20 Best Things to Do in Rome
Published Aug 6, 2026 · 10 min read · 20 things to do
Rome is a city where millennia of history sit alongside modern daily life, making every neighbourhood feel like an open-air museum. Whether your broader European itinerary includes coastal stops in Albania, mountain escapes in Andorra, or island visits in the Åland Islands, spending time in Italy's capital remains an unmissable highlight. This curated guide details 20 essential landmarks, historic districts, and local experiences to help you shape a balanced trip. Use these recommendations to combine world-famous ancient sights with quiet walks and authentic dining.
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1. The Colosseum
The world's largest ancient amphitheatre stands as an enduring symbol of imperial Roman power and architectural ingenuity. Visitors can walk through massive stone arches to view the tiered seating levels and the underlying hypogeum structure where gladiators and animals waited. Exploring this landmark provides an immediate connection to classical history.
Why go: It is the single most iconic monument of ancient Rome and an essential starting point for first-time visitors.
Tip: Book entry tickets online several weeks ahead and select an early morning slot to skip the longest queues and midday sun.
HistoryOutdoor activitiesFamily friendly2. Roman Forum and Palatine Hill
Adjacent to the Colosseum, the Roman Forum served as the political, legal, and commercial hub of ancient Rome. Walking along the stone-paved Via Sacra takes you past ruined temples, monumental arches, and ancient basilicas. The adjoining Palatine Hill offers quiet tree-lined pathways, imperial palace ruins, and elevated city views.
Why go: Ideal for travellers who want to walk through the physical centre of ancient public life.
Tip: Wear comfortable shoes with rubber soles, as the ancient paved roads and dirt tracks are uneven throughout.
HistoryOutdoor activities3. The Pantheon
This remarkably preserved ancient temple features the world's largest unreinforced concrete dome, built during the reign of Emperor Hadrian. Light streams through the central open oculus, illuminating marble interior walls and the tombs of historic figures, including the Renaissance artist Raphael. The surrounding plaza offers an inviting space to admire its grand classical portico.
Why go: Offers an extraordinary opportunity to step inside a intact ancient Roman building.
Tip: Reserve entry tickets online in advance for weekend visits, when entry limits and lines are strictly managed.
HistoryBudget4. St. Peter's Basilica
Located in Vatican City, St. Peter's Basilica is one of the grandest churches in the world and a cornerstone of Renaissance architecture. Inside, visitors can view Michelangelo's marble Pieta statue and Bernini's impressive bronze baldachin over the papal altar. A climb up to the top of the dome rewards visitors with wide views across St. Peter's Square.
Why go: Unmissable for art lovers and anyone interested in seeing religious architecture on a grand scale.
Tip: Dress modestly with shoulders and knees covered to clear the strict dress code enforced at security.
HistoryLuxury5. Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel
The immense papal collections inside the Vatican Museums span miles of galleries displaying classical sculptures, tapestries, and geographical maps. The self-guided route leads directly to the Sistine Chapel, where visitors can view Michelangelo's famous painted ceiling and The Last Judgment. Surrounding rooms painted by Raphael showcase some of the finest frescoes of the High Renaissance.
Why go: Suits art enthusiasts keen to experience one of the world's most famous art collections in a single visit.
Tip: Select an afternoon entry slot when morning tour groups have begun leaving the crowded central corridors.
History6. Trevi Fountain
Designed by Nicola Salvi in the 18th century, this grand Baroque fountain features sea gods carved from travertine stone set against a palace facade. Water rushes over sculpted rocks into a large turquoise pool, creating a dramatic focal point in a compact square. Toss a coin over your shoulder into the water, a tradition said to ensure your return to Rome.
Why go: A classic spectacle showcasing the outdoor theatricality of Roman Baroque sculpture.
Tip: Visit late in the evening or at dawn to view the fountain illuminated without dense crowds surrounding the basin.
HistoryOutdoor activitiesBudget7. Piazza Navona
Built over the footprint of an ancient Roman stadium, Piazza Navona maintains a distinctive oval layout lined with cafés and Baroque buildings. The center is anchored by Bernini's Fountain of the Four Rivers, an ornate sculpture representing major world rivers. Street artists, musicians, and visitors gather here throughout the day and evening.
Why go: Great for enjoying outdoor city life while taking in magnificent Baroque public art.
Tip: Grab a gelati or espresso on a nearby side street to enjoy lower prices than the outdoor cafés directly on the square.
