Things to do in Rome
There is so much to see & do in Rome that it can be daunting when trying to create your holiday itinerary. Rely on our handy guide of things to do in Rome!
Best things to do in Rome
1. Colosseum
Up to 50,000 people at a time used to flock to Rome’s famous amphitheater to sit in 3 stacked tiers of seats and watch gladiators perform, enjoy exciting if gory animal hunts and bloody executions. The Colosseum was originally built by the emperor Vespasian around AD 80 – and its design is still considered a masterpiece of engineering. A huge canvas awning used to protect spectators from the sun as they watched the performers below them in the sand-covered arena. There was a maze of corridors (called the ‘hypogeum’) underneath the arena where animals were kept and gladiators would get ready to appear. You can see this subterranean area on a guided tour, but make sure to book well in advance. As it’s one of Rome’s most popular sights, you’ll find it’s always crowded. So book in advance, either online or at the Palatine. Your tickets will cover the Colosseum as well as the Palatine and Roman Forum.
Near the Colosseum you’ll find the Palatine, believed to be where Romulus founded Rome in 753 BC. These famous ruins were once the city’s fanciest neighbourhood, where the wealthy and the country’s generals had their homes. Most of the ruins belong to emperor Domitian’s 1st-century palace. You can see his stadium, home and where Augustus’ wife lived – and there’s a little museum with displays of items found amongst the ruins. Note: The Palatine is covered by the same ticket as the Colosseum and Roman Forum.
3. Roman Forum
These famous ruins were once the heart of ancient Rome, an area that stretched from the Colosseum all the way to Capitoline Hill. It was once filled with beautiful temples, busy piazzas and official buildings, and is now mostly ruins, although there are some well-preserved buildings, including the triumphal arch belonging to Saptami’s Severus. Further along towards the Colosseum you’ll find the Temple of Caesar where Caesar was cremated after his murder in 44 BC. Note: The Roman Forum is covered by the same ticket as the Colosseum and Palatine Hill.
Apparently these public museums are the oldest in the world, and they’re certainly worth visiting as they’re home to an extraordinary collection of classical art masterpieces and sculpture. They are situated in 2 elegant buildings right next to another old palazzo housing Rome’s City Hall. Palazzo dei Conservatori is full of giant marble body parts in its outside courtyard, and is home to several famous artworks including Bernini’s bust of Medusa. On the second floor there’s a picture gallery displaying some exquisite pieces by the likes of Titian and Rubens. Take the underground passage to the other building, Palazzo Nuovo, which is filled with glorious sculptures.
5. Victor Emmanuel Monument
Dominating Rome’s skyline, this tall white monument built to celebrate Italian unification and honor Italy’s first king isn’t one of the locals’ favorite sights. In fact, they say that the viewing platform is the only place where the monument isn’t visible. It’s worth taking the lift to the top to see the panoramic views. In the cavernous interior you can view the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. A number of art exhibitions are also held there.
6. Bocca della Verità
You can’t tell a lie when you’re in Rome, because you may just get caught out! Legend has it that if you put your hand in the Bocca della Verità (the Mouth of Truth) and tell a lie, the mouth will slam shut and bite your hand off. The mouth we’re talking about belongs to an old man whose image is carved into a round marble disc in the entrance of the Chiesa di Santa Maria in Cosmedin. It was probably once part of an ancient fountain.
This towering red brick building is the most spectacular of the Imperial Forums. Nobody knows what it used to be – some believe it was once a shopping area, whilst others say it was used as administrative offices. Today the Mercati di Traiano houses a museum that offers an insight into the Imperial Forum’s history and architecture. The building is actually more fascinating than its displays, and there are superb views from the top.
8. Piazza Navona
This famous piazza in the heart of Rome’s historic center has a strange elongated oval shape that mirrors the 1st-century stadium, Domitian’s ancient stadium, below it. It’s lined with gorgeous palaces and there are 3 fountains in the center, including the spectacular Fountain of the Four Rivers designed by Bernini. The church located here, the Chiesa di Sant’Agnese in Agone, was created by Bernini’s rival, Francesco Borromini, who was also responsible for the elegant palazzo at the end of the square that now houses the Brazilian Embassy.
9. Pantheon
One of Rome’s most spectacular ruins and an architectural feat, this ancient temple was built by emperor Hadrian around AD 125. Originally dedicated to the gods in Roman mythology, it was consecrated as a Christian church in 608. It houses 3 famous tombs, 2 belonging to Italian kings – Vittorio Emmanuel II and Umberto I – as well as the tomb of Renaissance artist Raphael.
10. Church of Saint Louis of the French
This historic church belongs to the city’s French community and houses some exquisite works of art including the famous masterpieces by Caravaggio known as the ‘St Matthew Cycle’. There are some other important works here too, including gorgeous frescoes by Domenichino.
