15 Best Things to Do in Rome – Must-See Attractions

Are you planning a trip to Rome and wondering what the best things to do are? You’ve come to the right place!

With so many cool places to see and fun things to do in Rome, it’s easy to feel a little overwhelmed. You might be worried about missing something really awesome because you don’t know where to start.

Zack and I spent seven days in Italy for our anniversary, so we had a lot of things on our to-do list.

I’m here to help you find the best activities and sights, so you can enjoy Rome without any stress.

This guide is perfect for anyone who wants to make sure they experience all the best things Rome has to offer.

If you need some visual inspiration, add some of these movies set in Italy to your watchlist while you plan your trip!

Rome is full of amazing places, and it can be tough to decide what to do first. That’s why I’ve put together this list of the best things to do in Rome for first timers, so you can have the most fun and make the most of your trip.

This guide is based on my personal experience, recommendations from locals, and research from reputable travel sources.

Top Rome tourist attractions for sightseeing

1. Visit the Colosseum – Step Inside Ancient Rome’s Iconic Arena

📍 Location: Piazza del Colosseo, Rome, Italy
⏳ Time Needed: 1.5–2 hours
🎟 Best Way to Visit: Skip-the-line ticket or a guided tour

During my visit to the Colosseum in May, I was struck by the sheer scale of the arena. Arriving at 8 AM allowed me to explore before the crowds, and hiring a local guide provided insights into the lesser-known aspects of its history.

The Colosseum is the symbol of Ancient Rome—an engineering marvel and the world’s largest amphitheater. Gladiators once battled for survival here, and walking through its ruins is a powerful, almost cinematic experience.

Built in 72 AD under Emperor Vespasian and completed in 80 AD, the Colosseum could hold 50,000 spectators. It wasn’t just for gladiator battles—there were also mock naval battles (naumachiae), where the arena was flooded with water! A unique feature was the velarium, a retractable awning that shaded the audience, showcasing the Romans’ advanced engineering skills.”

Why You Should Visit:

• Stand in the footsteps of gladiators and emperors.
• Marvel at the underground tunnels where wild animals were kept.
• Learn about Rome’s brutal yet fascinating entertainment history.

Pro Tip: Book a guided tour to access areas not open to the public, like the arena floor and underground chambers.

The Colosseum’s underground, called the Hypogeum, is where gladiators and wild animals were kept before battles. It featured an elaborate system of elevators and trapdoors to surprise audiences. Booking a special-access tour allows you to explore these hidden areas, which most visitors miss

2. Explore the Roman Forum & Palatine Hill – Walk Through Rome’s Ancient Heart

📍 Location: Via della Salara Vecchia, Rome, Italy
⏳ Time Needed: 2–3 hours
🎟 Best Way to Visit: Combine with a Colosseum tour

The Roman Forum was once the center of political, religious, and social life in Ancient Rome. As you wander through centuries-old temples, arches, and basilicas, it’s easy to imagine toga-clad senators debating Rome’s future.

Nearby, Palatine Hill is where legend says Romulus founded Rome in 753 BC. It’s also home to the ruins of imperial palaces, offering spectacular views of the city.

Pro Tip: Visit in the late afternoon for fewer crowds and golden-hour views.

3. Marvel at St. Peter’s Basilica– The Crown Jewel of Vatican City

📍 Location: St. Peter’s Square, Vatican City
⏳ Time Needed: 1–1.5 hours (longer if climbing the dome)
🎟 Cost: Free entry, but dome access requires a ticket

No visit to Rome is complete without stepping inside St. Peter’s Basilica, the largest and most stunning church in the world. Designed by Michelangelo, Bernini, and Bramante, it’s a masterpiece of Renaissance architecture.

Must-See Highlights:
✔ Michelangelo’s Pietà – A breathtaking marble sculpture of Mary and Jesus.
✔ Bernini’s Baldachin – A stunning bronze canopy over the main altar.
✔ Climb the Dome – The best panoramic view of Rome awaits at the top!

Pro Tip: Dress modestly (covered shoulders and knees) to enter.

4. See Michelangelo’s Masterpiece in the Sistine Chapel

📍 Location: Vatican Museums, Vatican City
⏳ Time Needed: 2–3 hours (Vatican Museums included)
🎟 Best Way to Visit: Skip-the-line ticket

According to the Vatican’s official website, the museums house over 70,000 works, with 20,000 on display.

