top five places to visit in rome

Rome   Travel Guide

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24 Best Things to Do in Rome

Take time to enjoy  la dolce vita  – even a week isn't long enough to experience everything Rome has to offer. From historic tours through ancient Rome to admiring art-filled institutions to climbing the Spanish Steps or  St. Peter's Basilica ,

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Colosseum (Colosseo) Colosseum (Colosseo)

U.S. News Insider Tip: A normal ticket includes the Colosseum, Roman Forum and Palatine Hill (valid for 24 hours) and you can visit all three in one day. It doesn't include a visit to the Colosseum's underground tunnels. For that, you'll have to book a guided tour. – Laura Itzkowitz

The site of many bloody gladiatorial fights, the Colosseum, which was opened in A.D. 80, could then hold about 50,000 spectators. With a circumference of 573 yards and sitting on marshland, experts say the Colosseum is an engineering wonder… not to mention an animal and human rights atrocity. Not only were gladiators pitted against each other, but gladiators fighting animals and animal-on-animal fights were common as well. Today, it's considered one of the world's most famous landmarks .

Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel

U.S. News Insider Tip: The Vatican Museums contain some of the greatest artworks ever made, but it's also one of Rome's most crowded spots. Consider paying a bit extra to join an early morning tour before the museum opens or check for late opening hours. – Laura Itzkowitz

While Vatican City is home to both the Roman Catholic Church's governing body and its leader, the pope, this small nation within Rome offers a wealth of attractions open to visitors of any faith.

St. Peter's Basilica (Basilica di San Pietro) St. Peter's Basilica (Basilica di San Pietro) free

The epicenter of Roman Catholicism, St. Peter's Basilica is centered in Vatican City and is renowned for its stunning architecture. What's more, it's open daily for free. (Though it's closed on Wednesday mornings for pope appearances.) Many visitors enjoy trekking to the top of the dome. For a fee of 8 euros (about $8.65), you can climb the 551 steps to the summit; for a fee of 10 euros (about $10.80), you can take an elevator to a terrace where you'll climb just 320. Regardless, you'll take in a panorama of Rome's spectacular landscape. If you've come hoping to catch a glimpse of the pope, you should consider attending the Wednesday General Audience, when he addresses the crowd in St. Peter's Square with prayers and songs. It's free to attend, but tickets are required ; you should request them well in advance of your visit. You'll also want to make sure he is in residence; check the Vatican website to view the schedule. No ticket is required to see the pope on Sundays, when he usually address the crowd in St. Peter's Square at noon.

Keep in mind that this is an active church with daily Mass services. Likewise, a stringent dress code is enforced: No short skirts, low-cut tops, hats or bare shoulders, and be sure to cover any tattoos. Because St. Peter's Basilica is one of the area's major attractions, there is almost always a long queue – though it tends to go fast. Recent travelers recommend you spring for a tour guide ; the depth of insight they bring to the basilica really makes the experience. For more information on tours, read our tips for visiting the Vatican and its attractions.

Popular Tours

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Roman Forum Roman Forum

Though it's not as popular as the  Colosseum  (but located nearby), the Roman Forum is more interesting, according to some reviewers. The Roman Forum comprises much of the Ancient Rome's most important structures, from shrines to government houses to monuments. Although much of the complex is in ruins, you can see the remains and imagine the former glory of the Arch of Septimius Severus, the Temple of Saturn, the Arch of Titus and the House of the Vestal Virgins, among other structures.

Recent travelers called a visit to the Roman Forum a "must," but they do advise future visitors to rent or stream an audio guide or sign up for one of the best Rome tours (according to reviewers, little is written on the informational plaques). Past visitors also suggest allotting plenty of time to see the ruins and wearing weather-appropriate attire as there is little to no shade at the site.  

Trevi Fountain (Fontana di Trevi) Trevi Fountain (Fontana di Trevi) free

A must-see on many travelers' itineraries, the Trevi Fountain is situated amongst a high concentration of hotels , shopping and nightlife in the Trevi district. Finished in the mid-1700s, the Trevi is a powerful example of a baroque design with a distinctly mythological character. The god of the sea, Oceanus, emerges from the pool, flanked by his trusty Tritons. 

According to Roman lore, throwing one, two or three coins into the Trevi, with your right hand over your left shoulder ensures you'll return to Rome; you'll fall in love with an attractive Roman; and you'll marry that same Roman. An added bonus? The city collets the money tossed into the fountain and donates it to a local charity.

Pantheon Pantheon

U.S. News Insider Tip: After visiting the Pantheon, stop for an espresso at the historic Tazza d'Oro Caffè or walk a few blocks to the old-school gelateria, Giolitti, for a cone of the good stuff. – Laura Itzkowitz

The Pantheon, a former Roman temple and now a present-day church, is known for its perfect proportions, which is amazing, seeing as it was raised in A.D. 120. While you're there, you can also pay your respects to Raphael, as well as Italian kings Victor Emmanuel II and Umberto I, who are all buried there.

Piazza Navona Piazza Navona free

U.S. News Insider Tip: To enjoy a coffee or Aperol spritz on the piazza, grab a table at Camillo, but if you want to eat, it's best to avoid the tourist trap restaurants on the piazza and explore the side streets instead. – Laura Itzkowitz

The centuries-old Piazza Navona is perhaps one of the best-known public squares in Rome. People sipping coffees while watching street performers and artists fill the square. Cafes abound, and there are a number of shops, too, although recent visitors said both tend to be expensive. You'll also find a number of impressive monuments, including one by Gian Lorenzo Bernini ( Fountain of the Four Rivers ) and another by Francesco Borromini (Sant'Agnese in Agone). 

Fontana dei Quattro Fiumi Fontana dei Quattro Fiumi free

Much like Piazza del Popolo , Piazza Navona 's centerpiece features an obelisk. However, in this case, the obelisk is surrounded by one of Bernini's masterpieces: Fontana dei Quattro Fiumi. The four figures at each corner of the statue are a personification of the four rivers best known to Europe in the 1600s. The rivers are the Ganges (Asia), the Danube (Europe), the Nile (Africa) and Río de la Plata (Americas). Animals, plants and other iconography help to further differentiate the four nudes.

Travelers invariably have high praise for the fountain's artistry, saying that it is a must-see.

Rome: Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill Guided Tour

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Spanish Steps (Piazza di Spagna) Spanish Steps (Piazza di Spagna) free

U.S. News Insider Tip: During the era of the Grand Tour, the area around the Spanish Steps earned the nickname of the English Ghetto. Immerse yourself in the area's English past with a visit to the Keats-Shelley House or afternoon tea at Babington's. – Laura Itzkowitz

Found at the Piazza di Spagna, the Spanish Steps (which get their name from the nearby Embassy of Spain among the Holy See) are another must-do for many travelers. Here, visitors can tread the same stairs that writers and artists have climbed for centuries. The steps are especially alluring come spring when they're flanked by blooming azaleas.

Piazza del Popolo Piazza del Popolo free

U.S. News Insider Tip: If you want to do some people-watching on the piazza, skip the expensive and overrated Rosati and go to Canova across the piazza instead. It was frequented by famed filmmaker Federico Fellini, whose drawings decorate the halls inside. – Laura Itzkowitz

Piazza del Popolo is yet another Roman square where you can take in phenomenal architecture and magnificent sculpture. The square dates back to the mid-1500s and is the historic center of Rome. In fact, three major roads intersect here: Via di Ripetta, Via del Corso and Via del Babuino.

Galleria Borghese Galleria Borghese

U.S. News Insider Tip: Don't forget to purchase your timed ticket in advance. Afterward, spend some time strolling through the Villa Borghese park, which has attractions like a little lake, a replica of Shakespeare's Globe Theatre and a few small museums. – Laura Itzkowitz

A favorite among travelers to Rome, the Galleria Borghese is half-villa/half-museum, and it has some resplendent gardens, too. Originally commissioned by Cardinal Scipione Borghese in the 17th century to shelter his massive art collection, it's now considered one of the premier art galleries in the city. The villa's extravagant rooms, spread across two floors, are filled with famous works, including Canova's Venus Victrix, Bernini's sculptures David and Apollo and Daphne, and Caravaggio's "Boy with a Basket of Fruit" and "David with the Head of Goliath," among other masterpieces.

Campo de' Fiori Campo de' Fiori free

The Campo de' Fiori is worth visiting twice in a trip – once during the day for its bustling market, and again as the sun sets for its convivial nightlife. According to historians, the Campo de' Fiori looks much the same as it did in the early 1800s, except for the numerous pizzerias, cafes and gelaterias that line the periphery.

Recent travelers raved about the people-watching throughout the day; the fresh veggies and fruits at the market and the hopping bar scene at night. Some warned that the market is overrun with tourists and not the most authentic market experience in Rome. Even if you don't plan on eating or buying anything within the area, the architecture alone may be enough of a draw, as it was for some.

Church of St. Louis of the French Church of St. Louis of the French free

If you're a fan of Caravaggio, you'll want to visit the San Luigi dei Francesi, or the Church of St. Louis of the French. Inside this church near  Piazza Navona are three of the baroque artist's works, including the "The Calling of St. Matthew" (one of his most famous paintings), "Saint Matthew and the Angel" and "The Martyrdom of Saint Matthew."

Recent visitors recommend stopping in the church, especially if want to get a glimpse of some of Caravaggio's most famous works. Several reviewers recommended reading up on the works before visiting as there is no information within the church. However, you can access a prerecorded audio tour by downloading it to your smartphone from a QR code available on-site.

Skip the Line: Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel with St. Peter's Basilica Access

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Capitoline Museums (Musei Capitolini) Capitoline Museums (Musei Capitolini)

The  Musei Capitolini  (Capitoline Museums) dates back to the 1400s, and it holds Rome's symbol, the bronze Capitoline She-wolf. According to lore, the wolf nursed the half-wolf, half-god founders of the city, twins Romulus and Remus. Its namesake museum contains busts of Roman emperors, statues – including a famous one of Marcus Aurelius – and paintings by Caravaggio and Battista, among others. It also offers spectacular views of the Roman Forum .

Several travelers mention that though the Capitoline Museums wasn't high on their list of things to do or see, they're very happy they did see it. Reviewers also urge visitors to look up at the magnificent ceilings. Some note that the museum has a bit of an odd layout with little information about the paintings. Others say the staff can be rude.

Trastevere Trastevere free

If you want a look at the real Rome, experts and travelers strongly recommend you visit Trastevere. Located southeast of Vatican City, this neighborhood is home to the Basilica of Santa Maria in Trastevere, as well as numerous restaurants and neighborhood shops (it's often compared to New York City 's Greenwich Village or Paris 's Left Bank thanks to its charming cobblestone streets and narrow roads). 

Although a little farther from the city center, Trastevere is a hit with visitors who appreciated the distance, noting that after so many days weaving through crowds and getting stuck in tourist traps, it's nice to explore a quieter neighborhood (with cheaper, more authentic food). Travelers also said they felt like they experienced a genuine look into life as a Roman after having visited Trastevere.

Santa Maria della Vittoria Santa Maria della Vittoria free

This featured chapel from Dan Brown's "Angels & Demons" is now heavily trafficked by Robert Langdon wannabes. But baroque art fans might want to brave the crowds for a look at Gian Lorenzo Bernini's Cornaro Chapel, which features the Ecstasy of St. Teresa statue.

Recent visitors can't stop gushing about Santa Maria della Vittoria. Many said the church is nothing short of stunning, noting that the detail of Bernini's Ecstasy of Saint Teresa is truly incredible. However, travelers also noted that the church is relatively small compared to some of the city's other masterpieces, so prepare for a tight space during peak tourist season (summer). Others warn of odd opening times.

Museo Nazionale di Castel Sant'Angelo Museo Nazionale di Castel Sant'Angelo

The Castel Sant'Angelo has had many purposes over its lifetime. Originally built as a mausoleum for Roman emperor Hadrian, the castle has also been a place of protection for popes during invasions, papal residences, military barracks and a prison. Today, it's a museum showcasing not only the site's military history but also incredible frescoes (which were added to the building when the castle became a residence).

For many visitors, admiring the frescoes and learning the history of the site made for a pleasant stop. However, the top draw for many are the views. The top floor terrace (Terrace of the Angel) provides outstanding vistas of Rome.

Basilica di San Clemente Basilica di San Clemente free

Archaeology buffs might find the Basilica di San Clemente interesting as it's a veritable nesting doll of churches. It's a second century pagan temple, underneath a fourth-century church, which is underneath a 12th-century church. Enter the 12th-century church from the street level, take stairs down to the fourth-century one and finally end up at a shrine for Mithras, the god whom was known to gain popularity in the second and third centuries. The oldest structure is believed to have been an ancient mint.

Travelers are fascinated by the story of the church and recommend visiting for the history lesson that it provides. Past travelers also said you should ignore the panhandlers who linger around the church, as some pretend to be affiliated with the church and tell visitors they can't enter unless they give a donation. The church is free to enter, but there is a fee to go down to the lower levels, which people say is worth the cost. To visit the lower levels, you'll pay 10 euros (about $11) for adults and 5 euros (about $5) for students up to age 26. Children younger than 16 explore for free.

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Ancient Appian Way Ancient Appian Way free

The Ancient Appian Way (Via Appia Antica) has a history that dates back to 312 B.C. and includes the site of Spartacus' execution (in 71 B.C.), the tomb of Caecilia Metella, and many a Roman military march. These days, it stretches for 38.5 miles, though several monuments and historic sites are centered around an approximately 2-mile stretch along Parco dell'Appia Antica. The park sits roughly 2 miles south of the Colosseum . 

Recent visitors said the Appian Way is worth the long trek. Some even recommend hiring a tour guide to tag along with you, as even the smallest details along the walk provide a lot of insight into days past. Many agreed that visitors should come prepared with good walking shoes and water. Other advised visiting during the day as some areas can be seedy at night. 

Colle del Gianicolo Colle del Gianicolo free

To the west of the Tiber River (near another top attraction,  Trastevere ), Colle del Gianicolo, or the Janiculum Hill, is just waiting to be climbed. Although a hike, the site provides unobstructed, panoramic views of the Eternal City. Once at the top, visitors will be able to spot some of Rome's most famous buildings, including  St. Peter's Basilica  and the Altare della Patria. Interestingly, since it sits outside the ancient city, it's not considered one of the seven hills of Rome. Along with the spectacular views, you'll also spot a few monuments, including the Fontana dell'Acqua Paola, or Il Fontanone, which was originally built in the early 1600s.

Travelers report being impressed by the views of Janiculum Hill, with many recommending a visit at sunrise or sunset for a truly breathtaking experience. Though many don't consider it a "must-see," especially for first-time visitors, reviewers did concede that a trek here offers a nice respite from the city's crowded tourist spots.

Palazzo Doria Pamphilj Palazzo Doria Pamphilj

Rome is full of aristocratic palaces whose splendors are hidden behind closed doors. One such place is the Palazzo Doria Pamphilj right on the bustling Via del Corso. Enter and you'll find yourself in a quiet courtyard that feels a world away from the crowds. Upstairs, spend some time marveling at the hall of mirrors, which looks like a smaller version of the one at Versailles , with gold-framed Venetian mirrors, antique statues and chandeliers. The palazzo dates all the way back to the 16th century and the gallery that encircles the courtyard was renovated in the 18th century, with the paintings that form the family's private art collection still displayed as they were in the 1700s. Among them are paintings by Raphael and Caravaggio. In the Velázquez Cabinet at the end of one of the halls is a marble bust of Pope Innocent X by Gian Lorenzo Bernini and a portrait of the pope by Velázquez.

For a few extra euros, you can also visit the "secret apartment," which is supposedly still used sometimes by the princess. Inside it, you'll see the family's furniture and personal objects, like a desk with writing implements, hairbrushes and beds. It's far more intimate than the typical museum experience and might just make you feel like you've stepped into a scene from the Oscar-winning film "La Grande Bellezza," director Paolo Sorrentino's modern-day take on "La Dolce Vita."

Jewish Ghetto Jewish Ghetto free

Sandwiched between the Tiber River and Campo de' Fiori is a neighborhood that was historically home to Rome's Jewish population, the oldest Jewish community in Europe. A papal edict in 1555 created the ghetto, which was walled off from the rest of the city until 1888. It also established laws about what professions Jews could and couldn't hold. To learn more about the neighborhood, you should visit the Jewish Museum of Rome attached to the Great Synagogue, which displays religious artifacts and explains the area's history in a series of panels. A guided tour of the Great Synagogue is included in the museum's admission price and is the only way to see the ornately decorated synagogue without attending religious services.

Recent visitors praised the beautiful synagogue and said the neighborhood is a "hidden gem" in Rome. Travelers say the neighborhood is worth a few hours of your time.

Mercato di Testaccio Mercato di Testaccio free

For a less touristy alternative to the market at Campo de' Fiori , venture beyond the historic center to the Mercato di Testaccio. The large covered market is filled with stalls selling fresh fruit, vegetables, fish and meat, where Romans do their daily shopping. It's also home to a handful of stalls where you can purchase prepared food, like sandwiches and pizza. Take a number and wait your turn for delicious pizza al taglio at Casa Manco. Ask for a few small slices so you can try more than one topping.

For sandwiches, the place to go is Mordi e Vai, a hole-in-the-wall stall serving sandwiches made with the offcuts that form the backbone of Roman cuisine. Indeed, the quinto quarto tradition of Roman cooking was born in right here in Testaccio. The neighborhood was once home to the city's slaughterhouse and the working-class families who lived here created recipes using the less prized cuts of meat, including the organs, that were cheaper. Many restaurants in the neighborhood are known for this type of cooking, with signature dishes like trippa alla romana (Roman-style tripe with tomato sauce, pecorino and mint) and coda alla vaccinara (oxtail stew). If you're not into that kind of stuff, Mordi e Vai always has a vegetarian option available.

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MAXXI MAXXI

If you've had enough of ancient and Baroque art, consider visiting one of Rome's modern and contemporary art museums. MAXXI – an acronym for the National Museum of 21st Century Art – is located in the residential Flaminio neighborhood north of Piazza del Popolo and was designed by the late Iraqi-British starchitect Zaha Hadid. The building itself is a masterpiece of modern architecture, with dramatic sweeping lines, steel staircases that seem to float in the air, and galleries with glass ceilings. The collection comprises more than 400 works of art by Italian and international artists, including Andy Warhol, Francesco Clemente and Gerhard Richter, as well as a collection of material related to architecture. It ranges from photography and film to art installations and performance art.

Before you go, check to see what's on display. Past exhibitions have featured Bob Dylan's videos, the work of Italian filmmaker Pier Paolo Pasolini, and the architecture of Lina Bo Bardi, a midcentury modern trailblazer and one of the few female architects working at that time. MAXXI has also hosted special off-site exhibitions and events, including guided tours of Casa Balla, the apartment of futurist artist Giacomo Balla.

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The 26 Best Things to Do in Rome

By Maresa Manara and Katie Parla

In such an ancient and dense place, prioritizing which corners to see can be an overwhelming task. How do you even start to figure out what to do in Rome? To shed some light on that impenetrable question, we've pulled together a list of world-famous sites and lesser-known destinations—museums, markets, archeological and architectural marvels—that will provide you with the full spectrum of outstanding experiences the Italian capital has to offer. Whether you have only a day in the city or a couple weeks (or return visits) to explore every detail, this list will help you pull together an itinerary you won't forget.

Read our complete Rome travel guide here .

Every review on this list has been written by a Condé Nast Traveler journalist who knows the destination and has visited that activity. When choosing things to do, our editors consider landmarks and experiences that offer an insider’s view of a destination, keeping authenticity, location, service, and sustainability credentials top of mind. This gallery has been updated with new information since its original publish date.

Palazzo Spada Arrow

Near Campo dei Fiori yet blissfully uncrowded, Palazzo Spada is a striking historic palace built in the 16 th century and redesigned by Roman architect Borromini in the 17th century. Inside there’s a rich art collection with Renaissance and Baroque masters, and outside there’s a peaceful courtyard where eight impressive colonnades create a mesmerising optical illusion. The palace itself is exquisitely Baroque, with elegant, perfect symmetry and ornate decorations. Inside, there are walls plastered in frescoes, immaculate stucco work, and grand halls of opulent, gilded marble. Palazzo Spada houses an incredible art collection, with paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts by artists including Titian and Caravaggio. Don’t miss the Borromini Perspective Gallery, a masterclass in optical illusion where a corridor appears to be much longer than it actually is.

Monte Mario Nature Reserve Arrow

A hike through this huge nature reserve—the highest of Rome’s ‘seven hills’—makes for a great alternative to Villa Borghese, with a fraction of the crowds, and fantastic views over the city. The Monte Mario Natural Reserve spans around 100 hectares, with nature trails wending through canopies of oak trees, pines and cypress trees. There’s a rich array of wildlife, including hawks, kestrels, foxes and hedgehogs. It couldn’t feel farther from one of the world’s biggest cities. There’s a number of different walking trails throughout the reserve, some more difficult (and steep) than others. Take a taxi there from the historical centre—it’s a seven minute drive away.

Case Romane del Celio in Rome Arrow

Underground beneath the Basilica Santi Giovanni e Paolo, this heritage museum shows how Roman daily life has changed over the years. There are 20 rooms showing ancient Roman homes, shops and shrines. It’s cheap to get into and relatively quiet, even on weekends. This is one of the best preserved examples of ancient Roman domestic architecture. The houses date back to the second and third centuries AD. They were part of a larger residential complex, possibly belonging to a single aristocratic Roman family. One of the most remarkable features is the underground area known as the hypogeum —a subterranean complex of chambers and passageways. Visitors can explore several interconnected rooms, including reception areas (atria), living quarters (cubicula), kitchens, and courtyards. The houses are decorated with colorful frescoes, intricate mosaics, and marble floors, showcasing the opulence and artistic sophistication of the Roman elite.

Sant'Ivo alla Sapienza Arrow

Most artists and architects working in the characteristically ornate and emotional Baroque style leaned heavily on color and materials to create strong visual impressions. Not Borromini, in this magnificent church originally designed for the Università di Roma. Using simply molded stucco forms and daylight, the maestro created an interior space that's at once intimate and infinite, simple and complex. If you've seen Bernini's interior design at St. Peter's Basilica, this is a great place to see how his rival achieves absolute architectural perfection without using scale and color as a crutch. There's no guide. Walk in, take a seat, and take it in.

Caitlin Morton

CNT Editors

Jessica Puckett

Galleria Doria Pamphilj Arrow

This museum houses Rome's largest private collection, a trove assembled by the Doria, Pamphilj, Landi, and Aldobrandini families and brought together through marriage. It’s set in a noble palace still owned by the Doria Pamphilj family and the ornate halls provide a grand setting for such an overwhelming amount of art. The collection is acclaimed among 16th and 17th-century art aficionados but is off the average visitor’s radar even though it's located just off Piazza Venezia and close to the Forum.

Villa Doria Pamphilj Arrow

Rome's largest public park is divided into manicured gardens, stretches of forest, pine groves, and bits of wild vegetation. There are wide open fields, as well as intimate nooks for romantic picnics. It's a perfect destination for runners or cyclists who want to get in a few miles without the nuisances of car traffic and smog. Whether you visit for a stroll, a meal, or a workout, be sure to have a map. The place is huge and some exits spit you out into residential neighborhoods.

Colosseum Arrow

If you know the background of the building, a visit to the Colosseum will be truly amazing and totally live up to the hype. The place was used for wild beast hunts, public executions, and gladiator fights for several hundred years, then became a condo of sorts as medieval Romans made their homes in the hulking ruins. Spend a little time on the second story exhibition area, check out the artists' renderings of the building's ancient and medieval incarnations, and you'll be anxious to learn more.

Ancient Pharmacy of Santa Maria della Scala Arrow

Entering this ancient apothecary, the oldest in Europe, feels a little like stepping back in time. You enter through the ground floor of the building, which is now a functioning, modern pharmacy, before heading upstairs to the ancient iteration. Visitors are welcomed by a friar, who talks you through the various herbs, potions, unguents, balms, and oils that they used to heal the ancient Romans. He knows his stuff. Ask him to show you some of the original wooden furniture from the 18th century, and the instruments they used for weighing ingredients and making the medicines. Look out for the teriaca, a potion created and used by Romans as an antidote—ingredients include viper meat.

MAXXI Rome Arrow

MAXXI is the kind of place you go to spend half a day, with no plans other than to take the entire place in. Designed by Zaha Hadid, this is Rome’s museum for all things contemporary, with exhibitions spanning modern fashion, cinema, art, and architecture. Heck, it’s worth visiting just to check out the building, a piece of art in itself. The labyrinthine space at MAXXI is astounding. It gets busy, but there's so much space that you wouldn't notice. Big, wide halls give way to rooms of different themes and sizes, resulting in five floors of non-stop, incredible artwork. Spaces range from performing arts to galleries with modern artworks to open cinemas. For some, this might feel a little incoherent, but it helps if you take it in as a whole rather than different spaces.

Capitoline Museums Arrow

Home to one of the finest collections of ancient sculpture in Rome (and therefore the world), the Capitoline Museums are—weirdly—rarely crowded. They attract school groups, local history and art buffs, and travelers, all of whom tend to meander through the museums' various buildings, two of which were designed by none other than Michelangelo. Thanks to its collection and its proximity to Rome's main archeological attractions, it's a logical place to stop after visiting the Roman Forum and Colosseum.

Palatine Hill Arrow

The Palatine Hill is a big, sprawling open-air museum. There are emperors' palaces, manicured gardens, medieval churches, and a terrace overlooking the Forum and beyond. The admission fee is about $18 and covers the Roman Forum and Colosseum, too, making it a pretty great deal. Although the Palatine has monuments from every major era in Rome's history, the real draw is a first-century palace built by Domitian, a mad emperor with a very serious architecture addiction.

Jubilee Church Arrow

Chiesa di Dio Padre Misericordioso, also known as the Jubilee Church, was designed by American architect Richard Meier as part of the Vatican's grand church-building and city revival program leading up to the Millennium Jubilee, a Catholic pilgrimage year held in 2000. The church is free, though getting there may cost you. It's about six miles from central Rome, so a taxi could easily cost more than €25 ($28). Alternatively, you can reach the church via public transport for €3 ($4) round trip.

San Zeno Chapel at Santa Prassede Arrow

The San Zeno Chapel is a small chapel and major pilgrimage destination inside the church of Santa Prassede (aka Saint Praxedes). The church, chapel, and mosaics all backdate to the 9th century when Pope Paschal I built the chapel and its Byzantine mosaics for his mother. Because the chapel houses the remains of a pillar believed by many Catholics to be from the Flagellation of Christ, it draws some pilgrims. Other visitors are travelers specifically there to see the Byzantine mosaics.

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A sprawling palatial pavilion built by emperor Nero in the 1st century that will blow you away with the design taste and command of concrete and space on display. You can only visit on weekends—the site's under restoration during the week—but admission includes a guided tour. Ours was led by an archeologist who not only worked on the site but was totally obsessed with it; the passion made for a terrific tour. Try your luck.

Mercato di Campagna Amica del Circo Massimo Arrow

Despite being Rome's largest farmers market, the Mercato di Campagna Amica remains down to earth and not at all corporate—as demonstrated by the fact it's only open on weekends. The stalls adhere to the "0 km" philosophy, shorthand for products made or grown within 100 kilometers from the point of sale; and vendors come mostly from Lazio, Rome's home region. It's a crash course in the local leafy greens, amusing in their number and variety, especially to visitors from northern climates. Both the olives and the olive oil you'll find here are worth a splurge, but one of the market's best uses is as a source of super-fresh (and super-cheap) picnic material. Grab some bread, a little fresh pecorino, a few slices of prosciutto, some fruit, and make yourself a lunch.

Villa Farnesina Arrow

The Villa was the private residence of Agostino Chigi, one of the Renaissance's richest men; he liked to showcase his wealth by hiring artists to paint elaborate frescoes on the walls and ceilings in his palace. That makes this a great place for Renaissance fans who want to take their time and see the art in-situ without the crowds. Thanks to Raphael's emphasis on mythological themes, it's also a great place for kids who know about the Roman gods—or want to!

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This is a leisurely stroll beginning in Trastevere and winding up via Garibaldi to the top of Janiculum Hill. The mood changes from urban at the beginning to monumental at the end; it's a bit of work, but rewards those willing to do it with a unique perspective on Roman history and some of the best views of the city. Best to do the walk during the day, or early in the morning if it's summer. If you're on a tight schedule, don't want to brave the hill in the heat, or just want to get a view, skip the hike and take a taxi directly to Piazzale Garibaldi.

Vicus Caprarius Arrow

This museum takes you beneath the Trevi district, through an intricate maze of ancient vestiges to the archaeological ruins of Vicus Caprarius (which roughly translates to “City of Water”), an old Roman apartment complex dating back to the first-century A.D.. You get to see first-hand how the rich Romans lived, using their very own aqueduct–the same one that feeds the Trevi fountain–for their running water. The entrance is unassuming, and if you hadn’t been told it was there it would be easy to walk right past. There’s a fairly comprehensive website but all bookings are made (and confirmed) via a Whatsapp chat. Skip the guided tour—there were 8 of us in the tour group, but we shared the same (small) space with  self-guided individuals, many of whom had just showed up and booked on the day. If you're keen on a post-museum cocktail, head upstairs to Harry's Bar.

Santa Maria del Popolo Arrow

Santa Maria del Popolo is a Renaissance church at the edge of Piazza del Popolo and just within Rome's 3rd-century walls. It was decorated during Rome's most recent artistic peak, the 15th to 17th centuries, and is packed with masterpieces. The church is free, though some coins will come in handy for turning lights on in chapels. The place mostly draws visitors on the Caravaggio trail. Two canvases painted by that controversial and innovative artist hang in the chapel next to the main altar.

Le Domus Romane di Palazzo Valentini Arrow

The Domus Romane are ancient Roman villas and other structures that were abandoned in antiquity, filled in with debris, and inadvertently used as foundations for Palazzo Valentini, a Renaissance palace turned government office building. They are now underground, obscured by buildings and pavement just beside Piazza Venezia. Booking is required and must be done online.

Santa Maria in Trastevere Arrow

There are hundreds of churches in Rome, but Santa Maria in Trastevere is one of the most breathtaking. Not only are the mosaics and gilded ceiling spectacular, the very skeletal structure of the church is mind-boggling. The columns that support the nave and separate the aisles are single, solid pieces of granite that were lugged across the river in the 12th century after being plundered from the 3rd-century Baths of Caracalla. The church will help you develop a taste for medieval Rome, a period often outshined by the Renaissance and Baroque eras.

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The Palazzo Massimo's building itself was built by Jesuits in the late 19th century and was only turned into a state-owned museum in 1980. It's next to Stazione Termini, Rome's busiest station, yet few travelers make the trip to see the museum's masterpiece-packed halls. The collection is a mix of Classical sculpture, Imperial frescoes, and Hellenistic baroque-style statuary. After the Vatican Museums and Capitoline Museums, the Palazzo Massimo is a must for ancient art lovers.

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This market in one of Rome's most bustling central neighborhoods has all the usual suspects: bread bakeries, produce stalls, fishmongers, butchers, and delis. You'll also find seasonal vegetables like artichokes or zucchini, cuts typical of the local cuisine like tripe and liver, and little chewy pizzas common to Roman bakeries. If you're looking for lunch (or to stock a picnic), hunt down takeaway stalls like the stellar Mordi e Vai, which serves Roman sandwiches near the Via B. Franklin exit. The stalls on the eastern side of the market mainly sell clothes, shoes, and housewares. There's even a hair salon, in case you're needing a touchup.

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Pigneto is popular with Italian college students and twenty- and thirty-somethings who frequent the bars on the "Isola," a pedestrianized stretch of Via del Pigneto, the neighborhood's central artery. It's also a destination for Pasolini fans who visit the streets that were the backdrop for his Neorealist films. It's an acquired taste and may feel too rough-around-the-edges for some, but anyone interested in urbanism and street art, or just thirsty to explore neighborhood's outside of Rome's historic center, will enjoy it.

Baths of Caracalla Arrow

The Baths of Caracalla were a massive public bathing complex built in the third century. Throughout the year, the site is open during the day for visitors to stroll through ruins that were so magnificent they inspired the Main Concourse at Grand Central Terminal. Each summer, the city of Rome's Opera company performs at the Baths, using the towering brick ruins as a backdrop. The contrast of the ancient buildings, celebrated operas, and modern acoustics and lighting is stunning.

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This working-class neighborhood near Termini station first gained international prominence when Soho House opened their Rome outpost a few years back. Since then, it’s evolved from a rough-around-the-edges student hangout into a decidedly bohemian district, with street art, street food, lively bars, and cool fashion boutiques. To get the most out of the neighborhood, visit in the late afternoon, when fashion boutiques like L’Anatra all’Arancia and La Maison de la Mode will still be open. Refuel with a coffee at the diminutive Giufà Libreria Caffè bookstore-bar, then check out the street art around Via dei Sabelli and Scalo San Lorenzo. Stop by Blackmarket San Lorenzo for a pre-dinner cocktail and vegetarian small plates, or pop into Sanlollo for pizzas, bruschetta, and salted cod. Gelato San Lorenzo does some of the best ice cream in town, all of it organic. Still, don't bring your parents or your fussiest friends here; rather, come with someone who’s up for a cheap-ish night out in a gritty but very cool neighborhood.

