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.
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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 1st 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 14th 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 2nd 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 Rome, 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 Steps, but perhaps you are wondering why they are called this. It is because, in the 17th 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 16th 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 4th 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 15th 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 2nd century and 4th 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 2nd and 5th 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 2nd 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 15th 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
Centrale 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 1st 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 17th 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 17th 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 5th 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 15th 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 6th century BC and was in use until the 6th 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.
The 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
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