Rome probably hides more wonders than any other city in Italy, maybe even in all of Europe. As the birthplace of one of history’s most powerful empires, the Eternal City has long been a beacon of art, architecture, and culture, inspiring the most talented artists and visionaries for centuries. From iconic Roman ruins and jaw-dropping ancient buildings to awe-inspiring churches adorned with priceless frescoes, every corner of Rome feels like a living museum. And just beyond the city limits, the Lazio region invites you to slow down and savor its flavors, with Italy wine tours that let you taste the best of the region’s reds and whites, right where they’re made. With so much to do in Rome and see, where do you even begin? We’ve rounded up the top attractions and experiences to help you make the most of your Roman holiday and ensure it’s nothing short of unforgettable.
Table of Contents
What are the best things to do in Rome?
Wander around the Colosseum
The Colosseum, Rome’s most iconic landmark, is an unmissable stop on any visit to the Eternal City. Built in AD 80, this colossal amphitheater once echoed with the roar of crowds watching gladiator battles and epic public spectacles. Wandering through its grand arches and exploring the underground chambers where fighters once prepared for combat gives a vivid glimpse into ancient Roman life. To make the most of your visit, go early in the morning or late in the afternoon, when the golden light casts dramatic shadows over the arena and the crowds are thinner.
Explore the Roman Forum
Right next to the Colosseum, the Roman Forum is where ancient Rome spilled all its secrets, politics, gossip, business deals, and divine drama included. Once the buzzing heart of Roman life, this vast site is now a dreamy maze of ruins where you can stroll past the Temple of Saturn, the Arch of Titus, and the House of the Vestal Virgins while imagining toga-clad citizens debating laws or buying olives. For the full effect (and fewer head-scratches), grab an audio guide or join a tour, bonus: combo tickets often include Colosseum access too.
Visit the Pantheon
Visiting the Pantheon is like stepping into Rome’s greatest architectural feat. Built back in AD 126 to honor all Roman gods, this ancient wonder still stuns with its gigantic dome, the largest unreinforced concrete dome in the world (yep, still unbeaten). Walk through the grand columns like a Roman VIP, and look up at the oculus, the perfectly placed hole in the ceiling that lights up the whole space like divine spotlighting. It’s still an active church, so you’re admiring 2,000 years of history and catching a bit of sacred atmosphere. One of the coolest, most mind-blowing things to do in Rome.
Discover Vatican City and St. Peter’s Basilica
Vatican City might be the world’s tiniest country, but it’s bursting with some of the biggest artistic and spiritual treasures on the planet. Kick things off at St. Peter’s Basilica, an architectural masterpiece where you can marvel at Michelangelo’s Pietà and even climb to the dome for jaw-dropping views. Then dive into the Vatican Museums, a maze of masterpieces from the Raphael Rooms to the jaw-dropping Gallery of Maps. And of course, the grand finale: the Sistine Chapel, where Michelangelo’s ceiling still leaves every visitor speechless. It’s an unforgettable deep dive into art, history, and faith, all packed into one mighty microstate.
Admire the Sistine Chapel
Admiring the Sistine Chapel is one of those “wow” moments that stays with you forever. Tucked inside the Vatican Museums, this sacred space stuns with Michelangelo’s jaw-dropping ceiling, a swirling masterpiece of biblical scenes, including the famous Creation of Adam finger-touch moment. As you step in, the silence, the scale, and the color hit all at once (no photos allowed, so your eyes have to do the work). It’s not just an artistic treasure, it’s a moment of awe, beauty, and reflection. Easily one of the most powerful things to do in Rome, and yes, it’s totally worth the neck cramp.
Toss a Coin in the Trevi Fountain
Tossing a coin into the Trevi Fountain isn’t just tradition, it’s a rite of passage. Legend says a single coin means you’ll return to Rome, two means you’ll fall in love, and three… well, let’s just say it gets spicy. This Baroque beauty, finished in 1762 and featuring Neptune commanding the waters, is pure theatrical grandeur. Come early or swing by late to dodge the crowds and catch the fountain in its most magical light. Tucked into one of Rome’s coziest corners, surrounded by gelato shops and cobbled alleys, it’s a must-stop moment you won’t forget, just don’t forget your spare change.