11. Campo de’ Fiori
The site of a traditional morning market selling fresh produce, this vibrant square is also the place to go for a good lunch. In the evenings, a lively young crowd comes to enjoy the atmosphere and have a drink.
Don’t rush past this busy transport center; stop awhile and enjoy the square’s historic sights that include the sunken area in the middle called the Area Sacra, which is apparently where Brutus and his co-conspirators stabbed Julius Caesar to death in 44BC. There are also 4 temples here, the oldest dating back to the 3rd century BC. The entire historic area is also home to a colony of cats looked after by a Cat Sanctuary run by volunteers. On the western side of the square is the popular Teatro Argentina, which holds regular classical concerts and events.
13. Piazza di Spagna & the Spanish Steps
No list of the best things to do in Rome would be complete without the city's most famous staircase. It is where people come to rest and look over busy Piazza di Spagna before climbing to the top to visit the famous church, Trinità dei Monti. At the foot of the Spanish Steps is the fountain, the Barcaccia, that depicts a sunken boat, and to the right of the Steps is the house where poet John Keats spent his last months. Close by is Rome’s famous shopping street, the Via dei Condotti. The Steps are at their most photogenic in Spring when they are decorated with hundreds of pots of colourful azaleas.
Located at what used to be Rome’s main northern entrance, Piazza del Popolo is home to 2 important churches, Santa Maria dei Miracoli and Santa Maria in Montesanto. The square is also the point linking 3 of Rome’s main roads – the Via del Corso, Via del Babuino and Via Ripetta, which is the reason the area is called the Tridente (Trident). On one side of the square is a gate, the Porta del Popolo, designed by Bernini. Today, the piazza is still as lively as it used to be in ancient times when public executions were carried out, although more recent events – concerts and political rallies - are a lot more cheerful.
This church is a hidden gem and home to some incredible art including masterpieces by the likes of Pinturicchio, who painted exquisite frescoes in the apse. Raphael designed the Chigi Chapel, which was later completed by Bernini (he added the statues of Daniel and Habakkuk), and there are 2 exquisite Caravaggio paintings to the left of the main altar.
16. The Altar of the Peace of Augustus
This tiny museum is a treasure trove full of ancient art including the famous classical sculpture, Altar to the Augustan Peace, an immense marble altar created in 9 BC to honor emperor Augustus, who had established peace at that time.
17. Trevi Fountain
Legend has it that if you toss a coin into Rome’s most celebrated fountain, you will return to Rome one day. Every day, around €3,000 is tossed into the fountain, and later collected and donated to charity. The Trevi Fountain took 30 years to build; it was only completed in 1762. Designed by artist Nicola Salvi, it’s so huge that it fills the entire side of the 17th-century Palazzo Poli.
The most important church in the Catholic world and the centrepiece of The Vatican, St Peter’s Basilica took around 120 years to build and is certainly a must-see fixture when looking for the best things to do in Rome. A number of top architects and artists worked on it, including Michelangelo, who sculpted the statue of the Pietà just inside its main entrance as well as the stunning dome in St Peter’s Basilica as well as Bernini, who was responsible for the canopy over the main altar. Underneath the church are Vatican grottoes to explore as well as St Peter’s Tomb, which you can visit if you book beforehand. Make sure to dress appropriately when visiting the church – legs and shoulders must be covered.
19. Vatican Museums
One of the greatest museums in the world, the Vatican Museums house a selection of breathtaking artworks collected over the centuries by a succession of popes. It’s also home to the magnificent Sistine Chapel. As it’s a very popular attraction, it’s a good idea to plan ahead and book tickets online. Alternatively, visit when it’s quieter, on Tuesday or Thursday afternoons. There is so much to see in this vast complex, you’ll probably have to visit a few times. Even if you rush through the sights, you’ll need at least 3 hours to explore. On your first visit make sure to see some of the museum’s highlights, starting with the Sistine Chapel, home to 2 incredible Michelangelo masterpieces – that legendary ceiling fresco and the Last Judgement. Then take a look at the sculptures in the Museo Pio-Clementino and Raphael’s magnificent fresco, The School of Athens.
The historic Castel Sant’Angelo was originally built in 139 AD as a mausoleum for emperor Hadrian and was later fortified and taken over by the papacy. In fact, various popes sought refuge there. Today it’s one of Rome’s most popular museums, boasting sumptuous papal apartments as well as spectacular views from the terrace.
The oldest of Rome’s papal basilicas, this landmark is the Pope’s seat as the Bishop of Rome. It’s been remodelled a number of times throughout its history, the last time being in 1735. Boasting an exquisite 13th century mosaic floor and gilded ceiling, as well as a Gothic canopy containing the heads of saints Peter and Paul, the basilica is also famous for its gorgeous 13th century enclosed garden.