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The 23 best things to do in Rome

Ready to take on the Eternal City? Here’s our guide to Rome’s best museums, food and architecture

There’s no place like Rome . This is a city where winding streets lead to beautiful temples, pasta gets brought out by the bucketload, and the people-watching opportunities never end. It’s one of the most famous cities in the world for a reason, but you can’t fully understand its magic until you’ve been there in person. 

Rome is also much, much bigger than you can imagine, so you’re going to want to have a plan in place. Here you’ll find archeological treasures, iconic art collections and enough culture to make you want to come back again and again.  But don’t worry – there’s plenty of time to digest your lunchtime pasta, and to sip on aperitifs in the warm sunshine.  Whether it’s your first or your 20th time visiting, here are the very best things to do in Rome, according to a local. 

RECOMMENDED: 🏛️ Unmissable  attractions in Rome 🍝 The best  restaurants in Rome 🛍️ Where to go  shopping in Rome 🏘️ The best  Airbnbs in Rome 🏨 The best  hotels in Rome

This guide was recently updated by Rome-based writer   Livia Hengel . At Time Out, all of our  travel guides  are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our  editorial guidelines .  This guide includes affiliate links, which have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, see our  affiliate guidelines . 

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Best things to do in Rome

1.  Colosseum

• Attractions
• Historic buildings and sites

Of course, if you’re in Rome, you have to see the Colosseum. This magnificent building is Rome’s shining glory (you know, the kind of stuff you see on postcards), and it’s even better in person than you can imagine. Built between 72-80 AD, it is the largest amphitheatre in the world and could hold up to 80,000 people. Local Romans used to come to see violent gladiator battles or animal hunts, but now it’s a lot more peaceful. We recommend buying tickets in advance, as the queues here can be crazy. But it is one hundred percent worth it once you get to the 5th level for that 360-degree view over the theatre.

2.  Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel

• Art and design

Founded by Pope Julius II in the 16th century, the Vatican Museums house one of the largest and most important art collections in the world and is set across 54 galleries, courtyards and hallways. You’ll find thousands of ancient sculptures, works by Raphael and, of course, Michelangelo’s frescoes in the Sistine Chapel. If you have time and plan well in advance, book tickets to descend into the Vatican Necropolis, located beneath St. Peter’s Basilica, and the Vatican Gardens filled with fountains, flora and a replica of the Grotto devoted to Our Lady of Lourdes.

3.  Pantheon

Built in 125 AD by Emperor Hadrian, the Pantheon is one of the best preserved buildings from ancient times. Its dome, measuring 142 feet in diameter, is the largest in the whole world. Meanwhile the Pantheon's oculus, the central opening at the top of the dome, not only provides a unique source of natural light but also serves as a symbolic connection between the temple and the heavens, enhancing the spiritual and architectural significance of this ancient marvel. This is a must-see in Rome, and if you’re heading to the city during Pentecost weekend, you’re in for a treat – during Sunday Mass, tons of rose petals get dropped from the oculus to mark the occasion, and the sight is really something.

4.  Castel Sant’Angelo

Castel Sant’Angelo, ‘The Castle of Angels,’ is an eye-catching cylindrical fortification built on the banks of the Tiber River by Roman Emperor Hadrian in the second century AD. Originally commissioned as a mausoleum for Hadrian and his family, it was later used as a fortress and castle by the popes. It even includes a secret escape passageway that links the structure to the Vatican City. Today, it is a museum with frescoed rooms, a collection of medieval weaponry and sweeping views of the city of Rome and nearby St Peter’s Basilica. There’s a little cafe inside where you can enjoy snacks or a drink with a view of the Vatican.

5.  The Trevi Fountain

• Monuments and memorials

Rome is known as the city of fountains – there are over 2,000 throughout the city, both big and small – but none is grander than the Trevi Fountain. Commissioned by Pope Clement XII in the 18th century, this majestic work of Baroque art was carved out of Carrara marble and took 30 years to complete. It was built on the site of an ancient aqueduct which dates back to 19 BC and features Oceanus, the god of the sea, sitting triumphantly atop a chariot pulled by seahorses at the center. On either side are Tritons, mythical sea creatures that resemble mermen, blowing into conch shells. According to local legend, if you throw a coin over your shoulder into the Trevi Fountain, you'll return to Rome again in your lifetime. Each year, millions of coins are tossed into the fountain: they're regularly collected and donated to charitable causes. 

6.  Borghese Gallery and Museum

Commissioned by Cardinal Scipione Borghese in the 16th century to house his impressive art collection, Galleria Borghese remains one of the premier museums in Rome. An avid art collector, the Cardinal was one of Gian Lorenzo Bernini's early patrons and a huge fan of Caravaggio’s works, so expect to find exceptional creations inside. Some of the museum's highlights include  Apollo and Daphne  by Bernini,  Paolina Bonaparte  by Canova and  Boy with a Basket of Fruit  by Caravaggio. The “pleasure palace” was originally built as a suburban villa and it remains immersed in Villa Borghese’s extensive gardens, so be sure to take a stroll around the park after your visit.

7.  Gianicolo

Fondly referred to as the city of Seven Hills, Rome is known for its scenic vantage points and numerous terraces that give way to stunning views of the city skyline. Located above the Trastevere neighbourhood, Gianicolo isn’t technically one of the fabled hills, but it  is  worth the trek because it’s the highest point in Rome and offers an expansive vista over the Eternal City. The elegant Fontana dell’Acqua Paola, a fountain featured in the opening scene of  La Grande Bellezza , is located just nearby, and its majesty will surely take your breath away.

8.  Capitoline Museums

The Capitoline Museums are set across three buildings in Piazza del Campidoglio, a trapezoidal piazza designed by Michelangelo in the 16th century. Considered the first public museums in the world, they are home to Renaissance marble statues and Roman bronzes such as the Equestrian statue of Marcus Aurelius and the Capitoline Wolf, which symbolizes the founding of Rome. The museum also provides an excellent view of the Roman Forum from the Galleria Lapidaria, an underground tunnel that connects the two main buildings. Plan to spend a few hours exploring the collection and don’t miss a visit to the secret garden in Piazzale Caffarelli, tucked just behind the piazza.

9.  Domus Aurea

Emperor Nero’s extravagant Domus Aurea (Golden House) was considered one of the most impressive residences of its time and offers a unique glimpse into subterranean Rome. Built between 64-68 AD as a grand place of entertainment near the Colosseum, it spanned across many of Rome’s ancient hills before it was destroyed by the great fire of Rome in 64 AD. Visitors can join guided tour s every Friday, Saturday and Sunday, and a virtual reality tour is also offered that helps bring the villa’s former glory to life.

10.  Testaccio Market

• Markets and fairs

Rome’s culinary traditions are rooted in the Testaccio neighbourhood, making it an essential stop for gourmands and intrepid diners. The area once housed the largest slaughterhouse in Europe, and employees were usually paid in leftover animal parts (affectionately referred to as the “quinto quarto,” or fifth quarter). One of the best places to sample Rome’s diverse cuisine and excellent street food is at the Testaccio Market, a luminous and contemporary building filled with tantalizing stands that serve everything from artichoke sandwiches and tripe stews to freshly-cooked pasta and craft beers.

11.  Centrale Montemartini

Once a state-of-the-art power station, the early 20th-century Centrale Montemartini was chosen in the late 1990s to house part of the collection of the Capitoline Museums. Ancient statues are juxtaposed with vintage machinery in the industrial setting; fauns and Minervas, Bacchus revellers and Apollos are all surprisingly at home against the thermoelectric equipment. Highlights include incredibly detailed mosaics depicting marine themes, a spectacular early fourth-century mosaic depicting a hunting scene and the giant head and foot of a goddess found at Largo Argentina.

12.  Rome Opera House

Built at the end of the 19th century, the Teatro dell'Opera is a neo-classical opera house hosting around 200 performances each year, from opera and ballet to contemporary dance. The opera house has collaborated with several celebrity directors and fashion houses, including Sofia Coppola, Valentino and Dior, to create innovative shows. In the summer months, performances are held al fresco in the evocative Terme di Caracalla (Baths of Caracalla), an enormous archaeological complex built between 213-216 AD that was home to an open-air pool, saunas, a library, shops and more.

13.  National Museums of Rome

Although Rome’s four national museums have been overlooked for years, they are some of the most exciting cultural programming in the Eternal City at the moment, featuring contemporary works, interactive videos and more alongside ancient sculptures. The museums contain important archaeological relics discovered in Rome and are spread across four locations: Palazzo Massimo alle Terme, Palazzo Altemps, the Baths of Diocletian and Crypta Balbi.  A €14 combination ticket allows entry into all four sights over one week.

14.  Mercato Campagna Amica

Located near Circo Massimo, an ancient chariot racing stadium, Mercato Campagna Amica is heaven for foodies and a favorite with the locals. Open from 8am to 8pm on Saturday and Sunday, it brings together local farmers who sell quality, seasonal products — from fruits and vegetables to cheese, baked goods and specialty items. Created in 2008 by the Italian Farmers Confederation (CIA), the Mercato Campagna Amica is more than a farmer’s market: it’s a movement towards a sustainable and locally sourced food system. You can also come by for pop-up events, like cooking demonstrations, tastings, and seminars about composting, organic farming, and biodiversity.

15.  Stadio Olimpico

• Sport events

Rome has two first-class football clubs, AS Roma and SS Lazio. Both play in the Stadio Olimpico, incidentally the largest sports facility in Rome. While only the most courageous visitors may want to attend a Roma-Lazio game (the rambunctious “derby”), a trip to the stadium promises to be a spectacle of flares and chanting and a touch of atmospheric drama a million miles away from the elegant  centro storico . If you prefer a more low-key experience, you can also catch a rugby game here during the Six Nations Championship tournament held in the late winter months.

16.  Ara Pacis

Although ancient architecture reigns supreme, Rome is increasingly recognized for its newer structures that have created a vivid juxtaposition between the old and the new. One of the most spectacular examples is the Museo dell’Ara Pacis designed by American architect Richard Meier. The 2,000-year-old altar dedicated to Pax, the goddess of peace, has been enclosed in a monumental glass structure, creating a unique display in the city centre. The museum also hosts rotating art exhibitions and a virtual reality tour that includes 3D binoculars.

17.  Complesso del Vittoriano

It is worth climbing to the top of the “wedding cake” not only to appreciate the enormity of the structure but also to see the Art Nouveau mosaics in the colonnade and, most importantly, to enjoy the view from the only place where you can see the whole city centre without the panorama being interrupted by the Vittoriano itself. Even more impressive is the view from the very top level of the monument, reached by a glass elevator accessed from behind the structure, by the side of the Aracoeli church. And while it has had a mixed reception from tourists and locals alike, it is one of Rome's must-sees (honestly, it will be hard for you to miss it).

18.  Galleria Colonna

Galleria Colonna is one of the oldest and largest private palaces in Rome and one of the city’s best-kept secrets. Originally built as a fortress for the Colonna family, it was turned into a Baroque residence over time and now hosts a world-class art collection with masterpieces by Carracci, Tintoretto and Guercino. Step inside to discover the Great Hall, an enormous mirrored gallery lined with statues, paintings and chandeliers on-par with the beauty of Versailles. Galleria Colonna is open every Saturday. Be sure to visit Princess Isabelle’s apartment and the secret garden.

19.  Appia Antica

Step back in time, literally, as you walk (or bike) along one of the oldest roads in the Roman empire: the Appia Antica. This ancient road connected Rome to Brindisi and remains one of the most picturesque areas in the city. The surrounding park is also full of cultural heritage sites, including catacombs and mausoleums containing notable figures such as popes, martyrs, and nobility. Don’t miss exploring the catacombs of St. Callixtus, the catacombs of Domitilla and the catacombs of Saint Sebastian.

20.  Villa Medici

Villa Medici, home to the French Academy in Rome, supports research and creativity in the arts and humanities. The building was built in the sixteenth century by Cardinal Ferdinando de' Medici, who later became Grand Duke of Tuscany. It enjoys a privileged position above the Spanish Steps and is known for its vast, manicured gardens and views of the city skyline. Today, the academy offers residencies and fellowships to scholars, and hosts events and exhibitions throughout the year. Visitors can tour the gardens and some of the historic rooms in the villa, including the Grand Salon and the Chapel of Saint John the Baptist.

21.  Orto Botanico

• Parks and gardens

Located on the slopes of Gianicolo in the Trastevere neighborhood, the Botanical Garden of Rome is a verdant oasis nature lovers won't want to miss. It was established in 1883 in the gardens of Villa Corsini, an elegant 17th century villa commissioned by the Corsini family, one of the oldest noble families in Florence. The garden houses over 7,000 species of plants from around the world across 12 hectares. Some of the highlights are a vast bamboo collection, numerous Gymnosperms such as sequoias, cypresses and pines, and over 400 species of orchids. A small vineyard has recently been planted in the Botanical Garden with 155 autochthonous varietals from throughout Italy. 

22.  Cimitero Acattolico

This verdant oasis of calm tucked just behind Rome’s towering ancient pyramid has served as the city’s final resting place for non-Catholic foreigners since 1784. Unofficially known as the Protestant Cemetery, this charmingly old-world corner also hosts Buddhists, Russian Orthodox Christians and atheists: a sign points to the grave of Antonio Gramsci, founder of the Italian Communist Party. The larger, newer section is much more crowded and slopes up to the crenellations of the Aurelian Wall. If visiting, also be sure to look out for notable graves, such as those for literary icons John Keats and Percy Bysshe Shelley and Russian artist Karl Bryullov.

More great things to do in Rome

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101 Fantastic Things To Do In Rome

There are so many things to do in Rome that a lifetime would barely be enough to explore it all. We drew the most complete and detailed Rome bucket list you can find online including several sections to help you navigate and choose what type of trip you want to plan.

So we have the things to do for first-time visitors, what to see in Rome if it’s not your first trip, secret spots to discover, the best churches often lesser-known and also what to do in Rome if you are a food lover.

This is meant to be an exhaustive list of Rome’s highlights that we continually update, but if you are spending only three days in Rome , you will need to narrow down your options depending on the area you want to visit, your preferences, whether you like art, history or go on a foodie jaunt.

Of course, if you can stay longer, all the better. We have included so many places to visit that even if you have a week in Rome , you will never get bored and run out of things to do. Our list includes something for everybody, whether it’s your first trip to Rome, or second, or your fifth. Enjoy the ride and start planning!

Table of Contents

Unmissable things to do in Rome for first-time visitors

Impossible not to include it in your Italy itinerary , especially if it’s your first time in the country, Rome has something for everyone. Whether you are into ancient history, Renaissance aesthetics, contemporary art, or even industrial archaeology, rest assured that in Rome, you will have a great time.

See the Colosseum, one of the first places to visit in Rome

An iconic symbol of the city, no first trip to Rome is complete without a stop at the Colosseum . Flavium Amphitheatre was one of the main places where Romans spent their leisure time. Shows where gladiators fought with other gladiators or wild animals were some of the favorites in ancient Rome.

Today you can visit the Colosseum by yourself or, if you want to access also the arena and the dungeons, you can do so only by booking a private tour .

Walk around the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill, one of the must-see places in Rome

With the same ticket to the Colosseum valid for two days, you can also access the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill. This is the heart of the ancient city of Rome. You will see where public life took place, important temples, markets, emperors’ villas, and the altar where Julius Ceasar was cremated.

The Forum is very big and there are many things to see, so if you want to visit the most important places, book a tour to be sure you don’t skip any.

Discover the Domus Aurea

The urban villa was built by Emperor Nero after the fire that devastated Rome in 64 AD and was destroyed after Nero’s death to give back the land to the Roman people. After years of digging and renovation work, today we can visit the surviving areas, which reveal the opulence and luxury Nero lived with.

With gardens, pavilions for feasts and relaxation, woods, vineyards, and a little lake, the villa occupied a huge part of today’s city center, including the Palatine Hill, part of the Esquilino Hill, and where now is the Colosseum.

Walk along the Imperial Fora

Started by Julius Caesar in 46 BC, it was the center of political life. It was built in about 150 years and shows the fora of several emperors including Augustus and Trajan, as well as several pagan Roman temples.

This is one of those places where you will almost certainly end up walking past even if you are staying for only one day in Rome as it’s the long road that goes from Piazza Venezia to the Colosseum.

Check out the best hotels near the Colosseum to start bright and early in the morning!

The Baths of Caracalla among the best things to see in Rome

The Caracalla Baths are one of the most beautiful tourist attractions in Rome. A large complex of ancient thermal baths, you can see the mosaic floor, the structure where the different areas were organized as well as the original statues and decorations. In summer, the Baths of Caracalla are used for opera shows.

Visit the Circus Maximus

With a size of 600 mt in length and 140 mt wide, the Circus Maximus was the largest building devoted to public shows. Here they used to run competitions with the biga chariots and now it’s an archaeological area possible to visit. It’s also often used for concerts (always for New Year’s Eve) and cultural events like Rome’s birthday on April 21st. Check out the official website for more info.

St. Peter’s Basilica one of the most popular Rome tourist attractions

Built on the site of Caligula’s Circus, the basilica we see today is not the original, which was much bigger. Later expanded by Nero, the ancient Roman circus is where Saint Peter was martyred. Today you can see his tomb by booking your entrance to the necropolis underneath the church.

Packed with amazing artwork, some of the most important things to see inside St. Peter’s Basilica are Michelangelo’s statue La Pietà, the dome (cupola) and the Baroque-style St. Peter’s Baldachin.

Visit the Vatican Museums

Among the unmissable things to see in Rome are the Vatican Museums. A large gallery displaying some seven centuries of artwork donated by world leaders or commissioned by the popes, some of the most important parts are the Sistine Chapel, Raphael’s Rooms, the Gallery of the Tapestries, of the Maps, and of the Candelabra.

TIP: Want to make the most out of your visit and avoid the crowds? Check out some of the best tours to the Vatican Museums: Pristine Sistine Early Entrance and Night Tour with Sistine Chapel .

Explore more of the Vatican City

To make your first trip to Rome complete, do devote at least one day to the Vatican City . Here there are many things to see, and if you want to explore it all, one day is not enough. However, you will still need to start somewhere. If you have more time than just visiting St. Peter’s Square and Basilica and the Vatican Museums, there are so many more places to see in the Vatican . To delve deeper, you can explore the Vatican Gardens and the Roman cemetery below the Basilica .

TIP: To skip the lines in the Vatican’s attractions such as St. Peter’s Basilica and the Vatican Museums, the only way is to book a private Vatican tour .

Climb the Spanish Steps, one of the most famous Rome attractions

Taken as a bench to sit, eat and drink by many, the Spanish Steps is actually an important historical Roman landmark and one of the top Rome attractions.

Built between 1723 and 1726 from a project by Roman architect Francesco De Sanctis, they lead to the Trinità dei Monti church on top of the stairs. While on the bottom, Piazza di Spagna, you can see the beautiful Barcaccia fountain by Pietro Bernini (Gian Lorenzo’s father), and a huge array of exclusive and expensive boutique stores.

Visit the Pantheon, one of the first places to visit in Rome

Temple devoted to all gods, the Pantheon is a true masterpiece of ancient architecture impossible not to include in your Rome bucket list.

Founded by Marco Vipsanio Agrippa in 27 BC, it was rebuilt between 120 and 124 AD during the rule of Emperor Augustus after a fire damaged the original construction. Its famous cupola, with a hole in the middle to allow the light in, is still now one of the biggest in the world.

Piazza Navona, one of the top Rome tourist attractions

One of the most famous squares and Rome highlights, Piazza Navona has the elliptical shape of the Domitian Stadium on top of which it was built. In the middle is one of the most beautiful fountains in Rome, the Four Rivers Fountain by architect Gian Lorenzo Bernini, standing in front of Sant’Agnese in Agone church by Francesco Borromini.

Campo de’ Fiori, one of the main things to do in Rome

Home to a daily morning market, Piazza Campo de’ Fiori is one of the most famous Rome tourist attractions popular day and night. In the middle of the square is the tall statue of Giordano Bruno, the Dominican friar burnt at the stake early 17th century. All around the piazza are bars, restaurants, bakeries, and shops.

Largo Argentina

This is where Julius Ceasar was killed and now there is one of Rome’s largest and most famous cat colonies. Visit this ancient sacred area and explore one of the most underestimated tourist attractions in Rome. This is such as busy and central hub that whether you are staying 2 days in Rome or one week , chances are you are going to visit or even only walk across Largo Argentina more than once.

Discover the Hadrian Mausoleum

Built as the funerary mausoleum of emperor Hadrian, Castel Sant’Angelo has served several purposes throughout the centuries. From residence to papal stronghold to prison, it’s one of those Rome attractions that are impossible to miss.

Explore the Jewish Quarter

A stone’s throw from Largo Argentina is the Jewish Quarter. While you will probably end up here for its many great restaurants, it’s also worth wandering around its alleys, seeing the Turtle Fountain and the archaeological site of the Portico di Ottavia , a porch built under the rule of Augustus and devoted to his sister Ottavia.

Definitely one of the top things to do in Rome, whether it’s summer or winter, is to enjoy an artisan gelato. Romans have become very demanding when it comes to gelato, and my suggestion is to prefer all-natural, authentic artisan gelaterias. How to tell them apart from fake, low-quality products? Read everything in my complete guide to the best gelato in Rome .

Wander around Trastevere, one of the places to see in Rome for food and trendy nightlife

One of the most famous Rome neighborhoods among tourists, gentrified Trastevere was once the place of the working class. Narrow alleys, quaint shops and restaurants (some traditional many touristy), lovely piazzas. Here, don’t miss Santa Maria in Trastevere Basilica, Santa Cecilia Basilica and Villa Farnesina.

Santa Maria in Trastevere Basilica

Possibly the most famous basilica in the Trastevere neighborhood, Santa Maria in Trastevere is thought to be the oldest official Catholic church in Rome, and for sure the first one officially devoted to the Holy Mary. On its outside facade, you can admire beautiful mosaics.

Santa Cecilia in Trastevere Basilica

This is not just a church. Like many other places to see in Rome, the undergrounds of Santa Cecilia in Trastevere Basilica hide another world. Once you visit the modern church, go down to see the gorgeous crypt and down again to visit an ancient Roman domus and insula.

Visit the Tiber Island, what to do in Rome for history and food

An ancient man-made island in the middle of the Tiber river in Rome city center, the ship-shaped Isola Tiberina is one of the top places to visit in Rome for first-timers. You can get to the Tiber island on foot from either Trastevere or the Jewish Ghetto. Today is home to the San Bartolomeo church, the 16th-century hospital Fatebenefratelli and several bars and restaurants. In summer, it becomes the island of the cinema, a popular hangout to watch movies outdoors.

Walk across Rome’s oldest bridge

What to do in Rome if, like me, stepping over ancient history excites you. Ponte Fabricio bridge connects the Jewish Ghetto right from in front of Rome’s synagogue to the Tiber island. Built in 62 BC by street keeper Lucius Fabricius, it’s Rome’s oldest operative bridge that kept its original structure.

Explore Rome’s history at the Capitoline Museums

This is Rome’s main museum, where you will discover the history of the city, how it was founded, both myth and reality. Displaying a rich collection of artwork from ancient Roman times, there is also a fascinating section on Etruscan art and daily life.

Throw a coin in the Trevi Fountain

Hands-off the most impressive among Rome’s many fountains, this Baroque masterpiece stands in all its huge glory and has been the setting of movies, videos, countless pictures and also polemics when people just can’t resist and take a dip in its waters. Do you want to be sure to come back to Rome? Throw a coin backward in the Trevi Fountain and you will.

Take a picture of Piazza Venezia and Vittoriano Complex

The Vittoriano Complex is the national monument in Piazza Venezia named after the first king of unified Italy, Vittorio Emanuele II. It hosts the permanent exhibition devoted to the Italian Risorgimento , a term indicating the series of wars, battles, intrigues, and clashes that ended with the unification of the country under one rule, Piedmont’s Savoia royal dynasty.

Also called “Homeland Altar”, it was built between 1885 and 1911 and since 1923 it hosts the body of the “Unknown Soldier”. Today they often organize several exhibitions on different topics, be it social, cultural, or historic.

Test yourself at the Mouth of Truth

This is a big sculpture with a man’s face located in the courtyard of Santa Maria in Cosmedin church. Probably an ancient manhole, it became one of the top things to do in Rome because of the movie Roman Holiday starring Audrey Hepburn and Gregory Peck and the legend according to which the mouth would bite the hand of those who don’t speak the truth.

Saint John Lateran Basilica

The most important among the papal basilicas, Saint John in Lateran is one of the top places to see in Rome. The first official Catholic, it’s Rome’s cathedral and where the pope exerts his duties as the city’s bishop. Located in the Caelian Hill on the land of the Lateran Roman family, it was confiscated by Nero because of a conspiracy against him. Of stunning beauty and rich in artwork, it’s one of Rome points of interest whether you are religious or not.

Go underground in San Clemente Basilica

One of the best places to visit in Rome to travel through the historical layers of the city. San Clemente Basilica, near the Colosseum, includes a medieval church on modern street level, an early-Christian basilica underneath, and a Mithraic temple and school as well as the Roman mint in the lowest underground level.

Take a peek through the keyhole of Knights of Malta headquarters

This is one of the most famous pictures of Rome. Watching from the keyhole of the Knights of Malta headquarters on the Aventine Hill is one of the fun things to do in Rome. It used to be a hidden gem, but now it’s very popular and you will likely find a bit of a queue. Nevertheless, the view is worth the wait.

Explore the Aventine Hill

Romantic and incredibly rich in history, Aventine Hill is a treasure trove of places to visit in Rome. The early-Christian Santa Sabina Basilica, the old Santa Prisca Basilica with a Mithra temple in its underground, and the orange-scented Parco Savello, better known as the Garden of the Oranges, are all sights that will keep you busy for a good morning or even the whole day.

Marvel at three Caravaggio paintings at San Luigi dei Francesi

This church is located between Piazza Navona and the Pantheon and it’s worth visiting even only for the being home to three of the Caravaggio paintings in Rome : The Calling of St Matthew (on the left wall), The Inspiration of Saint Matthew (above the altar), and The Martyrdom of Saint Matthew (on the right wall).

Apart from Saint Louis of the French church, you can find some of his most famous masterpieces in Palazzo Barberini, Galleria Borghese, Galleria Doria Pamphilj, Sant’Agostino Basilica, and the beautiful Santa Maria del Popolo Basilica.

Enjoy the view from the Janiculum Hill

The Janiculum Hill is a favorite spot for a scenic walk surrounded by nature and art. A perfect place to take a break from the city traffic, here you can visit the Aqua Paola Fountain, San Pietro in Mntorio church and see the monument devoted to Garibaldi, active military leader during the battles that brought the Italian unification.

Palazzo Quirinale, what to visit in Rome to combine art and institutions

In the Palace of the President of the Italian Republic, it’s possible to visit the Quirinale palace only by booking at least five days in advance through the official website . Former papal residence, it’s located in the Quirinale Hill and enshrines a huge wealth of artwork.

Take a stroll in Villa Borghese Park

One of the largest and possibly the most famous among Rome’s urban parks, the gorgeous Villa Borghese was the residence of the powerful Borghese family. A green oasis in the city center, it’s packed with attractions and landmarks to visit such as the Galleria Borghese museum (not free entrance), the Lake Garden, several temples, and the beautiful Orangery area. You can also book a Villa Borghese bike tour to visit more of this huge park.

TIP: Make the most of your visit to the park with an expert tour to the Borghese Gallery to view the masterpieces of artists like Caravaggio, Bernini, Raffaello and Canova.

Just like gelato, enjoying a great pizza is one of the best things to do in Rome. By the slice, by the pie, as street food or comfortably sitting for dinner. Napoli-style or Roman pinsa, if you are looking for pizza in Rome you can find just about everything.

Take a food tour

The best way to explore Roman cuisine, its traditional dishes and try great restaurants, especially if it’s your first time in the city, it’s with a Rome food tour , such as Taste of Testaccio or Twilight Trastevere with Eating Europe. There are so many food tours of Rome that you will be spoilt for choice.

We recently took a fantastic food tour in Testaccio with Devour Tours and we had plenty of tastings from breakfast all the way to lunch stopping at Mercato Testaccio for scrumptious nibbles.

Try the best historic restaurants

If you are into tradition, some of the top historic restaurants to try in Rome are by all means Armando Al Pantheon , close to the Pantheon, and Felice a Testaccio , both famous for their tonnarelli cacio e pepe pasta and other traditional Roman dishes . Some other names? Checchino dal 1887 and Cesare al Casaletto .

Learn to make pasta and pizza

We all love Rome food, but what if we want to make pasta and pizza for our friends and family back home? Easy, take one of the many pasta-making or pizza-making food tours and you will learn the basics for creating your own delicious dishes.

There are many cooking classes in Rome where you can learn how to make some of the most famous Roman and Italian dishes for your friends and family back home. We recently took a fantastic pasta-making class with Devour Tours and learned to make egg-based fettuccine and a hearty amatriciana sauce from scratch.

Go for a coffee Italian-style

So you are in Italy and want a coffee . Keep in mind that if you simply ask for a coffee ( un caffè, per favore! ), they will deliver a short espresso shot, because this is what Italians expect.

If you ask for a “long coffee” ( un caffè lungo ), you will have the same single espresso with a bit more water in it. If you want the huge cup American style you should just order that, an American coffee ( un caffè americano ), so the barista will understand.

A tip? Have on the counter to pay the basic fee. If you grab a table they can charge whatever is their fee.

Go for an aperitif

Aperitif in Rome is a pre-dinner meal, but since the formula is often 10/15 euro for a drink and unlimited buffet starting from 6.30 pm until around 8 pm, you can totally take it for an early dinner.

Go for a street food tour

Pizza by the slice, supplì, cured meat, gelato, or the famous Trapizzino . Try some of Rome’s street food delicacies in its famous central neighborhoods such as the Jewish Ghetto, Campo de’ Fiori, or Prati area. The best way to do that? With a street food tour led by a local expert , of course.

Enjoy Rome city center by segway…

Explore the city center by segway to see as much as you can without getting tired on board of your segway. I’ve been seeing groups of segway always more often in Rome. If you are short on time and still don’t want to miss the main landmarks, this is a great and eco-friendly way to do it. Click here for more info and the price .

…Or by electric bike

Comfortable, eco-friendly, and time-efficient, you can either rent an electric bike to tour around the top things to see in Rome by yourself or book one of the many tours with a local guide.

Some of the best electric bike tours? An e-bike tour around Rome’s tourist attractions or a tour by night around the best places to see in Rome at twilight. If you are into more hidden gems and less touristy areas, book a fascinating bike tour of the ancient Appian Way with its aqueducts and catacombs.

What to do in Rome if you have already seen the most famous landmarks

Discover ancient roman aqueducts.

The ancient aqueducts are possibly the architectural and engineering feat Rome is most famous for . While many have been destroyed by the vandals and during the several sacks of Rome, we can still see and appreciate great vestiges from these important pipelines.

Some of the best places to see the ruins of ancient aqueducts are Parco degli Acquedotti in the Appian Way south of Rome and Porta Maggiore in the Esquilino neighborhood where many of these pipelines meet.

The ruins of the important Aqua Virgo aqueduct that supplies water to the Trevi Fountain can be seen in a few places around the fountain. These include Vicus Caprarius where is the cistern and the undergrounds of La Rinascente shopping mall in Via del Tritone where multimedia installations explain everything about the ruins and the neighborhood.

Villa Farnesina with Raphael’s frescoes

If you are still wondering what to do in Rome, located in Trastevere is Villa Farnesina, a historical villa today seat of the prestigious Accademia Nazionale dei Lincei. A former noble residence, you can visit Villa Farnesina for the wonderful frescoes by great Italian artists, the most famous of which is Raphael. Check out their website for more info.

Go on a foodie adventure

If you have already tried Romand traditional dishes and want something lighter to your digestive system without giving up on taste, go on a foodie adventure. Rome is a fantastic city for foodies, with new restaurants springing up literally every day. Around the city, you will find anything you are looking for, no matter what are your preferences or dietary needs.

Are you vegan? Rome offers a great choice of wonderful vegan and vegetarian restaurants. Do you want to try traditional dishes prepared with a contemporary twist? Do you like the casual atmosphere of a bistro? Rome has something for every palate.

St. Paul Outside the Walls

Located in the Garbatella neighborhood close to Ostiense, the huge St. Paul Outside the Walls Basilica gets fewer visitors than it would deserve. Imposing both outside and inside, here is kept the tomb of Saint Paul. In the underground, you can visit a great Roman archaeological site from the oldest complex dating back to the 5th century.

Centrale Montemartini

This is one of the best things to do in Rome if you have already visited the main museums and are looking for more offbeat attractions. The former main power plant in the city, Centrale Montemartini in the Ostiense neighborhood has been turned into a fascinating museum where the machinery that was used to produce electricity stands side by side with ancient Roman statues, mosaics, sarcophagi, and tools.

Museo Nazionale Romano

After the Musei Capitolini, this is the most important museum and one of the best places to visit in Rome to dig deep into its imperial times, art, and history. Located near Termini Station in the Diocletian Baths, it displays a huge collection of objects, tools, and artwork from Ancient Rome.

Palazzo-Galleria Doria Pamphilj, one of the best places to see in Rome to soak in centuries of art

The gorgeous residence of the Doria Pamphilj noble family is a true treasure trove of artwork, majestic beauty, and history of the Roman aristocracy. Conveniently located in Via del Corso, it’s easy to reach and one of the best things to do in Rome to soak in art, luxury, and history.

