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11 unmissable attractions in Rome

Take a look at the best of the best attractions in Rome, from magnificent churches and ancient ruins to world-famous artworks

Rome sells itself; we all know that. An unmissable attraction in Rome is about as unmissable as you are going to find, and this famous old city is packed with iconic spots that most cities would give their right arm for. Okay, cities don’t have arms, but you get the point. The Eternal City stands head and shoulders above most for historical and cultural might, and the best attractions in Rome are seriously impressive. You’d be forgiven for thinking Rome can’t possibly deliver on all its hype. Well, prepare yourself because it hits all the notes and then some. It has world-beating restaurants , fabulous bars , genre-defining galleries and all the history you could hope for. These are the most essential attractions in Rome, your ultimate Eternal City bucket list.

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Best Rome attractions

1.  Colosseum

• Attractions
• Historic buildings and sites

The Colosseum is a monument of epic proportions dating from AD 72. Stories of gory battles between gladiators, slaves, prisoners and wild animals have emerged from this Flavian amphitheatre with a seating capacity of over 50,000 people; nowhere in the world was there a larger or more glorious setting for mass slaughter. This is a necessary pilgrimage for history buffs and the ideal starting point to take in the Roman remains of the city: the jaw-dropping Forum, the Domus Aurea and the Pantheon.

Where? Piazza del Colosseo. 

Time Out tip: The best time to visit the Colosseum is early in the morning, or if you prefer, in the late afternoon before closing to avoid the sun. 

2.  Roman Forum and Palatine

The oldest of Rome’s fora, the Foro Romano (Roman Forum), was once the centre of state ceremony, commerce, law and bureaucracy. Above the Colosseum to the west (and visited on a cumulative ticket with the Foro Romano and the Colosseum) is Rome’s birthplace, the Palatine. Later, the Palatine became the home of the movers and shakers of both the Republic and the Empire as sumptuous palaces were built. The choice of location was understandable: the Palatine overlooks the Foro Romano yet is a comfortable distance from the disturbances and riff-raff down in the valley.

Where is it?  Via della Salara Vecchia.

Time Out tip? Since there are no gift shops or cafes on the grounds, it's the perfect excuse to pay a visit to the vegan-friendly Grezzo Raw Chocolate serving a delectable range of chocolate desserts. 

3.  Musei Vaticani and Cappella Sistina

• Art and design

If you met the Pope, what would you say? Well, you probably won't, but you can join an audience with him on Wednesday mornings. If the weather is fine, he'll hold this general audience in St Peter's Square; otherwise, it takes place in the Sala Nervi audience hall. Expect to join clusters of Catholic devotees and flocks of camera-waving tourists. Afterwards, you can take the opportunity to wander through St Peter's Basilica, admire Michelangelo's stunning frescoes in the Sistine Chapel and visit the famous 'Belvedere Apollo' and 'Laocoön' at the Museo Pio-Clementino among the Vatican Museums.

Where is it?  Vatican City - close to San Pietro Metro. 

Time Out tip: Look out for the moving tapestry Supper at  Emmaus. 

4.  Pantheon

The Pantheon is the best-preserved ancient building in Rome. Hadrian built it in AD 119-128 as a temple to the 12 most critical classical deities. The simplicity of the building’s exterior remains largely unchanged, and it retains its original Roman bronze doors. Inside, the Pantheon’s glory lies in the dimensions, which follow the rules written by the top Roman architect Vitruvius. The diameter of the hemispherical dome is equal to the height of the whole building; it could potentially accommodate a perfect sphere. At the centre of the dome is the oculus, a circular hole 9 metres (30 feet) in diameter, the only light source and a symbolic link between the temple and the heavens. 

Where is it?  Piazza della Rotonda.

Time Out tip: When in Rome, avoid queues by arriving early. On the way, you can stop for a traditional breakfast at the very classic and quaint Caffe Novecento.

5.  MAXXI

Even from a distance, it’s pretty clear that the Museum of the Arts of the 21st Century (or MAXXI, for short) is a celebration of all things modern. Designed by cutting-edge architecture firm Zaha Hadid and opened in 2009, the MAXXI is a dramatic, impression-leaving work of art. Not forgetting, of course, that it houses the works of some of Italy’s most exciting and boundary-pushing contemporary artists.

Where is it?  Via Guido Reni.

Time Out tip: If you have a bit of an eye for architecture, don't miss out on Environments by Women Artists, running until October. 

6.  Musei Capitolini

This is the city that has nurtured the art of Michelangelo. Housed in twin palaces on opposite sides of his piazza del Campidoglio are the Capitoline Museums, the oldest public gallery in the world, having opened their collection to the public in 1734. Once inside, you can admire breathtaking paintings by Titian, Tintoretto, Veronese and Caravaggio and beautifully crafted statues by the Baroque genius Bernini. While on the art trail, don't miss the Borghese Gallery and the Palazzo Barberini Galleria Nazionale d'Arte Antica.

Time Out tip: If required, remember to print out your tickets ready for entry.

7.  Santa Maria in Via

• Religious buildings and sites

Perk yourself up with a cupful of miraculous water in the church of Santa Maria in Via. In 1286 a stone bearing an image of the Virgin’s face floated to the surface of a well, over which this church was later built, and locals and visitors alike are still going crazy for the water.

Where is it?  Largo Chigi. 

Time Out tip:  Just moments away from Fontana de Trevi, we recommend visiting both sites before rounding off the afternoon with a woodfire pizza at Piccolo Buco.

8.  Fontana di Trevi

• Monuments and memorials

Worm your way through the heaving crowds of its tiny piazza, and you’ll see why everyone makes such a fuss about the Fontana di Trevi. Basking in the glow of constant camera flashes, Trevi’s gleaming travertine looks stark beneath the roaring washes of water. The sculpture itself is a fantastical scene of conch-blowing tritons, sharp rocks and flimsy trees, all bursting from in front of the wall of the Palazzo Poli. No one knows why people started chucking coins in the water, but you probably should – it gets drained once a week, with all the money going to the Italian Red Cross. Our top tip? Avoid the crowds by going as late or early in the day as possible.

Where is it?  Piazza di Trevi.

Time Out tip: With such a high footfall, the fountain can be a hotspot for pickpockets, so take extra care when requesting a photo from a fellow tourist. To be on the safe side, we'd recommend investing in a selfie stick.

9.  Piazza di Spagna

Piazza di Spagna takes its name from the Spanish Embassy to the Vatican but is chiefly celebrated for the elegant cascade of stairs down from the church of Trinità dei Monti. Known in Italian as the Scalinata di Trinità dei Monti, the English Grand Tourists referred to them as the Spanish Steps. At the foot of the stairs is a delightful boat-shaped fountain, the Barcaccia; it’s ingeniously sunk below ground level to compensate for the low pressure of the delicious Acqua Vergine that feeds it. The steps are best seen first thing in the morning before the crowds arrive.

Where is it?  Piazza di Spagna.

Time Out tip: After climbing all those steps a scoop of gelato from Venchi is a must.

10.  Pincio

• Parks and gardens

Overlooking Piazza del Popolo, and now an integral part of the Villa Borghese, is one of the oldest gardens in Rome: the Pincio. The Pinci family commissioned the first gardens here in the fourth century. Pincio is best known for its view of the Vatican at sunset, with the dome of St Peter’s silhouetted in gold. The paved area behind the viewpoint is popular with cyclists (bikes can be hired nearby) and skaters. To the southeast of the Pincio is the Casina Valadier, now a pricey restaurant with a to-die-for view.

Where is it?  Viale Gabriele D'Annunzio.

Time Out tip: Once you're at the top, don't rush off after your snaps, instead take in the gorgeous views – you could even set up a picnic spot in the gardens of Villa Borghese for a relaxing afternoon. Just make sure it's a shaded area and always have an umbrella to hand. Trust us. 

11.  Central Lake Park (Laghetto dell’E.U.R)

As Rome is one of the best cities to get lost in, I took a little detour on my way to Euroma 2, swapping the swarms of busy shoppers for the tranquil footpaths, sweeping views and manicured hedgerows of  Central Lake Park. Situated in the EUR neighbourhood in southern Rome EUR neighbourhood, the lake is a great place to come if you want to avoid the overcrowded centre, relax, and bask in the gorgeous summer sun for a few hours.  Originally designed by Marcello Piacentini  and completed in 1959 ahead of the 1960 Rome Olympics, this manmade lake is a prime spot for cycling, canoeing, and, of course, a picnic. 

Where is it?  Laghetto dell’E.U.R

Time Out tip: Find a place to perch under the cherry blossoms facing the water, grab a frisbee, and you're all set.

More great Rome attractions

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The 26 Best Things to Do in Rome

By Maresa Manara and Katie Parla

In such an ancient and dense place, prioritizing which corners to see can be an overwhelming task. How do you even start to figure out what to do in Rome? To shed some light on that impenetrable question, we've pulled together a list of world-famous sites and lesser-known destinations—museums, markets, archeological and architectural marvels—that will provide you with the full spectrum of outstanding experiences the Italian capital has to offer. Whether you have only a day in the city or a couple weeks (or return visits) to explore every detail, this list will help you pull together an itinerary you won't forget.

Read our complete Rome travel guide here .

Every review on this list has been written by a Condé Nast Traveler journalist who knows the destination and has visited that activity. When choosing things to do, our editors consider landmarks and experiences that offer an insider’s view of a destination, keeping authenticity, location, service, and sustainability credentials top of mind. This gallery has been updated with new information since its original publish date.

Palazzo Spada Arrow

Near Campo dei Fiori yet blissfully uncrowded, Palazzo Spada is a striking historic palace built in the 16 th century and redesigned by Roman architect Borromini in the 17th century. Inside there’s a rich art collection with Renaissance and Baroque masters, and outside there’s a peaceful courtyard where eight impressive colonnades create a mesmerising optical illusion. The palace itself is exquisitely Baroque, with elegant, perfect symmetry and ornate decorations. Inside, there are walls plastered in frescoes, immaculate stucco work, and grand halls of opulent, gilded marble. Palazzo Spada houses an incredible art collection, with paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts by artists including Titian and Caravaggio. Don’t miss the Borromini Perspective Gallery, a masterclass in optical illusion where a corridor appears to be much longer than it actually is.

Monte Mario Nature Reserve Arrow

A hike through this huge nature reserve—the highest of Rome’s ‘seven hills’—makes for a great alternative to Villa Borghese, with a fraction of the crowds, and fantastic views over the city. The Monte Mario Natural Reserve spans around 100 hectares, with nature trails wending through canopies of oak trees, pines and cypress trees. There’s a rich array of wildlife, including hawks, kestrels, foxes and hedgehogs. It couldn’t feel farther from one of the world’s biggest cities. There’s a number of different walking trails throughout the reserve, some more difficult (and steep) than others. Take a taxi there from the historical centre—it’s a seven minute drive away.

Case Romane del Celio in Rome Arrow

Underground beneath the Basilica Santi Giovanni e Paolo, this heritage museum shows how Roman daily life has changed over the years. There are 20 rooms showing ancient Roman homes, shops and shrines. It’s cheap to get into and relatively quiet, even on weekends. This is one of the best preserved examples of ancient Roman domestic architecture. The houses date back to the second and third centuries AD. They were part of a larger residential complex, possibly belonging to a single aristocratic Roman family. One of the most remarkable features is the underground area known as the hypogeum —a subterranean complex of chambers and passageways. Visitors can explore several interconnected rooms, including reception areas (atria), living quarters (cubicula), kitchens, and courtyards. The houses are decorated with colorful frescoes, intricate mosaics, and marble floors, showcasing the opulence and artistic sophistication of the Roman elite.

Sant'Ivo alla Sapienza Arrow

Most artists and architects working in the characteristically ornate and emotional Baroque style leaned heavily on color and materials to create strong visual impressions. Not Borromini, in this magnificent church originally designed for the Università di Roma. Using simply molded stucco forms and daylight, the maestro created an interior space that's at once intimate and infinite, simple and complex. If you've seen Bernini's interior design at St. Peter's Basilica, this is a great place to see how his rival achieves absolute architectural perfection without using scale and color as a crutch. There's no guide. Walk in, take a seat, and take it in.

Jessica Chapel

Emily Pennington

Charlie Hobbs

Kaitlin Menza

Galleria Doria Pamphilj Arrow

This museum houses Rome's largest private collection, a trove assembled by the Doria, Pamphilj, Landi, and Aldobrandini families and brought together through marriage. It’s set in a noble palace still owned by the Doria Pamphilj family and the ornate halls provide a grand setting for such an overwhelming amount of art. The collection is acclaimed among 16th and 17th-century art aficionados but is off the average visitor’s radar even though it's located just off Piazza Venezia and close to the Forum.

Villa Doria Pamphilj Arrow

Rome's largest public park is divided into manicured gardens, stretches of forest, pine groves, and bits of wild vegetation. There are wide open fields, as well as intimate nooks for romantic picnics. It's a perfect destination for runners or cyclists who want to get in a few miles without the nuisances of car traffic and smog. Whether you visit for a stroll, a meal, or a workout, be sure to have a map. The place is huge and some exits spit you out into residential neighborhoods.

Colosseum Arrow

If you know the background of the building, a visit to the Colosseum will be truly amazing and totally live up to the hype. The place was used for wild beast hunts, public executions, and gladiator fights for several hundred years, then became a condo of sorts as medieval Romans made their homes in the hulking ruins. Spend a little time on the second story exhibition area, check out the artists' renderings of the building's ancient and medieval incarnations, and you'll be anxious to learn more.

Ancient Pharmacy of Santa Maria della Scala Arrow

Entering this ancient apothecary, the oldest in Europe, feels a little like stepping back in time. You enter through the ground floor of the building, which is now a functioning, modern pharmacy, before heading upstairs to the ancient iteration. Visitors are welcomed by a friar, who talks you through the various herbs, potions, unguents, balms, and oils that they used to heal the ancient Romans. He knows his stuff. Ask him to show you some of the original wooden furniture from the 18th century, and the instruments they used for weighing ingredients and making the medicines. Look out for the teriaca, a potion created and used by Romans as an antidote—ingredients include viper meat.

MAXXI Rome Arrow

MAXXI is the kind of place you go to spend half a day, with no plans other than to take the entire place in. Designed by Zaha Hadid, this is Rome’s museum for all things contemporary, with exhibitions spanning modern fashion, cinema, art, and architecture. Heck, it’s worth visiting just to check out the building, a piece of art in itself. The labyrinthine space at MAXXI is astounding. It gets busy, but there's so much space that you wouldn't notice. Big, wide halls give way to rooms of different themes and sizes, resulting in five floors of non-stop, incredible artwork. Spaces range from performing arts to galleries with modern artworks to open cinemas. For some, this might feel a little incoherent, but it helps if you take it in as a whole rather than different spaces.

Capitoline Museums Arrow

Home to one of the finest collections of ancient sculpture in Rome (and therefore the world), the Capitoline Museums are—weirdly—rarely crowded. They attract school groups, local history and art buffs, and travelers, all of whom tend to meander through the museums' various buildings, two of which were designed by none other than Michelangelo. Thanks to its collection and its proximity to Rome's main archeological attractions, it's a logical place to stop after visiting the Roman Forum and Colosseum.

Palatine Hill Arrow

The Palatine Hill is a big, sprawling open-air museum. There are emperors' palaces, manicured gardens, medieval churches, and a terrace overlooking the Forum and beyond. The admission fee is about $18 and covers the Roman Forum and Colosseum, too, making it a pretty great deal. Although the Palatine has monuments from every major era in Rome's history, the real draw is a first-century palace built by Domitian, a mad emperor with a very serious architecture addiction.

Jubilee Church Arrow

Chiesa di Dio Padre Misericordioso, also known as the Jubilee Church, was designed by American architect Richard Meier as part of the Vatican's grand church-building and city revival program leading up to the Millennium Jubilee, a Catholic pilgrimage year held in 2000. The church is free, though getting there may cost you. It's about six miles from central Rome, so a taxi could easily cost more than €25 ($28). Alternatively, you can reach the church via public transport for €3 ($4) round trip.

San Zeno Chapel at Santa Prassede Arrow

The San Zeno Chapel is a small chapel and major pilgrimage destination inside the church of Santa Prassede (aka Saint Praxedes). The church, chapel, and mosaics all backdate to the 9th century when Pope Paschal I built the chapel and its Byzantine mosaics for his mother. Because the chapel houses the remains of a pillar believed by many Catholics to be from the Flagellation of Christ, it draws some pilgrims. Other visitors are travelers specifically there to see the Byzantine mosaics.

Domus Aurea Arrow

A sprawling palatial pavilion built by emperor Nero in the 1st century that will blow you away with the design taste and command of concrete and space on display. You can only visit on weekends—the site's under restoration during the week—but admission includes a guided tour. Ours was led by an archeologist who not only worked on the site but was totally obsessed with it; the passion made for a terrific tour. Try your luck.

Mercato di Campagna Amica del Circo Massimo Arrow

Despite being Rome's largest farmers market, the Mercato di Campagna Amica remains down to earth and not at all corporate—as demonstrated by the fact it's only open on weekends. The stalls adhere to the "0 km" philosophy, shorthand for products made or grown within 100 kilometers from the point of sale; and vendors come mostly from Lazio, Rome's home region. It's a crash course in the local leafy greens, amusing in their number and variety, especially to visitors from northern climates. Both the olives and the olive oil you'll find here are worth a splurge, but one of the market's best uses is as a source of super-fresh (and super-cheap) picnic material. Grab some bread, a little fresh pecorino, a few slices of prosciutto, some fruit, and make yourself a lunch.

Villa Farnesina Arrow

The Villa was the private residence of Agostino Chigi, one of the Renaissance's richest men; he liked to showcase his wealth by hiring artists to paint elaborate frescoes on the walls and ceilings in his palace. That makes this a great place for Renaissance fans who want to take their time and see the art in-situ without the crowds. Thanks to Raphael's emphasis on mythological themes, it's also a great place for kids who know about the Roman gods—or want to!

Janiculum Hill Arrow

This is a leisurely stroll beginning in Trastevere and winding up via Garibaldi to the top of Janiculum Hill. The mood changes from urban at the beginning to monumental at the end; it's a bit of work, but rewards those willing to do it with a unique perspective on Roman history and some of the best views of the city. Best to do the walk during the day, or early in the morning if it's summer. If you're on a tight schedule, don't want to brave the hill in the heat, or just want to get a view, skip the hike and take a taxi directly to Piazzale Garibaldi.

Vicus Caprarius Arrow

This museum takes you beneath the Trevi district, through an intricate maze of ancient vestiges to the archaeological ruins of Vicus Caprarius (which roughly translates to “City of Water”), an old Roman apartment complex dating back to the first-century A.D.. You get to see first-hand how the rich Romans lived, using their very own aqueduct–the same one that feeds the Trevi fountain–for their running water. The entrance is unassuming, and if you hadn’t been told it was there it would be easy to walk right past. There’s a fairly comprehensive website but all bookings are made (and confirmed) via a Whatsapp chat. Skip the guided tour—there were 8 of us in the tour group, but we shared the same (small) space with  self-guided individuals, many of whom had just showed up and booked on the day. If you're keen on a post-museum cocktail, head upstairs to Harry's Bar.

Santa Maria del Popolo Arrow

Santa Maria del Popolo is a Renaissance church at the edge of Piazza del Popolo and just within Rome's 3rd-century walls. It was decorated during Rome's most recent artistic peak, the 15th to 17th centuries, and is packed with masterpieces. The church is free, though some coins will come in handy for turning lights on in chapels. The place mostly draws visitors on the Caravaggio trail. Two canvases painted by that controversial and innovative artist hang in the chapel next to the main altar.

Le Domus Romane di Palazzo Valentini Arrow

The Domus Romane are ancient Roman villas and other structures that were abandoned in antiquity, filled in with debris, and inadvertently used as foundations for Palazzo Valentini, a Renaissance palace turned government office building. They are now underground, obscured by buildings and pavement just beside Piazza Venezia. Booking is required and must be done online.

Santa Maria in Trastevere Arrow

There are hundreds of churches in Rome, but Santa Maria in Trastevere is one of the most breathtaking. Not only are the mosaics and gilded ceiling spectacular, the very skeletal structure of the church is mind-boggling. The columns that support the nave and separate the aisles are single, solid pieces of granite that were lugged across the river in the 12th century after being plundered from the 3rd-century Baths of Caracalla. The church will help you develop a taste for medieval Rome, a period often outshined by the Renaissance and Baroque eras.

Palazzo Massimo Arrow

The Palazzo Massimo's building itself was built by Jesuits in the late 19th century and was only turned into a state-owned museum in 1980. It's next to Stazione Termini, Rome's busiest station, yet few travelers make the trip to see the museum's masterpiece-packed halls. The collection is a mix of Classical sculpture, Imperial frescoes, and Hellenistic baroque-style statuary. After the Vatican Museums and Capitoline Museums, the Palazzo Massimo is a must for ancient art lovers.

Testaccio Market Arrow

This market in one of Rome's most bustling central neighborhoods has all the usual suspects: bread bakeries, produce stalls, fishmongers, butchers, and delis. You'll also find seasonal vegetables like artichokes or zucchini, cuts typical of the local cuisine like tripe and liver, and little chewy pizzas common to Roman bakeries. If you're looking for lunch (or to stock a picnic), hunt down takeaway stalls like the stellar Mordi e Vai, which serves Roman sandwiches near the Via B. Franklin exit. The stalls on the eastern side of the market mainly sell clothes, shoes, and housewares. There's even a hair salon, in case you're needing a touchup.

Pigneto Arrow

Pigneto is popular with Italian college students and twenty- and thirty-somethings who frequent the bars on the "Isola," a pedestrianized stretch of Via del Pigneto, the neighborhood's central artery. It's also a destination for Pasolini fans who visit the streets that were the backdrop for his Neorealist films. It's an acquired taste and may feel too rough-around-the-edges for some, but anyone interested in urbanism and street art, or just thirsty to explore neighborhood's outside of Rome's historic center, will enjoy it.

Baths of Caracalla Arrow

The Baths of Caracalla were a massive public bathing complex built in the third century. Throughout the year, the site is open during the day for visitors to stroll through ruins that were so magnificent they inspired the Main Concourse at Grand Central Terminal. Each summer, the city of Rome's Opera company performs at the Baths, using the towering brick ruins as a backdrop. The contrast of the ancient buildings, celebrated operas, and modern acoustics and lighting is stunning.

Quartiere San Lorenzo Arrow

This working-class neighborhood near Termini station first gained international prominence when Soho House opened their Rome outpost a few years back. Since then, it’s evolved from a rough-around-the-edges student hangout into a decidedly bohemian district, with street art, street food, lively bars, and cool fashion boutiques. To get the most out of the neighborhood, visit in the late afternoon, when fashion boutiques like L’Anatra all’Arancia and La Maison de la Mode will still be open. Refuel with a coffee at the diminutive Giufà Libreria Caffè bookstore-bar, then check out the street art around Via dei Sabelli and Scalo San Lorenzo. Stop by Blackmarket San Lorenzo for a pre-dinner cocktail and vegetarian small plates, or pop into Sanlollo for pizzas, bruschetta, and salted cod. Gelato San Lorenzo does some of the best ice cream in town, all of it organic. Still, don't bring your parents or your fussiest friends here; rather, come with someone who’s up for a cheap-ish night out in a gritty but very cool neighborhood.

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Things to do in Rome: attractions & landmarks

Top 25 rome tourist attractions, sightseeing, what to do & highlights.

Top 25 Best things to do in Rome Italy, sightseeing and all must-see sites, tourist attractions, famous museums, Roman monuments, travel guide and historic landmarks. What to do, highlights and best attractions to see in Rome?

Best things to do in Rome Italy - Top 25 Rome attractions

Rome is a city full of museums, historic squares, rich food culture, Roman landmarks and other highlights. The Italian city has more to offer than just the main Rome tourist attractions like the Colosseum , the Pantheon and St. Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City. To prepare your visit to this city, our travel guides shows you the top 25 of the most famous sightseeing and most beautiful Rome attractions . Click one of the must-see highlights, places to visit or Roman landmarks for more information on this unique monuments, museums , tourist attractions and best things to do in Rome Italy :

Rome sightseeing partnerlinks: Things to do in Seville , Barcelona tourist attractions , Florence tourist attractions and Dubai

Most visited landmarks

Top 25 Things to do in Rome

Colosseum & Tickets

Sistine Chapel & Vatican Museums

St.Peter's Basilica & Tickets

101 Top Things To Do In Rome

You can spend an eternity exploring the Eternal City and still find something new to do every day. Here’s a list of the best things to do in Rome to get you started –  don’t worry, there’s something for everyone.

Walk in The Footsteps of Gladiators at the Colosseum

Can a trip to Rome really be complete without a visit to the Colosseum ? This 2,000-year-old amphitheater is not only the most famous symbol of Rome but has also been declared one of the seven wonders of the modern world.

Step inside and be transported back into a time of epic gladiator fights, roaring crowds, and bloodthirsty emperors. You’ll be able to walk around the tiers, which once held up to 50,000 spectators. See the arena floor from above, and, with a special access ticket, even visit the Hypogeum, the underground labyrinth where gladiators would prepare for battle.

Panem et circenses , anyone?

Stroll Among the Ruins at the Roman Forum

Ever wonder what it was like to live in Ancient Rome? As you walk amongst the ruins of the Roman Forum , you’ll soon find out. This ancient square was once the epicenter of religious, political, and social life in the Roman Republic. 

To get a better appreciation for what you’re looking at, we recommend listening to an audioguide or hiring a tour guide. You’ll learn about the temples, churches, and government buildings that populate the area, and you’ll experience the glory of Rome at the height of its power.

Discover the Legendary Birthplace of Rome on Palatine Hill

Legend has it that Palatine Hill , the most famous of Rome’s seven hills, was the location of the Lupercal Cave – the cave where Romulus and Remus were raised by the she-wolf.

Because of its mythical history and its panoramic views over the city center of Rome, the hill later became known as the most prestigious and desirable neighborhood of ancient Rome, home to emperors and patricians.

Today, you can explore the ruins of ancient palaces belonging to Emperors Augustus and Domitian, learn more in the museum, and visit the Farnese Gardens, one of the first botanical gardens in Europe.

Explore the Smallest Country in the World: Vatican City

Vatican City may be a tiny enclave with an area of less than 0.20 square miles, but it’s packed with stuff to do. Home to the headquarters of the Roman Catholic Church and the holiest of bishops, the pope, this microstate was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1984.

Whether you’re viewing art in the extensive galleries of the Vatican Museums , exploring a ginormous church, or simply laughing at the Swiss Guards’ funny uniforms, one thing’s for sure: you’ll never be bored.

Though it might sound contradictory, you can’t leave Rome without first stepping foot in another country.

Visit the Largest Church in the World: St. Peter’s Basilica

Ironically enough, the world’s largest church happens to be located in the world’s smallest country. St. Peter’s Basilica is not only extremely holy but also extraordinarily beautiful.

Designed and decorated by some of the greatest artists that ever lived, Michelangelo and Bernini , among others, this church is definitely one attraction you just can’t miss.

Though one of the free things to do in Rome, try to get there early as the lines are very long.

View World-Famous Masterpieces at the Vatican Museums

Michelangelo, Caravaggio, Raphael, Da Vinci. Whether or not you’re a fan of art, you’ve almost certainly heard these names. Their masterpieces adorn the galleries of the Vatican Museums , but that’s not all. The museums have everything from Egyptian mummies to modern art, so there’s definitely something for everyone.

With 54 galleries and over 70,000 works of art, it’s impossible to see everything in one day, so make sure you plan your trip well and remember to book your tickets in advance.

Gaze up at Michelangelo’s Frescoes in the Sistine Chapel

Though part of the Vatican Museums, the Sistine Chapel is so crazily famous that it deserves its own number on the list.

The chapel is most known for the nine ceiling panels frescoed by Michelangelo, particularly the central one featuring the creation of Adam , which is one of the most recognizable images in Western art.

However, the chapel walls are also very impressive, especially the enormous fresco of the Last Judgement also painted by Michelangelo. See if you can spot the artist’s alleged self-portrait among the over 300 figures depicted in the scene.

Peel Back the Layers of History at Castel Sant’Angelo

Mausoleum, castle, fortress, refuge, prison: these are the numerous terms used to describe Castel Sant’Angelo over the course of its long and turbulent history. Its various functions over time led to the unique appearance it has today.

Now, it’s a museum where you can learn about its history and explore some of the rooms. Don’t forget to head up to the Angel Terrace to get stunning views of the city of Rome and the Ponte Sant’Angelo below, the beautiful bridge of angels.

Marvel at the World’s Largest Concrete Dome at the Pantheon

The Pantheon , meaning the temple of all gods, is the world’s best-preserved ancient Roman monument. Constructed nearly 2,000 years ago, the fact that the unreinforced concrete dome is still intact is an architectural wonder.

The church is also the final resting place of the famous Renaissance artist Raphael and the first two kings of a unified Italy: Vittorio Emanuele II and Umberto I.

Insider tip: To see something truly magical, head there when it’s raining. There’s something about seeing water pouring freely through the oculus into this sacred space that almost feels divine.

See Baroque Fountains at Piazza Navona

Piazza Navona is one of Rome’s most beautiful squares. Known for its elongated oval shape, it’s also famous for having one of Bernini’s most famous fountains as its centerpiece. The Fountain of the Four Rivers is a Baroque masterpiece featuring four personified rivers and topped by an Egyptian obelisk.

Directly in front of the fountain is the Baroque church of Sant’Agnese in Agone, designed by daring architect Francesco Borromini. Legend has it that there was a rivalry between the two artists.

If you are in Rome at Christmas time, don’t miss the annual Christmas market held here at the piazza.

Toss a Coin (or Two or Three) into the Trevi Fountain

The Trevi Fountain is arguably the most beautiful and famous fountain in the world and one of Rome’s most popular tourist sites. To see the fountain without the hordes of tourists, then go there at the crack of dawn. Trust me, it’s worth it.

According to legend, if you toss one coin into the fountain, you’ll return to Rome; if you toss two in, you’ll meet your true love; if you throw in three, you’ll get married to your true love in Rome.

Enjoy your Roman Holiday at Piazza di Spagna

Piazza di Spagna was put on the map during the 18th and 19th centuries when travelers doing the Grand Tour would stay there. The English influence is certainly felt here, as it’s the location of the Keats-Shelley House museum and Babington’s Tea Room, where you can enjoy an authentic high tea experience.

Piazza di Spagna is also the site of the Spanish Steps, made famous in the 1950s Hollywood film starring Audrey Hepburn.

See the Iconic She-Wolf Statue at the Capitoline Museums

The Capitoline Museums is said to be the world’s first public museum. Housed in two buildings connected by an underground tunnel, the museum contains an incredible collection of ancient statues and other art linked to the city of Rome.

Don’t miss the symbol of Rome, the she-wolf suckling the twins; the gigantic remains of the Colossus of Constantine; or the Equestrian statue of Marcus Aurelius, the only intact bronze statue of antiquity.

Marvel at Michelangelo’s Piazza del Campidoglio

Atop Capitoline Hill is one of the most beautiful squares known to man. Head up there to see the masterpiece known as Piazza del Campidoglio , designed by none other than Michelangelo himself.