HistoryOutdoor activitiesBudget8. Spanish Steps and Piazza di Spagna
This monumental 135-step staircase links the Piazza di Spagna below with the Church of Trinità dei Monti above. At the foot of the stairs sits the Fontana della Barcaccia, a sunken boat fountain designed by Pietro Bernini. The surrounding streets form Rome's premier luxury shopping area, featuring high-end Italian fashion houses.
Why go: Perfect for people-watching, exploring historic lanes, and photographing landmark city views.
Tip: Note that city regulations forbid sitting on the marble steps themselves to help preserve the stone monument.
HistoryOutdoor activitiesShopping9. Trastevere Neighbourhood
Located across the Tiber River, Trastevere is characterized by narrow cobbled streets, ivy-draped facades, and quiet courtyards. During the day, it is a calm district with historic churches like Santa Maria in Trastevere at its heart. As evening arrives, the area fills with lively crowds heading to traditional trattorias, wine bars, and outdoor plazas.
Why go: Suits food lovers and strollers wanting a classic neighbourhood atmosphere with strong culinary options.
Tip: Wander away from the main streets into quiet side alleys to find authentic family-run trattorias.
Food & drinkNightlifeOutdoor activities10. Villa Borghese Gardens and Gallery
Villa Borghese is a expansive landscape park featuring shaded walking paths, shaded avenues, and a peaceful lake. Located inside the grounds, the Galleria Borghese houses a famous collection of Bernini marble sculptures and paintings by Caravaggio and Titian. Renting a bicycle or strolling the grounds offers a relaxing break from the city streets.
Why go: Combines quiet natural green spaces with an exceptional museum of classical art.
Tip: Entry to the Galleria Borghese requires strict pre-booked timed tickets, so secure yours well before arriving.
HistoryNatureOutdoor activities11. Castel Sant'Angelo
Originally built as a mausoleum for Emperor Hadrian, this circular fortress was converted over the centuries into a papal castle, refuge, and prison. Visitors can explore decorated apartments, weapon vaults, and fortified corridors used in times of siege. The open upper terrace provides sweeping panoramic views over the Tiber River towards St. Peter's Basilica.
Why go: Offers an engaging mix of military history, ancient architecture, and scenic skyline views.
Tip: Walk across the adjacent pedestrian bridge, Ponte Sant'Angelo, to see the ten marble angel statues carved by Bernini's students.
HistoryOutdoor activities12. Campo de' Fiori Market
This lively historic square hosts a daily morning market selling fresh produce, flowers, Italian spices, and regional food products. Under colourful umbrellas, vendors display seasonal fruits, cured meats, and artisan cheeses. In the evening, the market stalls are cleared, and the square turns into an active spot for outdoor dining and drinks.
Why go: Ideal for food lovers eager to experience an energetic traditional Roman morning market.
Tip: Arrive mid-morning to see the market at its fullest before stalls close around early afternoon.
Food & drinkShoppingBudget13. Capitoline Museums
Set atop Capitoline Hill, these partner museums face a grand square designed by Michelangelo. The galleries contain ancient marble statues, bronzes, and classical artifacts, including the famous Capitoline Wolf sculpture. An underground stone passage links the buildings, passing through the ancient Tabularium.
Why go: Essential for travellers wanting to view significant classical Roman sculptures in an elegant museum setting.
Tip: Head to the museum's upper terrace café for open views overlooking the Roman Forum.
History14. Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore
As one of Rome's four major papal basilicas, Santa Maria Maggiore features fifth-century interior mosaics and a ornate coffered ceiling. The interior showcases a blend of early Christian structure and grand Baroque chapel additions. It remains an active place of worship and a tranquil spot away from the heavy tourist traffic of central sites.
Why go: Suits travellers interested in sacred art and mosaic decoration without long queues.
Tip: Take time to examine the geometric cosmati mosaic stone patterns along the main floor walkway.
HistoryBudget15. Monti District
Located a short walk from the Colosseum, Monti is a stylish neighborhood filled with bohemian charm, vintage boutiques, and independent coffee shops. Cobblestone lanes curve past ivy-covered brickwork and residential plazas. It is a popular spot for an afternoon stroll or an relaxed evening aperitivo alongside local residents.
Why go: Great for shoppers seeking unique vintage finds and travellers looking for a relaxed neighborhood feel.