Rome’s Rose Garden (Roseto Comunale)

Open only for a couple of months a year in Spring, the Roseto Comunale is located between the Circus Maximus and the foot of the Aventine Hill. When it’s in its full blossoming, with its thousands of rose species it makes for a truly heady and scented walk near Rome city center.

See an optical illusion of St. Peter’s dome

It only happens in Via Piccolomini, off Via Aurelia Antica. As soon as you enter, you will find a giant St. Peter’s dome right in front of you. Keep walking and you will notice that the closer you get, the smaller the dome will become.

Go to the Opera

At Rome’s Teatro dell’Opera you can enjoy operas and ballets from the most famous musicians, such as Mozart, Giuseppe Verdi, Giacomo Puccini, Tchaikovsky, Georges Bizet, and more. Check out their official website for more info on shows and the current season.

Quartiere Coppedè

One of the hidden gems in Rome is the quirky Quartiere Coppedè in the Trieste neighborhood. This Liberty-style quarter was designed by visionary Gino Coppedè and shows clear influences from Roman and Greek mythology, shapes of animals, monsters, and fairy tales. You won’t even feel you are in Rome.

Visit the wonderful Sant’Agnese Fuori le Mura complex

Not far from Quartiere Coppedè, in the elegant Nomentano neighborhood is a beautiful religious and historical landmark from the 4th century that shows that the art and history in Rome are not limited to inside the Aurelian Walls.

The complex of Sant’Agnese Fuori Le Mura (outside the walls) is worth your time out of the historic center because it includes early-Christian catacombs, the ruins of an ancient Basilica, a more modern church, and the Mausoleum of Santa Costanza, the daughter of emperor Constantine the Great, with the ceiling coated with wonderful mosaics.

John Keats’ House

Located in Piazza di Spagna on the right corner of the Spanish Steps, here is where English poet John Keats spent his last months before dying of tuberculosis at the age of 25. Today his house is a museum that displays sculptures, paintings, objects, and manuscripts of important English intellectuals like Keats, Shelley, and Lord Byron.

Protestant Cemetery

A collection of beautiful statues, Rome’s Non-Catholic Cemetery in the Testaccio area hosts the tombs of many notables like Italian politician and philosopher Antonio Gramsci, Italian writer Andrea Camilleri, and English poet John Keats among others.

Explore Rome underground

One of the most fascinating things to do in Rome is to explore the many layers of the city. Underneath modern churches, you can find early-Christian basilicas, ancient Roman houses, and Mithra temples. Underneath Piazza Navona, you can visit the ruins of Domitian Stadium. Thankfully there are many Rome underground guided tours that show you and explain these hidden sites.

Do a catacombs tour, one of the best things to do in Rome for history lovers

One of the best things to do in Rome if you are after a history and cultural holiday is a catacombs tour. There are so many catacombs in different parts of the city that it’s difficult to visit them all. Some of the most famous are the ones in the ancient Appian Way St. Callixtus and St. Domitilla, the ones in Villa Ada park of Priscilla, and the ones of St. Sebastian. Check out Take Walks underground tour to Rome’s catacombs and crypts .

Discover the Trajan’s Markets

Unlike the name might suggest, Trajan’s Markets were probably not markets as we intend them today. This complex of buildings was adjacent to the Roman Forum and especially linked to the Trajan Forum.

It consisted of different areas, some areas where political “forum” activities took place, others where they managed administrative duties. Located in Via Quattro Novembre, today you can visit the archaeological area, the Museum of the Imperial Fora, and always different temporary exhibitions.

Santa Maria della Scala ancient pharmacy

Located in the trendy and very touristy Trastevere neighborhood is a beautiful hidden gem. The ancient pharmacy of Santa Maria della Scala was founded in the 16th century. Here, the Discalced Carmelite friars create potions, oils, and remedies until 1954. Today it’s open to the public but you need to book.

Visit Rome food markets

There are so many food markets in Rome that during your sightseeing you are most likely to stumble on one or more of them. Some of my favorites? Mercato Testaccio, Mercato Trionfale in Via Andrea Doria, the daily market in Campo de’ Fiori, even though quite touristy, and the smaller farmers’ market in Piazza San Cosimato in Trastevere.

Explore Rome’s street art

There are several neighborhoods spruced up and made colorful by local and international street artists. Some of these are Ostiense , Quadraro and Tor Marancia. Also look for Popstairs, a project by Roman street artist Diavù who painted the face of famous Italian and European actresses on stairwells around Rome. Here is something cool and free to do in Rome .

Visit the Botanic Garden

A magical place between Trastevere and Janiculum Hill, the Botanic Garden is managed by La Sapienza university. Hosting plants from all over the world and areas such as the Japanese garden, the tropical greenhouse and the Mediterranean wood, it’s one of the most fascinating things to see in Rome.

Villa Doria Pamphilj

The beautiful summer residence of the Pamphilj family, here you can walk, do jogging, use the gym equipment to do some exercise, rent a bike, take your kids to the playground, and have a nice casual lunch in the local bistro.

They often organize cultural events such as the Oriental Festival, the Yoga Festival and more. This is among the Rome activities your kids will love also because there is the lovely Vivi Bistrot where you can order a picnic and spend a whole day relaxing, jogging, and having fun.

Enter a movie set in Cinecittà

Many movies have been shot in Cinecittà, south Rome, and not only Italian ones. I even visited the set of Martin Scorsese’s Gangs of New York. Obviously, in Cinecittà cinema studios, you will see documents, pictures, objects and memorabilia related mainly to Italian movie production with big names like Fellini, Zeffirelli, Luchino Visconti and actors like Totò and Claudia Cardinale. But also other international names, especially actors who have worked here like Elizabeth Taylor, Richard Burton. Check the official website to know how to visit.

Take a day trip

There are many day trips you can take from Rome . Starting from the medieval towns of Viterbo and Bracciano to the Castelli Romani, in towns like Castel Gandolfo and Rocca di Papa, you can either go by public transport or book a guided tour.

Not to miss if you have the time is a day in Tivoli , home to two UNESCO sites, the Villa of Hadrian and the Villa d’Este.

A little farther but still possible to do in one day is visit Terni and its beautiful Cascate delle Marmore waterfalls.

If you are going around to explore the surroundings, here are some cool road trip games for couples .

Explore Rome’s most international neighborhood

Walking around the Esquilino area next to Termini station you will feel anywhere but Rome. From the Esquilino market selling anything international, from food to clothes, to international restaurants and fast foods to shops displaying products from literally every corner of the planet, here you can find pretty much anything. Afghan jewelry, Chinese tea sets, and blends, Caribbean foods, Indian/Pakistani restaurants. You name it, you will find it.

See the biggest park of Ancient Rome

Unfortunately today you can only see a small piece because without prior booking a private tour because it’s private property, but Horti Sallustiani (Piazza Sallustio 21) was the largest park of ancient Rome. Once a lush garden populated by fountains, thermal baths and temples devoted to nymphs, Horti Sallustiani was a favorite place for Roman leaders such as Julius Ceasar and Vespasian and it’s where emperor Nerva died.

Go to the beach

This is probably best in summer, but also Spring is a nice season for a walk on the beach. You will get to the coast better if you rent a car but some are possible to reach also with public transport, either train or coach. Some of the favorite beaches near Rome? Fregene, Ostia Lido, Fiumicino, Ladispoli, Torvaianica and, a bit further away, Circeo, Sperlonga, Sabaudia and Anzio.

See the Roman town of Ostia Antica

Very easy to reach with a train ride from Ostiense/Porta San Paolo and with a single Atac ticket of 1.50 euro, Ostia Antica is a great sight to include in your Rome sightseeing. An important Roman city for trades and commerce, several diggings have been done recently that brought about new discoveries, including the fact that the city was much bigger even than the famous Pompeii.

Quirky and more unusual things to see in Rome

One of the truly unusual places to see in Rome, the magic door in Piazza Vittorio bears a mysterious past. Also called Porta Alchemica, “Alchemical Door,” it was built in the 17th century by a nobleman who got close to the world of alchemy and science. According to the legend, the mysterious inscriptions decorating the door are the formula to turn a plant into gold. This is definitely what to see in Rome if you are into esoteric history and culture.

Capuchins’ Crypt

The Capuchin Friars’ Crypt displays the bones of some 4,000 friars who died between 1528 and 1870 and is located in the undergrounds of Santa Maria della Concezione church in Via Veneto.

Along with bones, you can also see some mummified friars as well as the skeletons of three nephews of Pope Urbano VIII and Princess Barberini who died very young.

Casina delle Civette (House of the Owls) in Villa Torlonia

Casina delle Civette , “House of the Owls,” earned its moniker for the presence of two owls on the glass window at the entrance and the obsessive recurring of owl-themed decorations. Worth visiting both inside and outside.

Explore more of Villa Torlonia Park

The Roman residence of Fascist leader Benito Mussolini, Villa Torlonia is a relatively small but lovely park in the Nomentano area. You can have a nice walk and visit the Casino Nobile , where Mussolini lived and where he built his bunker for extra security, that today you can visit with a guided tour. Enter the Casino Nobile mansion also for its antiques and neo-classic and contemporary artwork.

Play and learn at the Museum of Light

The games of lights and shades, colorful reflections, optical illusions, and playful mirrors and shadows of the Museum of Light are only some of the things to do in Rome whether you are traveling with your family or in a group of friends.

Located in the city center next to Piazza Venezia, it’s easy to reach and fantastic to keep the whole family entertained for a couple of hours.

Try Rome’s foreign restaurants

Rome offers also a great choice of foreign restaurants. Chinese, Indian, Ethiopian, Japanese, Lebanese , French, Vietnamese, or Persian if you want to give Roman food a break, you can explore the new flavors found aplenty in the city.

Visit MACRO Museum

Located in Via Nizza in the Salario quarter, MACRO is Rome’s museum of contemporary art. Exhibitions, workshops, seminars and events of all kinds are organized here, so if you are a fan of contemporary artistic expressions, this is one of the Rome activities you will love.

Walk along the beautiful Galleria Sciarra

This is one of the unique places to visit in Rome’s city center. A Liberty-style covered gallery near the Trevi Fountain (entrance through Via Marco Minghetti) built at the end of the 19th century. Decorated with a main woman-focused theme, this is a private courtyard but open to the public during office hours.

See the relics of Rome’s industrial archaeology

Take a stroll around the Ostiense neighborhood and discover the relics of Rome’s industrial archaeology starting from the huge gasometer, carrying on to places like the old warehouse and the former main power plant in Centrale Montemartini museum.

See the Fascist Lots in the traditional Garbatella neighborhood

Garbatella is next to Ostiense and was created during the Fascist rule. Inspired by the English urban planning idea of “garden cities” of Ebenezer Howard as a response to the need for sprawling cities for a better quality of life, take a walk around Garbatella Lots and explore a truly traditional Roman neighborhood.

Visit the square Colosseum

For sure one of the unique things to do in Rome is a visit to the Palace of Italian Civilisation, called by the locals “square Colosseum” ( Colosseo quadrato ) for its resemblance to the more famous landmark and its square shape. Located in the modern EUR neighborhood, it was inaugurated in 1940 under Mussolini’s rule. Managed by the Fendi family, its ground floor is now devoted to a permanent exhibition showing the excellence of Italian craftsmanship and creativity.

Get your sweetness overload at a cat colony

There are several cat sanctuaries in Rome, where our furry friends live and are taken care of. The largest is the one at the monumental cemetery of the Verano, but probably the easiest to reach are the one at Largo Argentina and the one living around the Pyramid in the Testaccio neighborhood . The beautiful cats are used to people and don’t mind posing for a nice photo.

See Rubens’ powered painting

The large painting by Flemish artist Rubens is located on the main altar of Chiesa Nuova Church (Piazza della Chiesa Nuova 1) and features a Madonna that disappears once a week. This is a motor-powered painting and if you want to see the Virgin Mary disappearing, you need to go on Saturday when the priest activates the device at the end of the afternoon function.

Be amazed at the anamorphoses of Trinità dei Monti

One of the unique places to visit in Rome is inside Trinità dei Monti church on top of the Spanish Steps. Along a corridor of the convent, the walls are decorated with anamorphic frescoes that change depending on your position. So the more you walk, the more images you will see. It’s open to the public but visits must be booked. Check their website for more info.

Visit the Museum of the Souls in Purgatory, one of the unusual things to see in Rome

In the sacristy of the Gothic-style Sacro Cuore del Suffragio church near Piazza Cavour (Lungotevere Prati 12) is a one-of-a-kind museum. One of the unusual things to do in Rome, here on display is a collection of documents and evidence that would prove the existence of Purgatory and signs from the souls of the deceased.

Visit the dolls’ hospital, one of the unique things to do in Rome

The owner of this quirky and slightly creepy workshop is quite grumpy and unless you have a doll to treat, you can’t enter. This is a true dolls’ hospital and even though you can only view it from the outside, its very central location in Via Ripetta makes it very easy to visit.

Visit San Pietro in Vincoli

Much less visited than many other famous churches, San Pietro in Vincoli Basilica is located in its namesake piazza in the Monti neighborhood. Alongside the chains that held Saint Peter prisoner in Rome and Jerusalem, here you can also see the beautiful Moses sculpture by Michelangelo.

Explore Santa Maria Maggiore Basilica

This important church is one of the four papal basilicas. Located in the Esquilino neighborhood, it’s the only one that kept its early-Christian structure. It’s decorated with beautiful mosaics and you can also visit the undergrounds (booking required, more info on the Vatican website ).

TIP: To know more about this important worship place in Rome, you can book a full tour of Santa Maria Maggiore Basilica .

Admire the mosaics of Santa Prassede Basilica

The church of Santa Prassede is located in the Esquilino neighborhood. As history goes, St. Pudenziana was martyred together with her sister St. Prassede because they were giving a Christian burial to the martyrs in the land of their father, a Roman senator. The apse of this church is decorated with beautiful mosaics .

Duck into Santa Pudenziana Basilica

A very old Christian church, Pudenziana was Prassede’s sister. Here you can see both stunning mosaics and also go underground from the garden to visit a two-story insula and an ancient thermal bath. This church, too, is in the Esquilino area not far from Santa Prassede and Santa Maria Maggiore.

Visit Santi Cosma and Damiano Basilica for great mosaics

This is also a church famous for its mosaics, and even though located a stone’s throw from the Colosseum, it’s pretty unknown. Built in the 6th century on the site of former pagan temples, it can be easily accessed from Via dei Fori Imperiali.

Duck into Santa Maria Sopra Minerva Basilica

Close to the Pantheon, in this church, the remains of St. Catherine of Siena and the Italian painter Beato Angelico are kept. One of the few Gothic-style churches in Rome, it was built in the 13th century on the site of three pagan temples. While it’s not too big, it has a great deal of artwork by names of the likes of Michelangelo, Bernini and Filippino Lippi.

Admire a 3D fresco in Sant’Ignazio di Loyola Church

For sure there’s no lack of churches in Rome, but Sant’Ignazio di Loyola is not your average Catholic temple. At the moment of construction, in the 17th century, the money ran out, so the originally planned dome couldn’t be properly built anymore.

But thankfully, the talent and creativity of artist-priest Andrea Pozzo made up for the lack of funds. Thanks to a finely conceived perspective, you will have the impression of looking at a real dome supported by pillars while you will be standing underneath a fresco.

Explore the notable mansion of Palazzo Barberini

A fantastic place to learn more about the glamorous life of Rome’s noble families is Palazzo Barberini , the beautiful, majestic mansion that opens in Via delle Quattro Fontane near Via Veneto, Via del Tritone, and Fontana di Trevi.

Visit this palace for a glimpse of the Barberinis’ past and the rich collection of artwork that gathers masterpieces from Caravaggio, Bernini, Borromini, Pietro da Cortona, and Guido Reni. Make sure you don’t miss the spectacular staircases by Bernini at the entrance and by Borromini at the exit.

Go on a Bernini-themed tour

Gian Lorenzo Bernini has been one of the most prolific artists in Rome’s Baroque period, often regarded as the creator of Baroque sculpture and one of the leading architects, sculptors, and painters.

You can find Bernini’s Roman masterpieces scattered all around the city. Churches, fountains, sculptures, paintings, you name it, he did it. From the Four Rivers fountain in the heart of Piazza Navona to Palazzo Barberini to the world-famous colonnade of Saint Peter’s Square, you can find the touch of this incredible artist in many of the artwork that makes Rome so beautiful.

Seek out Borromini’s genius

Contemporary and eternal rival of Bernini, Borromini was an architectural genius. Unlike his peer, he was an introvert and quite bad-tempered, and this is mainly why he gained fewer commissions than Bernini who, on the other hand, was more talented in cultivating and nurturing relationships with the influential people of his time.

Some of Borromini’s masterpieces in Rome you shouldn’t miss include the gorgeous Sant’Agnese in Agone church in Piazza Navona and Sant’Ivo alla Sapienza in Corso del Rinascimento near the Pantheon.

What to do in Rome for a romantic trip

One of the best destinations for your honeymoon in Italy, there are many romantic things to do in Rome .

Evening walk along the Tiber

There is hardly anything more romantic in Rome than a night stroll along the Tiber river. The city lights and the landmarks you visited during the day reflect on the calm waters creating a beautiful view.

Enjoy a couple spa treatment

Many hotels offer spa treatments in Rome, but some are really romantic, especially those set in ancient Roman ruins. Such as the wellness center of Hotel Lunetta near Campo de’ Fiori where you can do a sauna, enter the steam room, and do a couple massage.

Enjoy a beautiful view

Thankfully, there is no shortage of such a thing in Rome. Go to the Garden of the Oranges in the Aventine Hill, enjoy the view from the Pincio Terrace in Villa Borghese, climb the dome of St. Peter’s Basilica or take a stroll on the Monte Mario hill for a scenic view from the Astronomical Observatory. From wherever you look, the landscape will be stunning.

Reserve a romantic dinner

No shortage of romantic restaurants in Rome. Candle-lit tables, alfresco options, beautiful views, and historical locations contribute to making the ambiance romantic and perfect for a date. Some of my favorite restaurants? Settimo in the Sofitel Villa Borghese Hotel for a fantastic view, Aroma in the 5-star Palazzo Manfredi hotel, Perpetual gourmet restaurant near the Colosseum.

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The 25 Top Attractions in Rome, Italy

TripSavvy / Christopher Larson

Rome, Italy is one of the great cities of the world. With its history spanning thousands of years, the city features monumental architecture, fabulous piazzas (squares), colorful mercatos (markets), and character-filled streets. It is truly dazzling at every turn. Rome's top tourist attractions include famous ruins as well as majestic churches, high-caliber art museums, charming piazzas, amazing food and shopping, and more.

Those going to the Eternal City will need a strategy to avoid being overwhelmed by the huge number of things to see. Tourists may need several visits to see everything in Rome, but even one trip will bring a lifetime of memories. 

Savor Italian Flavors

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Many people go to Italy to try the remarkable food, which is well-known around the world. So when in Rome, do as the Romans do: dine on the delicious pizza, pasta, gelato (Italian ice cream), and more. Grab something to eat at the mercatos, full of colorful, fresh produce. Sip on an espresso or a cappuccino at a local café. Some of the best-known cafés in Rome are Tazza d’Oro near Pantheon—started in 1946 and known for the granita , a partially frozen coffee with whipped cream—and Sant 'Eustachio Il Caffè, dating back to 1938 and located near Piazza Navona.

Head to MAXXI—National Museum of 21st Century Art

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MAXXI—National Museum of 21st Century Art is located in the Flaminio neighborhood of northern Rome. The museum designed by architect Zaha Hadid opened in 2010. Known Italian and international artists display their photography, paintings, and multimedia installations. Guests can also view conferences, workshops, screenings, shows, and more. Also, check out the Mediterranean Ristorante e Giardino, The Palombini Cafeteria for some coffee and chocolate, and the Museum Bookshop.

Go on a Great Day Trip

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The ancient city of Ostia Antica , around 35 minutes southwest of Rome, makes an exciting day trip. See well-preserved apartment buildings, a bakery, and even public toilets from this community that was abandoned by the fifth century.

Naples , a vibrant city just over an hour from Rome on the high-speed train, is a worthwhile destination. History buffs love the old markets, churches, castles, and more. Plus, it's the birthplace of pizza and a wonderful chance to eat a delicious one made in a wood-burning oven.

Lovely beaches aren't far from Rome, either. If you'd enjoy partying along with many young Romans, check out Fregene, about a 40-minute drive from Rome. Santa Marinella, around one hour by car, offers pleasant beaches, along with seafood restaurants and bars. An attractive town an approximately two-hour drive from Rome, Sperlonga is one of the best day trips. Expect clean water and sand along with a great place to relax and enjoy cafés, eateries, and shops.

Shop for Italian Goods

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Italy is famous for its fashion, and Rome has some of the country's best designer shops to explore. Via del Corso, one of Rome’s main shopping streets, has plenty of reputable clothing stores. Stroll down Via Condotti and the surrounding streets or Via Veneto for designer boutiques. If you are seeking antiques or art, try Via del Babuino, which connects Piazza di Spagna to Piazza del Popolo. 

Dating back to 1922, the Galleria Alberto Sordi, a mall with skylights made of stained-glass and mosaic floors, is among the most beautiful places to shop in Europe. You'll find everything from clothing and accessories to books and cosmetics in the mall.

Enjoy the Roman Nightlife

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If you would like an early evening aperitivo (drink before your meal) or some after-dark explorations of Roman nightlife, the city offers plenty of options. The colorful Trastevere neighborhood, about 15 minutes from the city center, is one of the top areas, offering craft beer in various creative bars, some featuring live entertainment. Pigneto , a trendy neighborhood around 15 minutes east of the Colosseum, has pubs and live music venues, LGBTQ+ clubs, and places to see modern dance and theater. Dance clubs and bars can also be found just outside of the city center, in neighborhoods such as Ostiense.

Gaze at The Colosseum

TripSavvy / Taylor McIntyre 

Dedicated by Emperor Vespasian in A.D. 80, the Colosseum (so-named for a colossal statue of Emperor Nero that once stood on the site) once held up to 50,000 people and was the scene of countless deadly gladiatorial and wild animal fights. The ancient amphitheater—located in the city center a bit east of the Roman Forum—is now the symbol of Rome and a requisite stop on most tourist itineraries.

Buy your tickets in advance to avoid waiting in a long, slow-moving line to see one of the largest arenas in the world.

Learn About The Roman Forum

Adjacent to the Colosseum, the Roman Forum is a huge complex of ruined temples, basilicas, and arches. One of the  top ancient sites in the city, the Roman Forum was the ceremonial, legal, social, and business center of ancient Rome. Wandering its iconic ruins dating back to as early as the seventh century B.C. is an essential part of any Rome visit.

Your ticket to the Colosseum includes entry at the Roman Forum and the Palatine Hill, and tours of all three sites are available.

Climb The Palatine Hill

TripSavvy / Christopher Larson 

Many visitors to the Colosseum and Forum don't make the climb up to the adjacent Palatine Hill, and they're missing out. One of the famous Seven Hills of Rome near the Tiber River, this was the high-rent district of ancient Rome, where emperors, senators, and other wealthy nobles built their homes. Though it's difficult to make sense of the many layers of ruins, it's rarely very crowded, and there is plenty of shade.

Get Inspired at St. Peter's Basilica

One of the most important churches in all Christendom and one of the largest in the world, St. Peter's Basilica is majestic and awe-inspiring, from its grand exterior to the soaring ceiling and ornate decoration of its interiors. You can limit your visit to the inside, or see the underground tombs of the popes. An alternative is to climb the dome (or take the elevator part-way) for an unforgettable view of Rome.

Experience the Vatican Museums and the Sistine Chapel

The vastness of the art and antiquities collection of the popes, coupled with the volume of people who visit every day means you'll need to devote at least half a day just to hit the highlights at the Vatican Museums in the Vatican City. From ancient Roman and Egyptian sculptures and artifacts to works by some of the greatest painters in Western art, the collections are mind-boggling. The Raphael Rooms in the Papal apartments are a must-see as is the Sistine Chapel, with its ceiling and wall frescoes by Michelangelo depicting stories from the Old Testament. 

Stroll Around Piazza Navona

TripSavvy / Stella Levantesi 

Even though it's often overrun with tourists and souvenir vendors, Piazza Navona is one of Rome's most stunning squares (though this one is an oval shape). It's also one of the city's largest. The entire piazza is a pedestrian area, lined with touristy restaurants and shops, plus the 17th-century church of Sant’Agnese in Agone. In the center of the piazza is Gian Lorenzo Bernini's famous Fountain of the Four Rivers. 

Note that while Piazza Navona is beautiful for a daytime or evening stroll, we don't recommend dining here—instead, find someplace more authentic off the piazza.

Delve Into History at The Pantheon

There's nothing quite like exiting the narrow medieval streets of Rome's centro storico (historic district) and stumbling upon the Pantheon , one of the world's best-preserved ancient buildings. The round structure was the "temple to all gods" for the ancient Romans. It's been a church since the 7th century A.D., which is one reason why it has managed to stay standing all these years. The only source of natural light in the cylinder-shaped, domed building is the 7.8-meter oculus (round skylight) at the top. One of the prettiest piazzas in Rome is the Piazza della Rotunda on which the Pantheon sits.

Take a Photo at The Spanish Steps

Built by the French in the 1720s, the Spanish Steps are not particularly important historically, but the elegant site draws visitors to Rome. Many people photograph and climb the 138 shallow steps, take a drink of water from the 18th century Fontana della Barcaccia ,  and enjoy a gelato while window shopping—or dropping some serious cash—in the designer shops lining the streets around the steps. In the springtime, the steps are decked out with colorful azaleas, and make for an even better photo op.

Look at the Beautiful Trevi Fountain

Rome's most famous fountain was completed in 1762 in the historic city center and is a grand example of high baroque public sculpture. The gleaming white marble Trevi Fountain depicts sea god Neptune surrounded by mermen, seahorses, and cascading pools. In an effort to control the dense crowds gathered in front of the fountain,​ guards keep people moving along. You'll still have time to toss a coin over your should (said to guarantee a return trip to Rome) and take a picture, but don't expect to sit and eat a gelato in front of the rushing waters.

Visit The Capitoline Museums

Set on top of the Capitoline Hill, one of the Seven Hills of Rome, the Capitoline Museums in the Palazzo dei Conservatori and the Palazzo Nuovo buildings house archaeological treasures from antiquity, as well as paintings from the Renaissance and Baroque eras.

Established by Pope Clement XII in 1734, the Capitoline Museums were the first in the world opened to the public. Some of the most famous pieces include fragments and a bust from a colossal statue of Constantine, a gigantic equestrian statue of Marcus Aurelius, and an ancient sculpture of twins Romulus and Remus suckling the she-wolf. 

View World-Class Art at Galleria Borghese

Galleria Borghese , one of Rome's top museums for art lovers, requires advance reservations, as attendance is limited via timed entry. So plan ahead to visit this world-class collection of art and antiquities, including masterful sculptures from Bernini, and paintings from Raphael, Titian, Caravaggio, Rubens, and other giants of the Renaissance and Baroque.

The Galleria Borghese is within the grounds of the Villa Borghese, a vast public park that was once the private gardens of the popes. Tourists enjoy the lake with boat rentals, plus playgrounds, and picnic areas. In the summertime, kids love the amusement rides and pony rides.

Imagine the Past at Baths of Caracalla

Completed in 216 A.D., the massive complex of the Baths of Caracalla (Terme di Caracalla) could hold up to 1,600 bathers simultaneously, who soaked in hot, cold, and tepid pools, and exercised in the gymnasium. Nobles, freemen, and slaves mingled at the baths. The Baths of Caracalla were richly decorated with mosaics, sculptures, and frescoes though today only fragments of the mosaics remain. The site impresses visitors with its sheer size and the genius of the engineering and design that kept the giant bathing complex operating for hundreds of years. 

Check Out Coins and Sculptures at National Roman Museum

The Museo Nazionale, or National Museum of Rome , is actually four different museums run by the same entity: The Palazzo Massimo alle Terme, the Palazzo Altemps, Baths of Diocletian, and the Crypta Balbi. A huge collection of Roman sculpture, coins, frescoes, and inscriptions can be found at The Palazzo Massimo, while the Palazzo Altemps is a more intimate collection of Roman works. The Baths of Diocletian were once Rome's largest—the Renaissance church built on top of them was designed by Michelangelo. Finally, the Crypta Balbi museum examines the development of a city block, from ancient Roman to medieval times.

Your admission ticket gains you entrance to all four museums within a three-day period.

Take in the Ornate Basilica di San Clemente

Like the majority of churches in Rome, the Basilica di San Clemente was built on top of a pagan site of worship. It's one of the best places in the city for understanding the complex "layering" of Rome, and of how buildings developed on top of other buildings. While the church itself is ornately beautiful, the real attraction here is the underground, self-guided tour, which includes a second-century Mithraeum, where worshipers would ritually slaughter bulls, an early Roman house. an underground river, and some of the oldest Christian frescoes in Rome.  

See the Ancient Trajan's Markets/Museum

This highly-recommended site often falls off many tourists' radar, and that's too bad. Trajan's Markets were a multi-level, arcaded shopping complex—basically the world's first mall—with individual stores that sold everything from food to clothing to housewares. The Museum of the Imperial Forums presents the history and development of the businesses and adjacent forums, and you can walk through the ancient market arcades, which are usually free of crowds. 

Catch City Views at Piazza del Popolo

One of Italy's largest piazzas, this grand space centers around an Egyptian obelisk and is anchored by three churches. The most important one, Santa Maria del Popolo, is on the north end of the square and contains works by Bernini, Raphael, and Caravaggio. Above the piazza, the Pincio Hill offers sweeping views of the city and behind it, elegant Villa Borghese park spreads out for acres. Piazza del Popolo is a rare Roman piazza in that it is not lined with cafés and restaurants, though there are many in the vicinity.

Tour Castel Sant'Angelo

Built as the mausoleum for Emperor Hadrian, this massive, round building near St. Peter's was subsequently used as a fortress, a prison, and as private apartments for the popes—its history is especially entwined with the infamous Borgia family. The Castel Sant'Angelo tour begins on the sixth-floor terrace, which is famous from Puccini's opera, "Tosca," and offers terrific views of Rome, then winds on a circular route down to the lower levels of the castle.

Sample Roman-Jewish Food in The Jewish Ghetto

Though it is now a charming neighborhood and a great place to sample traditional Roman-Jewish fare, the Roman Ghetto has a grim past. The walled neighborhood was established by a papal bull (a public decree) in 1555, and all Rome's Jewish population were required to live in the swampy, disease-prone district near the Tiber. While the ghetto was abolished in 1882, in the waning years of WWII, Nazis deported most of the area's Jews to concentration camps—and only a handful returned to Rome. 

Appreciate the Catacombs & the Appian Way

Plan at least a half-day of exploring this fascinating area on the outskirts of Rome. The Via Appia Antica is the most famous of Rome's roads. It is lined with the tombs of ancient Romans, from the massive Tomb of Cecilia Metella, a Roman Consul's daughter, to those with humble portrait busts of their occupants. There are miles of Christian catacombs along the Appian Way, but only three areas are open to the public: the catacombs of Saint Domitilla, Saint Callixtus, and Saint Sebastian. Some people only see one set of catacombs, so choose the one that works best for your interests and schedule.

Glance at Ancient Art at Palazzo Barberini

Despite its name, this art museum in the magnificent Barberini palace has mostly works from the Renaissance onwards, including important paintings from Raphael, Titian, and Caravaggio and other names you'd recognize from art history class. The palace itself, as well as the famous fountain out front, were designed by Bernini.

Admission to Palazzo Barberini also includes entrance to its sister museum, Galleria Corsini, housed in a handsome 16th-century palace.

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Top Attractions

Top 10 sights in rome.

The Colosseum, Fontana di Trevi, Sistine Chapel, Catacombs…Enjoy an unforgettable trip to Rome by visiting these 10 essential visits.

Top 10 sights in Rome

Roman forum, piazza navona, trevi fountain, st. peter's square, st. peter's basilica, sistine chapel, piazza di spagna & the spanish steps, you may also be interested in.

Explore Rome's most impressive squares, fountains, monuments and attractions. Rome is a breath-taking open-air museum and these are its top sights. 

Known as the Flavian Amphitheatre, the Roman Colosseum is one of the capital's most remarkable monuments. Every year over 6 million people visit it. 

Rome Bucket List: 35 Best Things to Do In Rome, Italy

Looking for the best things to do in Rome, Italy ? You’re in luck because this city never runs out of things to offer, and in this article, I’ll show you 35 of the must-dos.

I have always wanted to visit Rome. Its history which goes back thousands of years has always fascinated me, and so did its spectacular artwork and architecture. And when I finally got there, I wasn’t disappointed and I know you won’t be either.

Disclaimer*   This post contains affiliate links and I might earn a small commission if you purchase through them but with no extra cost to you. This commission helps to keep the lights on here. You can read our  privacy policy  for more details. Thank you for supporting the Adventurous feet

There are many things to do in Rome, and it can be a little overwhelming to decide where to go, especially if you only have a few days. Having given it some thought, I have decided to detail 35 of the best places to visit in Rome.

The Rome attractions I have chosen will give you a taste of ancient Italy, the Renaissance, and the Baroque Cultural Movement. I’ve also included some cool experiences that will make your trip even more memorable.

