15 Best Things to do in Rome

Rome – the Eternal City – is one of the most historically and culturally significant cities in the world. The art and architecture are incredibly well-preserved, making it one of the best places to go back in time. Whether you want to delve into the history of the iconic Roman Empire or just want to eat some yummy food, Rome is a great destination for you.

As the capital city of Italy, it offers a huge variety of delectable food, which is one of my personal favourite things to try while traveling.

I also have a deep interest in mythology, so to be able to visit the sites of so many happenings in Roman myths has been a dream come true.

When visiting a destination that has so much to do, it can be overwhelming to plan a trip. That’s why I’ve compiled this list detailing the best things to do in Rome.

1. See the colosseum

The colosseum is by far the most famous landmark in Italy, and probably one of the most well-known in the world. The amphitheatre was an architectural breakthrough at the time it was built and is mostly known as the location of the gladiatorial games. Now, it mostly serves as a tourist attraction and a symbol of Rome’s legacy and power.

Like many sites in Rome, the colosseum can evoke deep emotional reactions, because of its historical significance in the development of society.

Of course, as the most famous attraction in the entire country, the colosseum is always sold out well in advance. There are always long queues and massive crowds, so planning your trip properly is essential.

Here are some good tips to help make your trip as smooth and memorable as possible:

Arrive early to avoid the majority of the crowds.
Don’t bring huge bags or sharp objects to make the security check at the entrance easier and faster.
Weapons, aerosol sprays, and glass containers are not allowed inside.
Buy tickets in advance.
Consider paying a bit extra for skip-the-line tickets.
Wear comfortable clothes and shoes, because there will be a lot of walking on uneven surfaces.
Audio guides are available and will enrich your experience.
Bring a reusable water bottle and refill it at fountains nearby.
There are toilet facilities in the colosseum, but the line get VERY long, so pee beforehand.
Bring your camera!

Tickets

You can buy tickets on the official website. The tickets that are available include:

Individual Tickets: 1 to 8 people
Group Tickets: 9 to 25 people
Guided Tours
Night Tours: For a unique experience with fewer crowds, buy tickets for a night tour here.
Combination tours: This ticket, valid for 24 hours, grants you entry to the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill.
Entry to the Arena
Entry to the Underground Levels and the Arena
Entry to the Attic

2. Take a cooking class

Food is an integral part of any culture. Italy, of course, is famous all over the world for its amazing dishes, like pizza, pasta, gelato, and so much more. Taking a cooking class will help you get a deeper understanding of the people and the culture of Italy. It’s also a great way to meet new people, both locals and other travelers.

When I visited Rome, I took a pasta and tiramisu cooking class. It was by far my favourite experience I had in the city. The specific tour I took was with Eat and Walk Italy, which was fanstastic. In the class, we made fettucine, ravioli, and tiramisu, but they have others available, like a gelato workshop and a pizza class. The teacher was funny and made the class interactive and exciting. After the class, we sat down to enjoy our meals and even got some limoncello.

There are also a lot of ‘drunken’ cooking classes available. Along with the class, you’ll be able to enjoy handmade spritzes or Italian wine. Others include a visit to the local market, where you can choose local ingredients you want to cook with.

With a cooking class, you have the added bonus of being able to go home with new skills, recipes, and a better understanding of the culinary scene in Italy. It is also just a great bonding experience for you and your partner, family, or friends.

3. Take a day trip to Vatican City

Vatican City, the smallest country in the world, is situated in Rome. As the home of the Pope and the heart of the Roman Catholic Church, it may be particularly appealing to anyone interested in religion. However, it is also a great destination for lovers of art, history, and architecture.

One of the most famous sights in Vatican City is the Sistine Chapel, which is home to the painter Michelangelo’s most famous works, namely The Creation of Adam and The Last Judgment. You’ll also be able to see some of Raphael’s work (that’s two of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles in one trip!). The Vatican Museums also feature a wide variety of sculptures and historical artifacts.

You can even visit the Vatican to be part of the Papal Audience, where you can receive the Pope’s blessings.