The centerpiece of the square is a towering equestrian statue of Marcus Aurelius looking down over the city of Rome, and on either side are the buildings belonging to the Capitoline Museums, but the square is also known for being one of the best places to get a view of the Roman Forum from above.

Ride a Bike Through Villa Borghese

Villa Borghese is one of the largest urban parks in Europe. Situated on Pincian Hill, it’s the perfect combination between lush greenery and romantic Roman sculptures and architecture.

There are many things to see in the park, such as the 19th-century water clock – a feat of engineering – or the Silvano Toti Globe Theatre – a replica of Shakespeare’s Globe, but one of our favorite activities is to rent a bike or rollerskates and zoom through the park on wheels.

Don’t miss the Pincio Terrace for breathtaking panoramic views of Rome. Count the cupolas and see if you can spot St. Peter’s Basilica.

See Bernini Masterpieces at the Galleria Borghese

The Galleria Borghese is one of the most magnificent private art galleries in the world. Not only does it contain paintings by exceptional artists such as Raphael, Caravaggio, and Titian, but it also has one of the finest Baroque sculpture collections in Rome.

The Rape of Proserpina and Apollo and Daphne, both by Bernini, are two great examples of how movement can be immortalized in marble.

If you only have time to see one gallery during your stay in Rome, make sure it’s this one. It is one of the top 10 things to do in Rome.

Explore an Archeological Site at Ostia Antica

Just 19 miles (30 km) outside of Rome’s city center is a large archeological site known as Ostia Antica . What was once a prospering harbor city during the Roman Empire is now a magnificently preserved ancient city in ruins.

Spend an afternoon exploring the remains of taverns, shops, public baths, and even a large theatre, and imagine what life must have been like millennia ago.

Tour an Underground Cemetery at the Catacombs of Saint Callixtus

Known as the most famous of Rome’s Christian catacombs, the Catacombs of Saint Callixtus are also one of the oldest official cemeteries belonging to the Church of Rome, dating back to a time of Christian persecution when they had to bury their dead in secret.

Join a tour to explore the Crypt of the Nine Popes, admire the preserved mosaics, and decode the mysterious Christian symbols carved into the walls.

Spend a day at an Ancient Spa at the Baths of Caracalla

The Romans were well-known for their penchant for taking baths. Spend an afternoon exploring the ruins of Baths of Caracalla , ancient Rome’s second-largest public thermae. Discover its different structures like the natatio, tepidarium, frigidarium, and caldarium.

Then head underground to the exhibition area to learn more about the history of this complex and visit the biggest Mithraeum ever documented.

Monkey Around With Marmosets at the Bioparco

Seeing beautiful churches or ancient ruins is not the only thing to do in Rome. Located on the grounds of one of Rome’s most famous parks, Villa Borghese, is Bioparco , Italy’s oldest and largest zoo.

Whether you’re picnicking with the flamingos by the Oasis of the Lake, gazing at the grizzlies in the Valley of the Bears, or trying to spot the pygmy marmoset, the world’s smallest monkey, Bioparco is great fun for everyone, young or old. Definitely on a list of cool things to do in Rome.

Trot Across the Tiber into Trendy Trastevere

Crossing the Tiber River brings you into Trastevere , one of Rome’s most vibrant neighborhoods. What was once a very local and working-class district has transformed into a funky and bohemian area complete with narrow cobblestone streets, tasty trattorias, and some of the best nightlife in the city.

Insider tip: For a truly local experience and some of the cheapest booze in Rome, grab a drink at Bar San Calisto and people-watch the quirky locals who have been coming here for decades.

Chow down on a Tasty Sandwich at Testaccio Market

Located in the down-to-earth neighborhood of Testaccio, still largely undiscovered by tourists, is one of the best local markets in Rome : Testaccio Market. This airy, glass-roofed structure hosts over a hundred mostly family-run stalls. Though most of them sell fresh and seasonal fruit and vegetables, you can also find homemade clothing and used books as well, but it’s also one of the best places to grab a quick lunch.

For a truly tasty experience, head to Mordi e Vai, a popular stall selling sandwiches with classic Roman ingredients such as ‘ allesso di scottona ’ – slow-cooked beef or, for the more adventurous: tripe or tongue.

Visit the Unusual Landmark Known as the Pyramid of Cestius

Ancient Egypt or ancient Rome? Though many have never even heard of it, this well-preserved structure, located near Porta S. Paolo, is Rome’s version of a pyramid. It was built between 18 and 12 BCE to serve as the burial place for Roman magistrate Gaius Cestius, who demanded that his tomb be constructed in the style of the pharaohs.

Though the inside is temporarily closed, it’s still worth taking a look at from the outside.

Have a Gastronomical Experience at Eataly

Since its opening in 2012, this multi-level superstore has been considered a fundamental stop for all foodies coming to Rome. Inside you’ll find a market selling the highest-quality Italian products, a range of delicious restaurants, and even the opportunity to take cooking classes in situ.

If you’re looking to have a gourmet gastronomical experience in Rome, then Eataly (the fusion of EAT and ITALY) is unmissable.

Enjoy Contemporary Art in an Unusual Setting at the Mattatoio

Located in the heart of Testaccio is Il Mattatoio, a museum in Rome that hosts art exhibitions and events relating to contemporary art. What’s truly special about this place is that it’s been converted into a museum from what was once one of the largest slaughterhouses in Europe.

Talking about unique things to do in Rome.

If you can stomach its macabre past, it’s a great place to discover what’s up and coming in Roman art today.

Insider tip: Where the animals used to be kept in pens is an open area known as the ‘Città dell’Altra Economia’, an alternative space that hosts an organic market, a cafe, and a series of ever-changing events such as vintage markets and beer festivals.

See Past and Present Converge at Piazza Venezia

Located right in the heart of the city center, Piazza Venezia is one of Rome’s busiest hubs in which several thoroughfares intersect. What was once a vast Medieval and Renaissance quarter sitting at the base of Capitoline Hill is now a relatively modern square that hosts an array of impressive buildings, an infamously iconic modern monument, and even a talking statue.

Discover a Darker Chapter of Rome’s Recent History at Palazzo Venezia

Located on the piazza it gives its name to is Rome’s first great Renaissance palace and the oldest remaining building on the square. What started out as a residential palace for a pope and what later became the headquarters of a dictator is now a fantastic museum that displays an eclectic collection of Byzantine and Renaissance art.

Don’t miss the interior secret garden, an oasis of peace and greenery in the middle of Rome’s busy city center.

Visit the “People’s Square” Known as Piazza del Popolo

This large and popular Piazza del Popolo is a great place to hang out or meet up with a friend, but it’s also rife with interesting things to see. To enter the piazza from Via del Corso, you must pass between the twin Baroque churches of Santa Maria dei Miracoli and Santa Maria in Montesanto, a wonderful display of symmetry in architecture, and at its very center stands a 3500-year-old ancient Egyptian obelisk.

The square is also a popular starting point for protests and demonstrations, living up to its name.

See a Buzzing Apian Fountain at Piazza Barberini

Piazza Barberini might not be as popular as many other Roman squares, but it’s still worth a look at just for Bernini’s Baroque fountains alone. The piazza has two of them: the more ostentatious Fountain of the Triton, which is the centerpiece of the square, and the more modest (but equally impressive) Fountain of the Bees, designed for a pope belonging to the Barberini family, whose heraldic symbol was a bee.

The piazza is also a great place to grab a drink or catch a screening at the local cinema.

Interpret a 2000-Year-Old Victory Column at Piazza Colonna

Piazza Colonna is quite fittingly named after the ancient column placed in the center of the square, but that’s not its only attraction. Surrounded by an array of beautiful historical and political palaces (and even the home of the prime minister) and located on a busy shopping street, the piazza has become a symbol of the merging of social, political, and cultural values so deeply embedded in Rome.

While you’re there, try and decipher the war story depicted in relief form on emperor Marcus Aurelius’ victory column.

View Secret Raphael Frescoes at Villa Farnesina

It’s not easy these days to view artwork by the great Renaissance artist Raphael without having to elbow people out of the way, but Villa Farnesina is one of the few places today where this is possible.

This opulent and beautiful mansion, built for a wealthy 16th-century banker, not only contains a whole room of frescoes depicting the story of Cupid and Psyche by Raphael and his workshop but the other rooms in the villa are also intricately decorated by a score of impressive artists.

Haggle at Rome’s Biggest Flea Market: Porta Portese

If you find yourself free on a Sunday morning, then head over to Porta Portese, one of the oldest and most popular flea markets in Rome . This labyrinthine market contains hundreds of stalls selling everything from used and vintage clothing to antique objects and anything in between.

There have been some worries in recent years that the market has been saturated with cheap imported junk, but that just might mean that you have to dig deeper.

Get your Modern Art Fix at the National Gallery of Modern Art

Not all the art in Rome is ancient. The National Gallery of Modern Art is home to the largest collection of modern art in Italy, displaying works from the 19th to the 21st centuries by artists such as Monet, Klimt, Van Gogh, and Pollock.

A must-see for art fans who need a break from the Baroque.

Uncover Three Layers of History at St. Clement Basilica

This hidden gem, located close to the Colosseum, might seem like an ordinary church on the outside, but it’s hiding three levels of history within.

The current St. Clement Basilica , on level one, is a beautiful Romanesque church renovated in the Baroque style, but the real treasure lies below. Head underground to explore level two, which contains the remains of the first basilica built in the 4th century. If that’s not enough, descend deeper to explore the Mithraeum, an ancient temple from the 3rd century.

Admire Hidden Masterpieces at Palazzo Barberini

Palazzo Barberini may be one of Rome’s more underrated museums, but that just makes it more worth your visit because there’ll be fewer people. Its collection alone features masterpieces by artists Raphael, Caravaggio, and Titian, among others, but the palace itself is also stunning. 

Check out the two unique staircases designed by rival artists Bernini and Borromini, and gaze up at the flamboyant grand salon ceiling fresco featuring the Barberini family in all its propagandist glory.

Get Creeped Out at the Capuchin Crypt

This unique and fascinating crypt is definitely not for the faint-hearted, as it contains the bones and mummified remains of nearly 4,000 individuals.

The museum above the crypt, devoted to the history of the Capuchin Order, is normal enough, but most people skim through it on their way downstairs to the main attraction. The bones are contained in a series of five rooms with suggestive names, such as the Crypt of Skulls and the Crypt of Pelvises, and they’re pretty accurate as far as names go.

Although the Catholic order insists it’s not meant to be macabre but a space in which a visitor can reflect on their own mortality, I beg to differ.

View the Portrait of a Pope at Doria Pamphilj Gallery

The Doria Pamphilj Gallery is arguably the best private gallery in Rome (though if you’ve read the whole list, you’ll know that Galleria Borghese gets my vote) and has an impressive collection boasting masterpieces by Raphael, Titian, and Caravaggio. 

The crowning jewel in the gallery’s cap, however, is Velázquez’s Portrait of Pope Innocent X which depicted the pope with such realism that it was considered controversial upon its unveiling.

Explore The City with Ease Using a Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour

Getting around Rome has never been easier now that there are not one but five different Ho-Ho tour companies to choose from. Spend up to three days hopping around the city on a double-decker bus with 360° views and learning about the different sites with the informative audio commentary provided.

Experience Two Different Versions of Campo de’ Fiori

Campo de’ Fiori takes its name from the field of flowers that it used to be, though today, it is a paved and lively square in the city center of Rome.

Visit in the morning to enjoy the fruit, vegetable, and flower market that fills the square almost daily, and come back in the evening to grab a drink at one of the many bars lining the piazza and experience a completely different square.

Don’t forget to gaze up at the statue of the heretical philosopher Giordano Bruno, who was burned at the stake on the very spot he is now commemorated.

Explore the Excavation Site Known as Crypta Balbi

Crypta Balbi and the surrounding area is an excavation site dedicated to the preservation of an entire Roman city block, which consisted of a theater with a crypt, a block of four apartments, and a patio. Visitors to this unique site have the chance to poke around an archeological dig and see the different layers of 2,000 years of history uncovered with their own eyes.

View an Architectural Optical Illusion at Galleria Spada

Though small in size Galleria Spada packs a punch. The collection, hung frame-to-frame in its original 17th-century format, contains beautiful works of art by the likes of Titian and Artemisia Gentileschi.

The real draw to the museum, however, has got to be Borromini’s incredible perspective corridor, a feat of architectural ingenuity that will have you mistrusting your own eyes as you look down an 8-meter-long corridor that looks more like its 40-meters long.

See a Controversial Sculpture at Santa Maria della Vittoria

Santa Maria della Vittoria is a beautifully ornate example of a High Baroque church and is well worth a visit for that reason alone, but it has become famous for Bernini’s controversial sculpture of the Ecstasy of Saint Teresa that resides within.

Saint Teresa leans back with an expression of pure ecstasy as an angel stands over her, ready to pierce her with a golden arrow. What shocks viewers is the sexually charged nature of the scene, which many don’t expect to find in a Catholic setting. Cheeky Bernini got away with it.

Discover an Unusual Tomb at Santa Maria del Popolo

Santa Maria del Popolo’s modest exterior belies the extravagant chapels within, the most famous of which is the Chigi Chapel, designed by Raphael and completed by Bernini. What’s unique about it is the strange pyramidal tomb where Agostino Chigi is interred.

Don’t forget to check out the Cerasi Chapel as well to admire the two dramatic Caravaggio paintings adorning the chapel walls. 

See a Double Facade at Santa Maria Maggiore

Santa Maria Maggiore is one of the four major papal basilicas, one of the Seven Pilgrim Churches of Rome, and the biggest church dedicated to the Virgin Mary in Rome.

If those impressive titles were not enough to make you want to visit it, the stunning mosaics on the 13th-century facade, partially hidden behind the 18th-century Baroque facade, certainly will be.

Visit the “Mother of all Churches”, the Basilica of St. John Lateran

Not only is the Basilica of St. John in Lateran the oldest basilica in the world, but it’s also the highest-ranking of Rome’s four papal basilicas, even surpassing St. Peter’s in the Vatican.

Step inside its grandiose interior and be welcomed by the twelve imposing statues of the apostles, a highlight of the church. 

Don’t miss out on the Cosmatesque Cloister or the octagonal Baptistery either, both located near the basilica.

Complete a Lap at the Circus Maximus

The Circus Maximus was ancient Rome’s first and largest stadium, built in the 6th century BCE. This long, oval arena was principally used for chariot racing, and today, though not much else is left, you can still see the well-worn tracks of the circuit.

It’s a great place to walk around, have a picnic, and gaze up at the ruins over on Palatine Hill across the road. It’s also used as a venue for concerts and other events as well.

Discover a Michelangelo-Designed Cloister Amidst the Ruins of the Baths of Diocletian

The Baths of Diocletian were once the largest baths in Ancient Rome and could hold up to roughly 3,000 people at a time. One thousand years after they were first constructed, Michelangelo was commissioned to build a church and charterhouse on their ruins.

Today, the complex also contains two museums where you can learn about the protohistory of the Latin peoples and see one of the richest collections of ancient inscriptions in the world.

Visit Rome’s Largest Collection of Etruscan Art at Villa Giulia

Housed inside a peaceful and beautiful Renaissance villa on the outskirts of the city center is the National Etruscan Museum , Rome’s only dedicated museum of Etruscan art.

After you’ve explored the pre-Roman collection and learned about the mysterious Etruscans, head outside to the villa’s lush gardens and check out the Nymphaeum, a monument dedicated to the nymphs set in a water garden.

Explore the World’s Largest Collection of Greco-Roman Art at the National Roman Museum

The National Roman Museum actually contains four museums in one: the Baths of Diocletian, Palazzo Altemps, Palazzo Massimo, and Crypta Balbi. Each branch displays its own unique collection and has its own location, but together they make up the world’s largest collection of Greco-Roman art.

Seeing at least one of the branches is highly recommended, though why not buy a combined ticket and see all four?

Pose with an Imperial monument, the Arch of Constantine

Situated right next to the Colosseum on what was once Rome’s Via Triumphalis (the victory road) is what is considered the last great monument of Imperial Rome: the Arch of Constantine .

Constantine’s arch was unique because, as well as showing friezes that celebrated his military victories, it also contains recycled elements from even older Roman monuments.

Posing in front of the arch with the Colosseum as a backdrop makes for a very ‘Imperial’ photo.

See Ancient Propagandist Art at the Ara Pacis

The Ara Pacis , or altar of peace, was a piece of propagandist art erected by Augustus, Rome’s first emperor, to illustrate the peace and prosperity that he claimed he brought to the Roman Republic. Ironically, the altar itself was used to make blood sacrifices in honor of the goddess Pax.

Today, the altar is housed inside a sleek and modern glass pavilion that is a work of art in itself.

View Ancient Sculptures Inside a Former Power Plant

What was once the city’s first electrical power station is now a quirky museum displaying ancient Greek and Roman sculptures in an unusual setting.

Located in the Ostiense neighborhood, Centrale Montemartini is a perfect fusion of Classical antiquity and modern industrialism. It’s a great place to visit for people who want to see some of the unique things to do in Rome.

Risk Your Hand at the Mouth of Truth

The Mouth of Truth may just well be the world’s oldest lie detector. Legend has it that if you stick your hand inside the gaping wide mouth of this ginormous medallion, it will be bitten off if you’re a liar.

Though I can neither confirm nor deny the veracity of these claims, I can guarantee that it makes for a fun photo opportunity for anyone who decides to risk it.

Visit the World’s Oldest Shopping Mall at Trajan’s Market

Walk through the ruins of Trajan’s Market , a 2,000-year-old market complex that once accommodated 150 different shops and vendors. It also contains one of the few remaining examples of a Roman high-rise building with three floors.

Who knew that visiting a shopping mall could be considered a cultural experience?

Get 360° Views of Rome From the Top of the ‘Vittoriano’

Hop inside a glass elevator and ride to the top of the Vittorio Emanuele II Monument, commonly referred to as the Vittoriano or the Altar of the Fatherland, to get panoramic views of the Eternal City below.

The stark white monument itself is also well worth a visit, though, since its unveiling, it has been regarded as a controversial addition to Rome’s monuments by many locals who consider it gaudy and pompous. Whatever you think, it’s certainly imposing.

Shop Till You Drop at Via del Corso and Via Condotti

Italy has always been considered a top destination for fashionistas, and although Milan takes the crown as a world fashion capital, Rome is also highly regarded. 

Two of the most popular shopping streets in Rome run right through the city center. They are Via del Corso for more high-street shopping (though Fendi has a Flagship store here) and a street that runs perpendicular to it, known as Via Condotti, for more luxury brands.

See Shimmering Gold Mosaics at Santa Maria in Trastevere

Located in the heart of Trastevere, this Romanesque church has its origins in the third century, during a time when Christianity was not yet accepted, making it one of the oldest churches in Rome.

It’s most notable for the shimmering golden mosaics on its facade and in the apse and for its 12th-century bell tower. If you’re in Trastevere, you can’t miss it.

Chill out in the District of Monti, Rome’s Hipster Hotspot 

Brimming with vintage stores, artisan boutiques, and trendy bars serving wine and craft beers, Monti has made a name for itself as one of the hippest and most arty districts in Rome.

Mingle with the Roman hipsters on the steps of the fountain in Piazza della Madonna dei Monti, or head to Mercato Monti on the weekends to do some serious vintage shopping.

See Fascist Architecture in EUR

Although originally designed by order of fascist dictator Mussolini to host the World Expo Fair of 1942 and to celebrate 20 years of Fascism, the planned exhibition never took place due to the outbreak of World War II.

Today, the district has evolved into a business and residential area, but it’s still a fascinating stop for tourists who want to have a look at the austere fascist architecture – in particular, the building known as the “Square Colosseum”.

Forget the Bustle of the City at Villa Doria Pamphili

Walking through Villa Doria Pamphili, Rome’s largest urban public park, it’s easy to forget that you’re inside a big and bustling city.

Located on a hill in the Monteverde district, this peaceful park offers a total immersion into nature – apart from the Baroque villa known as the Casino del Bel Respiro (“small villa of good breath”) and the presence of beautiful statues and fountains. You’re still in Rome, after all.

Eat Pizza al Taglio – Rome’s Favorite Street Food

Dotted throughout the city are thousands of pizza al taglio (pizza by the slice) places serving, you guessed it, pizza by the slice. Baked in rectangular trays and with a variety of different toppings, the pizza is then sold by weight depending on how much of it you want, and sliced into a square or rectangular shape.

Many Italians grab a slice for lunch or for a snack when they’re too busy to have a two-hour lunch, and it’s the perfect option for when you’re sightseeing too.

Roma’s insider tip: For the best pizza al taglio in Rome, check out “I Suppli” in the Trastevere district and order a suppli (fried tomato rice ball) to go with your pizza slice.

Spend a Night at the Opera at the Baths of Caracalla

Every summer, from June to August, the ancient ruins of the Baths of Caracalla become the setting for an open-air opera festival. This has been a yearly tradition dating back to 1937, only moving briefly to Circus Maximus for two years since 2020 because of covid social distancing rules.

Now they’re back at the baths, and you can enjoy listening to arias and arpeggios in one of the most jaw-droppingly dramatic settings you’ve ever seen.

Pay your Respects to Percy at the Protestant Cemetery

The Cimitero Acattolico (Non-Catholic or Protestant Cemetery) is also often referred to as the English Cemetery because not only does it look like it was plucked straight out of an English storybook, but it also holds the graves of two very famous English poets: John Keats and Percy Bysshe Shelley, both of who died while sojourning in Rome.

If you’re feeling particularly ‘Romantic’, have a wander through the graves as you contemplate the meaning of life and the sublimity of nature.

Bask in The Sun at a Beach Near Rome

A day at the beach may not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of Rome, but when those temperatures start to soar, you might find that it’s exactly what you need. Many visitors to Rome don’t know that there are a lot of beautiful beaches only a short train ride away. 

The best beaches within an hour of Rome are: Fregene, Lido di Ostia, Anzio, and Santa Marinella

So slap on your sunscreen, borrow a beach read, and get ready to sunbathe on the sand.

Watch a Movie at an Open-Air Cinema on a Roman Piazza

During the hot summer months, Rome is most alive after the sun sets when people no longer need to seek refuge from the hot midday heat. One of the most pleasant ways to enjoy a balmy summer evening is to attend a screening at one of the open-air cinemas that pop up in piazzas and parks during this time of year.

Check out “Il Cinema in Piazza” at Piazza San Cosimato for free screenings in their original languages and “L’Isola del Cinema” on Tiber island for their annual international festival of cinema and culture.

Walk Along an Ancient Aqueduct at Parco delle Aquedotti

Just a short metro ride away from the city center lies Parco delle Aquedotti, a giant suburban park that holds the remains of two ancient Roman aqueducts . Visitors to the park have the chance to get up close and personal with these incredible structures that used to carry water from mountains in the east of Lazio to the center of Rome as they hike, jog, or cycle beside them.

See Movie Magic at Cinecitta Studios

Take a tour of the iconic film studios at Cinecitta, which were used to film many Oscar-winning Italian and international movies. First opened in 1937, the studios now contain many impressive sets and exhibitions. Here you can walk through ancient Rome or 16th-century Florence, learn all about auteur Federico Fellini, and discover the magic behind movie-making.

Step Foot on Tiber Island, Rome’s Only Island

The legendary river island known as Tiber Island was once the site of a temple dedicated to Aesculapius, the Greek god of medicine and healing. Today, this boat-shaped isle continues its legacy of healing by being home to a working hospital first established in 1585.

Although the hospital should only be visited if you’re a patient, there’s still plenty to do: visit the Basilica of St Bartholomew, which stands on the site of the old temple, admire the “Infamous Column”, or descend to the base of the island to look at the Pons Aemilius, the remains of the oldest stone bridge in Rome.

Do a Double Take at the Theatre of Marcellus

No, that’s not the Colosseum you’re looking at. Although they look similar, the Theatre of Marcellus is an ancient open-air theater that actually predates the Colosseum by nearly 100 years.

Although you can’t go inside, you can walk around the grounds amidst the ruins of ancient columns haphazardly piled around or even walk right up to the arches of the theatre itself. And while the Colosseum itself is always teeming with tourists, this mini version is much more quiet.

Eat Fried artichokes in the Jewish Ghetto

The Roman Ghetto, constructed in 1555, is the oldest ghetto in the Western world. Today, it’s considered one of Rome’s most beautiful lesser-known neighborhoods, with plenty to see and do.

Walk through the ancient ruins of the Portico D’Ottavia, dating back to the 2cd century BCE; have a look at Bernini’s famous turtle fountain; visit the iconic Synagogue, the largest in Rome; or, if you happen to be there on the right season, eat carciofi alla giudia , Jewish-style artichokes that have been fried to perfection.

Eat a Roman Pasta Dish at a Local Trattoria

Though pasta is eaten throughout the whole of Italy, there are four pasta dishes that are considered classics in Rome and are the top things to do in Rome on your visit to the city. They are: Carbonara, Cacio e Pepe, Gricia, and Amatriciana. All four recipes use pecorino romano, a sheep’s milk cheese considered fundamental to the dishes. 

A true Roman will argue that the only place in the world to get a ‘real’ Carbonara is in Rome. Order one in one of the many local trattorias dotted around Rome. Just don’t ask for parmesan on your pasta, that’s considered culinary heresy.

Bask in the opulence of Nero’s Golden House

After the great fire of Rome in 64 CE, the notorious Emperor Nero ordered the construction of his new residence, the Domus Aurea. It was a ginormous complex decorated sumptuously with gold, precious gems, and marble and is considered the most extravagant construction in the history of Rome.

Today, only some of the areas of Oppian Hill are open to visitors, but even though they no longer contain any gold, they are still definitely worth a visit.

See the Sunset From the Orange Garden on Aventine Hill

Aventine Hill might not get as much love as some of Rome’s other hills, but that just makes it nicer because it’s less crowded to visit.

For a stunning view of St. Peter’s Basilica and the city of Rome, climb up to the viewing point located in the Orange Garden, a spectacular public garden covered in pretty (though inedible) orange trees and Rome’s iconic stone pine trees. For added romance, head up there at sunset and then walk back down through the Rome Rose Garden, which contains more than a thousand varieties of Roses.

Peep at St. Peter’s Through the Aventine Keyhole

What was once one of Rome’s best-kept secrets is now a fairly well-known attraction, though there are still not too many tourists who come here.

Through the tiny keyhole of a nondescript green door (leading to the priory of the Knights of Malta) lies the most stunning and unique view in Rome. Peek through it, and you’ll see St. Peter’s iconic cupola perfectly centered and framed by the manicured hedges of the Maltese garden.

No one knows whether this viewpoint was planned or just a happy coincidence.

See funky Street Art in Ostiense

Roman art tends to be of the more ancient or baroque variety, but there is one neighborhood making a name for itself as Rome’s leading street art district: Ostiense.

What was once a crumbling industrial district is now an up-and-coming trendy area thanks to an urban art project launched in 2015.

Walk around this colorful quarter to see some of the coolest murals and street art in Rome.

Escape the Bustling City in the Botanical Garden

Between the neighborhood of Trastevere and Janiculum Hill lies a serene green oasis not much visited by tourists. The Botanical Garden of Rome covers an area of about 12 hectares and has around 400 species of trees and plants.

Some of the highlights include the Corsini Greenhouse, which contains varieties of succulents and cacti, the Greenhouse of Orchids, some of which are incredibly rare, and the Japanese Garden, which comes alive with color in the Spring.

See Spectacular Views of Rome From its ‘Eighth Hill’

The Janiculum Hill, sometimes referred to as the “Balcony of Rome”, offers one of the most stunning panoramas of the city, with a completely different viewpoint from many of the others. Some say it’s the best in Rome.

Though sunset and sunrise are the most recommended times to head up there, the view is still spectacular from any time of day. Just don’t get startled by the blast of the cannon that goes off every day at midday.

Visit a Local Cat Sanctuary With a Very Dramatic Setting

Smack bang in the center of a busy traffic hub lies Largo di Torre Argentina, an archeological site featuring four temples and the Theatre and Curia of Pompey – now turned into a cat sanctuary.

This once tragic location, the setting of Julius Caesar’s betrayal and assassination, is now a popular area for cat-spotting. Many come here to snap a picture of the furry felines living their best lives amidst the ruins. Honestly, some of the most unique and fun things to do in Rome.

Contemplate Caravaggio Paintings in the Church of St. Louis of the French

Rome has over 900 churches, and it’s virtually impossible to see them all, so it’s important to make a well-chosen selection upon your visit to Rome. The Church of St. Louis of the French should definitely be on your list. 

While it might just seem like any other church from the outside, it’s anything but on the inside. This church is home to an incredible trio of Caravaggio paintings known as the St. Matthew cycle. It’s some of Caravaggio’s most celebrated work and a fabulous example of his chiaroscuro technique, made all the more dramatic by the setting of the church.

Discover an Architectural Fantasyland – the Quartiere Coppedè

In the northern part of the city lies a fantastical and frankly a bit bizarre area known as the Quartiere Coppedè. This mishmash of architectural styles: Ancient Greek, Baroque, Medieval, Renaissance, and Art Nouveau, was dreamt up by architect Gino Coppedè, who worked on it until his death in 1927.

This whimsical neighborhood is perfect for visitors who want to get off the beaten track. Look out for all the fantastical floral and mythological details that adorn the buildings.

Be Deceived by a Trompe L’oeil at the Church of St. Ignatius

The Church of St. Ignatius of Loyola is one of Rome’s most important Jesuit churches and is often visited by pilgrims. But one of its main draws for the more secular visitor is the cleverly-depicted fake dome frescoed by Andrea Pozzo.

Apparently, funds to build an actual dome were lacking, so Pozzo was hired to use his skills to create an illusion of a bigger space. The effect is surprisingly realistic. Use the conveniently-placed mirror to get a better look at the details.

Go Shopping in (Art Nouveau) Style at the Galleria Alberto Sordi

Located on Via del Corso, in the heart of the city center, is the Galleria Alberto Sordi, named after one of Rome’s best-loved actors.

This beautiful shopping arcade with its gorgeous glass ceiling is one of the few examples of Art Nouveau architecture in the city center.

Today it’s home to around 15 stores, including a famous bookshop and a coffee shop, but it’s also just nice to stroll through on your way through the city center.

See Prize-Winning Modern Architecture at MAXXI

MAXXI is Italy’s first national museum of contemporary art and architecture. It’s a great place to visit when you need a break from all the ruins, and you want to learn more about Italy’s future in art. 

One of the main draws, however, is the architecture of the museum itself. Designed by Zaha Hadid in 2010, this prize-winning building manages to hold its own among all of Rome’s ancient monuments.

Admire a Cute Elephant at Piazza della Minerva

Right behind the Pantheon is a small and mostly-ignored square known as Piazza della Minerva. There are two reasons why you should pay it a visit. 

One is to see the adorable sculpture of a little elephant holding an obelisk, designed by none other than Bernini. The other reason is to check out the star-studded ceiling of the church of Santa Maria sotto Minerva located on the piazza. It’s different from many other church ceilings.

Visit the Tomb of Rome’s First Emperor at the Mausoleum of Augustus

Back in March 2021, after 14 years of closure, Emperor Augustus’ Mausoleum had finally been reopened to the public. 

Now, visitors get a chance to explore the burial ground of Rome’s first emperor in the largest circular tomb in the world and learn all about the history behind this fascinating structure.