Of course, it will be hard to do everything if you just have a few days but you can choose and prioritize what you want to see first.

Before You Go, Here’s How To Plan Your Visit To Rome Quickly

Rome is a popular city which means that good hotels and tours book out fast, so before you go, make sure that you make your reservations in time to avoid disappointments! Below are my expert recommendations! ⏩ WHERE TO STAY IN ROME Best Colosseum view: Hotel Palazzo Manfredi (8.8/10) Luxury stay: H10 Palazzo Galla (9.2) Mid-range stay: Barberini Dream (9.5/10) Budget stay: Like Family House (9.4) Apartment rental/Airbnb: Apartment Julia Guesthouse (8.4) ⏩ GUIDES TOURS AND TICKETS YOU SHOULD BOOK IN ADVANCE Guided tour of the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill (4.6/5). This is the exact tour I took, and I couldn’t have been happier. We had a knowledgeable and fun tour guide. Skip-the-line ticket to the Sistine Chapel And The Vatican Museums with an audio guide (4.5/5). This ticket saved me a whopping 3 hours. You’ll pass in a dedicated Getyourguide line with it. It’s a true skip-the-line ticket. Borghese Gallery guided tour (4.7/5). This is my favorite museum in Rome, and this tour made me fall in love with it even more. Street food walking tour of Rome (4.8/5). If you want to taste Rome’s delicacies while exploring its popular neighborhood of Trastevere, then this is the food tour I recommend!

Best Things to Do In Rome, Italy

Here is everything that should be on your Rome bucket list!

1. Visit the Colosseum

You can’t visit Rome and not see the Colosseum ! It’s the most famous attraction in Rome, receiving almost 7 million visitors per year.

Built in the 1 st century in 80 AD, it could seat up to 80,000 people during gladiator fights and animal hunts, and to date, it’s still the largest amphitheater in the world.

Although two-thirds of it has been destroyed, it is still one of the best places to see in Rome.

You can take a tour inside the Colosseum to see where these fights were conducted, the seating arrangements, and the impressive architecture it holds. To give you an idea of what to expect, the Colosseum has different areas.

The different levels of seating, the first, second, and third, though the third can’t be visited as of now, the Arena Floor which you can walk on if you purchase a ticket that has it, and the underground where you have the opportunity to see where the gladiators, criminals, and wild animals were held before entering the arena. It has an eerie atmosphere harking back to the horrors of the time.

You can visit the Colosseum on your own but I highly recommend booking a tour! When I visited, I opted for this guided tour that combined a visit to the Colosseum with access to the Arena, the Roman Forum, and the Palatine Hill which was a good introduction to ancient Rome.

The tour guide was very knowledgeable, fun, and engaging and I truly believe I wouldn’t have enjoyed the Roman Forum or even learn about ancient Italy as much as I did if I hadn’t booked this guided tour !

And Fe (our tour guide) always made sure to find a shed during explanations — believe me it’s quite important since I visited when it was very hot. If I had to revisit the Colosseum, I’d definitely book this tour again.

Besides the tour I took, there are quite a number of tours of the Colosseum depending on what you want to see!

It can be quite confusing to know which tour to go for so I am going to make a summary below to help you choose! I made extensive research on them so you won’t need to! Plus, the tours below are the best in their respective categories.

✅ Guided Tour of the Colosseum (+Arena Access), Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill . (This is the tour I booked and it was a fast-track tour so we didn’t spend long in the queue to access the Colosseum)!

✅ Guided Tour of the Colosseum (+Underground), Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill . (If you prefer walking underground than on the Arena floor, then this is the tour you should book.)

✅ Guided Tour of the Colosseum (+Underground and Arena), Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill . (This is perfect if you want to walk on the Arena floor and the underground as well.) The tour is run by the same company I booked my tour with so I know you’ll have the same great experience I had.

✅ Guided Tour of the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill . (This one has no access to either the Arena or the Underground)!

✅ Independent visit of the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill . (I don’t recommend this as you’ll not learn the history behind Rome and the entry queue for this ticket is insanely long. But if you’re on a budget and don’t mind the queue, then you can opt for it).

2. Spend a Few Hours in the Roman Forum

Next to the Colosseum is the Roman Forum which is one of the top Rome tourist attractions

In Ancient Rome, the forum was the heart of the city housing public buildings such as law courts, temples, shops, and open-air markets.

Many of the structures in the Roman Forum still stand today, albeit in ruins such as the temples of Vesta , Saturn , and Romulus , some of the squares, and three of the five arches.

The most impressive arch is the Arch of Titus which shows scenes from his triumphal return to Rome after he captured Jerusalem in 70 AD.

Inside the Temple of Romulus , you will see some spectacular frescoes painted in the 14 th century after it had become a Roman Catholic church. There is also an original green bronze door that is one of the few left in Rome.

I don’t recommend visiting the Roman Forum without a tour guide because you’ll only be seeing ruins without understanding their historical importance.

As I mentioned earlier, you can book this guided tour that combines the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill .

3. Climb the Palatine Hill

To get the best views of the city, climb the Palatine Hill which is one of the best things to do in Rome.

The climb is steep and not recommended if you have health problems, but if you don’t, you will be duly rewarded. In case you are wondering, it is 40 meters (131 feet) high.

The area is one of the oldest in the city, and there are still some buildings, such as the Flavian Palace and the Temple of Cybele .

We know that the Ancient Romans were way ahead of their time, and you can witness the evidence here.

The Claudian Aqueduct was constructed over 2,000 years ago and managed to transport enough water for over 1 million people each day. There is also a hypocaust which provided under-floor heating.

✅ Click here to book your combined guided tour to the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill .

4. Throw a Coin in the Trevi Fountain

One of the fun things to do in Rome is to throw a coin in the Trevi Fountain , and, yes, I did.

If you want to return to Rome, throw in one coin. Two coins will bring you the love of your life in Rome while with three coins, you can wish for marriage or, less romantically, divorce!

Take the coin in your right hand, turn away from the fountain, and throw it over your left shoulder. I won’t tell you how many coins I threw in, but I got what I wished for!

And if you’re wondering how many coins get thrown in the fountain per day, it is about 3000 Euros per day.

On a more serious note, the Trevi Fountain is a remarkable example of Baroque artistry. It was designed by the architect Nicola Salvi between 1732 and 1762 and is a massive 26 meters (86 feet) high and 49 meters (161 feet) wide.

It pays homage to the Roman god of the sea, Neptune, who is in his chariot in the middle of the fountain being pulled by Tritons and horses.

The Trevi Fountain is just 1.6 km (1 mile) from the Colosseum which is about a 20-minute walk.

5. Visit The Pantheon

One of the places that should be high on your list of things to do in Rome is the Pantheon .

This magnificent Ancient Roman building was constructed in the early part of the 2 nd century AD on the order of Emperor Hadrian, making it one of the best-preserved buildings of ancient Rome.

Pantheon means “all gods” in Greek, but nobody is certain whom the temple was dedicated to. It remained a temple until 609 AD when it was converted into a Catholic church.

The Pantheon is a must see in Rome. There is a large rectangular porch at the front of the building with 16 granite columns which were all carved in Egypt. They measure a massive 12 meters (40 feet) in height and 1.5 meters (5 feet) in diameter.

Behind the porch is a magnificent dome that was originally covered in bronze, most of which was unfortunately stolen. It measures 43 meters (142 feet) in diameter.

On the inside of the dome are stone patterns and a central oculus that allows light to slip in, illuminating the building.

You’ll also be able to see the tombs of Vittorio Emanuele II who was the first king of Italy and Raphael (Raffaello Sanzio), a famous Italian painter.

The Pantheon is another building that is in the center of Rome, in the Piazza della Rotonda which is stunningly beautiful on its own with the Pantheon on one side, and a beautiful fountain and an obelisk in the center.

You’ll need an entry ticket to visit (it’s not free anymore) which you can buy directly at the entry of the Pantheon.

You can as well opt for this Pantheon guided tour to learn more history about it, but if you’d rather visit independently but still learn about it, then you can book this Pantheon audio guide .

✅ Click here to book your Pantheon guided tour !

6. Visit Castel Sant’Angelo (Castle of the Holy Angel)

Another one of the best things to do in Rome is to visit Castel Sant’Angelo or Castle of the Holy Angel in English, which was built as a Mausoleum for Emperor Hadrian, who ruled between 117 and 138 AD.

As time went on, it became part of the Vatican state (as a fortress and castle) with a corridor, Passetto di Borgo connecting it to St Peter’s Basilica. The castle is now a museum with 5 floors.

I know I keep telling you to climb to get fantastic views of Rom e, but you really should go up to the ramparts of the castle if your legs will take it.

Not only will you be able to see Rome, but you will also see St. Peter’s Square, which brings us to the next stop!

But before we look at the Vatican, make sure that you purchase this skip-the-line entry to Castel Sant’Angelo to avoid wasting time in line, or better yet book this guided tour to go with a knowledgeable guide to learn more about this monument.

✅ Click here to buy your skip-the-line ticket to Castel Sant’Angelo !

7. Admire St. Peter’s Square

I know that St Peter’s Square and Basilica are in the tiny state of Vatican City, but nearly everybody who goes to Rome wants to go there, and the only way in is through Rome.

This large square where Catholics flock to in the hope of seeing the Pope can accommodate over 300, 000 people.

Designed by Bernini from 1656 to 1667, it is flanked by 284 large columns with 140 statues of saints above them and 88 pilasters.

While the square is beautiful to look at with its fountains and an obelisk at the center, the best spot to take in its entire beauty is from Via della Conciliazione , a street that connects Castel Sant’Angelo to the Vatican City.

8. Visit St. Peter’s Basilica

After admiring St Peter’s Square, you have to make your way to the most famous church in the world, which is also the largest church in the world if you consider only the interior measure.

St. Peter’s Basilica is a beautiful building, the façade ornately decorated with statues of Christ and the 12 apostles, but once you step inside, you’ll appreciate its beauty even more.

There are stunning artworks inside the Basilica, including the Throne of St. Peter and the high altar by Bernini, various beautiful sculptures and paintings , the ornate ceiling and dome , Michelangelo’s Pieta , a famous sculpture, St. Peter’s Chair , the Monument to Pope Alexander VII , and so many others.

And while there, be sure to climb the dome that was designed by Michelangelo to enjoy the stunning views of Rome, but mostly St. Peter’s Square.

To climb the dome, you can take an elevator first and later climb the very steep 300 + steps or take the steps from the beginning.

You should note that entrance to the church is free but you’ll need to purchase a ticket to climb the dome. I booked this St. Peter’s Basilica & Dome Entry Ticket & Audio Tour but to be honest, I wouldn’t do it again if I had to.

I felt like it was a bit overpriced for what it is and you have to download the audio guide on your phone which is not ideal if you want to keep your phone battery intact.

The hosts help with entrance but then again, I could do that on my own since it was not a skip-the-line entry but rather the host queuing with us in the general line. If you need this kind of assistance, then you can go for it but if not, just buy the dome ticket alone.

Alternatively, you can book an actual guided tour of the basilica with dome access. This one has great reviews on GetYourGuide .

Pro tip* Make sure you arrive very early! I arrived at 9 am and there was a queue already (though bearable) but by 11 am when I left the basilica, the line was absolutely insane. However, I passed by at around 4:00 pm and there was barely anyone, so you can try to plan around this.

✅ Click here to book your St. Peter’s Basilica guided tour plus dome access !

9. See the Spanish Steps

Most people have heard of the Spanish Step s, but perhaps you are wondering why they are called this. It is because, in the 17 th century, the Spanish Embassy was at the bottom of the steps.

One of the main attractions in Rome, the 135 steps connect the Piazza di Spagna at the bottom to the Piazza Trinità dei Monti at the top.

Yet another climb, you say, but there are points along the way where you can stop for a rest. The Piazza Spagna houses lovely little shops and cafes, while at the top is the Trinità dei Monti church and another spectacular view.

And just below the steps, there is a fountain, Fontana della Barcaccia that is worth stopping at.  

These steps have become famous because they are the widest and the longest in Europe, and they have hosted fashion shows and concerts.

The Spanish Steps are in the center of Rome, and there is a metro station at the bottom, and bus routes pass by so they’re easy to get to.

10. Visit the Galleria Borghese

Although small, the Galleria Borghese is a must see in Rome, and it quickly became one of my favorite museums in Rome .

It houses a spectacular collection of sculptures and paintings created by famous artists such as Botticelli, Bernini, Titan, Rubens, Caravaggio, and Raphael. In fact, this gallery has the largest collection of Caravaggio’s paintings in the world.

Highlights include the sculpture of Apollo and Daphne by Bernini, The Deposition painting by Raphael, the sculpture of Pauline Bonaparte by Antonio Canova, Saint Jerome Writing by Caravaggio, and many others.

As well as Renaissance and Baroque artwork, there is a collection of mosaics and sculptures from Ancient Rome. 

This amazing collection is due to one man obsessed with art, Cardinal Scipione Borghese (1577 – 1633).

Besides paintings and sculptures, the rooms themselves and the ceilings are stunningly beautiful!

The building is in the Borghese Villa complex and it was opened to the public in 1903.

I recommend booking in advance because tickets sell out fast, and with a pre-booked ticket, you get to skip the lines. There are five time slots and only 360 people are allowed into the gallery in each slot, meaning that the museum is never crowded.  

On my visit, I booked this guided tour because I wanted to learn more about the artwork, and the stories behind them and I was so glad I booked it because the tour guide was very knowledgeable, accommodating, and above all, he loved what he was doing so it made the tour even more interesting.

If you’d rather visit without a guide, you can still purchase this entry ticket with reserved entry .

✅ You can book your guided tour of Borghese Gallery from here !

11. Wander Around the Villa Borghese Gardens

The beautiful backdrop of the Villa Borghese Gardens , the third largest park in the city is the setting for the Galleria Borghese.

It covers about 200 acres (809,371 square feet) and it would be a pity not to explore the gardens after you’ve visited the gallery.

As well as the Galleria Borghese, you will find the Gallery of National Modern Art , the Museum Carlo Bilotti , and the Etruscan Museum which is housed in the Villa Giulia .

If you want to convene with nature, there are walking trails to take you through different areas of the Gardens, some of which are landscaped.

There are beautiful fountains and a lovely pond which houses Tempio di Esculapio where you can enjoy a rowing excursion. You can even rent a Segway, kart, or bicycle to get around the Gardens.

The gardens also have a number of viewpoints but the absolute best is at Terazza del Pincio which offers fantastic views of Piazza del Popolo.

Next to it is a stylish restaurant, the Casino Valadier . It’s expensive but the food lives up to expectations. However, there are more reasonably priced restaurants and cafes throughout the gardens.

If you have children, there are plenty of things to keep them occupied. There is a zoo, playgrounds, and a puppet theatre. There is even a little train to take you around the gardens, an experience both kids and adults will enjoy.

With that in mind, there is no doubt that the Villa Borghese Gardens is one of the best things to do in Rome for both adults and children. 

12. Admire the Artwork In the Sistine Chapel and the Vatican Museums

One of the most interesting things to do in Rome is to visit the Vatican Museums , one of which is the famous Sistine Chapel .

I must admit that the Sistine Chapel was one of the highlights of my trip to Rome. I expected it to be good, but it exceeded all expectations.

There is a total of 54 museums in the Vatican Museums, including the Gregorian Egyptian Museum and the Borgia Apartments .

Don’t expect to get through all of them in one day so make your choices before you visit and book before you go.

The museums house around 70,000 works of art including both Ancient Roman sculptures and Renaissance paintings and sculptures.

Highlights include The Entombment of Christ by Caravaggio, the Gallery of Maps created by Danti, and The Tapestry Room . There are also four rooms solely dedicated to Raphael’s frescoes.

As you wander from room to room, you’ll also find the Sistine Chapel. If you’re visiting independently without a guide, just follow the arrows toward the Sistine Chapel.

The Sistine Chapel was built between 1473 and 1481 during the rule of Pope Sixtus IV, and it is where new popes are elected.

Even if you’re not a Roman Catholic, you will be amazed by the beautiful frescoes that cover the entire ceiling by Michelangelo.

Some of the highlights to look out for include The Creation of Man , a spectacular depiction of God breathing life into Adam who has been made in God’s image, The Temptation of Christ by Botticelli , and The Last Judgment by Michelangelo, but to be honest, every little detail is quite impressive.  

The only downside to the Vatican museums and Sistine Chapel is how crowded it is! At one point, it felt like we were queuing in the museums just to get from one point to another, especially around the Gallery of Maps and at the entrance to the Sistine Chapel. It’s even worse if you visit around Easter and during the summer.

This crowd also means that the queue to access the museums themselves is insane! If you don’t have a skip-the-line ticket, you can easily spend 2-4 hours just waiting in line.

But luckily for me, I had purchased this skip-the-line ticket plus an audio guide . If there is one place in Rome you should spend on a skip-the-line ticket, it’s this one!

And it’s not one of the places where they advertise a skip-the-line and you have to go through the security line for 30 minutes. This one was truly a skip-the-line because I entered the museum in just 5 minutes through a dedicated GetYourGuide Skip-the-Line queue.

I didn’t go with a tour but rather an audio guide which I found enough for me, but if you want to go with one, this one is highly rated on GetYourGuide .

✅ Click here to buy your skip-the-line ticket to Sistine Chapel and the Vatican Museums !

13. Visit the Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore

Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore , CC BY 4.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

80 churches in Rome are dedicated to the Virgin Mary and this is one of the most spectacular.

The Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore is one of the largest churches in Rome and is situated in a piazza of the same name. The metro stops close by as well.

Take time to admire the outside of the basilica which has a spectacular bell tower rising above the rest of the building. It is the tallest bell tower in the city at 75 meters (246 feet) high. The façade also has a central arrangement of stone columns with statues on top worth admiring.

The inside is awe-inspiring with frescoes, gold embellishments, and paintings adorning both the walls and the ceiling. Underneath the altar is a Crypt of the Nativity with pieces of wood from the crib of Jesus, or so it is said. I would like to think that they are.

There is a also small museum in the basilica where you can learn more about the building and its history, as well as view Renaissance paintings. 

The church is free to visit but if you want to learn some historical facts about it and access some closed-off places in the church, you can join this Santa Maria Maggiore Basilica guided tour .

14. Take in The Beauty of Piazza Navona

One of the best Rome attractions is the Piazza Navona ! Located in the historic center of the Eternal City, there is no doubt that it’s one of the most beautiful squares in Rome !

Piazza Navona was built in the 1st century AD in the area where the Stadium of Domitian , used for athletic events during the Roman Empire once stood, though it wasn’t converted into a public space until the 15th century.

The highlight of the piazza is La Fontana dei Quattro Fumi (The Fountain of the Four Rivers), by Bernini in the center of the square. It has an enormous obelisk in the middle and four statues representing the four rivers, the Rio de la Plata, the Ganges, the Nile, and the Donau.

There are also 2 other fountains, Fontana del Moro (Fountain of the Moor) on the southern end and Fontana del Nettuno (Fountain of Neptune) on the northern end.

If you feel adventurous, you can go underground into the square and visit the ancient ruins of the Stadium of Domitian (which was declared a Unesco World Heritage Site) to learn about the history of Rome in the Museo di Roma.

There is also a bar at the top of the museum which offers beautiful views of the piazza. You can access the site on Via di Tor Sanguigna 3.

The square also houses Sant ’Agnese in Agone church which is a beautiful expression of Baroque architecture.

The square also receives a number of artists, dancers, and street musicians who add to the already vibrant ambiance. Prefer to just watch or have your portrait taken?

You will also find street vendors selling a wide variety of souvenirs. They can get pushy so you will have to stand strong if you don’t want to buy their wares.

And if you get hungry, be sure to check out one of the many restaurants, cafes, and bars surrounded by the square.

15. Admire the Victor Emmanuel II National Monument

One of the best things to do in Rome is to admire the Victor Emmanuel II National Monument or Altar of the Fatherland as sometimes known.

Dedicated to King Victor Emmanuel II, the first king of a unified Italy from 1861-1878, this monument is part of an enormous building called the Complesso Vittoriano in Piazza Venezia in central Rome.

The white marble façade is imposing, especially the two horse-drawn carriages on the top of the building and the equestrian statue of King Victor Emmanuel II. The portico has tall columns and two fountains representing the Adriatic and the Tyrrhenian seas.   

You can go inside and climb the 243 steps for great views of the city and then take an elevator right to the top where you will get even better views. It’s worth doing unless you fear heights!

But even if you don’t climb to the top, just standing on the Vittoriano terraces will treat you to stunning views of the city from the ruins, the nearby churches, a view of St Peter’s Basilica, Piazza Venezia, and many others.

Inside the building, you will see frescoes and sculptures of King Victor and the goddess, Diana.

There is also a museum displaying weapons and flags, and a tomb with an eternal flame just outside dedicated to an unknown Italian soldier who represents everyone who lost their lives during wars and battles.

Honestly, just walking around the entire complex is rewarding and it should definitely be on your list of stuff to do in Rome.

16. Stroll Along the Ponte Sant’Angelo

Ponte Sant’Angelo is a bridge spanning the river Tiber leading to the Castel Sant’Angelo. It is worth visiting as it is one of the loveliest bridges in the city and offers great photographic opportunities for the castle.

The bridge is covered in travertine marble and has 10 intricately sculpted statues of angels sitting on top of the ramparts.

It was built in 134 AD on the orders of Emperor Hadrian and still has 3 of the original 5 arches. The current angel statues were created in 1669 by Bernini to replace the decaying ones, though he personally created 2 of them.

At each end of the bridge are statues of Saint Peter and Saint Paul, commissioned by Pope Clement VII in the 16 th century.

A gory fact about this bridge is that executed bodies were hung there for everyone to see!

17. Visit Basilica di San Clement

Gryffindor , CC0, via Wikimedia Commons

If you are looking for things to see in Rome that don’t attract too many crowds, head to the Basilica di San Clement . It is a small church but is just as grandiose as the larger basilicas in Rome.

The basilica is split into three parts. The newest basilica was completed in 1123 and is stunning. The floor is made from marble in geometric patterns and the ceiling is decorated with gold. There are also gold mosaics in the apse.

Descend one level to see the remains of the first basilica, built in the 4 th century AD. Here, you will find some well-preserved early Medieval frescoes.

Go down another level and you’ll find a temple from Ancient Rome. The temple is dedicated to the Persian god, Mithras, who was worshipped by many Roman men.

The Basilica di Sant Clement is close to the Colosseum and is easily reached by public transport. It’s free to visit the church but you’ll need a ticket to access the 2 lower levels.

18. Visit the Domus Aurea

Howard Hudson , CC BY-SA 3.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

Emperor Nero had this enormous palace (known as the Golden House) built after the Great Fire of Rome which occurred in 64 AD.

He had an artificial lake created and even added gardens, woods, and vineyards. The palace was elaborately decorated with gold and precious stones were put in paintings and stuccos. The palace oozed opulence.

However, because Nero was a sadist and murderer, his successors erased the palace on his death, filling it up with earth and removing the sculptures and all the extravagant possessions. It wasn’t rediscovered until the 15 th century.

The Palace was built on both Palatine Hill and Oppian Hill but the only part that can be visited today is on Oppian Hill, the place where festivities were held in Ancient Roman times.

Because the palace is fragile, you can only take a guided tour and numbers are limited, so it’s never crowded but it’s also best to book well in advance to guarantee a spot.

The tour is exciting as you are given virtual reality glasses so that you can see the Domus Aurea as it was before in all its glory.

✅ Click here to book your guided tour of Domus Aurea .

19. Enjoy Street Food at Testaccio Market

If you are a foodie, one of the best places to visit in Rome is Testaccio Market . It is one of the oldest markets in Rome although it moved to its current location in 2012 and it’s now a covered market.

On top of selling fresh produce, there are also stalls selling prepared food making it a great place to go for either breakfast or lunch for cheap. It’s just a pity that they don’t open in the evenings!

If you want pasta, head to Le Mani in Pasta as they will cook your dish to order, or Sano Burger for vegan burgers in different colored buns.

For meat lovers and adventurous foodies, try the Roman meat sandwiches at Mordi & Vai . They use “unconventional” fillings such as intestines simmered in tomato sauce, tripe, or tongue! And for pizza, be sure to check out Casa Manco .

You can also take this guided food tour to try a selection of typical Roman foods as well as explore the neighborhood.

20. Visit Capitoline Hill And The Capitoline Museums

As one of the seven hills of Rome, Capitoline Hill was an important religious site in Roman times and had many temples dedicated to their gods.

Today, it has a beautiful piazza and is home to the Rome city council as well as the Capitoline Museums .

The stairs leading up to the summit of Capitoline Hill were designed by Michelangelo and at the top are 2 statues of Castor and Pollux.

There is also a massive replica bronze statue of Emperor Marcus Aurelius on a horse with the original being in one of the museums.

You can roam around the hill freely to admire the various buildings, the onsite church, Basilica di Santa Maria in Ara Coeli , and squares, and later head to the viewpoint at Terrazza sul Foro to take in the beautiful views of the Roman Forum.

From there, you can visit the Capitoline museums which are located in the Palazzo dei Conservatori and the Palazzo Nuovo.

The museums house some spectacular sculptures by Caravaggio, Tiziano, and others including that of the statue of the famous she-wolf of Rome which the legend says brought up Romulus and Remus, the founders of Rome.

✅ To access the museums, you’ll need to purchase this entry ticket .

21. Watch an Opera at Teatro dell’Opera di Roma

Lalupa at it.Wikipedia , CC0, via Wikimedia Commons

Italy is big on opera and watching one at Teatro dell ‘Opera Di Roma (Rome Opera House) is an experience not to be missed if you are a fan of this genre of music.

I do advise that you book tickets well in advance as seats get booked quickly. The opera season usually lasts from November until June and between July and October, performances are held outside at the ruins of the Baths of Caracalla. If you can’t get tickets to the show, you can take a tour of the theatre during the day.

The stage at Teatro dell ‘Opera D Roma has been honored with artists such as Caruso, Maria Callas, Montserrat Caballé, Placido Domingo, and Pavarotti.

The theater holds 1,600 spectators and the dress code is smart casual although on opening nights, people will dress up. You can check the official website to see what’s on before your visit.

Besides the Rome Opera House, there are other places where you can watch an opera like Waldesian Church , Caravita Church , and more. You can check out these concerts in the widget below.

22. People Watch at the Piazza del Popolo

One of the best Rome tourist attractions is the Piazza del Popolo , a beautiful square in the center of Rome.

There are plenty of cafes and restaurants where you can watch the world go by.

However, there is plenty to see and do in the piazza as it is filled with history. There are 3 churches that you can visit which contain artwork by artists like Bernini and Caravaggio, and some lovely fountains, offering photographic opportunities.

In the center of the piazza, there is an enormous fountain with sculptures of four lions and an enormous obelisk from Egypt with original hieroglyphs adorning it.

The piazza also has a museum that is dedicated to the scientific works of Leonardo da Vinci. It is interactive and is one of the fun things to do in Rome, especially for older children. 

Beyond history, the piazza also has a cool vibe, especially in the evening with various artists and musicians showcasing their talents!

23. Visit the National Roman Museum

Baths of Diocletian – dearbarbie , CC BY-SA 2.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

Founded in 1889, the National Roman Museum is split into four sites; Crypta Balbi , Palazzo Altemps , Palazzo Massimo , and Baths of Diocletian which all celebrate ancient Rome.

The Crypta Balbi museum is close to the city center and houses artifacts from Ancient Rome up to the Middle Ages. The site was originally a theater and below the floor, you can visit the crypt where spectators would go for a drink in the interval.

In the Palazzo Altemps , you will find an impressive collection of Ancient Roman sculptures, including one of Ludovisi Dionysus, Ludovisi Gaul, the Statue of Hercules, and more. The first floor has lovely frescoes and gilded ceilings too.

The third museum is the Palazzo Massimo and it houses well-preserved sculptures, reliefs, frescoes, and mosaics made between the 2 nd century and 4 th century AD. All these are from excavations undertaken in Rome over the years.

The final museum is in the Baths of Diocletian which used to be public baths in ancient Rome. Only a small part remains but the highlight here is the cloister garden which houses over 400 artworks including sarcophagi, reliefs, and statues.

You can buy a combined ticket on the official website to visit all 4 museums or buy individual tickets for the museums you’d like to visit.

24. Visit Palazzo Colonna

I, Sailko , CC BY-SA 3.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

When deciding on things to do in Rome, you shouldn’t leave out the Palazzo Colonna ( Colonna Palace ), a grand private palace that still belongs to the Colonna family.

The Palazzo Colonna Gallery must be seen to be believed. It will take you on a baroque adventure with both beautiful artwork and architecture.

The floors are made of marble, the ceilings are covered in frescoes, the doors are adorned with gold, and the pillars are magnificent. Everything in this palace is opulent from the Great Hall and Throne Room to the Hall of Landscapes .

There are also beautiful paintings scattered all around the gallery worth seeing.

Be sure to also visit the lavish Princess Isabelle apartment which is considered to be one of the most impressive apartments in the world.

And when you’re done with the inside, take time to wander around the lovely gardens and the courtyard surrounded by massive trees and Roman columns.

You can either take a guided tour of the palace or explore it yourself. If you opt for the latter, access is only possible on Fridays and Saturdays, but you can also visit it during the rest of the week if you opt for a private tour.

✅ Click here to purchase your ticket to Palazzo Colonna .

25. Visit the Catacombs of Rome

Entrance to Catacomb of Callixtus – Dnalor 01 , CC BY-SA 3.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

Catacombs have always fascinated me. Perhaps I just like a shiver going down my spine! If you feel the same way, then the Roman catacombs are among the must see things in Rome.

Catacombs are early Christian cemeteries that were built underground between the 2 nd and 5 th centuries AD.

There are over 60 different catacombs in the city, though only 5 are open to the general public.

However, if you only have time to visit one, then I suggest going to the Catacombs of St Callixtus since it’s the most famous and one of the largest.

Dating back to the 2 nd century, there are over half a million Christians buried here, including the crypt of Saint Cecilia and some of the early popes.

The popes are buried in a chamber called Little Vatican adorned with beautiful frescoes.

These catacombs are located on Via Appia or the Appian Way where you will also find the Catacombs of San Sebastiano .

Because it is easy to get lost in the tunnels, visits to all catacombs are only possible with a guide, and this is the guided tour of St Callixtus Catacombs I recommend .

Pro tip: It gets cold down there, even in the summer, so bring a pullover and wear flat shoes as the paths aren’t even. 

If you’d rather visit other catacombs, then you can check out my recommended guided tours in the widget below.

26. Admire the Villa Medici

The Medici family was a powerful banking and political dynasty that first took power in the Republic of Florence in the 15 th century and then in Tuscany. However, they also had a palace in Rome known as Villa Medici .

It is opulent and is one of the places to see in Rome if only to admire the magnificent Renaissance artwork the family accumulated.

If you want to visit, you will need to take a guided tour from the official website since you can only access the historical places with a tour.

The villa also has gardens that are perfectly landscaped and divided into 16 squares and 6 lawns. They are beautiful but since gardeners and artists work there, you’ll have to book a tour to explore them too.

And if you are lucky to visit at the right time, you might catch a temporary art exhibition or even a musical performance.

One of the surprising things about this villa is that it’s owned by the French state not Italian, all thanks to Napoleon I moving the French academy in Rome in the villa in 1803.

27. Wander Around Trastevere District

The Trastevere District is the place to go if you want to witness real Roman life.

Street vendors, people shouting at each other from their homes, and a young crowd hanging around the piazzas, this is what you can expect if you go off the beaten path in Trastevere and not just in the main piazza.

Whether you choose to just wander down the cobbled, winding streets, stop for an espresso or aperitivo, try authentic Italian food, or shop at one of the small boutiques or craft shops, there is plenty of things to do in Trastevere.

The entire neighborhood is vibrant, especially around Piazza di Santa Maria . You’ll find a number of restaurants, cafes, and bars to grab a drink or dinner, and several artists doing their thing!

If there is one place in Rome to enjoy the vibrant and fun nightlife, it has to be Trastevere.

28. Visit Villa Farnesina

Jean-Pierre Dalbéra from Paris, France , CC BY 2.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

While still in the neighborhood of Trastevere, be sure to visit the Villa Farnesina which belonged to Agostino Chigi in the 15th century.

It is now a museum with frescoes depicting mythological scenes painted by famous Italian artists such as Raphael and Peruzzi.

The highlight of the ground floor is the fresco of the Loggia of Cupid and Psyche . The museum also holds some lesser-known paintings by Raphael such as The Triumph of Galatea which is, unusually for him, a secular piece of artwork.

In the master bedroom, you will see frescoes painted by Giovanni about the life of Alexander the Great.

✅ You can opt for this 2-hour private tour of Villa Farnesina , or take this guided tour that combines both the villa and the Trastevere district . 

29. Visit the Centrale Montemartini

C entrale Montemartini , CC BY-SA 3.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

One of the places to see in Rome if you want to get away from the crowds is Centrale Montemartini .

It is a museum housed in an old power station where you will find artifacts mingling with diesel engines and steam turbines.

If you are interested in Ancient Rome, you will be in your element in this museum as it houses 400 statues, including some made from marble depicting various pagan gods.

In the Hall of Columns, you will find busts of important Romans from the 1 st century BC.

There is a modern room as well with an exhibition of Pope Pius IX’s carriages.

30. Admire the Church of Saint Ignatius of Loyola

If you still have time and are not sure of what to do in Rome, Italy, why not visit the Church of Saint Ignatius of Loyola ?

