Rome is an unimaginable, historic metropolis that continues to captivate and encourage numerous generations of vacationers and adventurers. There’s an virtually infinite record of issues to see, do, style, and listen to within the vibrant Italian capital. The Everlasting Metropolis is considered one of my favourite cities on this planet, and it’ll blow your thoughts.
On this put up, I’ve described 25 of one of the best issues to do in Rome. From exploring iconic landmarks and monuments just like the Colosseum and Trevi Fountain, studying in regards to 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 in search of 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 virtually actually need to return to. Get able to expertise considered one 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)
One of the crucial iconic landmarks on this planet; 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. Right this moment, one of the simplest ways to completely admire 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 will 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 advocate reserving your tickets properly upfront as they promote out quick and also you don’t need to be left upset.
2. Admire St Peter’s Basilica
One of the crucial vital and holy websites in all of Christianity, St Peter’s Basilica (Basilica di San Pietro) is one other must-see website and is without doubt one of the high locations to go to in Vatican Metropolis. It’s actually monumental and is dwelling to numerous priceless artworks and treasures from all over the world.
Outdoors 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 heart was introduced from Egypt in 1586.
Take a look at this wonderful guided tour of the Vatican, which incorporates St. Peter’s Basilica and different vital websites such because the Sistine Chapel and Vatican Museums (extra on these beneath). 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 the town is dwelling to among the greatest meals in Italy (which is saying loads!). There’s an infinite record of unimaginable locations to eat, from Michelin-starred high quality eating eating places to low-cost native eateries and incredible road meals stands.
Top-of-the-line issues to do in Rome is to affix a guided meals tour. You’ll achieve an perception into the town’s wealthy culinary tradition, and have the possibility to go to a few of Rome’s best delis and markets, the place you’ll get to style among the metropolis’s tastiest treats.
There are a lot of wonderful meals excursions all through the town, however this one is especially good. Your information will take you to take pleasure in a few of Rome’s greatest road meals and train you in regards to the historical past of the town’s best-loved delicacies, together with supplì, conventional Roman pizza, and varied seasonal dishes.
4. Tour the Pantheon
One in all historic Rome’s most well-preserved buildings, and among the best locations to go to in Rome, the Pantheon is a testomony to the grandeur and energy of historic Roman structure. The Pantheon was initially in-built 27 BC as a temple to the traditional Roman gods.
On the within, this place is just breathtaking, constructed with good proportions, an enormous dome overhead, and delightful sculptures, statues, and mosaics. Right this moment, 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 also be obligatory on weekends and public holidays. To totally admire this unimaginable constructing, I like to recommend becoming a member of a guided tour like this one (which additionally contains the doorway reservation).
Piazza Navona is considered one of Rome’s most vigorous squares and has many issues to supply guests starting from artwork galleries to gelaterias.
One in all my favourite issues to do right here is to choose up a scoop or two of scrumptious conventional gelato and watch the individuals of the town go about their each day enterprise.
Cremì is a very wonderful gelateria in Piazza Navona that gives 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 vital archaeological website 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 in regards to the historical past of this fascinating place.
Enable 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 good 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 significantly, and sampling among the metropolis’s best 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 ideal crispy crusts, the pizzas listed below are actually unimaginable. You possibly can both get entire pizzas made to order or purchase by the slice and take a look at just a few totally different toppings.
Alternatively, why not discover ways to make your individual pizza on this enjoyable and engaging masterclass?
8. Discover the Catacombs
The Catacombs of San Callisto are dwelling 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 wonderful guided tour to get essentially 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 unimaginable. 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 greater).
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 heart of Piazza di Trevi. Admire it from afar or courageous the crowds up shut – the selection is yours!
Positioned on the junction of three streets within the coronary heart of the town, the baroque masterpiece was designed by Italian artist Nicola Salvi and accomplished in 1762. It’s dwelling to quite a lot of sculpted figures and is illuminated at evening.
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 the 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 in-built 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 attractive gardens, or pack a picnic to take pleasure in underneath the shade of considered one of its many decorative timber.
Villa Borghese additionally comprises Galleria Borghese, considered one of Rome’s greatest and most vital 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 considered one of Rome’s most bohemian areas positioned on the west financial institution of the Tiber River. Its cobblestone streets are lined with colourful buildings, slim alleyways, bustling cafes, and conventional trattorias.
The world has a wealthy historical past that dates again to the Center Ages and considered one of its most important 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 a good way to get a way of on a regular basis life in Rome in the present day. The ambiance is buzzing day or evening, so be sure you add it to your record of enjoyable issues to do in Rome. You would additionally take a look at this highly-reviewed meals tour in Trastevere which incorporates dinner and wine.
12. Cruise Alongside the Tiber River
For a special perspective of Rome, take a calming cruise alongside the Tiber River which flows by the town. Cruises can be found all through the day and properly into the night and are probably the most 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 the town’s most iconic sights, the Spanish Steps is a must-see in Rome. Constructed by architect Francesco de Sanctis in 1725, this beautiful outside staircase is made up of 138 steps that hyperlink two piazzas: Trinità dei Monti and Piazza di Spagna.
The steps and plazas are charmingly adorned 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 ravishing Baroque-style church in-built 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 make sure you control your belongings right here.
14. Tour the Roman Discussion board
Positioned 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 website and probably the most visited vacationer points of interest in Rome.
The Discussion board was dwelling to among the most vital 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 undoubtedly advocate taking a guided tour to discover these in depth ruins, because it’s a good way to find out about their historical past and significance. That is among the best excursions that additionally features a go to to the Colosseum and Palatine Hill.
15. Go Procuring in Through dei Condotti
In the event you’re into procuring, you’ll love looking the designer and luxurious outlets in Through dei Condotti. This iconic procuring road is dwelling to among the world’s high trend manufacturers.
