Looking for the top things to do in Rome? Read further and find out from this post!
Rome, the city of love and culture, is an experience like no other. As you explore this ancient city, you will discover a unique blend of old-world charm and modern sophistication. The cobblestone streets are lined with beautiful Renaissance buildings and elegant sculptures. Everywhere you look, there is something new to take in.
Within Rome’s historic center, you can find some of the most iconic attractions in the world, including the Colosseum, Trevi Fountain, Pantheon, and the Sistine Chapel. Whether admiring the magnificent architecture or taking a stroll along the river bank enjoying a gelato or pizza slice, there’s something for everyone here!
The city is also filled with fascinating historical sites such as churches and palaces that will transport you back in time to learn more about Rome’s rich history and culture. From exploring catacombs to visiting one of Rome’s many museums or art galleries – there is always something new in this vibrant city.
Rome has so much to offer, whether shopping at one of its designer boutiques, enjoying an evening at one of its many theatres or opera houses, or tasting delicious Italian cuisine – it is a feast for the senses! And don’t forget to explore some of its hidden gems – as secret gardens tucked away from view behind ancient walls – that only locals know about!
Overall, Rome is an incredible place where art meets history, where every day brings a memory that will last forever.
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Experiences and top things to do in Rome, Italy
Enjoy a nice meal at Trastevere
A Rome city guide to interesting neighborhoods will list the Trastevere. Due to its proximity to the Tiber River, this place would attract immigrants who eventually settled in the neighborhood. Much later, even wealthy noblemen and artists made this their home.
Therefore, Trastevere today is a fascinating amalgamation of affluence and simplicity. You can walk down its cobbled streets, relax at one of several pubs or restaurants, and go shopping. It is a good opportunity to experience the local life and the vibrant atmosphere on the streets. If you are looking for fun things to do in Rome, make your way to Trastevere.
If you’re interested in food and want to sample some of Rome’s amazing restaurants, don’t forget to visit Trastevere!
Boosting with culture and traditions, you’ll find amazing family-owned restaurants that serve classic Roman dishes such as Carbonara, Roman-style Osso Bucco, pizzas, and some appetizers you can drink with wine!
Trastevere is also a beautiful area in Rome that is a bit far away from the usual touristic places, so come here at night and enjoy a nice dinner or a glass of wine amongst the locals who come here to chill and relax after a day of work.
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Read also: Best Day Trips from Rome: Excursions and Towns Near Rome
Villa Borghese Gardens
Situated right next to the Borghese Villa Complex, these gardens are a real break from the continuous monotony of life. Rome’s points of attractions are never-ending, and the Villa Borghese Gardens are just another addition to them.
Covering almost 200 acres of land, These gardens are one of the largest in Rome and contain some important structures like Borghese Gallery and the Gallery of National Modern Art.
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Read also: Top 10 Easter Holiday Destinations in Europe
Catacombe di San Callisto (Catacombs of St. Callixtus)
If you are looking for something different than the usual, a visit to the Catacombs of St. Callixtus along the Appian Way is one of the top things to do in Rome. It is quite a thrilling experience. Make your way through this underground burial site with several passageways, chambers, and niches.
You can see many tombs here, including the Crypt of the Popes. Frescoes can also be found inside this catacomb. Situated close by are the Catacombs of Domitilla with its large network of underground passageways, tombs, frescoes, and artifacts.
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Read also: Top 15 of the Most Visited Tourist Attractions in Europe
Go on a free walking tour and learn more about Rome’s history
Although the transport system in Rome is effective, it goes without saying that all tourist attractions in Rome are not far from each other and are absolutely walkable.
If it is your first time visiting Rome, we advise that you book a free walking tour on your first day so you’ll get a grasp as to where everything is and as well to learn a bit about the city’s ancient history. The tour guide usually also gives valuable advice on how to get around, what to see, and where to go – all for free!
Of course, although it is free, the tours are often tip-based and even they don’t expect you’ll give anything, it is still a nice gesture to give a bit of something.
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Read also: Top 15 The Most Expensive Cities in Europe That Are Still Worth the Visit
Top Landmarks and attractions in Rome, Italy
Colosseum
The mighty Colosseum was built between 70 – 80AD and is also known as Flavian Amphitheatre. The peak of spectators at these iconic landmarks was calculated by almost 80,000. Your tour can never be worth it if you don’t visit this Rome’s attraction which was used to hold various games, Gladiator battles, and tournaments. Roman Emperors also visited the Colosseum to witness the historic games.