Built in the 17 th century, it is dedicated to the Spaniard soldier of the same name who became a priest and founded the Jesuit order.

While the exterior of the church doesn’t give much, don’t be fooled by it! The interior is absolutely stunning!

The ceiling is magnificent as is usually found in churches and basilicas in Italy but what makes it even more appealing is the mirror placed at the bottom where you get a clear reflection of the beautiful ceiling of the nave. This spot has become increasingly famous with Tik Tokers and Instagrammers.

Another interesting feature about this church is that instead of an actual dome which was never built due to lack of money, there is a fake one that was painted instead by Andrea Pozzo who also painted the beautiful frescoes on the ceiling.

Pozzo also created paintings for the apse which record scenes from the life of Saint Ignatius, and he even designed the chapels.

At the end of the right aisle, you will see the funerary monument dedicated to Pope Gregory XV who was pope for just 2 years in the early 17 th century.

The church is free to visit but if you want to take a photo or video from the mirror, you’ll spend there some time as there is always a queue.

Needless to say, this is one of my favorite churches in Rome, and the mirror is worth queuing for.

31. Visit the Basilica di San Giovanni in Laterano

If you are on the other side of the city from the Vatican, the Basilico de San Giovanni in Laterano is well worth a visit.

It is not that well known but surprisingly, it is the official seat of the Pope. I wonder if you thought it was the Vatican. I know I did until I read about this basilica. However, the Pope rarely visits.

Inside, there are six papal tombs, and the cedar table used on the Altar of the Holy Sacrament is reputed to be the table Christ and the apostles used at the Last Supper.

It is free to enter the basilica but if you want to visit the cloisters, there is a small entrance fee. It is worth going in as it houses some beautiful mosaics and unusual spiral columns.

Outside the basilica, in the baptistery, you will find more mosaics dating back to the 5 th century.

32. Shop ‘til You Drop in Campo de Fiori

Campo de Fiori is a piazza across the road from Piazza Navona but it is less assuming.

In the 15 th century, shops, workshops, and restaurants started to pop up in Campo de Fiori and now the area around it is one of the best shopping spots in Rome.

In the morning, market stalls are set up in the piazza. Originally, they sold just fruits and vegetables but now they sell souvenirs to take home such as prettily packaged bottles of Limoncello or Grappa.

If you are looking for unusual stuff to do in Rome, head to this piazza. It has a bit of a grim, though fascinating past as executions were held here.

You will also see a statue of the philosopher, Giordano Bruno, in the center of the piazza who was burned alive here.

Campo de Fiori is a lovely place to visit in the late afternoon when it comes alive with people heading to the bars for a pre-dinner aperitivo.

33. Marvel at the Size of Circus Maximus

Circus Maximus used to hold chariot-racing competitions giving slaves the opportunity to gain their freedom. Sometimes, reconstructions of battles were held here as well as athletic competitions and gladiator fights.

It was first constructed in the 6 th century BC and was in use until the 6 th century AD. Although there isn’t that much left of it, you still get an idea of its magnitude by walking around it.

Having been 621 meters  (2,037 ft) long with a capacity of holding 150,000 spectators, it was much bigger than the Colosseum.

You will have the opportunity to see a part of one of the stands and some arcades. However, the contours on the grassy areas give you an impression of the enormity of the arena.

✅ To learn more about its history, you can book this combined guided tour of Circus Maximus and the Caracalla Baths !

34. Visit the Teatro Marcello

Need more ideas about what to see in Rome? Then check out Teatro Marcello which was built in the closing days of the Roman Republic.

It is situated in what was the Jewish ghetto and has come to be known as the Jewish Colosseum as it looks very similar to the Colosseum.

People would gather here to watch both drama and musical performances. It held up to 20,000 people and was also used by dignitaries for assemblies and as a market. Unfortunately, you can only see it from the outside.

35. Visit Trajan’s Forum and The Forum of Augustus

My last two suggestions of where to go in Rome are right next door to each other along the Via dei Fori Imperiali, which means The Street of the Imperial Forums, not far from the Roman Forum.

Here, you will find many forums built by different Roman Emperors but the most famous are Trajan’s Forum and The Forum of Augustus.

T he Trajan’s Forum was commissioned by Emperor Trajan who ruled between 98 and 117 AD and was known for his military prowess and benevolence towards his citizens. He commissioned it after his victory in the Dacian Wars.

The forum also had a Basilica, a temple, and 2 libraries. There isn’t much left but Trajan’s column still stands.

The Forum of Augustus was built to celebrate Augustus beating Caesar at the Battle of Philippi.

It was dedicated to the Roman god of war, Mars. You can still see the columns and steps of the Temple of Mars. This forum was also used for political events.

For an even more exciting experience, I recommend visiting at night as images are projected onto the ruins showing how the forums might have looked back in ancient times.  

Final Thoughts on the Best Things to Do in Rome

Hopefully, you are now keen to pack and head to the airport so that you can explore the Eternal City of Rome.

I have given you 35 things to do in Rome, and these should start you off on your journey.

Believe me, there is so much more to see and do in the city, but if you start with these, you will get a well-rounded picture of Rome.

As you wander between each attraction, you will probably come across other gems, and nothing is stopping you from taking a little detour.

Check out these posts to help you plan your trip to Rome

• Rome Instagram captions
• Instagram captions for Italy
• Best things to do in Rome at night

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Home » Europe » Italy » Rome

37 BEST Places to Visit in Rome (2024)

What can you say about Rome? Once the most powerful nation in the world and the seed from which western culture grew, Rome has everything. If you love history, Italian food, amazing scenery, or friendly people, you’ll find all that and more when you visit Rome – the incredible, beautiful city.

But that doesn’t mean that traveling to Rome is trouble-free. A lot of stories come out of Rome about pickpockets and other issues that travelers have while in this stunning place.

And while these stories may be true, that doesn’t mean that you should avoid Rome. Because if you do, you’ll be avoiding one of the most beautiful and historically significant cities in the world.

As long as you’re careful and you pay attention to the tips and tricks in this guide, you’ll be able to avoid problems and have the trip of a lifetime while in Rome.

Need a place quick? Here’s the best neighborhood in Rome:

These are the best places to visit in rome, faq on the best places to visit in rome, final thoughts on the coolest places to visit in rome.

Storico Centro

The Storico Centro is home to many of Rome’s greatest landmarks, so if you’re searching for where to stay in Rome for sightseeing, this is the district for you.

• Sip and sample your way through the bustling Mercato Centre
• Learn to cook your favorite Italian fare by taking a cooking class with a local
• Rent a Vespa and explore the city on two wheels

To accompany you on your trip to see the best that Rome has to offer, you’re also going to need the BEST accommodation in the BEST neighbourhoods! Be sure to check out where to stay in Rome before scrolling into the fun that awaits you below! Once you’ve done exploring the city, there are also heaps of day trips from Rome you can check out roo.

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#1 – The Roman Forum – One of Rome’s coolest historical sites!

• One of the most popular and recognizable landmarks in the city.
• If you enjoy history, then you’ll love this area.

Why it’s so awesome: This site was first built around 500 BC but it was enlarged several times over the years by various Roman leaders of the Roman Empire, including Julius Caesar and Augustus Caesar. It’s a large complex with lots of houses, cobblestoned streets, and temples, and exploring it could take all day!

What to do there: Make sure you go there with a guide, particularly if you’re not an expert on Roman history. Otherwise, you’ll find yourself wandering without any real idea of what you’re looking at.

Make sure you see the Circus Maximus, the Arch of Titus and Trajan’s Column too. They’re a little outside of the complex but are important parts of this venue’s history.

#2 – The Pantheon – A great place to see in Rome if you love architecture

• An ancient temple that was built on the site of an older temple.
• An architectural marvel.

Why it’s so awesome: This temple was built between 118 and 128 AD and was actually used as a burial site for some of Rome’s kings. It’s an architectural marvel and has often been called the world’s only architecturally perfect building. It’s also the best-preserved monument of imperial Rome, so if you want to understand this culture then you need to spend some time at this site looking at what they created.

What to do there: Make sure you look up once you enter the building as the oculus in the dome is open to the sky. This lets the sunlight filter in and fills the room with light in a way that’s arresting and highly practical.

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#3 – Piazza Navona – An awesome place to visit in Rome for half a day!

• One of the most popular sites in the city for tourists and locals.
• If you want a great photo, try taking one in front of this stunning fountain.
• The area around the fountain is filled with restaurants, shops and other tourist attractions and you could spend all day exploring them.

Why it’s so awesome: This oval-shaped Piazza Navona is perfect for tourists and locals. The famous square has a wide variety of shops, restaurants, gelaterias in the area and the buildings are stunning. Baroque art is on full display, with carved figures representing the world’s great rivers and prominent figures. No matter how much time you spend here, you’ll always find something else to do, see or eat!

What to do there: Explore the area. Make sure you check out the Via Della Pace, one of the city’s most beautiful streets, and take a picture in front of the fountain. Eat gelato at as many of the gelaterias as your stomach can handle and have a meal in a restaurant with an outdoor area so you can do some people watching. If you manage to do all of this, it will make for the absolute best day in Rome!

#4 – The Colosseum

• An instantly recognizable building.
• This venue has a long and gory history behind it.
• Great for that iconic photo of your trip to Rome!

Why it’s so awesome: The Colosseum has been in so many movies and photos that it’s easily recognized, even for people who aren’t interested in Roman history. It was built in the fourth century and was once used for gladiatorial games and fights that were as brutal as they were an accepted and celebrated part of Roman history.

What to do there: The Colosseum was neglected for centuries, which is why parts of it are falling down. But it’s still in remarkable shape despite that. Make sure you buy your tickets in advance because everyone wants to visit this venue. So, if you don’t buy advance tickets you’ll find yourself standing for hours in the hot sun.

Get a combined ticket that includes other popular tourist attractions like the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill, and you can skip the line and spend more time exploring this site.

#5 – The Vatican City – One of the most religious places to see in Rome

• Some of the city’s best artworks are contained in this small country.
• Make sure you visit the Sistine Chapel!

Why it’s so awesome: The Vatican City is the smallest country in the world, and it’s located right in the middle of a big city. It also contains some of the most stunning medieval and renaissance artwork and sculptures that you’ve ever seen. You could spend days in this area exploring all the rooms and buildings.

And if you want a great view of everything, go south of the Vatican City to the Castel Sant-Angelo. If you climb to the top of this building you’ll get some amazing views of the Vatican and the Tiber River. Some of Rome’s best hostels are located around this area too!

What to do there: While you’re in the Vatican City, make sure you check out the Sistine Chapel in the Vatican Museums . There’s a lot of hype about this attraction, but the artwork actually lives up to all the talk and perhaps is even better than you might expect. Make sure that you also have a look at the Raphael Rooms, which contain lots of stunning artworks and sculptures.

#6 – St. Peter’s Basilica

• An architectural masterpiece.
• One of the most important religious sites in the city.
• Inside the Basilica, you’ll find additional masterpieces.

Why it’s so awesome: St Peter’s Basilica is the first roman catholic church on this site was built in 349 AD over the tomb of the first pope but it was razzed, and the current version has been standing in its place since 1626. It’s one of Rome’s main tourist attractions in Rome and the domed top of this building is absolutely iconic and looks great in photographs.

What to do there: Make sure that you take a photo of yourself outside this architectural marvel in St Peter’s square just so your friends back home know that you were there. And then spend some time inside. You’ll see masterpieces like Bernini’s altarpiece and Michelangelo’s Pieta just to start.

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#7 – Trastevere – A must-visit place to visit in Rome on the weekend!

• This neighborhood has a fun bohemian vibe that travelers just love.
• There are lots of hidden shops here so make sure you take the time to really explore.
• Some of the best nightlife in the city is in this area.

Why it’s so awesome: The Trastevere neighborhood is one of the best places to wander, shop and people watch. You’ll find countless tiny boutique stalls, hidden alcoves, and handcrafts on these cobblestone streets. There are also some great bars as well, and there’s no better place in the city to stop for a drink and a chat.

What to do there: While you’re in the neighborhood, take a few hours and just explore. These old-style streets hide many mysteries and it’s only when you’re on foot and open to wandering down any open street that you’ll find them. And when you get tired, stop for a drink and a snack at one of the many bars. Lots of young Italians visit Rome on the weekend to go out for late-night drinks in this district.

#8 – The Trevi Fountain

• Throw in a coin to get a wish granted.
• This fountain is a baroque masterpiece.

Why it’s so awesome: There are so many buildings and monuments of historical and architectural significance in this city that it can be hard to choose a favorite. However, the Trevi Fountain of the most famous fountain in Rome, if not the world, and would be very high on that list.

This Baroque fountain was created by Nicola Salvi in the baroque style and it’s the perfect place for a selfie. Legend says that if you throw a coin in the fountain, you’re guaranteed to one day return to the Eternal City, so try it out!

What to do there: Throw a coin in the Trevi fountain, take a picture if you can around all the other tourists trying to do the same thing, and then grab a souvenir. This area tends to attract lots of street hawkers selling mementos, so take advantage of them. And if you want to see the fountain without the crowds, try going very early in the morning or late in the evening.

#9 – Galleria Borghese

• Contains the best baroque art in the world.
• A stunning garden is attached where you can wander and relax before you plunge back into the busy Roman streets.

Why it’s so awesome: This gallery is located in a villa that is staggeringly beautiful on its own. It was commissioned in the 17th century by Cardinal Scipione Borghese to house his treasures and now contains Baroque and Renaissance artwork from some of the greatest masters in the Baroque movement. You’ll see works by Antonio Canova, Bernini and Caravaggio during your wanderings in this gallery, so don’t miss out!

What to do there: This gallery contains the most stunning examples of Baroque art in the world, so make sure you spend some time there exploring the style. You’ll need to buy tickets ahead of time for the sessions, so get them early so you don’t miss out. And afterward, walk outside and explore the garden. This idyllic garden is filled with orange trees and flowers and is a lovely, relaxing place to recover from the busyness of the city.

#10 – Galleria Alberto Sordi – A great place in Rome if you love to shop!

• The perfect place for people who want to shop in one of the most stunning places in Europe!
• You’ll get a chance to experience Italy’s best and most popular designers in this venue.

Why it’s so awesome: The Galleria Alberto Sordi is a shopping center like no other. With stained-glass skylights and mosaic floors, it’s one of the most beautiful shopping centers in Europe, if not in the entire world. This shopping center is filled with Italian shops and designers, which will add a touch of exoticism to your shopping expedition.

What to do there: Have an Italian coffee at the Illy Kiosk and then shop! Find your own hidden gems in Rome . You’ll find lots of popular Italian shops in this area like Zara, Massimo Dutti, La Rinascente and mega bookstore La Feltrinelli. So go into every store and just see what catches your eye!

#11 – The Centrale Montemartini – Quite the quirky place in Rome!

• A museum with a difference!
• The old artwork seems to go surprisingly well with this building’s industrial setting.

Why it’s so awesome: You can’t spend time in the Eternal City without looking at the artwork available and this is one of the more unusual places to do it. This venue was chosen to house part of the collection from the Capitoline Museums in the late 1990s and it was an inspired choice. There’s nothing quite like seeing fauns and Apollos amongst the machinery of a decommissioned power station.

What to do there: Take lots of pictures and enjoy the combination of the past and the future. You’ll get to see ancient statues of Minervas, Bacchic revelers and Roman gods set against steel machinery and it’s an oddly interesting sight. This venue also hosts musical events occasionally, so make sure you check what’s on while you’re in the city if you want a really surreal experience.

#12 – Cimitero Acattolico

• A restful oasis in the middle of the city.
• This is actually a cemetery, so don’t spend time at this venue if you’re squeamish.

Why it’s so awesome: This is a place of calm and nature in the middle of the city. It’s also a cemetery, though you probably wouldn’t think so at first look. This venue is known as the Protestant Cemetery, but it also contains people from a wide variety of faiths, their final resting places nestled amongst the grass and trees.

What to do there: You’ll find lots of graves of notable persons from this past in this cemetery such as Percy Shelley, John Keats and Karl Brullov. But mostly, this is a place where you can enjoy some nature and have a short rest before you rejoin the city rush once more. Make sure you explore the newer section, which slopes up to the Aurelian Wall.

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#13 – Stadio Olimpico

• Home of the best football clubs in Rome.
• If you attend a game, you’ll finally get to see what all the fuss is about.
• The games and the chants used can get a bit risqué, so this isn’t a place for young children.

Why it’s so awesome: Football is huge in Europe and Rome is no exception. This stadium is home to the two best football clubs in the city, AS Roma and SS Lazio. The games between these two rivals are epic, but then any football game tends to be. And the competition doesn’t stay on the field either, the team’s supporters tend to compete to see who can come up with the rudest and most insulting chants and pyrotechnics.

What to do there: If you’re there in the right season, then make sure you catch a game. You’ll either be amused by the whole spectacle or shocked at just how seriously people take a game. But even if you aren’t there in the football season, this stadium is also the largest sports facility in Rome, and other sports are played there too. So, just see what’s going on and turn up to watch the madness!

Short on time and want to see as much as possible? Check out our sample itinerary for Rome before visiting!

#14 – Auditorium-Parco Della Musica – A great place to visit in Rome at night

• All the best music shows in the city are held at this venue.
• It also plays host to science festivals, a skating rink in winter, and all the biggest events in the city.

Why it’s so awesome: This is a beetle-shaped building that’s the center of Rome’s performing arts world. It hosts classical music and rock concerts, author meetings, Rome’s annual film festival and science exhibits. So, if you’re looking for something to do on a slow night, you’ll probably find it at this venue.

What to do there: There is always something going on at this venue. It’s the perfect place to have a night out with friends or on your own, exploring the shows and music that Rome loves.

#15 – Ostia Antica – One of the most underrated places to see in Rome.

• A chance to experience everyday life in ancient Rome without braving the lines at Pompeii!
• Good for a short day trip from the city.

Why it’s so awesome: People flock to Pompeii to see the people who were preserved beneath the soot and yet not too many people know that they can see the same thing at this port city. Ostia Antics was built during the 7th century BC. It was abandoned in the fifth century after being repeatedly sacked and the city itself was buried by river mud. This has left it perfectly preserved and ready to be explored!

What to do there: This is the perfect chance for you to see a perfectly preserved Roman town that has been frozen in time. And you won’t have to imagine the horror and the pain of the inhabitants either. Unlike Pompeii, this town was empty when disaster struck, which means no corpses curled in the streets. Instead, all you’ll get are amazing pieces of art, great architecture, and a strong impression of ordinary Roman life.

#16 – Orto Botanico – A beautiful outdoor place to visit in Rome

• A chance to enjoy some greenery in the heart of the city.
• The gardens are a living museum, with displays designed to entertain you and provide respite from the hot city.

Why it’s so awesome: There are 30 acres of greenery in these gardens and they were first planted in the 13th century by Pope Nicholas III. At the time, they were devoted to medicinal plants and citrus groves, but over time this has expanded to include a wide variety of plants amongst baroque stairs, waterfalls and exotic flowers.

What to do there: The best thing to do in this garden is to relax. Rome can be hot, dusty and dry, and you should take advantage of the chance to breathe in cool, wet air. But once you’ve had a chance to relax, make sure you take in the touching and smelling garden for the visually impaired. It’s an ingenious display that’s designed to help everyone enjoy nature’s bounty.

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#17 – Torre Argentina

• An abandoned temple complex that’s now a cat sanctuary.
• This building was part of the portico of Pompey, the structure where Julius Caesar was betrayed and murdered!

Why it’s so awesome: There’s nothing quite like seeing a famous, ancient Rome building fallen to ruin and used by cats, especially when the building has such a famous history. Everyone knows the story of Julius Caesar’s death upon the stone steps of the portico of Pompey. But if you want to see it, you’re going to have to line up behind Rome’s homeless feline population.

What to do there: After this site was excavated it was claimed by feral cats who are now looked after by volunteers. The cats are mostly ill or disabled in some way and the volunteers do their best to care for their special needs and to spay and neuter as many as possible to keep the city’s cat population under control.

You can watch the cats sunbathe from the street, and you’ll be surprised by how many there are. Or you can head to the underground office to volunteer, check out the gift shop, or donate to the cat’s continued care.

#18 – Quartiere Coppedè – A great place to see in Rome if you love architecture

• Architecturally stunning, quite literally like a fairy tale!
• You’ll get some amazing photographs in this area.

Why it’s so awesome: This is a strange and beautiful area of Rome within the Trieste district. The architecture is a fantastical mix of Ancient Roman and Greek, Medieval, Mannerist, Baroque and Art Nouveau.

This sounds like it would be overwhelming and ugly, but it’s actually stunningly beautiful and like being in a fairy tale. The combination was dreamed up by architect Coppede, and he worked on this area from 1919 until his death in 1927.

What to do there: Take a lot of pictures! You won’t quite believe the masterpieces you see in this area, and neither will anyone back home, so take pictures of everything that catches your eye as proof. This area is a little off the beaten path, so by spending time there, you’ll also be experiencing a part of Rome that most tourists never see!

#19 – The Dome Illusion – One of the most underrated places to see in Rome

• A quirky slice of history that looks great in photos.
• If you enjoy art, you’ll love this expertly created trick.

Why it’s so awesome: There are a lot of domes in Rome and it’s fun to see one that doesn’t actually exist. The Dome illusion is located at The Jesuit church of Saint Ignazio, which was originally supposed to have a dome.

After the designers ran out of money, painter Andrea Pozzo used perspective to paint the roof as if the dome was actually there! It’s a trick and a really good one, showing the artist’s mastery of his craft.

What to do there: Like most perspective drawings, you can only see the dome from certain angles, but it’s absolutely worth finding those angles. The dome painting is really well done, and when you’re in certain positions, you’ll swear that it’s actually there!

#20 – Santa Maria della Concezione Crypts

• A fascinating, if slightly creepy look at the past.
• Photographs aren’t allowed, so come prepared to remember all the details you can.
• Definitely not for children.

Why it’s so awesome: This crypt contains the bones of more than 4,000 monks who died between 1528 and 1870. It’s a creepy and infamous place, written by Mark Twin and spoken of by the Marquis de Sade. These monks weren’t buried. Instead, their bones were used to decorate the walls. This was supposed to be a reminder that death came to everything and so everyone should be prepared to face it. But these days, it’s a fascinating and slightly creepy sight.

What to do there: Stay away from this site if you don’t have a strong stomach. But if you do, make sure you explore the crypt. The sign at the entrance claims that “What you are now, we once were: what we are now, you shall be.” This is s sobering reminder of the purpose of the place.

Make sure you see the crypt of skulls, the crypt of leg bones and crypt of pelvises. Also, be aware that mummified monks are dressed in friar’s clothes and hung from the walls. And they’re still there, some of them incorporated into the electrical light system just to make things a little more surreal.

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#21 – Nuovo Mercato Esquilino

• An exciting market where you can get a range of amazing foods and produce.
• If you’re looking for the multicultural hub of the city, you can eat it here.

Why it’s so awesome: This is a lively and chaotic market in the city center that’s filled with sights, smells, and cultures from all around the world. And you can eat most of it too! If you’re getting tired of Italian food, this is the perfect place to come to see Italy’s version of some of the most exotic foods in the world from African fruit stalls, fishmongers and butchers.

What to do there: This is a place to wander around and enjoy the chaotic sights and sounds. If you’re interested in making your own meal, chances are that you’ll find some of the best ingredients in the city at this venue. And when you’re done, head over to nearby Mercato Centrale for something to eat.

#22 – Domus Romane

• This is a rare opportunity for you to see how the wealthy lived and played in the ancient city of Rome!
• You’ll get some fabulous photo opportunities at this site.

Why it’s so awesome: Everywhere you go in Rome you’ll be treading in the footsteps of the ancient Roman Empire and yet you’ll feel this even more in the Domus Romane. They’re located below street level and have only recently been found, excavated and opened to the public. It’s a rare chance to see a previously unknown side of ancient Rome and its fascinating civilization.

What to do there: The Domus Romane is located directly below Palazzo Vanentini and they’re now open to the public. Wander the intricately designed spaces. You’ll find beautiful mosaics, expensive marble flooring and amazing wall paintings, all of which reflect just how wealthy some parts of Roman society were.

#23 – San Luigi dei Francesi

• This church contains Caravaggio’s famous images from the life of St. Matthew.
• Make sure you do more than peer at the famous paintings because there’s a lot to see in this venue.

Why it’s so awesome: this is a small church built in 1589 for Rome’s French community. The outside is gaudy and striking, but it’s the inside that really catches people’s attention. There are two separate chapels at this location, each of them with its own appeal.

What to do there: Most people come to this church for one reason. They want to see Caravaggio’s masterpiece of light and shade in the funerary chapel of Metheiu Cointrel. But don’t just leave once you’ve taken this in. Make sure you also go across to the second chapel, which has a fresco by Domenichino of the life of St. Cecilia that’s just lovely and well worth seeing.

#24 – Pyramid of Cestius

• The only Egyptian pyramid out of Egypt.
• Built as part of Rome’s fascination with Egypt in 30 BC.

Why it’s so awesome: In 30 BC Rome was obsessed with Egypt and built two pyramids in the heart of their empire. Only one remains today, the Pyramid of Cestius. It was probably built between 18 and 12 BC and is 36 meters high. Built as a tomb for a wealthy Roman, the site was sacked a long time ago, so little else is known about the monument.

What to do there: This pyramid is actually located at the edge of a busy traffic intersection near an equally busy train station. This is a sign of how much the city has changed over the years. It was once well outside of the city center. You can only access the pyramid by special permission, but if you want to get a better view of the outside, go inside the Aurelian walls to the northwest side of the Protestant cemetery.

#25 – Galleria Sciarra – A nice non-touristy place to visit in Rome

• A chance to get away from the crowds and see something spectacular!
• Make sure you take plenty of photos of this area so you can show people back home.

Why it’s so awesome: This area is close to the Trevi Fountain and yet tourists never venture there. This is a shame because this small courtyard may be the most stunning in the city. It’s also a nice change from the history of the city, decorated with gorgeous frescos and colors in the Art Nouveau style. Built in the 19th century for a wealthy family, it was meant to be a shopping mall, but these plans fell through and the area was mostly forgotten.

What to do there: This area is absolutely stunning. The artist, Giuseppe Cellini, used his artwork to celebrate women at every stage of life and covered these four-story walls with gorgeous images of women against stunning landscapes.

There is a glass and iron ceiling, which allows light to spill into the area and onto the walls, highlighting the curls of color and floral designs. The walls are even more beautiful at night though, when artificial lights come on to give everything a golden glow.

#26 – Tazza d’Oro

• One of the most famous cafes in the city.
• Take part in the great tradition of coffee drinking in Rome.

Why it’s so awesome: In our opinion, what makes Rome one of the best cities in Europe is its coffee. Rome loves its coffee, so while you’re in the city you absolutely must try a cup the way they love it. You won’t find any Starbucks or Drip Coffee in the city, instead, you’ll find a shop that has turned this simple drink into an art form. There are two famous coffee chains in the city, Tazza d’Oro and Caffe Sant’Eustachi, and they compete wildly for the title of the best coffee around.

What to do there: If you love coffee then you absolutely must try the coffee in Rome. It isn’t uncommon for the locals to have at least 3 espressos a day, so when in Rome… With such a strong coffee culture, there are some rules surrounding this ritual too. Firstly, only drink cappuccinos in the morning. Secondly, if you ask for a latte then you’ll only get milk, so try a caffe macchiato, instead. This is a shot of espresso with milk.

#27 – The Stravinskij Bar

• One of the best places in the city to have a happy hour and a snack.
• This bar has a lovely courtyard, so if the weather is fine then try to snag a spot outside.

Why it’s so awesome: Rome loves happy hour and there are hundreds of bars all over the city that offer cocktails and snacks that are designed for the gap in between the end of work and dinner.

This provides a perfect opportunity for you to enjoy some classic cocktails and drinks in the mid-afternoon when you’re tired from exploring the city. The Stravinskij Bar is one of the most popular places for happy hour and they have a cocktail menu that’s probably the longest and the best in the city!

What to do there: The classic after-work drink in Rome is known as the Aperol Spritz, but you should also try the strawberry flavored wine Fragolino. When you buy a drink at happy hour in Rome you can have your choice of snacks as well in hundreds of bars all over the city. These usually range from potato chips to elaborate buffets. Some of the snacks are deceptively simple and delicious while others are elaborate, so make sure you bring your appetite with you.

#28 – Campo de’ Fiori – A perfect place to visit in Rome if you are on a budget!

• Rome’s fresh produce is of incredibly high quality, so make sure you sample some of it.
• This is the perfect place for some relaxed people watching.
• Shopping for fresh foods is an important part of the culture in Rome, so don’t miss out on seeing this part of their way of life.

Why it’s so awesome: If you enjoy cooking or just want to experience a little taste of what it’s like to live in Rome then you absolutely must visit a market. Shopping for fresh foods at small local markets is commonplace in this city, and no matter where you stay, you’ll see small markets pop up through the week. The Campo de’ Fiori market is one of the most popular in the city and operates every morning except Sunday.

What to do there: Shop of course! The quality of the fruits and vegetables at this market is absolutely amazing, which is probably why Italian food is so good as well. So if you want to be part of this tradition, wander the stalls and pick up some snacks and watch how the locals spend their mornings.

#29 – Giolitti

• You can’t go to Rome and not eat gelato!
• This venue serves old-style gelato that’s just delicious.
• Go more than once, so you can experience as many flavors as possible.

Why it’s so awesome: Italy is famous for its gelato and you’ll probably find yourself eating a lot of it while you’re in Rome. This location, just a short walk from the Pantheon, is one of the best places to get gelato that’s always top quality and delicious. It’s been around since the 1900s and serves dozens of flavors.

What to do there: The best gelato in Rome is a hotly contested topic in Rome and you can be part of the debate! Get your gelato to go and make sure you try as many flavors as possible. After all, it’s hot in Rome and gelato is the perfect way to cool down after a day of sightseeing!

#30 – MAXXI

• Don’t forget that Rome has modern art too!
• The building is unusual and a great draw for tourists too.

Why it’s so awesome: When you’re in Rome, you could be forgiven for thinking that they only have ancient Roman art. In reality, the city still has a strong artistic tradition and you can experience it at the MAXXI, which is one of the best venues for contemporary artwork. The MAXXI building is a sight too, made of glass, open spaces and staircases that seem to float!

What to do there: Give yourself a break from Roman art and experience the modern-day. You can’t help but admire the building, even if you find the staircases a little hair-raising, but have a look at the ever-changing displays of Italian art as well. It will give you a snapshot of modern Rome that you wouldn’t get at the ancient art exhibits.

#31 – Gianicolo

• One of the best places to get a panoramic view of the city.
• An awesome spot for photographers!

Why it’s so awesome: Rome is surrounded by seven famous hills and while Gianicolo isn’t one of them, it is the best place to take in the whole city. This is a prime makeout spot for Roman lovers at dusk because of the incredible views, and you’ll also get some amazing shots of the entire city during the day or night.

What to do there: You can hike to the top of the hill but it’s a long and winding path so it’s usually best to go by car or motorbike. While you’re up there, take in the panoramic views. You’ll be able to see all of Rome’s most popular monuments such as the Spanish Steps and get pictures that will encompass everything you’ve seen and experienced while in the city.

#32 – Tesstacio – Cool place to see in Rome with friends!

• The best nightlife in the city is in this area.
• Once a working-class neighborhood that’s now filled with bars and nightclubs.

Why it’s so awesome: Romans love to party and you should make sure that you experience this side of the culture while you’re in the city. The neighborhood of Tesstacio is the center of Roman nightlife, with more bars and nightclubs than you could visit in a single night. It’s the perfect place to spend an evening bar hopping or going to clubs.

What to do there: Take some friends with you and just enjoy the night. The party goes on until dawn in this neighborhood and there are lots of bars to explore. Just make sure that you don’t wear stilettos because the streets are lined with cobblestones. A couple of drinks and they’d be impossible to navigate in spiky heeled shoes.

#33 – The Sistine Chapel

• One of the most beautiful and recognizable chapels in the world.
• Something that everyone should see, at least once in their lives.

Why it’s so awesome: The Sistine Chapel is iconic. Located in the Vatican City, there’s a lot of art in this chapel with the most famous piece being the ceiling mural. Painted by Michelangelo in 1508, the mural was so difficult that it actually damaged the famous painter’s eyes. Fortunately, he recovered enough to come back later and paint other parts of the chapel, so make sure you experience more than just the ceiling.

What to do there: A lot of artwork was commissioned for this chapel and you should make sure that you see it all. The outside of the chapel is actually fairly plain and bland, but inside are masterpieces completed by Rosselli and Botticelli. The highlight is, of course, the ceiling, which depicts scenes from Genesis in grand, stunning style. It might hurt your neck to stand looking up at it for a long time, but it’s definitely worth the effort.

#34 – Santa Maria della Vitoria

• The famous chapel from Dan Brown’s book, Angels and Demons.
• A fantastic example of Baroque art.
• This is a small chapel, so it can get crowded in the peak tourist months.

Why it’s so awesome: This chapel was made famous by Angels and Demons which is why it’s often crowded with fans of the book or the movie. But don’t let this dissuade you because it’s absolutely stunning in its own right. In particular, the images of Bernini’s Ecstasy of Saint Teresa are something that you’ll never forget.