Art historian Dr. Maria Rossi notes, ‘Michelangelo’s frescoes in the Sistine Chapel are not just art—they are a theological and philosophical masterpiece reflecting the Renaissance’s intellectual spirit.’

The Sistine Chapel is awe-inspiring beyond words. Michelangelo’s frescoes—including The Creation of Adam—cover the ceiling in unparalleled artistic brilliance.

Michelangelo initially refused the Sistine Chapel commission, as he considered himself a sculptor, not a painter. However, Pope Julius II insisted, and Michelangelo spent four years (1508-1512) creating the 9-panel masterpiece depicting Genesis. Contrary to popular belief, he painted standing, not lying down. Art historian Giorgio Vasari described it as ‘the most divine creation the world has ever seen.’

While most visitors rush to the Sistine Chapel, don’t miss the Raphael Rooms. Painted for Pope Julius II, these rooms feature ‘The School of Athens’, one of the most celebrated frescoes in the world. This masterpiece showcases figures like Plato and Aristotle, symbolizing the fusion of philosophy and art.

Pro Tip: No photos allowed inside, so take a moment to soak it all in.

5. Toss a Coin in the Trevi Fountain – A Must-Do Tradition

📍 Location: Piazza di Trevi, Rome, Italy
⏳ Time Needed: 15–30 minutes
🎟 Cost: Free

According to legend, tossing a coin over your left shoulder into the Trevi Fountain ensures a return trip to Rome. I followed the tradition— because, let’s be honest, who wouldn’t want to come back?

The famous coin-tossing tradition originated from the 1954 film ‘Three Coins in the Fountain’. Today, nearly €3,000 in coins are collected daily and donated to Caritas, a charity supporting Rome’s underprivileged. Want a guaranteed return to Rome? Follow tradition: one coin = return to Rome, two coins = finding love, three coins = marriage!

After tossing a coin into the fountain, grab a gelato at Gelateria Valentino, just a 2-minute walk away. Locals say it’s the best in town!

Have you tossed a coin into the Trevi Fountain? Share your wishes and experiences in the comments below!

Pro Tip: Visit at sunrise (around 7 AM) for stunning photos with no crowds.

6. Explore the Pantheon – Rome’s Best-Preserved Ancient Temple

📍 Location: Piazza della Rotonda, Rome, Italy
⏳ Time Needed: 30–45 minutes
🎟 Cost: Free

Built in 126 AD, the Pantheon remains the best-preserved Ancient Roman structure. Its massive concrete dome, featuring a 30-foot oculus, was an engineering marvel.

Did you know? The Pantheon has been in continuous use for over 1,800 years and was converted into a church in 609 AD, protecting it from destruction!

Dr. Maria Rossi, a Roman historian, notes, ‘The Pantheon’s design, with its massive dome and oculus, was an architectural revolution for its time and remains an inspiration for modern buildings.’

I found that stopping at Tazza d’Oro, just a minute away from the Pantheon, was the best way to enjoy a post-visit espresso like a true Roman!

7. Wander Through Piazza Navona – A Living Work of Art

📍 Location: Piazza Navona, Rome, Italy
⏳ Time Needed: 30–60 minutes
🎟 Cost: Free

Piazza Navona is Rome’s most elegant square, home to Bernini’s Fountain of the Four Rivers. It’s a bustling hub of artists, street performers, and alfresco cafés.

Pro Tip: Visit at night to experience live music.

8. Climb the Spanish Steps – One of Rome’s Most Photographed Spots

📍 Location: Piazza di Spagna, Rome, Italy
⏳ Time Needed: 15–30 minutes
🎟 Cost: Free

The Spanish Steps connect Piazza di Spagna with the Trinità dei Monti church. They’re a popular gathering spot and offer great views of the surrounding area.

The Spanish Steps are not only a tourist attraction but also a shopping district. The area around the steps is known for its luxury shops, boutiques, cafes, and art galleries.

While the Spanish Steps are often crowded, visiting early in the morning provides a peaceful experience. Nearby, the lesser-known Keats-Shelley Memorial House offers a quiet literary retreat.

Once the late afternoon hits, there are tons of people sitting throughout all the steps. You can also join a guided walking tour if you’d like to learn more on your visit.

Tip: Visit in the early morning or late evening to avoid the crowds and get better photos.

9. Explore the Vatican Museums

The Vatican Museums hold over 70,000 artworks, including the famous Raphael Rooms and the Laocoön sculpture. Visit the museum during the evening openings (Fridays & Saturdays) for fewer crowds and a more intimate experience with the Sistine Chapel.

