or 2 at a pinch), though you’ll nonetheless want to maneuver shortly.
Spend the primary day as described above. Then on day two, go to among the metropolis’s different iconic sights reminiscent of Castel Sant’Angelo, the Spanish Steps, and the Roman Discussion board. Take a night dinner cruise on the Tiber River to spherical off your second day romantically.
When you have a 3rd day, both take into account taking a cooking class and discover town’s Jewish Quarter, or take a day journey to Tivoli to admire the villas and ornate gardens.
1 Week in Rome Itinerary
Per week is a superb period of time to spend in Rome. You’ll be capable to do most (if not all) of the issues described on this put up, and it’ll permit you sufficient time to get a extremely good sense of town with out feeling rushed.
I like to recommend following the above 3-day itinerary, then ticking off the opposite issues on this put up throughout your remaining days. Be sure you take a full day exploring Tivoli, and a minimum of half a day to go to Ostia Antica.
Additionally, should you’re visiting Rome as a part of an extended journey to Italy, try this put up on the 30 high locations to go to in Italy.
The place to Keep in Rome
These are a couple of of the most effective neighborhoods in Rome for vacationers.
Campo de Fiori – Greatest for First-time Guests
The world round Campo de Fiori sq. is inside straightforward strolling distance of most of the essential points of interest in Rome. It’s additionally an incredible place to remain for these trying to discover a few of Rome’s greatest eating places, bars, and outlets.
That is an wonderful guesthouse situated proper on the sq..
Trastevere – Greatest for Price range Vacationers
The Trastevere neighborhood is a superb place to remain for price range vacationers who need to be near the primary sights, however a little bit additional away from the elevated costs of town middle. It has a relaxed environment with loads of eating places and bars round, in addition to parks and historic websites close by.
Take a look at this glorious price range one-bedroom condo.
Monti – Greatest for Households
Monti is ideal for households and people on the lookout for a extra peaceable expertise. Regardless of its central location, this neighborhood feels a lot calmer and fewer hectic than different areas of town. Take pleasure in its winding cobbled streets, quaint cafes, and impartial outlets and boutiques – it’s an incredible place to take issues sluggish and absorb the native environment.
This can be a nice 2-bedroom condo proper subsequent to the Colosseum.
Greatest Eating places in Rome
Don’t miss these nice locations to eat in Rome.
La Pergola
Presumably probably the most well-known restaurant in Rome, La Pergola is a 3-Michelin-starred tremendous eating restaurant that serves critically high-end connoisseur Italian meals. Additionally they have an unbelievable rooftop terrace providing among the greatest views in Rome.
Moma
Should you can’t get a desk at La Pergola, Moma is one other nice selection. This elegant restaurant makes a speciality of trendy, refined Italian delicacies and has a implausible number of native wines. It’s a little bit dear however price it for an important day.
Pizza e Mozzarella
One in every of my favourite locations to eat in Rome on a price range is Pizza e Mozzarella. They create wonderful, top-quality pizzas and you’ll feast to your coronary heart’s content material for lower than €10.
Issues To Do in Rome: FAQs
Listed here are solutions to some generally requested questions on visiting Rome.
Rome is without doubt one of the most iconic cities on the earth, identified for its structure and artwork, wealthy historical past, scrumptious meals, vibrant tradition, and epic landmarks.
Town may be visited year-round, with each season providing one thing totally different to see and do. Could and September are two of the greatest months to go to, with nice temperatures and fewer crowds than throughout the peak summer season season.
Completely! Rome is a superb vacation spot for each quick and lengthy journeys. There are such a lot of cool and strange issues to do in Rome for all ages and pursuits, from exploring historic ruins and underground catacombs to visiting artwork galleries, museums, and world-class eating places.
Sure! There are many locations to go and websites to see in Rome which might be free. You may go to many iconic landmarks such because the Trevi Fountain and the Spanish Steps, and discover town’s historic neighborhoods and piazzas, with out spending a penny.
There are numerous guided excursions accessible round Rome. I like to recommend testing GetYourGuide or Viator the place you may flick thru and guide among the top-rated excursions and actions to do in Rome.
Sure, you may simply discover town on foot and many of the greatest issues to do in Rome are inside straightforward strolling distance of town middle. Be sure you put on comfy sneakers – Rome is filled with slender cobblestone streets, and components of town are fairly hilly.
In Closing
Rome is without doubt one of the world’s most lovely and fascinating cities, with issues to do for folks of all ages and pursuits. No matter you select to do along with your time in Rome, I’m sure you’ll have an unforgettable time exploring this wonderful metropolis.
I hope you’ve discovered this put up helpful and informative. Take pleasure in Rome – it’s superior!