Stroll in Villa Borghese Gardens
Need a break from Rome’s glorious chaos? Head to Villa Borghese Gardens, where locals picnic, couples rent rowboats, and squirrels casually photobomb your selfies. This lush green oasis sprawls just above Piazza del Popolo and offers everything from shaded walking paths and quirky fountains to romantic corners and open-air cafés. You’ll also find the elegant Galleria Borghese (hello, Caravaggio!), the Bioparco zoo, and the stunning Pincian Terrace, perfect for catching a golden-hour view over the city. It’s the kind of place where you can be lazy or cultured, or both.
Enjoy the view from Janiculum Hill
Janiculum Hill isn’t just a hill, it’s Rome’s ultimate lookout point. Locates just across the Tiber, this panoramic perch gives you front-row seats to the city’s skyline, from St. Peter’s Basilica to the dome-studded historic center. It’s where you go when you want to see all of Rome without fighting the crowds. Bring a camera, a snack, and someone you like (or just your best playlist). Along the way, you’ll stumble across statues, fountains, and a touch of patriotic history. Easily reached by a scenic walk or quick bus ride, it’s the kind of spot that makes you pause, breathe, and go: wow.
Sip an Espresso at Piazza Navona
Piazza Navona is where Rome’s elegance meets its everyday charm. Grab an espresso (or gelato, no judgment) and watch the city unfold around you, street performers, sketch artists, and locals breezing by like it’s all choreographed. Built on an ancient Roman stadium, this Baroque beauty is anchored by Bernini’s dramatic Fountain of the Four Rivers, with its swirling marble and splash of myth.
Dine in Trastevere
Trastevere isn’t just a neighborhood, it’s Rome’s cool, slightly rebellious cousin who always smells like espresso and freshly baked pizza. With its tangled cobblestone alleys, medieval walls, and laundry flapping overhead, it feels like a movie set you accidentally wandered into. But the real plot twist? The food. Start with a plate of silky cacio e pepe at a local trattoria, chase it with a fried supplì or two, then wrap things up with a scoop of pistachio gelato that’ll ruin all other gelatos for you. The night doesn’t end there, wine bars spill onto the streets, guitars get strummed, and suddenly you’re deep in Roman magic you didn’t even plan.
Shop and aat at Campo de’ Fiori Market
Campo de’ Fiori bursts into life each morning with crates of sun-ripened fruit, wheels of cheese, and vendors shouting over the scent of fresh herbs. It’s the kind of place where you grab a slice of still-warm focaccia in one hand and a handful of olives in the other without breaking your stride. Between the colorful produce and handmade pasta, you’ll find plenty of delicious reasons to fill your bag, and maybe your suitcase. Around the square, cafés and wine bars spill into the cobblestones, perfect for a post-market espresso or glass of Frascati.
Enjoy the best gelato in Rome
No visit to Rome is complete without a gelato stop, and Gelateria del Teatro is pure frozen magic. Tucked along a quiet cobblestone street near Piazza Navona, this spot churns out dreamy flavors like Sicilian pistachio, Amalfi lemon, and fig with walnut that somehow tastes like sunshine and ancient poetry. Grab a cone and keep strolling, Rome feels even more cinematic with gelato in hand. Classic or wild, creamy or fruity, every scoop here is a love letter to Italian indulgence.
Savor Pizza al Taglio (Pizza by the Slice)
Savoring pizza al taglio, Rome’s beloved pizza by the slice, is basically a rite of passage here. Baked in giant trays and sold by weight, it’s your golden ticket to trying a little bit of everything. Craving margherita? Prosciutto? Zucchini flowers with truffle? Grab them all, no judgment. Local legends like Bonci and Pizzarium serve up next-level flavor combos on a perfectly crisp, airy crust that somehow tastes even better standing at a counter or lounging in a nearby piazza.
Wander through the Galleria Borghese
Wandering through the Galleria Borghese feels like stepping into an art lover’s daydream. Tucked inside the lush Villa Borghese Gardens, this museum is packed wall-to-wall with jaw-dropping works from legends like Caravaggio, Bernini, and Raphael. The real scene-stealers? Bernini’s sculptures, Apollo and Daphne and David practically leap out of the marble with all the drama of a Renaissance soap opera. Every room is a riot of frescoes, gold trim, and artistic genius. Book your tickets early, entry’s limited, and trust us, you’ll want to take your time soaking it all in.
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Visit the Capitoline Museums
Visiting the Capitoline Museums is like flipping through Rome’s greatest hits album, except everything’s original and jaw-droppingly massive. Perched on Capitoline Hill and founded way back in 1471, this is one of the world’s oldest public museums. Inside, you’ll find ancient statues, Renaissance masterpieces, and even medieval oddities. Look out for the famous she-wolf nursing Romulus and Remus (Rome’s wild origin story, literally) and works by Caravaggio and Titian. Even the buildings are iconic, Michelangelo designed the whole setup, including the dramatic staircase and stunning piazza.
