Rome, the Eternal City, is a blend of ancient history, beautiful architecture, and rich culture. Stepping into this city for the first time can feel like entering a vast museum where history and modern life exist side by side.
To help you navigate through all the sights and experiences, here’s a guide to the 15 best things to do in Rome that you absolutely can’t miss.
1. Explore the Colosseum
The Colosseum is one of the most iconic landmarks in the world, a symbol of Ancient Rome’s grandeur.
Built between 72-80 AD under Emperor Vespasian and completed by his son, Titus, the Colosseum hosted gladiator battles, animal hunts, and even public executions.
Standing in this massive amphitheater, imagining the roaring crowds and intense spectacles of the past, is truly an awe-inspiring experience.
For the best experience, consider booking a guided tour that includes skip-the-line tickets and access to the arena and underground chambers.
This will give you the full picture of how the Colosseum functioned, including the tunnels used by gladiators and wild animals.
2. Visit the Pantheon
The Pantheon is an architectural masterpiece that has withstood the test of time. Originally built by Agrippa around 27 BC and later reconstructed by Emperor Hadrian around 126 AD, this building is now one of the best-preserved structures from Ancient Rome.
It’s been in continuous use throughout history, serving as a temple and now as a Catholic church.
The Pantheon’s dome, with its iconic oculus, is one of the largest in the world. If you visit during a rainstorm, you can see the water pour through the hole, creating a beautiful and unique sight.
Also, don’t forget to visit the tombs of several Italian kings and the famous artist Raphael.
3. Stroll Through St. Peter’s Square
Located in Vatican City, St. Peter’s Square is one of the most breathtaking places in Rome.
The massive square, designed by Gian Lorenzo Bernini, was created to welcome visitors to the Vatican.
At the heart of the square stands an ancient Egyptian obelisk, and surrounding it are grand colonnades, symbolizing the embrace of the Church.
From here, you can visit St. Peter’s Basilica, the world’s largest church and the spiritual center of Roman Catholicism.
Whether you’re attending a Mass or simply taking in the beauty of the square, it’s an unforgettable experience.
4. Toss a Coin Into the Trevi Fountain
The Trevi Fountain is one of Rome’s most famous and beloved landmarks. Completed in 1762, this baroque masterpiece is known for its stunning sculptures and its role in countless films, most famously “La Dolce Vita.”
According to tradition, if you throw a coin into the fountain over your left shoulder, it guarantees your return to Rome. I’ve done it, and I can vouch for the magic!
The fountain itself is a marvel of art and engineering, with figures representing the gods of the sea, Oceanus, and his horses, as well as Neptune’s chariot.
It’s a must-see, especially in the evening when the fountain is beautifully lit.
5. Explore the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel
If you’re an art lover, the Vatican Museums are a treasure trove of history and culture.
The museums house one of the most extensive and valuable collections of art in the world, including works by Michelangelo, Raphael, and Leonardo da Vinci.
Of course, the highlight is the Sistine Chapel, with its world-renowned ceiling painted by Michelangelo. Don’t forget to spend some time soaking in Raphael’s famous frescoes in the Raphael Rooms.
Booking a guided tour or skip-the-line tickets will help you navigate the museums more efficiently and maximize your experience.
6. Walk Through the Roman Forum
The Roman Forum was the center of life in Ancient Rome. Here, political debates, gladiator battles, and religious ceremonies took place, making it one of the most important areas in the Roman Empire.
Today, it’s a sprawling archaeological site filled with ruins, temples, and ancient monuments.
A guided tour can give you a deeper understanding of this fascinating historical site, pointing out structures like the Temple of Saturn, the Senate House, and the Arch of Titus.
7. Climb the Spanish Steps
The Spanish Steps are another iconic landmark in Rome, leading from Piazza di Spagna to the Trinità dei Monti church.
These steps, built in the 18th century, offer a wonderful view of the city and are a great spot for people-watching.
At the base of the steps, you’ll find the Barcaccia Fountain, a beautiful baroque piece designed by Bernini.
The area around the Spanish Steps is also perfect for shopping, with boutiques lining the streets.
The steps are often crowded, so visiting early in the morning or late in the evening will give you a more peaceful experience.
8. Visit Palatine Hill
Palatine Hill is one of Rome’s seven hills and is steeped in history. According to Roman legend, this is where Romulus and Remus were found by the she-wolf, marking the birthplace of Rome.
The hill later became the site of the imperial palaces, and you can still see the ruins of palaces that were once home to emperors like Augustus and Tiberius.
A visit to Palatine Hill offers stunning views of the Roman Forum and the surrounding city. It’s a great spot to reflect on Rome’s fascinating history.
9. Go on a Food Tour
Rome’s cuisine is world-renowned, and what better way to experience it than through a food tour? Rome’s historic districts, like Trastevere and the Jewish Quarter, are perfect places to sample authentic Roman dishes.
Expect to try delicious street food like supplì (fried rice balls) and pizza al taglio (pizza by the slice), along with traditional dishes like cacio e pepe and amatriciana pasta.
A food tour is not only about tasting great food but also about learning about the history and culture behind each dish.
10. Row a Boat in Villa Borghese Gardens
If you’re looking for a peaceful escape from the bustling streets of Rome, head to Villa Borghese Gardens, a large public park in the heart of the city.
Here, you can rent a rowboat and paddle around the serene lake, or explore the gardens on a bike or in a golf cart.
The park is also home to several museums, including the Galleria Borghese, where you can admire works by artists like Bernini and Caravaggio.
11. Take a Pasta-Making Class
Italian food is one of the highlights of any trip to Rome, and what better way to immerse yourself in the culture than by learning how to make pasta?
Join a local chef for a hands-on pasta-making class, where you’ll learn how to prepare traditional dishes like fettuccine and ravioli, paired with authentic sauces like amatriciana or cacio e pepe.
It’s a fun and educational way to take a piece of Rome home with you.
12. Discover the Capitoline Museums
The Capitoline Museums are the world’s first public museums, located on Piazza del Campidoglio.
They offer a fascinating collection of Roman art and artifacts, including the famous Capitoline Wolf and the statue of Marcus Aurelius.
The museum complex also has panoramic views of the Roman Forum.
13. Admire the Art at Galleria Doria Pamphili
Galleria Doria Pamphili is a hidden gem in Rome, offering a collection of art and gallery features works by Caravaggio, Velázquez, and other Italian masters.
The gallery is housed in a amazing palace, and it’s still owned by the Doria Pamphili family.
This is the perfect place If you’re looking to escape the crowds and enjoy some quiet art exploration,
14. Explore Vicus Caprarius
Vicus Caprarius is an ancient site that was once a water tank and residential area in Ancient Rome.
Today, it’s a place where you can learn more about the history of the area, especially the connection to the famous fountain.
it’s a great way to experience a quieter side of Rome’s history. But is often overlooked by tourists.
15. Visit MAXXI – National Museum of 21st Century Arts
A visit to MAXXI (National Museum of the 21st Century Arts) is a must. The museum’s architecture is as impressive as the art inside.
The museum showcases contemporary works from both Italian and international artists.
Rome is a city where every corner holds a piece of history, and every street leads to something new and amazing.
If you’re wandering through ancient ruins, admiring world-class art, or indulging in local cuisine, there are amazing things to do in this timeless city