Tip: Book tickets in advance to skip the lines and consider a guided tour to fully appreciate the art.

10. Walk Through Trastevere

📍 Location: Trastevere, Rome, Italy
⏳ Time Needed: 2–3 hours
🎟 Cost: Free

Trastevere is one of Rome’s most charming neighborhoods, known for its narrow cobblestone streets, colorful buildings, and vibrant nightlife. It’s a great area to explore for authentic Roman dining and local culture.

Beyond its lively piazzas and trattorias, Trastevere holds hidden gems only locals know. Grab a coffee at 📍 Libreria Fahrenheit 451, a cozy indie bookstore with a curated selection of Italian literature.

Hungry? Head to Trattoria Da Enzo for a plate of Spaghetti alla Carbonara, prepared the authentic Roman way. Trastevere’s history as an artisan district is still visible in its medieval alleyways, where craftsmen once thrived.

Must-See Highlights:
✔ Santa Maria in Trastevere – One of Rome’s oldest churches, dating back to the 4th century.
✔ Piazza Santa Maria – A lively square perfect for an afternoon espresso.
✔ Gianicolo Hill – One of the best panoramic viewpoints in the city.

Pro Tip: Join a Trastevere food tour for a true Roman culinary experience!

11. Visit the Catacombs

📍 Location: Via Appia Antica, Rome, Italy
⏳ Time Needed: 1.5–2 hours
🎟 Best Way to Visit: Guided tour

The Catacombs of Rome are ancient burial sites that offer a fascinating glimpse into early Christian history. The Catacombs of San Callisto and San Sebastiano are among the most famous.

These underground burial chambers, used by early Christians to avoid persecution, stretch for over 12 miles beneath Rome. Keep an eye out for ancient frescoes and burial niches.

Some visitors even report a ghostly presence in the dimly lit corridors—legend has it that spirits of early Christians still roam the tunnels!

Tip: Consider joining a guided tour to learn more about the history and significance of these underground tombs.

12. Visit Castel Sant’Angelo – Rome’s Fortress with a View

📍 Location: Lungotevere Castello, Rome, Italy
⏳ Time Needed: 1.5–2 hours
🎟 Cost: ~€14

Originally built as a mausoleum for Emperor Hadrian, Castel Sant’Angelo has served as a fortress, a papal residence, and now a museum. It offers panoramic views of Rome and a fascinating history.

We did not go inside Castel Sant’angelo because we were just leaving our tour of the Vatican. You really need to allot for the time to visit all of places throughout the city.

This is one of the places that Robert Langdon visits in the Angels and Demons movie!

13. Stroll Through Villa Borghese Gardens

📍 Location: Piazzale Napoleone I, Rome, Italy
⏳ Time Needed: 2–3 hours
🎟 Best Way to Visit: Reserve a timed entry ticket

Rome’s largest public park, Villa Borghese, is a peaceful escape from the city’s hustle. Rent a bike, take a boat ride on the lake, or simply relax among its lush gardens.

Inside the Borghese Gallery, you’ll find an astonishing collection of Renaissance and Baroque art, featuring Bernini’s sculptures and Caravaggio’s masterpieces.

14. Experience the Roman Culinary Scene

No trip to Rome is complete without diving into its incredible food scene. From handmade pasta to wood-fired pizza, every meal is a delicious experience.

For an authentic taste of Rome, visit Testaccio Market, where locals shop for fresh produce and street food. If you want a hands-on experience, book a Roman cooking class to learn how to make cacio e pepe or tiramisu from a local chef.”

Must-Try Roman Dishes:
✔ Cacio e Pepe – Creamy pasta with black pepper and Pecorino cheese.
✔ Carbonara – Rich pasta with egg, cheese, pancetta, and black pepper.
✔ Supplì – Fried rice balls stuffed with gooey mozzarella.
✔ Roman-style pizza – Thin, crispy, and absolutely addictive.

Pro Tip: Visit Testaccio Market for authentic, local street food.

15. Go on an Angels and Demons Walking Tour

If you’re a fan of Dan Brown’s Angels & Demons, this tour is a must. Follow Robert Langdon’s “Path of Illumination”, visiting famous landmarks like:

✔ Santa Maria della Vittoria – Home to Bernini’s Ecstasy of Saint Teresa.
✔ Piazza Navona – The setting for a dramatic scene in the novel.
✔ Castel Sant’Angelo – The climax of the story unfolds here.