Near the Colosseum you’ll find this charming 12th-century basilica that has plenty of history attached to it. A church was built over the original 2nd-century pagan temple in the 4th century and then this 12th century basilica was built on top of that. The remains of all 3 buildings are located here, including some 11th century frescoes and a Mithraic altar dating back to the 2nd century.
A magnificent treasure trove of Renaissance and baroque art, this popular museum is often packed, so it’s best to book before you come, either online or by phone. The stunning collection was compiled by Cardinal Scipione Borghese, who built a mansion to house everything called the Casino Borghese. On the ground floor, look out for a painting of Napoleon’s sister, Paolina Bonaparte created by Antonio Canova, some superb Bernini sculptures and masterpieces by Caravaggio. The most famous painting in the museum is found on the first floor – it’s Titian’s Sacred and Profane Love, which rubs shoulders with a number of noteworthy masterpieces.
24. Villa Borghese
A great place to unwind, Rome’s lush 80-hectare park was once the 17th-century estate of Cardinal Scipione Borghese. There are some great attractions here, including the Giardino del Lago, a small lake where you can hire rowing boats and paddle around, as well as a stunning viewing balcony on Pincio Hill and scenic Piazza di Siena. You’ll find some excellent museums dotted around the park, including the Borghese Galleries. You can also hire bicycles from various points around the park.
25. The Villa Giulia National Etruscan Museum
Another excellent museum nearby on the edge of Villa Borghese park is the Villa Giulia National Etruscan Museum. It’s worth exploring and offers Etruscan displays including gold jewellery, ceramics, vases and bronzeware, all housed in an elegant Renaissance mansion.
26. The Appian Way
The most famous highway in the ancient world, the Appian Way was about 540km long and connected Rome with the port of Brindisi on the Adriatic Sea. The road’s oldest section, from Rome to Capua near Naples, was initially laid in the 4th century BC. The road was later extended and completed in 190 BC. Parts of the original road still survives – you’ll recognize the original parts as they are heavy paving stones.
27. Catacombs
Beneath the Appian Way lie the catacombs, subterranean tunnels built by early Christians to bury their dead in the 2nd Century AD. Of the 300km of catacombs, there are 2 you can visit – the 2nd-century Catacombe di San Callisto, official cemetery of the early Roman Church, and the Catacombe di San Sebastiano, a long network underneath the basilica of the same name. Make sure to explore the basilica as well – it was built on the site where St Sebastian was buried. Take a special guided tour of the catacombs – it’s the only way to see them, because you wouldn’t want to get lost down there!
28. National Museum of Ancient Art – Palazzo Barberini
The 17th-century palace, Palazzo Barberini, was designed by Bellini and his arch-rival Borromini. Inside, on the first floor, you’ll discover an awesome art collection belonging to the National Museum of Ancient Art comprising some incredible Renaissance and baroque artworks. Look out for the famous painting by Raphael of his mistress, the Fornarina, a Carvaggio masterpiece, as well as Pietro da Cortona’s incredible fresco, Triumph of Divine Providence.
29. National Roman Museum: Palazzo Massimo alle Terme
Another hidden gem, Rome’s National Roman Museum is worth visiting to see some exceptional works of ancient art. On the ground and first floors you’ll find some classical sculptures and look out for some extraordinary mosaics and frescoes on the second floor. Note: The entry ticket to this museum also offers admission to the other 3 seats of the National Roman Museum.
In this basilica you’ll find a huge sculpture of Moses by Michelangelo created in 1515 as well as a chain that’s considered an historic miracle – it’s located under the altar. This is the chain worn by St Peter; it was originally 2 separate pieces, one worn by St Peter when he was in Rome’s Mamertine prison and a second used to inter him in Jerusalem. Apparently they miraculously joined together.
One of Rome’s oldest churches that dates back to the 5th century, Santa Maria Maggiore sits at the top of Esquiline Hill on the site of a miraculous snowfall that appeared in the middle of summer. It’s believed that Pope Liberio was told in a dream to build a church on the site where snow would fall. Snow did fall and the basilica was built – and so, every year August 5, hundreds of white petals are released from the top of this basilica to re-enact the snowfall. A number of popes are buried in the basilica as well as famous baroque artist Gian Lorenzo Bernini.
You’ll find Rome’s 16th century presidential palace on the top of Quirinal Hill. It was originally used as the pope’s summer residence but is now the official seat of Italy’s president. A number of famous architects designed the palazzo, including Bernini – he added the long wing that is called ‘manica lunga’, the ‘long sleeve’. It’s vital to book in advance if you want to visit and see it’s the sumptuous reception rooms and famous Grand Ballroom.