Eat Breakfast Italian Style at Your Local ‘Bar’

If you want to enjoy colazione (breakfast) as an Italian would, head down to your nearest local cafe, which Italians call bars, and order a cappuccino and a cornetto (croissant) standing up at the counter. 

Not only will you pay less than if you got table service, but you might even be mistaken for a local. Just remember not to order a cappuccino after midday, as Italians believe you’ll get indigestion from the milk when it’s later in the day. Only ‘caffès’ after twelve, and whatever you do, don’t call it an espresso.

Party in San Lorenzo, Rome’s Student District

Once upon a time, the district of San Lorenzo was largely snubbed in favor of more tourist-friendly districts, but nowadays, it’s considered an up-and-coming neighborhood thanks to its bohemian vibe and thriving student population.

Head there in the evening to check out the street art and grab a drink in one of the many new bars popping up.

Visit Livia’s Garden at Palazzo Massimo

One of my favorite hidden gems in Rome is Livia’s paradisiacal garden, a delightfully frescoed room discovered in Emperor Augustus’ wife’s house, the Villa of Livia, in 1863. Now it can be found in a purpose-built room at the Palazzo Massimo.

The walls were frescoed in the years 30-20 BCE, but the Eden-like scene it depicts is still vivid to this day. Gazing at the lush garden filled with ripe trees and delicate birds feels like stepping into a dream, one shared with a Roman empress over 2000 years ago.

See a Unique Floor Plan at Santo Stefano Rotondo al Celio

This round church, constructed in 483, was the first in Rome to have a circular plan. In the 15th century, the church came under the care of the Pauline Father, a Catholic order founded by Hungarians, and today the church is considered Hungary’s national church in Rome.

What makes it special is its unique round form, a shape often used when constructing Roman mausoleums. It’s said that the famous architect Leon Battista Alberti himself helped restore it. Architectural buffs will be delighted by this hidden gem.

Savor an Italian Coffee at Antigua Tazza D’Oro

Located just a stone’s throw away from the Pantheon , La Casa del Caffè Tazza D’Oro is one of Rome’s favorite cafès. Loved by tourists and locals alike for its cheap and delicious coffee, it’s the only craft antique coffee company located in the historic center.

Try their famous granita di caffè, an iced coffee with whipped cream on top perfect for the summer months. Otherwise, just ask for a caffè and have it standing at the bar before heading back into sightseeing.

Bike or Stroll Along the Appian Way

Via Appia Antica, or the Appian Way , is one of the oldest and most strategically important roads to the ancient Roman Republic. It used to connect Rome all the way to Brindisi, located in the heel of Italy. 

Today, it’s one of the most beautiful roads to walk or bike along, traversing idyllic landscapes and ancient catacombs. Some stretches of the road even have ancient paving stones with visible carriage tracks.

Galleria Sciarra

Located just a few steps away from the Trevi fountain, this hidden Art Nouveau courtyard contains opulent frescoes and a glass and iron ceiling that will transport you right back to the turn of the 20th century.

Built for the wealthy Sciarra family, the elegant floral designs and the colorful frescoes of women in various phases of life, which make this building so different from the surrounding ones, are well worth a quick visit.

Catch a Game at the Stadio Olimpico

With seating for over 70,000 people, Stadio Olimpico is the largest sports facility in Rome. Called the Olympic Stadium because it hosted the opening and closing ceremonies of the 1960 Summer Olympics, the stadium is now mostly known for being the home stadium of the Roma and Lazio football clubs.

For any football fan, watching a game at the Stadio Olimpico makes for a perfect break in between sightseeing.

Take Part in an Italian Tradition: The Aperitivo

It’s common knowledge that Italians love to eat… and that they love to eat late. For some visitors accustomed to a different schedule, this could mean waiting a long time before the restaurants open.

The solution is to partake in one of Italy’s favorite traditions: the aperitivo . Designed to whet your appetite before dinner, the aperitivo is a pre-meal drink (think negroni) and snack that occurs between 6 and 8 after the working day has ended. 

You know what they say: “When in Rome, do as the Romans do.”

Insider tip: Check out Freni e Frizioni in Trastevere for one of the best aperitivos in Rome.

Go for a Passeggiata along the Tiber River

Take part in the Italian rite known as the passeggiata a leisurely stroll usually taken after meals. But, instead of walking through town, why not head down to the banks of river Tiber at sunset and take in the view?

The Tiber banks are a favorite of joggers and cyclists, but it’s also just a wonderful and usually quiet area to stroll. The stretch between Tiber Island and Castel Sant’Angelo is a favorite.

Get off the Beaten track in Garbatella

Often overlooked by tourists, Garbatella is younger and quite different from other Roman neighborhoods. Established in 1920 as part of a planned community for workers, it was modeled on the garden city suburbs popular in England at the time.

Walking around Garbatella’s serene green spaces and brightly colored streets gives you the opportunity to see a completely different side of Rome.

Spend a Night out in Edgy Pigneto

Often compared to Brooklyn or Shoreditch, Pigneto is fastly becoming Rome’s coolest area to get a drink, listen to live music, or simply just hang out.

Located behind Termini train station, Pigneto was once considered a little rough around the edges, but it’s now known for its alternative and edgy vibe. Head there for things to do in Rome at night or when you want to grab a cheap drink and party with the locals.

Leave the City Center to see St. Paul Outside the Walls

The Basilica of St. Paul Outside the Walls is often passed over by tourists because of its location far outside the historic center, but missing out on this magnificent basilica would be a mistake.

Founded on the burial ground of St. Paul, it’s one of the four major papal basilicas in Rome and the second largest after St. Peters. The beautiful golden mosaics alone are worth leaving the city center for.

Eat a Gelato (Fatamorgana)

Ge-la-to. Is any other combination of syllables so beautiful?

Whether you’re looking for something more traditional (Giolitti) or want to taste something more avant-garde (Fatamorgana), there’s something for everyone. 

But everyone has a different opinion on what’s the best gelateria in Rome, so the only possible solution to finding your favorite is to eat as much gelato as possible as many times a day as possible. Trust me, you won’t regret it.

Break up Your Roman Holiday With a Day-Trip

One of the greatest things about Rome is its close proximity to so many other outstanding places. If you want to take a brief trip outside of Rome, the options are endless.

Head to Pompeii to see an archeological site; Florence for a Renaissance city; Bolsena to spend a day at a lake. Or simply close your eyes and point your finger at the map at random, you’re bound to end up somewhere spectacular.

And Lastly, Throw Away This List and Follow Your Feet

Rome has been standing for over 2,000 years, and it is still evolving today. No matter how many times you go there, there will always be something new to discover. It’s impossible for one list, to sum up all the beauty and wonder that makes up Rome – you just need to see it for yourself.

So, close your guidebook, put away your phone, and let your feet guide you and explore memorable things to do in Rome. Peek inside every open doorway you pass and wander down every cobblestoned side street. And remember to drink it all in. 

Happy exploring.

Touropia Travel

Discover the World

25 Top Tourist Attractions in Rome

By Mike Kaplan · Last updated on May 22, 2024

Ah, Rome. The city where hope springs eternal. It is a city that is proud of its ancient glorious heritage, a city that once expanded its empire throughout Europe, Africa and Asia. Rome is a city drenched in history and Christianity. First-time visitors may be easily overwhelmed by all this magnificent city has to offer. After all, one can find history and art on almost every street corner. That’s why visitors may want to do their homework to narrow down what they want to see and do before they get on a plane or train bound for the Italian capital.

Rome is divided into several districts with its center, the Colosseo district, containing the most ancient attractions like the Colosseum, Capitoline Hill and the Roman Forum. On the outskirts of the center is Old Rome, featuring the Pantheon, stunning cathedrals, plazas and Renaissance architecture.

Map of Rome

Unfortunately, it’s not possible to see all the top tourist attractions in Rome in a few days or even a few months. Wise travelers won’t even attempt to see everything in one trip. To ensure they’ll return to Rome, they’ll toss a coin into the Fountain of Trevi. Legend has it that those who do will return to Rome again.

25. Baths of Caracalla

The Baths of Caracalla, the second largest public baths in Rome, were built by Emperor Caracalla in the third century for political propaganda purposes: The emperor simply wanted people to like him.

The baths were functional for over three hundred years. Negligence, looting and an earthquake turned the complex into ruins but their sheer size and ingenuity continues to impress visitors.

24. Villa Farnesina

Visitors who want a peek at how the wealthy lived during the Renaissance may want to visit Villa Farnesina , a villa located in the Trastevere district. The Villa Farnesina is well known for the frescoes depicting the myths of Cupid and Psyche that were painted by Raphael.

Works by various other artists were commissioned by a banker who was also a papal treasurer, and who had the villa built in 1506.

23. Appian Way

The Appian Way is the most famous ancient road in Rome, connecting the city with Brindisi in southeastern Italy. Named after Appius Claudius Caecus, a Roman censor, it was originally a military road.

Many historical monuments can be found along the first 8 km (5 miles) of the 560 km (350-mile) stone road today. This old highway has heavy vehicle traffic at the beginning, but is safe for pedestrians after a couple of miles.

22. National Roman Museum

If you want to soak in as much of Rome’s history, heritage and culture as possible, then don’t miss the National Roman Museum, or the Museo Nazionale Romano .

This Roman museum does not house its entire collection in one spot. Instead, exhibits are located in multiple destinations throughout the city. Find amber, Roman artifacts and jewelry within the incredible Palazzo Massimo alle Terme, admire breathtaking use of marble and stunning sculptures within the Palazzo Altemps and get an up-close look at Roman baths at the restored historic site of the Baths of Diocletian.

21. Victor Emmanuel II Monument

Built in honour of Victor Emmanuel, the first king of a unified Italy, this bombastic monument may appear to be solid white marble but actually contains many rooms inside. It was designed by Giuseppe Sacconi in 1885 and completed in 1925.

There are two permanent museums, one on Italian Reunification and one on emigration from Italy, as well as other spaces that host rotating exhibitions. The Victor Emmanuel Monument is not exactly known as one of Rome’s most beautiful structures but it is nevertheless well worth the visit, even if only for the great views from the top.

20. Piazza del Popolo

The Piazza del Popolo is a large oval square in northern Rome that has been around since the days of the Roman Empire. At one time, it was the start of the most important road north.

Three churches border the square but the eye-catcher is an obelisk from ancient Egypt. On the north side the square is dominated by the Porta del Popolo, which leads to the Via Flaminia, a road connecting Rome with the Adriatic coast.

19. Santa Maria in Trastevere

Santa Maria in Trastevere is one of the oldest churches in Rome, with most historians believing it was first built in the 4th century. The church has impressive mosaics from the 12th and 13th centuries; it has been enlarged and restored over the years.

Located in the popular Trastevere neighborhood, its atmospheric piazza is enhanced by the mosaics on the façade, especially at night when the church and its tower are illuminated.

18. Ostia Antica

Ostia Antica is an important archeological site that once was the seaport for Rome. It is located less than 20 miles from Rome at the mouth of the River Tiber. The site has well-preserved ancient buildings, some of which date back to the fourth century BC.

Ostia Antica is known for the outstanding frescoes and mosaics on these old buildings, as well as ancient public toilets that turned bathrooms into a social setting.

17. Basilica of San Clemente

Located just a few blocks from the Coliseum, the 12th century Basilica of San Clemente is built on top of a 4th century Church and older Roman temple. The present church is noted for its fabulous frescoes and mosaics.

For an admission fee, it is possible to explore the excavations of the lower two levels, which is a fascinating journey into the history of Rome.

16. Capitoline Museums

It may have taken the Romans 400 years to build the Capitoline Museums , after they were designed in 1536 by Michelangelo, but the wait was worth it. This outstanding collection of art and archeological museums, which started with a papal donation in the 15th century, can be found at Piazza del Campidoglio atop Capitoline Hill. The collections include medieval and Renaissance art, old Roman statues and jewels.

15. Palatine Hill

Palatine Hill, one of the Seven Hills of Rome, has links to Roman mythology, as it was here a wolf allegedly found the twin boys Romulus and Remus, and cared for them until a shepherd rescued them.

Even if this legend is not true, Palatine Hill is still the place where Rome was founded. Today only ruins remain but during the Imperial era, the hill was completely built up with large palaces.

14. San Giovanni in Laterano

San Giovanni in Laterano (St. John Lateran) is one of four major basilicas in Rome. Dedicated to John the Baptist and John the Evangelist, it is the home cathedral for both the archbishop of Rome and the pope.

It is believed to be the first Catholic church built in Rome. Its exterior doesn’t seem as ornate as other churches, but inside it’s beautiful decorated, with wall ornaments, columns, mosaics and paintings.

13. Galleria Borghese

The Galleria Borghese is an art gallery that was built as a party house by Cardinal Sciopione Borghese in the 17th century. A nephew of Pope Paul V, the cardinal also was a patron of the arts.

The galleria today houses many pieces of paintings, sculptures and other antiquities from his collection. Paintings by Titian, sculptures by Bernini, and the National Museum of Musical Instruments can be seen here.

12. Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore

Founded in the 4th century, the Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore (St. Mary Major) is considered one of the most important Catholic churches in Rome. Its 18th-century exterior conceals one of the best-preserved Byzantine interiors in the city.

Travelers who are in Rome on August 5 may want to attend the Miracle of the Snows celebration when thousands of white petals are dropped from the ceiling.

11. Saint Peter’s Square

Located in Vatican City, St. Peter’s Square is the most famous square in Rome. Hundreds of thousands of people gather here to hear messages from the pope. Created in the 17th century by Bernini, the square has an elliptic shape, surrounded on two sides by colonnades before St. Peter’s Basilica.

Statues sit atop the colonnades. At the center of the ellipse stands an Egyptian obelisk that was transported from Egypt to Rome during the reign of Emperor Augustus.

10. Campo de’ Fiori

Campo de’ Fiori is a rectangular square south of Piazza Navona used as a marketplace during the day, and party central for college students and tourists at night. The name means “field of flowers” and was first given during the Middle Ages when the area was actually a meadow.

Today the market is a lively place, especially when the daily vegetable market is held here (every morning except Sundays). Visitors can buy fresh produce at the market, as well as fish, meat, flowers and spices. The square is surrounded by cafes and restaurants, making it a good place to eat after shopping or just wile away the afternoon.

9. Piazza Navona

One of the most famous of Rome’s many squares, Piazza Navona was established towards the end of the 15th century, and preserves the shape of the Stadium of Domitian that once stood here.

Built by Emperor Domitian in 86 AD, the stadium, which had a larger arena than the Colosseum was mainly used for festivals and sporting events. The buildings surrounding the square stand where the spectators once sat.

Today, the square features no less than three magnificent fountains and is an immensely popular place to sip a cappuccino, shop, and watch street performers.

8. Castel Sant’Angelo

Castel Sant’Angelo was built to be a mausoleum for the Emperor Hadrian and his family. Built in 123 BC, it later was turned into a fortress and castle by the popes. It was once Rome’s tallest building.

The ashes of other emperors were buried there, but scattered when the Visigoths invaded in 410. It also served as a prison, but today the castel is a museum. Among the most well known sights in Rome, film buffs will recognize it as a setting from “Angels and Demons”.

7. Roman Forum

Located in the small valley between the Palatine and Capitoline Hills, The Roman Forum (or Forum Romanum in Latin) was for centuries the teeming heart of ancient Rome: the site of triumphal processions and elections, venue for public speeches, and nucleus of commercial affairs.

The Forum today is a sprawling ruin of architectural fragments and includes the Arches of Septimius Severus and Titus, the Temple of Antoninus Pius and Faustina and the Temple of Saturn.

6. Spanish Steps

A truly monumental stairway of 135 steps, the Spanish Steps were built with French funds between 1721‑1725 in order to link the Bourbon Spanish embassy to the Holy See with the French church, Trinità dei Monti.

The steps are usually very crowded attracting tourists as well as locals who use it as a gathering place. Each year in May the steps are decorated with pink azaleas. At the foot of the Spanish Steps is the Piazza di Spagna (Spanish square) and the Fontana della Barcaccia, a sober fountain designed by Gian Lorenzo Bernini.

5. Trevi Fountain

Completed in 1762 to a design by Nicola Salvi, this world famous Baroque fountain features a mythological sculptural composition of Neptune, god of the sea, flanked by two Tritons.

The location of the Trevi fountain marks the terminus of the ancient Aqua Virgo aqueduct and is so named on account of its position at the junction of three roads (tre vie).

The fountain was the setting for an iconic scene in Fellini’s film Dolce Vita starring Anita Ekberg and Marcello Mastroianni. Since than, it has become one of the most popular tourist attractions in Rome. The legend says that one who throws a coin in the fountain shall one day return to Rome.

4. Vatican Museums

The Vatican Museums began in the 16th century with a collection of sculptures by Pope Julius II. Today, they encompass several museums inside the Vatican City and include some of the world’s most important relics. Attractions of the museums include the spiral staircase, the Raphael Rooms and the exquisitely decorated Sistine Chapel. Michelangelo painted the chapel ceiling between 1508 and 1512.

Today the ceiling, and especially The Last Judgment, are widely believed to be Michelangelo’s crowning achievements in painting. To keep the massive crowds under control, the museums have 4 itineraries that range from one and a half hours to more than 5 hours. All itineraries end in the Sistine Chapel.

3. Pantheon

One of the best preserved Roman buildings, The Pantheon was built in 126 AD as a temple for all the Roman gods. The temple has served as a Roman Catholic Church since the 7th century. Eight graceful granite Corinthian columns extend across the front of this circular building, with lesser columns in back.

Though it is 2,000 years old, the Pantheon’s famous dome remains the world’s largest unreinforced concrete dome. It is believed Marcus Agrippa built the Pantheon to be his private temple. The current building was reconstructed by Emperor Hadrian in the second century.

2. St. Peter’s Basilica

The center of the Catholic world and a major tourist attraction, the Basilica of St. Peter is a huge church: with an interior height of 120 meter (400 feet), the space shuttle, together with its booster rockets, could fit inside, as could the Statue of Liberty.

The basilica stands on the traditional site where Peter, the apostle who is considered the first pope, was crucified and buried. Construction on the current building began in 1506 and was completed in 1615. Many famous artists worked on the complex and its surroundings: Michelangelo designed the dome while Bernini designed the great St. Peter’s Square.

1. Colosseum

The Colosseum is another of Rome’s major tourist attractions. Its construction was started by emperor Vespasian of the Flavian dynasty in 72 AD and was finished by his son Titus in 80 AD.

The elliptical amphitheater could hold up to 50,000 people who turned out to watch gladiators do battle, people be publicly executed and enjoy other forms of entertainment. This stone and concrete structure, built in the first century, was the largest amphitheater in the Roman Empire. It is considered one of the Romans’ greatest architectural and engineering feats.

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Reader interactions.

October 1, 2017 at 5:15 am

Rome is really majestic! I would love to see these beautiful architectures soon.

May 22, 2014 at 10:50 am

this is so nice

February 1, 2014 at 2:29 am

it is very nice to see Italy, the famous pantheon, koloseum and a lot of other places to see. When i visit it i saw a lot. Bravoo Italy, the most beautiful place in the world.

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20 Best Things to Do in Rome, According to Locals

From picnicking in the shadow of ancient aqueducts to sipping cocktails at the hottest new rooftop bar, these are the best things to do in Rome.

Laura Itzkowitz is a freelance writer and editor based in Rome. She has been contributing to Travel + Leisure since 2014, when she started as a fact checker before becoming a contributing digital editor in 2015 and going freelance in 2016. She has also held positions as a contributing editor at The Points Guy and the NYC cities editor at DuJour Magazine. In addition to Travel + Leisure , her writing has appeared in Architectural Digest , Surface Magazine , Brooklyn Magazine , T Magazine , The Wall Street Journal , Vogue, GQ, Departures, Afar, Fodor's, Town & Country , Condé Nast Traveler , Robb Report , Hemispheres, and others. When she's not jetsetting around Italy and beyond, she can be found in Rome, enjoying some cacio e pepe or relaxing at home with her husband and two dogs. Originally from the Boston area, Laura moved to New York City in 2011 to pursue a master's degree in creative writing and translation at Columbia University. She also holds a bachelor's degree in French from Smith College. * 10+ years of experience writing and editing * Co-wrote "New York: Hidden Bars & Restaurants," an award-winning guide to New York City's speakeasy scene published by Jonglez Editions in 2015 * Contributed to "Fodor's Brooklyn," published by Penguin Random House in 2015, which won silver in the Lowell Thomas Travel Journalism competition * Contributed an essay to "Epic Hikes of Europe," published by Lonely Planet in 2021 * Updated the 2022 edition of "Fodor's Essential Italy"

© Marco Bottigelli/Getty Images

When planning a trip to Rome, first-time visitors usually want to check the Colosseum and the Vatican off their lists, throw a coin in the Trevi Fountain, and indulge in heaping plates of pasta, pizza, and gelato. And while those things are all worth doing, there’s so much more to do in the Eternal City.

Just consider that aside from the Vatican, Rome is home to more than 900 churches — and many of them contain precious works of art. And the Colosseum is just one of many archeological sites where you can learn more about the Roman Empire. But Rome is far from stuck in the past, and some of the best things to do include seeing modern and contemporary art exhibitions, admiring 1930s architecture, spotting street art, and checking out the city’s swanky new hotels.

Of course, Romans are passionate about food and wine, and everyone has their favorite places for pizza, pasta, gelato, coffee, wine, and cocktails. In fact, it would be easy to plan a whole trip to Rome around meals and aperitivos. You could start your day with a cappuccino at an old-school café, twirl spaghetti carbonara, sip an Aperol spritz at a rooftop bar, eat award-winning pizza, and sample some of the city’s most unusual gelato flavors all in a day.

Having lived in Rome for nearly five years and having visited many times before that, I’ve tried to take advantage of every chance I can get to visit the best museums and archeological sites, explore under-the-radar neighborhoods, peek inside aristocratic palaces, see masterpieces inside churches, and eat my way across the city. But don’t take it from me — I’ve also tapped a couple of in-the-know locals who run some of Rome’s best tour companies for their recommendations. Read on for the 20 best things to do in Rome.

Visit archeological sites beyond the Colosseum.

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As an archeologist and CEO of the luxury tour company Roma Experience , Elisa Valeria Bove knows all the best archeological sites in and around Rome. Her personal favorite? The Appia Antica and Quintili’s Villa , which is found along the ancient Roman road. “Once called the 'road of fire', for me it is the road of wonders,” she says, calling it “the most romantic and imposing archeological site of Rome.” About a half-hour drive outside the center of Rome, these sites draw only a tiny fraction of the amount of people that crowd the Colosseum, so visiting them is a much more relaxed experience.

Embrace the coffee culture.

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“Every Italian has their neighborhood bar, and Retrobottega is mine,” says Annie Ojile, who runs the Vespa tour company Scooteroma and has been living in Rome for more than 15 years. “I like to have a cold coffee, especially in the summer months, so I’ve fallen in love with espresso tonic, which is espresso on ice with tonic water. It’s fabulous and refreshing.”

For an old-school Italian coffee bar, Bove recommends La Tazza d’Oro near the Pantheon, which opened in 1944 and still roasts its own beans. “In the summer you can have an amazing coffee granita with whipped cream — exactly what’s needed during a tour,” she says.

See artistic treasures at the world’s oldest museum.

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While the Vatican Museums may be more famous, the Capitoline Museums atop the Capitoline Hill are actually the oldest museum in the world. “Crossing each room, you have a clear idea of the grandiosity of the Roman civilization, from the monarchy, passing through the republic and imperial eras,” says Bove, calling it “the evolution of Rome in one museum — a trip within a trip.” Don’t miss the incredible panoramas of the Roman Forum.

Try the quartet of Roman pastas.

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The most classic Roman pastas are essentially variations of the same recipe. Cacio e pepe is made with just pecorino and pepper. Add guanciale (pork cheek) and you’ve got la gricia . Add an egg to la gricia and you’ve got carbonara . Substitute tomato sauce for the egg and you’ve got amatriciana . Try them all at a quintessentially Roman restaurant like Da Enzo al 29 , Checco Er Carettiere , or Salumeria Roscioli and decide which one is your favorite.

Picnic in the shadow of ancient aqueducts.

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On sunny days — especially weekends and public holidays — locals love to pack a picnic or pop into a deli to grab a sandwich and head out to one of the city’s green, leafy parks. While the most famous and centrally located park is the Villa Borghese, the Parco degli Acquedotti is a local favorite — and you can reach it on the metro. “A stroll here is stepping into the past, a perfect place for a picnic, to run or cycle,” says Bove. “The owners of this spot are the aqueducts: six of the 11 of the ancient city of Rome can be admired in this charming location.”

Shop for local souvenirs.

Courtesy of Booktique

Skip the ubiquitous shops selling cheap souvenirs made elsewhere and support small local businesses instead. “What I love about Booktique is that the owners’ history is with books and museum shops and they have a way to present all their treasures in a very interesting, cheeky, chic way,” says Ojile. “I buy every single gift there, and I’m not exaggerating at all. I also buy myself many gifts there — candles, hand soap, art for my house, canvas bags.” Booktique has two locations near the Pantheon and Piazza Navona.

Find all the Caravaggios in Rome.

Michelangelo Merisi (better known as Caravaggio) was one of the masters of Baroque painting. He was particularly known for using a technique called chiaroscuro , which is essentially the dramatic contrast between light and dark. There are about 25 of his works in Rome, many of which can be seen in museums such as Galleria Borghese , Palazzo Barberini , and the aforementioned Capitoline Museums, as well as churches like San Luigi dei Francesi, Santa Maria del Popolo, and Sant’Agostino. You could go on a treasure hunt looking for them all.

Stroll down Via Margutta, the artists’ street.

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Tucked away between the Spanish Steps and Piazza del Popolo, the charming, cobblestoned Via Margutta is known as the artists’ street because historically, it was a hub for artists, including Picasso, and there are still many art galleries there today. Bove calls it, “A peaceful place in the heart of Rome, just a few minutes from the crowded Spanish Steps, to get lost in the magnificent art galleries and discover the painters of Via Margutta.”

Via Margutta also has some fascinating cinematic history. Famed filmmaker Federico Fellini lived on this street (there’s a plaque on his building) and part of "Roman Holiday" starring Audrey Hepburn and Gregory Peck was filmed in the same apartment complex where Picasso lived. For a unique souvenir, stop by La Bottega del Marmoraro , where artisan Sandro Fiorentino still carves marble plaques by hand — many with witty phrases.

Visit a winery on the outskirts of the city.

Courtesy of Tenuta di Fiorano

Did you know there are vineyards and wineries on the edges of Rome? Bove’s favorite, Tenuta di Fiorano , is owned by Prince Alessandrojacopo Boncompagni Ludovisi. “It doesn’t happen every day that a prince welcomes you in his estate like an old friend,” she remarks. “I always admired the will he has to respect the history of his family and the territory where he decided to plant his vineyard, creating one of the excellences of Italy.”

Try unusual gelato flavors.

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There are plenty of excellent gelaterias all over the city, but to taste some unusual flavors, you have to go to Torcè . “They have these unusual flavors like black sesame. I tried their tomato gelato, which is excellent with mozzarella. Torcè has done phenomenal things,” says Bove. In addition to their award-winning Majani chocolate gelato, they make savory flavors like gorgonzola, carbonara, and cacio e pepe.

Go street art hunting.

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“Street art has an expiration date — you never know how long the piece is going to last — so it’s always fun to go find new pieces,” says Ojile. “I just love gliding over the cobblestones on my cherry red wheels and making random stops when I find new or revisit old pieces of street art.” Ojile recommends exploring neighborhoods like Testaccio, Ostiense, and Garbatella, where there’s a proliferation of murals and paste art. You can also see some cool street art in San Lorenzo and Pigneto, which are two of the city’s most up-and-coming neighborhoods.

See an ancient monument and modern art at the Ara Pacis.

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“The year after I moved to Rome, they started building the Ara Pacis and I will always remember that there was this big scandal because it was the first new piece of architecture to be built in the historic center since Mussolini’s era,” Ojile recalls. The sleek, white building was designed by Richard Meier to house the ancient Altar of Peace built for Emperor Augustus. Upstairs you can see the ancient altar, while the lower level shows rotating exhibitions dedicated to modern art, design, cinema, or photography. “Now I live five minutes from it and they have really stellar photography shows and exhibitions and I absolutely love it. I go to every show,” Ojile says.

Peek inside aristocratic palaces.

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Want to see how Roman nobility lived? A handful of aristocratic palaces have been opened up as museums, allowing visitors to glimpse at their incredible art collections and opulent décor. Palazzo Colonna , which was a filming location for "Roman Holiday," is open on Friday and Saturday mornings. Palazzo Doria Pamphilj , meanwhile, has a gorgeous hall of mirrors inspired by the one at Versailles. Villa Farnesina in Trastevere contains breathtaking frescoes by Raphael.

Have an aperitivo at a rooftop bar.

At the end of the day, there are few experiences as magical as sipping a drink while watching the sunset over the city’s terracotta rooftops. Luckily Rome has plenty of rooftop bars to choose from. Bove’s pick is Otivm Roof Bar overlooking the Capitoline Hill, while Ojile raves about Terrazza Flores above El Porteño, a chic Argentinian restaurant. “This is where you’ll find me this summer soaking in the gorgeous views and sipping on my Porteño cocktail,” she says.

Try one of the city’s new wave of pizzerias.

Courtesy of Seu Pizza Illuminati

Pizza never went out of style, but lately there are more and more pizzerias upping the ante with creative offerings and top-notch quality. Rome has 10 pizzerias ranked among the best in Italy by the judges at Top 50 Pizza. Among the top are Seu Pizza Illuminati in Trastevere, which serves gourmet Neapolitan-style pizza by Pier Daniele Seu; 180 Grammi in the up-and-coming neighborhood of Centocelle, where pizzaiolo Jacopo Mercuro makes thin-crust Roman pizza with all kinds of creative toppings; and Sbanco , where the dough is somewhere in between Neapolitan and Roman style and the fritti (fried appetizers) are divine.

Sip cutting-edge cocktails at Drink Kong.

Courtesy of Drink Kong

For Ojile, a perfect night out starts with dinner in Monti at a restaurant like Rocco or La Taverna dei Fori Imperiali and ends at Drink Kong , which is ranked as one of the world’s 50 best bars. “It’s like an ‘80s dreamland with amazing cocktails,” she notes. The aesthetic is inspired by Japanese film noir and the wildly creative drinks are dreamt up by Irish-Italian bartender Patrick Pistolesi, who has been a fixture on the city’s nightlife scene for decades.

Book a stay at a luxury hotel.

Courtesy of Bulgari Hotel Roma

Rome is having a hospitality renaissance , with one luxe five-star hotel opening after the next. Some of the buzziest recent openings include It List hotel the Six Senses Rome , a sleek, modern hotel for wellness and sustainability-minded travelers; the Bulgari Hotel Rome , known for its gorgeous design and restaurant by Michelin-starred chef Niko Romito; the Rome Edition , which occupies a Rationalist building near Via Veneto and has a restaurant by the team behind cult-favorite spot Pianostrada (also on the It List); and Anantara Palazzo Naiadi , which has a cool rooftop restaurant and a gourmet restaurant on the ground floor.

Venture out to EUR.