Due to its location, Vatican City makes for a perfect day or half-day trip from Rome (or actually, in Rome). For a full, in-depth guide on how to plan such a trip, visit my blog post here.

4. Make a wish at the Trevi Fountain

Rome is full of ancient sculptures and buildings, and one thing you’ll definitely see a lot of is fountains. The most famous of these is the Trevi Fountain. It is one of the city’s must-visit landmarks, that was originally built in 19 B.C. as a water supply for Rome.

In the centre of the fountain, you’ll be greeted by the iconic sculpture of Neptune (the Roman god of the sea), surrounded by his symbols – tritons and horses.

One of the things the fountain is known for is the tradition of tossing a coin into it over your left shoulder with your right hand to ensure that you come back to Rome (to be honest, I always thought that you could make a wish, but apparently not).

Of course, this is something most of us know from movies, like Federico Fellini’s ‘La Dolce Vita’, or, my personal favourite, Lizzie McGuire the Movie. So, make sure you bring a coin to have your Lizzie moment and maybe you’ll end up finding your own Italian popstar doppelganger?

Once a week, the coins are taken out of the fountain. All the money is donated to charity – which adds up to more than €1 million per year.

Do not try to go into the fountain! It is strictly prohibited, and is punishable by a fine of 500€.

Because it gets so crowded with tourists, the Trevi Fountain is one of the top spots in Rome for pickpocketers, so stay aware of your surroundings and keep an eye on your things at all times.

When to go to the Trevi Fountain

Keep in mind that this is one of the most visited sights in Rome, so the crowds are here all day. If you want to avoid them, arrive at the fountain as early as possible – I’d even suggest coming at around 6 a.m., because after that, the tourists come and they don’t clear out until late into the night. Usually on Saturday mornings, the fountain is completely drained and cleaned, so try to avoid going then.

5. Visit Palatine Hill

Palatine Hill is the most famous of the Seven Hills of Rome and is believed to be the place where the city began. In Roman mythology, it was the place where the she-wolf found the founders of Rome – the twin brothers Romulus and Remus.

On Palatine Hill, there are a variety of landmarks that you can visit:

Domus Augustana: The home of the first Roman emperor, Augustus, where you can see ancient murals and artifacts.
Domus Flavia: The section of the Imperial Palace that is open for public viewing.
Stadium of Domitian: A stadium that was possibly used to host performances or athletic events in Ancient Roman times.
House of Livia: The residence of Emperor Augustus’ wife, Livia Drusilla.
Farnese Gardens: Beautiful gardens that offer phenomenal views of the Roman Forum and the Colosseum.

Palatine Hill is a great sight to combine with the Roman Forum and the Colosseum. There are separate tickets available for each of the landmarks, but I’d highly recommend getting a combination ticket. The ticket is valid for 24 hours, so you can take your time to explore all three sights.

6. Walk down the Spanish Steps

The Spanish Steps are another one of those must-visit spots in Rome. They are a massive set of 135 steps that connect the fabulous Piazza di Spagna (Spanish Square) to the Trinità dei Monti church. At the top of the steps, you’ll get a magnificent view of the city – a great place to enjoy the sunset or at night. The steps are also said to be one of the most romantic spots in Rome, so it is beloved by couples, especially those on honeymoon.

Like many landmarks on this list, the Spanish Steps are features in many well-known movies, which make them especially popular among movie buffs. Some of these movies include Roman Holiday, Eat Pray Love, and The Talented Mr. Ripley.

Combine a visit to the Spanish Steps with the Trevi Fountain. It’s only a 10-minute walk between these two iconic sights! Alternatively, you can window shop at some of the most famous fashion houses worldwide on the streets surrounding the piazza – Dio, Prada, Dolce & Gabbana, and lots more!

Take note that sitting on the steps is not allowed, because of the sheer amount of tourists that are constantly flooding the area. But it’s still a great place to people-watch from a nearby café.

7. Visit the Catacombs of Rome

The catacombs of Rome are a ancient burial places underneath the city. They may be particularly interesting to anyone interested in history, archaeology, and early practices of Christianity. It is a very different type of experience than the above-ground attractions everyone buzzes about.

