Have you ever wondered why Rome is one of the most popular and visited cities in Europe? In this post, I’m sharing the 20 best things to do in Rome, from historic monuments to cool neighborhoods, and even where to go for epic views of the city! Read more to discover why Rome is so beloved…
Planning Your Trip To Rome
First things first, if you’re going to explore all the great things to do in Rome, an itinerary would be helpful, right?
You’re gonna want this, trust me – there are LOTS of things to do in Rome, and it can feel a little overwhelming at times. So if you’re wondering how to squeeze everything in (or maybe you’re just busy and don’t have time to plan it all yourself) you need these itineraries!
All the work is already done for you…
What you get are 4 different Rome itineraries. You can use them consecutively (or just pick and choose your favorites!) They’re completely free and give you 4 perfect days exploring the city! I wish I would’ve had something like this for my first trip to Rome, it’s an invaluable resource.
The BEST Things To Do In Rome
Now that you have the free Rome itineraries, I’ve also created a map of the city with all the points marked. That way you can easily see where everything is located. Many of these must-see Rome destinations are walking distance apart!
And finally, here’s a quick overview of ALL the great information that can be found in this guide:
- Rome insider tips and tricks
- What to expect once you’re in the city
- Admission info for all attractions
- Helpful links
- Free things to do in Rome (look for the free icon)
- What to do during inclement weather (look for the umbrella icon)
”How is it possible to say an unkind or irreverential word of Rome? The city of all time, and of all the world!”
Nathaniel Hawthorne
1. Experience The Colosseum
The Roman Colosseum, also known as the Flavian Amphitheater, is iconic. In ancient times, it held over 50,000 people and was primarily used for gladiator battles, animal exhibitions, and prisoner executions. Despite its storied past, it’s construction and size are fascinating – it’s the largest amphitheater in the world!
The Colosseum is open almost 365 days of the year, and your ticket includes admission to Palatine Hill and the Roman Forum (see #2 and #3 below). It’s a 2-day ticket, meaning there’s no rush and you can come back on a consecutive day to experience it again. The Colosseum absolutely deserves a spot on the list of best things to do in Rome! You won’t regret going.
Fun fact: admission is free on the first Sunday of the month! Check out the official website to buy tickets. It’s $16 for regular admission but I recommend getting the “skip the line” tickets, since the queue can get crazy. They have guided tours and multi-attraction tickets too.
Climb Palatine Hill
If you’re looking for a peaceful, green oasis with fantastic views of the city you don’t want to miss Palatine Hill. The most famous of Rome’s seven hills, in ancient times it was highly desirable real estate for emperors and the elite. Today, it’s an archaeological site and a great place to
Located right next to the Colosseum, from the top of Palatine Hill you can see panoramic views of the city. Some climbing is required, but it’s worth it! You’ll see flower gardens alongside ancient ruins, and have fantastic photo opportunities.
My recommendation – pack a picnic lunch and find a grassy spot to unwind. If you’re visiting the Colosseum, admission to Palatine Hill is included. If you want to visit Palatine Hill on
Walk Through The Roman Forum
The Roman Forum is a fascinating collection of ruins to wander through. It was originally the heart of the city, where Romans went
You’ll see numerous temples and monuments made of marble and stone, and it’s fun to imagine what life might’ve been like for the people that lived there. If you like history and ruins, you definitely want to visit the Roman Forum. Interestingly, visitors still leave flowers at the tomb of Julius Caesar!
Gaze At The Arch of Constantine
The A
Positioned in between the Colosseum and Roman Forum, you can’t miss it.
Climb The Spanish Steps
A popular place for artists, painters and poets, the Spanish Steps are more than just a staircase! It’s a beautiful meeting place with terraces, fountains, and plenty of people
There are 138 steps in total, and they connect the Trinita
Throw A Coin In The Trevi Fountain
Easily the most elaborate water feature in Rome, the Trevi Fountain is unlike any other! It’s massive in size, stunningly beautiful, and has a bit of legend that goes along with it…
If you throw one coin in, you’ll return to Rome. Two coins
The Trevi Fountain is free, but bring your patience with you! Because of its popularity, it’s typically very crowded. But at least you can feel good knowing that almost a million euros worth of coins
People Watch At Piazza Navona
The Piazza Navona is one of the largest public squares in Rome. Whether you loved the Trevi Fountain (or skipped it due to being too crowded), Piazza Navona is another great spot and features three fountains of its own.
You’ll also see musicians, street artists, and be close to lots of shops and restaurants (a great chance to grab some gelato!) Piazza Navona is situated in the historic center of Rome, west of the Pantheon. Also nearby is the Church of Sant’Agnese.
Fontana Dei Quattro Fiumi
The “fountain of the four rivers” is located within the Piazza Navona, but deserves a spot on this list for its grand presence. It represents the rivers Nile, Ganges, Danube, and Plate, which were the only four continents known at the time the fountain was created.
The fountain is free to visit (and not nearly as crowded as other Rome attractions). It’s absolutely beautiful and features larger-than-life sculptures.