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The neighborhood known as EUR on the southern edge of Rome is a must-see destination for fans of 1930s and ‘40s Rationalist architecture. Mussolini built the neighborhood for the Esposizione Universale Romana of 1942, which never took place because of the Second World War. The most alluring building, architecturally speaking, is the Palazzo della Civiltà Italiana (better known as the Colosseo Quadrato, or Square Colosseum), which now houses Fendi’s headquarters. EUR is also home to an amusement park called Luneur Park , the Nuvola Convention Center , and a location of Torcè.

See the Cinecittà Film Studios.

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Rome was once known as “Hollywood on the Tiber” because so many movies were filmed here. While some were filmed on location, many were shot at Cinecittà Studios , which is still an active filming studio. Part of it is open to visitors, including several exhibitions dedicated to film history (there’s one all about Fellini). You can visit the exhibitions on your own or sign up for a guided tour to learn more about the studio’s history and see the set of HBO’s Rome .

Sample wine at an enoteca.

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An enoteca is essentially just a wine bar, but they can range from simple and spartan to classy, elegant affairs. They usually have a wide selection of bottles and often a good variety of wines by the glass. Some just have small bites like meat and cheese boards, while others have full menus. For the best enoteca in Rome, Bove recommends Achilli al Parlamento , saying they have “an incredible selection of wine labels at cost price. If you are a lover of great wines, you can’t skip this place.”

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101 Fantastic Things To Do In Rome

There are so many things to do in Rome that a lifetime would barely be enough to explore it all. We drew the most complete and detailed Rome bucket list you can find online including several sections to help you navigate and choose what type of trip you want to plan.

So we have the things to do for first-time visitors, what to see in Rome if it’s not your first trip, secret spots to discover, the best churches often lesser-known and also what to do in Rome if you are a food lover.

This is meant to be an exhaustive list of Rome’s highlights that we continually update, but if you are spending only three days in Rome , you will need to narrow down your options depending on the area you want to visit, your preferences, whether you like art, history or go on a foodie jaunt.

Of course, if you can stay longer, all the better. We have included so many places to visit that even if you have a week in Rome , you will never get bored and run out of things to do. Our list includes something for everybody, whether it’s your first trip to Rome, or second, or your fifth. Enjoy the ride and start planning!

Table of Contents

Unmissable things to do in Rome for first-time visitors

Impossible not to include it in your Italy itinerary , especially if it’s your first time in the country, Rome has something for everyone. Whether you are into ancient history, Renaissance aesthetics, contemporary art, or even industrial archaeology, rest assured that in Rome, you will have a great time.

See the Colosseum, one of the first places to visit in Rome

An iconic symbol of the city, no first trip to Rome is complete without a stop at the Colosseum . Flavium Amphitheatre was one of the main places where Romans spent their leisure time. Shows where gladiators fought with other gladiators or wild animals were some of the favorites in ancient Rome.

Today you can visit the Colosseum by yourself or, if you want to access also the arena and the dungeons, you can do so only by booking a private tour .

Walk around the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill, one of the must-see places in Rome

With the same ticket to the Colosseum valid for two days, you can also access the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill. This is the heart of the ancient city of Rome. You will see where public life took place, important temples, markets, emperors’ villas, and the altar where Julius Ceasar was cremated.

The Forum is very big and there are many things to see, so if you want to visit the most important places, book a tour to be sure you don’t skip any.

Discover the Domus Aurea

The urban villa was built by Emperor Nero after the fire that devastated Rome in 64 AD and was destroyed after Nero’s death to give back the land to the Roman people. After years of digging and renovation work, today we can visit the surviving areas, which reveal the opulence and luxury Nero lived with.

With gardens, pavilions for feasts and relaxation, woods, vineyards, and a little lake, the villa occupied a huge part of today’s city center, including the Palatine Hill, part of the Esquilino Hill, and where now is the Colosseum.

Walk along the Imperial Fora

Started by Julius Caesar in 46 BC, it was the center of political life. It was built in about 150 years and shows the fora of several emperors including Augustus and Trajan, as well as several pagan Roman temples.

This is one of those places where you will almost certainly end up walking past even if you are staying for only one day in Rome as it’s the long road that goes from Piazza Venezia to the Colosseum.

Check out the best hotels near the Colosseum to start bright and early in the morning!

The Baths of Caracalla among the best things to see in Rome

The Caracalla Baths are one of the most beautiful tourist attractions in Rome. A large complex of ancient thermal baths, you can see the mosaic floor, the structure where the different areas were organized as well as the original statues and decorations. In summer, the Baths of Caracalla are used for opera shows.

Visit the Circus Maximus

With a size of 600 mt in length and 140 mt wide, the Circus Maximus was the largest building devoted to public shows. Here they used to run competitions with the biga chariots and now it’s an archaeological area possible to visit. It’s also often used for concerts (always for New Year’s Eve) and cultural events like Rome’s birthday on April 21st. Check out the official website for more info.

St. Peter’s Basilica one of the most popular Rome tourist attractions

Built on the site of Caligula’s Circus, the basilica we see today is not the original, which was much bigger. Later expanded by Nero, the ancient Roman circus is where Saint Peter was martyred. Today you can see his tomb by booking your entrance to the necropolis underneath the church.

Packed with amazing artwork, some of the most important things to see inside St. Peter’s Basilica are Michelangelo’s statue La Pietà, the dome (cupola) and the Baroque-style St. Peter’s Baldachin.

Visit the Vatican Museums

Among the unmissable things to see in Rome are the Vatican Museums. A large gallery displaying some seven centuries of artwork donated by world leaders or commissioned by the popes, some of the most important parts are the Sistine Chapel, Raphael’s Rooms, the Gallery of the Tapestries, of the Maps, and of the Candelabra.

TIP: Want to make the most out of your visit and avoid the crowds? Check out some of the best tours to the Vatican Museums: Pristine Sistine Early Entrance and Night Tour with Sistine Chapel .

Explore more of the Vatican City

To make your first trip to Rome complete, do devote at least one day to the Vatican City . Here there are many things to see, and if you want to explore it all, one day is not enough. However, you will still need to start somewhere. If you have more time than just visiting St. Peter’s Square and Basilica and the Vatican Museums, there are so many more places to see in the Vatican . To delve deeper, you can explore the Vatican Gardens and the Roman cemetery below the Basilica .

TIP: To skip the lines in the Vatican’s attractions such as St. Peter’s Basilica and the Vatican Museums, the only way is to book a private Vatican tour .

Climb the Spanish Steps, one of the most famous Rome attractions

Taken as a bench to sit, eat and drink by many, the Spanish Steps is actually an important historical Roman landmark and one of the top Rome attractions.

Built between 1723 and 1726 from a project by Roman architect Francesco De Sanctis, they lead to the Trinità dei Monti church on top of the stairs. While on the bottom, Piazza di Spagna, you can see the beautiful Barcaccia fountain by Pietro Bernini (Gian Lorenzo’s father), and a huge array of exclusive and expensive boutique stores.

Visit the Pantheon, one of the first places to visit in Rome

Temple devoted to all gods, the Pantheon is a true masterpiece of ancient architecture impossible not to include in your Rome bucket list.

Founded by Marco Vipsanio Agrippa in 27 BC, it was rebuilt between 120 and 124 AD during the rule of Emperor Augustus after a fire damaged the original construction. Its famous cupola, with a hole in the middle to allow the light in, is still now one of the biggest in the world.

Piazza Navona, one of the top Rome tourist attractions

One of the most famous squares and Rome highlights, Piazza Navona has the elliptical shape of the Domitian Stadium on top of which it was built. In the middle is one of the most beautiful fountains in Rome, the Four Rivers Fountain by architect Gian Lorenzo Bernini, standing in front of Sant’Agnese in Agone church by Francesco Borromini.

Campo de’ Fiori, one of the main things to do in Rome

Home to a daily morning market, Piazza Campo de’ Fiori is one of the most famous Rome tourist attractions popular day and night. In the middle of the square is the tall statue of Giordano Bruno, the Dominican friar burnt at the stake early 17th century. All around the piazza are bars, restaurants, bakeries, and shops.

Largo Argentina

This is where Julius Ceasar was killed and now there is one of Rome’s largest and most famous cat colonies. Visit this ancient sacred area and explore one of the most underestimated tourist attractions in Rome. This is such as busy and central hub that whether you are staying 2 days in Rome or one week , chances are you are going to visit or even only walk across Largo Argentina more than once.

Discover the Hadrian Mausoleum

Built as the funerary mausoleum of emperor Hadrian, Castel Sant’Angelo has served several purposes throughout the centuries. From residence to papal stronghold to prison, it’s one of those Rome attractions that are impossible to miss.

Explore the Jewish Quarter

A stone’s throw from Largo Argentina is the Jewish Quarter. While you will probably end up here for its many great restaurants, it’s also worth wandering around its alleys, seeing the Turtle Fountain and the archaeological site of the Portico di Ottavia , a porch built under the rule of Augustus and devoted to his sister Ottavia.

Definitely one of the top things to do in Rome, whether it’s summer or winter, is to enjoy an artisan gelato. Romans have become very demanding when it comes to gelato, and my suggestion is to prefer all-natural, authentic artisan gelaterias. How to tell them apart from fake, low-quality products? Read everything in my complete guide to the best gelato in Rome .

Wander around Trastevere, one of the places to see in Rome for food and trendy nightlife

One of the most famous Rome neighborhoods among tourists, gentrified Trastevere was once the place of the working class. Narrow alleys, quaint shops and restaurants (some traditional many touristy), lovely piazzas. Here, don’t miss Santa Maria in Trastevere Basilica, Santa Cecilia Basilica and Villa Farnesina.

Santa Maria in Trastevere Basilica

Possibly the most famous basilica in the Trastevere neighborhood, Santa Maria in Trastevere is thought to be the oldest official Catholic church in Rome, and for sure the first one officially devoted to the Holy Mary. On its outside facade, you can admire beautiful mosaics.

Santa Cecilia in Trastevere Basilica

This is not just a church. Like many other places to see in Rome, the undergrounds of Santa Cecilia in Trastevere Basilica hide another world. Once you visit the modern church, go down to see the gorgeous crypt and down again to visit an ancient Roman domus and insula.

Visit the Tiber Island, what to do in Rome for history and food

An ancient man-made island in the middle of the Tiber river in Rome city center, the ship-shaped Isola Tiberina is one of the top places to visit in Rome for first-timers. You can get to the Tiber island on foot from either Trastevere or the Jewish Ghetto. Today is home to the San Bartolomeo church, the 16th-century hospital Fatebenefratelli and several bars and restaurants. In summer, it becomes the island of the cinema, a popular hangout to watch movies outdoors.

Walk across Rome’s oldest bridge

What to do in Rome if, like me, stepping over ancient history excites you. Ponte Fabricio bridge connects the Jewish Ghetto right from in front of Rome’s synagogue to the Tiber island. Built in 62 BC by street keeper Lucius Fabricius, it’s Rome’s oldest operative bridge that kept its original structure.

Explore Rome’s history at the Capitoline Museums

This is Rome’s main museum, where you will discover the history of the city, how it was founded, both myth and reality. Displaying a rich collection of artwork from ancient Roman times, there is also a fascinating section on Etruscan art and daily life.

Throw a coin in the Trevi Fountain

Hands-off the most impressive among Rome’s many fountains, this Baroque masterpiece stands in all its huge glory and has been the setting of movies, videos, countless pictures and also polemics when people just can’t resist and take a dip in its waters. Do you want to be sure to come back to Rome? Throw a coin backward in the Trevi Fountain and you will.

Take a picture of Piazza Venezia and Vittoriano Complex

The Vittoriano Complex is the national monument in Piazza Venezia named after the first king of unified Italy, Vittorio Emanuele II. It hosts the permanent exhibition devoted to the Italian Risorgimento , a term indicating the series of wars, battles, intrigues, and clashes that ended with the unification of the country under one rule, Piedmont’s Savoia royal dynasty.

Also called “Homeland Altar”, it was built between 1885 and 1911 and since 1923 it hosts the body of the “Unknown Soldier”. Today they often organize several exhibitions on different topics, be it social, cultural, or historic.

Test yourself at the Mouth of Truth

This is a big sculpture with a man’s face located in the courtyard of Santa Maria in Cosmedin church. Probably an ancient manhole, it became one of the top things to do in Rome because of the movie Roman Holiday starring Audrey Hepburn and Gregory Peck and the legend according to which the mouth would bite the hand of those who don’t speak the truth.

Saint John Lateran Basilica

The most important among the papal basilicas, Saint John in Lateran is one of the top places to see in Rome. The first official Catholic, it’s Rome’s cathedral and where the pope exerts his duties as the city’s bishop. Located in the Caelian Hill on the land of the Lateran Roman family, it was confiscated by Nero because of a conspiracy against him. Of stunning beauty and rich in artwork, it’s one of Rome points of interest whether you are religious or not.

Go underground in San Clemente Basilica

One of the best places to visit in Rome to travel through the historical layers of the city. San Clemente Basilica, near the Colosseum, includes a medieval church on modern street level, an early-Christian basilica underneath, and a Mithraic temple and school as well as the Roman mint in the lowest underground level.

Take a peek through the keyhole of Knights of Malta headquarters

This is one of the most famous pictures of Rome. Watching from the keyhole of the Knights of Malta headquarters on the Aventine Hill is one of the fun things to do in Rome. It used to be a hidden gem, but now it’s very popular and you will likely find a bit of a queue. Nevertheless, the view is worth the wait.

Explore the Aventine Hill

Romantic and incredibly rich in history, Aventine Hill is a treasure trove of places to visit in Rome. The early-Christian Santa Sabina Basilica, the old Santa Prisca Basilica with a Mithra temple in its underground, and the orange-scented Parco Savello, better known as the Garden of the Oranges, are all sights that will keep you busy for a good morning or even the whole day.

Marvel at three Caravaggio paintings at San Luigi dei Francesi

This church is located between Piazza Navona and the Pantheon and it’s worth visiting even only for the being home to three of the Caravaggio paintings in Rome : The Calling of St Matthew (on the left wall), The Inspiration of Saint Matthew (above the altar), and The Martyrdom of Saint Matthew (on the right wall).

Apart from Saint Louis of the French church, you can find some of his most famous masterpieces in Palazzo Barberini, Galleria Borghese, Galleria Doria Pamphilj, Sant’Agostino Basilica, and the beautiful Santa Maria del Popolo Basilica.

Enjoy the view from the Janiculum Hill

The Janiculum Hill is a favorite spot for a scenic walk surrounded by nature and art. A perfect place to take a break from the city traffic, here you can visit the Aqua Paola Fountain, San Pietro in Mntorio church and see the monument devoted to Garibaldi, active military leader during the battles that brought the Italian unification.

Palazzo Quirinale, what to visit in Rome to combine art and institutions

In the Palace of the President of the Italian Republic, it’s possible to visit the Quirinale palace only by booking at least five days in advance through the official website . Former papal residence, it’s located in the Quirinale Hill and enshrines a huge wealth of artwork.

Take a stroll in Villa Borghese Park

One of the largest and possibly the most famous among Rome’s urban parks, the gorgeous Villa Borghese was the residence of the powerful Borghese family. A green oasis in the city center, it’s packed with attractions and landmarks to visit such as the Galleria Borghese museum (not free entrance), the Lake Garden, several temples, and the beautiful Orangery area. You can also book a Villa Borghese bike tour to visit more of this huge park.

TIP: Make the most of your visit to the park with an expert tour to the Borghese Gallery to view the masterpieces of artists like Caravaggio, Bernini, Raffaello and Canova.

Just like gelato, enjoying a great pizza is one of the best things to do in Rome. By the slice, by the pie, as street food or comfortably sitting for dinner. Napoli-style or Roman pinsa, if you are looking for pizza in Rome you can find just about everything.

Take a food tour

The best way to explore Roman cuisine, its traditional dishes and try great restaurants, especially if it’s your first time in the city, it’s with a Rome food tour , such as Taste of Testaccio or Twilight Trastevere with Eating Europe. There are so many food tours of Rome that you will be spoilt for choice.

We recently took a fantastic food tour in Testaccio with Devour Tours and we had plenty of tastings from breakfast all the way to lunch stopping at Mercato Testaccio for scrumptious nibbles.

Try the best historic restaurants

If you are into tradition, some of the top historic restaurants to try in Rome are by all means Armando Al Pantheon , close to the Pantheon, and Felice a Testaccio , both famous for their tonnarelli cacio e pepe pasta and other traditional Roman dishes . Some other names? Checchino dal 1887 and Cesare al Casaletto .

Learn to make pasta and pizza

We all love Rome food, but what if we want to make pasta and pizza for our friends and family back home? Easy, take one of the many pasta-making or pizza-making food tours and you will learn the basics for creating your own delicious dishes.

There are many cooking classes in Rome where you can learn how to make some of the most famous Roman and Italian dishes for your friends and family back home. We recently took a fantastic pasta-making class with Devour Tours and learned to make egg-based fettuccine and a hearty amatriciana sauce from scratch.

Go for a coffee Italian-style

So you are in Italy and want a coffee . Keep in mind that if you simply ask for a coffee ( un caffè, per favore! ), they will deliver a short espresso shot, because this is what Italians expect.

If you ask for a “long coffee” ( un caffè lungo ), you will have the same single espresso with a bit more water in it. If you want the huge cup American style you should just order that, an American coffee ( un caffè americano ), so the barista will understand.

A tip? Have on the counter to pay the basic fee. If you grab a table they can charge whatever is their fee.

Go for an aperitif

Aperitif in Rome is a pre-dinner meal, but since the formula is often 10/15 euro for a drink and unlimited buffet starting from 6.30 pm until around 8 pm, you can totally take it for an early dinner.

Go for a street food tour

Pizza by the slice, supplì, cured meat, gelato, or the famous Trapizzino . Try some of Rome’s street food delicacies in its famous central neighborhoods such as the Jewish Ghetto, Campo de’ Fiori, or Prati area. The best way to do that? With a street food tour led by a local expert , of course.

Enjoy Rome city center by segway…

Explore the city center by segway to see as much as you can without getting tired on board of your segway. I’ve been seeing groups of segway always more often in Rome. If you are short on time and still don’t want to miss the main landmarks, this is a great and eco-friendly way to do it. Click here for more info and the price .

…Or by electric bike

Comfortable, eco-friendly, and time-efficient, you can either rent an electric bike to tour around the top things to see in Rome by yourself or book one of the many tours with a local guide.

Some of the best electric bike tours? An e-bike tour around Rome’s tourist attractions or a tour by night around the best places to see in Rome at twilight. If you are into more hidden gems and less touristy areas, book a fascinating bike tour of the ancient Appian Way with its aqueducts and catacombs.

What to do in Rome if you have already seen the most famous landmarks

Discover ancient roman aqueducts.

The ancient aqueducts are possibly the architectural and engineering feat Rome is most famous for . While many have been destroyed by the vandals and during the several sacks of Rome, we can still see and appreciate great vestiges from these important pipelines.

Some of the best places to see the ruins of ancient aqueducts are Parco degli Acquedotti in the Appian Way south of Rome and Porta Maggiore in the Esquilino neighborhood where many of these pipelines meet.

The ruins of the important Aqua Virgo aqueduct that supplies water to the Trevi Fountain can be seen in a few places around the fountain. These include Vicus Caprarius where is the cistern and the undergrounds of La Rinascente shopping mall in Via del Tritone where multimedia installations explain everything about the ruins and the neighborhood.

Villa Farnesina with Raphael’s frescoes

If you are still wondering what to do in Rome, located in Trastevere is Villa Farnesina, a historical villa today seat of the prestigious Accademia Nazionale dei Lincei. A former noble residence, you can visit Villa Farnesina for the wonderful frescoes by great Italian artists, the most famous of which is Raphael. Check out their website for more info.

Go on a foodie adventure

If you have already tried Romand traditional dishes and want something lighter to your digestive system without giving up on taste, go on a foodie adventure. Rome is a fantastic city for foodies, with new restaurants springing up literally every day. Around the city, you will find anything you are looking for, no matter what are your preferences or dietary needs.

Are you vegan? Rome offers a great choice of wonderful vegan and vegetarian restaurants. Do you want to try traditional dishes prepared with a contemporary twist? Do you like the casual atmosphere of a bistro? Rome has something for every palate.

St. Paul Outside the Walls

Located in the Garbatella neighborhood close to Ostiense, the huge St. Paul Outside the Walls Basilica gets fewer visitors than it would deserve. Imposing both outside and inside, here is kept the tomb of Saint Paul. In the underground, you can visit a great Roman archaeological site from the oldest complex dating back to the 5th century.

Centrale Montemartini

This is one of the best things to do in Rome if you have already visited the main museums and are looking for more offbeat attractions. The former main power plant in the city, Centrale Montemartini in the Ostiense neighborhood has been turned into a fascinating museum where the machinery that was used to produce electricity stands side by side with ancient Roman statues, mosaics, sarcophagi, and tools.

Museo Nazionale Romano

After the Musei Capitolini, this is the most important museum and one of the best places to visit in Rome to dig deep into its imperial times, art, and history. Located near Termini Station in the Diocletian Baths, it displays a huge collection of objects, tools, and artwork from Ancient Rome.

Palazzo-Galleria Doria Pamphilj, one of the best places to see in Rome to soak in centuries of art

The gorgeous residence of the Doria Pamphilj noble family is a true treasure trove of artwork, majestic beauty, and history of the Roman aristocracy. Conveniently located in Via del Corso, it’s easy to reach and one of the best things to do in Rome to soak in art, luxury, and history.

Rome’s Rose Garden (Roseto Comunale)

Open only for a couple of months a year in Spring, the Roseto Comunale is located between the Circus Maximus and the foot of the Aventine Hill. When it’s in its full blossoming, with its thousands of rose species it makes for a truly heady and scented walk near Rome city center.

See an optical illusion of St. Peter’s dome

It only happens in Via Piccolomini, off Via Aurelia Antica. As soon as you enter, you will find a giant St. Peter’s dome right in front of you. Keep walking and you will notice that the closer you get, the smaller the dome will become.

Go to the Opera

At Rome’s Teatro dell’Opera you can enjoy operas and ballets from the most famous musicians, such as Mozart, Giuseppe Verdi, Giacomo Puccini, Tchaikovsky, Georges Bizet, and more. Check out their official website for more info on shows and the current season.

Quartiere Coppedè

One of the hidden gems in Rome is the quirky Quartiere Coppedè in the Trieste neighborhood. This Liberty-style quarter was designed by visionary Gino Coppedè and shows clear influences from Roman and Greek mythology, shapes of animals, monsters, and fairy tales. You won’t even feel you are in Rome.

Visit the wonderful Sant’Agnese Fuori le Mura complex

Not far from Quartiere Coppedè, in the elegant Nomentano neighborhood is a beautiful religious and historical landmark from the 4th century that shows that the art and history in Rome are not limited to inside the Aurelian Walls.

The complex of Sant’Agnese Fuori Le Mura (outside the walls) is worth your time out of the historic center because it includes early-Christian catacombs, the ruins of an ancient Basilica, a more modern church, and the Mausoleum of Santa Costanza, the daughter of emperor Constantine the Great, with the ceiling coated with wonderful mosaics.

John Keats’ House

Located in Piazza di Spagna on the right corner of the Spanish Steps, here is where English poet John Keats spent his last months before dying of tuberculosis at the age of 25. Today his house is a museum that displays sculptures, paintings, objects, and manuscripts of important English intellectuals like Keats, Shelley, and Lord Byron.

Protestant Cemetery

A collection of beautiful statues, Rome’s Non-Catholic Cemetery in the Testaccio area hosts the tombs of many notables like Italian politician and philosopher Antonio Gramsci, Italian writer Andrea Camilleri, and English poet John Keats among others.

Explore Rome underground

One of the most fascinating things to do in Rome is to explore the many layers of the city. Underneath modern churches, you can find early-Christian basilicas, ancient Roman houses, and Mithra temples. Underneath Piazza Navona, you can visit the ruins of Domitian Stadium. Thankfully there are many Rome underground guided tours that show you and explain these hidden sites.

Do a catacombs tour, one of the best things to do in Rome for history lovers

One of the best things to do in Rome if you are after a history and cultural holiday is a catacombs tour. There are so many catacombs in different parts of the city that it’s difficult to visit them all. Some of the most famous are the ones in the ancient Appian Way St. Callixtus and St. Domitilla, the ones in Villa Ada park of Priscilla, and the ones of St. Sebastian. Check out Take Walks underground tour to Rome’s catacombs and crypts .

Discover the Trajan’s Markets

Unlike the name might suggest, Trajan’s Markets were probably not markets as we intend them today. This complex of buildings was adjacent to the Roman Forum and especially linked to the Trajan Forum.

It consisted of different areas, some areas where political “forum” activities took place, others where they managed administrative duties. Located in Via Quattro Novembre, today you can visit the archaeological area, the Museum of the Imperial Fora, and always different temporary exhibitions.

Santa Maria della Scala ancient pharmacy

Located in the trendy and very touristy Trastevere neighborhood is a beautiful hidden gem. The ancient pharmacy of Santa Maria della Scala was founded in the 16th century. Here, the Discalced Carmelite friars create potions, oils, and remedies until 1954. Today it’s open to the public but you need to book.

Visit Rome food markets

There are so many food markets in Rome that during your sightseeing you are most likely to stumble on one or more of them. Some of my favorites? Mercato Testaccio, Mercato Trionfale in Via Andrea Doria, the daily market in Campo de’ Fiori, even though quite touristy, and the smaller farmers’ market in Piazza San Cosimato in Trastevere.

Explore Rome’s street art

There are several neighborhoods spruced up and made colorful by local and international street artists. Some of these are Ostiense , Quadraro and Tor Marancia. Also look for Popstairs, a project by Roman street artist Diavù who painted the face of famous Italian and European actresses on stairwells around Rome. Here is something cool and free to do in Rome .

Visit the Botanic Garden

A magical place between Trastevere and Janiculum Hill, the Botanic Garden is managed by La Sapienza university. Hosting plants from all over the world and areas such as the Japanese garden, the tropical greenhouse and the Mediterranean wood, it’s one of the most fascinating things to see in Rome.

Villa Doria Pamphilj

The beautiful summer residence of the Pamphilj family, here you can walk, do jogging, use the gym equipment to do some exercise, rent a bike, take your kids to the playground, and have a nice casual lunch in the local bistro.

They often organize cultural events such as the Oriental Festival, the Yoga Festival and more. This is among the Rome activities your kids will love also because there is the lovely Vivi Bistrot where you can order a picnic and spend a whole day relaxing, jogging, and having fun.

Enter a movie set in Cinecittà

Many movies have been shot in Cinecittà, south Rome, and not only Italian ones. I even visited the set of Martin Scorsese’s Gangs of New York. Obviously, in Cinecittà cinema studios, you will see documents, pictures, objects and memorabilia related mainly to Italian movie production with big names like Fellini, Zeffirelli, Luchino Visconti and actors like Totò and Claudia Cardinale. But also other international names, especially actors who have worked here like Elizabeth Taylor, Richard Burton. Check the official website to know how to visit.

Take a day trip

There are many day trips you can take from Rome . Starting from the medieval towns of Viterbo and Bracciano to the Castelli Romani, in towns like Castel Gandolfo and Rocca di Papa, you can either go by public transport or book a guided tour.

Not to miss if you have the time is a day in Tivoli , home to two UNESCO sites, the Villa of Hadrian and the Villa d’Este.

A little farther but still possible to do in one day is visit Terni and its beautiful Cascate delle Marmore waterfalls.

If you are going around to explore the surroundings, here are some cool road trip games for couples .

Explore Rome’s most international neighborhood

Walking around the Esquilino area next to Termini station you will feel anywhere but Rome. From the Esquilino market selling anything international, from food to clothes, to international restaurants and fast foods to shops displaying products from literally every corner of the planet, here you can find pretty much anything. Afghan jewelry, Chinese tea sets, and blends, Caribbean foods, Indian/Pakistani restaurants. You name it, you will find it.

See the biggest park of Ancient Rome

Unfortunately today you can only see a small piece because without prior booking a private tour because it’s private property, but Horti Sallustiani (Piazza Sallustio 21) was the largest park of ancient Rome. Once a lush garden populated by fountains, thermal baths and temples devoted to nymphs, Horti Sallustiani was a favorite place for Roman leaders such as Julius Ceasar and Vespasian and it’s where emperor Nerva died.

Go to the beach

This is probably best in summer, but also Spring is a nice season for a walk on the beach. You will get to the coast better if you rent a car but some are possible to reach also with public transport, either train or coach. Some of the favorite beaches near Rome? Fregene, Ostia Lido, Fiumicino, Ladispoli, Torvaianica and, a bit further away, Circeo, Sperlonga, Sabaudia and Anzio.

See the Roman town of Ostia Antica

Very easy to reach with a train ride from Ostiense/Porta San Paolo and with a single Atac ticket of 1.50 euro, Ostia Antica is a great sight to include in your Rome sightseeing. An important Roman city for trades and commerce, several diggings have been done recently that brought about new discoveries, including the fact that the city was much bigger even than the famous Pompeii.

Quirky and more unusual things to see in Rome

One of the truly unusual places to see in Rome, the magic door in Piazza Vittorio bears a mysterious past. Also called Porta Alchemica, “Alchemical Door,” it was built in the 17th century by a nobleman who got close to the world of alchemy and science. According to the legend, the mysterious inscriptions decorating the door are the formula to turn a plant into gold. This is definitely what to see in Rome if you are into esoteric history and culture.

Capuchins’ Crypt

The Capuchin Friars’ Crypt displays the bones of some 4,000 friars who died between 1528 and 1870 and is located in the undergrounds of Santa Maria della Concezione church in Via Veneto.

Along with bones, you can also see some mummified friars as well as the skeletons of three nephews of Pope Urbano VIII and Princess Barberini who died very young.

Casina delle Civette (House of the Owls) in Villa Torlonia

Casina delle Civette , “House of the Owls,” earned its moniker for the presence of two owls on the glass window at the entrance and the obsessive recurring of owl-themed decorations. Worth visiting both inside and outside.

Explore more of Villa Torlonia Park

The Roman residence of Fascist leader Benito Mussolini, Villa Torlonia is a relatively small but lovely park in the Nomentano area. You can have a nice walk and visit the Casino Nobile , where Mussolini lived and where he built his bunker for extra security, that today you can visit with a guided tour. Enter the Casino Nobile mansion also for its antiques and neo-classic and contemporary artwork.

Play and learn at the Museum of Light

The games of lights and shades, colorful reflections, optical illusions, and playful mirrors and shadows of the Museum of Light are only some of the things to do in Rome whether you are traveling with your family or in a group of friends.

Located in the city center next to Piazza Venezia, it’s easy to reach and fantastic to keep the whole family entertained for a couple of hours.

Try Rome’s foreign restaurants

Rome offers also a great choice of foreign restaurants. Chinese, Indian, Ethiopian, Japanese, Lebanese , French, Vietnamese, or Persian if you want to give Roman food a break, you can explore the new flavors found aplenty in the city.

Visit MACRO Museum

Located in Via Nizza in the Salario quarter, MACRO is Rome’s museum of contemporary art. Exhibitions, workshops, seminars and events of all kinds are organized here, so if you are a fan of contemporary artistic expressions, this is one of the Rome activities you will love.