Explore the MAXXI
Exploring MAXXI – National Museum of the 21st Century Arts is a must if you’re into bold ideas, modern vibes, and architecture that doesn’t play by the rules. Designed by the legendary Zaha Hadid, this sleek, curving structure in Rome’s Flaminio district feels more like a futuristic spaceship than a museum. Inside, you’ll find rotating exhibitions of contemporary art, photography, and architecture from both Italian and international talents. Expect immersive installations, thought-provoking multimedia, and the kind of creativity that makes you pause mid-scroll. MAXXI also hosts talks, performances, and workshops, so there’s always something buzzing. It’s the perfect cultural reboot between ancient ruins.
Explore underground Rome
Beneath the bustling streets lies a maze of catacombs and crypts, where early Christians once buried their dead in candlelit silence. Wander through the haunting tunnels of San Callisto or San Sebastiano, where ancient tombs line the walls like a forgotten library of lives. And if you’re up for something truly unforgettable (and slightly spine-tingling), the Capuchin Crypt awaits, with its intricate displays made from the bones of friars. It’s weird, it’s wonderful, and it’s 100% Roman. Go with a guide to hear all the juicy (and slightly creepy) backstories.
Visit Bocca della Verità (Mouth of Truth)
Tucked under the portico of Santa Maria in Cosmedin, the Bocca della Verità (Mouth of Truth) is Rome’s most dramatic lie detector. This ancient marble face, with its gaping mouth and wild eyes, dates back to the 1st century and was likely a drain cover or fountain ornament. But legend gave it star power: they say if you stick your hand in its mouth and tell a lie… chomp. Off goes your hand. It’s all in good fun today, but you might still spot a few hesitant tourists testing their honesty.
Walk through the Seven Hills
Trekking across the Seven Hills of Rome is a time machine with epic views. These legendary slopes, Aventine, Caelian, Capitoline, Esquiline, Palatine, Quirinal, and Viminal, are where the story of Rome kicked off. Start at Palatine Hill, birthplace of the city and ancient playground of emperors. Capitoline Hill brings the drama with sweeping views and Renaissance flair (Michelangelo had a hand in the design). On Aventine, you’ll find secret gardens and that famous keyhole peep at St. Peter’s. Each hill has its own vibe, from peaceful parks to Roman ruins. So lace up your comfiest shoes, grab a snack, and let the hills show you what 2,700 years of history looks like, with a side of sunshine.
What are the best things to do around Rome?
Discover the Lazio wine region
Exploring the wine regions around Rome is the perfect excuse to slow down and sip your way through Lazio. Just a short ride from the city, the Castelli Romani hills welcome you with their golden Frascati wines and breezy vineyard views. It’s not just about tasting, though that part’s excellent, it’s also about meeting the winemakers, walking among the vines, and soaking in the countryside charm. Lazio’s wine scene may fly under the radar compared to Tuscany, but that just means fewer crowds and more time to savor.
Wander through the gardens of Tivoli
Escape the Roman buzz with a quick trip to Tivoli, just 22 miles east of the city. This charming hillside town is famous for Villa d’Este, with its dramatic fountains and Renaissance gardens, and Villa Adriana, the ruins of Emperor Hadrian’s massive estate. It’s the perfect place to slow down and enjoy a mix of ancient history, greenery, and spectacular views, all in one afternoon.
Discover all the best things to do and visit Tivoli Italy!
Sip Frascati wines in the hills
(5 miles from Rome, Frascati is the crown jewel of the Castelli Romani hill towns. Known for its breezy piazzas, elegant villas, and stunning views of the Eternal City, it’s a favorite weekend escape for locals. Its charm lies in the mix of noble history, once home to Renaissance popes and Roman aristocrats, and everyday conviviality. The town is also deeply tied to wine culture, having produced its signature white Frascati wines since ancient Roman times. Today, that legacy continues in its vineyards, enotecas, and lively taverns, where history and hospitality flow just like the wine
Visit Frascati Italy, and get the best tips from our team for a complete and ultimate guide!
Good to know before visiting Rome
What is the best month to visit Rome?
Without a doubt, the best time to visit the capital city of Italy, Rome, is from October to April. This is due to tourist crowds, it’s much more enjoyable to explore the city during a quieter time than in busier and hotter months like June or July.