Back in the day, it could accommodate at least 50,000 people. A major entertainment venue for the ancient Romans, this amphitheater staged drama shows, spine-chilling gladiator fights, and fights between man and beast. It was also used for public executions. With 80 entrances, the Colosseum had a tiered seating structure for everyone from kings and knights to the common folk. A visit here is one of the top things to do in Rome.
What’s even better is that the Colosseum is easily accessible to the tourists as it situates close to a metro station northwest of a terminus train station. Visit this historic site and marvel at the enormity of this famous Rome’s highlight.
You can book tickets in advance online. Some tickets give you entry to the Colosseum as well as the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill.
The core hill of the Tiber region, Palatine is one of the most ancient areas making it a great Rome’s highlight for the tourists. You can lay your eyes on the expansion of Rome from this hill that stands 40 meters above the Roman forum.
The ancient Romulus and Remus were first found in Palatine Hill according to Roman mythology. The Flavian Palace and the Temple of Cybele still exist here but not in their original forms of course.
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Read also: Top 20 UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Europe
Roman Forum
Throughout Rome, you can see ruins from the time of the powerful ancient Roman Empire. As you will read in any Rome guide, the Roman Forum used to be the seat of power. A political, commercial and legal center, the site has ruins of ancient government structures making it one of the most interesting places to visit in Rome.
It also has religious buildings from long ago. Travel back in time as you see the glorious ruins including Curia (Senate House), Basilica Aemilia, and the Temple of Caesar. This should make it to every tourist’s list of the best things to do in Rome.
One of the most ancient and important sites contains the ruins of old Roman life where once people and political buildings existed. This place was once a center of colossal temples such as Titus, Saturn, and Vesta also the Arch of Severus.
Most of the structures now stand as ruins, but their foundations and structures are still visible making it an important Rome’s tourist attraction. The Roman Forum is situated next to the Altar of the Fatherland and the Colosseum and depicts the Roman life efficiently.
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Read also: Top 18 Most Iconic Landmarks in Europe
Are you planning your travels? Here’re my top travel resources!
I’m a serial planner both in life and in travel – I have bucket lists, things to do, see, and everything. So, I always love when my life is sorted easily using tools and resources that would make my general planning a little smoother and easier. Therefore, in my many years of traveling the world, I’ve seen myself returning to these travel resources repeatedly. And here I am, sharing my tips to make your life easy and breezy so you can stress less, travel heaps, and focus on the fun part of travel!
- Booking.com – I book all my hotels through this website and don’t honestly use anything else. They always have the best prices, in my opinion.
- Airbnb – If I’m traveling long-term to one destination, I book my flats through Airbnb.
- Skyscanner – The best place to find cheap flights on flexible dates. I use this a lot to score cheap flights within Europe!
- SafetyWing – Always travel insured! Never leave your home country without one. It is worth the extra money, I promise you!
- GetYourGuide – Hands-down, the best place to find cool and unique tours if you don’t feel like winging it, and go straight to a local expert. I use this a lot in new destinations to get acquainted with the area!
- My Pretty Wild World Travel Diary (coming soon) – A book you can write down your travel plans, create itineraries, track down your budget, and dot down memories along the way! A handy book you can keep and read later to revisit memory lane.
- Pretty Wild World Travel Planning Printables (coming soon) – Are you a nut like me when it comes to planning? Yes? Good. My travel planning resource in one zip file is an easy-to-use printable planner that comes with tips that helps you plan your travels during the planning stage, a pre-flight checklist, an itinerary planner, and so on.
Palatine Hill
If you wish to see some of the earliest settlements in Rome, explore Palatine Hill. Situated a few meters above the Roman Forum, a visit to this site is one of the must-do activities in Rome. Excavations point to the existence of a human settlement around the ninth or tenth century BC.
A seat of Roman emperors, you can see ruins of palaces built by Augustus, Domitian and other emperors, as well as the House of Livia, wife of Augustus. So, if you have been wondering what to do in Rome, go to Palatine Hill for a journey into the past.