Marvel At The Pantheon
An enigma of Roman history, the original purpose of the Pantheon is still unknown. It’s rumored to have been built as a temple to the gods, but historians can’t be sure. What is clear is its an architectural marvel and is the largest unsupported dome in the world!
What looks relatively simple from the outside is incredibly detailed inside, with an oculus in the roof that lets light in. Definitely put this on your list of best things to do in Rome!
Walk Through The Sistine Chapel
Renowned for it’s Renaissance art (the ceiling was painted by Michelangelo!), the Sistine Chapel contains arguably the most important painting in the world. It’s truly a sight to see. The Sistene Chapel also has major religious significance. When a new Pope is chosen, it’s the chimney in the Sistine Chapel that’s used to signal to the public.
The Sistine Chapel is located within Vatican City. S
Ticket cost is approximately $21 (or $24 if you buy online “skip the line”) and includes entry to the Vatican Museums. There are many rules regarding dress code, photography, and food that I recommend checking out here.
Tour The Vatican Museums
The Vatican Museums are an art collection to die for. You’ll see everything from the Sistine Chapel and gorgeous frescoes to Egyptian mummies and modern art. You could easily spend hours here marveling at the sculptures and tapestries that cover an area of over 4 miles. Other must-sees include the helical staircase, the Pavilion of Coaches, and the Gallery of Geographic Maps.
Vatican City is about 4 miles outside Rome and will likely require public transportation. You have lots of options (taxicab, bus, and train), so click here for more info. On a budget? Try visiting on the last Sunday of every month when entrance is free.
St. Peter’s Square
While you’re inside Vatican City, be sure to stop and admire St. Peter’s Square. Statuesque and dramatic, it’s bordered on two sides by semi-circular columns which symbolize the stretched arms of the church embracing the world.
Hundreds of thousands of people visit St. Peter’s Square every year, and lucky for you, it’s free. Grab some food, relax, and take in the beautiful surroundings.
St. Peter’s Basilica
Adjacent to St. Peter’s Square is the Basilica, the largest cathedral in Rome where important religious ceremonies are held. It’s also home to elaborate glass mosaics and a stunning, lavish interior.
For stunning rooftop views, make the long climb to the dome. There are multiple tiers you can stop at along the way, and even make your way out onto the roof! FYI, the dome closes earlier than the Basilica, so go ther first!
Visit Trastevere
If you want to feel like you’re part of the “real” Rome, check out the Trastevere neighborhood. You’ll find narrow, cobblestone streets and
Mingle with the locals, find a great (non-touristy) souvenir and just soak up the energy of Trastevere.
Walk Near The Tiber River
Significant in Roman history, the Tiber River connected Rome to the Mediterranean Sea and enabled trade. Weaving through the city, it’s a great way to avoid some of the hustle and bustle of city streets and get a new perspective.
A great place to walk, there’s also a bike path on the Trastevere side. A few things you’ll see along your journey are bridges, a few major landmarks, and some cool graffiti art.
Do Something Unusual At The Capuchin Crypt
Like nothing else you’ve ever seen, the Capuchin Crypt is equal parts fascinating and horrifying. Located beneath a church, the crypt is an ossuary, a collection of thousands of human bones. In this case, the bones of Capuchins, a group of friars that served as missionaries and lived by a
The crypt is meant to honor the
City Views at Altar of the Fatherland
Built to honor the first king of a unified Italy, this national monument overlooks the Roman
Be sure to check out the museum at the base of the monument, and climb the stairs to the rooftop terrace for amazing views of the city.
Climb Gianicolo Hill
Offering panoramic views of the city, Giancolo (Janiculum) Hill is the highest point in Trastevere and a great spot to capture many of the city’s iconic monuments. A few nearby must-sees: Canon of the Janiculum and the Lighthouse of the Italians of Argentina.
Fun fact: it’s also the unofficial “lover’s lane” of Rome where sweethearts like to spend time together.
Relax At Villa Borghese
Villa Borghese is one of the largest public parks in Rome and a beautiful place to spend an afternoon. There’s something for everyone: a zoo, theater, walking/running trails, and several museums along with a lake and beautiful green space all around.
While you’re there, be sure to check out the three secret gardens.
Have Gelato At Mercato Centrale Roma
You can’t leave Rome without visiting one of the many markets. Mercato Centrale Roma is a bustling center, located within the Termini Train Station. It’s where great pizza, wine, and gelato can be found under one roof!
The train station is a major hub, so chances are you might be passing through anyway. It’s worth stopping here to explore, as the restaurants are high-quality local favorites.
Mangiamo! (that’s “let’s eat” in Italian).
Enjoy Your Trip To Rome!
I hope you enjoyed this list of 20 best things to do in Rome! It’s such an iconic city and truly a joy to explore. Now that you know the main things to do and see, I’d love to hear from you! What are you looking forward to the most? Leave a comment below!
Here are a few related posts you may find helpful when planning your trip:
- Keeping Your Sanity On Long Flights
- Visit Venice: Photos To Inspire You
- International Travel Mistakes (and how to avoid them)
- Life-Changing Travel: First Steps To Plan Your Trip Abroad
