Rome is an unbelievable, historical metropolis that continues to captivate and encourage numerous generations of vacationers and adventurers. There’s an virtually countless 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 the planet, and it’ll blow your thoughts.
On this submit, I’ve described 25 of the very best 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+ 12 months previous, to indulging in its scrumptious delicacies and energetic 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 definitely need to return to. Get able to expertise considered one of Europe’s most energetic, 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 sights, 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)
Probably the most iconic landmarks on the planet; no journey to Rome is full with out seeing this epic amphitheater – the most important ever constructed by the Roman Empire. In-built 72 AD, the Colosseum has stood as an emblem of Rome’s energy and energy for nearly 2,000 years.
In historical instances, the Colosseum was used for brutal gladiator battles and animal fights. Right now, the easiest way to totally recognize 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 tours and permits you to skip the infamous line for tickets. Your information may also take you to the well-known Roman Discussion board, and Palatine Hill, so it’s nice worth for cash.
As you’d count on, the Colosseum is without doubt one of the hottest locations to go to in Rome. I strongly advocate reserving your tickets effectively prematurely as they promote out quick and also you don’t need to be left disenchanted.
2. Admire St Peter’s Basilica
Probably the most 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 prime locations to go to in Vatican Metropolis. It’s really monumental and is residence to numerous priceless artistic endeavors and treasures from around the globe.
Exterior the cathedral lies St Peter’s Sq., the middle of worldwide 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 excellent 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 Site on account of its appreciable cultural significance and significance.
3. Take a Meals Tour
Rome is a paradise for foodies and the town is residence to a few of the greatest meals in Italy (which is saying quite a bit!). There’s an countless record of unbelievable locations to eat, from Michelin-starred effective eating eating places to low cost native eateries and unbelievable avenue meals stands.
Among the finest issues to do in Rome is to affix a guided food 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 most interesting delis and markets, the place you’ll get to style a few of the metropolis’s tastiest treats.
There are various glorious meals excursions all through the town, however this one is particularly 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 the town’s best-loved delicacies, together with supplì, conventional Roman pizza, and varied seasonal dishes.
4. Tour the Pantheon
Certainly one of historical Rome’s most well-preserved buildings, and the most effective locations to go to in Rome, the Pantheon is a testomony to the grandeur and energy of historical Roman structure. The Pantheon was initially in-built 27 BC as a temple to the traditional Roman gods.
On the within, this place is solely breathtaking, constructed with excellent proportions, an enormous dome overhead, and delightful sculptures, statues, and mosaics. Right now, 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, nevertheless 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 completely recognize this unbelievable constructing, I like to recommend joining a guided tour like this one (which additionally contains the doorway reservation).
Piazza Navona is considered one of Rome’s most energetic squares and has many issues to supply guests starting from artwork galleries to gelaterias.
Certainly one of my favourite issues to do right here is to select up a scoop or two of scrumptious conventional gelato and watch the individuals of the 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 vital archaeological website with many well-preserved ruins and artifacts.
It’s simple 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 be taught 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 a few of 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 below are actually unbelievable. You may both get complete pizzas made to order or purchase by the slice and check out just a few completely different toppings.
Alternatively, why not discover ways to make your individual pizza on this fun and tasty masterclass?
8. Discover the Catacombs
The Catacombs of San Callisto are residence to one of many oldest Christian burial websites in Rome, relationship again to the 2nd century AD. This fascinating complicated 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 historical 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 excellent 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 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 prime 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 the town, the baroque masterpiece was designed by Italian artist Nicola Salvi and accomplished in 1762. It’s residence to quite a few sculpted figures and is illuminated at evening.
This fountain has lengthy been an emblem 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 below the shade of considered one of its many decorative timber.
Villa Borghese additionally accommodates 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, slender 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 predominant sights 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 at the moment. The ambiance is buzzing day or evening, so be sure you add it to your record of enjoyable issues to do in Rome. You possibly can additionally try this highly-reviewed food tour in Trastevere which incorporates dinner and wine.
12. Cruise Alongside the Tiber River
For a special perspective of Rome, take a soothing cruise along the Tiber River which flows via the town. Cruises can be found all through the day and effectively 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 prime sights 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 attractive 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 embellished with flowers all through the spring and summer time months and on the prime of the steps, you’ll discover the Church of Trinità dei Monti – an attractive 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 a terrific spot for people-watching, though it could get very busy so be sure you regulate your belongings right here.
14. Tour the Roman Discussion board
Situated between the Palatine and Capitoline Hills in Rome, the Forum was as soon as the political, spiritual, and industrial coronary heart of historical Rome. It’s now a big archaeological website and probably the most visited vacationer sights in Rome.
The Discussion board was residence to a few of the most vital spiritual 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 advocate 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 one of the best tours that additionally features a go to to the Colosseum and Palatine Hill.
15. Go Purchasing in By way of dei Condotti
In case you’re into buying, you’ll love searching the designer and luxurious outlets in Via dei Condotti. This iconic buying avenue is residence to a few of the world’s prime trend manufacturers.
It’s definitely not an affordable place to buy. Nonetheless, even in the event you don’t need to spend any cash right here, By way of dei Condotti is an attention-grabbing and engaging place to wander as you are taking within the glamorous ambiance.
That is one other great spot for people-watching (there are many spots in Rome!), because it’s fashionable 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 powerful round fortress and one other unbelievable instance of historical 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 now, 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 buying a skip-the-line ticket prematurely to save lots of you from having to face in an extended queue when you’re there.