Pro Tip: Even if you haven’t read the book, the historical insights on this tour are incredible!

Other Things Not to Miss in Rome

If you’ve already hit the top landmarks in Rome, here are more amazing places and experiences that you shouldn’t miss—especially if you want to go beyond the tourist hotspots and see a more authentic, local side of the Eternal City.

Basilica di San Clemente – A Church with Underground Layers

📍 Location: Via Labicana, 95, Rome
⏳ Time Needed: 45 min – 1 hour
🎟 Entry Fee: ~€10

Basilica di San Clemente is one of Rome’s most fascinating churches because it’s actually three churches in one! As you descend, you’ll discover:

• A 12th-century basilica with stunning mosaics.
• A 4th-century church buried below it.
• The remains of a 1st-century Roman house and a pagan temple at the bottom!

Few visitors know about the Vatican Necropolis, located directly beneath St. Peter’s Basilica. This underground burial site is believed to contain the tomb of Saint Peter himself. A limited number of tickets are available per day, so it’s best to book well in advance.

Pro Tip: If you love Rome’s underground sites, also check out San Giovanni in Laterano’s underground excavations!

Doria Pamphilj Gallery – A Hidden Art Palace

📍 Location: Via del Corso, 305, Rome
⏳ Time Needed: 1.5–2 hours
🎟 Entry Fee: ~€14

Rome’s most underrated art gallery, Doria Pamphilj Palace is still privately owned, and it’s an absolute hidden treasure trove of Baroque masterpieces.

✔ See Caravaggio’s most famous paintings up close.
✔ Walk through a stunning, gilded mirror hall.
✔ Admire Raphael, Titian, and Velázquez’s masterpieces.

Pro Tip: It’s rarely crowded, so you can enjoy the artwork in peace!

Palazzo Altemps – Ancient Rome’s Best-Kept Secret

📍 Location: Piazza di Sant’Apollinare, 46, Rome
⏳ Time Needed: 1 hour
🎟 Entry Fee: ~€8

Want to see ancient Roman statues without the crowds of the Vatican Museums? Palazzo Altemps is a stunning 16th-century palace filled with some of Rome’s most exquisite sculptures.

✔ See the Ludovisi Gaul, a breathtaking statue of a warrior.
✔ Explore an ancient Egyptian collection hidden in a Renaissance palace.
✔ Admire a beautiful Roman courtyard with frescoed ceilings.

Pro Tip: This museum is almost always empty, making it one of Rome’s most peaceful escapes!

The Orange Garden (Giardino degli Aranci) – A Hidden Viewpoint

📍 Location: Aventine Hill, Rome
⏳ Time Needed: 30–45 min
🎟 Cost: Free

Tucked away on the Aventine Hill, this small but magical garden offers one of the best panoramic views of Rome. It’s especially beautiful at sunset, with St. Peter’s Basilica glowing in the distance.

Pro Tip: Nearby, check out the Keyhole of the Knights of Malta—a secret peephole that perfectly frames St. Peter’s Dome!

Appian Way (Via Appia Antica) – The Oldest Roman Road

📍 Location: Just outside the city center
⏳ Time Needed: Half-day trip
🎟 Cost: Free to walk/bike; museum sites have small fees

The Appian Way is one of the oldest roads in Rome, built in 312 BC.

For a unique experience, rent a bike and cycle along the Appian Way, one of the oldest roads in Rome, dating back to 312 BC. The road is lined with ancient ruins, aqueducts, and catacombs, making it a perfect escape from the city crowds.

Today, it’s a peaceful escape from the city where you can:
✔ Walk or rent a bike along the ancient Roman road.
✔ See the Catacombs of St. Callixtus & St. Sebastian.
✔ Explore the Tomb of Cecilia Metella, an ancient Roman mausoleum.

Pro Tip: Sundays are car-free days, making it perfect for cycling!

Jewish Ghetto – Rome’s Culinary & Historical Gem

📍 Location: Near Piazza Venezia
⏳ Time Needed: 1–2 hours
🎟 Cost: Free to explore

Rome’s Jewish Ghetto is a fascinating neighborhood with a rich history and some of the best food in the city.

✔ See the Portico of Octavia & the Great Synagogue.
✔ Walk along charming streets lined with Kosher bakeries.
✔ Try the famous Roman-Jewish dish: Carciofi alla Giudia (Jewish-style fried artichokes).