Walk along the beautiful Galleria Sciarra

This is one of the unique places to visit in Rome’s city center. A Liberty-style covered gallery near the Trevi Fountain (entrance through Via Marco Minghetti) built at the end of the 19th century. Decorated with a main woman-focused theme, this is a private courtyard but open to the public during office hours.

See the relics of Rome’s industrial archaeology

Take a stroll around the Ostiense neighborhood and discover the relics of Rome’s industrial archaeology starting from the huge gasometer, carrying on to places like the old warehouse and the former main power plant in Centrale Montemartini museum.

See the Fascist Lots in the traditional Garbatella neighborhood

Garbatella is next to Ostiense and was created during the Fascist rule. Inspired by the English urban planning idea of “garden cities” of Ebenezer Howard as a response to the need for sprawling cities for a better quality of life, take a walk around Garbatella Lots and explore a truly traditional Roman neighborhood.

Visit the square Colosseum

For sure one of the unique things to do in Rome is a visit to the Palace of Italian Civilisation, called by the locals “square Colosseum” ( Colosseo quadrato ) for its resemblance to the more famous landmark and its square shape. Located in the modern EUR neighborhood, it was inaugurated in 1940 under Mussolini’s rule. Managed by the Fendi family, its ground floor is now devoted to a permanent exhibition showing the excellence of Italian craftsmanship and creativity.

Get your sweetness overload at a cat colony

There are several cat sanctuaries in Rome, where our furry friends live and are taken care of. The largest is the one at the monumental cemetery of the Verano, but probably the easiest to reach are the one at Largo Argentina and the one living around the Pyramid in the Testaccio neighborhood . The beautiful cats are used to people and don’t mind posing for a nice photo.

See Rubens’ powered painting

The large painting by Flemish artist Rubens is located on the main altar of Chiesa Nuova Church (Piazza della Chiesa Nuova 1) and features a Madonna that disappears once a week. This is a motor-powered painting and if you want to see the Virgin Mary disappearing, you need to go on Saturday when the priest activates the device at the end of the afternoon function.

Be amazed at the anamorphoses of Trinità dei Monti

One of the unique places to visit in Rome is inside Trinità dei Monti church on top of the Spanish Steps. Along a corridor of the convent, the walls are decorated with anamorphic frescoes that change depending on your position. So the more you walk, the more images you will see. It’s open to the public but visits must be booked. Check their website for more info.

Visit the Museum of the Souls in Purgatory, one of the unusual things to see in Rome

In the sacristy of the Gothic-style Sacro Cuore del Suffragio church near Piazza Cavour (Lungotevere Prati 12) is a one-of-a-kind museum. One of the unusual things to do in Rome, here on display is a collection of documents and evidence that would prove the existence of Purgatory and signs from the souls of the deceased.

Visit the dolls’ hospital, one of the unique things to do in Rome

The owner of this quirky and slightly creepy workshop is quite grumpy and unless you have a doll to treat, you can’t enter. This is a true dolls’ hospital and even though you can only view it from the outside, its very central location in Via Ripetta makes it very easy to visit.

Visit San Pietro in Vincoli

Much less visited than many other famous churches, San Pietro in Vincoli Basilica is located in its namesake piazza in the Monti neighborhood. Alongside the chains that held Saint Peter prisoner in Rome and Jerusalem, here you can also see the beautiful Moses sculpture by Michelangelo.

Explore Santa Maria Maggiore Basilica

This important church is one of the four papal basilicas. Located in the Esquilino neighborhood, it’s the only one that kept its early-Christian structure. It’s decorated with beautiful mosaics and you can also visit the undergrounds (booking required, more info on the Vatican website ).

TIP: To know more about this important worship place in Rome, you can book a full tour of Santa Maria Maggiore Basilica .

Admire the mosaics of Santa Prassede Basilica

The church of Santa Prassede is located in the Esquilino neighborhood. As history goes, St. Pudenziana was martyred together with her sister St. Prassede because they were giving a Christian burial to the martyrs in the land of their father, a Roman senator. The apse of this church is decorated with beautiful mosaics .

Duck into Santa Pudenziana Basilica

A very old Christian church, Pudenziana was Prassede’s sister. Here you can see both stunning mosaics and also go underground from the garden to visit a two-story insula and an ancient thermal bath. This church, too, is in the Esquilino area not far from Santa Prassede and Santa Maria Maggiore.

Visit Santi Cosma and Damiano Basilica for great mosaics

This is also a church famous for its mosaics, and even though located a stone’s throw from the Colosseum, it’s pretty unknown. Built in the 6th century on the site of former pagan temples, it can be easily accessed from Via dei Fori Imperiali.

Duck into Santa Maria Sopra Minerva Basilica

Close to the Pantheon, in this church, the remains of St. Catherine of Siena and the Italian painter Beato Angelico are kept. One of the few Gothic-style churches in Rome, it was built in the 13th century on the site of three pagan temples. While it’s not too big, it has a great deal of artwork by names of the likes of Michelangelo, Bernini and Filippino Lippi.

Admire a 3D fresco in Sant’Ignazio di Loyola Church

For sure there’s no lack of churches in Rome, but Sant’Ignazio di Loyola is not your average Catholic temple. At the moment of construction, in the 17th century, the money ran out, so the originally planned dome couldn’t be properly built anymore.

But thankfully, the talent and creativity of artist-priest Andrea Pozzo made up for the lack of funds. Thanks to a finely conceived perspective, you will have the impression of looking at a real dome supported by pillars while you will be standing underneath a fresco.

Explore the notable mansion of Palazzo Barberini

A fantastic place to learn more about the glamorous life of Rome’s noble families is Palazzo Barberini , the beautiful, majestic mansion that opens in Via delle Quattro Fontane near Via Veneto, Via del Tritone, and Fontana di Trevi.

Visit this palace for a glimpse of the Barberinis’ past and the rich collection of artwork that gathers masterpieces from Caravaggio, Bernini, Borromini, Pietro da Cortona, and Guido Reni. Make sure you don’t miss the spectacular staircases by Bernini at the entrance and by Borromini at the exit.

Go on a Bernini-themed tour

Gian Lorenzo Bernini has been one of the most prolific artists in Rome’s Baroque period, often regarded as the creator of Baroque sculpture and one of the leading architects, sculptors, and painters.

You can find Bernini’s Roman masterpieces scattered all around the city. Churches, fountains, sculptures, paintings, you name it, he did it. From the Four Rivers fountain in the heart of Piazza Navona to Palazzo Barberini to the world-famous colonnade of Saint Peter’s Square, you can find the touch of this incredible artist in many of the artwork that makes Rome so beautiful.

Seek out Borromini’s genius

Contemporary and eternal rival of Bernini, Borromini was an architectural genius. Unlike his peer, he was an introvert and quite bad-tempered, and this is mainly why he gained fewer commissions than Bernini who, on the other hand, was more talented in cultivating and nurturing relationships with the influential people of his time.

Some of Borromini’s masterpieces in Rome you shouldn’t miss include the gorgeous Sant’Agnese in Agone church in Piazza Navona and Sant’Ivo alla Sapienza in Corso del Rinascimento near the Pantheon.

What to do in Rome for a romantic trip

One of the best destinations for your honeymoon in Italy, there are many romantic things to do in Rome .

Evening walk along the Tiber

There is hardly anything more romantic in Rome than a night stroll along the Tiber river. The city lights and the landmarks you visited during the day reflect on the calm waters creating a beautiful view.

Enjoy a couple spa treatment

Many hotels offer spa treatments in Rome, but some are really romantic, especially those set in ancient Roman ruins. Such as the wellness center of Hotel Lunetta near Campo de’ Fiori where you can do a sauna, enter the steam room, and do a couple massage.

Enjoy a beautiful view

Thankfully, there is no shortage of such a thing in Rome. Go to the Garden of the Oranges in the Aventine Hill, enjoy the view from the Pincio Terrace in Villa Borghese, climb the dome of St. Peter’s Basilica or take a stroll on the Monte Mario hill for a scenic view from the Astronomical Observatory. From wherever you look, the landscape will be stunning.

Reserve a romantic dinner

No shortage of romantic restaurants in Rome. Candle-lit tables, alfresco options, beautiful views, and historical locations contribute to making the ambiance romantic and perfect for a date. Some of my favorite restaurants? Settimo in the Sofitel Villa Borghese Hotel for a fantastic view, Aroma in the 5-star Palazzo Manfredi hotel, Perpetual gourmet restaurant near the Colosseum.

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About The Author: Angela Corrias

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23 TOP Sights & BEST Things to Do in Rome, Italy (+Map, Photos & Info)

By Author Jurga

Posted on Last updated: September 28, 2023

Looking for the best things to do in Rome, Italy, and wondering what’s worth your time the most? Of course, you have to see the most famous places in Rome, such as the Trevi Fountain, the Pantheon, the Vatican, or the Colosseum! But there’s so much more to do in Rome than that, and the choice of what to visit and what to skip can get overwhelming…

So to help you figure out where to go and what to do when in Rome, in this guide we share the  VERY BEST experiences, TOP sights, and MOST POPULAR tourist attractions in Rome that you really shouldn’t miss .

For each place, we also include our experience-based tips and useful info for your visit. In addition, we also created a  map of Rome attractions  that should help you plan your sightseeing itinerary. Find out!

The capital city of Italy, Rome is one of the most beautiful and fascinating cities in Europe. It’s a place where you’ll find so much history everywhere you look. I often call Rome a city–museum because it truly feels like it. Every building, every monument, and every stone you come across has an interesting story behind it.

There is SO MUCH to see and do in Rome that any list of ‘the best things to do‘ would never be complete and also quite biased. On the other hand, there are also the most iconic landmarks and the most special experiences in Rome that everyone would agree are the absolute must-do’s in Rome.

So in this article, we share all of the ‘musts’ the main sights and most unique experiences in Rome that you really should try to do in the Eternal City. In addition, we also include some of our personal favorite things to do in Rome based on our various trips and personal experiences in the city.

These are all places and activities that we enjoyed the most, and we are confident that they’ll make your visit to Rome so much more special and more memorable than just ticking off the standard list of the must-sees.

This is our ultimate Rome bucket list, with lots of pictures , to give you a better idea of what exactly there is to see and do in Rome. Take a look!

How to use this guide: We start our list of the best places to visit and things to do in Rome with the musts. So the first 16 sights and attractions on our list are really considered a must, and the ones you should focus on if you have little time.

However, it’s those additional experiences listed from #17 on that will make your trip to Rome so much more special. So I highly recommend that you try to include a few of those in your sightseeing itinerary as well.

To help you plan your time, at the bottom of this article, you can find the map indicating all the main places we mention in this guide. Plus, we share some sample Rome itineraries for various trip durations.

But first, here are some of the VERY BEST places to see and things to do in Rome:

1. Colosseum

MUST DO: Visit the Colosseum Underground, Arena Floor & Upper Levels.

The Colosseum is one of the most iconic landmarks in Rome, and an absolute must-see. No matter how much time you have in the city, it should be on every Rome itinerary!

Built as an entertainment arena at around 70 AD, this impressive stone amphitheater still stands today, giving you a unique opportunity to get a glimpse into its 2000-year-old past.

There are several things that you can do at the Colosseum and various levels that you can visit. I recommend going for the full experience – from discovering the secrets of the Colosseum Underground to taking the unique opportunity to stand on the partially restored Arena Floor, to soaking in the most impressive views from the upper levels.

Good to know: The Colosseum is one of the most-visited places in Rome and booking tickets (or a guided tour) in advance is essential! If you go on your own, you can get regular priority tickets (often unavailable) or – a bit more expensive – priority tickets that also include a visit to Arena Floor .

However, the crowds here are overwhelming and it’s not always clear where to go… So we highly recommend that you visit the Colosseum with a local guide! That way, you don’t have to worry about any practicalities and have a much better idea of what you are seeing, how this arena functioned, and what life looked like in Rome during the glory days of the Roman Empire.

There are countless options when it comes to guided tours, but be sure to read carefully what they include.

TIP: We recommend this amazing tour that includes ALL the levels of the Colosseum + a guided visit to the Roman Forum and the Palatine Hill. We visited all these places on a tour and it was a great choice. The priority entrance surely helps but having the guide with us made the visit so much more enjoyable. We didn’t have to stress about where exactly to go, which entrance to take, how to get from one level to another, or what to see at the overwhelmingly huge Roman Forum – Palatine Hill site.

READ ALSO: How to Visit Colosseum (all levels, tickets, and tours explained in detail)

2. Pantheon

MUST DO: See the oculus of the Pantheon.

The Pantheon , located on the beautiful Piazza della Rotonda , is another place everyone should see in Rome!

Originally built as a temple to all gods, the Pantheon dates from before Christianity. The building as we know it today was built around 125-127 AD on the site of an even older temple. The Pantheon is the world’s oldest building that is still in use today .

While most old temples and ancient landmarks in Rome have suffered from looters and plundering, the Pantheon was saved by the fact that it was converted into a church at the beginning of the 7th century.

Best known for its impressive dome with an oculus in the middle, the Pantheon is also one of the most fascinating buildings in Rome. The construction of this dome by an unknown ancient architect has been an inspiration to Michelangelo’s dome of St. Peter’s Basilica in the Vatican, Hagia Sophia in Istanbul, and – subsequently – all the other domes in the world.

Good to know: The Pantheon is still a working church, but it’s also one of the most popular tourist attractions in Rome so there’s always a very long queue to get inside. Nowadays, you need an entry ticket to visit the Pantheon. While you can just wait in line and get a ticket on the spot, we highly recommend booking a timed-entry slot in advance or you’ll waste way too much time queuing (often for over an hour in the heat with no shade).

Visiting the Pantheon is one of the absolute must-do things in Rome, so you really cannot skip seeing the interior of this unique building. But booking upfront is definitely the best way to visit. If you rather not worry about tickets and all the practicalities, you can also visit here with a guided tour .

TIP: Almost 2000 years old, the Pantheon is a fascinating place with so much history, so be sure to read a bit about it before you go. Online tickets usually include an audio guide so you can learn more about the Pantheon and everything you see inside.

3. Trevi Fountain

MUST DO: Throw a coin in the Trevi Fountain.

No trip to Rome would be complete without seeing the famous Trevi Fountain . And, as the legend goes, you also have to throw a coin in the fountain, if you ever want to return to the Eternal City. Having thrown quite some coins in here over the years, I have to say that it definitely works – we always go back to Rome. 😉

There are two more reasons to throw a coin in the Trevi fountain – one is to find love in Rome, and the other one – to get married in Rome. Each of these ‘wishes’ requires a separate coin and you can’t throw them all together.

In addition, before you simply toss a coin in the water, you should know that there is a whole instruction on ‘the only right way’ to do it . You should stand with your back towards the fountain and toss the coin with your right hand over your left shoulder. Oh, and try to have someone take a picture of you without too many other people around…

TIP: If you want to see the Trevi Fountain without the crowds, you’ll have to come very early in the morning, probably at around sunrise. For the rest of the day and in the evening, it’s always crowded here.

Good to know: If you have more time and are looking for something a bit more unique to do in Rome, you may want to explore the Trevi district underground . It’s truly fascinating to discover the remains of the old city of Rome that most tourists don’t even realize are right under their feet.

4. Sistine Chapel & Vatican Museums

MUST DO: Admire the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel, visit Raphael Rooms, Vatican gardens, and see Momo Staircase.

Seeing the Sistine Chapel at the Vatican Museums is another ‘must’ that should be at the top of any Rome bucket list! The Sistine Chapel ( Cappella Sistina ) is the papal chapel built at the end of the 15 th century. Originally called ‘Cappella Magna’, it was later renamed after the Pope that built it, Pope Sixtus IV.

It’s here that the papal conclave takes place when the new Pope has to be elected. But don’t look for the famous chimney where the black or the white smoke comes out during the conclave – it’s only installed at that time and is not something you can see when you visit.

The Sistine Chapel is best known for its incredible ceiling painted by Michelangelo between 1508 and 1512. It’s one of the most important works of High Renaissance art and a true masterpiece! But you have to take your time to really appreciate it – all the details and the perspectives.

If you spend some time looking at the frescoes above you, some of the figures almost look three-dimensional. It’s an incredible piece of art and once you see it, it’s easy to understand why it’s considered one of the most important pieces of art of all time.

But there’s more to the Vatican Museums than just this famous chapel! Some of our favorites include the four Raphael Rooms, the Gallery of Maps, a stroll through the gardens (some parts are accessible from the museum, while some others can only be seen with an extra tour), and the famous Momo Staircase.

TIP: The Vatican Museums are always busy and the tickets usually sell out days in advance. So it’s essential to book the entrance tickets upfront . However, I highly recommend visiting here with a tour instead of just going on your own. That’s if you want to be sure that you see all the musts; otherwise, just stroll around and you’ll eventually get to the Sistine Chapel by following the signs. Keep in mind that the Vatican Museums are really overwhelming for a first-time visitor.

Our recommendation: Check out this amazing early-morning tour of the Vatican . It gives you unique access to the Sistine Chapel before anyone else arrives! Of course, it includes all the musts of the Vatican too.

5. St. Peter’s Basilica

M UST DO: See Michelangelo’s Pietà, visit Papal Tombs & climb the Dome of St. Peter’s Basilica. And don’t miss the famous Swiss Guard!

St. Peter’s Basilica is the largest and most important Catholic church in the world. The building is massive and it’s difficult to imagine its scale by seeing it in the pictures or even when standing outside. You really have to see it from the inside to try to comprehend the sheer scale of this church!

Built at the site of St. Peter’s tomb, this is also the place where many Popes are buried. So in addition to seeing the church itself, I also highly recommend visiting the underground crypts .

But one of the most unique experiences in the Vatican is climbing to the top of St. Peter’s Dome . Not only do you have some of the best views in the city (and over the Vatican itself), but you can also walk on the interior gallery at the top of the dome itself. Seeing the church and the people below from here gives you a better idea of how huge the church really is.

On your way out of the church, on your right and just before the post office, you’ll be able to see the famous Swiss Guard in their colorful uniforms, guarding the official entrance gate to the Vatican.

Good to know: St. Peter’s Basilica can be visited free of charge and there are no tickets or reservations, but there is usually a very long queue with an airport-style security check in order to get inside. If you want to climb the Dome, you’ll have to wait in yet another line and get a ticket on the spot. We highly recommend taking the elevator for the first part, because you still have 330 steps to do inside the Dome itself afterwards.

TIP: Some Vatican Museum tours ( like this one ) include a visit to St. Peter’s Basilica and use a separate corridor between the two, which saves you lots of time (not having to queue twice). Or you can also take a separate tour of the Basilica if you have more time and rather visit the two places separately and also take your time to climb the dome.

We did this St. Peter’s tour that included a tour of the church itself, the underground crypts, as well as the Dome climb.

6. Roman Forum

MUST DO: Walk on Via Sacra and see the (ruins of) some of the oldest buildings in Rome.

If you want to get a better idea of what the city of Rome looked like two 2000 years ago, there’s no better place to be than the Roman Forum ( Forum Romanum ). This is a huge archeological site right next to the Colosseum (and included with the same ticket ).

For centuries, this place was the heart and soul of public life in ancient Rome. As you walk on the main street of ancient Rome, Via Sacra , it’s easy to imagine that this road was the main route where the triumphal parades were held. Here, you can see the ruins of so many buildings dating from the times of the Roman Empire.

This is also the best place in the city to understand what people mean by the ‘dust of centuries’. The entire site lies much deeper than the current street level. Note the famous ‘hanging’ door of The Temple of Antoninus and Faustina, with no steps leading to it. This shows how the street level has changed during the centuries.

TIP: While you could spend at least half a day at the Roman Forum alone, it’s best visited together with the Colosseum and the Palatine Hill (mentioned below). All three sites are included with the Colosseum ticket. Many Colosseum tours also come here and I highly recommend visiting the Roman Forum with a local guide . It gives you a much better understanding of all the places and ancient landmarks that you see around you.

We took this tour that included the Colosseum underground and all the other levels, as well as Palatine Hill and the Roman Forum, and we were really glad we did. This was not the first time we visited these places, but we learned so much and saw so much more than on the previous individual (unguided) visits. Highly recommended.

There are many other tours that come here as well , so pick one that best suits your itinerary and interests. We really recommend going with a guide.

7. Palatine Hill

MUST DO: Admire the views from Terraza Belvedere del Palatino, see the old palaces, gardens, and fountains.

Palatine Hill is the most famous of the seven hills of Rome and one of the oldest parts of the city. In ancient times, this was the chicest and most desirable neighborhood of Rome, the place-to-be for the rich and the famous.

Nowadays, Palatine Hill is an open-air museum/ archeological site, where you can see the remains of some grand palaces of the Roman empire. It also offers some of the best views in the city, with the Roman Forum and Colosseum on one side and Circus Maximus on the other side.

There are several viewpoints on Palatine Hill. By far the best view is from the terrace overlooking the Roman Forum and the city center, Terrazza Belvedere del Palatino .

Good to know: An entrance ticket to the Palatine Hill is included with your Colosseum/ Forum Romanum ticket, and a visit here is not to be missed. You could spend hours exploring all the ruins, but in all honesty, going without a tour guide, it will be difficult to understand what you are seeing.

TIP: Just as with the Colosseum and Forum Romanum, we highly recommend that you visit the Palatine with a guided tour . There are so many great tours that include all these places in just a few hours, so you’ll definitely find one that will suit your interests. No matter which one you choose, it will be a hundred times better than trying to make sense of all the ruins on your own.

As already mentioned, we did and recommend this highly-rated tour that includes the Colosseum underground, Arena Floor, and Roman Forum + Palatine Hill. Even though it’s quite rushed, we saw (and learned) so much more in 3 hours than we did on any of our previous visits to Rome without a guide.

8. St. Angel’s Bridge

MUST DO: Admire the angels of St. Angel’s Bridge .

Probably the best-known and definitely the most photographed bridge in the Eternal City, St. Angel’s Bridge ( Ponte Sant’ Angelo ) is another landmark not to be missed in Rome.

The bridge was built in 134 AD by Emperor Hadrianus in order to connect his mausoleum (that is now known as Castelo Sant’ Angelo) to the city. This beautiful bridge and its surroundings have a long history and it’s been improved a lot over the centuries.

If you walk to the Vatican from the historic center of Rome, be sure to walk over St. Angel’s Bridge. It’s so impressive! This pedestrian bridge is lined with the statues of 10 angels (5 on each side) and right in front of you, stands Castello Sant’Angelo. The angels were commissioned by Pope Clement IX and made by the pupils of Bernini (17th century).

Interesting fact: Bernini himself made two angels for this bridge as well, but the Pope found them too beautiful and too valuable to be placed on the bridge. So the originals were replaced by the copies. If you want to see the two original angels, you can admire them at the Sant’ Andrea delle Fratte church in Rome.

This bridge serves as a gateway to the Vatican and is often extremely busy, especially during the opening hours of the Vatican Museums and St. Peter’s Basilica. But if you can come here early in the morning before the crowds arrive, it’s absolutely magical!

TIP: If you want to see some nice views of Rome’s cityscapes, visit Castel Sant’Angelo and go to the rooftop. If you are short on time, this museum is not an absolute must in Rome. But if you decide to visit, be sure to get fast-track tickets in advance !

9. Piazza Navona

MUST DO: See the fountains .

Probably the best-known of all the town squares in Rome, Piazza Navona is the biggest and also the most beautiful one. And no trip to Rome would be complete without at least a quick visit here.

Piazza Navona has a rather unique – very long – shape. This is because it was built on the site of the ancient Roman Stadium of Domitian and follows its form.

In the center of Piazza Navona, stands a big obelisk and the 17th-century Fountain of the Four Rivers ( Fontana dei Quattro Fiumi ). It was designed by Bernini and is one of the most beautiful fountains in Rome. In addition, don’t miss two other impressive fountains – the Fountain of Neptune ( Fontana del Nettuno ) on the northern side of the square and the Moor Fountain ( Fontana del Moro ) on the southern end.

In addition, check out the impressive 17th-century Baroque church of Sant’Agnese in Agone . The church is dedicated to St Agnes, an early Christian martyr, who was executed at the Stadium of Domitian at this location.

Nowadays, Piazza Navona is a bustling meeting place, with lots of cafes and restaurants lining its sides. Just beware that a cup of coffee here costs 2-3 times the price of other cafés nearby, and the quality of the food isn’t amazing. But if you want to sit down and do some people-watching, it’s a beautiful place for that!

TIP: While the early morning is the best time to take pictures of Piazza Navona without the crowds, be sure to come here in the evening as well. It’s such a lively and bustling place and it feels totally different than during the day.

Interesting to know: Piazza Navona was built over the ancient Roman site of the Stadium of Domitian. It is now possible to visit this fascinating archeological site underneath the square. You can find more info and get tickets here .

10. Campo de’Fiori market

MUST DO: See the statue of Giordano Bruno and buy some local delicacies at the market.

Campo de’ Fiori is one of the nicest town squares in Rome. As its name suggests, in the past, it was a field of flowers and was only developed in the 15th century. It quickly became a popular gathering and trading place, but also a site for many religiously-tinted executions.

In the center of the square, stands the statue of martyr Giordano Bruno. He was a 16th-century philosopher who was burned alive for his progressive thinking (supporting Copernic’s idea that the Earth is rotating around the sun and not the other way around).

Nowadays, Campo de’ Fiori is the site of a bustling market where you can buy all kinds of local produce, exotic fruit, flowers, etc. While some market stalls are catering mainly to tourists with all kinds of Italian pasta, colorful liquors, etc., the market is also popular with the locals who come here for fresh fruit, vegetables, cheeses, and meat.

Good to know: The market is open daily except on Sundays, between 7 AM and 2 PM. In the evening, Campo de Fiori is a popular gathering place, and there are lots of nice restaurants and cafes in this area. But – as it usually is with places to eat in Rome – the restaurants on the square itself are quite expensive and don’t always have the best reputation. So check out the ones a bit further away.  

11. Piazza Venezia

MUST DO: See the huge, temple-like Altar of the Fatherland monument.

Piazza Venezia is a big and very busy square squeezed in between the city center on one side and the Roman Forum on the other. It’s one of the must-see places in Rome that you’ll inevitably pass on your way to/from the Colosseum.

Piazza Venezia is best known for the colossal monument – Altar of the Fatherland ( Altare della Patria ) – and the equestrian statue of Vittorio Emanuele II . But – just as everywhere in Rome – there’s so much more to see and do here, including ancient ruins, several churches, the nearby Capitoline Hill and Museums, etc.

TIP: If you have some time to spare, you can also  take an elevator to the top of the monument for panoramic views of Rome. It’s well worth it. You can find more info and get tickets here .

12. Trajan Forum & Via dei Fori Imperiali

MUST DO: Walk Via dei Fori Imperiali.

One of the must-see streets of Rome – Via dei Fori Imperiali  – links Piazza Venezia to the Colosseum. This wide avenue lined with statues of the Roman emperors is like a museum in itself.

On one side, you have the earlier-mentioned Roman Forum, and on the other – the archeological sites of the Forum of Augustus , Trajan Forum , and many other historic places.

You can see a lot from the street and there are some information panels here and there. So you can just walk around a bit and try to imagine what Rome must have looked like more than 2000 years ago. If you have some extra time, you can also visit several museums here. Trajan’s Market, a 2nd-century Roman market, is quite interesting to see. For more info and tickets, see here .

13. Capitoline Hill

MUST DO: See the Capitoline She-wolf, the symbol of Rome.

Capitoline Hill  ( Campidoglio ) sits right next to Piazza Venezia. This beautiful square and the impressive staircase leading to it were designed by Michelangelo. Here, you’ll also find the City Hall of Rome and Capitoline Museums , which house a big collection of Roman, Greek, and Egyptian antiques.

This is also where you can see the statue of the  Capitoline Wolf ( Lupa Capitolina ), the symbol of Rome.

This statue depicts an old legend, according to which a she-wolf saved and cared for Romulus and Remus, the twin brothers who later founded the city of Rome. The original statue can be found inside the museum , but you can also see its replica outside.

TIP: Behind the city hall, you can also find a panoramic terrace with nice views of the Roman Forum. This is one of the best viewpoints of Rome that is really easy to visit.

14. Spanish Steps & Piazza di Spagna

MUST DO: Explore Piazza di Spagna and walk to the top of the stairs.

Piazza di Spagna and the Spanish Steps is another of the must-see places in Rome.

Built in the early 18th century, these stairs connect Piazza di Spagna in the historic city center to Piazza Trinità dei Monti on top of the hill. It’s an impressive staircase that has been featured in various movies and is also often depicted on many postcards and travel guides. Every spring, the staircase is decorated with beautiful flowers, and it looks even more beautiful!

At the bottom of the stairs, you’ll see the Fountain of the Boat ( Fontana della Barcaccia ), just one of the many of Bernini’s masterpieces in Rome. Piazza di Spagna is also lined with colorful buildings and surrounded by the most luxury boutique shopping area in Rome. Here, you’ll also find some nice cafes and restaurants. If you like cakes or the English tea experience (and don’t mind the high price tag), check out the famous Babington’s tea room at the bottom left of the stairs.

At the top of Spanish Steps stands Trinità dei Monti church . The church is nice, but not an absolute must, but it’s worth going up the stairs just to say that you’ve done it and also for the nice views of the city. For even better views, don’t go back the same way you came, but continue to the left in the direction of Pincio Terrace and Piazza del Popolo (more info below).

Good to know: It is forbidden to sit or eat on the Spanish Steps. It’s a beautiful monument and the city tries to preserve it that way.

15. Villa Borghese Gardens & Gallery

MUST DO: See the art masterpieces at Villa Borghese Gallery and also be sure to explore the park.

Villa Borghese  is one of the biggest and most beautiful parks in Rome. It’s best known for the Borghese Gallery , a beautiful villa-museum that houses some of the most beautiful artworks by Bernini, Caravaggio, Raphael, Canova, and others. Art lovers consider this as one of the best museums to visit in Rome !

While the Gallery only requires an hour or two, the park itself is huge and you could spend an entire day walking around. There are several other museums here, fountains, walkways lined with sculptures and art, flower gardens, playgrounds for kids, and even a zoo. In summer, you can also rent a boat on the small lake, rent bikes, etc.

Good to know:  If you want to visit the Borghese Gallery, you have to book in advance! Also, the tickets are timed, so be sure to arrive on time. You can opt for  a regular entrance ticket , or join this amazing guided tour that covers the museum as well as the beautiful gardens. If you want to see the best of the museum and the gardens in just a few hours, we recommend going with a tour. If you are short on time, just get a ticket and walk through the museum on your own.

16. Piazza del Popolo

MUST DO: See the obelisk and the fountains.

Piazza del Popolo  (literally ‘the People’s Square’) is another large and impressive town square that deserves a quick visit. It’s located at the Aurelian city walls, right at one of the old city gates of Rome, Porta Flaminia .

Piazza del Popolo is a huge square, a place where several big streets meet. One of the streets leads in the direction of the Vatican, the other – towards the Pantheon and Piazza Navona. The famous Via del Corso leads towards Piazza Venezia and the Colosseum, and Via del Babuino – towards Piazza di Spagna and the Spanish Steps.

In the center of Piazza del Popolo, stands an  Egyptian Obelisk  and the  Fountain of the Lions . There are two other fountains – Fontana del Nettuno and Fontana della Dea di Roma – at the western and eastern sides of the square. And it’s also flanked by two impressive churches  Santa Maria dei Miracoli  and  Santa Maria di Montesanto .