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Book this unique experience: Rome: Skip the Line Colosseum, Forum, and Palatine Hill Tour
Read also: Top 15 Medieval Towns in Europe
Vatican City
As any Rome guide will tell you, a visit to Vatican City–home to the Pope–is one of the top things to do in Rome. It will require multiple trips to Rome and Vatican City to see every detail of the outstanding art and architecture of the St Peter’s Basilica, the Vatican Museums, and the Sistine Chapel. St Peter’s Basilica with its striking dome is a place of immense religious and historical importance. Its interiors are breathtaking.
Works of Renaissance art by famous artists, sculptures, religious paintings, papyruses, and more are on display at the Vatican Museums. Don’t miss the Raphael Rooms! Additionally, if you want to see one man’s talent and passion for art, head to the Sistine Chapel, especially to see Michelangelo’s masterpiece on the ceiling. Remember to adhere to the specified dress code while visiting these places.
Some people pick off-season as the best time to visit Rome as well as Vatican City to avoid the crowds.
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Read also: Top 15 Best Experiences in Europe
St. Peter’s Square
Ever heard of a country within a country? Well, there’s Rome for you. The Vatican is an independent state inside Rome and is referred to as one of the most religious sites in the whole world with its roots lying in St. Peter’s Square. The square resides at the front of the Vatican state and is circular.
Two huge sets of colonnades both side frame this square and atop of them are the famous religious personalities and popes of Rome. St. Peter’s square doubles the charm of Rome’s sightseeing with a magnificent obelisk taken from the Nero’s Circus.
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Read also: Islands in Europe: Top 10 Best Island Holidays in Europe to Visit
St. Peter’s Basilica
St. Peter’s Basilica is one of the most recognized religious buildings and stands as the masterpiece of the Catholic religion. The holiest shrine for the followers and even the tourists, the Basilica has a majestic facade with the statues of Apostle and Jesus on top.
No doubt, Basilica is one of the top Rome’s tourist attractions with divine architectural work and decoration in its interior. The minute decorative details in the Gloria sculpture are not easy to study which highlights the brilliant creativity of Michelangelo and Bernini in designing this sensational building.
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Read also: Europe Holidays: Top 10 Awesome Destinations for Holidays in Europe
Sistine Chapel
Known for its minute illuminated details and iconography, Sistine Chapel is a famous Rome’s tourist spot being part of the Vatican Museum Complex. Sistine Chapel is located in the Apostolic Palace was renovated in the 1400s.
It’s also famous for the Papal enclave where new popes are appointed making in the list of Roman activities to watch. The beautiful artwork on the ceiling along with the Last Judgement fresco is said to be the highlights of this Chapel. Make sure you take all the time to explores the wonders of this Roman attraction.
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Read also: Secret Destinations: Top 13 Natural Wonders of Europe You Must Visit
Vatican Museums
Containing some of the most majestic pieces of artwork, Vatican Museums have been developed by many popes of different ages making it an important Rome’s sightseeing option. These museums contain more than 70,000 pieces of classical and historical artwork and are also called the Treasure Trove of Art.
The museums are divided into several sections like Museum Chiaramonti, the Museo Gregoriano Etrusco, and Museo Pio-Clementino. Visitors can buy separate tickets to observe the museums as well as the Sistine Chapel.
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Read also: Summer in Europe: Top 14 Best Summer Destinations in Europe
Hold up! Have you thought about the importance of travel insurance?
Remember this: anything can happen. Travel is fun, but your health is more important; thus, I always, always, always recommend getting insured during the duration of your trip. I have benefitted from having one multiple times, and it has been covered for thousands of euros!
The latest one is not necessarily “health” related – it was during the peak of the unspeakable terrible C that consumed the world. I was living in Vietnam when I received an email from SafetyWing (my travel insurance) that if I want they’ll fly be back home to Finland as the world goes through a global emergency alert. I flew back fully covered, and dealing with SafetyWing was a breeze despite the roar of people in contact with them trying to get back home.
I can’t highly recommend them enough. Otherwise, I rarely get sick; hence I don’t always need to head to a hospital, but knowing that I have travel insurance makes me feel safe at the very least.
Read my post about why you should get travel insurance for more information. Otherwise, you can get a free quote from SafetyWing – they’re the best, in my opinion.
Pantheon
One of the most preserved and ancient buildings of Rome is the enormous Pantheon and is considered regularly as the Rome’s top attraction. Its construction was started in 118AD on the orders of Emperor Hadrian. This site was originally a temple commissioned by Agrippa.