What to do there: There are always crowds in this chapel, mostly because of the movie connection, but it’s worth braving them to see the art on offer. Make sure you spend some time looking at the Ecstasy of Saint Theresa, it’s probably the most stunning and detailed piece of art that you’ll ever see.

#35 – Bascilica di San Clemente – One of the most incredible free places to go to in Rome

• A literal nesting doll of small churches.
• An ideal location for anyone who loves architecture.

Why it’s so awesome: This venue is a second-century pagan temple that contains a fourth-century church that’s underneath a 12th-century church. This place is full of different types of history and it’s fascinating to see how different times build upon the ruins and foundations of the past. This venue is also fairly unknown in the city, so you should be able to explore it in relative peace.

What to do there: Enter the church from the street level and then take the stairs down to the other church and the temple. When you enter the site, ignore the beggars at the door who often tell people that they’re affiliated with the church and try to claim an entrance fee. It’s free to enter the street level church (amazing, considering Rome can be quite expensive ) but there is a small fee to go down to the lower levels, which is well worth the cost.

#36 – Porta Portese – A great place in Rome if you love to shop!

• If you’d like to pick up a bargain, this is where to do it.
• Perfect for the fashionista who like to wear their Roman souvenirs.
• Be aware of pickpockets and keep your valuables close to you at all times.

Why it’s so awesome: This is a Sunday morning market that runs from 6am to around 2pm that sells everything from books to antiques. But its main focus is both old and new clothes. This has a distinct flea market vibe, so make sure you come ready to rummage around to find a bargain.

What to do there: Watch your valuables in this area as pickpockets are common, but apart from that just enjoy the spectacle. And make sure you bargain for the goods you want, that’s what the locals do and it’s the only way to get the best price! This is also a good place to find somewhere to sit and people watch, as you’ll get to see tourists and the locals alike enjoying themselves.

#37 – The Spanish Steps & Piazza di Spagna

• A great place for that iconic photograph of Rome.
• Located in one of the busiest tourist areas in Rome, so come expecting a crowd.

Why it’s so awesome: The Spanish steps get their name from the nearby Spanish Embassy. Walking up them allows you to walk in the footsteps of some of the greatest writers in history as well as the ancient Romans who created the site. Balzac and Byron both claimed inspiration from this site and maybe you will too!

What to do there: This is a great place for people watching and everyone goes to Piazza di Spagna to see the Spanish Steps. The area is especially beautiful in spring when flanked by azaleas, but the crowds can also be overwhelming.

Going at night is a good option if you don’t like the crowds as there will be fewer people there. Get a coffee from one of the many restaurants in Piazza di Spagna, find a spot near or on the steps, and just people watch for a while. You’ll see a fascinating array of different people all there to experience the magic of this iconic landmark. And if you have the energy then climb up to the top because the views from there are spectacular.

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Find out what people want to know about the best places to visit in Rome

What should I not miss in Rome?

You cannot visit Rome without taking a trip to the seventh wonder of the world, The Colosseum.

What are 2 tourist attractions in Rome I must visit?

The Colosseum and The Pantheon are two monuments in Rome you should not miss.

What is the most visited place in Rome?

The Pantheon is the most visited place in Rome with over 8 million tourists per year.

What is the most important place in Rome?

The most important place in Rome is the Colosseum, which is the largest amphitheater in the world. Vatican City, home of the Catholic Church, is also very important and is connected to Rome.

Like any other city on the planet, Rome has its share of history, culture, and amazing food. But Rome’s history and culture date back millennia, so it’s no wonder this is one of the most visited capitals in the world. THey have a wealth of great Airbnbs there too!

Sure, there are a few pickpockets, but by exercising a little caution, and following my tips for your trip, you’ll have a safe and incredible trip.

And you’ll get to see all those amazing sights that you’ve only heard about or seen on television before. So have fun!

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Home » Travel Guides » Italy » 25 Best Things to Do in Rome (Italy)

25 Best Things to Do in Rome (Italy)

Rome stands as one of the finest and oldest cities in the world. The history of Rome spans over 2500 years and it has been a center of power, politics, culture and development since its inception. Creation of the city is steeped in legend and mythology and there are various different accounts of how this majestic place was built. Various Roman emperors have ruled mighty Rome and this is the place where the colossal Roman Empire grew from.

As time progressed, various monuments, palaces and religious buildings have been constructed in the city and these now stand as beautiful tourist attractions and a reminder of the cities glorious past. Rome is consistently ranked as one of the top tourist destinations in Europe and with sights such as the Colosseum and the Vatican , it is easy to see why.

Lets explore the best things to do in Rome :

1. Colosseum

This mighty structure is one of the most renowned and iconic landmarks in the world and a trip to Rome would not be complete without visiting the Colosseum.

Also known as the Flavian Amphitheatre, the Colosseum was constructed between 70-80 AD and at its peak was estimated to hold 80,000 spectators.

This building was used to hold game, gladiator tournaments and other forms of entertainment and would regularly be attended by the Roman Emperors.

Located to the south west of the main terminus train station, the Colosseum is easily accessible and has a metro station in close proximity.

Marvel at this famous structure from all angles, and ensure that you brave the queues and step inside to truly appreciate the enormity of this ancient place of celebration.

Get skip-the-line tickets :  Rome: Colosseum, Roman Forum, Palatine Hill Priority Tickets

2. St Peter’s Square

Rome holds a small country within a country – The Vatican.

This independent state is one of the most important religious sites in the world and St. Peter’s Square is an iconic place where many significant events have taken place.

Located at the front of the Vatican state, the square is actually circular and is framed by two huge sets of colonnades – Standing on these columns are beautiful statues of various religious figures and previous popes.

In the centre is a imposing obelisk which was actually taken from Nero’s Circus and looks Egyptian rather than Roman.

At the far end of the square stands the iconic St Peter’s Basilica and in front of this a set of chairs are usually set out for papal ceremonies.

Take in the enormity of the square, see the crowds of people hoping to catch a glimpse of the Pope and use this as a starting point to explore the Vatican.

Top rated tour available : Castel Sant’Angelo and St. Peter’s Square Tour

3. St. Peter’s Basilica

Possibly the most recognizable and celebrated religious building in the world, St. Peter’s Basilica stands as a true triumph to the power and decadence of the catholic religion and it is held as one of the holiest shrines for its followers.

Standing at the far end of St. Peter’s square, the Basilica has a beautifully designed front facade and is crowned with statues of the Apostles and Jesus.

Inside the Basilica, the architecture and decoration is simply divine and it is regarded as one of the most beautiful buildings in the world.

You will be amazed at the sheer amount of decoration and detail, and how the light falls in stunning rays at certain points during the day.

Both Michelangelo and Bernini contributed to the design and you can see their handiwork in the immense dome and stunning Gloria sculpture.

Don’t forget to climb to the top of the dome to see an aerial view of St. Peter’s Square. On this guided tour of St. Peter’s Square and Basilica, climb to the upper level of the Dome and see the panoramic views of Rome, then go underground to admire the historic grottoes.

4. The Pantheon

The mighty Pantheon stands as one of the best preserved ancient Roman buildings in the world and is one of Rome’s most famous attractions.

Constructed in 118 AD by emperor Hadrian, the building that stands today was actually built on the site where an earlier temple stood that was commissioned by Agrippa.

At the front of the building stands a rectangular porch lined with huge columns and a dedication to Agrippa on the triangular pediment.

The interior features a magnificent dome that has a series of stone patterns and a central coffer that allows light to spill through.

Located in the center of Rome on the Piazza della Rotonda, the Pantheon should be a true highlight and is another must visit.

5. Trevi Fountain

There are not many other fountains in the world as lavishly decorated and sculptured as the Trevi fountain.

Constructed in 1762 by Nicola Salvi, the fountain pays tribute to the Roman God Oceanus who can be seen riding his chariot pulled by Tritons and taming several Hippocamps.

The detail of the sculptures is simply wonderful and the whole facade and fountain are a true work of art.

It has become a tradition to throw coins into the water over your shoulder for good luck although trying to do so next to hundreds of other tourists might prove difficult! Located in close proximity to the Pantheon and Quirinale palace, this fountain should not be passed up on when walking through the streets of Rome.

6. Spanish Steps

Located in the Piazza di Spagna and the Piazza Trinita dei Monti, the 135 Spanish Steps were constructed in 1725 to span the gap and slope between these two popular squares.

Each of the 135 steps features a wide stone ledge and are framed by stone walls.

At the top of the steps you can find a large crucifix obelisk and many inscriptions carved into the stone.

At the bottom of the steps, the Piazza di Spagna is spacious and contains a variety of shops and cafes.

Alternatively, at the top of the stairs is the Trinita dei Monti church which in itself is a fine attraction.

Included in : Fountains and Squares Small-Group Walking Tour

7. Roman Forum

Possibly one of the most important Roman ruins in Italy, the Roman Forum is an ancient site that consists of many ruins that were once the centre of Roman public and political life.

Various temples, squares and arches stood here including the temples of Saturn, Titus and Vesta and the Arch of Severus.

Much of these structures still stands today and you can still see some of the arches and building foundations and walls.

Located next to the Colosseum and Altar of the Fatherland, the Roman Forum really is an important site for your consideration.

Tickets can be bought for entry to both the Forum and the Colosseum and it is advised to allow ample time to properly explore the ruins and learn about the history of this place.

8. Sistine Chapel

Part of the Vatican museum complex, the Sistine Chapel is one of the most renowned religious chapels in the world and has a stunning amount of detail and iconography.

Situated in the Apostolic Palace in the Vatican City, the Sistine Chapel was extensively restored in the 1400’s and the place where the papal enclave takes place – It is here that a new pope is selected.

The Sistine Chapel is particularly famous for its extensive and detailed decorations including the Last Judgement fresco by Michelangelo and the ceiling artwork.

These two magnificent pieces are artwork are considered some of the most influential and important in religious history.

Ensure you dedicate plenty of time to view this astonishing structure and the wonders held within.

Combo ticket available : Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel Entrance Ticket

9. Vatican Museums

This treasure trove of classical and historical artwork has been built up over many centuries by various popes and includes some of the most important pieces of artwork in the world.

Located within the confines of the Vatican state, the museums hold over 70,000 pieces of artwork.

A dual ticket can be purchased to see both the Sistine Chapel and the museums and it is advised to devote enough time to see both properly.

Split into several different section, the museums include the Museo Pio-Clementino, the Museum Chiaramonti, the Museo Gregoriano Etrusco and the Museo Gregoriano Egiziano each of which contains different artworks and themes.

Notable piece include the Transfiguration by Raphael, the Entombment of Christ by Caravaggio and the breathtaking gallery of maps.

10. Piazza Navona

Built on the site of the stadium of Domitian, the Piazza Navona was built in the 15th century and has remained a popular attraction ever since.

Located in close proximity to the Pantheon and the Trevi Fountain, the square is a great place to visit whilst walking through the city center.

This large square is usually full of artists and street vendors and the surrounding buildings frame the open space perfectly.

Notable elements of the square include the Fontana del Moro and Fountain of Neptune with their fantastic sculptures, the Palazzo Braschi, the Palazzo Pamphilj and the Saint Agnese in Agone church.

11. Castle Saint Angelo

Also known as the Mausoleum of Hadrian, the Castle Saint Angelo is a circular fort and castle complex that was once the tallest building in Rome.

Created in 129 AD, the castle is truly ancient and was originally intended to serve as a Mausoleum for the Emperor.

As time progressed, the castle became part of the Vatican state and was connected to St.

Peter’s Basilica via a huge corridor named the Passetto di Borgo.

Today the castle stands as a museum and contains wonderful exhibits about the history of the structure throughout history.

It is also possible to climb to the top of the castle ramparts for fantastic views across to St. Peter’s square and the city of Rome.

12. Palatine Hill

Palatine Hill is one of the most ancient areas in modern Rome and is the central most hill in the Tiber region.

Standing 40 metres above the historical Roman Forum it provides a fantastic viewing position and from here you can see the expanse of Rome laid out before your eyes.

In Roman mythology, this is the location where the legendary Romulus and Remus were supposedly found who then went on to build the city of Rome.

Several structures still stand on this site today including the Flavian Palace and the Temple of Cybele.

Admission to the Roman Forum includes access to Palatine Hill so ensure you make the climb and visit this fantastic viewpoint.

13. Galleria Borghese

Situated in the Borghese Villa complex, the Galleria Borghese is an important art museum that contains a myriad of fine paintings, sculptures and antiques.

Established in 1903, the Borghese complex is found in the northern part of the inner city next to the Via Pinciana road.

The impressive building has a beautiful and ornate front facade that has many stone statues and decoration.

Spread across twenty different rooms, the extensive Borghese collection includes works by Raphael, Caravaggio, Rubens and Titan.

Allow ample time to view the masterpieces on display here and also the magnificent Borghese Villa gardens.

Book online : Borghese Gallery Ticket with Escorted Entrance

14. Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore

Rome is packed full of fantastic religious and historical buildings and the Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore is one such structure.

Listed as a Basilica Major, it is one of the largest churches in Rome and is located in the Piazza of the same name.

The front face of this magnificent building features a central array of stone columns topped with statues and many inscriptions.

Furthermore there is also a large bell tower that rises above the surrounding buildings.

Whilst the outside is stunning in its own right, interior is simply breathtaking and features a huge amount of gold decoration, fresco’s and detailed paintings both on the walls and ceilings.

Of particular interest is the Borghese chapel that features some beautiful paintings and gold sculptures.

15. Villa Borghese Gardens

Located within the Borghese Villa complex, the gardens of the same name are a true triumph and provide a welcomed respite from the abundance of historical architecture found in Rome.

As the third largest park in Rome, the gardens cover just under 200 acres of land and contain the Borghese Gallery and the Gallery of National Modern Art.

The garden contains various sections including the Casino Borghese that contains sculptures by Bernini, the Villa Giulia that contains the Etruscan Museum and the remnants of other villas too.

Furthermore you can also find various paths and trails that lead through the extensive arrangement of plant life and trees, and landscaped areas of garden with flower arrangements, fountains and beautiful bodies of water.

16. Trastevere

This ancient part of Rome is considered to be one of the few places where you can see authentic Roman life and get a real feel for the city and how its residents live.

Located on the west of the River Tiber, Trastevere is the 13th rione of Rome and is packed full of narrow cobbled streets and character.

Ancient houses line the winding streets and many pubs, restaurants, cafes and bars can be found here too.

It is not uncommon to see washing hanging out between the streets and for the locals to be shouting to each other from building to building.

This is Rome at its most unabashed and simplistic form.

Visit Trastevere for a real slice of culture and take to the streets at night to enjoy some lively nightlife.

Related tour : 4-Hour Traditional Food Tour and Wine Tasting

17. Altar of the Fatherland

Another colossal monument located in the heart of Rome, the Altar of the Fatherland is dedicated to King Victor Emmanuel who was the first king of unified Italy.

This large stone monument is located in close proximity to the Colosseum and the Pantheon.

At the front of the monument stands a large bronze statue of Emmanuel and many other stone sculptures.

The front facade features a row of ornate columns and is also highly decorated.

At the base of the monument there is also an interesting museum that is dedicated to the unification of Italy and the early years of its history.

18. Ponte Sant Angelo

The bridge of Saint Angelo spans the epic River Tiber and creates a footpath between the Castel Sant’Angelo and the near side of the river.

Opening up directly from the front of the castle, this bridge has great symmetry and it is considered one of the most beautiful and decorative bridges in Rome.

Created with a face of travertine marble, the bridge stands out against the sometimes murky colors of the Tiber and offers some fantastic photographic opportunities.

A main feature of the bridge is the 10 angel statues that sit at intervals on the top of the ramparts; these angels have fantastic detail and each is carrying a different object of significance.

Book online: Castel Sant’Angelo with Reserved Ticket

19. Quirinale Palace

This stately structure and complex stands as one of the official residencies of the current President of Italy and is located on the Quirinal Hill in the centre of Rome.

In total, the complex spans 110,500 square metres and is one of the largest palaces in the world.

Inside the main part of the palace are a series of richly decorated rooms, courtyards, staircases and chapels.

A guided tour is possible of the palace and there is also several exhibitions that detail its history and use.

The Quirinale gardens are also considered quite spectacular with many plants, trees, flower arrangements and water features.

20. Piazza del Popolo

The Piazza del Popolo is one of the finest squares in the world and literally translates as square of the people.

Surrounded by historical structures such as the Chiesa di Santa Maria dei Miracoli, the Porta del Popolo gateway and the Basilica Parrocchiale, the squares offers a great deal to explore.

To the immediate east of the square lies the Pincio hill which offers fantastic views of the Piazza and of Rome.

In the center of the Piazza stands the huge Popolo Obelisk which like the one present in St. Peter’s Square was moved from Egypt.

Several ornate fountains frame the square including the Fontana del Netuno and the Fontana dell Obelisco.

This is a great place to relax and soak up the scenery or enjoy the views from the Pincio.

21. Arch of Constantine

Dedicated to the great Emperor Constantine to celebrate his victory at the Battle of Milvian Bridge, the Arch of Constantine is the largest of its kind in Rome and stands next to the Colosseum.

Built in 315 AD it is among the oldest structures in the city and still retains a great amount of its original detail and artwork.

Standing at 21m high it is clearly visible from the surrounding areas and is one of the most iconic landmarks in Rome.

The artwork and sculptures present on the arch are an amalgamation of many different themes and combine together to form a wonderful display of ancient history.

Some plinths display soldiers, other show prisoners and scenes of war, whilst others contain elaborate inscriptions.

When visiting the Colosseum, ensure to take ample time to admire this fantastic arch.

Included in: Vatican City and Ancient Rome Full-Day Small Group Tour

22. Basilica di San Clemente

This is one of the lesser known churches in central Rome but is just as opulent and historical as the likes of St. Peter’s Basilica.

Listed as a Basilica Minor, the church is actually split into three distinct sections that span a time frame of some two thousand years.

The original basilica was created in the 2nd century and the current form was completed in 1123 AD. Whilst the exterior of the church is nothing special, the interior is quit spectacular and features a huge amount of decoration and artwork.

In particular, the high altar and ceiling of the second basilica feature some intricate artwork and fresco’s, laced with gold trimmings and an abundance of color.

Located in close proximity to the Colosseum, this church is a great establishment to visit.

Discover the Basilica and it’s underground: St. Clemente & Quattro Coronati Church Small Group Tour

23. Piazza Venezia

Considered a central thoroughfare and hub in the city of Rome, the Piazza Venezia is one of the busiest parts of the city and forms an intersection for several of the main roads.

Located at the bottom of Capitoline Hill, several important streets disperse from here including the Fori Imperiali that leads to the Colosseum.

Important monuments located on the square include the Piazza Venezia, the Altar of the Fartherland and Trajan’s Column.

24. Villa Farnesina

Located in the historical Trastevere district of Rome, the Villa Farnesina is a fantastic example of a Renaissance villa complex and is considered a fine example of architecture and design.

Constructed in the 16th century for Agostina Chigi, this spacious villa changed ownership over the years and now serves as a museum.

Aside from the amazing architecture, the villa also features some beautiful and detailed fresco’s created by the renowned Renaissance artists Raphael.

Each room is packed full of iconic artwork and sumptuous detail and is a true glory to behold.

Private tour : Farnesina Gallery 3-Hour Private Tour

25. Fontana dei Quattro Fiumi

This ornate and detailed fountain is located in the center of the Piazza Navona and was designed by the legendary sculpture, Gian Lorenzo Bernini.

Created for Pope Innocent X in 1651, the fountain resides outside the Pamphili Palace which served as a family residence for the Pope.

The fountain depicts the four river gods and in the centre stands a large Egyptian Obelisk.

Each of the four statues pays tribute to one of the major rivers in the world – The Nile, The Danube, The Ganges and the Rio de la Plata.

25 Best Things to Do in Rome (Italy):

• St Peter’s Square
• St. Peter’s Basilica
• The Pantheon
• Trevi Fountain
• Spanish Steps
• Roman Forum
• Sistine Chapel
• Vatican Museums
• Piazza Navona
• Castle Saint Angelo
• Palatine Hill
• Galleria Borghese
• Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore
• Villa Borghese Gardens
• Altar of the Fatherland
• Ponte Sant Angelo
• Quirinale Palace
• Piazza del Popolo
• Arch of Constantine
• Basilica di San Clemente
• Piazza Venezia
• Villa Farnesina
• Fontana dei Quattro Fiumi

23 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Rome

Written by Barbara Radcliffe Rogers Updated Dec 25, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

In a city so filled with icons of antiquity and the Christian faith, it's hard to know where to go first. Of course, your own interests will govern your choices, but there are certain sites that are almost obligatory landmarks of Italy and top attractions in the world , such as the Colosseum and the Pantheon.

A word of caution: try to vary your experiences as you explore Rome, so that you don't visit too many ancient sites or churches in a row. And intersperse these more serious attractions with a few that are simply tourist icons: the Spanish Steps and that place all tourists must go to toss in their coin, the Trevi Fountain.

Rome is so big that it can overwhelm you, so even the most devoted sightseer needs to take some time to kick back and enjoy la dolce vita in a park or sidewalk café.

You'll be able to choose the best places to visit with this handy list of the top attractions in Rome.

1. The Colosseum and the Arch of Constantine

2. vatican city, 3. the pantheon, 4. roman forum, 5. trevi fountain, 6. vittorio emanuele ii monument, 7. centro storico & the spanish steps, 8. via del corso, rome's shopping street, 9. santa maria maggiore, 10. piazza navona, 11. piazza del popolo & santa maria del popolo, 12. palatine hill, 13. villa borghese gallery and gardens, 14. castel sant'angelo national museum, 15. trastevere, 16. capitoline museum, 17. baths of caracalla, 18. san giovanni in laterano (basilica of st. john lateran), 19. the catacombs and via appia antica (appian way), 20. palazzo doria pamphilj, 21. basilica of san clemente, 22. domus aurea: nero's golden house, 23. terme di diocleziano (baths of diocletian national museum), where to stay in rome for sightseeing, tips and tours: how to make the most of your visit to rome, rome, italy - climate chart, more things to see and do in rome.

As the Eiffel Tower is to Paris, the silhouette of the Flavian Amphitheatre is to Rome. The largest structure left to us by Roman antiquity , the Colosseum still provides the model for sports arenas - present-day football stadium design is clearly based on this oval Roman plan.

The building was begun by Vespasian in AD 72, and after his son Titus enlarged it by adding the fourth story, it was inaugurated in the year AD 80 with a series of splendid games. The Colosseum was large enough for theatrical performances, festivals, circuses, or games, which the Imperial Court and high officials watched from the lowest level, aristocratic Roman families on the second, the populace on the third and fourth.

Beside the Colosseum stands the Arch of Constantine , a triumphal arch erected by the Senate to honor the emperor as "liberator of the city and bringer of peace" after his victory in the battle of the Milvian Bridge in 312.

Lines are long and move slowly, so you can save time by joining the Skip the Line: Ancient Rome and Colosseum Half-Day Walking Tour and have a knowledgeable guide, as well.

Author's Tip: For an unforgettable experience, especially in the heat of mid-summer, visit the Colosseum on a special night tour. Not only is it cooler then, but the monument is magical with its interior bathed in golden light.

• Read More: Visiting the Colosseum: Highlights, Tips & Tours

The Vatican is the smallest independent state in the world , with an area of less than half a square kilometer, most of it enclosed by the Vatican walls.

Inside are the Vatican palace and gardens, St. Peter's Basilica , and St. Peter's Square , an area ruled by the Pope, supreme head of the Roman Catholic Church. This compact space offers a lot of things to see, between its museums and the great basilica itself.

Inside St. Peter's Basilica is Michelangelo's masterpiece, Pieta , along with statuary and altars by Bernini and others.

The unquestioned highlight of the Vatican museums is the Sistine Chapel , whose magnificent frescoed ceiling is Michelangelo's most famous work.

In the Vatican Palace are the Raphael Rooms ; the Borgia Apartments ; the Vatican Library , and a number of museums that include the Picture Gallery, Museum of Secular Art, Etruscan Museum, and others. The collections you can see in these cover everything from papal coaches to 20th-century art reflecting religious themes.

Ticket lines for the Vatican's attractions are incredibly long, and you can spend several hours waiting in line. To save time, purchase a Skip the Line: Vatican Museums with St. Peter's, Sistine Chapel, and Small-Group Upgrade tour in advance. This three-hour tour allows you to bypass the long lines and walk straight into the museums with a knowledgeable guide. Headsets are provided, and you can choose from several different departure times or upgrade to an evening or small-group tour.

The Pantheon - the best-preserved monument of Roman antiquity - is remarkably intact for its 2000 years. This is despite the fact that Pope Gregory III removed the gilded bronze roof tiles, and Pope Urban VIII ordered its bronze roof stripped and melted down to cast the canopy over the altar in St. Peter's and cannons for Castel Sant'Angelo.

The Pantheon was rebuilt after damage by fire in AD 80, and the resulting brickwork shows the extraordinarily high technical mastery of Roman builders. Its 43-meter dome, the supreme achievement of Roman interior architecture , hangs suspended without visible supports – these are well hidden inside the walls – and its nine-meter central opening is the building's only light source.

The harmonious effect of the interior is a result of its proportions: the height is the same as the diameter.

Although the first Christian emperors forbade using this pagan temple for worship, in 609 Pope Boniface IV dedicated it to the Virgin and all the Christian martyrs, and since then, it has become the burial place of Italian kings (Victor Emmanuel II is in the second niche on the right) and other famous Italians, including the painter, Raphael.

Author's Tip: If you visit the Pantheon on a rainy day, be careful of the floor in the center. There is no umbrella over the hole in the roof, and the floor can get very slippery when wet.

• Read More: Visiting the Pantheon in Rome: Highlights, Tips & Tours

Walking through the forum, now in the middle of a throbbing modern city, is like stepping back two millennia into the heart of ancient Rome. Although what survives of this center of Roman life and government shows only a small fraction of its original splendor, the standing and fallen columns, its triumphal arches, and the remains of its walls still impress, especially when you consider that for centuries, the history of the Forum was the history of the Roman Empire and of the Western world.

Roman political and religious life was centered here, along with the courts, markets, and meeting places. After the seventh century, the buildings fell into ruin, and churches and fortresses were built amid the ancient remains. Its stones were quarried for other buildings and it was not until the 18th and 19th centuries that systematic excavations brought the ancient buildings to light from under a 10-meter layer of earth and rubble.

Highlights of the Roman Forum are the Temple of Antoninus Pius, the Temple of Castor and Pollux, the Temple of Saturn, the Arch of Septimus Severus, the Curia, the Temple of Vesta, and the Arch of Titus.

Tip for Parents: If you're traveling in Rome with children, unless they are fascinated by the Romans, the Forum might be a place best seen from above, instead of by walking through its five acres of largely ruined buildings. It is one of Rome's most popular and important tourist attractions, but it's a lot for kids to take in and it doesn't have the lure of the Colosseum's tales of lions and gladiators.

One of the city's most popular tourist attractions, this 17th-century masterpiece has been immortalized in films until it is almost a required visit. Throwing a coin (not three) into the Trevi Fountain (Fontana di Trevi) is a tradition that is supposed to assure your return to Rome.

Rome's largest fountain, Fontana di Trevi is supplied by an aqueduct originally constructed by Agrippa, the great art patron of the first century BC, to bring water to his baths. The fountain was created for Pope Clement XII between 1732 and 1751 by Nicolò Salvi, and built against the rear wall of the palace of the Dukes of Poli.

It depicts the sea god Oceanus (Neptune), with horses, tritons, and shells. The water swirls around the figures and the artificial rocks and collects in a large basin, always filled with coins.

What happens to all that money? Twice a year it is gathered using long-handled brushes, and donated to Caritas, Rome's Catholic charity.

It's ironic that this grandiose monument, considered one of the national symbols of Italy, is rarely admired by Romans, who liken it to a wedding cake or a giant typewriter. Like it or not, the vast neo-classical structure crowns Capitoline Hill, the symbolic center of ancient Rome, overlooking the later city across Piazza Venezia.

Built between 1885 and 1935, it is a monument to King Vittorio Emanuele II, the first king of the unified Italy, represented here in an equestrian statue. Italy's tomb of the unknown soldier is here, along with a museum of the Italian unification. A lift will take you to the topmost terrace for 360-degree views of Rome.

Address: Piazza Venezia, Rome

Take a look at a Rome tourist map, and you'll see one area so filled with things to do that it's hard to read the street names. This is the Centro Storico, the historic center of Rome , with so many art-filled churches, resplendent palaces, and lively squares that you could spend your whole vacation strolling its ancient streets and lanes.

Spend some time just to absorb the neighborhood's atmosphere instead of going from one of its must-see sights to the next. Along with Piazza Navona , the Trevi Fountain , and the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore , stop in less well-known churches, such as Santa Maria del Popolo, where you'll find works by Bernini and Caravaggio.

Pause at the Spanish Steps, the flight of irregular stairs and landings that lead up to the French church of Trinità dei Monti. The stairs take their name from Piazza di Spagna , the plaza at their base and one of Rome's most typical squares. The stairs have long been a favorite haunt of tourists.

You can no longer channel your inner Audrey Hepburn and eat gelato on the steps as she did in Roman Holiday . Sitting or eating on the steps is banned to protect them after a complete cleaning and restoration, and the ban is enforced.

The boat-shaped fountain at the foot of the Spanish Steps is known as the Barcaccia and was created by Pietro Bernini, father of the great Baroque architect Gian Lorenzo Bernini.

Via Condotti , leading southwest from Piazza di Spagna, is Rome's most fashionable shopping street , where the Caffè Greco is famous for the artists, writers, and musicians who have frequented it.

Address: Piazza di Spagna, Rome

Marking a straight line from Piazza the Piazza Venezia to Piazza del Popolo, Via del Corso is Rome's Main Street . Lined with shops and places to eat, and a few palaces housing art museums, including the magnificent Palazzo Doria Pamphilj. Work is underway to restore and re-design the century-old landmark Alberto Sordi Gallery, which will reopen as Agorà, with fewer shops and more public space for arts and entertainment.

While the shops are mostly name brands, you'll find some designer boutiques here and on the radiating side streets. Not all of Italy's fashion comes from Milan's catwalks, and fashionistas will find more high-end boutiques and prestigious names on streets around Piazza di Spagna, especially Via Venizia and Via dei Condotti .

Between Piazza del Popolo, at the end of Via del Corso, and Piazza di Spagna, look for antique shops and art galleries on Via del Babuino . To mix charm and cinema history with shopping, and find small shops and galleries on the parallel Via Margutta .

Note to Movie Fans: Federico Fellini lived on Via Margutta and Gregory Peck's apartment scenes in Roman Holiday were filmed at No. 51.

One of the most majestic of the churches in Rome , Santa Maria Maggiore has stood here since the fourth-century Pope Liberius had a vision of the Virgin directing him to build a church where snow fell the following day. Although it was August, snow did fall on the Esquiline hill the next morning, so here the great basilica was built.

Mass has been celebrated here every day since the fifth century. The three aisles of its 86-meter-long interior are separated by 40 columns of marble and four of granite, and the apse added in the 13th century is lined with mosaics of Old and New Testament themes, masterpieces of Rome's famous mosaic artists.

Rome's oldest mosaics, as old as the fourth century, decorate the upper walls, and the floor is inlaid with colored stone in the style of the expert 12th-century artisans of the Lake Como region. The first gold to reach Italy from the Americas shines on the coffered ceiling. Two popes are buried here; it's one of Rome's four papal basilicas, an important place of pilgrimage.

Author's Tip: Although admission to Rome's churches is free, you may need to put a euro in the meter to illuminate some artworks or chapels. Keep some coins handy for a better look at the mosaics in Santa Maria Maggiore. It is also a nice gesture to put a few coins in the offering boxes to help the churches maintain their priceless treasures.

Address: Piazza di Santa Maria Maggiore, Rome

One of Rome's most characteristic Baroque squares, Piazza Navona still has the outline of the Roman stadium built here by Emperor Domitian. It was still used for festivals and horse races during the Middle Ages, and was rebuilt in the Baroque style by Borromini, who also designed the magnificent series of palaces and the church of Sant'Agnese, on its west side.

Its facade, campanile, and dome highlight the way Baroque architecture weaves convex and concave surfaces, gables, windows, columns, and piers into a unified design. In the crypt of Sant'Agnese are Alessandro Algardi's 1653 The Miracle of St. Agnes and the remains of a Roman mosaic floor. Sant'Agnese provided a model for Baroque and Rococo churches in Italy and elsewhere.

Although Borromini designed the square and its surrounding facades, it was his archrival, Bernini, who created its centerpiece, the beautiful Baroque fountain, Fontana dei Fiumi . The spirited fountain represents the four rivers then thought to be the largest on each of the known continents, with figures personifying the Nile, Ganges, Danube, and Rio de la Plata around the large basin, each accompanied by plants and animals of their respective regions.

The two other fountains in the square are the 16th-century Fontana del Moro in front of the Palazzo Pamphili, erected by Giacomo della Porta, and the 19th-century Fontana del Nettuno with its figure of Neptune. Today, the square is filled with Romans, tourists, street artists, musicians, souvenir kiosks, cafés, and during December, one of Rome's best Christmas markets.

