The Ultimate Guide to Things to Do in Rome, Italy

Rome is one of those cities that doesn’t just invite you to visit. It welcomes you to step into its layers of history, culture, and beauty. From ancient ruins and grand piazzas to world-class art and delicious food, there’s a reason it’s called the “Eternal City.” Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or simply someone who enjoys walking around beautiful streets, Rome offers something for everyone.

In this guide, we’re going to dive into everything you must do, see, and experience in Rome, from the iconic landmarks to the hidden gems you’ll want to uncover.

Iconic Historical Landmarks

1. The Colosseum

No trip to Rome is complete without standing in awe before the Colosseum. Built nearly 2,000 years ago, this amphitheater once hosted gladiatorial games, naval battles, and massive public spectacles. Walking through its arches, you can almost hear the roar of the crowd. A tip? Book a Colosseum guided tour with underground access to discover the hidden chambers beneath the arena floor.

2. Roman Forum & Palatine Hill

Just steps away from the Colosseum, the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill transport you back to the very heart of ancient Rome. Imagine senators debating policies, merchants haggling, and emperors parading through these ruins. From Palatine Hill, you’ll also get breathtaking views of the city. Consider a combined Forum and Palatine Hill skip-the-line ticket to make the most of your visit.

3. Pantheon

The Pantheon is one of those jaw-dropping spots that never fails to impress. With its massive dome, the largest unreinforced concrete dome in the world, it’s a true marvel of engineering. Step inside, and the way sunlight streams through the oculus will leave you speechless. It’s also where Renaissance artist Raphael is buried. For an even richer experience, consider a Pantheon guided tour to uncover its fascinating history.

Vatican City & Religious Sites

4. St. Peter’s Basilica

St. Peter’s Basilica is not just a church. It’s an experience. The grandeur, the art, the sheer scale of it will leave you humbled. Climb to the top of the dome for panoramic views of Vatican City and Rome. Save time with a skip-the-line Basilica dome tour. It’s a climb, yes, but worth every step.

5. Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel

The Vatican Museums house one of the world’s greatest collections of art, spanning centuries of human creativity. The highlight, of course, is Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel ceiling. Pro tip: Go early in the morning or late in the day to avoid the heaviest crowds. To get the most out of it, book a Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel guided tour.

Other Beautiful Churches

Rome is filled with stunning churches that often go unnoticed. Santa Maria Maggiore and San Giovanni in Laterano, for example, are architectural masterpieces that deserve your time. Don’t forget Santa Maria in Trastevere, one of the oldest churches in the city, where the golden mosaics shimmer in the evening light.

Art & Culture Highlights

6. Galleria Borghese

Tucked inside the lush Villa Borghese gardens, the Galleria Borghese is a treasure trove of Baroque art. Bernini’s sculptures, Caravaggio’s paintings, and Canova’s masterpieces are all here. Advance booking is essential, as entry numbers are limited. Secure your spot with a skip-the-line Galleria Borghese ticket.

7. Capitoline Museums

Overlooking the Roman Forum, the Capitoline Museums boast an extraordinary collection of ancient Roman statues, inscriptions, and Renaissance art. It’s also the world’s oldest public museum, dating back to 1471. To explore it fully, consider a guided tour of the Capitoline Museums.

8. Street Art & Modern Culture

Rome isn’t just about ancient ruins. Districts like Ostiense and Pigneto are vibrant canvases where street art flourishes. From large-scale murals to quirky graffiti, modern Rome shows its creative side here. For an insider look, join a Rome street art walking tour.

9. Piazzas, Fountains & Walking Spots

Piazza Navona

Piazza Navona is quintessential Rome: lively, beautiful, and full of character. With Bernini’s famous Fountain of the Four Rivers at its center, it’s the perfect place to sit back, enjoy a coffee, and people-watch. Or join a walking tour of Rome’s historic piazzas to learn the stories behind them

Trevi Fountain

Tossing a coin into the Trevi Fountain is a rite of passage. Legend has it that one coin ensures your return to Rome, two coins bring romance, and three mean marriage. Whether you believe it or not, the fountain’s baroque splendor is magical at night when it’s beautifully lit. Capture the magic on a Rome by night walking tour that includes the Trevi Fountain.

Spanish Steps

The Spanish Steps are a meeting point for both locals and tourists. Climb to the top for views of Piazza di Spagna and Via dei Condotti, one of the city’s prime shopping streets. A Rome highlights walking tour often includes this iconic spot.

Campo de’ Fiori

During the day, Campo de’ Fiori is a bustling market filled with fresh produce, spices, and flowers. By night, it transforms into a lively square with bars and restaurants buzzing with energy. To experience both sides, join a Rome food and market tour.

10. Hidden Gems & Off-the-Beaten Path

Trastevere

This bohemian neighborhood feels like a village within the city. Wander its narrow cobblestone streets, discover cozy trattorias, and soak in the vibrant nightlife. For a more immersive evening, join a Trastevere food and wine walking tour. Don’t miss the view from Janiculum Hill nearby.