Some of the catacombs are open to the public, including:

Catacombs of San Callisto: One of the biggest and most well-known catacombs, which includes art galleries as well as tombs of about half a million Christians, including famous popes and martyrs.
Catacombs of San Sebastiano: These catacombs are located along the Appian Way and feature ancient Christian wall art and artifacts.
Catacombs of Domitilla: Some of the oldest catacombs, which are known for their well-preserved frescoes and are the only catacombs with an underground basilica.
Catacombs of Priscilla: Also known for its frescoes, particularly one of the earliest paintings of the Virgin Mary.

Because they’re a bit more ‘off the beaten path’, tickets to the catacombs are cheaper than a lot of other sights in Rome. I’d recommend booking a guided tour for the most immersive experience. Visit the links above to find out more about and to book tickets to the respective catacombs.

Make sure to check the guidelines and opening times of the specific catacombs you want to visit, because they are different for each one.

Before you decide to visit the catacombs of Rome, make sure that you’re up for the challenge, because it really isn’t for everyone. If it matches your personal interests, though, it makes for a fantastic, less touristy site. If you’re claustrophobic, get scared easily, or have mobility issues, the catacombs may not be the best option for you. Many parts of the catacombs are small, dark spaces, steep stairs, or uneven ground.

8. Visit Testaccio Market

The Testaccio Market is a food market with a vibrant atmosphere in the heart of Rome. It is a fantastic place to get a deeper understanding of Italian cuisine and to chat with locals. The market has over 100 stalls that sell Italian foods, including bread, cheese, seafood, and produce. It is a great place to taste and buy some authentic Italian ingredients. You can also find specialty items like local wine or olive oil.

Many stalls also offer ready-to-eat meals. Some of the must-visit stalls include:

Mordi e Vai: Known for its boiled beef paninis (sandwiches).
Casa Manco: A stall that specialises in gourmet pizza by the slice with unique toppings.
Da Artenio: Sells Roman street food like porchetta (roast pork) and supplì (fried rice balls).
Le Mani in Pasta: Serves freshly made pasta dishes like carbonara and cacio e pepe.

Make sure to start your day early if you want to avoid standing in long queues at every stall. The market is open Monday to Saturday. from 7a.m. to 2p.m. Also bring enough cash, because some vendors don’t accept card payment.

9. Take a walk through the Orange Garden (Giardino degli Aranci)

The Orange Garden is a lush, peaceful haven in busy city of Rome. From its terraces and observation deck, you can admire panoramic views of Rome. It is one of the best places to watch the sunset, while breathing in the fresh citrus scent of the orange trees.

Though they may smell good, the oranges in the garden are not meant for eating. They have a very bitter taste and are mainly used in foods like marmelade or orange liqueur.

It is one of the most beautiful spots in the city and the best part – it’s completely free! During spring and summer, the gardens are open from 7a.m. to 9p.m., and from 7a.m. to 6p.m. during fall and winter.

10. Go shopping on Via del Corso

If you’re a bit of a shopaholic, or a fashion girlie^TM, Via del Corso is a great spot to spend some of your time in Rome. It is one of the city’s most famous streets, particularly beloved by anyone who enjoys shopping (or even just window shopping).

Don’t worry, though there it houses high-end, luxury brands (like Swarovski, Furla, and Liu Jo), it also has more affordable, ‘normal’ options for us mere mortals, including Zara, H&M, and KIKO Milano.

Try to avoid coming to Via del Corso during the middle of the day and on weekends, as this is when it is the most crowded.

From here, you can visit a lot of great landmarks on foot. Combine your shopping trip with a visit to the Pantheon, Trevi Fountain, and the Spanish Steps.

11. Have Gelato

Gelato is one of the most delectable, indulgent foods you absolutely HAVE to try in Italy! It is a key part of Italian cuisine, and therefore the culture.

Unfortunately, there are a lot of tourist-targeted gelaterias that do not serve authentic gelato. Many shops use commercial mixes and market them in ways that make them seem authentic.