17. Take pleasure in a Excessive-Finish Dinner
Rome is residence to numerous unbelievable eating places, from easy conventional trattorias to well-known, multiple-Michelin-starred effective 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 embody La Pergola, All’Oro, and Moma. You’ll have to 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 prime locations to go to in Rome and is positioned 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 lots of the partitions and depict scenes from the Previous Testomony.
The chapel additionally varieties a part of the Pope’s official residence and is the place “papal conclaves” happen, the place members of the Faculty of Cardinals meet when it’s time to elect a brand new pope.
Visiting the Sistine Chapel is without doubt one of the prime issues to do in Rome and it could get very crowded (although it’s nonetheless 100% price going). Tours run throughout the day, and also you’ll have to 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 planet. It was established in 1555 by Pope Paul IV who pressured Rome’s Jewish inhabitants to relocate to this district of the town and made them reside in a ghetto, separate from the 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 enchanting place to discover (both by your self or as part of a walking tour) and is an effective way to be taught extra about Rome’s Jewish historical past and tradition. The road meals right here can also 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 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 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 the most effective 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 a few of the most lovely gardens and villas in Italy. I spent a few days in Tivoli final 12 months and actually beloved it.
My favourite place was Villa d’Este, a big Sixteenth-century cardinal’s villa constructed on prime of an historical Roman palace. Essentially 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 effectively price a go to. Tivoli can get slightly busy in the summertime months however continues to be often 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 unbelievable mosaics, and frescoes. Right here, you’ll be able to marvel at masterpieces from a few of 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 historical Egypt to Renaissance Italy.
Housed inside the partitions of Vatican Metropolis, the museums provide an enchanting perception into the historical past and tradition of Europe and past. You may guide a tour of the museums here.
23. Test 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. Situated within the Esquiline Hill space of the town, it’s a terrific place to spend an hour or so. That is additionally one of many (barely) much less fashionable locations to go to in Rome so is commonly slightly extra peaceable.
Take a guided tour to be taught extra about it or just admire the fantastic thing about this wonderful place.
24. Take a Cooking Class
In case you (like me) love Italian meals, the most effective issues to do in Rome is to take an authentic 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 various completely different choices to select from, together with pizza-making classes, 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 guts of historical Rome to Castel Sant’Angelo. It was initially constructed by Emperor Hadrian and is one other must-see place in Rome.
Certainly one 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 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 unbelievable metropolis.
1 Day in Rome Itinerary
Actually, in the future actually isn’t sufficient time to see Rome correctly. Nonetheless, if that is the one time you will have, I like to recommend choosing a few of the top Rome highlights and specializing in these, quite 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 may take pleasure in lots 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 a few of the metropolis’s different iconic sights similar to 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 the town’s Jewish Quarter, or take a day journey to Tivoli to admire the villas and ornate gardens.
1 Week in Rome Itinerary
Every 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 submit, 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 submit throughout your remaining days. You should definitely take a full day exploring Tivoli, and at the very least half a day to go to Ostia Antica.
Additionally, in the event you’re visiting Rome as a part of an extended journey to Italy, try this submit on the 30 top places to visit in Italy.
The place to Keep in Rome
These are just a few of the very best neighborhoods in Rome for vacationers.
Campo de Fiori – Greatest for First-time Guests
The world round Campo de Fiori sq. is inside simple strolling distance of lots of the predominant sights in Rome. It’s additionally a terrific place to remain for these seeking to discover a few of Rome’s greatest eating places, bars, and outlets.
That is an amazing guesthouse positioned proper on the sq..
Trastevere – Greatest for Price range Vacationers
The Trastevere neighborhood is a superb place to remain for funds vacationers who need to be near the primary sights, however slightly additional away from the elevated costs of the town middle. 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 glorious budget one-bedroom apartment.
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. Take pleasure in its winding cobbled streets, quaint cafes, and unbiased outlets and boutiques – it’s a terrific place to take issues sluggish and take in the native ambiance.
It is a nice 2-bedroom apartment 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 effective eating restaurant that serves critically high-end gourmand Italian meals. In addition they have an unbelievable rooftop terrace providing a few of the greatest views in Rome.
Moma
In case you can’t get a desk at La Pergola, Moma is one other nice selection. This elegant restaurant makes a speciality of fashionable, refined Italian delicacies and has a unbelievable collection of native wines. It’s slightly expensive however price it for a special day.
Pizza e Mozzarella
Certainly one of my favourite locations to eat in Rome on a funds 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 planet, recognized for its structure and artwork, wealthy historical past, scrumptious meals, vibrant tradition, and epic landmarks.
The town will be visited year-round, with each season providing one thing completely different to see and do. Might and September are two of the best months to visit, with nice temperatures and fewer crowds than throughout the peak summer time season.
Completely! Rome is a superb vacation spot for each brief and lengthy journeys. There are such a lot of cool and strange issues to do in Rome for all ages and pursuits, from exploring historical 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 the town’s historic neighborhoods and piazzas, with out spending a penny.
There are various guided excursions obtainable round Rome. I like to recommend testing GetYourGuide or Viator the place you’ll be able to flick thru and guide a few of the top-rated excursions and actions to do in Rome.
Sure, you’ll be able to simply discover the town on foot and many of the greatest issues to do in Rome are inside simple strolling distance of the town middle. You should definitely put on snug sneakers – Rome is stuffed with slender cobblestone streets, and components of the town are fairly hilly.
In Closing
Rome is without doubt one of the world’s most lovely and charming cities, with issues to do for individuals 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 submit helpful and informative. Take pleasure in Rome – it’s superior!