Is Rome worth visiting?
With a massive historical heritage, beautiful exotic fauna, and the authentic Italian way of life, Rome is definitely worth visiting for several days.
How many days do you need to visit Rome?
Rome is such an incredible city, you would be sad not to stay at least 4 full days. From Roman historical buildings, art museums and breathtaking monuments, there is too much to see at once. Plus, daily life in Rome is very enjoyable and rather laid-back, there is plenty to relax in Rome.
Is Rome a walkable city?
Rome is very much pedestrian-friendly. Compared to other European capitals, Rome is rather different: the pedestrian city-center is quite wide, especially during the summer when roads are closed. Even if there are metro-lines, it’s very convenient to go from one point to the other by foot, it’s actually the best way to stumble on hidden pieces of art here and there.
What are the best hotels to stay in Rome?
Rome is absolutely beautiful, any district you choose to stay in will be sublime. Here is a Top 3 overview of the main ones to consider for a perfect stay:
– Hotel Eden Rome (5-star luxury) – A historical hotel offering luxurious rooms, exceptional service, and stunning views of the city.
– The St. Regis Rome (5-star luxury) – Known for its opulent interiors and first-class amenities, this hotel provides a lavish experience.
– Boutique Hotel Campo de’ Fiori (4-star boutique) – A charming boutique hotel located in a vibrant area, perfect for those looking for a unique and intimate stay.
How to get to Rome?
If you are traveling directly to Rome, the best way to arrive there is obviously by plane. Train lines in Italy are also an option, but train trips may be quite long from one Italian city to another. Like all European capital cities, you’ll find many flights that land in Rome from all over the world. For international flights, the main airports are:
– Leonardo da Vinci International Airport: You can take the train (Leonardo Express) or the bus to arrive in Rome. The train is a little more expensive but will take you to your final destination faster, especially considering that traffic in Rome gets bad pretty quickly.
– Rome Ciampino Giovan Battista Airport: from this airport, there are no direct trains to Rome center, so it’s best to take a bus to reach your hotel or apartment.
What are some must-try dishes in Rome?
When visiting Rome, make sure to indulge in these iconic Roman dishes:
– Carbonara – A creamy, egg-based pasta dish made with guanciale and Pecorino Romano cheese.
– Cacio e Pepe – A simple yet flavorful pasta dish featuring Pecorino Romano cheese and black pepper.
– Saltimbocca alla Romana – Tender veal cutlets layered with prosciutto and sage, cooked in white wine.
– Supplì – Deep-fried rice balls typically filled with mozzarella and tomato sauce.
– Carciofi alla Romana – Artichokes prepared with garlic, mint, and parsley, then braised to perfection.
What are the best restaurants in Rome?
Rome is famous for its authentic cuisine, and the following traditional restaurants come highly recommended:
– Trattoria Da Enzo al 29 – A beloved spot for experiencing genuine Roman dishes in a cozy setting.
– Da Felice a Testaccio – Known for its classic recipes and heritage, offering a true taste of Rome.
– Armando al Pantheon – Located near the Pantheon, this restaurant has been serving traditional Roman fare since 1961.
What are the best places not to miss in Rome?
A Roman piazza is an open public space typically found in the heart of Italian cities and towns. They serve as centers of social interaction, with a variety of shops, churches, restaurants, cafes, and other gathering spaces surrounding them. Piazzas can also be used to host festivals or public events. The grandest examples are generally found in the major cities such as Rome, although small villages may still have a piazza even if it isn’t as large or bustling with activity.
1. Piazza di Spagna
Renowned for its 133 steps that have been featured in multiple romantic films. Sitting on the stairs of this unique piazza should be at the top of any Rome bucket list, and it’s definitely an essential part of experiencing Rome like a local! To make it even more fun, grab some ice cream before settling down to take in all the beauty around you.
2. Piazza del Popolo
A little remote next to the main points of interest of the city, but still ranked in this top 3. You’ll find 2 almost identical chapels facing an exotic fauna and flora together with marble statues. It seems a lot for just one piazza, but it’s all there for you to see!
3. Piazza Venezia
From iconic spy movies to the pitter-patter of Vespa traffic, there’s no mistaking the grandeur and charm that radiates from Piazza Venezia. When you visit this area, you can expect a true Italian experience: savory mozzarella paninis from local cafes, as well as a rush of little Vespas gliding across the streets. Live la dolce vita in Rome!
