✓ Handpicked Luxury Stays in Budget on 🏡 booking.com
There are an array of things to do in Italy, with Rome sharing quite a few of those!
As you stroll along the cobblestone streets of Rome, the city’s timeless allure is sure to captivate you.
With its storied past, impressive architecture and tantalizing cuisine, Rome promises an experience that is nothing short of magical.
Whether you’re a history buff, art aficionado, foodie or simply seeking a fun-filled vacation, the Eternal City has an endless array of things to do that will leave you spellbound.
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Rome:
1. Colosseum
A magnificent ancient amphitheater located in the center of Rome.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the Colosseum’s underground chambers and upper tier levels, as well as the arena’s surface where epic gladiator battles once took place.
Don’t miss: The opportunity to stand in the center of the arena and imagine what it would have been like to be a gladiator facing thousands of cheering spectators.
Insider travel tips: Buy tickets in advance to skip the long lines. Consider taking a guided tour to learn more about the Colosseum’s fascinating history.
And don’t forget to bring comfortable shoes, as there’s lots of walking involved.
2. Pantheon
The Pantheon in Rome is a former Roman temple, now a church, considered one of the best-preserved Roman buildings in the world.
What to see or do: The stunning interior of the Pantheon is a must-see, with its massive dome and intricate details. Visitors can also view the tombs of Italian kings and painters Raphael and Annibale Carracci.
Don’t miss: The oculus at the top of the dome opens to the sky, creating a unique and beautiful effect on sunny days.
Insider travel tips: Arrive early in the morning or late in the evening to avoid crowds. Also, dress modestly if you plan to enter the church portion of the building.
3. Roman Forum
An ancient Roman plaza surrounded by ruins of government buildings, temples, and arches.
What to see or do: Walk around the Forum and admire the architecture of the ancient buildings.
You can also visit the Temple of Saturn or the Temple of Caesar, or climb up to the Palatine Hill for a panoramic view of the area.
Don’t miss: The Arch of Titus, which commemorates the sack of Jerusalem, or the Arch of Septimius Severus, which depicts military campaigns and victories.
Insider travel tips: Arrive early in the morning to avoid the crowds and the heat. Consider hiring a guide to get a better understanding of the historical significance of the Forum.
Wear comfortable shoes as the terrain can be uneven and rocky.
4. Trevi Fountain
The Trevi Fountain is a Baroque masterpiece located in the heart of Rome, Italy. It is considered one of the most iconic fountains in the world and attracts millions of visitors every year.
What to see or do: Marvel at the intricate Baroque design of the fountain, which features Neptune, the god of the sea, standing atop a chariot pulled by seahorses.
Toss a coin over your shoulder into the fountain, which according to legend, ensures a return to Rome.
Don’t miss: Visit the fountain at night when it is illuminated, and the crowds have thinned out. Take a stroll around the fountain and enjoy the atmosphere of this stunning location.
Insider travel tips: Arrive at the fountain early in the morning to avoid the crowds. Enjoy a gelato from nearby Gelateria Della Palma just after visiting the fountain.
5. Vatican City
An independent city-state surrounded by Rome, Italy and the smallest country in the world.
What to see or do: Visit St. Peter’s Basilica, the Vatican Museums, and the Sistine Chapel, admire the architecture of St.
Peter’s Square, attend the Papal Audience (if available), explore the Vatican Gardens.
Don’t miss: Michelangelo’s famous ceiling fresco in the Sistine Chapel, the Gallery of Maps in the Vatican Museums, the Swiss Guard ceremony.
Insider travel tips: Purchase tickets for the Vatican Museums online in advance to avoid long queues, dress appropriately (no shorts, skirts above the knee, or sleeveless tops) to enter St.
Peter’s Basilica, and plan your visit early in the morning to avoid crowds. Remember, it is a holy site, so remain respectful during your visit.
6. Sistine Chapel
The Sistine Chapel is a chapel in the Apostolic Palace in Vatican City and is famous for its stunning Renaissance art, including the ceiling painted by Michelangelo.
What to see or do: Visitors can admire the beautiful ceiling frescoes painted by Michelangelo and the breathtaking “Last Judgment” fresco on the altar wall.
Don’t miss: The Genesis panel and Michelangelo’s “Creation of Adam” are the most famous sections of the ceiling, but be sure to also take in the details of the other frescoes adorning the vaulted ceiling.
Insider travel tips: – The Sistine Chapel is often crowded, so consider booking a guided tour for an in-depth experience.
7. St Peter’s Basilica
St.
Peter’s Basilica is a massive church in Vatican City, Rome, and is considered one of the holiest sites for Catholics worldwide.
What to see or do: The interior of the church is decorated with stunning Renaissance art and architecture, with landmarks such as Michelangelo’s Pietà sculpture and Bernini’s Colonnade.
Visitors can also climb the dome to enjoy panoramic views of Rome.
Don’t miss: The tombs of many popes, including that of St. Peter, lie within the basilica.
The breathtaking St.
Peter’s Square, adjacent to the basilica, is known for its massive colonnades and is frequently used by the Vatican for large public gatherings.
Insider travel tips: To save time, visitors should arrive early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds. It is important to dress appropriately and to maintain respectful behavior while inside the church.
Visitors should also consider hiring a tour guide to appreciate the full history and significance of the basilica.
8. Spanish Steps
Iconic staircase in Rome, Italy.