Appian Way (Via Appia Antica)

One of the oldest roads in Rome, the Appian Way is lined with ancient tombs, catacombs, and aqueducts. Rent a bike or take a guided bike tour of the Appian Way to explore this historic route at your own pace.

Quartiere Coppedè

Quartiere Coppedè is Rome’s fairytale neighborhood. With whimsical architecture blending Gothic, Baroque, and Art Nouveau styles, it feels like stepping into another world.

Testaccio

Testaccio is the neighborhood for food lovers. It’s authentic, down-to-earth, and filled with traditional Roman eateries. It’s also where you’ll find Monte Testaccio, an artificial hill made entirely of ancient pottery shards. To really savor the area, try a Testaccio food and market tour.

11. Food & Drink Experiences

Must-Try Dishes

Rome’s culinary scene is legendary. Don’t leave without trying:

• Cacio e pepe: Pasta with pecorino cheese and black pepper.
• Carbonara: Pasta with egg, pecorino, guanciale, and black pepper.
• Supplì: Fried rice balls stuffed with mozzarella.
• Gelato: The perfect treat after a long day of sightseeing.

Aperitivo Culture & Wine Bars

Around sunset, Romans gather for aperitivo. It’s a pre-dinner drink with snacks. Wine bars and cafes buzz with laughter as locals enjoy spritzes, prosecco, and small plates. Head to Monti or Trastevere for the best spots.

Best Food Tours and Cooking Classes

If you want to dive deeper into Roman cuisine, join a Rome food tour or cooking class. You’ll not only eat like a local but learn the stories and traditions behind each dish.

Famous Markets

Markets are the soul of Rome’s food culture. Campo de’ Fiori offers a lively mix of stalls, while Mercato Testaccio focuses on authentic, high-quality products beloved by locals.

12. Parks & Panoramic Views

Villa Borghese Gardens

These sprawling gardens are perfect for a leisurely stroll or a picnic. Rent a bike or a rowboat at the lake, and enjoy the greenery in the heart of Rome.

Gianicolo Hill

For one of the best views of the city, head up to Gianicolo Hill. It’s less crowded than other viewpoints and offers sweeping panoramas of Rome’s rooftops and domes.

Orange Garden (Giardino degli Aranci)

This peaceful garden on Aventine Hill is a romantic spot, with stunning views of St. Peter’s Basilica framed by orange trees.

Pincio Terrace

Overlooking Piazza del Popolo, Pincio Terrace is another fantastic viewpoint, especially at sunset when the city glows in golden light.

13. Day Trips from Rome

Tivoli

A short trip from Rome, Tivoli is home to the stunning Villa d’Este with its Renaissance gardens and fountains, as well as Hadrian’s Villa, a sprawling Roman archaeological complex.

Book a day trip to Tivoli from Rome to see both sites with ease.

Ostia Antica

For those fascinated by history, Ostia Antica is a well-preserved ancient port city that gives you a real sense of daily life in Roman times without the crowds of Pompeii. A half-day guided tour makes it easy to explore.

Castel Gandolfo

Nestled by a lake, Castel Gandolfo is known as the Pope’s summer residence. The town itself is charming, with beautiful views and delicious local cuisine.

Practical Tips for Visitors

• Best time to visit: Spring and fall for pleasant weather and fewer crowds.
• Where to stay: Check out Rome hotels and apartments on Expedia for options near major attractions.
• Getting around: Rome is best explored on foot, but public transport (metro, buses, trams) is handy.
• Dress code: When visiting churches, cover shoulders and knees.
• Stay hydrated: Rome’s many nasoni (public fountains) provide free, fresh drinking water.

Suggested Itineraries

1 Day in Rome

• Morning: Colosseum & Roman Forum
• Afternoon: Pantheon & Piazza Navona
• Evening: Toss a coin in Trevi Fountain and enjoy dinner in Trastevere.

3 Days in Rome

• Day 1: Ancient Rome highlights (Colosseum, Forum, Palatine Hill).
• Day 2: Vatican City (St. Peter’s Basilica, Museums, Sistine Chapel).
• Day 3: Galleria Borghese, Spanish Steps, Campo de’ Fiori, and sunset at Pincio Terrace.

5+ Days in Rome

• Add day trips (Tivoli, Ostia Antica).
• Explore neighborhoods like Testaccio and Quartiere Coppedè.
• Spend more time in museums and on food experiences.

Conclusion

Rome is a city that gives endlessly whether you’re marveling at its ancient ruins, savoring its culinary delights, or getting lost in its charming backstreets. The Eternal City truly has something for everyone, from history buffs to foodies to art lovers. Take your time, soak it all in, and let Rome work its magic on you.

So, what’s your favorite thing to do in Rome? Share your thoughts. I’d love to hear your own Eternal City adventures!