Pro Tip: Get lost in the backstreets—this is one of the most picturesque areas in Rome!

Try a Roman Cooking Class 🍝

📍 Location: Various locations
⏳ Time Needed: 2.5–4 hours
🎟 Best Way to Experience: Book a hands-on cooking class

Learning to make fresh pasta, tiramisu, or pizza with a Roman chef is an unforgettable experience. Plus, you get to eat everything you make!

Pro Tip: Look for classes in Trastevere or Testaccio—they’re less touristy!

Take a Day Trip to Tivoli – Villas & Waterfalls 🌊

📍 Location: 30 min outside Rome
⏳ Time Needed: Half-day or full-day trip
🎟 Best Way to Visit: Take a guided day trip

Tivoli is a stunning escape from Rome, home to two UNESCO World Heritage Sites:
✔ Villa d’Este – A Renaissance villa with jaw-dropping fountains and gardens.
✔ Hadrian’s Villa (Villa Adriana) – The ruins of a luxurious Roman emperor’s retreat.

Pro Tip: Go early in the morning to avoid tour groups!

Visit Santa Maria della Vittoria – Home to Bernini’s Most Dramatic Sculpture

📍 Location: Via XX Settembre, Rome
⏳ Time Needed: 30 minutes
🎟 Cost: Free

This small but breathtaking church is home to Bernini’s masterpiece, The Ecstasy of Saint Teresa. The sculpture captures a mystical vision of Saint Teresa, and it’s one of the most beautiful works of art in Rome.

Fun Fact: This church is featured in Angels & Demons!

Explore Piazza Venezia & Climb the Victor Emmanuel Monument

📍 Location: Piazza Venezia, Rome
⏳ Time Needed: 1 hour
🎟 Cost: Free to enter, but elevator to the top is ~€12

Piazza Venezia is home to the massive white “wedding cake” monument honoring Italy’s first king. While controversial among Romans, it offers one of the best 360° views of the city.

Pro Tip: Take the glass elevator to the top for an epic view of Ancient Rome!

FAQs

What is the best time of year to visit Rome?

→ Spring (April–May) and Fall (September–October) offer mild weather and fewer crowds. Summer can be very hot and crowded.

How many days do I need to see the best of Rome?

→ Ideally, 3 to 4 days are enough to see the main attractions. However, a week allows for a more relaxed itinerary with day trips.

Is Rome a walkable city?

→ Yes! Most major attractions are within walking distance. However, Rome’s cobblestone streets can be tiring, so comfortable shoes are recommended.

What is the best way to get around Rome?

→ Walking is best for central attractions. For longer distances, use Rome’s metro, buses, or trams. Taxis and ride-sharing apps (Uber) are available but can be expensive.

Do I need to speak Italian to visit Rome?

→ No, many people in tourist areas speak English. However, learning basic phrases (like “Grazie” for thanks) is appreciated.

Can I visit the Sistine Chapel without touring the Vatican Museums?

→ No, the Sistine Chapel is inside the Vatican Museums, and you must buy a museum ticket to enter.

Do I need to buy tickets in advance for attractions?

→ Yes, skip-the-line tickets are highly recommended for the Colosseum, Vatican Museums, and Borghese Gallery to avoid long waits.

What is the dress code for visiting churches in Rome?

→ Shoulders and knees must be covered in religious sites like St. Peter’s Basilica and the Pantheon.

Final Thoughts: Rome is a Timeless Masterpiece

Rome is a city that doesn’t just live in the past—it breathes history, art, food, and culture with every cobblestoned step you take. From the towering Colosseum to the quiet awe of the Vatican, and the simple joy of sipping espresso in a sunlit piazza, there’s no shortage of unforgettable moments waiting to be made.

Whether you’re checking off major landmarks or getting delightfully lost in Trastevere’s alleyways, the best things to do in Rome blend the iconic with the unexpected. Let the Eternal City surprise you—it always does.

So take your time, eat that extra scoop of gelato, and don’t stress about seeing everything. Because the truth is, once you visit Rome, you’ll always want to come back.

What’s at the top of your Rome bucket list?

Planning your Rome itinerary? Drop your questions in the comments, and I’ll help you out!

📌 P.S. If you’re planning your trip, check out my Italy packing guide to make sure you’re prepared! Don’t forget to follow me on Pinterest and Instagram!

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