The Best Things to See & Do in Rome Italy
Rome is referred to as the Eternal City, known for its incredible history and well-preserved ancient ruins. With so many landmarks & cultural experiences, you’ll need some help narrowing down how to best spend your time in the Italian Capital. Here’s a list of the best things to see & do in Rome, Italy!
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Welcome to Rome, the Italian capital that fascinates travelers with centuries of history. Delve into the city’s rich past at the Colosseum and Roman Forum, where echoes of ancient events resonate through time.
Embrace the serenity of an early morning stroll along the Spanish Steps, free from the bustling crowds. And don’t forget to make a wish by tossing a coin into the Trevi Fountain, ensuring that Rome will call you back someday.
While spontaneity has its allure in travel, there’s something deeply gratifying about arriving in a new destination well-prepared. Beyond the peace of mind it offers, careful planning can secure the best flight deals, your preferred accommodations, reservations at sought-after restaurants, and coveted tickets to local attractions.
In this guide, I’ll present a curated list of Rome’s finest experiences, inviting you to reflect on what you wish to encounter during your stay. Consider the costs, allocate your time wisely, and embark on this journey fully equipped to create cherished memories that will endure a lifetime.
Best Things to See & Do in Rome
Use this guide to create a list of your top highlights for visiting Rome. With your personalized list, you can make a budget and itinerary, turning your dream vacation into a reality. Planning the trip is almost as exciting as the journey itself. All that will be left to do is pack your bags and decide where to go first in the Eternal City!
1. Colosseum
Your journey through Rome’s treasures should undoubtedly begin with the Colosseum, an iconic symbol of Roman engineering and entertainment. This ancient amphitheater once hosted gladiator battles and grand spectacles.
As you stand amidst its towering arches, you can almost feel the echoes of history. Be sure to explore the nearby Roman Forum and Palatine Hill, where you can discover even more ancient ruins and fascinating stories of Roman life.
2. Vatican City
No trip to Rome would be complete without a visit to the Vatican City, the world’s smallest independent state and the spiritual heart of the Roman Catholic Church. Explore St. Peter’s Basilica, an architectural masterpiece, and don’t miss the awe-inspiring Vatican Museums, home to the world-famous Sistine Chapel, adorned with Michelangelo’s breathtaking frescoes.
3. Pantheon
The Pantheon, one of the best-preserved ancient Roman buildings, is an architectural marvel. Its massive dome, with its iconic oculus, creates an otherworldly atmosphere inside. The Pantheon was originally built as a temple to the gods and is now a place of contemplation and admiration for its engineering and design.
4. Spanish Steps
The Spanish Steps are a monumental stairway connecting the Piazza di Spagna at the base to the Trinita dei Monti church at the top. Stroll down the Spanish Steps, a famous gathering place and a remarkable example of Roman Baroque architecture.
This area is filled with designer shops (Armani, Prada, Versace, Gucci, Dolce & Gabbana) and some of the most expensive hotels in Rome. Enjoy wandering the narrow streets and alleyways nearby.
5. Trevi Fountain
Trevi Fountain is the largest fountain in Rome and one of the most famous worldwide. Arrive early in the morning if you want to beat the crowds.
Toss a coin over your left shoulder into the fountain to ensure your return to Rome, a tradition that has enchanted visitors for centuries. Donations are collected by Caritas Roma, a local charity that helps support poor and homeless communities in Rome.
6. Piazza Navona
Piazza Navona is another picturesque square in Rome, known for its beautiful fountains and lively atmosphere. The central Fontana dei Quattro Fiumi, designed by Gian Lorenzo Bernini, is a true masterpiece.
Enjoy a leisurely stroll and perhaps stop at one of the many cafes and restaurants surrounding the square. Here you will find many street performers, art vendors, portrait painters and musicians. Piazza Navona is best known today as a great place to eat, hang out and people watch.
7. Circus Maximus
Close your eyes and imagine the roar of the crowd as chariots thundered around the Circus Maximus. Although the ancient stadium is now a tranquil park, you can still sense the echoes of its glorious past.
Circus Maximus is free to enter and is located about 15-minute walking distance from the Colosseum and Roman Forum.
8. Trastevere District
Cross the Tiber River into the charming neighborhood of Trastevere, known for its bohemian vibe and colorful streets. Explore hidden squares, artisan shops, and indulge in authentic Roman trattorias that serve up some of the city’s best pasta dishes. Learn more on a Trastevere Food Tour.
Rome is a city where every cobblestone street, every ancient ruin, and every delicious meal tells a story. Its rich history, art, and culture are bound to captivate your heart and leave you longing to return.