Rome’s oldest basilica and a best-kept secret, this 4th century basilica in Trastevere is dedicated to the Virgin Mary, built on the site where a fountain of oil miraculously sprung from the ground. Later rebuilt in the 12th century, the basilica boasts some glorious mosaics.
In this grey palazzo’s opulent interior is an incredible private art collection that includes works by the likes of Titian, Raphael, Tintoretto and Carvaggio, plus a number of Flemish painters. The building is the historic residence of the Doria-Pamphilj family, hence the name of the museum. The most famous masterpiece on display is a lifelike portrait by Velázquez of Pope Innocent X, who was a family member. There’s also a bust of the Pope by Bernini.
35. Caracalla Baths
Take time out to explore the remains of emperor Caracalla’s enormous complex of 3rd-century baths. In its heyday up to 1,600 people at a time used to visit its numerous swimming pools, gyms, libraries, galleries, shops and gardens. In the summer months, opera performances are held in the ruins. Book ahead to enjoy these.
Also called Rome’s Protestant Cemetery, this walled graveyard is where many famous people were buried, including Romantic poets Keats and Shelley. Sit on a bench in this tranquil spot with its carefully tended gravestones and enjoy the solitude.
37. National Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art
Take a break from visiting ancient ruins and churches and head for this superb modern art museum called GNAM (Galleria Nazionale d’Arte Moderna), famous for housing Italy’s largest collection of modern art, including pieces by famous international artists. Aside from Italian masterpieces by the likes of Antonio Canova and Modigliani, you’ll find works by European masters such as Cézanne, Degas and Van Gogh. Global masters displayed here include Gustav Klimt and Jackson Pollock.
38. MAXXI
Rome’s famous contemporary art museum, MAXXI, the Museo Nazionale delle Arti del XXI Secolo, boasts a permanent collection as well as a variety of excellent temporary exhibitions that showcase avant-garde modern artists from around the world. To see what’s showing, check out the website. It’s housed in an extraordinary building, a military barracks that was transformed by famous architect Zaha Hadid into a magnificent modern masterpiece in its own right.
Rome’s avant-garde arts center is a modern concert venue created by innovative architect Renzo Piano. Performances are held either in the open-air theater or in 3 grey, pod-like halls. Although the Auditorium is home to Rome’s famous Santa Cecelia orchestra, rock, jazz and other music genres are also showcased here. The Rome Film Festival is held here every year, as are numerous exhibitions, lectures and other cultural events. You can also enjoy a guided tour of the Auditorium and visit the small museum on the premises.
Located outside the city center, this huge church is a popular pilgrimage site. It was originally built in the 4th century by emperor Constantine on the site where St Paul was buried. After a fire destroyed the church in 1823 it was rebuilt. It boasts some incredible artworks including 5th-century mosaics from the original basilica and an exquisite 13th-century cloister.
41. National Roman Museum: Diocletian Baths
This historic museum located in the remains of the Baths of Diocletian is full of fascinating finds. Built in the 4th century, these were ancient Rome’s largest and most spectacular baths complex. Today they house to the National Roman Museum as well as Michelangelo’s last architectural project, the Basilica of Santa Maria degli Angeli. Don’t miss the beautiful Michelangelo Cloister with its collection of sculptures, statues and ancient sarcophagi. Note: The museum’s entry ticket gives admission to the other 3 seats of the National Roman Museum.
This 13th century basilica is Rome’s only Gothic church, built on the site of a pagan temple dedicated to the goddess Minerva. It’s been rebuilt numerous times over the centuries and today is home to some superb artworks including a sculpture by Michelango depicting Christ Bearing the Cross. Look out for some stunning frescoes in the Carafa Chapel by Filippino Lippi. Apparently, St Catherine’s headless body is buried here (her head’s in Siena).
43. Chiesa del Gesù
The mother church of the Jesuits is an historic, opulent place. Founder of the Jesuit order, St Ignatius Loyola, lived here in the 16th century and you can see his rooms. Take a look at its plush interior and the exquisite ceiling fresco by Baciccia, as well as the altar in the chapel.
44. National Roman Museum: Palazzo Altemps
Take a look at the brilliant sculptures at the National Roman Museum – they are part of a collection created by Cardinal Ludovico Ludovisi in the 17th century. The collection includes the Ludovisi Ares, a sculpture of of the god Mars originally created in the 2nd century and later restored by Bernini, who added the right foot. Note: The museum’s entry ticket gives admission to the other 3 seats of the National Roman Museum.
45. The Tempietto
Located on Janiculum Hill, this small temple was considered an architectural masterpiece in its day. It’s located in a courtyard where it’s believed St Peter was crucified. It may be a steep climb to get to this little spot, but it’s worth it for the views.