There are a triangular pediment and a rectangular porch in front of the pantheon lined with enormous columns that serve as a symbol of dedication to Agrippa. The interior is equally splendid as the outside with detailed stone patterns on the dome and a coffer at the center to let light through while this whole structure features as a prominent Rome’s tourist spot.
With its lovely Corinthian columns, the exterior of the Pantheon, a former Roman temple looks wonderful. When you step inside, you realize the stunning beauty of the interiors. It is one of the best places to visit in Rome. You can see the dome, mesmerizing in size and design, with a circular opening (oculus) at its center.
The only source of natural light comes through the oculus and the main entrance. With its beautifully proportionate interiors and the seemingly suspended dome, the Pantheon is a splendid work of architecture.
It is also the burial site of the famous artist Raphael. Today, it functions as a church. This should undoubtedly be on your list of things to do in Rome.
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Read also: Best Road Trips in Europe: Top 15 European Road Trip Ideas
Trevi Fountain
Unique of its kind, you can hardly find such brilliant creativity in a fountain in the globe and thus, is counted in Rome’s highlights. Trevi Fountain was constructed in 1762 by Nicola Selvi. The Roman god Oceanus is seen riding his chariot pulled by Tritons and Hippocamps in this fountain.
This sculpture is a rejoicing piece of art and sets its distinction through detailed crafting. Throwing coins over your shoulders into the fountain is seen as a good omen and has almost become a tradition. Although, it might be difficult for so many tourists practicing this interesting Rome activity.
Although the origins of the Trevi fountain can be traced back to 19 B.C., work on the current Trevi Fountain was done between 1732 and 1762. It looks breathtaking with its gorgeous sculptures against the backdrop of the magnificent Palazzo Poli.
The movement of the water amidst the sculptures makes it magical during the day, and also when it is illuminated at night. Several films have featured the Trevi Fountain. You can see people throwing coins into the fountain to make their wishes come true. You can try it too! It is one of the fun things to do in Rome.
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Read also: Top 8 Warmest Places in Europe in December
Piazza Navona
A public square, the Piazza Navona is your escape from the busy streets of central Rome. The highlight here is the Fontana dei Quattro Fiumi (Fountain of the Four Rivers) with its fabulous sculptures and the tall Obelisk of Domitian at the center. You will find cafes, shops, and restaurants around the Piazza Navona.
The best time to visit Rome is during spring and early summer. That is also when you can watch artists and street performers at this public square. This place may or may not be listed in a regular Rome city guide, but it is worth a visit.
Piazza Navona is located close to the Pantheon and Trevi fountain and has remained a popular Roman tourist spot. The square was built in the 15th century on the site of Domitian Stadium.
The square is enlightened with Fontana del Moro, Fountain of Neptune, the Palazzo Brasch and the famous Saint Agnese in Agone church. You may even find world-famous artists here if you are lucky.
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Read also: Christmas in Italy: 8 Best Christmas Markets in Italy
Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore
Trips to Rome are incomplete without visiting the Basilica di santa Maria Maggiore, and it is one of the best things to do in Rome during your trip.
One of the earliest churches dedicated to the Virgin Mary, the interiors of this basilica is very detailed and ornate in appearance. Lovely mosaics showcasing Jesus Christ and the Virgin Mary as well as scenes of Moses are some of the highlights.
Gilded ceilings, intricate altars and marble columns make the basilica a marvelous work of architecture. Do put this on your list of places to visit in Rome.
Rome never ceases to present ancient historic and religious buildings, and luckily, Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore is included in that long list.
Also regarded as one of the largest churches, this Rome’s tourist spot is filled with an array of stone columns and statues with inscriptions written on them.
A large bell tower arising from this church dominates the surroundings. The interior presents itself as a work of magician with its gold decorated frescoes and the collections of paintings.
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Read also: Europe Bucket List: Top 12 Unusual Destinations in Europe to Visit
Galleria Borghese (Borghese Gallery)
The Galleria Borghese is situated in the Borghese Villa Complex that was established in 1903. Galleria Borghese situates in the northern part of the city and contains a large number of fine colossal paintings, ancient artworks, and ancient sculptures.
This Rome’s tourist attraction has an awe-inspiring facade decorated with stone statues. The Galleria Borghese contains a collection of many famous artists like Raphael, Titian, and Rubens.