As you explore the best things to see and do in Rome, Italy, remember to take your time, immerse yourself in the local culture, and savor every moment in this remarkable city. Rome truly is the eternal jewel of Italy.
Day Trips from Rome
Rome is the gateway to nearby day-trip destinations. Spend some time visiting a different city, with new foods, cultural experiences and historical sites. Base yourself in Rome and check out these must-see Italian cities.
1. Naples
Naples is considered the birthplace of Italian pizza. No trip here would be complete without tasting a delicious slice from an authentic Neapolitan pizzeria!
Make sure to capture a photo of the Bay of Naples with Mount Vesuvius looming in the distance. Day trips to Naples are often paired with guided tours to the ancient ruins of Pompeii.
2. Pompeii & Mount Vesuvius
Visit the intact remains of the Roman town of Pompeii and climb Mount Vesuvius, the volcano that destroyed it. The volcanic eruption that decimated Pompeii occurred in the year 79 AD.
Mount Vesuvius is an active volcano, however it’s unknown when it will erupt again. It’s considered one of Europe’s most dangerous volcanoes due to the 3 million+ people that live in its immediate vicinity!
3. Amalfi Coast & Positano
Take a break from the busy streets of Rome and spend the day discovering the beauty of the Amalfi Coast. Enjoy time at the charming villages of Positano & Amalfi, exploring the local shops, restaurants and beaches.
Take a boat cruise to get a unique perspective of the rugged cliffs and colourful architecture from the water. Make sure to try the delicious local liquor: Lemoncello!
How to Save Money in Rome
Traveling to Rome is a dream for many, but it’s no secret that it can be a costly endeavor. However, with a little savvy planning and some insider tips, you can experience the delights of Rome without breaking the bank.
From budget-friendly accommodation options to low-cost transportation choices, here are some of the best ways to ensure your Roman holiday is not only memorable but also affordable.
1. Purchase a Roma Pass
The Roma Pass offers visitors free entry and priority access to one museum or archeological site of your choice. Purchasers will enjoy reduced ticket prices for all other museums and/or archeological sites visited thereafter.
The pass also includes free use of the city’s public transport system, and discounts on services and activities. The Roma Pass is valid for 48 or 72 hours (2-3 days duration).
Purchase your Roma Pass here.
2. Purchase a Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour
Rome is a walkable city, but as temperatures soar during the summer season, it may be more comfortable and convenient to get around by bus.
Choose to purchase a Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour. These bus routes have been created specifically for tourists, stopping at all the major landmarks in Rome while providing audio commentary. Select a one, two or three-day pass to suit your itinerary.
Rome Hop-on Hop-Off Bus Tour tickets can be purchased here.
3. Stay in Hostels
If you are looking for budget-friendly accommodation, hostels are a great option. Typically, the more people sharing a dormitory the cheaper the cost. It’s also possible to select your room based on gender (male, female or mixed) if you have a preference.
If you are travelling as a couple or with a friend, many hostels also have private room options, which typically cost less than a standard hotel room. You may have to share a bathroom with other guests.
Hostels often include kitchens, where you have the option to cook your own meals to save money. Hostel staff regularly organize events, such as low-cost cooking classes or city tours, for their guests. Get free access to local advice and insider tips about things to see and places to visit that you may never have found on your own.
Many hostels are located in the city centre, within walking distance to main attractions. This may help to save money on transportation costs. Staff are typically onsite at all times for added security. Hostel accommodation typically includes lockers or a secured place to store valuables and belongings.
Hostel common areas are a great location to meet people from all over the world. Share travel stories and create new friendships. This will add value to your experience in a new city!
Book your accommodation in Rome with Hostelworld here.
4. Purchase Travel Insurance
As much as we don’t like to think about it, things can and do go wrong while travelling. Have some peace of mind knowing that you are covered by insurance if something unexpected happens, such an injury, illness or lost luggage.
SafetyWing is a global travel medical insurance company designed to meet the needs of travellers from all over the world. If you have already left home, it’s not too late to protect yourself. You can still purchase insurance while abroad.
Consider purchasing SafetyWing Travel Insurance for your next trip. You can use the booking widget below to get a quote:
Start Booking Your Trip
Use the helpful resources below to start booking your trip to Rome, Italy!
- Reserve your accommodation with Hotels.com or Hostelworld.
- Book your rental car with Discover Cars.
- Book your flight with SkyScanner.
- Book tours with Get Your Guide.
- Traveling Solo? Book a Group Tour with G Adventures.
- Buy Travel Insurance with SafetyWing or World Nomads.
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