What to look out for when looking for authentic gelato:

Artisanal Gelaterias: Pay attention to the signs outside the gelato shop. If you see phrases like ‘gelato artigianale’ or ‘fatto in casa’, it means that the shop uses traditional and authentic recipes, ingredients, and methods to make their gelato in-house.
The Height of the Gelato: If the gelato is piled up super high, with toppings as decoration, it is a sign that they are made to be flashy and contain a lot of stabilisers.
The Colour of the Gelato: Bright colours usually indicate artificial colour and flavours, i.e. not made with the real flavour ingredient. The colour should agree with the actual ingredient listed as the flavour. For example, banana gelato should not be bright yellow, but rather have an off-white colour.
The Number of available flavours: When I visited Rome, I saw some shops advertise that they have sell than 100 flavours of gelato – this is not what you want. It is impossible for any gelateria to make that many flavours themselves, so it probably means that most (if not all) of the flavours are commercially made.
The Seasonality of the flavours: Try to pay attention to seasonal ingredients in gelato flavours, e.g. using melon in summer and chestnuts during winter is an indication that fresh ingredients are used in the gelato.
The Container: If the gelato is closed in a stainless steel tub or drum, it probably means that the gelato is fresh and the shop is trying to keep it fresh until it is served. If the gelato is exposed to open air, it is not a great sign.

Which gelaterias should you try out in Rome?

Come il Latte: Known to be super creamy and have lots of different flavours.
La Gelateria Frigidarium: Rich flavours and chocolate-dipped cones.
Gelateria del Teatro: Unique flavours and local ingredients.
Giolitti: Near the Pantheon, this is one of the oldest and most well-known gelaterias in Rome.
Fatamorgana: Has creatively flavoured and gluten-free options.

12. See the Pantheon

The Pantheon is another one of those iconic sights that you cannot miss on your visit to Italy. It is a key part of the rich history of Rome and was originally constructed as a temple to the Roman gods.

The structure consists of a huge dome with an opening on top that lets in natural light. At the time of its construction, it was revolutionary in the world of architecture. The interior is spectacular, featuring marble floors and huge coloumns, exactly how you would imagine a classic Roman temple.

The Pantheon is open daily from 9am to 7pm and the last entry is allowed at 6:30pm. It is used to be free, but starting on 3 July 2023, paid tickets are required. An adult ticket is 9,80€, and you can buy it at the door or online. Only on every first Sunday of the month, entry is free.

Sometimes, the Pantheon hosts events. Check the official website if you’re interested in attending an event at the magnificent venue.

Remember that the Pantheon is an active church, so dressing and behaving appropriately is important. Shoulders and knees have to be covered, and it is expected that visitors are respectful and not disturbing to the space.

13. Admire the view of Rome from a rooftop

Seeing any city from a rooftop can help you gain appreciation for its beauty. Rome, particularly, is full of incredible architecture that is absolutely stunning from a panoramic view. Luckily, the city is full of rooftop gardens, bars, and public platforms that allow you to admire its skyline in proper fashion.

Here are a few bars and restaurants with fantastic views of Rome:

Hotel Raphael: Great view of St Peter’s Basilica and the Pantheon.
La Terrazza del Cesàri: A bar that serves great cocktails with a lounge, also on the rooftop.
Eitch Borromini: Overlooks the dome of Sant’Agnese in Agone.

All of these are open to the public, but I’d recommend booking a table, especially if you plan on going around sunset or plan on having food.

Some of the best viewing platforms are:

St Peter’s Basilica Dome: In Vatican City, overlooks St Peter’s Square and Rome.
Castel Sant’Angelo: The best views of the Tiber River and Vatican City.
Altare della Patria: Spectacular views of all of Rome from the upper terraces.

All of the viewing platforms have an entrance fee, which you can pay when you get there.

14. Take a tour through the city on a Vespa

There are many fun ways to do some sightseeing in Rome – but I think this one takes the cake. Isn’t is everyone’s dream to ride a Vespa through the Eternal City?

On a Vespa tour, you’ll make stops at many important sights with (or without, but I recommend with) a knowledgable, local guide. You can choose to ride by yourself or with a guide, so don’t worry if you don’t know how to drive a scooter.