What to see or do: Take a stroll up the Spanish Steps and enjoy the view of Rome from the top. Admire the intricate design of the staircase and the beautiful fountain at the bottom.
Don’t miss: The Keats-Shelley House, located at the foot of the steps. It’s a museum dedicated to the life and works of English Romantic poets John Keats and Percy Bysshe Shelley.
Insider travel tips: Visit early morning or late evening to avoid crowds and take in the serenity of the steps. Don’t sit on the steps or eat on them as it is prohibited.
9. Piazza Navona
A historic public square in Rome, surrounded by Baroque architecture and fountains.
What to see or do: Marvel at the three beautiful fountains, including the famous Fountain of the Four Rivers created by Bernini. Admire the stunning Baroque architecture of the surrounding buildings, including the Church of Sant’Agnese in Agone.
Relax at one of the many outdoor cafes or bars while taking in the vibrant atmosphere.
Don’t miss: The Christmas market during the holiday season, where you can shop for unique gifts and sample local food and drinks.
Insider travel tips: Grab a gelato from one of the nearby gelaterias and take a stroll around the square at sunset to see it at its most beautiful.
For a quieter visit, come early in the morning before the crowds arrive.
10. Villa Borghese
Villa Borghese is a magnificent park located in the heart of Rome. This sprawling estate features an array of attractions, including museums, galleries, historical landmarks, and stunning gardens.
What to see or do: There are numerous activities to enjoy at Villa Borghese. Visitors can explore the park’s gardens and fountains, and take in the breathtaking views of Rome.
Art lovers can visit the Borghese Gallery, which houses an impressive collection of paintings and sculptures by renowned Italian artists. Other must-see attractions include the Temple of Aesculapius and the Aviary.
Don’t miss: For stunning views of the city, be sure to climb to the top of the Pincio Terrace. You should also take a stroll along the lake and rent a rowboat for a relaxing afternoon on the water.
Insider travel tips: Villa Borghese can get busy, so it’s best to visit during off-peak hours to avoid crowds. Make sure to book your tickets in advance to avoid waiting in long lines at the entrance.
Additionally, wear comfortable shoes as there is a lot of ground to cover. Finally, take a picnic lunch and enjoy a relaxing meal in one of the park’s beautiful gardens.
11. Castel Sant’Angelo
Ancient fortress turned museum in Rome, located on the banks of the Tiber River.
What to see or do: Visitors can climb to the top of the castle to enjoy panoramic views of the city, tour its extensive exhibits featuring medieval weaponry, Renaissance paintings, and historical artifacts, and explore its underground prison cells, secret staircases, and papal apartments.
Don’t miss: The stunning Angel statue adorning the top of the castle, which gives it its name and is visible from various parts of the city.
Insider travel tips: It’s best to visit Castel Sant’Angelo in the early morning to avoid crowds and heat. The audio guide is highly recommended to fully appreciate the history and significance of the castle.
Don’t forget to check out the rooftop terrace, which is a great spot for taking photos.
12. Circus Maximus
Ancient Roman chariot racing stadium turned public park.
What to see or do: Take a stroll through the sprawling park and imagine the roar of crowds and thundering hooves that once filled the stadium.
Enjoy a picnic or a game of frisbee on the grassy slopes overlooking the ruins.
Don’t miss: The excavated ruins of the seating areas and track, which give a sense of the massive scale of the original structure.
Insider travel tip: For a unique perspective, visit the adjacent Capitoline Hill and look down at the stadium from above. Also, consider visiting in the late afternoon or early evening to catch a gorgeous sunset over the ruins.
13. Palatine Hill
Palatine Hill is one of the Seven Hills of Rome, located in the center of the city.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the ruins of ancient Rome on this hill, including the Palace of Domitian, the Flavian Palace, and the House of Augustus.
The hill also offers beautiful views of the Colosseum and Roman Forum.
Don’t miss: The Domus Augustana, which was once the official residence of the emperors. Visitors can see the remains of the Roman baths, the Nymphaeum fountain, and the Stadium.
Insider travel tips: Be sure to wear comfortable shoes since there is a lot of walking involved. It is also recommended to arrive early in the day to avoid the crowds.
Consider purchasing a combination ticket for Palatine Hill, the Roman Forum, and the Colosseum to save time and money.
14. Campo de’ Fiori
A historic market square located in the heart of Rome, Italy.
What to see or do: Enjoy the bustling atmosphere of the market, shop for fresh produce, taste local street food or have a drink at one of the many bars and restaurants lined around the square.
Don’t miss: Visiting the square early in the morning to witness the market hustle, or in the evening to experience the nightlife.
Insider travel tips: Try the delicious artisanal gelato at Forno Campo de’ Fiori bakery, or bargain with the vendors for a good deal on souvenirs.
If you’re staying nearby, take a stroll over in the evening and enjoy the street performers and musicians that often gather in the area.
15. Piazza del Popolo
A large public square located in the heart of Rome, Italy.
What to see or do: Admire the Egyptian obelisk that stands tall in the center of the square and take in the stunning views of the city.
Visit the Santa Maria del Popolo church and view the beautiful artwork inside.
Don’t miss: The Pincio Terrace, an elevated park with gorgeous views of Rome.
Insider travel tips: Visit the square during the early morning or late evening to avoid crowds. Take a stroll down Via del Corso, a popular shopping street that leads to the square.