Nearby, between the Piazza and the Pantheon, the church of San Luigi dei Francesi contains three major paintings by Caravaggio from the late 16th century, including one of his most famous, The Calling of St. Matthew. No information about the paintings is available in the church, but you can download an audio guide in English on the San Luigi dei Francesi website. The church itself is worth seeing for its elaborate ceiling and inlaid marble floors. Like others in Rome, the church is free to enter

Symmetrically situated at the apex of a triangle of streets that include Via Corso, Rome's main shopping street, Piazza del Popolo was designed in the early 19 th century as the northern entrance to the city center. At its center, the Egyptian obelisk, called Flaminio, rises above a fountain, where four white marble lions spout fans of water into four round travertine pools.

Facing one side like mirror images at either side of Via della Corso are the twin churches of Santa Maria dei Miracoli and Santa Maria in Montesanto, and at the opposite side of the grand piazza is the Augustinian Basilica of Santa Maria del Popolo.

Inside, you'll find Pinturicchio frescoes and two tombs by Andrea Sansovino in the choir, and two beautiful chapels. The Chigi Chapel was designed by Raphael in 1515, and the Cesari Chapel holds two important Caravaggio paintings.

Next to the basilica, climb the steps to the Pincio Terrace for views down onto the piazza and across the city of Rome.

Strategically set 50 meters above the Tiber, the Palatine Hill shows evidence of Rome's earliest settlement: rock cuttings found in front of the Temple of Cybele show human activity as long ago as the ninth century BC. Later, this was the site chosen by the emperors and great aristocratic families for their palaces.

The Farnese Gardens were laid out on the hill in the 16th century for Cardinal Alessandro Farnese, a pleasure park of terraces, pavilions, lawns, flowerbeds, trees, and fountains designed as a kind of stage-setting for social gatherings.

Highlights of the Palatine Hill are the House of Livia (Augustus' wife), the semi-subterranean Cryptoporticus , Domus Flavia , Domus Augustana, and most imposing of all, the Baths of Septimius Severus. The Palatine Hill is a lovely place to explore, combining a park with magnificent and impressive ruins of ancient Rome.

One of Rome's largest parks, the Borghese Gardens contain multiple attractions that include two museums, the most prominent of which is the Villa Borghese. Built as a party villa and to house the Borghese art collection, the gallery contains paintings, sculptures, mosaics, and reliefs, most from the 15th to the 18th century, and include works by Raphael, Titian, Caravaggio, Bernini, Dürer, and Rubens .

Elsewhere in the park, Villa Giulia was built as a summer residence for the 16th-century Pope Julius III and houses the Etruscan Museum . More villas are from the world exposition that was held in Rome in 1911.

The park is an English-style landscape garden, with walking paths and ponds where you can rent row boats. You can also rent bikes or a surrey to explore the park. There is a good zoo, Bioparco di Roma , with naturalized enclosures and a miniature trail connecting its various sections. A number of its attractions will appeal to children, including playgrounds, weekend pony rides, and occasional puppet shows.

Many of its attractions will appeal to children , including playgrounds, weekend pony rides, and occasional puppet shows, making it one of the most popular things to do in Rome for families .

One of the secrets of the Borghese Gardens is the replica of Shakespeare's Globe Theatre, where you can watch opera performances or Shakespeare plays. Plays are always in Italian, but an occasional opera is in English. You can rent a cushion and sit on the floor or you can sit in the balconies that ring the interior.

Address: Piazzale del Museo Borghese, 5

Begun in AD 135 as a mausoleum for the Emperor Hadrian and his family, Castel Sant'Angelo is a massive drum-shaped structure overlooking the Tiber near the Vatican. Over the millennia of its existence, Castel Sant'Angelo has been used as a papal residence and a fortress, and more recently as a National Museum.

In AD 271, Emperor Aurelian took advantage of its position guarding the northern approaches to the city and incorporated it into his new system of walls surrounding the city. As a bastion, it protected the city from barbarian attacks, and by the Middle Ages had become a substantial fortress. In times of peril, popes fled here across a secret elevated corridor, the Passetto di Borgo , and stored their most precious riches in the castle's treasury.

Visitors reach the castle across a pedestrian bridge lined with statues of angels (by Bernini), and ascend to its five floors on a spiral ramp. At its various levels are prison cells, a large collection of weapons, and splendidly decorated papal apartments covered in Renaissance frescoes. At the top is a terrace with stunning views of the city.

Address: Lungotevere Castello 50, Rome

Across the Tiber River and off the most popular tourist routes, Trastevere feels like an earlier Rome, with its medieval lanes and narrow alleys . You'll find bits of Roman stonework in its old buildings, and occasional inscriptions that remind you that this was for three centuries the Jewish Ghetto, its gates closed and guarded at night.

Today it is a charming neighborhood with two outstanding churches that are rarely on tourist itineraries. In the third century, before Rome's Jewish population gravitated to this side of the river, Santa Maria in Trastevere was one of the first places where Christians could worship except in secret.

Renovated several times, the last in the Baroque period, the church interior is decorated with patterned marble floors, a gold-washed coffered ceiling, and exceptional medieval mosaics. Also with good mosaics, and a fine 13 th -century fresco, Santa Cecilia in Trastevere hides the foundations of a Roman home.

Author's Tip: It's no secret that Trastevere is a good place to find restaurants serving authentic Roman dishes, but you'll find them less crowded than those in the popular tourist areas.

Two palaces on Piazza del Campidoglio house Europe's oldest public collection of art, founded in 1471. Primarily devoted to sculptures from across the ancient world, the highlights of the Capitoline Museum treasures include the realistic Hellenistic bronze Boy with a Thorn ; Capitoline Venus , from a 4 th -century BC original by Praxiteles; a 4.24-meter-tall Roman equestrian statue of Marcus Aurelius; a Roman sculpture of the Dying Gaul ; and the Capitoline She-Wolf , an Etruscan work from the 6th century BC.

More "modern" sculptures include a head of Medusa, by the 17 th -century Baroque sculptor Gian Lorenzo Bernini. Although the Capitoline Museum is best known for its outstanding collection of classical sculptures, its Capitoline Picture Gallery exhibits paintings by Titian, Veronese, and Rubens, along with Caravaggio's compelling John the Baptist.

Address: Piazza del Campidoglio, Rome

Completed by Caracalla in 216, these were much more than public baths. They were a complete sports center, with hot and cold baths, a swimming pool, dry and steam saunas, gymnastics and sports facilities, social rooms, gardens, libraries, hairdressers, and shops.

The massive and imposing structure covered an area of 300 square meters, a complex of gigantic halls whose domes and vaulting were supported by huge columns and piers. It could accommodate 1,500 people at a time. The floors and walls were covered with marble, mosaics, and frescoes; even in ruin, their splendor is still evident.

Address: Via delle Terme di Caracalla 52, Rome

As you might expect for the episcopal church of the Pope, St. John Lateran is one of Rome's most impressive churches. After centuries of alterations, it still retains its original form from the age of Constantine, when it was built.

Its façade, by contrast, is a purely Baroque embellishment and a fine example of that period. Along with the mosaics in the apse, be sure to notice the beautiful 16th-century wooden ceiling. If the octagonal baptistery, San Giovanni in Fonte , looks a bit familiar, it's because it provided the model for later ones throughout Europe.

Built by Constantine, it is the world's oldest Christian baptistery. Across the piazza, in the church of the Scala Santa, is the Holy Staircase, 28 steps believed to have been brought to Rome in the fourth century by St. Helen, from Pilate's palace in Jerusalem.

The Catacombs of San Callisto (St. Calixtus) and San Sebastiano , both underground burial places in the Via Appia Antica, are extensive — the San Callista Catacomb fills an area of 300 by 400 meters — with intricate multi-layered networks of passages and chambers carved into the soft tufa. In addition to the tombs, St. Calixtus has six sacramental chapels, constructed between 290 and 310, with both pagan and early Christian wall paintings.

In the Papal Crypt are the tombs of most of the martyred Popes of the third century identified by Greek inscriptions. San Sebastiano, one of Rome's seven pilgrimage churches, was built in the fourth century on the site of old cemeteries and catacombs that, along with the foundations of a Constantinian basilica, can be explored.

Tomb chambers are on several levels with fine paintings, stucco decorations, and inscriptions dating to the first century AD. Although venerated remains are thought to have been brought here for safekeeping during persecutions, these were cemeteries, not hiding places for Christians.

A little west of the Via Appia Antica, not far from the catacombs of San Callisto, the Catacombs of Domitilla are the largest and among the most impressive in Rome, with 15 kilometers of underground chambers and passages and a complete subterranean basilica.

Dedicated to the martyred saints entombed there, Nereus and Achilleus, the basilica was a major pilgrimage destination until the Middle Ages. More than 80 painted tombs and a second-century fresco of The Last Supper survive in its galleries.

Outside the Porta San Sebastiano, the Arch of Drusus is near the beginning of the Via Appia Antica, one of the oldest and most important of the Roman highways, built around 300 BC and extended to the port of Brindisi about 190 BC.

Running parallel with the road are the ruins of some of the aqueducts that supplied the city with water, and among the cypresses along its sides are remains of tombs belonging to aristocratic Roman families. The most prominent of these is the first-century tomb of Caecilia Metella and her husband.

Address: Via Appia Antica, Rome

Rome's finest private collection of art is displayed in the magnificent Baroque galleries, state rooms, and chapel of the Palazzo Doria Pamphilj. Representing works by European masters from the 15 th through the 18 th centuries, the collections include paintings by Filippo Lippi, Brueghel the Elder, Correggio, and Raphael, along with major works by Caravaggio ( Rest in the Flight into Egypt) and Titian ( Salome with the Head of John the Baptist).

Velázquez's Portrait of Innocent X is one of the collection's highlights. Another image of the same Pope is a sculpture by Bernini. The palace itself almost outshines its contents, with frescoed ceilings and Baroque decoration; a good audio guide in English enlivens the tour. The gardens are beautiful, with an intricately patterned parterre with labyrinth elements.

Address: Via del Corso 305, Rome

One of Rome's oldest churches and with the city's most beautifully decorated apse, covered in mosaics of Old and New Testament scenes, San Clemente has a further fascination: the multiple layers of its history as each era built upon the last.

You can descend from the 12 th -century church into a previous church, a 4 th -century basilica with Romanesque frescoes of New Testament scenes. Below that are the excavated foundations of a Roman home from the 2 nd century AD, with a shrine to the sun god Mithra, with a carved relief on the altar. From the foundations of the house, you can walk on the ancient streets of this former Roman neighborhood.

But do take time to look around the upper church, to see the mosaics, the inlaid marble floors, and the early Renaissance frescoes by Masolino in the St. Catherine's Chapel.

Address: Via San Giovanni in Laterano 108, Rome

In July of 64 CE, a six-day fire destroyed almost three-fourths of the city. The cruel and unpopular emperor Nero took advantage of the cleared land to build a palace of unheard-of proportions, the Domus Aurea, or Golden House. Rooms were lined in rare marble and elaborately decorated in gold and precious stones.

The palace was never finished, and Nero's successors, attempting to erase all memory of the hated ruler and his reign, buried it, and Rome grew over it. Excavations continue to disclose more of its splendors, and you can tour the active archaeological site to see the halls and rooms that have been uncovered, some with excellent frescoes.

With the help of a video outlining the history and virtual reality technology that recreates the atrium and one hall , you can get a sense of what the palace looked like in Nero's time. Both are included in tours.

Tip: Even on the hottest days, bring something with long sleeves, as the underground excavations site is quite cold year-round.

Historical Note: Did Nero really fiddle while Rome burned? Although he took advantage of the destroyed city to build his extravagant villa, and there was disgruntled mumbling at the time that he had ordered the fire set to clear the land, no historical evidence or contemporary account mentions his playing any musical instrument.

Address: Via della Domus Aurea, Rome

Diocletian's baths were so enormous that today, they contain two churches, large parts of a Carthusian monastery and a major museum. Michelangelo used the vast tepidarium (hot baths) as the shell for his church of Santa Maria degli Angeli , and the Museo Nazionale Romano , Rome's National Museum, fills another section with treasures of antiquity: Greek and Roman sculpture, pre-Christian and later sarcophagi, and beautiful mosaics and frescoes.

The late-16th-century church of San Bernardo alle Terme was built in a rotunda at the corner of the baths; its dome is like that of the Pantheon, but only half its size.

While Rome's main tourist attractions don't exactly cluster, most of the major ones are within a 20- to 30-minute walk of each other, so several areas are convenient for sightseeing. The Monti neighborhood is perhaps the most central to the Forum, Colosseum, Trevi Fountain, and even the Spanish Steps and Borghese Gardens. Here are some highly rated hotels in Rome's best locations for sightseeing:

Luxury Hotels :

• Palazzo Manfredi - Relais & Chateaux is next to the Colosseum, and you can overlook it while enjoying breakfast in the rooftop restaurant.
• Boutique Hotel Campo de Fiori has a rooftop garden overlooking the colorful daily market in one of Rome's most traditional neighborhoods, near the Pantheon and an easy walk from Palatine Hill and the Vatican.
• Two blocks from the Colosseum, Hotel Capo d'Africa is in a neighborhood filled with small restaurants.

Mid-Range Hotels:

• The four-star Mercure Roma Centro Colosseo is an easy walk from the Colosseum, which you can see from the hotel's rooftop swimming pool and from some of the guest rooms.
• In Monti, close to both the Colosseum and Forum, Hotel Fori Imperiali Cavalieri is surrounded by restaurants and shopping.
• Opposite the Opera House in Monti, iQ Hotel Roma has a covered rooftop terrace and modern décor.

Budget Hotels:

• Amid restaurants and shops in Monti, between the Forum and opera house, Hotel Artorius is not adjacent to any major attractions, but lies within a 20- to 30-minute walk from the Forum, Colosseum, Trevi Fountain, Vittoriano, and museums.
• Also in the lively Monte neighborhood, and an easy walk from the Colosseum and other attractions of ancient Rome, Hotel Grifo offers a rooftop terrace and free breakfast.
• On the west bank of the Tiber, south of Vatican City, Trastevere is one of the city's most colorful neighborhoods. Although Trastevere has several small B&Bs, Cassiodoro is one of its few hotels, surrounded by traditional restaurants and shops.
• Sightseeing Tour by Bus : For maximum flexibility while you're seeing all the top attractions, sign up for the Rome Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Tour on an open-air double-decker bus. Accompanied by audio commentary, this convenient ticket covers all the top sights, with eight different stops, and you can hop on and off at your favorite attractions. You can choose a tour that's valid for either 24 or 48 hours and upgrade to packages that include time-saving skip-the-line admission to attractions like Palatine Hill, the Colosseum, and the Roman Forum.
• Segway Tour: Another way to see the top sights without worrying about navigating your way around the city is on the Rome Segway Tour . Included in this three-hour excursion are a brief orientation session, helmets, wet weather jackets (if needed), and audio commentary. Meet your guide near Piazza Venezia and see the sights of Ancient Rome, including the Colosseum, the Roman Forum, and Circus Maximus, learning all about them as you zoom around the city.
• Gladiator Experience : If you've always wondered what it's like to brandish a sword like Spartacus, consider signing up for the Roman Gladiator School: Learn How to Become a Gladiator experience on the Appian Way, near the Colosseum. This two-hour private lesson is suitable for anyone aged six years and older and includes entrance to the Gladiator School of Rome Museum as well as clothing and weapon hire.
• Tivoli Day Trip : Organized tours are a great way to explore the attractions in the beautiful countryside around Rome. You can relax and let a professional guide do the work without the hassle of driving, finding your way, and parking. On the Tivoli Day Trips from Rome: Villa d'Este and Hadrian's Villa tour, you can explore two World Heritage-listed historic villas, built as vacation homes for the Roman elite, as well as their gorgeous gardens. The tour includes transportation in a comfortable coach, villa admission, and headsets so you can easily hear the guide.
• Pompeii Day Trip : Another popular excursion is the Pompeii Day Trip from Rome . On this full-day tour, you can hike to the crater of Mt. Vesuvius (in summer) or visit the National Archeological Museum of Pompeii (November 16 through March 31), as well as see the sights of Pompeii. Entrance fees and lunch are included.

Where to Go near Rome: When you have seen Rome's ancient sites, you'll want to explore some of the city's surroundings. The town of Tivoli lies 30 kilometers east of Rome, with Hadrian's Villa and one of the most beautiful gardens in Italy .

Places to Visit from Rome: In just over an hour by train, you can step into the exuberant street life of the vibrant city of Naples . From here, you are only a short ferry ride from the idyllic island of Capri , across the Bay of Naples. Or take a train the short distance to the ancient city of Pompeii , under the still smoldering cone of Mt. Vesuvius.

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Rome is a city full of museums, historic squares, rich food culture, Roman landmarks and other highlights. The Italian city has more to offer than just the main Rome tourist attractions like the Colosseum , the Pantheon and St. Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City. To prepare your visit to this city, our travel guides shows you the top 25 of the most famous sightseeing and most beautiful Rome attractions . Click one of the must-see highlights, places to visit or Roman landmarks for more information on this unique monuments, museums , tourist attractions and best things to do in Rome Italy :

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22 TOP Hidden Gems of Rome That Most Tourists Never See (+ Map & Tips)

By Author Jurga

Posted on Last updated: October 4, 2023

Are you visiting Rome and want to get a bit off the beaten path and discover some of the secret or lesser known, hidden gems of Rome? This article might be just what you need. Take a look!

Rome is one of the most beautiful cities in Italy and a real bucket-list destination! Even people who have never been to the city can tell you what the main highlights of Rome are. Who hasn’t heard of the Colosseum , Trevi Fountain, or St. Peter’s Basilica? But if you travel to Rome and spend all your time checking off the list of the must-see places only, you are missing a great deal .

I know it because I made this mistake the first time I traveled to Rome. I loved this beautiful city, but I was just ticking off the list of the main landmarks and missing more local experiences… So on the subsequent trips, I decided to set it right and tried to get off the beaten path for a taste of different, secret Rome even if just for a little bit.

If you are also looking to get to know a bit different side of the Eternal City and visit a few of the hidden gems of Rome , this article will give you a few ideas. And if you wonder how to see these places, check out our recommended Rome itinerary for 4 days – in addition to all the ‘musts’, it also includes most of the hidden gems mentioned in this article.

I also included a map indicating all the hidden gems mentioned in this article. At the bottom of this article, you can also find some quirky and different local tours in Rome. Take a look!

Top 3 Unusual Things to Do in Rome:

• Crypts, Catacombs & Bone Chapel .
• Street Food Tour .
• Ancient Appian Way, Aqueducts & Catacombs .

In this article, we are sharing some of the less known, amazing places you can find in Rome that most tourists never see. Why are they ignored? Because the competition is fierce. That’s the one and only reason I can think of.

These are one by one top places and they would have no difficulty in attracting big crowds were it not for the bad luck of being located in the shadow of the ‘must-see’ places in Rome.

While some of these gems of Rome are somewhat known and more and more tourists seem to find their way to them, some others are still really undiscovered…

Update: This guide to some off-the-beaten-path places in Rome was originally published with just a few of my personal favorites. However, our readers wanted more ideas and more unique places to see. So we asked our fellow travel writers to share some of their favorite hidden gems of Rome and included them in this updated edition. I also added some more places and updates after our most recent visit to Rome.

This list will give you more ideas for unique places to visit in Rome than you’ll be able to do in one trip. Find out!

TIP: If you want to get a bit off the beaten path and discover the lesser-known side of Rome, consider these two tours: ancient Appian Way, aqueducts & catacombs by e-bike, and this street food tour with a local guide . After lots of research, we booked these two tours on our most recent visit and I can highly recommend them both to everyone looking to get to know Rome in a different way!

The hidden gems of Rome on the map

To make your trip planning easier, I created a map with all the hidden gems of Rome mentioned in this article. It should help you to better plan your visit – take a look below.

How to use this map:  Use your computer mouse (or fingers) to zoom in or out. Click on the icons to get more information about each place. Click the arrow on the top left corner for the index. Click the star next to the map’s title to add it to your Google Maps account. To view the saved map on your smartphone or PC, open Google Maps, click the menu and go to ‘Your Places’/’Maps’. If you want to print the map or see it in a bigger window, click on ‘View larger map’ in the top right corner.

Without further ado, here are some lesser-known and secret places, the hidden gems of Rome:

1. Quartiere Coppedè

Visiting Quartiere Coppedè was one of my absolute favorite experiences in Rome. We were walking down the regular busy street, then turned around the corner, and… WOW! There it was – Rome’s smallest district – Quartiere Coppedè .

Quartiere Coppedè is a fairy-tale-like neighborhood in Rome and is different from anything else I have ever seen. The best place to start exploring is by entering Quartiere Coppedè at the corner of Via Dora and Via Tagliamento.

The Coppedè neighborhood isn’t big and there are just a couple of really special buildings. However, it’s so unique that it makes the visit here really worth it. It’s one of those secret places in Rome that are completely off the beaten path and there are hardly any tourists around…

You can easily visit this neighborhood on your own, but if you prefer to go with a local guide and discover more hidden gems of Rome, there are a few tours that also visit here .

2. Basilica di Santo Stefano Rotondo al Celio

There are more than 900 churches in Rome, one more impressive than another and it would be impossible and somewhat pretentious to just pick one favorite. Santo Stefano Rotondo made it to my list of the hidden gems of Rome because it’s so very different from the other churches we visited in Rome.

Basilica of Santo Stefano Rotondo is the oldest example of a centrally planned church in Rome. The church was built in the 5th century and is famous for its 16-century graphic frescoes, portraying many scenes of martyrdom. This church has impressed me with the unusual circular architecture, somber interior, and truly authentic feel.

There is plenty of history and very old buildings in Rome, but only a few places make you feel like you traveled back in time. Santo Stefano Rotondo is one of them!

It’s hard to believe that this church is located within such a short walking distance from the Colosseum. It’s a truly hidden little secret that is well worth visiting if you have at least half an hour to spare.

This small church is a real secret gem of Rome, literally hidden. If you don’t know it’s there, it is quite easy to miss.

Practical information: Basilica of Santo Stefano Rotondo is located on Via di Santo Stefano Rotondo 7 (side street of Via Claudia), just a 10-15 minute walk from the Colosseum. It’s open to the public from 10 AM to 1 PM and from 2 PM to 5 PM (October to March) and from 3 PM to 6 PM during the summer months.

3. Trastevere

Trastevere is a somewhat lesser-visited district in central Rome. It’s one of the places where you can find a very pleasant local atmosphere and some of the best food in Rome.

Located just across the Tiber River from the city center, is probably the most charming district in Rome. Out of all the places on this list, Trastevere is the most popular one with tourists. However, most travelers seem to limit their visit to Piazza di Santa Maria in Trastevere and a few streets around it.

The moment you leave the busy square next to the church, the number of tourists decreases dramatically. Just two-three blocks further and you are left to explore the charming old neighborhood all on your own.

There is also an outdoor food market on Piazza di San Cosimato and, together with a couple of restaurants and a playground, it’s a part of the city that gives you a truly local feel.

Trastevere is not a secret place by any means, but as it often goes, most people never take the time to explore it deeper.

TIP: If you can, plan to have lunch or dinner in Trastevere as there are so many good local restaurants in the area. Try to avoid places with pictures on the menu and look for the ones where locals eat. For an even more authentic experience, join this highly-rated Trastevere food tour with a local .

If you are interested, you can find some authentic food stores like Antica Caciara selling some of the best cheeses in Rome or Pasticceria Valzani selling traditional pastries.

There are more of these really old shops in Trastevere and while they may look charming to one, somebody else may find that they bear lots of resemblance to the old food stores in the communist countries three-four decades back in time…

I find that small neighborhood stores are well worth paying a visit in order to get a more authentic feel for the place. It’s better than the souvenir stands anyway.

Another great way to discover the local side of Rome and the food of Trastevere is by doing this food tour . It brings you to some secret places you wouldn’t easily find on your own, while at the same time allowing you to taste some local delicacies.

TIP: For an even more local experience, check this highly-rated Rome food tour in an even lesser-known district, the Jewish Quarter. It includes samples of typical Roman dishes, wine and beer tastings, and of course, the Italian Gelato! We did this tour on our most recent trip to Rome and I can’t recommend it highly enough!

4. Aventine Hill and Knights of Malta Keyhole

Recommended by Lori of TravlinMad

A visit to Rome’s Aventine Hill , the southernmost of the Seven Hills of Rome, offers a peaceful respite from the bustling city and crowds. Here, you can find not one, but several bucket list-worthy hidden gems of Rome. 

Steeped in ancient Roman history, the Aventine was home to plebeians during the days of the Republic. Today, the area is comprised of upscale residences, sumptuous gardens, and elegant churches and monasteries with a wealth of architectural interest.

Don’t miss the Basilica of Santa Sabina ( Basilica di Santa Sabina all’Aventino ), one of Rome’s oldest basilicas. Its interior is especially worth seeing!

One of the defining sites on Aventine Hill is the Orange Trees Garden ( Giardino degli Aranci ), one of the city’s most beautiful parks. It’s also one of the largest parks in Rome at nearly 8,000 square meters. Not only is the park worth a visit for its secluded location and feel, but it also offers some of the best views in Rome .

Just nearby, you can find one of Rome’s most interesting hidden gems – the Knights of Malta Keyhole in Piazza dei Cavalieri di Malta. Near the parking lot and behind the big green door is where you can steal a peek through the keyhole and be treated to one of the most unique views of Saint Peter’s Basilica through the hedges. The view technically spans three countries – across the autonomous property of the Knights of Malta, through a patch of Italy, and over to the Vatican.

Practical information: A visit here is free of charge, but keep in mind that the garden is only open until sunset. The Priory Keyhole is no longer a secret place in Rome. Recently, it has become a very popular site and so expect a long queue at the keyhole. However, it’s usually quieter early in the morning or in the evening at around sunset.

5. Via Margutta

Recommended by Helga of ShegoWandering

Via Margutta is a beautiful street hidden between Piazza di Spagna’s Spanish Steps and Piazza del Popolo. As it’s off the main road, it’s never busy, and it’s an absolutely magical place, with beautiful Italian palazzos covered with ivys all along the street. Originally, Via Margutta was home of various stables and workshops, but that has changed in the last century.

The street became famous after the premiere of the movie ‘ Roman Holiday ‘ with Audrey Hepburn and Gregory Pack in 1953. Roman Holiday is one of the most iconic movies ever made in the Italian capital. Since the main male character, Joe Bradley, lived on Via Margutta in the movie, the street became famous straight away.

Thanks to the success of this film, many famous people moved to Via Margutta in the 60s -70s. The neighborhood of Via Margutta became an exclusive, super expensive place to live in Rome. Also today, it’s still the residence of wealthier Romans.

In addition to its beautiful buildings, this quiet, cozy, and colorful street also has some unique places to visit. On Via Margutta, you can find numerous amazing art galleries, luxury shops, and high-end restaurants.

TIP: If you’re a fan of the Roman Holiday , you can also visit the palazzo where Joe Bradley was living in the movie. It’s located on Via Margutta 51.

6. Doria Pamphili Gallery

Recommended by Dymphe of Dym Abroad

The Palazzo Doria Pamphilj is a beautiful and interesting palace in the center of Rome. It’s absolutely stunning, easy to visit, but is not very well-known. You can easily walk here from other famous sights in Rome, such as the Trevi Fountain, Pantheon, or the Victor Emmanuel II Monument.

The interior of the palazzo is lavishly decorated. Inside the palace, everywhere you look, you can see amazing art and impressive architectural details. Furthermore, the courtyard of the palace is also very nice to visit.

But there’s more to this palace than its looks! Inside, you’ll find the Doria Pamphilj Gallery . This is one of the best museums in Rome! All the artwork was collected by the Doria Pamphilj family, a princely Roman family, and contains works from various periods in time. Most of the paintings were made by famous painters, such as Velázquez, Raphael, and Titian.

The combination of the beautiful palace and its rich art collection makes a visit to Palazzo Doria Pamphilj one of the best activities for those looking to get off the beaten path and experience a truly unique place in Rome.

Practical information: The entrance fee includes an audio guide. The gallery is open on Saturday, Sunday, Monday and public holidays from 9.30 AM till 7 PM and on Friday from 11:30 AM till 11 PM. For more information, check their website (in Italian) or book your tickets here (in English).

7. Capuchin Crypt of Santa Maria della Concezione

Recommended by Roxanne of Faraway Worlds

If you are looking for something unique to do in Rome, don’t miss the Capuchin Crypt at Our Lady of the Conception of the Capuchins (Santa Maria della Concezione dei Cappuccini). This is one of the best and easy-to-visit Rome underground sites .

Underneath the church lie the bones of almost 4,000 monks. What’s unusual about this crypt is that the bones aren’t buried. Instead, they adorn the six tiny chapels below the church.

In 1631, the Capuchin monks left their home at the friary of St. Bonaventure near the Trevi Fountain and moved to the Santa Maria della Concezione. The cardinal ordered them to bring the remains of their deceased brothers with them, so all the Capuchin friars could rest in one place. This they did. However, instead of burying the bones, they decorated the walls of the crypts with them.

The bones of all the monks who died between 1528 and 1870 decorate the crypt walls, the effect both disquieting and strangely beautiful. The ornaments vary in nature – there are separate crypts for the different bones (skulls, legs, and pelvises), light-fittings made from finger bones, and a skeleton holding a scythe and scales (both, of course, made of bones).

This was meant as a reminder for the monks that death is inevitable. A plaque in one of the chapels reads “What you are now, we once were. What we are now, you shall be”. Wandering through the chapels is a melancholy experience, somehow intertwining death, art and religion. 

Practical information: Santa Maria della Concezione is located on the Via Veneto near Piazza Barberini, a short walk from the Trevi Fountain. The crypts are open from 9 AM to 7 PM daily. Keep in mind that modest clothing is required and photography is not allowed these days anymore.

TIP: If you like crypts and catacombs, you may want to join one of the popular tours that visit these unique places in Rome. This is the most popular tour that visits the Capuchin Crypt, the Catacombs, and more . Check it out!

8. Largo di Torre Argentina Cat Sanctuary

Recommended by Cindy of Travel Bliss Now

Largo di Torre Argentina is a town square in the heart of Rome, just a few blocks from the Pantheon. Chances are that you’ll notice the ruins just below street level at Largo di Torre Argentina. What you might not know is that this is the very spot where Julius Caesar was assassinated. Nowadays, it’s a  cat sanctuary .

The ruins of four temples and the remains of Pompey’s Theatre date back as far as the 4 th  century B.C. Julius Caesar was killed on the steps of the theatre on the Ides of March 44 B.C.

When the site was excavated in 1929, feral cats moved in. The cat ladies of Rome started looking after them and eventually established a shelter in one corner of the site. Now, 130 cats live in the ruins. And that’s what also makes this place more special to visit – not just the history, but also the cats.

Good to know: You can’t access the ruins, but can see the site and the cats, at no cost, from street level. And because this place is so central, you can easily add it to your itinerary, even if you only have a day in Rome . You can also visit the shelter itself, where about 20 elderly or disabled cats live. To get there, take the stairs down to the site at the corner of Via Florida and Via di Torre Argentina. 

Practical information: The cat sanctuary is open from noon to 6 PM on weekdays, and 11 AM to 6 PM on weekends. There is no charge to visit, but donations are welcome. You can find more information on their website .

9. Vatican Necropolis & St Peter’s Tomb

Recommended by Nicholas of Rambling Feet

St Peter’s Basilica is one of the most well-known and visited sites within Rome, but few people visit the ancient Roman necropolis that lies buried under the church.

It is partly because you cannot simply rock up and buy a ticket or wait in line to enter. The process starts with writing to the  Vatican Scavi office  ahead of time, hoping you get a reply confirming your spot on a guided tour. If successful, you would be one of only 250 visitors who would be permitted to enter that day. 

As the tour descends the stairs to the underground necropolis (there are no lifts), you will be taken two millennia back in time. Vatican Hill was once outside the city walls of Rome. It covered in the 1st and 2nd-century mausoleums that lie under the present-day St Peter’s Basilica. Incredibly, they were discovered only 80 years ago and the paintings on some mausoleums are very well-preserved.

Inside, there are also old piers and structures that date to Emperor Constantine’s Old St Peter’s Basilica. That church was torn down and replaced in the 1500s by the Bramante/Michelangelo masterpiece that we see today.

For pilgrims, the Vatican Necropolis is especially significant because it is also the site of the tomb of the Apostle St Peter . To paraphrase the Bible, the tour takes you to see the “rock” on which the Church was built.

Good to know: Vatican Necropolis is very humid and stuffy, so I would not recommend visiting it in the middle of a Roman summer. No photography is permitted during the tour, hence the publicly-sourced photo for this write-up. Lastly, the tour ends in the Vatican grottoes where the popes are buried, which means that taking this underground tour is one of the  ways you can skip the queue to enter St Peter’s Basilica . 

Alternatively, you can just visit the underground of St. Peter’s Basilica – Vatican Grottoes. Here, you can visit the publically accessible St. Peter’s Tomb (one level higher than the original St Peter’s Tomb) and see where some of the Popes are buried. It’s not the same as going deeper, of course, but much easier to do without any prior arrangements.

TIP: You can also do this with this amazing tour that includes St. Peter’s Basilica and Dome visit as well as the underground grottos. We recently did this tour and it was a good way to learn more about the Basilica without getting overwhelmed or trying to figure out where exactly to go and what’s worth seeing the most.

10. Appian Way

Recommended by Jyoti of Story at Every Corner

Dating from 312-264 BC, Appian Way was the first and the most strategic road in Rome. Used for military transportation, this road also led to many conquests for the Roman Empire. These days, visiting the Appian Road is one of the most special, unique things to do in Rome! After all, how many things stand the test of time for thousands of years?!