It’s actually not an inexpensive place to buy. Nonetheless, even for those who don’t need to spend any cash right here, Through dei Condotti is an fascinating and enticing place to wander as you are taking within the glamorous ambiance.
That is one other excellent spot for people-watching (there are many spots in Rome!), because it’s standard with the town’s elite. It’s additionally very centrally positioned 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 unimaginable instance of historic Roman engineering. It’s positioned on the banks of the Tiber River and is considered one 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.
Right this moment, 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 advocate shopping for a skip-the-line ticket upfront to avoid wasting you from having to face in an extended queue when you’re there.
17. Get pleasure from a Excessive-Finish Dinner
Rome is dwelling to numerous incredible eating places, from easy conventional trattorias to well-known, multiple-Michelin-starred high quality eating eating places. For a very 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 have to guide properly upfront to safe a desk at any of those well-known eating places, so bear this in thoughts once 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 positioned within the Vatican Metropolis, subsequent to St. Peter’s Basilica. This unimaginable constructing is known 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 Previous 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 have to guide tickets upfront as they typically promote out.
19. Discover Rome’s Jewish Quarter
Positioned on the banks of the Tiber River, Rome’s Jewish Quarter is without doubt one of the oldest on this planet. It was established in 1555 by Pope Paul IV who compelled Rome’s Jewish inhabitants to relocate to this district of the town and made them stay in a ghetto, separate from the town’s different residents.
The neighborhood is dwelling 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 enchanting place to discover (both by your self or as a part of a strolling tour) and is a good way to study extra about Rome’s Jewish historical past and tradition. The road meals right here can also be scrumptious!
20. Get pleasure from 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 part of them for a chunk to eat and a glass of wine or a spritz whereas absorbing the hustle and bustle of Roman life.
The piazza can also be dwelling 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 best issues to do in Rome at evening.
21. Take a Day Journey to Tivoli
A brief distance outdoors of Rome lies the picturesque city of Tivoli, considered one 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 strain – no pumps), grottoes, and shaded seating areas.
Hadrian’s Villa, positioned simply outdoors Tivoli, can also be properly 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 vital collections of artwork and sculpture, in addition to some unimaginable 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 monumental and include over 70,000 displays displayed throughout 54 galleries. Established within the early Sixteenth century, these in depth and various collections span quite a lot of cultures from historic Egypt to Renaissance Italy.
Housed inside the partitions of Vatican Metropolis, the museums supply an enchanting perception into the historical past and tradition of Europe and past. You possibly can guide a tour of the museums right here.
23. Verify Out the Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore
This gorgeous basilica is considered one 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. Positioned within the Esquiline Hill space of the 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 commonly 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
In the event you (like me) love Italian meals, among the best 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 a lot of 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 all 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 can too take pleasure in some wonderful views of the town from right here – don’t miss it!
Fast Journey Itineraries For Rome
I’ve put collectively just a few temporary itineraries that can assist you take advantage of your time on this unimaginable metropolis.
1 Day in Rome Itinerary
Actually, someday actually isn’t sufficient time to see Rome correctly. Nonetheless, if that is the one time you have got, I like to recommend selecting among the high Rome highlights and specializing in these, somewhat than making an attempt 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 possibly can 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 rapidly.
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.
In case you have a 3rd day, both contemplate taking a cooking class and discover the 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 have the ability to do most (if not all) of the issues described on this put up, and it’ll enable you adequate time to get a extremely good sense of the 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. Make sure to take a full day exploring Tivoli, and no less than half a day to go to Ostia Antica.
Additionally, for those who’re visiting Rome as a part of an extended journey to Italy, take a look at this put up on the 30 high locations to go to in Italy.
The place to Keep in Rome
These are just a few of one of the best 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 most important points of interest in Rome. It’s additionally an incredible place to remain for these seeking to discover a few of Rome’s greatest eating places, bars, and outlets.
That is an wonderful guesthouse positioned 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 the town heart. It has a relaxed ambiance with loads of eating places and bars round, in addition to parks and historic websites close by.
Take a look at this wonderful price range one-bedroom condo.
Monti – Greatest for Households
Monti is ideal for households and people in search of a extra peaceable expertise. Regardless of its central location, this neighborhood feels a lot calmer and fewer hectic than different areas of the town. Get pleasure from its winding cobbled streets, quaint cafes, and impartial outlets and boutiques – it’s an incredible place to take issues gradual and absorb the native ambiance.
It is 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 essentially the most well-known restaurant in Rome, La Pergola is a 3-Michelin-starred high quality eating restaurant that serves significantly high-end connoisseur Italian meals. In addition they have an unimaginable rooftop terrace providing among the greatest views in Rome.
Moma
In the event you can’t get a desk at La Pergola, Moma is one other nice alternative. This elegant restaurant makes a speciality of trendy, refined Italian delicacies and has a incredible number of native wines. It’s a little bit expensive however price it for an important day.
Pizza e Mozzarella
One in all 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 this planet, identified for its structure and artwork, wealthy historical past, scrumptious meals, vibrant tradition, and epic landmarks.
The town might be visited year-round, with each season providing one thing totally different to see and do. Might 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 weird 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 possibly can go to many iconic landmarks such because the Trevi Fountain and the Spanish Steps, and discover the town’s historic neighborhoods and piazzas, with out spending a penny.
There are a lot of guided excursions obtainable round Rome. I like to recommend trying out 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 the town on foot and many of the greatest issues to do in Rome are inside straightforward strolling distance of the town heart. Make sure to put on comfy sneakers – Rome is stuffed with slim cobblestone streets, and components of the 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 individuals of all ages and pursuits. No matter you select to do together 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. Get pleasure from Rome – it’s superior!