TIP: If you want to experience the ‘wow’ effect that Rome’s first-time visitors must have had upon arrival, be sure to enter the square via the city gate.

Now that we covered the absolute must-see places in Rome, I really want to add a few more places and experiences to this list. It’s these additional sights and activities that will make your trip to the Eternal City so much more special!

These are worth it just as much as the ‘musts’ listed above!

Here are some more amazing things to do in Rome that we highly recommend :

17. Check out some of Rome’s best viewpoints

The city of seven hills, Rome has quite a few places from where you can admire some panoramic views of the city and its surroundings.

We already mentioned the views from St. Peter’s Dome, Palatine Hill, or from the top of the monument at Piazza Venezia . In addition, don’t miss the views from Pincian Hill, Gianicollo Hill, and potentially also from Aventine Hill. We indicated all of these on our map of Rome attractions at the bottom of this post.

Pincian Hill is located between Piazza del Popolo and Villa Borghese gardens. Some of the best views can be found at Terrazza del Pincio and a smaller terrace to the east of it. These are very popular sunset viewpoints in Rome offering stunning views of the city center with St. Peter’s Basilica in the distance.

Belvedere del Gianicolo viewpoint on Gianicollo Hill is located on the other side of the river, and almost on the opposite side from Pinician Hill. It gives a great view of the city center as well.

Orange Garden ( Giardino degli Aranci ) on Aventine Hill is another beautiful place for stunning cityscapes and panoramas.

LEARN MORE: Best Views in Rome (+ photos & a map with exact locations)

18. Bicycle on the Ancient Appian Way

If you are looking for more unique things to do in Rome, then I can highly recommend a visit to the ancient Appian Way . Walking or driving over a road that’s been there for over 2300 years is such a unique experience. I can’t even try to describe the feeling this place gives you – it’s something you just have to experience.

Built around 312-264 BC, the Appian Way connected Rome to Brindisi in Southern Italy. It was mainly used for military purposes in order to facilitate the expansion of the Roman Empire. Once completed, the road spanned for over 563 km (350 miles).

Since it was forbidden to bury people inside the city in the past, Appian Way is also lined with many mausoleums and ancient family graves. You can still see (parts of) some of them today.

While you can discover the Appian Way on foot, I highly recommend that you come here by bike. The nicest sections near Rome are quite far from the city center, so you’d need to take a bus otherwise. And you can’t walk that far if you need to take the bus back to the city center. Whereas if you come by bike, you can easily explore a much bigger section of the Appian Way and get a much better feeling of what this road was about.

TIP: Appian Way is quite bumpy and coming here with a regular bike won’t be that much fun either. Ideally, you have a sturdy electric mountain bike. We visited the Appian Way on this amazing e-bike tour and it was one of the most memorable experiences in Rome. In addition to driving on the Appian Way, we also explored the Catacombs of St. Calixtus, visited the ancient aqueducts, walked on the city walls, and so much more. Highly recommended!

To me, and also to my teenage son, this was one of the absolute favorites of our recent 4-day trip to Rome . Hands-down, one of the most special things you can do in Rome.

Good to know: There are various tours that include a visit to the Appian Way in their itinerary (by bus, bike, etc.). No matter which tour you choose, it’s well worth it. Going with a guide, you don’t have to worry about getting there (and back), and you can be sure to visit the most impressive parts of this centuries-old road and learn more about its fascinating history.

19. Take a food tour

While there are so many incredible landmarks that you must-see in Rome, as far as ‘things to do’, taking a food tour is definitely one of the VERY BEST things to do in Rome!

There is probably no better way to get to know the real Rome than by taking a food tour with a local guide! In the past, I always thought that you can just ‘organize’ your own food tasting by checking out some local shops, markets, or researching the better restaurants, and that food tours weren’t really worth it… But it’s really not even comparable…

Recently, we did a few food tours in various places, and it has become one of my favorite ways to explore a place. It’s such a great way to get to know the city just a bit better, hear some local anecdotes, learn various new dishes, and visit some cool places that most tourists don’t know about.

Anyway, back to food tours in Rome. There’s such a big variety of food tours that it might be difficult to choose. I’d say just pick one that suits your itinerary best (in terms of starting times, but also the area they visit).

Here are some of our hand-picked recommendations for some of the best food tours in Rome:

• Street food tour . This is the tour that we did on our recent visit in Rome and it was excellent. It runs twice a day (lunch or dinner), and starts and ends in the heart of the historic city center, making it quite easy to include it in any itinerary. It also includes a visit to the Jewish Ghetto (and a delicious cake there!).
• Food tour in the city center + Trastevere . This is a nice food tour for those who are looking to try a bigger variety of local dishes and wines. It’s more expensive because it also includes a 3-course dinner.
• Food tour near the Vatican . This is an excellent dinner tour that takes you to some very local places, far from the areas frequented by tourists. If you’re looking for a more authentic experience, you can’t go wrong with this highly-rated tour.
• And there are many others, or you can opt for various cooking classes as well.

No matter which tour you choose, I’m sure it will make your visit to the Eternal City so much more special. For us, it was one of the best experiences in Rome, and the only regret we had was that we didn’t think to foresee more time and do several food tours instead of just going for lunch or dinner.

Next time we’re in Rome, we’re going for a different food tour every day!

READ ALSO: Rome Street Food Tour: Review & Tips

20. Explore the fascinating underground sites

With a rich, centuries-long history, Rome is full of unique underground sites where you can literally take a trip back in time. So no list of the best things to do in Rome would be complete without mentioning some of the best underground experiences in the city.

There are so many interesting underground sites to see in Rome and quite a few of them are open to the public and can be easily visited (albeit, often only with a guide). It can be overwhelming to even know where to start or which ones are worth it the most. So to help you out, we made a small selection of some of the best ones.

Here are a few of our favorite underground places to visit in Rome and how to see them:

• Colosseum Underground . Easy to visit with a guided tour of the Colosseum. Just be sure that the tour you book actually includes the underground level (standard tickets don’t). Here you can find a selection of tours that visit the Underground . And this is the tour that we did (and highly recommend).
• Papal Tombs . Right under St. Peter’s Basilica and can be visited free of charge, but do expect a queue. We went with this guided tour of the Basilica that also included the dome climb, and somehow just entered the crypts without having to wait. So I’m not exactly sure if they have some kind of priority. But you can also visit this level and see where many Popes are buried on your own. The actual St. Peter’s tomb is located even deeper and that level is not easy to visit (requires a special Vatican tour).
• Capuchin Crypts . Located close to Piazza Barberini and quite easy to visit on your own. Many underground tours include a visit here , some in addition to some interesting places that are located much further away from the city center.
• Domus Aurea – the ‘Golden House’ of Emperor Nero. It’s located close to the Colosseum, and you can join one of the guided tours if you want to visit inside.
• St. Clement Basilica. Located just a few minutes walk from the Colosseum, this is a truly unique place. Under the 12th-century church, there’s a 4th-century basilica, and yet another level deeper, a 1st-century pagan temple. You can easily visit on your own. Tickets are available online , but you can also just get a ticket on the spot.
• Catacombs . There are many ancient catacombs in Rome, and they’re all located outside the historic city walls. So you’ll need some kind of transportation for them. The most famous are the Catacombs of St. Callixtus , and entrance tickets include a guided tour (you can only visit with one of their guides). We recommend visiting the catacombs with organized tours – that way, your transport is taken care of, and these tours usually include a few other sites. We visited the catacombs with this wonderful e-bike tour that included the Appian Way, ancient aqueducts, and more.

These are just a few examples of the best underground sites that you can easily see in Rome. Even if you just visit a few of these places, it will make your trip to the Eternal City so much more memorable. Well worth it!

LEARN MORE: Rome Underground (Best Sites + Map & Info)

21. Get off the beaten path

In addition to all the famous landmarks and popular tourist attractions in Rome, one of the best ways to get to know the real Rome is to get a bit off the beaten path .

We already mentioned the underground sites that are totally worth your time. But there’s more, so much more to see in Rome! So if you have some time to spare, check out some local neighborhoods and lesser-known sights as well!

Discover the colorful streets of Trastevere , try some local restaurants in the Jewish Ghetto , or check out the quirky architecture of Quartiere Coppede . Visit some lesser-known archeological sites, admire the stunning art at one of the many museums, or spend some time at a local market… There’s so much more to see and do in Rome than just visiting its main sights!

This is not only a great way to escape the crowds, but you also get to know the city a bit better and get a better idea of what Rome is truly like. If you are not sure where to start, through the link below, you can check out our guide to some of the nicest lesser-known places that we recommend to see in Rome.

  LEARN MORE: Rome Hidden Gems

22. Go (window) shopping at luxury boutiques

Among many other things, Italy is also famous for its fashion. And while Rome isn’t as famous for fashion as Milan , you’ll find all the big names in the fashion industry represented here. So no trip to Rome would be complete without doing some (window) shopping at some of the most famous luxury boutiques !

One of the best areas to go shopping in Rome is the neighborhood around the Spanish Steps – Piazza del Popolo . Here, you’ll find some of the most expensive fashion retailers in the world. In addition, there are also lots of main-street brands too.

One of the best-known luxury shopping streets is Via dei Condotti . Here, you’ll find brands like Gucci, Prada, BVLGARI, Louis Vuitton, Saint Laurent, Dolce & Gabbana, and many others. For (much) more affordable fashion, head to Via del Corso . Here you’ll find stores like GAP, Levi’s, Nike, and similar.

And even if you aren’t planning to buy anything, you really can’t say you’ve been to Rome and not walked on Via dei Condotti…

Good to know:  Most stores are open daily from 10-11 AM to 7.30-8 PM.

23. Have some of the best gelatos in the world

No list of the best things to do in Rome would be complete without mentioning its gelatos . Rome has some of the best ice cream in the world! And even if you are only visiting Rome for a day , you should make some time for at least one or two gelatos.

There are so many really good gelaterias in Rome that it would be difficult to mention even a small part of them. Here are some of the most famous: Giolitti and Della Palma (both very centrally located), and also Venchi (with multiple stores in the city).

TIP: Don’t just assume that every gelateria you come across is just as good, however. There are quite some places (especially close to the main tourist attractions) that sell mediocre ice cream. It’s usually still quite ok, but can’t even compare to the best artisanal ice cream, so make a bit of effort and locate a really good one!

We also indicated these and some other really good gelaterias in Rome on our map of Rome attractions below.

Map of Rome Attractions & Sightseeing Itinerary Suggestions

To help you get a better idea of where all the main Rome attractions are located, we created a  map  indicating all the main points of interest and top sights mentioned in this article.

This should help you plan your time a bit better. Just please keep in mind that you can only visit a few of the main tourist attractions in a day. It’s busy everywhere, distances between some sights are quite big, and even with the skip-the-line tickets, you’ll need several hours for each place (if you visit inside). So plan your time well!

TIP:  If you are not sure where to start, we have some sample sightseeing itineraries that can help you plan your time in Rome:

• 1 Day in Rome
• 2 Days in Rome
• 4 Days in Rome

How to use this map:  Use your computer mouse (or fingers) to zoom in or out. Click on the icons to get more information about each place. Click the arrow on the top left corner for the index. Click the star next to the map’s title to add it to your Google Maps account. To view the saved map on your smartphone or PC, open Google Maps, click the menu and go to ‘Your Places’/’Maps’. If you want to print the map or see it in a bigger window, click on ‘View larger map’ in the top right corner.

So, this is our guide to the best of Rome. Of course, there’s SO MUCH more to see and do in Rome than we covered here. Much more than you could ever see in one short visit…

But if you want to experience the VERY BEST that Rome has to offer, this list should help you do just that.

We also highly recommend that – in addition to the ‘musts’ – you try to add to your itinerary a few extra places and activities that we included in this guide. Take a food tour, bike the Appian Way, or visit an underground crypt… – it’s these more unique experiences that will make your visit to Rome even more memorable and more special.

For more information and useful tips for your visit, please also see our guide with top travel tips for Rome via the link below. It’s an essential read when planning your trip!

LEARN MORE: Tips for Visiting Rome & Rome Airport Transfers (from Fiumicino or Ciampino)

Where to Stay for Sightseeing in Rome

PRO TIP:  In order to make the most of your visit to Rome, we recommend staying in the heart of the city.  Our favorite area to stay for sightseeing in Rome  is close to the Pantheon – Piazza Navona.

It’s so conveniently located that you’ll be able to visit most of the main sights of Rome on foot. Plus, there are lots of good restaurants here too.

Here are some hotel recommendations in the heart of the historic city center of Rome, for all budgets:

• €€€€€  Eitch Borromini Palazzo Pamphilj  – a very popular luxury 4* hotel overlooking Piazza Navona.
• €€€€  9HotelCesari  – a nice, recently renovated 4* hotel with the most beautiful rooftop bar/ restaurant.  This is where we stayed on one of the recent trips. Would go back, even if just for their terrace where we had so many amazing breakfasts and cocktails.
• €€€  Albergo Abruzzi  – a popular 3* hotel close to the Pantheon.
• €€  Navona Theatre Hotel  – 3* hotel with a very good price/ quality/ location ratio. One of the bestsellers.
• €+  Hotel Primavera  – a popular 2* hotel offering good value for the location.

LEARN MORE: Where to Stay in Rome: the BEST Area for Sightseeing

READ ALSO: Where to Eat in Rome (tips for finding the best food and some restaurant recommendations)

More travel inspiration for your trip to Italy:

• Where to go: Best places to visit in Italy
• Cities: Best Italian cities to see
• How to plan your time: Italy itinerary for 2 weeks
• Florence: Best things to do in Florence + 1 day in Florence + Florence rooftop bars
• Siena: Best things to do in Siena + Siena Cathedral
• Bologna: Best things to do in Bologna
• Venice: Top sights & attractions in Venice + Tips for Venice gondola + 1 day in Venice + 3 days in Venice
• Milan: Top sights & attractions in Milan + How to see the best of Milan in 1 day
• Naples: Best things to do in Naples + 1 day in Naples + Best day trips from Naples
• Lakes: Best of Lake Garda + Best Towns of Lake Como + Bellagio + Where to stay at Lake Como
• Mountains: Best places in the Dolomites + Hiking in the Dolomites + Trentino
• Coastal areas: Amalfi Coast itinerary + Capri Island + Cinque Terre + Italian Riviera + Amalfi Coast Travel Tips
• More… for more information and inspiration for a big variety of destinations, please check our Italy travel guide .

If you found this post useful, don’t forget to bookmark it and share it with your friends. Are you on Pinterest? Pin these images!

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Monday 24th of January 2022

Information on Rome is excellent. No words to say thank you for interesting suggestions, valuable tips and lot more. My salute. Great information

KIRAN OZA BHAVNAGAR INDIA

Thank you for the kind feedback, Kiran. Happy travels!

• Things to do

Top 10 Sights in Rome

The Colosseum, Fontana di Trevi, Sistine Chapel, Catacombs…Enjoy an unforgettable trip to Rome by visiting these 10 essential visits.

Top 10 sights in Rome

Roman forum, piazza navona, trevi fountain, st. peter's square, st. peter's basilica, sistine chapel, piazza di spagna & the spanish steps.

Day Trips From Rome

Rome's Top Attractions

Free Things to Do

Things to Do With Kids

Beaches Near Rome

Top Museums in Rome

Where to Shop in Rome

Events in Rome

The Best Food to Try

The Top Restaurants in Rome

Nightlife in Rome

The Best Time to Visit Rome

Weather & Climate

Rome Airport Guide

Tipping in Rome

Rome's Top Neighborhoods

Public Transportation in Rome

Itinerary: 3 Days in Rome

3 Days in Rome: What to See and Do

 TripSavvy / Taylor McIntyre 

Rome is a popular travel destination in Italy full of popular tourist attractions . Today's Rome is a vibrant and lively city with reminders of its past everywhere. You'll encounter ancient Roman sites, medieval and Renaissance buildings and fountains, great museums, and beautiful squares. The city is a living museum of history from Roman times to present. It also boasts many fine restaurants, cafes, and good nightlife too.

Prior to the first full day, you will check into your hotel. Take some time to wander around the neighborhood near your hotel. Although Rome is a huge city, its historic center is small, making it easy to walk. If you want to see more of the city, take public bus number 110 (from the train station or ask your hotel for the closest stop). Riding on this bus is an inexpensive way to get a good overview of Rome.

For a more in-depth and personalized introduction to the city, book a walking tour. You'll see top sights such as the Colosseum, Roman Forum, Arch of Constantine, Palatine Hill, Spanish Steps, Trinita dei Monti church, Trevi Fountain and more.

Also check out recommendations for our favorite hotels in Rome: Overall , Budget , and Boutique .

Tip: If you like using physical maps, buy the Rome Transportation Map at a newsstand or tourist shop. It's a good map and if you want to take a bus or the metro, it will be very useful. You might also want to buy a Rome Pass or Discount Card to use on transportation and admissions.

Day 1: The Glories of Ancient Rome, Trevi Fountain, and Dinner near the Pantheon

TripSavvy / Taylor McIntyre

On your first full day in Rome, visit Ancient Rome 's best monuments and ruins.

Palatine Hill and Colosseum

The Roman Colosseum, Ancient Rome's huge amphitheater, was built in between 70 and 82 AD as a venue for gladiatorial and wild animal fights. Today it's one of the best and most popular monuments of Ancient Rome. Check out ways to avoid the long ticket line and Rome Passes and Cards for discounts on admissions.

Nearby you can visit the excavations and museum on the Palatine Hill, home to Roman emperors and aristocrats, also included with the Colosseum ticket.

Tip: On Sunday, the Via dei Fori Imperiali leading to the Colosseum is closed to traffic, making a nice place to walk.

The Roman Forum

The Roman Forum , a huge complex of ruined temples, basilicas, and arches, was the ceremonial, legal, social, and business center of ancient Rome. Give yourself at least two hours to wander around. 

Trevi Fountain and Gelato Break

Now you'll try what many consider the best gelato in Rome at  San Crispino on Via Panetteria near the Trevi Fountain. Then see the magnificent Trevi fountain , completed in 1762. Toss a coin in the fountain to ensure your return to Rome.

Pantheon and Dinner

The Pantheon, the best-preserved building of ancient Rome, has a spectacular dome and free admission, closes at 7 pm. For dinner try Armando al Pantheon, in a street to the right of the Pantheon as you're facing it. (Salita de' Crescenzi, 31, closed Saturday evening and Sunday and part of August). After dinner, splurge on a drink outside in the Pantheon's lively Piazza di Rotonda .

Tip: Bars and cafes charge more to sit outside but it's worth it if you stay awhile and enjoy the ambiance.

Day 2: Capotiline Hill Museums, Rome Neighborhoods, and Traditional Cuisine

TripSavvy / Stella Levantesi 

Today you visit a few of Rome's neighborhoods and museums and sample the traditional Roman cuisine.

Campo dei Fiori, Trastevere, and Jewish Ghetto

Campo dei Fiori is alive in the mornings with a market and flower vendors so it makes an interesting start to your day. From there wander along the Tiber River to Ponte Sisto, cross the Tiber to the Trastevere neighborhood and visit the church of Santa Maria in Trastevere , Rome's first Christian church. Cross back to the other side and continue to the Jewish Ghetto . There are several places to sample Rome's interesting Jewish cuisine in the Ghetto.

Tip: If you're up early and want good photos of Piazza Navona, start the itinerary there, before the tourists arrive. Then continue to Campo dei Fiori .

Capitoline Hill Museums

From the busy Piazza Venezia, a transport hub and home to the Vittorio Emanuele Monument, go up to the Capitoline Hill , where you will have a fabulous view of the Roman Forum. The piazza was designed by Michelangelo and the museums are the oldest in the world. Palazzo Nuovo has Greek and Roman sculptures and Palazzo dei Conservatori has art galleries, sculptures, and frescoes. 

Testaccio District

Tonight, go to the  Testaccio District by taxi, bus 75 or the metro. You'll want to make a reservation for dinner at Checchino dal 1887, a very nice restaurant serving old Roman cuisine. The Testaccio District has several good nightclubs if you want to go out after dinner.

Tip: Be alert for pickpockets on the Metro and in crowds.

Day 3: Rome's Catacombs, the Ancient Appian Way, Piazza Navona and Tartufo

Today we visit the Ancient Appian Way, catacombs, and Piazza Navona with optional shopping. Day 3 Alternative : A visit to Vatican City (technically not in Rome as it is a separate country) to see Saint Peter's Square and Basilica and the Vatican Museums could be taken instead of going to Via Appia Antica. Be sure to book your Vatican Museum tickets or tour in advance.

Via Appia Antica and Catacombs

The  Via Appia Antica , the major road of the ancient Roman Empire, is now a regional park, Parco Regionale Dell'Appia Antica. Take bus 118 or 218 to visit the catacombs of San Callisto, the largest and most impressive of the catacombs . Then walk or rent a bike and ride along the ancient road, lined with tombs, monuments, and churches. A beautiful place for lunch is the Cecilia Metella Restaurant , especially when it is nice and you can sit on the patio.

Tip: You can buy bus tickets at newsstands or tabacchi. Validate the ticket in the little machine when you board the bus. If you say catacombs, someone will tell you when to get off .

Spanish Steps and Shopping

If you have time in the afternoon, go to  Piazza del Popolo and walk along Via del Corso , the main shopping street. Turn onto Via Condotti and follow it to the Spanish Steps. Window-shopping and people-watching is good in this area and won't hurt your budget.

It's fun to try a restaurant you've discovered on your own and after three days of walking around Rome, you've probably found something you'd like to try.

Piazza Navona and Tartufo

In the evening,  Piazza Navona is a great place to continue your people-watching as well as see the three lavish Baroque fountains. The much-touted ice-cream dessert, tartufo , is said to have originated here—you can try it outside at the Tre Scalini for a splurge or go inside and get a tartufo to go for less.

Extra Days: Suggestions for More Places to Go in and Around Rome

If you have more than three days in Rome, there are plenty of things to keep you occupied. Here are a few suggestions for what to see and where to go in Rome:

Vatican City Museums and Saint Peter's Basilica

Vatican City, a tiny independent state, is home to the Pope and the Vatican, Saint Peter's Basilica and the Sistine Chapel, and the extensive Vatican Museums. Vatican City is easy to visit from Rome, plan to spend at least a half day there.

Unique Tours

If you've seen the major sites and want to do something different, try a guided tour that includes touring Rome in a Vintage Fiat 500 or on a Vespa, training to be a gladiator, or visiting the Sistine Chapel after-hours.

Baths of Caracalla

At the foot of the Aventine hill are the monumental ruins of the Baths of Caracalla, used from the Second to Sixth century AD. Taking a bath was a social event for the people of ancient Rome and the huge complex could hold up to 1600 bathers! Besides baths, they held an array of facilities such as a gym, art galleries, gardens, and shops selling food and drinks.

Villa Torlonia

Mussolini's former home is now open to the public. Inside the mansion, which dates from the 19th century, is a museum and the grounds have been made into a public park . 

Rome's Majestic Churches

Visit Rome's Cathedral  San Giovanni Laterno , Saint Peter in Chains with its Michelangelo statue of Moses, Saint Paul Outside the Walls with magnificent mosaics, or Santa Maria in Cosmedin with its Byzantine mosaics and the Boca della Verita. Check out all of the top churches during your visit. 

Ostia Antica

The ruins of the ancient Rome port of Ostia Antica are well worth a visit. Ostia Antica is a huge complex and you can easily spend several hours wandering around the old streets, shops, and houses. You should plan at least a half day for this trip. To get there, take the Metro Line B to Magliana or Piramide and take the Ostia Lido train from there.

A Day at the Beach

There are several beaches that can be visited on a day trip. If you're in Rome in the summer and you want to escape the heat of the city, visit one of these Rome Beaches .

Take a Day Trip from Rome

On a  day trip from Rome , you can visit Tivoli and the Villa d'Este, Orvieto, Frascati, Florence, or Etruscan tombs. Or if you prefer to have someone else make the arrangements, consider a Guided Day Trip from Rome.

Essential Ancient Sites to Visit in Rome

The Top Public Squares (Piazze) in Rome, Italy

The 25 Top Attractions in Rome, Italy

12 Free Things to Do in Rome

10 Unique Guided Tours in Rome

Top 6 Tourist Attractions in Italy

The 14 Best Day Trips from Rome

The Top 23 Things to Do in Italy

Buying Tickets for the Colosseum in Rome

Where to Go in Rome to Take the Best Photos

Visiting Saint Peter's Square in Vatican City

10 Neighborhoods You Need to Know in Rome

Your Trip to Rome: The Complete Guide

Best Rome Restaurants

8 Best Things to Do in Vatican City

Sightseeing in Rome With Kids

How to see the best of Rome in 3 days for first-timers

Have just 3 days in Rome ? Italy ’s capital city is bursting with historical ruins, magnificent architecture and galleries around every corner. There is no lack of things to do in Rome all year round ; we’ve come up with a 3-day itinerary—which includes the must-see sights in Rome—to help first-time visitors explore the city.

Tips for first-time visitors to Rome

Where to stay.

Rome is not a small city—we recommend staying in Centro Storico near the historical center or quaint Trastevere across the River Tiber , both are close to the major tourist attractions. Here are some other suggestions on where to stay in Rome .

Getting around Rome

For short-term visitors, Rome has some tourist passes that offer discounted or free entry to major Rome attractions or free transport tickets, a great and affordable way to navigate the city. Check out the Roma Pass or the Rome Tourist Card to see what works best for your plan.

Here are more tips about Rome to know before you go .

Day 1: Colosseum, Capitoline Hill, Trastevere

Kick off your vacation in Rome by ticking off a spot on your Rome bucket list : the largest amphitheater ever built— the Colosseum . Back then, it could seat up to 50,000 spectators at the gladiator games, stage plays and even public executions. Visit as early as possible as the Colosseum tends to get very crowded later in the day. Buy your tickets online beforehand, or join a skip-the-line guided tour so you don’t waste time queuing.

The Colosseum ticket also includes entry to some of Rome’s most magnificent outdoor ruins right next door. Start from Palatine Hill , the center of Rome’s famous seven hills, where you can take in lovely views of the many excavated ruins from above, and then work your way down to the Roman Forum , a stretch of ruins that were once important government buildings in ancient Rome.

Take a break at the lovely Piazza Venezia , one of Rome’s largest public squares. The piazza is at the foot of the imposing Altar of the Fatherland , also known as the Victor Emmanuel II Monument (Vittoriano), named for the first king of unified Italy in the late 19th century. You can enjoy aerial views of the surrounding area from the top of the monument.

Next to Vittoriano is the Capitoline Hill where you can check out Piazza del Campidoglio , another of Rome’s lovely squares, an odd-shaped space transformed by the famous renaissance artist Michaelangelo in the 16th century.

Campidoglio is also the entrance to the Capitoline Museum , considered one of the oldest museums in the world dating back to the 15th century and filled with 20 galleries worth of priceless artifacts and artwork.

Wind down after a full day of sightseeing by heading towards the River Tiber . Walk through the Ghetto Ebraico on the way, one of the oldest Jewish quarters in all of Europe and home to the Great Synagogue Tempio Maggiore and the Jewish Museum .

Along the river, enjoy the view of Isola Tiberina , the little boat-shaped island. During summer evenings, there are many pop up bars and stalls along the river banks and on the island. For more food options, cross some of Rome ’s oldest bridges to Trastevere which has lots of trattorias and osterias for any budget. Alternatively, take a food tour for some tips on what to eat in Rome over the next two days.

Day 2: Villa Borghese, Centro Storico

Start your second day at one of Rome ’s cultural gems, the Villa Borghese . This massive compound is home to the Galleria Borghese , a historical art museum filled with sculptures, paintings and other relics dating back to the 16th and 17th centuries. It’s a crowd puller, so be sure to book tickets early or consider a skip-the-line tour .

Don’t miss out on the Gardens of the Villa Borghese —sprawling grounds that you can explore for free. There are several smaller museums with free entry within the gardens worth checking out, too.

Exit the Porta Pinciana and head towards the Piazza di Spagna where the famous Spanish Steps are. While you can’t sit on the steps anymore due to preservation reasons, you can still climb up to the Trinità dei Monti church at the top or admire the lovely Baroque style Fontana della Barcaccia at its base.

Walk down the posh luxury shopping streets Via Condotti and Via del Corso to see the historical highlights of Centro Storico. Check out the Marcus Aurelias column from A.D. 193 standing tall at Piazza Colonna , the world-famous Trevi Fountain where you can toss a coin over your shoulder to guarantee your return to Rome , the quaint Church of St. Ignatius Loyola with its illusory ceiling frescos, and of course the top-rated Pantheon with a truly spectacular domed ceiling.

Spend your evening at Piazza Navona , a bustling Baroque square—built on the remains of an ancient stadium—filled with fountains and sculptures. It’s a great spot to catch the sunset in Rome . A short distance away is Campo di Fiori , the only square in Rome without a church. While it’s home to a famous market during the day selling fresh produce and flowers, nightfall is when it comes alive with its many bars and restaurants.

Day 3: Vatican City, Prati

Make a beeline to the Vatican City , one of the smallest countries in the world that exists entirely within the city of Rome . The Vatican City Museums are extremely popular—go early in the morning to avoid long lines and crowds. Admire the immense collection of artworks amassed by the Catholic Church through the centuries and the famous Sistine Chapel . You can even take an exclusive early morning tour of the museums before they open to the public to save yourself some time.

Head over to St. Peter’s Square , an impressive piazza designed by renowned Italian architect Gian Lorenzo Bernini. Lined all around with Doric colonnades with an ancient Egyptian obelisk in its center, the square is home to the Renaissance-style church St. Peter’s Basilica , the largest Christian church still standing today.

You can also head up to the cupola or dome of the church, which is also the tallest in the world at roughly 448 feet high (136m), and enjoy panoramic views of St. Peter’s Square and Rome from up high.

After that, head to the star-shaped Sant Angelo Castle Museum in the neighboring Borgo district. It was built as a mausoleum for Roman emperor Hadrian and famous for its linked tunnel to the Vatican used as an escape route. The bridges in front of the castle are a great spot for some postcard-worthy shots in Rome .

Spend your last few hours in Rome exploring Prati , an upscale neighborhood where you can do some shopping at the high-end boutiques along the Via Cola di Rienzo or plonk yourself at the numerous bars and restaurants in this area. A sunset food tour around the Prati district will give you a taste of some of the best food and wine the district has to offer.

Recommended tours and activities

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Culture & History , Italy , Rome , Seven Wonders of the World , Travel Guides , UNESCO World Heritage Sights · January 8, 2024

A Perfect 3 Days in Rome, Italy Itinerary with Pro Tips!

Last Updated on May 19, 2024 by Tori Pines

Rome is known as the “Eternal City” and I could certainly spend eternity there. In fact I would love to live in this fabulous bustling city in the heart of Italy. But most of us only have 3 days in Rome, Italy during our European vacation.

And honestly 3 days is probably the perfect amount of time to get a taste of the city and see the most important sights. So book your flights, pick the perfect hotel and follow my 3 day Rome itinerary while you’re here in my favorite city. 

Our first trip to Rome was supposed to be in 2020, so as you can imagine, that trip did not happen. The bright side to that meant I had two years to plan our Italy itinerary instead of just one. So I’ve considered all the options, researched all the sights, found the best tours and read menus for all of the best restaurants. I’ll save you lots of time and tell you exactly how you should spend your 3 days in Rome!