An initiative by Cardinal Scipione Borghese, a visit to the Galleria Borghese, an art museum is one of the wonderful activities in Rome. Housed in a former villa, it contains superb paintings, sculptures, and mosaics from famous artists including Bernini, Caravaggio, and Raphael.
Another prime attraction on this property is the Villa Borghese gardens, an extensive public park with pathways, ponds and a zoo. The landscaped garden also has another villa that is now the Etruscan Museum.
You have to reserve your tickets in advance for the tour of the Galleria Borghese. For art lovers who think about what to do in Rome that will appeal to their senses, this is the place to go.
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Read also: Top 12 Museums in Europe (For Arts, History, and Culture)
Archbasilica di San Giovanni in Laterano (Archbasilica of St. John Lateran)
One of the best things to do in Rome is to visit its wonderful churches and basilicas. The Archbasilica di San Giovanni in Laterano has a striking façade, and the interiors have a grandeur that makes it very captivating.
Ornate decorations, stunning mosaics, elaborate ceilings, a lovely octagonal baptistery, an intricate high altar, and a beautiful papal cathedra are just some of the reasons for people to visit this church on their trips to Rome. You can also see huge statues of the apostles and various other facets of this church.
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Book this unique experience: Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel Skip-the-Ticket-Line Tour
Read also: Top 8 Best City Breaks in Europe (That are Worth Visiting)
What are my favorite travel must-haves?
As a frequent traveler, I’ve learned a lot throughout my years of travel, and there are five items that I always carry with me regardless of where I go and how long the trip is. Here are my five travel must-haves!
- Warm packable jacket – I always carry a light jacket, even when heading to warm countries. There hasn’t been a time I never used it, especially in airports and planes.
- Transparent toiletry bag – I often bring a carry-on if I’m only traveling within Europe for a few days. Life is so much easier to go through security checks with a transparent toiletry bag.
- Kindle Paperwhite – I love a good read and always take my Kindle everywhere. It keeps me entertained during long flights and waiting times.
- Powerbank – I don’t know how I could travel without one! Having a power bank saved me a ton since I carry a lot of electronic devices with me.
- Travel Adapter – I never leave my luggage without a travel adapter! I carry one with me all the time. It is just one of that travel-must haves that doesn’t hurt to have in your bag at all times.
Spanish Steps
The 135 Spanish steps were constructed in 1725 to fill the gap and span the slope between Piazza Di Spagna and the Piazza Trinita Dei Monti. These steps are framed by a stone wall and hold a huge stone ledge on them.
A gigantic crucifix obelisk can be seen on top of the steps with carefully carved inscriptions getting it into the list of Rome’s points of interest. When you reach the bottom tired, Piazza Di Spagna has several cafes and restaurants for your refreshment.
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Read also: Best Carry On Backpack: Top Weekender Backpack Reviews!
Castle Sant’Angelo
Once the largest building in Rome, Saint Angelo is a circular castle that was created in 129AD. This ancient castle is also known as the Mausoleum of Hadrian intended as Mausoleum for the great Emperor.
The castle connects to St. Peter’s Basilica via Passetto di Borgov now part of the Vatican state. This castle stands as a living wonder of the history of people and infrastructure and no doubt, is a classical Rome’s attraction.
Now, you need not worry about what to do in Rome as you can go to all of these attractions on your trip. This Rome guide is a handy reference to an enjoyable time in the city. With so many things to do in Rome, you will certainly make plans for another trip soon!
It’s never possible to see all the Rome’s tourist attractions in a few days or a few weeks even at the least. While all the attractions may not be situated nearby, the major attractions are not far away from each other with a 20-30 minutes estimated drive. The Monti neighborhood is a vital point to see several structures at a time if you are on a short trip.
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Book this unique experience: Rome Castel Sant’Angelo with Priority Entrance
Read also: Top 9 Best Wine Countries in Europe
Planning to visit Italy? Check out these posts!
- Italy Points of Interests: Places to visit, Castles to check out, and Christmas markets
- Rome Travel Guides: Things to do, Day trips
- Florence Travel Guides: Things to do, Day trips
- Venice Travel Guides: Things to do, Day trips
- Pisa Travel Guides: Things to do, Day trips
- Bologna Travel Guides: Things to do, Day Trips
- Naples travel Guides: Safety in Naples
Where to stay in Rome
Booking.comTours to do in Rome
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