The Appian Way is the longest straight road in Europe (62 km). It went from Rome to the coastal town of Brindisi, on the other end of the peninsula. Many of the sections of this iconic 2,300 years old road survive to this day. Much of it is renovated and used by cars and other vehicles. So you can drive on the oldest road in Europe! 

There are many ways to explore this historic route. Most locals come for a stroll and a peaceful walk on the quiet tree-lined sections of the road. For a quick visit, the easiest way is to come with an e-bike tour . We opted for a horseback ride. The section we visited is well preserved with its original stone road and remains of many buildings, temples, and mausoleums next to it.

TIP: On hot summer days, it’s best to visit in the morning or evening. 

Practical info: There is no entry fee or even an entrance gate for the road. You can visit any time. As already said, the easiest way to visit is with a tour . Alternatively, you can get here by bus. You’ll have to check the bus route and schedule on Rome’s transit site .

TIP: This Appian Way, Aqueducts & Catacombs e-bike tour also visits the Appian Way, Roman Aqueducts, and it includes a visit to the Catacombs of St. Callisto (more info about these places – below). We did this bike tour on our most recent visit to Rome and it was one of the best days in the city! It’s such a great way to explore Rome off the beaten path and see so many amazing hidden gems in a short time.

11. Catacombs of St. Callixtus

There are few places in Rome that are as unique and as special as the Catacombs of St. Callixtus (Catacombe di San Callisto). So if you are looking to discover hidden Rome, definitely consider a visit here. Nowhere else can you feel and experience history as you do here!

St. Callixtus Catacombs are located just outside the city walls of Rome, along the Appian Way. It’s an ancient burial site containing about 500,000 tombs dating from the 2nd-4th centuries. It’s best known for the Crypt of the Popes, where some of the first popes were buried, the grave of St. Cecilia, and some ancient frescoes.

The catacombs have several underground layers connected by staircases and about 20km of tunnels. You can only visit here with a guide, so no worries about getting lost. A guided tour includes a visit to the second underground layer where the most interesting crypts and graves are located. You also walk through several corridors and a visit here gives you a very good idea of the vastness of this site.

Good to know: It’s not a creepy place and one that you can also visit with children (there were lots of kids when we visited and – with the right explanation – they all seemed to be really interested and found the visit fascinating). All the open graves that you’ll see have been emptied and the bones were moved to the lower levels where tourists aren’t allowed (this is because of the vandalism in the past).

Practical info: St. Callixtus Catacombs are open daily except for Wednesdays and some public holidays, in the morning from 9 am to 12 and in the afternoon from 2 pm to 5 pm. You have to book your tickets in advance – see their website for more info or book your tickets here .

The catacombs are located outside the city and can be reached by public transport. You can also drive here by car or taxi. However, the easiest way to visit here is with an organized tour , often in combination with the Appian Way and/or some other interesting sites. That way, you don’t have to worry about any practicalities.

TIP: As already mentioned before, we visited these catacombs on this Appian Way, Aqueducts & Catacombs e-bike tour . It’s a wonderful tour that covers some of the most unique places in Rome in just half a day. Highly recommended!

12. Chiesa Santa Maria Addolorata

In the city of 900 churches, one more impressive than the other, Chiesa Santa Maria Addolorata (Church of Our Lady of Sorrows) is well worth including in your list of the hidden gems to visit. Not only because it’s located close to the earlier-mentioned Coppedé district, but also because it’s truly beautiful!

Commissioned by Argentine priests and sponsored by Argentine bishops, this was the first South American national church in Rome. It took 20 years to build and the church was inaugurated in 1930.

Chiesa Santa Maria Addolorata on Piazza Buenos Aires is quite different from most of the other churches in Rome. On the outside, you’ll find beautiful mosaics that change color depending on the light. Inside, the church has two levels and a Neo-Byzantine interior with even more impressive mosaics.

Good to know: There are two churches in Rome with the same name. See our map for the exact location.

Practical information: The church is open daily and is free to visit.

13. Gianicolo – Janiculum Hill

Gianicolo or the Janiculum Hill , also called the 8th Hill of Rome, is another beautiful area that is overlooked by most travel guides. It offers some of the best views of the city of Rome !

Gianicolo is located South of Vatican City, just above Trastevere, and can be easily reached on foot. It’s a bit of a climb though, but the views over the city of Rome are certainly worth it.

The main attraction is the Piazzale Garibaldi with Giuseppe Garibaldi Monument and a cannon that fires each day at noon. In addition, make sure not to miss the 17th-century Aqua Paola Fountain (Fontana dell’Acqua Paola) as well.

Gianicolo is an amazingly quiet area and a good way to escape the city and get a bit off the beaten path.

TIP: One of the best ways to explore Gianicolo and some of the other further located areas in Rome is by taking a bike. You can rent a bike or join a highly-rated electric bike small-group tour .

Private e-bike tours are also available and are great if you want to explore Rome deeper with a local guide but at your own pace.

14. Park of the Aqueducts

Recommended by Anda of  Travel for a while

One of the most interesting places in Rome – and a hidden gem at the same time – is the Aqueducts Park ( Parco degli Acquedotti ). This protected area in the southeast of the city hosts two major aqueducts – Aqua Felix and Aqua Claudia – and the remains of a few others.

These aqueducts were used to bring water from the Alban Hills to the busy city of Rome. Aqua Felix was built by Pope Sixtus V in the 16th century. Aqua Claudia is a much older aqueduct, finished during the reign of Emperor Claudius, in 52 AD. Aqua Claudia is still very impressive with its huge arches dominating the fields.

The Romans used only gravity to bring clean water from the higher ground of the hills to the city. The water filled Rome’s many fountains and was used for drinking and bathing.

The best time to visit the Aqueducts Park is just before sunset. The aqueducts and the umbrella pine trees create a picture-perfect setting at that time. A small part of the Ancient Via Latina is also visible in the Aqueducts Park. The locals come here with their bikes or their dogs, or just for a run. It’s a great place to spend an afternoon with friends or family.

Practical info: You can easily reach the Park of the Aqueducts from Rome’s center by metro line A to either Lucio Sestio or Giulio Agricola stations. The park is a short walk away from the metro station and it is free to visit.

TIP: This highly-rated small-group e-bike tour visits the Park of the Aqueducts, as well as several other hidden gems of Rome mentioned in this article. We did this tour and LOVED it. Check it out!

15. Galleria Sciarra

Recommended by Kate of Our Escape Clause

Located a mere two-minute walk away from the famous Trevi Fountain, visiting the Galleria Sciarra is both easy and well worth the small effort. This beautiful courtyard, which today stands in the center of an office building, was commissioned by Prince Maffeo Barberini-Colonna di Sciarra in the late 19th century to connect several pieces of his property together.

Repeating a fairly common story in modern Italy, what was once the private realm of wealthy citizens has morphed into a public space. Today, Romans use the Galleria Sciarra as a shortcut when walking across the city.

The courtyard is decorated in an intricate Art Nouveau style, with an iron-and-glass ceiling that brings beautiful light to the space and, most strikingly, intricate frescoes showing off the “Glorification of Women”. The frescoes are painted to show off what the artist, Giuseppe Cellini, believed to be female virtues, including strength, justice, and faithfulness, among others.

Soaring high above a visitor’s line of sight, it’s easy to spend several minutes craning your neck upward to make out various details of the frescoes when visiting this hidden gem in Rome.

Practical information: The Galleria Sciarra is located at Via Marco Minghetti, 10, 00187 Roma RM. While it is a very short walk from the Trevi Fountain, you’re very unlikely to stumble across it accidentally–the courtyard lurks just out of sight, tucked into an unassuming yellow building. As the Galleria Sciarra is located in an office building, it is open to visitors during business hours.

16. Domus Aurea – Nero’s Golden House

Recommended by Steph of The Mediterranean Traveller

Hidden in plain sight is one of Rome’s most intriguing archaeological sites – Domus Aurea , or Nero’s Golden House. It’s located in a leafy park just over the road from the Colosseum, but not many people know about it. Don’t go expecting a literal palace of gold though. This one is underground, although confusingly also at ground level, and was stripped of its splendor a long time ago.

So what’s the story? You may have heard of Nero, the fifth emperor of Ancient Rome whose cruelty and madness is legendary. He famously fiddled as Rome burned in the Great Fire of AD 64. There were even rumors that he started the fire himself. Whether or not these stories are true, Nero did use the opportunity to seize a lot of the damaged land for his new palace project.

The site then became a vast country estate in the heart of the city, possibly as large as 300 acres. At its core was an extravagant villa complex designed for entertaining –  lined with frescos, gold leaf, gleaming marble, and mosaics made with ivory and semi-precious stones.

There was a golden dome with an oculus, endless pools and fountains, and reputedly even a banquet hall that rotated as guests were showered with rose petals. Domus Aurea represented the best of Roman art and engineering and the worst of its excesses.

After Nero’s death, the complex was destroyed by subsequent emperors and the land was returned to public use. The main building was filled with rubble and built over – the Baths of Trajan are directly above. 

And so Domus Aurea was lost until the 15th century when a local fell through a hole in the ground and found himself in a cave filled with intricate paintings. The gems and gold had been looted after Nero’s death, but the rubble protected the frescos from light and moisture. The discovery of these caves ( grottos ) had a big influence on the early Renaissance artists of the time.

Excavations at the Domus Aurea are ongoing. Nowadays, you can take a guided tour led by one of the archaeologists. There’s a fantastic virtual reality experience in one room that gives you a sense of what the grounds and building would have looked like in Nero’s time.

Practical information: Domus Aurea can only be visited with an official guide and tickets must be purchased in advance! You can opt for just a guided visit or – recommended – a tour that also includes an amazing Virtual Reality Experience .

Also, don’t trust Google Maps to find it. Instead, walk along the Via della Domus Aurea from the Colosseum, turn left at Viale Serapide, and look for the gate.

17. Baths of Caracalla

Recommended by Katy of Untold Italy

Rome is full of ancient Roman landmarks and 2000-year-old sites , but if you are looking for a really special place, don’t miss the Baths of Caracalla (Terme di Caracalla or Termae Anthoninianae) . These are some of the most impressive Roman Empire ruins still standing in the Eternal City.

Built around 212 AD, the baths were in use for 300 years before falling into ruin. At their peak, the Baths of Caracalla (named after the son of the Roman Emperor who commissioned them) was the second-largest bathhouse in the city.

In fact, it is best to think of this site as more like a modern day leisure center. Along with bathing houses, there were also saunas, a sports center, an Olympic-size swimming pool, gardens, and libraries for the Roman citizens to enjoy. The baths themselves were heated by a system of underground furnaces.

When you visit the baths, you can appreciate the grandeur and scale of this complex. Now a working archaeological site, you can watch stunning mosaics being painstakingly uncovered and restored.

TIP: Make sure you choose the interactive guide! It shows you virtual reconstructions of the baths based on the archeologic research. This digital project shows how the baths were constructed and then filled with art and sculpture that covered the walls and ceilings that soared 44 meters overhead. 

Practical information: The Baths of Caracalla are located on Viale delle Terme di Caracalla 52, close to the Circus Maximus and Metro Line B Circo Massimo. You can find more information on the official website . Alternatively, you can also visit here with this highly-rated tour that includes several other ancient landmarks as well.

18. Villa Borghese

Villa Borghese is the largest public park in Rome and it’s a great refuge from the hectic noisy streets of the city. The park is huge and you would probably need a day to see most of what it has to offer, but it’s a nice place to escape the city, even if just for a few hours.

The park is known as the ‘park of museums’, the most famous one being the Galleria Borghese which is located in the Villa Borghese after which the park is named. But there is more to the park: the lake and many fountains, the old-fashioned puppet theatre, a small zoo, the beautiful gardens,…

Villa Borghese park is located to the North of the Spanish Steps and Piazza del Popolo and is a bit outside of the regular tourists’ routes and even outside some of the city maps, but it’s not really that far. You can easily walk there from the city center.

The best way to explore the park is by bike and there are several places where you can rent one. There is also a small tourist train driving around the park in the high season. If you are visiting Rome with a family, you could rent one of the 4-6 seater bikes to explore the park.

I really enjoyed this oasis of green and quiet in the middle of the noisy city. It is the perfect place to escape the heat in summer, to have a picnic, let your kids play, or just relax.

TIP:  If you want to visit the Borghese Gallery, you have to book the tickets in advance !

19. St. Clement Basilica

Recommended by Annalisa by Travel Connect Experience

The Basilica San Clemente , located just a short walk from the Colosseum, is one of the most overlooked  Rome monuments . From the outside, it might look like any other church in Rome, but this Basilica has so much more to offer than it looks at first sight!

Basilica di San Clemente has three underground layers. They were built in a different time period and each is unique. Visiting here allows you to take a journey through the history and ancient ‘layers’ of Rome all the way back to the 1st century.

As you enter, the 17th-century facade introduces you to a medieval church. The church that you see dates back to the 12th century. It has three naves with a gold inlaid mosaic in the apse and can be visited for free.

With a 10 euro ticket, on the other hand, you have access to the underground levels that preserve 2000 years of history . The Dominican friars who manage the Basilica and the adjoining convent discovered the underground levels at the end of the 19th century, during renovation work.

Immediately below street level is an early Christian basilica from the 4th century. Its altar holds a relic of St. Cyril and impressive frescoes on the walls.

On the floor below, are the remains of two Roman buildings from the 1st century. Inside one ‘building’ that appears like the foundations of a Roman villa, you’ll find a temple dedicated to the god Mithras with a statue of Mithras subduing the bull.

The other ‘building’ is protected by huge megalithic stones – this is probably a place where they used to create coins.

The floor further down dates back to the time of the burning of Rome by Nero, 64 AD.

Practical information: Basilica di San Clemente is open daily. For opening hours and more information, please check their website . Alternatively, this tour visits Basilica San Clemente and a few other hidden gems.

READ ALSO: Rome Underground Sites, Crypts & Catacombs

20. Isola Tiberina

Recommended by Jiayi of  The Diary of a Nomad

Did you know that there’s an island in the middle of Rome’s city center? And not just an island. Tiber Island (Isola Tiberina) is one of the smallest inhabited islands in the world and a real hidden gem in the city. Furthermore, it’s only a 20-minute walk from the Colosseum and is the perfect place to stop by during a stroll on the Lungotevere (Tiber Waterfront).

Floating on the River Tiber, Isola Tiberina is about the size of three football fields. The island is home to Basilica di San Bartolomeo , which dates back to the 10th century and was built on top of an ancient temple. Inside the basilica, you can see relics from Catholic martyrs that have been chewed up by lions in the Colosseum.

There’s also a restaurant and a 400-year-old hospital on the island, which is still in operation today.

The true magic of Isola Tiberina is its transformation into an annual film festival hub in the summer. A pop-up amphitheater is set up there, with hundreds of guests attending different screenings every day.

On summer evenings, Isola Tiberina also comes alive with rows and rows of pop-up bars and restaurants on the island’s riverbanks. The nighttime atmosphere there is truly breathtaking, with tons of locals packing the bars and expats meeting up for drinks while live music plays nearby.

But no matter the season, Isola Tiberina is always worth a few minutes of your time. If you’re strolling around the city center of Rome, definitely check out this tiny hidden gem on the River Tiber!

21. Palazzo Massimo alle Terme

Recommended by Stella Jane of Around the World in 24 Hours

The Palazzo Massimo alle Terme , home to one of the branches of the National Roman Museum, is a real gem! It houses one of the most fascinating collections of Roman artifacts and architecture in the city, but doesn’t get nearly as many visitors as the most popular landmarks!

In just a couple of hours here, you can explore the beautiful creations of ancient Rome without the crowds that you find at the Colosseum or the Roman Forum.

Fans of ancient art will love the Roman sculptures and jewelry here. But the most impressive part of the museum is its remarkably intact ancient mosaics. The museum even has some mosaics that come from the Villa of Livia, Emperor Augustus’s wife.

There are also fragments of a temple dating back to the reign of Emperor Claudius. It’s easy to see why some call this museum one of the finest archaeological museums in the world .

Even if you normally don’t like museums, you will enjoy exploring the more unusual parts of the Massimo alle Terme. The museum itself is located in a 19th-century palace, so the building itself is very beautiful. Enjoy the shade and admire the sculptures and greenery in the palazzo’s outdoor courtyard.

TIP: Your admission ticket will also allow you to explore the nearby Baths of Diocletian, also part of the National Roman Museum. These were the largest Imperial baths in all ancient Rome and remain a spectacular place to explore today.

Practical information: Palazzo Massimo is open from 9 AM to 7:45 PM every day but Monday. Admission is 10 Euros. You can find more information on their website .

22. Park Caffarella

Recommended by Gabi of Under Flowery Sky

Park Caffarella is a large park in central Rome, only 15 minutes walk from the Colosseum. But it’s a world away from the hustle and bustle of the popular tourist areas. This is a place that is mostly visited by locals. You’ll have difficulties believing it’s in Rome!

So if you want to know the local way of life and get to know a very different side of Rome, I truly suggest visiting Caffarella. Here, you can discover Roman ruins, visit a cheese-farm factory (Casale Della Vaccareccia), see the Tomb of Annia Regilla and the Old Mill Farmstead, or simply take a walk through this simple park.

Historical treasures within the park include the Mausoleum of Cecilia Metela, the Temple of Ceres and Faustina, an artificial cave called Nymphaeum of Egeria with its water source, and also a Great Cistern.

The Almone River that flows into the Tiber adds to the charm of the park. In ancient times, botanical life was much richer here, but also nowadays you can still see a big variety of flora and fauna.

It’s a great place to discover the rural side of Rome, to watch over 70 species of birds, and animals like goats, sheep, and foxes. You’ll also find maple trees, oaks, walnuts, fig trees, wild roses, wild apples, and so much more.

The park continues to the ancient Appian Way (see higher above) where the Roman Aurelian’s Wall proudly stays. These Walls encircled all the seven hills around the Eternal City.

Practical information: Park Caffarella is located very centrally. You can walk here from Colosseum or take a metro to Furio Camillo station. The best way to enter the park is through Via Macedonia.

So, here are some of the hidden gems of Rome, the city that has thousands of incredible gems, secret finds, and unique places. Most of these places are really worth your time, but of course, there’s no way to visit them all if you are only in Rome for a few days…

But even if you choose just a few places from this list, you’ll discover a very different side of Rome. A truly unique city that has more secrets than any other place in the world.

The good news is that most of these places are quite easy to visit in combination with the highlights of Rome. Getting just a bit off the beaten tourist track will make your trip to Rome so much more special and memorable!

READ ALSO: Best Views & Viewpoints in Rome

Best tours to get off the beaten path in Rome

If you are looking for more hidden gems of Rome or want to explore the more local side of this beautiful city, but aren’t sure where to start, I recommend booking one or several organized tours with a local.

These great tours bring you to the lesser-known places of Rome and show you a different side of the city that you wouldn’t see otherwise.

Here are some highly-rated local tours that I selected especially for our readers . These are one by one excellent and highly-rayed tours that will show you a different side of Rome, far away from the beaten tourist paths. Take a look:

• By e-bike: Ancient Appian Way, Aqueducts & Catacombs E-Bike Tour .
• Walking tour: Dark Heart of Rome – Facts, Legend & Mystery Walking Tour .
• Bus + walking: Crypts & Catacombs Tour with Bone Chapel Visit .
• Walking food tour: Small-Group Street Food Tour .

READ ALSO: Best Street Food Tour in Rome with a Local Guide

More information and inspiration for your trip to Rome:

• Tips for Planning a Trip to Rome
• Top Things to Do in Rome
• Guide to Colosseum Tickets & Levels
• 1 Day in Rome (all the best places and one or two lesser-known gems)
• 2 Days in Rome (includes a few hidden gems)
• How to See the Best of Rome in 4 Days (includes most of the hidden gems mentioned in this article)
• Best Area to Stay in Rome
• How to Get to Rome from Fiumicino or Ciampino Airports
• Where to Eat in Rome
• Ancient Rome Landmarks (the oldest Roman sites you can still see in Rome today)

READ ALSO: Italy itinerary: how to see the best places in 2 weeks

If you found this post helpful, don’t forget to bookmark it and share it with your friends. Are you on Pinterest? Pin these images!

More travel inspiration and tips for Italy:

• What to see:  Best Places to Visit in Italy
• Italy in low season: Rome in November & Italy in November
• Cities: Most Beautiful Cities in Italy
• Food:  Italian Food by Region & Where to Eat in Rome
• Milan:   Must-see in Milan & One Day in Milan
• Venice: Best Things to Do in Venice & One Day in Venice & Doge’s Palace (must-see!) & Venice Gondola (must-do!)
• Florence: Best Things to Do in Florence & One Day in Florence & Florence Rooftops
• Cinque Terre:  One Day in Cinque Terre & Tips & Info for Visiting Cinque Terre
• Tuscany:  Most Beautiful Towns in Tuscany & Tuscany Itinerary & Siena & Montepulciano
• Amalfi Coast:   Amalfi Coast Itinerary & Where to Stay on Amalfi Coast & How to Get from Naples to Amalfi Coast
• Naples: Best Things to Do in Naples & Where to Stay in Naples & One Day in Naples & Best Day Trips from Naples
• Emilia Romagna:  Emilia Romagna Itinerary & Best of Rimini
• San Marino: Complete Guide to Visiting San Marino
• Italian Lakes:  Lake Garda  & Lake Como &  Bellagio & Best Lakes in the Dolomites
• Italian Mountains:  Best Hikes in the Dolomites & Best Places to Visit in the Dolomites & Best Lakes in the Dolomites
• … for many more places all over the country, see our Italy travel guide .

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Tuesday 27th of June 2023

Thank you so much for the e-bike tour recommendation! It was a last-minute decision for us because we needed a break from the crowds and hustle & bustle of the city. It was the highlight of our time in Rome. My 14-year old really enjoyed himself and it was wonderful to see a different side of Rome.

I'm really glad to hear that, Nicole. We also loved that tour. One of the best memories of the trip for sure. Enjoy the rest of your vacation!

Patricia Marshall

Saturday 20th of May 2023

My friend and I just returned from a 3 week trip to Italy and were in Rome for a week. We were getting overwhelmed while researching things to see and do (outside of the “usual” ie Vatican, Trevi Fountain etc). Then we found this blog. It certainly helped to target unusual and less-touristy places and we were able to check off 11 out of 22. Although the imbedded map couldn’t be used, we pinned each of the places on our own Google map. Thank you so much for doing all the legwork for us.

Monday 22nd of May 2023

Glad to help, Patricia. Happy travels! PS In case anyone else is wondering about the map. You have to save it to your Google account by clicking on the little star icon. However, you do need mobile network coverage or wi-fi in order to use these maps. Regular Google Maps with your personal 'saved' locations can be downloaded and used offline as well. So indeed, if you are unsure about your data coverage, it's best to save the locations of those places that you want to visit in your own personal Google Maps account.

Tuesday 28th of March 2023

hi and thanks so much for such useful hints and info .

how can i print or copy soem of the info on your blog . we are travelling to Rome and want to custom our trip based on some of the info you have provided . is there a subscription ?

Wednesday 29th of March 2023

Hi Tarek, you can just print whatever you need by using Ctrl+p or simply choose print in your browser menu. Have a great trip!

Tuesday 13th of September 2022

We enjoyed some of these places after reading this. Enjoyed the fountain Paola, pamphilj gallery, Malta keyhole and the coppede area. Via Magurtta was not at all nice anymore, tho. It was near to several pretty streets that we went back to time after time, tho. At the paola fountains go to a fine dining place called Antico Arco up the hill a bit from there. It was difficult getting back via taxi from coppede area. Another hidden gem is the Etruscan museum near Villa Borghese. That whole area is beautiful. Went to the modern art museum there. If you have been to modern art places in big cities before you may be disappointed but the horse figures will disrupt your day in not a good way but,hey it is art. Thanks for this site!

Friday 16th of September 2022

Glad to help and thanks for sharing your experience, Heidi. It might be useful to our other readers. PS We just passed Via Margutta a few months ago and I found it quite nice to see. It's not something I'd go out of my way for, but that's the area most people visit anyway, so why not walk through... Happy travels!

Sunday 27th of March 2022

Hi, thanks so much for this writeup! This exactly the type of exploring and discovering that my husband and I love to do. A few questions: This is our first time to Italy. We're trying to squeeze in a week-long trip as our 2nd honeymoon/babymoon before our baby comes in July. I'll be 26 weeks pregnant when I visit and am prone to foot pain after a few hours of walking. How do you recommend that we tour? I'm leaning toward Rome>Florence>Siena>Tuscany towns> and then flying out of Rome or whatever is cheapest and accessible within 3 hours. Your suggestions will be greatly appreciated! xo

@Jurga, the taxis are cheap here…

Monday 28th of March 2022

Hi Yonit, there are always ways to visit the cities depending on your interests and abilities. If you can't walk a long time, maybe you can opt for a let's say a golf-cart tour or a hop-on hop-off bus. But these will usually cover the main sights and not the off-the-beaten-path places. In general, you'll have to walk quite a lot in order to experience Rome. But you could limit the walking by planning your itinerary in such a way that you concentrate on just one area and visit many sights that are close to each other. Still, there's really no way to avoid walking - pretty much anything you do will involve quite some walking, some steps, and lots of cobblestones. For the other cities, it's pretty much the same situation, except that they are smaller than Rome and most highlights are concentrated closer to each other. Also, depending on when you travel, keep in mind that it can very warm and sightseeing can be exhausting. So make an itinerary that you're comfortable with, wear comfortable shoes, have sun protection, and maybe get a hotel with a pool where you can rest in the afternoons, etc. Your itinerary sounds ok, but it also depends a bit on how you travel. If you are traveling by train and don't want to change hotels/ carry luggage too often, you could just stay in e.g. Rome and Florence (3-4 days each), and then make day trips from Florence to the other places (by train or by tour, depending on what you want to see). Plan some free time for gelatos and long lunches, pool, etc., and make it into a more relaxing vacation without necessarily trying to see it 'all'. You'll love it either way. Good luck with the planning! PS Just last week I stumbled upon this hotel in Rome that looks perfect for a luxury honeymoon/babymoon. I haven't seen anything quite similar in Florence, but for my own trip in a few weeks, I have this hotel booked which also looks very nice for a combination of sightseeing and relaxing vacation.

When in Rome: 15 things you must do in the capital of Italy

Posted: November 8, 2023 | Last updated: November 8, 2023

At this point, is there anything we can say about Rome that hasn't already been said? The famous city has been drawing in tourists, romantics, and artists for centuries, and has been the star of more movies than Marcello Mastroianni himself. It's a film come to life, an endless stream of ancient ruins, piazzas, and restaurants that never seems to lose its charm. Looking for a list of the best things to do here? Look no further. 

You likely already know, have seen, or heard about the Colosseum. It is the largest amphitheater ever built, and, if you have the chance to explore inside, one of the most impressive things you can see in Rome. The arena that once housed gladiator battles and executions is now a maze of tunnels, columns, and dust. The best views can be found on the 5th level, which offers panoramic views of the theater. 

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Let's be clear: Rome's Pantheon is not just another temple. It is the city's most important landmark, built in 125 AD and boasting some of the most epic pillars on earth. These things make the White House look small, and no trip is complete without a picture of its facade. 

Follow us on MSN to see more of our exclusive lifestyle content.

The Spanish Steps

Walking is the perfect way to burn off pasta, so the Spanish Steps make for a perfect afternoon activity. The staircase connecting Piazza di Spagna to the Spanish Embassy is filled with magical sights, from kids splashing in the fountain to emeralds glowing in the embassy. 

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The Vatican

The Vatican is home to one of the largest and most important art collections in the world and is set across 54 galleries, courtyards, and hallways. You'll find countless works of art by artists like Raphael and Michelangelo, whose Sistine Chapel remains the GOAT of frescos. You get goosebumps just looking at Jesus reach out to Adam--the entire history of man at their fingertips. 

Felice a Testaccio

Did we mention Rome might have invented cacio e pepe? Whether the stories are true or not, the city's restaurants all serve their own version of this signature dish. The best place to order one of these plates is at Felice a Testaccio, which prepares the pasta in front of you and has graciously located itself outside of town. You're going to need a long walk after this one. 

You may also like: 20 slow-cooker recipes with six ingredients or fewer

Rome is full of quaint neighborhoods but, with all the sightseers, not many will offer you a proper taste of bohemian life. For that, cross the river to Trastevere: home to street markets, local bars, restaurants, and apartments, and more alleys than all the canals in Venice. Get lost in the maze of streets that make up this section of town--then, after you spend a couple of hours walking, stop in for drinks at one of the many outdoor bars. 

Rome Opera House

Since its founding by Domenico Costanzi in the late 19th century, the Rome Opera House has remained one of the finest opera houses in Europe. We recommend you stop by for an opera or if you find that too snooty, check out one of the many fashion shows put on by brands like Dior. Is that too snooty for you? Take a tour instead, which will give you access to the neo-classical design. 

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Piazza Novana

You can't visit Rome and not spend at least a couple of hours in a piazza. The best place to do so is Piazza Navona, an area surrounded by restaurants, fountains, and ancient statues. Here, you can grab a bite or an Aperol spritz, and take a second to relax while the rest of the world goes by. 

Forum Hotel Bar

Grab a drink at the same place actors like Julia Roberts and Richard Gere frequent, on the rooftop of one of Rome's most prestigious hotels. Located just above the Roman Forum--the ruins next to the Colosseum--this spot is perfect for those looking to take a second to unwind. Many only come here for an Instagram photo, but the best thing you can do here is to spend a couple of hours in the company of silence. 

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Baths of Caracalla

This oasis was once a public bathing complex in the third century. Now, it's open year-round for visitors to wander its many ruins, fields, and arches. Each summer, the Roman opera performs at the baths to sold-out crowds. Those lucky enough to get tickets are treated to a once-in-a-lifetime experience. 

Tiber River

Does anyone here like sunsets? Thought so. If you're in Italy, you'll probably want to see a sunset at some point, which means you should probably head down to the Tiber river at golden hour. There's a great view from the river itself, though we recommend you stand on the bridge to watch the eternal city swirl into an eternal haze. 

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Dormus Aurea

Emperor Nero's pad was once considered the Playboy Mansion of Rome. Built between 64-68 AD, the underground mansion was home to some of the wildest parties in town before it was abandoned completely. The site is under restoration, but visitors can join guided tours on Saturdays and Sundays to see what made this place so unique. 

Trevi Fountain

Often referred to as "The Three Street Fountain," the Trevi Fountain is an excellent example of the city's regional art. Located at the intersection of three streets, this fountain draws in visitors from all sides of Rome. Its statues are a lineup of masterpieces from Nicola Salvi, but the real reason everyone is here is because of Federico Fellini, who shot the famous scene of Marcello Mastroianni and Anita Ekberg lapping in the pool at midnight. 

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Stadio Olimpico

Move over, American football. The crowds of 70,000 that cram into Stadio Olimpico make the Superbowl sound like a high school game. Even people who find soccer boring can't help but be blown away by the noise. 

St. Peter's Basilica

St Peter's Basilica is a church built by some of Rome's greatest architects. It is the most renowned piece of Renaissance construction, with contributions from Michelangelo, Maderno, and Bramante, and houses one of Rome's most dramatic squares. On the way to the top, you'll get a birds-eye view of both the square and the Vatican chapels. 

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My first stop is Naples , where I’ll be for a few days. From there, my thought is to rent a car and drive 3 1/2 hours (estimated) to Pisticci where I’ll be staying for a week. I’ll want to have my rental car to explore the area while I’m in the Pisticci area. Afterwards, I plan to go to Rome for a few days.

My biggest concern is traveling from Pisticci to Rome.

My questions:

Is it best/quickest to rent a car in Naples, and drive to Pisticci, and subsequently drive to Rome and return the car in Rome? Or is there a train option I am overlooking?

My goal is to minimize my travel time and connections between cities/regions (wanting to travel as direct as possible in the least amount of time).

My (likely flawed) thought process:

-The drive from Pisticci to Rome looks about 5 1/2 hours, which looks comparable in time to taking a train.

-Looking at train options around Pisticci, I think options would take anywhere from 4 hours 45 minutes to 5 1/2 hours. However, I’m am wholly unfamiliar with how best to book train transit within Italy, so please forgive my ignorance and lack of knowledge here.

Are there other options I’m missing? I’m hoping to have a shorter trip from Pisticci to Rome, but I’m unsure if there are any other methods I’m missing, aside from just driving about 5 1/2 hours.

Thank you in advance for any advice and input! I appreciate any guidance.

7 replies to this topic

Sounds wonderful.

You could conceivably do the same thing out of Naples, but you have to be very careful driving out of the city and I always choose easy.

See train times on the Trenitalia or Italotren website.

I drove through Pisticci once. I was leaving Matera for Lecce , and stopped for a tour in Craco (highly recommend). We drove up into Pisticci to grab some lunch and sit out a torrrential downpour.

Just to ask, is there a comparable city to Salerno that might be an even closer drive to Pisticci, and also has a short train route to Rome? Checking Google Maps, driving from Salerno to Pisticci looks about 2.5 hours, which is 100% achievable, but I’m just trying to gather all information possible to make the best decision. Salerno may very well be our solution here though! Thank you again for all your valuable insights!

Hi Elstravels, thank you for that bit of knowledge and awareness regarding Sundays! I will absolutely plan around it.

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