Most companies have requirements for this tour, so read up on the different ones to find the one that’ll suit you best. For example, the drivers of the vehicles must have a valid driver’s license. If it is not in Italian or English, make sure to bring an International Driver’s Permit. Additionally, many companies have an age requirement of 18 years.

Make sure to check the weather before you pick a day for this tour, because rain isn’t exactly optimal. Also wear closed shoes and comfortable clothes for the best experience and make sure to bring a light jacket if you get cold easily.

Types of tours

Which stops you make will depend on the route you choose:

Classic Rome Highlights Tour (3-4 hours): Perfect for first-time visitors, this tour takes you to most of the major sites (Colosseum, Trevi Fountain, Roman Forum, Pantheon, Spanish Steps, Piazza Navona).
Ancient Rome Tour (2-3 hours): Perfect for anyone particularly interested in the history of Rome. Takes you mostly to ancient and historical sites (Colosseum, Circus Maximus, Baths of Caracalla, Appian Way).
Romantic Evening Tour (2-3 hours): Ideal for couples, this tour visits the most romantic spots in the city (Gianicolo Hill, Pincio Terrace, Aventine Hill, Trastevere).
Hidden Gems Tour (3-4 hours): For anyone looking for less well-known and more local spots (Testaccio Market, Coppedè District, Villa Torlonia, Quartiere Coppedè).

Depending on the tour company you choose, there may be other options available. Check the websites for more information and to book your tour. The most reputable companies are:

15. Take a day trip

Rome is a great starting point for so many different day trips. I’d highly recommend getting away from the big city and see a bit of the Italian countryside.

Some of the best day trips you can take from Rome are:

1. Amalfi Coast

On the Amalfi Coast, there are many beautiful seaside towns that would be the perfect break to any Rome trip. It’s a bit further from Rome than any of the other destinations listed, but it’s well worth it. For this reason, though, it’s best to pick a main town you want to visit and keep the others as a back-up, in case you have more time than expected.

Some of the most popular towns to visit on the Amalfi Coast are Amalfi, Positano, and Ravello. Positano is probably the most famous, known for its picturesque pastel houses built on steep cliffs. Amalfi is a more historic town, which has a stunning cathedral and its enchanting streets. Ravello is known for its lush green gardens overlooking the ocean.

To get to the Amalfi Coast from Rome, you’ll have to start by taking a train to Naples (1hr 10min). Then, take a second train to Sorrento (1hr 10min). Lastly, you’ll have to take either the bus or ferry to whichever town you want to visit (between 40 minutes and 2 hours).

Because of the travel time, you’ll have to start your journey very early. You can also consider staying overnight in one of the towns if you want to see a bit more of the area. Naples and Pompeii are also nearby, so they would make a perfect addition to this trip.

2. Naples

Naples – the home of the world’s favourite food – pizza! Even though this isn’t exactly ‘getting away from the city’, it is a really great place to visit. Naples is known for its street culture, including delicious food and beautiful art.

Of course, if you only do one thing in Naples, you have to try traditional pizza. As its birthplace, this is the best place in the entire world to try proper, authentic pizza. Some reputable pizzerias include L’Antica, Pizzeria da Michele, and Sorbillo.

Trains regularly leave Rome to Naples. The train ride takes about 1 hour 10 minutes.

3. Pompeii

Pompeii is great for anyone who is interested in history and geography. But it’s also ideal for someone who wants to climb to the crater of Mount Vesuvious, one of the most famous volcanoes in the world.

The easiest and fastest way to get from Rome to Pompeii is via train. Take the train to Naples, then take the local train (Circumvesuviana) to Pompeii, which is a 35 to 40 minute trip.

You can buy tickets directly at the entrance to Pompeii, and choose between a self-guided and a guided tour. Afterwards, you can spend the day exploring all the attractions, including the Pompeii Antiquarium, the Amphitheatre, Forum, Villa of the Mysteries, and House of the Faun.

Alternatively, you can take a guided tour. Tour companies that offer trips, transport included, to many of these destinations. Check GetYourGuide or Viator to find out more about and book tickets for the day trips that are available. Keep in mind that this option will probably be more expensive than planning your own trip.