Tip: Check out the local weekend artisan market hosted in the area for unique clothing and accessories.
ShoppingFood & drinkNightlife16. Baths of Caracalla
These massive ruins were once one of the largest public bath complexes in the Roman Empire, accommodating thousands of visitors daily. Guests can wander among towering brick walls, remnant floor mosaics, and vast open courtyard spaces. Surrounded by green lawns and pine trees, the site offers an uncluttered look at ancient Roman public life.
Why go: Ideal for history enthusiasts wanting to explore large-scale ancient ruins outside the crowded city center.
Tip: Rent an audio or visual guide at the entrance to help visualize how the marble halls looked during antiquity.
HistoryOutdoor activities17. Aventine Keyhole and Orange Garden
Situated on the Aventine Hill, the Priory of the Knights of Malta features a small iron keyhole with a perfectly aligned view of St. Peter's dome through manicured hedges. Nearby, the Giardino degli Aranci (Orange Garden) provides a peaceful park setting with a terrace overlooking the city skyline. It is a calm, scenic location away from bustling traffic.
Why go: Perfect for scenic afternoon walks and unique photographic views of Rome.
Tip: Visit around late afternoon to enjoy the orange grove and watch the sunset from the terrace viewpoint.
Outdoor activitiesBudgetHistory18. Galleria Doria Pamphilj
Housed within a grand private palace on Via del Corso, this gallery contains an extensive private collection of fine art still owned by a noble Roman family. Ornate gilded corridors display works by Caravaggio, Velázquez, and Titian in an authentic aristocratic setting. The palace preserves classic interior decor, chandeliers, and historic furnishings.
Why go: Suits art lovers who prefer quiet, decorated room galleries over busy municipal museums.
Tip: Use the provided audio guide, narrated by family members, to hear stories behind specific artworks and rooms.
HistoryLuxury19. Appian Way and Catacombs
The Via Appia Antica is one of the earliest Roman military roads, paved with large basalt stone blocks and lined with ancient tombs and aqueducts. Beneath the surrounding fields lie catacombs that served as underground burial sites for early Christian communities. The countryside setting offers fresh air and historic exploration along preserved paths.
Why go: Great for active travellers interested in cycling or walking through historic countryside scenery.
Tip: Rent a bicycle near the start of the park to comfortably travel further along the cobblestone road.
HistoryOutdoor activitiesNature20. Testaccio District
Traditionally the butcher district of Rome, Testaccio is now known as a heartland for authentic Roman home cooking and food culture. The covered Testaccio Market features stalls selling fresh pasta, street food sandwiches, and local cheeses. The area retains a distinct working-class heritage and a vibrant dining scene.
Why go: Ideal for foodies seeking authentic Roman culinary classics like cacio e pepe and carbonara.
Tip: Head to the market during lunchtime to sample freshly prepared food from popular local vendor stalls.
Food & drinkNightlifeBudget
Frequently asked questions
How many days should I spend in Rome?
A stay of three to four days is ideal for a first visit, allowing enough time to see iconic landmarks like the Colosseum, Vatican Museums, and major historic plazas. If you have five to seven days, you can explore quieter neighborhoods like Monti and Testaccio at a more relaxed pace.
What is the best way to get around Rome?
Rome's historic centre is compact and best navigated on foot, as many sights are close together along narrow streets. For longer trips across the city, the Metro system features two main lines connecting key stops like Termini Station, the Colosseum, and the Vatican. Local buses fill in remaining routes, though road traffic can slow trips during peak hours.
When is the best time of year to visit Rome?
Spring (April to May) and autumn (September to October) offer mild weather and pleasant temperatures for outdoor sightseeing. Summer brings intense heat and large tourist crowds, while winter offers cooler weather, shorter daytime hours, and shorter lines at popular attractions.
Do I need to book attraction tickets in advance?
Yes, booking tickets online in advance is strongly recommended for major sights such as the Colosseum, Vatican Museums, and Galleria Borghese. Timed-entry slots often sell out weeks ahead during peak travel months, so advance booking saves time and guarantees admission.
Is Rome a good destination for a family holiday?
Rome is welcoming for families, featuring pedestrian-friendly squares, open-air ruins, and frequent gelato shops. While pushing pushchairs over ancient cobblestones requires extra care, major sites offer good accessibility and green spaces like Villa Borghese give children room to rest and play.
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