This post may contain affiliate links for activities, destinations and products that I love, and think you will too!

3 Days in Rome Map

Table of Contents

1. stop at a bar (cafe), 2. tour the colosseum, 3. explore the roman forum and palatine hill, 4. have lunch at pane e salame, 5. take a walking tour, 6. get a granita di caffe, 7. take a siesta, 8. aperitivo at the court, 9. dinner at rosciolis, 1. wake up early to see the trevi fountain, 2. vatican for breakfast.

• 3. St. Peter’s Basilica

4. Market for Lunch

5. siesta time, 6. food tour, 7. explore rome at night, 1. coffee and a croissant, 2. take a cooking class, 3. explore the remaining sights around rome, 4. enjoy an all you can eat appetizer buffet, 5. dinner in trastevere, 6. wander the streets with gelato, things to know about 3 days in rome, italy, packing list for 3 days in rome, italy.

Day 1 of 3 days in Rome, Italy

Start off your 3 days in Rome by exploring the historic city center . This area is filled with some of the most famous sights . You’ll learn tons of history, take stunning pictures and eat some incredible food along the way.

Leave your hotel bright and early, I recommend getting out by 8am. Walk to the nearest bar and order “Un cappuccino por favore!” That was my favorite thing to say in Italian. They call cafes “bars” in Italy which can be slightly confusing. Typically they will be open for breakfast and then again serving drinks in the evening.

You’ll stand at the counter drinking a coffee and eating a freshly made pastry ; chocolate croissants are my favorite! But don’t sit down or you will be charged a lot more. I have more tips like this in my guide on all the things you need to know about Rome .

Walk to the Colosseum to start off your exploration of the Eternal City. Be sure to buy tickets in advance, and get the earliest time slot available. Typically that is 9am. You can either buy tickets directly through the Colosseum’s website or buy a guided tour . We did not book the tour and I definitely regret that. We would have learned so much more with a guide. If you have the money in your budget to book a tour, do it!!

Plan to spend about an hour here before continuing on. Be sure to take plenty of pictures, it is a Wonder of the World after all!

The ticket to the Colosseum will also include access to the Roman Forum & Palatine Hill, and you cannot skip out on this part! Sure, the Colosseum is what everyone shows in the photos, but the Roman Forum is so much more fun to explore!

The Roman Forum is the old town where the Romans lived thousands of years ago. Some of these buildings still stand today and the rubble for the others are there too. There is so much to learn here and it shows a lot about what life was like back then. If you do book a tour , make sure to get one that includes the Roman Forum as well, because there is so much to learn here.

Be sure to walk up the steps to Palatine Hill for the epic views over the forum with the Colosseum in the background…hello Christmas card photo!!

Pro Tip: If you do not want to spend the money on the tour, you can at least listen to the free Rick Steves audio tour as you walk around both the Colosseum and the Roman Forum. It is not nearly as engaging as an in person tour guide, but is WAY better than no guide at all! So download it to your phone and bring along some headphones!

After all of this walking and learning you are going to be hungry, so walk about 15 minutes to an awesome lunch spot called Pane e Salame . It’s a little restaurant that serves fresh delicious meats and cheeses. Get a large charcuterie tray to share and try some of their freshly made sandwiches as well. And don’t forget to order an Aperol Spritz to wash it all down.

We adored this spot and cannot wait to return soon. The meats, cheeses, spreads and breads were all fresh and delicious. While you can get a charcuterie at home, the ones here in Italy are much more authentic and unique.

Venice and the northern cities in Italy might be known for their finger food called cicchetti, Rome has some awesome charcuterie style finger foods!

But note, this spot will get busy! So head here immediately after your tour of the Forum to make sure you get a table quickly. And the price? Lunch here for two was about 30 Euros, but we ordered a lot of food so we could try it all. And it ended up being one of our favorite restaurants during our 3 days in Rome.

Once you’ve recharged, head back out on the cobblestone streets and explore more of the historic center by taking the Rick Steves free Audio Tour of the historic center. It will last about an hour and you will get to see most of the sights in the city. Make sure you download the tour in advance onto your phone and bring headphones with you!

You’ll get to visit Campo de’ Fiori, Piazza Navona , the Trevi Fountain , the Spanish Steps and then my favorite, the Pantheon . When you get to the Pantheon, there’s another free Rick Steves Audio tour that you can listen to as well!

Pro Tip: These spots will be packed with tourists right now since it’s the afternoon. Wake up super early one morning before your other adventures to get pictures like the ones above without tourists in them! I was there around 7am to get these photos! It was 10000% worth the early wake up call!

As of 2023, the Pantheon now charges 5 euros to enter. The building doesn’t have a ton to see inside, but I still highly recommend you pay to enter. The Pantheon is by far my favorite place in Rome, it is so much larger and more breathtaking than it appears in pictures. It literally took my breath away, and will definitely be one of your favorite things you see during your 3 days in Rome.

While you’re at the Pantheon be sure to stop at the nearby cafe called La Casa del Caffe Tazza d Oro . It is literally steps from the Pantheon and serves drinks and pastries, but what you really want to stop for is their delicious Granita di Caffe. It’s a frozen coffee treat topped with whipped cream.

It’s the perfect treat if it’s hot out and gives you the little caffeine boost to keep exploring Rome.

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You might not often see this as a recommendation for an itinerary in Italy, but I like to keep it real and honest with you! One of the things that is SO important for us during our time in Italy is taking a break in the afternoon to rest and recover . There is so much to see and do during your 3 days in Rome, so you’ll likely be exhausted.

Siesta is the practice of taking a break in the afternoon to rest and is a huge practice in Italy. This can mean actually taking a nap, or it can mean to just sit down for a while to rest and recharge. You can head back to the room at this point to change for dinner as well. I promise, you will thank me for encouraging you to schedule this time into your itinerary!

In Rome and all of Italy, many businesses take a siesta, so you will find them closed for a few hours in the afternoon. My husband is more of a “spend the week chilling on the beach” kind of person so he loves the fact that Italians encourage siestas.

While siestas are definitely a major part of Rome’s culture, equally as important is the afternoon ritual of Aperitivo . It’s basically the Italian version of happy hour. Romans will gather after work at a bar for drinks and light snacks. The idea is that you are preparing your stomach for dinner.

Oftentimes, if you buy a drink then the snacks come for free. Usually this just means little bowls of nuts and crackers they bring to your table, but at some places they have full buffets full of appetizers.

So you must partake in this important Italian practice as well…when in Rome, right?

My favorite place to recommend for Aperitivo is The Court . It’s located on the roof of a hotel just steps from the Colosseum and the views are epic. But be warned, you will pay extra for these views. The drinks are about 30 euros each but they do come with a nice spread of snacks to enjoy. 

It’s stunning and for many a once in a lifetime opportunity, so I recommend you splurge!

And finally, the most important part of the day, dinner. And not only any dinner, an incredible, delicious, fresh, Italian dinner.

When in Rome , it’s important that you only eat good food. And while you might think that since you’re in Italy every restaurant will have good food, it’s unfortunately just not true. There’s tons of tourist spots that are horrible (more on that below).

So for your first dinner during your 3 days in Rome, plan to eat at the famous Roscioli Salumeria . They have a few different types of restaurants but this is their nice sit down spot. Not only is it recommended all over travel blogs, it’s also highly recommended by some big names. Rome local Katie Parla , cookbook author and podcaster ( Gola ) is a big fan. This restaurant was also featured on Stanley Tucci’s show Searching for Italy .

Quick Plug: The podcast is amazing and will 100% have you drooling all the way to Italy. So give it a listen and get so excited for your upcoming 3 days in Rome.

The menu is pretty classic Roman cuisine. It includes the four Roman pasta dishes: Carbonara, Cacio e Pepe, Amatriciana and alla Gricia, along with a variety of additional options. Everything was super fresh and homemade and the service was awesome. So while this spot has become popular to tourists (due its constant recommendations by bloggers like me) it has remained super authentic! But be sure to make a reservation as you’ll have basically no chance of eating here without one. 

How to spot a tourist restaurant: first and foremost avoid any restaurants close to tourist spots. If it’s right next to the Trevi Fountain, it’s going to be bad. Second, if someone is standing outside of the restaurant encouraging you to come in, run away quickly, it’s going to be bad. And finally, if there’s photos on the menu it’s usually bad. This means it’s geared towards people who don’t speak Italian – aka tourists. 

How to spot a great restaurant that you should visit during your 3 days in Rome? If the menu is only written in Italian that means mostly locals eat there. Also if they open late, like 8pm then that means it’s a local spot and bound to be great. And of course if it’s hidden down a back alley away from the tourist attractions then it’s likely a good spot!

Day 2 of 3 days in Rome, Italy

You’ll spend most of day two of your three days in Rome actually not in Rome, or Italy for that matter. Leave Italy for a few hours by walking over to Vatican City, the smallest country in the world. 

Get out of your accommodation by 6:45am and head straight for the Trevi Fountain. If you’re there around 7am, you’re likely to score stunning pictures that look like you own the place! Look at the shots I got at 7am!!

Now, there will be some people there, but it will be NOTHING compared to shat you’ll see the rest of the day. Waking up early is so worth it so get some time to admire this beautiful spot and get some perfect photos.

And while you’re up, walk just a few blocks to the pantheon to get some photos there. It’s my favorite picture from my entire trip.

Most of your time in Vatican City will be spent exploring the Vatican Museums. It’s a huge collection of buildings packed full of ancient artifacts and art . But it gets BUSY. Literally every day of the week, it doesn’t matter, it’s always packed. 

There’s a few ways around the crazy crowds but they all involve buying a special ticket outside of normal operating hours. It’s easier than you may think! There’s early morning tours, evening tours, or my personal recommendation, buying the Breakfast at the Vatican ticket, all purchased directly through the museum. 

For roughly 20 euros more per person than the regular ticket, they include a breakfast as well. You’ll eat right in the courtyard inside the museum and get earlier access to the property, you’ll be some of the first few people to enter! We literally had entire galleries to ourselves as we explored and that is not the normal experience. Buy tickets like this directly through the Vatican’s website , not a third party.

Now let me say, the breakfast was nothing special. We honestly didn’t like it that much. It’s on par with a hotel free breakfast…but it was still SO worth it for the early entrance! But if you don’t want to book the breakfast, at minimum book the absolute earliest time slot of the day that you can. An early wake up call will 100% be worth it!

You can also book guided tours of the Vatican Museums to help you learn more and actually absorb what you are looking at. There are many tour options , but again, book the earliest time slot for the best experience.

I highly recommend these tours because you get a lot more out of your trip. That being said, we saved some money here and chose not to book a tour. We are not the biggest museum people and weren’t sure we would have the attention span. Instead we used Rick Steves’ free audio tour again and this one was probably the best one of all! We listened to every word and learned so much. It is a great pace and you finish the museum in about 2 hours (with breaks in between rooms). It is an awesome alternative if you want to save money or aren’t the biggest history buffs.

3. St. Peter’s Basilica

After you finish up at the museums you’ll walk to the front of Vatican City to the massive St. Peter’s Square. It’s here that you’ll jump in line to go into St. Peter’s Basilica. There’s no cost to enter and no reservations available.

Whether you’re religious or not, this ginormous church is worth waiting in line to see. The line can get incredibly long, often looping around the square several times. We waited about 45 minutes but I have heard about waits as long as 2 or 3 hours. But don’t let that scare you, as long as you get there in the morning you should be okay.

And if you weren’t able to snag a reservation for the museums by 8 or 9am, then come here first instead to avoid some of the wait!

Once you make it through the line, past security and into the basilica , you get to explore at your own pace. There’s tons of art to admire, so spend as long as you’d like. Or until you’re starving for lunch!

Pro Tip: To enter this church (and all others in the country) you must have your shoulders and knees covered. This means long pants or dresses and a shawl around your shoulders. I highly recommend bringing a shawl like this in your bag throughout your trip. You never know when you’ll happen upon a gorgeous church that you want to pop into!

Now this may seem a bit inconvenient, but I highly recommend that you hop in a cab to cross the city to the neighborhood of Testaccio. It’s not that far, just across the bridge from Trastevere, but definitely not walkable from Vatican City. Here you’ll want to check out the Testaccio Market for some of the best lunch options in the city!

You’ll mostly find locals here doing their grocery shopping or picking up a quick meal for lunch. And wherever the locals are, you know it will be delicious! In this market I highly recommend you get pizza from Casa Manco . I still dream about their potato pizza, but all of the flavors are fabulous. Some of the best pizza I’ve had in Italy!

There’s plenty of other great stalls to choose from in the market, so pick a few and try a variety of things!

If you really don’t like the idea of crossing town, then there’s plenty of places to eat closer to the Vatican. The most popular is the famous Pizzarium , by Gabriele Bonci. It’s recommended left and right but honestly we didn’t really like it. Maybe we just ordered poorly though.

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And just like that the day has slipped away and you are probably exhausted by now from all of the walking and eating. So hop back to your hotel room and rest for a bit, then get ready to head out in the evening.

Since the food in Rome is nothing short of exceptional, and there are so many traditional dishes to try, you must spend the evening on a food tour trying the Roman classics!

There’s tons of different food tours to choose from around the city and honestly you can’t go wrong. But I would highly recommend picking one that takes you through Trastevere, arguably the best neighborhood in Rome. And while you’re here you MUST stop at Trapizzino …they are the best thing I ate in Rome. Ugh so so yummy.

We took a food tour with the incredible Katie Parla . She’s a Rome-based cookbook author, food tour guide, podcast host and guest on all the shows about Rome. She’s kind of a big deal. So I was ecstatic to find out she was available while we were in town! And I was also willing to dish out the big bucks. A tour with her is not cheap, but to me I was paying for the experience of touring with her on top of the food tour itself.

Listen to her podcast Gola as you get excited for your trip to Rome. You’ll learn so much about Italy’s food culture and be drooling all the way to Italy.

Alternatively, book one of these much cheaper food tours that explore Trastevere and take you around to several different restaurants to taste authentic Roman cuisine.

Since the food tour will end pretty early, and you’ll be way too stuffed for dinner, spend the evening exploring the city at night. Walk along the Tiber River, if you’re there during the summer you’ll be lucky enough you see the night market! The vendors set up along the river playing music and selling items and food.

Walk by the Colosseum, there’s something so special about that place lit up at night.

Head to a bar, get a drink somewhere where you find locals hanging out. And of course, end the exploring with gelato . One of the best places in Rome for gelato is called Gelateria La Romana . There’s a few locations, one near Piazza Navona and another north, in the Prati neighborhood.

Day 3 of 3 days in Rome, Italy

Start off the day at a nearby bar again before you start your activities for the day. Try to look for one where the locals are hanging out!

Let’s be honest, you could return home from italy with a bunch of trinkets and stuff to sit around your home and collect dust (I mean I do buy some things while traveling too) or you could return home with a knowledge of how to cook some of these incredible Italian dishes you’ve been trying.

It’s like teaching someone to fish. Ya know what I mean?

Anyways, no matter where you spend your time in Italy, I HIGHLY recommend taking a cooking class while you are there. Not only is it tons of fun and a super relaxing thing to do in Rome , but you’ll also learn a lot and take these new skills home with you to your kitchen.

Now in all honesty, I think the best food in all of Italy is in Tuscany. Everything I have ever had in that region, in all of the towns near Florence , is hands-down phenomenal. So if you plan to visit Tuscany , plan to take a cooking class there instead…or in addition to!! We did one during our Sunday in Florence and the pasta we made was the best pasta from our whole trip!

But Rome’s food is amazing too so it is the next best option.

Now there’s two main options when it comes to cooking classes. Either you take one somewhere inside the city for a few hours like this cooking class . Or you take a day trip to the countryside and take a cooking class there. Either are good options but will definitely depend on what else you have planned for the trip.

Going to spend a few days in the countryside after your time in Rome? Then stay in the city for a cooking class like this . But if you don’t have any time planned in say Tuscany or Umbria, then I would definitely recommend you take your cooking class in the countryside instead. This class would be an awesome option for that.

You’ll get to eat all the food you make, so no need to plan a lunch for today.

If you chose to stay in the city for the cooking class, then you’ll have the second half of the day to explore the rest of Rome. If you chose the full day tour through the countryside then you’ll have to skip this part.

Pick a few of the following famous sights that you want to see this afternoon!

Villa Borghese : The most famous spot on the list of activities for this afternoon would be the Villa Borghese. The property is located on the northeastern side of the city just past the Spanish Steps. A large majority of the property is made up of beautiful gardens.

Any Lizzie McGuire fans out there? Me too, duh! You might remember her and Paulo exploring the gardens in the movie!

You might want to come here just to explore the gardens, which are totally free! While you’re there you can rent a rowboat at the pond, or drink a cappuccino at one of the cafes.

However, there’s also the Borghese Gallery here too. It’s the best art gallery in Rome and is home to pieces from famous artists like Raphael and Bernini.

Altare della Patria : You’ll see this building whether you want to or not, it’s very much in the center of the city and on your way to the Colosseum. We passed by several times by accident! It’s made fun of by locals and referred to as the “wedding cake” building because it’s bright white and doesn’t exactly fit in with the other architecture in the city.

But honestly I kind of liked it. It’s grand and beautiful ! And you can pay a few euros to go to the roof for stunning views over the Roman Forum and the rest of the city.

The Knights of Malta Keyhole : It’s a keyhole in a door that points right towards St. Peter’s Basilica. Wait in line to get a glimpse through this famous keyhole. The Mouth of Truth : This is a carving of a god on the side of a church. It’s said that if you stick your hand in the mouth you have to tell the truth or it will bite off the hand of any liars. It might be a little silly, but it was made popular after the scene from the movie Roman Holiday . Castel Sant’Angelo : Originally built as a tomb for Roman Emperor Hadrian, it has since been used as a military fortress, the papal residence and a prison. But today this round and recognizable building is a museum. You can visit the museum or just admire it from the famous bridge that leads up to the front.

As I mentioned on day one, aperitivo is a big deal in Rome. Almost every bar will serve light snacks with your drink, but a select few will provide a large display of appetizers at no additional cost! One of these places is Freni e Frizioni in Trastevere .

Head here as soon as they open to fill up on delicious apps with an Aperol Spritz, it is your last night in Rome after all, so you deserve it.

Trastevere is where the locals eat, so plan to enjoy a delicious, authentic Italian meal in this neighborhood tonight. One of the most famous spots is Da Enzo al 29 . Just be prepared to wait in line for a table, because this place is popular.

We got there before they opened and waited in line for about an hour. But we made friends with the sweet couple in line in front of us and ended up sharing a table with them. It was so fun and kind of made us feel like we knew people while 5,000 miles from home.

If you still have room in your stomachs, then head to Otaleg for gelato. It’s some of the best in the city. Then wander the beautiful cobblestone streets as you wander back to your hotel for the last of your 3 nights in Rome.

Oh, and make sure to throw a coin over your shoulder into the Trevi Fountain to ensure that you’ll return again soon.

There are so many important tips to learn before you visit Rome for the first time. I have an entire guide sharing my favorite secrets and tips about Rome , so be sure to read that for all of the information you’ll need for your 3 days in Rome!

But here’s a quick overview of my top tips :

• You will do SO much walking during your 3 days in Rome, so wear comfortable shoes ! However, the Italians do like to dress nice so if you want to fit in (which you definitely should want to) then dress cute but comfortable. I love cute flowy dresses and these travel pants from Kuhl .
• Bring a reusable water bottle with you. I recommend a collapsible one to save space and is easy to carry around! Rome has free public water fountains all around the city that are safe, cold and taste great. Plus the fountains are beautiful!
• The city is almost completely walkable so plan to walk as much as you can. However if you get tired, look for a taxi stand and hop in a taxi . You’ll get where you need to go for just a few euros.
• Say “no, grazie” to everyone on the street. There will be lots of people in the touristy areas trying to talk you into buying something. Do not linger, just say no quickly and walk away. The city is very safe, but these people can be pushy and annoying if you linger!
• Never settle for bad food. There is so much incredible food in Italy, but there’s bad tourist restaurants too. Plan out all of your meals in advance and always have backup options. That way if you’re tired and starving you don’t have to settle for the first place you happen upon.
• While I absolutely ADORE Rome, there’s so much more to see in Italy. So get out and explore the country after your 3 days in Rome. If possible, plan to stay for at least 2 weeks in Italy . I recommend visiting the Amalfi Coast, including the island of Capri , Tuscany, including a stop in Saturnia for the hot springs, and a stop in San Gimignano for the world’s best gelato and Venice, including a visit to Burano !

Where to stay for 3 days in Rome, Italy

There are a million options for places to stay in Rome that it gets overwhelming. We have stayed at a few different spots in Rome and there’s benefits for each place! Here’s some I recommend.

Chiara’s place at Pantheon : If you’re interested in staying in a vacation rental, this is your place! A great price, amazing reviews and is right next to the Pantheon…which in my opinion is the absolute best location in Rome!

Domus 21 Luxury Suites : Another very central location, perfect for walking everywhere! The rooms are a beautiful mix of old and new.

A Trastevere da M.E. : If you want the most authentic, local experience while still being close to everything, you need to stay in Trastevere! Plus, it’s where most of the best food is located. Win-win! This hotel is simple and modern and has great reviews.

The Pantheon Iconic Rome Hotel : We stayed here for a night and wished we had stayed longer…it was amazing and in the most incredible location! It’s a Marriott property which is great for those racking up their points!

Cosmopolita Hotel Rome : This Hilton brand hotel is located in a very central location. It’s always nice to stay in big brand hotels because you pretty much know what you’re paying for and can rely on cleanliness and comfort!

The St. Regis Rome : We stayed here several nights and adored this hotel purely for the glitz and glamor. It is a stunning hotel, the rooms are incredible and the service was top-notch! The location is not super ideal though. It’s really close to the train station which is nice, but still in a nice area of town. But it’s quite a walk to get to all of the sights and best restaurants.

Packing for a trip to Italy is no easy feat. I have an entire guide dedicated to the most important things you need to pack for Italy . But here’s a quick list of the things you’ll need for 3 days in Rome.

• Comfortable shoes
• Lightweight travel clothes
• Water bottle
• Anti-theft purse
• Bluetooth headphones
• Outlet converter
• International phone plan
• High quality luggage

And with that, you are totally ready for spending 3 days in Rome, the Eternal City. It’s easily my favorite city in Italy and I already cannot wait to return again.

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I've been a tour guide in Rome for 16 years. Here are 5 tourist attractions that are worth it and 5 you can skip.

Posted: May 28, 2024 | Last updated: May 28, 2024

• After 16 years of working as a tour guide in Rome , I've figured out the best attractions.
• I always recommend visiting the Park of the Aqueducts and the  Ostia Antica archeological site.
• But I think the Colosseum, Trevi Fountain, and Mouth of Truth attractions are overcrowded. 

Rome is pretty crowded — the city welcomed a record-breaking 35 million tourists in 2023. Any gorgeous photos you see of breathtaking and empty piazzas were likely taken long before most people have woken up.

As a seasoned Roman tour guide for the past 16 years, I would never say certain attractions have no merit. But after years of interacting with travelers , I understand that people want alternatives.

Luckily, Rome has priceless art and artifacts around every corner.

Here are five popular attractions that are worth visiting, and five you might want to skip.

The Capitoline Museums offer plenty of art and archeological finds.

Located on Capitoline Hill, the Capitoline Museums offer a treasure trove of ancient Roman art and artifacts.

Despite their historical significance as some of the oldest public museums in the world , they're often overlooked by tourists.

The well-curated collections include masterpieces by renowned artists like Michelangelo and Caravaggio, ancient bronzes, and frescoes. It's a must-visit for any art enthusiast seeking a quieter, more intimate experience.

Don't miss the Basilica di San Giovanni in Laterano.

As one of Rome's four major basilicas, San Giovanni in Laterano (also known as the Archbasilica of St. John Lateran) boasts a stunning display of baroque architecture and intricate frescoes.

It may not be as famous as some of Rome's other churches, but its grandeur and historical importance as the oldest papal basilica in the city make it a hidden gem worth exploring.

The Park of the Aqueducts is beautiful and full of history.

Escape the crowds and stagnant air of the city center and venture into a tranquil Park of the Aqueducts (Parco degli Acquedotti).

Here, you'll see towering arches of 11 aqueducts that once carried water to the heart of ancient Rome. It's a perfect spot for a leisurely stroll on the ancient Latin Road or a picnic away from the crowds.

The attraction also offers a unique perspective on the ingenuity of Roman engineering.

There's incredible art in the Basilica of Sant’Agostino.

Art lovers shouldn't miss the exquisite "Madonna dei Pellegrini" housed within the Cavalletti Chapel at Basilica di Sant'Agostino in Campo Marzio.

The dramatic interplay of light and shadow in Caravaggio's painting comes alive in the serene church, providing a captivating glimpse into the artist's unparalleled talent and revolutionary style.

A Roman vacation isn't complete without a trip to Ostia Antica.

Step back in time and explore the remarkably well-preserved ruins of Ostia Antica, Rome's ancient seaport.

The archaeological site offers a quieter and less time-consuming alternative to the crowds of Pompeii a little farther south. Visitors can wander through ancient streets, houses, and Roman theaters in a more peaceful setting than the Roman Forum.

Plus, you can enjoy a seafood lunch overlooking the Tyrrhenian Sea after your visit .

On the other hand, the Vatican Museums are overcrowded.

Although the Vatican Museums are undeniably home to some of the world's most renowned art collections, they're almost always swarming with tourists.

The crowds and long queues can detract from your overall experience. In peak season , the Vatican easily sees 20,000 to 30,000 visitors a day.

It's virtually impossible to admire the art as you're shuttled through each gallery until everyone spills into the Sistine Chapel . Even the bathroom lines can be a 30-minute wait.

Unless you are willing to spend a lot of money on an official tour before the museums are open to the public or visit in the offseason , you should consider alternative attractions.

You can get a good view of the Colosseum without going inside.

As iconic as it may be, the Colosseum can be overwhelming, particularly during peak tourist seasons .

Its historical significance is undeniable, but exploring the ancient amphitheater can be a challenge among the swarms of visitors.

Acquiring tickets is also tricky. We often have to time our online purchases perfectly, refreshing the page in 10-minute intervals. Tickets sell out quickly and are sometimes resold by large companies.

Consider alternative viewpoints or guided tours for a more personalized experience. I also like taking in the exterior around 9 a.m. or in the evening when it lights up.

Walking the Appian Way might be a letdown.

The Appian Way is significant in Roman history as the oldest and most important road. But its appeal may be lost on the average tourist.

Nowadays, there are loads of bike and bus tours to the Catacombs along the road — making it crowded — and public transport there is difficult.

I suggest visiting the Park of the Aqueducts instead. It's an easy metro ride from Termini Station and offers a glimpse into what the Roman countryside would've been like.

Everyone wants a photo in front of the Trevi Fountain — and that's the problem.

Although undeniably one of Rome's most famous landmarks , the Trevi Fountain is often teeming with tourists jostling for the perfect selfie.

The sheer volume of visitors can detract from the fountain's beauty and significance, making it challenging to appreciate it in peace.

If you insist on throwing a coin in, go as early in the morning as possible — otherwise, it's a zoo.

I wouldn't wait in line for the Mouth of Truth.

Made famous by its appearance in classic films like "Roman Holiday," the Mouth of Truth may not live up to the hype for many visitors.

According to medieval legend, the stone mask will bite off the hand of any liar who enters its mouth, which has made it popular with tourists.

But the brief photo opportunity doesn't justify the long queues. Plus, it was probably just used as a drain cover in the Temple of Hercules.

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25 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Italy

Written by Barbara Radcliffe Rogers Updated Aug 17, 2023

As the birthplace of the Roman Empire and the Renaissance, it's not surprising that Italy should be so rich in masterpieces of art and architecture, or that it should have more UNESCO World Heritage cultural sites than any other country in the world .

But Italy's top attractions for tourists are not all art and architecture; the country is blessed with lakes, mountains, and a dramatic coastline that give it outstanding natural attractions, as well. You could plan an entire itinerary inspired by a single interest, from Renaissance art to hiking, but most first-time visitors like to get a sampling of the best Italy offers in several different kinds of experiences.

The attractions that follow show off Italy's art, architecture, stunning landscapes, and history, as well as places to relax and enjoy Italian life.

1. Colosseum, Rome

2. florence duomo santa maria del fiore, 3. the grand canal in venice, 4. leaning tower of pisa, 5. vatican city: basilica of st. peter, sistine chapel & vatican museums, 6. the uffizi gallery in florence, 7. cinque terre, 8. lake como, 9. pantheon, 10. trevi fountain, rome, 11. amalfi coast, 12. st. mark's basilica and doge's palace, 13. verona's roman arena and historic center, 14. pompeii and mount vesuvius, 15. roman forum, 16. the valley of temples in agrigento, sicily, 17. milan duomo, 19. rialto bridge, venice, 20. st. francis basilica (basilica di san francesco), assisi, 21. piazza del campo and duomo, siena, 22. strada delle dolomiti (dolomite road), 23. san vitale and byzantine mosaics, ravenna, 24. portofino, liguria, 25. costa sud and costa verde beaches, sardinia.

This huge amphitheater, the largest of its kind ever built by the Roman Empire and the largest of their constructions to survive, remained a model for sports facilities right up to modern times. Built by Vespasian in 72 CE and enlarged by the addition of a fourth story by his son, Titus, the Colosseum was a venue for public spectacles and shows - even mock sea battles.

A wooden floor that was 83 by 48 meters covered two additional underground stories with tunnels, rooms, cells, and passages that provided space for gladiators, workers, wild animals, and storage.

Today, the structure stands in stark contrast to the modern development that surrounds it and is a prominent reminder of ancient times and the extensive history of Rome.

Tip to parents: The Colosseum is one of the most popular places for families in Rome , and you can make a visit even more memorable for your kids by enrolling them in a gladiator lesson. They (and you) can don replica gladiator helmets and shields and learn swordplay with wooden swords.

Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Rome

Regarded as one of the finest cathedrals in the world, the Duomo Santa Maria del Fiore, or the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore , dominates the Florence skyline. The cathedral was built between the 13th and 15th centuries, with the most famous piece being the extraordinary dome , completed by Filippo Brunelleschi in 1434.

The cathedral's bell tower stands close beside the cathedral in Piazza del Duomo, covered in the same patterned marble typical of Tuscan Romanesque architecture.

Designed by Giotto, the campanile stands 82 meters tall, and you can climb the 414 steps up to a viewing platform with fantastic views of the city and the dome.

Opposite the Duomo is a magnificent baptistery , famed for its bronze paneled doors by Lorenzo Ghiberti. To see the original, exquisitely crafted panels, which have been replaced by exact replicas to protect the originals from weathering, visit the Museo dell'Opera del Duomo , the cathedral museum.

Author's Tips: As is true of many cathedrals in Italy, tourists wearing shorts or tank tops will not be admitted. You can climb the more than 450 steep steps to the top of the dome, inside the dark, narrow space between the inner and outer shells. While climbing, although there is a barrier, you are looking down more than 40 meters into the church below. I've never thought the view was worth it.

Giotto's bell tower has almost as many steps, but they are in a more conventional stairway setting.

Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Florence

A gondola ride through the canals of Venice is a tradition that travelers have been enjoying for centuries. Venice is a city of islands, and the canals have long been the city's main streets, connected by a labyrinth of narrow passageways.

The Grand Canal is the largest and most famous of these waterways, cutting a wide S-shaped route through the city. Along its sides are the grandest of the palaces once owned by the wealthiest and most powerful families of the Venetian Republic. The best way to see many of the grand palaces, whose fronts face the water, is from a Vaporetto ride along the Grand Canal.

Be sure your gondola ride - and your sightseeing explorations on foot - include some of the more atmospheric smaller canals, lined by old buildings that have remained relatively unchanged for hundreds of years.

Author's Tip: For a uniquely Venetian experience, cross the Grand Canal as the locals do when they are between bridges, on a small gondola called a traghetto. Stripped of decoration and seating, these little boats scuttle back and forth between Ca' Rezzonico and San Samuel, between the San Angelo and San Toma vaporetto stops, and several other points, including one not far from St. Mark's Square.

Although Venetians stand during the crossing, you can sit on one of the narrow benches if you feel uneasy. The small fare saves long walks between bridges.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Venice

The Leaning Tower of Pisa (La Torre Pendente) is just one of many attractions in the city of Pisa , one whose world fame comes not from the considerable elegance of its design, but from a flaw. Work began on the tower in the 1100s, and the sinking, which led to the lean, began by the time the tower reached the third story.

Leaning more and more over the centuries, before restoration work in the 1990s, it was predicted to topple over by the year 2000. Today, visitors can climb up the stairs of the tower for a fabulous view over the city.

The Leaning Tower stands on the Piazza dei Miracoli, a setting it shares with the beautiful Romanesque Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta and a round freestanding baptistery. Each of these features outstanding works of medieval stone carving.

Author's Tip: For the best view of the Leaning Tower, take advantage of the admission to the Museo dell'Opera del Duomo (Cathedral Museum), included in your ticket to the cathedral. The large windows on the upper floor overlook the tower; while in the museum, don't miss seeing the priceless masterpieces of silver and gold work from the cathedral's treasury.

The Vatican is home to some of the world's most priceless art and art collections. The centerpiece is the great Basilica of St. Peter, with the tomb of St. Peter and one of Michelangelo's most poignant works, the Pieta .

Outside is St. Peter's Square, where the Pope addresses followers. Because Vatican City has so many places to visit, you could easily spend a day or more here.

The walls and ceilings of the Sistine Chapel are covered with frescoes by Michelangelo, depicting the creation as described in the Book of Genesis, with scenes that include separating light and darkness, creating Adam and Eve, continuing through the story of Noah and other Biblical events, concluding with the powerful Last Judgement.

After you've seen the interior of the basilica and the Sistine Chapel, if you have any energy left for more sightseeing, tour the magnificent Papal Apartments in the Palace of the Vatican to see the magnificent series of frescoes by Raphael. Like Michelangelo's frescoes in the Sistine Chapel, Raphael's represent the zenith of Renaissance painting.

In addition to being one of the world's foremost art museums, the Uffizi Gallery is a one-stop history of Italian Renaissance art. Although it contains works by some of the great masters of western art, its greatest treasure is its collection of paintings that show step-by-step the evolution in painting that occurred here from the 14th to the 16th centuries.

Here, you will see the first experiments with perspective, as well as some of the early portraits as painters moved beyond religious art, and some of the first use of naturalistic and scenic backgrounds in religious art.

Be sure to see the Uffizi's most famous work: Botticelli's Birth of Venus .

Tip for Parents: Although art museums, especially ones this large, are not common choices for traveling families, the Uffizi has created tours for children that follow themes, such as monsters in art. You can download the brochure from the Uffizi website and follow it like a treasure hunt to find the artworks.

• Read More: Visiting the Uffizi Gallery in Florence: Top Highlights, Tips & Tours

Cinque Terre is a lovely coastal region with steep hills and sheer cliffs overlooking the Mediterranean. The five picturesque villages of Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola , and Riomaggiore can be reached by several means, joined to each other by walking paths, a railroad that tunnels through the headlands to emerge at each town, or a scenic narrow road high on the hillside above.

Hiking between the villages is one of the most popular things to do as it gives travelers the chance to enjoy the landscape. The small towns have maintained a feel of old-world fishing villages and offer a sense of remoteness even in the face of modern tourism. Because landslides can close portions of the trail, it is important to check current conditions before planning a hike.

If you are coming from Florence or Milan , several transportation options are available. If your time is limited, at least see the two most picturesque and charming, Vernazza and Riomaggiore.

Author's tip: The shortest and easiest part of the path carved along the cliffs between the villages is called Via dell'Amore (Path of Love) and connects Riomaggiore and Manarola. Closed by a landslide more than 10 years ago, this paved path reopened in midsummer 2023.

Lake Como is one of Italy's most scenic areas, surrounded by mountains and lined by small picturesque towns. A haunt of the wealthy since Roman times, the lake has many opulent villas and palaces along its wooded shores; Villa Balbianello and Villa Carlotta are the best known, both surrounded by gardens that are open to the public.

The mild climate that makes the lake shore ideal for gardens is also a draw for tourists, with characteristics similar to that of the Mediterranean. Along with the resort towns around the lake, there's an 11th-century abbey.

At the foot of the lake, the small city of Como, important since Roman times, is a short train ride from Milan . From its waterfront, you can embark on excursions around the lake on regularly scheduled steamers that make visiting the lakeside attractions easy.

Author's Tip: The most scenic part of the lake is from the town of Como to the center where the three arms join. A cross-lake ferry links the towns of Bellagio, Varenna and Tremezzo. A good way to see the highlights of the lake and explore these towns, where you'll find most of the attractions, is by taking the Navigazione Laghi tour boat from Como to one of the three and hopping onto ferries to visit the others. Then return to Como on a later boat.

The Pantheon, an exceptionally well-preserved remnant from Roman times , reveals the incredible architectural achievements of the Roman Empire.

The precise proportions of the building, dedicated to the planetary gods, with the height equal to the diameter, and a single beam of light entering the room from the top of the dome, were intended to represent the firmament and the sun.

Disused after early Christian kings forbade the use of a pagan temple as a church, it was later consecrated by the Pope in 609 CE. Italian Kings, the Renaissance painter Raphael, and other great Italians are buried in the Pantheon.

• Read More: Visiting the Pantheon in Rome: Highlights, Tips & Tours

Immortalized in films from La Dolce Vita to Roman Holiday, The Lizzie McGuire Movie and Three Coins in a Fountain , Trevi Fountain is a beloved icon that's a traditional stop on any visit to Rome. A coin tossed over the left shoulder (with the right hand) is supposed to guarantee a return trip.

The origins of the tradition are not clear, but the fountain itself began as a public water source, connected to an aqueduct built in the first century BC. By 1629, Pope Urban VIII wanted a more attractive fountain and asked Bernini to design the revisions. When the Pope died, so did Bernini's plan, and the present design of Neptune, horses, and shells was completed in 1751 by Nicolò Salvi.

The Amalfi Coast, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a stunning stretch of coastline along the Sorrentine Peninsula, south of Naples and Sorrento . Hillside towns are built precariously along the steep mountainsides that cascade down to the sea.

The main towns along here are Positano and Amalfi, with its colorfully domed cathedral. You can tour the coast by road, or hop between towns by boat for different perspectives of the dramatic and almost vertical shore.

While walking paths stretch all along the coast, the most breathtaking scenery for walkers is the Sentiero degli Dei, Footpath of the Gods, at the western end from Positano. My favorite viewpoint is far above the Amalfi Drive, in the village of Ravello. Clinging to the steep mountainside in terraces, Ravello was a sizable town in the 13 th century and the gardens of its former villas make scenic belvederes for enjoying flower-framed views of the coast below.

Author's tip: If you're hoping to spot celebrities, one of the best places to go is the Marina Grande in Positano. One of the largest beaches on the Amalfi Coast , it's also the most crowded. For a quieter experience, try the sandy Maiori Beach at the Amalfi coast's eastern end.

• Read More: Exploring the Top Attractions of the Amalfi Coast: A Visitor's Guide

One of the most important tourist sites in Venice is St. Mark's Basilica, whose ornate Byzantine-inspired façade and domes overlook Piazza San Marco , St. Mark's Square . The building itself is a work of art, with a mix of architectural styles heavily influenced by the Byzantine Empire, showing Venice's long trade connections to the East.

Highlights of the vast interior are the brilliant mosaics that line its domes and vaults, and the high altar covered in gold and jewels. The Treasury contains more glittering gold and jewels.

For an unforgettable view of St. Mark's Square, the tall campanile and the clock tower, climb to the porch to stand among the iconic horses.

Next to the basilica is the Doge's Palace , also filled with priceless masterpieces of Italian art. A tour of the Doge's Palace often includes a chance to visit the prison where Casanova escaped over the rooftops. To get there, you will cross the famous Bridge of Sighs .

• Read More: Exploring St. Mark's Basilica in Venice: A Visitor's Guide

One of the largest and best-preserved Roman amphitheaters still in existence , Arena di Verona is the centerpiece of the centro storico – the town's historic center. It is one of several features from ancient times, when Verona was an important Roman city. In naming it a World Heritage Site, UNESCO notes that "Verona has preserved a remarkable number of monuments from antiquity, the medieval and Renaissance periods."

Verona continued to thrive under the rule of the Scaliger family in the 13th and 14th centuries and as part of the Republic of Venice from the 15th to 18th centuries. The imposing Castelvecchio was both palace and a defensive fortress (now an outstanding art museum), overlooking the beautiful castellated Ponte Scaligero , a 14th-century bridge.

Throughout the old center are Romanesque churches, regal buildings with characteristic Venetian Gothic windows, and stone gates that are more reminders of its Roman origins. And, of course, in a courtyard close to Piazza del Erbe's daily market, you'll find Juliet's Balcony (which was actually built in the 1930s as a tourist attraction).

Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions & Things to Do in Verona

The still-smoking volcano of Mt. Vesuvius looks down on the remains of the city it destroyed in AD 79. But that same eruption also preserved many of the city's art treasures: frescoes, mosaics, and sculptures that were encased in the lava as it cooled.

Several centuries of excavations at Pompeii have revealed the remains of houses, markets, baths, temples, theaters, streets, and human remains. Visitors can tour the site , walk along the old streets scarred by the tracks of chariots, and see the engineering used by Romans more than 2,000 years ago.

Near Pompeii is the excavated city of Herculaneum , destroyed by the same eruption in 79 CE, but buried in lava and ash that solidified and froze the town just as it was. You can combine visits to the two sites in one day, but a longer stay allows time to ascend to the very rim of still-active Vesuvius.

Pompei is an easy day trip from Naples or from Sorrento.

The Roman Forum may require a little imagination – or a good tour guide – to understand exactly what this area once looked like and how it was used. However, its historical significance as the heart of the Roman Empire cannot be overstated.

Temples were built first, then public buildings, and soon the area became Rome's governmental center. Commerce followed with the building of market halls that made the Forum the hub of public life for the city, and eventually the Roman Empire.

Today, only pillars, partial structures, and foundations of former temples, market halls, courts, and public buildings pay tribute to Ancient Rome, which survived here for a thousand years.

Author's Tip: The Forum, the Colosseum, and Palatine Hill are included in a single two-day ticket. Because the Forum and Palatine Hill both require a lot of walking, if you plan to visit all three, it's best not to do those two on the same day.

• Read More: Visiting the Roman Forum: Highlights, Tips & Tours

UNESCO lists this complex of ancient Greek temples as a World Heritage Site not only for the number of these remaining, but for their remarkable state of preservation. Unlike most other ancient Greek settlements, the temples in Agrigento have not been overlain by building in later eras, so they preserve not only the structures themselves but the landscape of the original community.

The highlight is Tempio di Concordia, one of the most perfect Doric temples surviving anywhere. Almost as large is the Tempio di Juno Lacinia. The columns of the largest, Temple of the Olympian Zeus , were toppled by an earthquake. UNESCO cites the Valley of Temples as "among the most extraordinary representations of Doric architecture in the world."

Address: Valle dei Templi, Agrigento, Sicily

Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Sicily

Milan's magnificent Cathedral of Santa Maria Nascente , "Il Duomo" to the locals, is one of the world's largest churches and probably the best example anywhere of the flamboyant Gothic style. Its statue-studded façade (the exterior of the cathedral has a grand total of 2,245 marble statues) and the 135 carved stone pinnacles that crown its roof make quite a first impression, which is reinforced as you step inside.

Fifty-two immense pillars support the soaring ceiling of the nave, and its walls are decorated by the world's largest stained-glass windows. Highlights in the nave are the tomb of Gian Giacomo Medici and a 12th-century bronze candelabrum.

Below the high altar is the crypt and the octagonal chapel with the gold reliquary of San Carlo Borromeo. Under Piazza del Duomo, and reached by stairs near the entrance, are the foundations of a fourth-century baptistery and basilica.

An elevator will take you partway to the roof, where you can walk at a dizzying height among the carved stone pinnacles.

Address: Piazza del Duomo, Milan

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Milan

The Blue Grotto is one of the most visited spots in all of Italy, but there are other reasons for taking the short boat ride from Naples , Sorrento, or the Amalfi Coast to the fabled Isle of Capri . The steep rocky island juts from an intensely blue sea, its craggy cliffs softened by green pines and tropical plants.

The Blue Grotto is only one of the sea caves that cut its cliffs, and the best way to see these, along with the three signature rocks off the south coast known as the Faraglioni, is on a boat tour around the island. Several villas and gardens are open to tourists, and walking trails invite exploration.

From almost anywhere on the island, you can be certain of a good view. The beautiful Villa San Michele has perhaps the finest views on the island from its gardens, which overlook the Marina Grande from the village of Anacapri, high above. You can get there by bus or, for the energetic, by climbing the ancient Phoenician stairs carved into the steep hillside.

Read More: From Rome to Capri: Best Ways to Get There

Standing on more than 10,000 wooden pilings – the originals placed at the time of its construction in 1588 – the stone Rialto Bridge is both an icon of Venice and an essential link between two sides of the city . Until the Accademia Bridge was built in 1854 it was the only way to cross the Grand Canal on foot. It is still the busiest.

Its architect won the commission to design the bridge over such stiff competition as Michelangelo and Palladio, proposing a bridge with three walkways. The outer two are perpetually crowded with tourists catching views of the Grand Canal and its steady boat traffic, while the wider central walk is lined by shops catering to visitors.

Venetians do their shopping at the other side of the Rialto Bridge, in the bustling food market in San Polo. Along that side of the bridge, the canal is lined by restaurants, and you'll find smaller – and better – choices by following the narrow streets into the neighborhood of small shops and artisans.

Author's Tip: Do cross the bridge to wander in these little streets of San Polo. Here you'll find shops devoted to paper, bookbinding, mask and costume making, even one where skilled wood smiths carve the intricately balanced forcole, the oar posts for gondolas.

Although it is one of the world's most important pilgrimage destinations, Assisi and the 13 th -century St. Francis Basilica hold an important place in art history, as well. This dual importance prompted naming the birthplace of St. Francis and of the Franciscan order as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Begun in 1228, at the time of the saint's death, the basilica consists of two churches, the lower in a vaulted Romanesque style and above it a soaring Gothic church. In both of these, you'll find frescoes by masters including Giotto and Cimabue. This is the oldest Gothic church in Italy .

Although the upper church sustained serious damage in a 1997 earthquake, restorations were completed within two years and the church has returned to its earlier appearance. The order of Poor Clares was also founded in Assisi, in honor of St. Clare, a disciple of St. Francis, and the Gothic Basilica of Santa Chiara was built in 1265.

A hilltop castle, la Rocca, and a cathedral with quality frescoes and medieval stone carving are good reasons to spend some time sightseeing in Assisi , and you can visit the nearby hermitage of Le Carceri, where St. Francis retired to pray.

Assisi is a good day trip from Florence and you can get to Assisi from Rome by bus, train, car, or tour.

Among the most famous public squares in Italy, the oval Piazza del Campo in Siena is surrounded by noble palaces, their facades of red clay brick curving to enclose the sloping piazza. Dominating the scene is the elegant Palazzo Púbblico (Town Hall) and its exceptionally tall tower. The severity of the imposing façade and its battlements is relieved by rows of windows with curved Gothic arches.

The slender Torre del Mangia, at 102 meters in height must have been a leap of faith for Medieval architects and builders, especially with its battlemented platform at the top. The Piazza del Campo is best known as the scene of the madcap bareback horserace , the Palio , held twice each summer and one of the top things to do in Italy .

In startling contrast to the red brick elsewhere in the city, the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta and its tall campanile are clad in dramatic stripes of black and white marble. Its façade is even more dramatic, a symphony of arches, gables, columns, reliefs, and pinnacles decorated in intricately detailed stone carvings and statues by Renaissance genius Giovanni Pisano.

Inside Siena's cathedral are works by Pisano, Donatello, Bernini, Ghiberti, and other Renaissance masters, which combine with paintings, sculptures, mosaics, gold and silver work, illuminated manuscripts, mosaics, and stone and wood carving for a collection to rival those of many of the most eminent museums.

This largesse reflects the fact that in the 13th and 14th centuries, Siena rivaled Florence in wealth and for its art and architecture. Although once separate seats of power, today Siena is a short day trip from Florence.

In naming Italy's Strada delle Dolomiti a World Heritage Site, UNESCO described "some of the most beautiful mountain landscapes anywhere, with vertical walls, sheer cliffs, and a high density of narrow, deep, and long valleys."

Long known to climbers and winter sports enthusiasts for some of Europe's finest hiking and skiing (the town of Cortina D'Ampezzo is one of the top ski resorts in Italy and site of the 1956 Winter Olympic Games), the Dolomites are just as appealing for sightseeing and relaxing vacations.

Dotted with charming small villages in breathtakingly beautiful settings, the road between Bolzano and Cortina D'Ampezzo is easy to tour by car. Unlike many such dramatic mountain routes, the Strada delle Dolomiti is well maintained and without the perilous sharp curves and steep drop-offs of many Alpine roads.

Bolzano , at the western end of the route, is worth a stop to see Ötzi, the man who was been preserved in ice, deep inside a glacier for 5,300 years , and the clothing and equipment, frozen there with him.

Author Tip: Do venture off the main road to find some of the villages tucked into valleys, where you'll see houses pained in Alpine frescoes. My favorite stop is in Arabba to take the funicular up Col Burz for panoramic views. Several other lifts that carry skiers in the winter are operating for hikers and tourists in the summer.

From 402 CE, when Emperor Honorius moved his court here from Milan, the Adriatic port of Ravenna was the capital of the Western Roman Empire. Honorius and his sister, Galla Placidia, began the process of making Ravenna a center for Byzantine mosaic art, an effort that was continued in the reign of sixth-century king Theodoric the Great.

The results remain today almost as these emperors saw them, lining churches and monuments in extravagant splendor. The dome of San Vitale is completely decorated (apart from a few frescoes added in the Baroque era) in pictures formed by tesserae so minute, that they combine to look like a painter's fine brushstrokes. More line the walls and chapels, comprising the largest and best-preserved display outside of Constantinople.

In the neighboring Mausoleum of Galla Placidia , the tiniest of tesserae create an intimate and other-worldly space under a low vaulted ceiling of intense blue. In a third building, the octagonal Neonian Baptistery, the entire dome is covered in intricate mosaic pictures.

Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Ravenna

No great art treasures or momentous historic sites put the little Ligurian village of Portofino on the must-see list, but for pure eye candy and a dose of la dolce vita , it's worth a day-trip from Genoa or a detour on the way to the Cinque Terre.

Looking as though it were built as a film set (no, the Masterpiece series Hotel Portofino , although set here, was not filmed here) with a semicircle of pastel houses facing a cozy harbor filled with boats, Portofino begs to be photographed.

A favorite watering hole for high-flying celebs (you never know who you'll spot in its cafes) and the paparazzi that pursue them, Portofino is filled with stylish boutiques and chic restaurants. But don't be put off; the town's picturesque charm will make you glad you stopped.

Leading the list of the top beaches in Italy , the miles of white sand southwest from the capital of Cagliari slope into clear blue-green water and are backed by a spectacular landscape of rocky promontories and protected wildlands.

Choose your favorite style of beach, from tiny secluded coves hidden between headlands to the three-mile-long sands at Porto Campana, where you can rent kiteboard or paddleboard equipment and take lessons, or go scuba diving in the clear water. Spiaggia Sa Colonia is another long stretch of beach with a gentle, shallow drop-off that makes it a good place to go for families with young children.

Near Chia you'll find Tuerredda Beach , whose warm blue-green waters invite swimmers and snorkelers. For a more intimate experience, beautiful Porticciolo Beach is a secluded crescent of white sand. Most remote of all are the wide white sand beaches of the Costa Verde, farther west, where the coast of Sardinia curves northward.

The miles of white sands are backed by dunes, some of which are the tallest in Europe. Don't expect a lot of tourist services here, but do expect long stretches of white sand where, even in busy August, you can find a spot without other people in sight.

More on Italy

12 amazing ways to experience Italy

Jan 11, 2024 • 8 min read

Few joys compare to discovering the beauty of Italy with friends © MStudioImages / Getty Images

With its awe-inspiring art, architecture and culinary delights, Italy has been a star of the world stage for millennia.

The epicenter of the Roman Empire and the birthplace of the Renaissance, this European virtuoso practically groans under the weight of its cultural cachet. The challenge for any visit to Italy is not so much where to go – an amazing experience is honestly assured wherever you end up – but rather how to go about it.

The following advice on the best things to do from a veteran visitor can help you turn every trip into a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

1. Glam it up on the dramatic Amalfi Coast

Whether you follow the rugged cliff-laced coast in search of a wild swimming spot or live the high life with spritz-sipping A-listers in Positano , the Amalfi Coast is one of Italy's most glamorous destinations. This dramatic coastal strip has thrills and spills to suit every taste and budget, from hunting down traditional marquetry in Sorrento's maze-like old town to garden-hopping in Ravello .

Planning tip: Make time for the Sentiero degli Dei ("Path of the Gods") – a rugged hiking trail that delivers on its name with positively celestial views.

2. See artwork as part of Tuscany's sustainable tourism project

Most Tuscan tours begin in the UNESCO-listed city of Florence , a cinematic feast of Renaissance palazzi (palaces), medieval-frescoed chapels and art museums brimming with Botticelli and Michelangelo masterpieces .

At the historic heart of Florence is the Uffizi , whose unmatched Renaissance masterpieces are ogled by millions of visitors each year. To take the art journey further, the five-year Uffizi Diffusi project started in 2021 to encourage art buffs to trek across Tuscany's backcountry – on foot, by bike or by car – following an untrodden trail to Italian masterpieces.

Designed to diffuse Florence's heavy tourist load, this sustainable tourism project is bringing pop-up galleries to remote chapels, fortresses, hilltop villages and other unconventional spaces. Not only does it lead visitors off the beaten track, but it also allows artworks to be admired among the very Tuscan landscapes that inspired the artists – think iconic terrain of rolling hills dipped in morning mist, timeless cypress alleys, silver olive groves and terraced rows of vines. Check current venues on the Uffizi website .

3. Tour Rome, the epicenter of empire

Working out the best way to spend your time in the Italian capital is a cultural conundrum. Rome is the former caput mundi (capital of the world), the epicenter of the Roman Empire, the spiritual HQ of the Christian world and the repository for over two millennia of European art and architecture. The city exudes must-see sights from every pore.

Zooming around Italy's Eternal City on the back of a Vespa moped to sightsee at speed is one option and a great way to sample the dolce vita (good life). From the Colosseum (buy a "Full Experience" ticket to access the underground vaults), the Pantheon  and the Roman Forum to Michelangelo's Sistine Chapel and the Vatican Museums , there's history and culture at every turn.

Planning tip:  There's simply too much to cover in a single visit – so before you leave, toss a coin into the pool below the wild horses and cascading rockfalls of the Trevi Fountain to ensure a return visit to this captivating city.

4. Spend time on one of Italy's many idyllic islands

Italy's prized island collection hovers around the 450 mark, meaning il bel paese ("the beautiful country") has a beach-laced island with your name on it. Myriad islands dot the Mediterranean, Ionian, Adriatic and Tyrrhenian Seas. Venice alone is made up of 17 islands, and Sicily and Sardinia – the country's biggest and busiest islands – offer an enticing mix of outdoor thrills and living history.

Unblemished Capri , a boat ride from Naples, attracts celebrities and the super-rich (as does posh Panarea in Sicily's Aeolian archipelago). Volcanic Ischia is awash with thermal spas and manicured gardens.

Planning tip: Traveling with nature lovers? Then head to the peaceful salt marshes and mudflats teeming with birdlife in the pristine Grado lagoon , on the country's northeast border with Austria and Slovenia in little-explored Friuli Venezia Giulia .

5. Help to save Venice

Venice is impossible to ignore – which explains the hordes of tourists who pile into this dreamlike city of romantic canals and ethereal fogs. In an average year, some 25 million arrive to snap selfies beneath the Bridge of Sighs and glimpse heaven (in fresco form) in Basilica di San Marco . To curb future crowds, turnstiles at city entrances and advance reservations via an app to enter the city are all on the drawing board. And 2024 will see the long-awaited implementation of a tourist tax  designed to make sure day-trippers contribute to the city's survival.

Planning tip:  To make a positive impact on Italy's most mobbed city, come out of season , and don't duck in and out on a day trip. Instead, stay for a few days using the community-powered, home-sharing platform Fairbnb and meet and learn from Venetians who are passionate about their city through Venezia Autentica . At mealtimes, favor lagoon-caught seafood in local restaurants over tourist joints with English-language menus.

6. Get off-grid in rural Abruzzo

The Abruzzo region doesn't have the Amalfi's natural glamour or the cultural gems of Rome, but for travelers seeking an immersive, emotive brush with rural Italy and its people, it definitely hits the spot. Cradled by the gritty Apennine mountains and unforgiving Adriatic sea, the region was hit by an earthquake in 2009. Yet Abruzzo is slowly rebuilding itself and reclaiming its rich heritage.

In the quiet town of L'Aquila, a new outpost of Rome's MAXXI (National Museum of 21st Century Arts) is just one sign of this cultural rebirth. In remote Santo Stefano di Sessanio, the Sextantio albergo diffuso program hosts visitors in rustic rooms scattered around this pretty mountain village. Spotting rare Marsican bears padding around the Parc Nazionale d'Abruzzo is the icing on the cake.

7. Follow the Via Francigena pilgrim trail

Cycling and walking are great ways to get under the skin of Italy's diverse landscapes, and there is no finer long-distance trail than the medieval Via Francigena . A perfect, less-trodden alternative to Spain's Camino de Santiago, Italy's most celebrated pilgrim route wends its way for 1900km (1180 miles), running all the way from Canterbury in England to Rome.

The scenic Italian section unfurls at a meditative snail's pace through Tuscany and Lazio , breaking for breath at beautiful hilltop villages, volcanic lakes, Etruscan ruins , remote monasteries and enchanting emerald hills around Lucca ; the UNESCO-protected Val d'Orcia ;  Viterbo ; and other gloriously overlooked spots.

8. Enjoy the drama and excitement of Naples' street life

As Italy's most spirited urban hub, this highly charged, charismatic city in the country's deep south is a curious potpourri of nail-biting history, classical art and a grungy grassroots cocktail of frescoed ruins, frenzied markets and epicurean adventures . Drama is the order of the day in boisterous Naples , where street life unfolds like a grand opera.

Shop for swordfish heads and sweet ricotta pastries at Naples' oldest market, ogle street art in the Centro Storico, admire Mt Vesuvius views from the Lungomare seafront, explore subterranean catacombs , then follow the lead of locals and join the after-dark passegiatta (promenade) on Via Chiaia. Whatever you do, count on drama 24/7.

9. Savor slow food in Piedmont

Rare white truffles from the vine-striped countryside around Alba offer the most grassroots gastronomic experience in all of Italy. Once these fabulous fungi are tracked down by dogs in the woods, ceremoniously sniffed and greedily scoffed, there is no going back.

Truffles aside, the northwestern region of Piedmont , birthplace of the Slow Food movement , entices gourmets with sweet, creamy hazelnuts from the rolling Langhe hills and silky chocolate and myriad cocoa creations in gilded cafes in elegant Turin . Nebbiolo grapes metamorphose into magical Barolo and Barbaresco wines, and lavish banquets pair these treats with sacrosanct aperitivo (pre-meal snacks to eat with a drink and open up the appetite).

Planning tip:  Go hungry and savor the slow feast, one delicious mouthful at a time.

10. Soak up the timeless beauty of Sicily

The eternal crossroads of the Mediterranean, the island of Sicily dazzles with a brilliant diversity of landscapes and cultural treasures. In the southeast, honey-hued Syracuse was the largest city in the ancient world – bigger even than Athens and Corinth – and played an important role in classical Greece. Its hypnotic archaeological ruins, rising out of lush citrus orchards and the sparkling blue Mediterranean, continue to encapsulate Sicily's timeless beauty.

Planning tip:  Greek dramas still flourish in Syracuse's great amphitheater, alongside contemporary theater, live music and more. Plan to see a show beneath the stars on the antiquity stage at Teatro Greco – and expect an unforgettable and spellbinding spectacle.

11. Harvest grapes in the Cinque Terre

Nothing matches Cinque Terre's stunning setting – five teeny, sherbet-colored villages pinned to a jaw-dropping backdrop of terraced vineyards, wave-carved cliffs and blue sea on the Italian Riviera. Summer packs these celebrity villages to bursting point, but the autumn vendemmia (grape harvest) ushers in quite a different scene.

Planning tip:  Come in the fall for mellow days of strolling along quiet cobbled lanes and hiking through vertical vineyards and hillsides perfumed by macchia (herbal scrub) to ancient sanctuaries. The sight of local pickers gallantly harvesting the grapes that go into the Cinque Terre's sweet, fortified Sciacchetrà, and sipping the resulting vintages in a Corniglia or Riomaggiore wine bar with vertiginous views is an experience that will stay with you forever.

12. Hit the ski slopes and hiking trails in Valle d'Aosta

Ringed by some of Europe's highest peaks, including Mont Blanc, the Matterhorn, Monte Rosa and Gran Paradiso, the Aosta Valley sports some of the best winter sports facilities on the continent. In fashionable Courmayeur , winter skiers descend hair-raising runs into France and Switzerland, crossing glaciers and returning via lofty cable cars.

And when the snow melts, spectacular hiking trails in the Parco Nazionale del Gran Paradiso and around Mont Blanc await. Whatever the season, keep your ears peeled for Franco-Provençal (also known as Valdôtain), the Franco-Italian valley's distinctive local language.

This article was first published Oct 21, 2021 and updated Jan 11, 2024.

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Rome   Travel Guide

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Best Times To Visit Rome

The best time to visit Rome is from October to April when most of the tourist crowds have dissipated and room rates are lower. Although you'll need a warm coat, weather this time of year hardly ever dips below freezing. For warmer weather – without throngs of tourists and the sweltering humidity – come in May or September. High average temperatures flit between the mid-70s and the lower 80s.

Weather in Rome

Data sourced from the National Climatic Data Center

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Popular Times to Visit Rome

Tourism volume is estimated based on in-market destination search query interest from Google and on travel.usnews.com in 2015-2016. Hotel prices are sourced from a sample of U.S. News Best Hotels rates through 2015-2016.

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