Rome is a city where ancient history, incredible architecture, Italian cuisine, and lively neighborhoods come together.
From standing inside the legendary Colosseum to tossing a coin into the Trevi Fountain, there are countless ways to experience the Italian capital.
Whether you’re visiting Rome for a weekend or planning a longer Italian adventure, this guide covers some of the best things to do in Rome to help you make the most of your trip.
If you’re still planning your itinerary, start by exploring our Rome Travel Guide for more inspiration, attractions, and experiences.
1. Explore the Colosseum
The Colosseum is one of the most iconic landmarks in Rome and a must-see for first-time visitors.
This ancient amphitheater once hosted gladiatorial contests, public spectacles, and other events during the Roman Empire. Today, you can explore its impressive structure and imagine what life was like in ancient Rome.
For a deeper understanding of the site, consider booking a guided Colosseum tour with a local guide.
Why visit the Colosseum?
- One of Rome’s most famous landmarks
- Fascinating ancient history
- Great for first-time visitors
- Close to the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill
Tip: Popular Colosseum experiences can fill quickly during busy travel periods, so check availability before your trip.
2. Visit Vatican City
Vatican City is one of the most fascinating places to visit while you’re in Rome.
Explore St. Peter’s Basilica, admire St. Peter’s Square, and discover the Vatican Museums, home to an extraordinary collection of art and historic treasures.
The Sistine Chapel is another major highlight.
A guided experience can make your visit easier by helping you understand the history and significance of the places you’re seeing.
Don’t miss:
- St. Peter’s Basilica
- St. Peter’s Square
- Vatican Museums
- Sistine Chapel
3. Make a Wish at the Trevi Fountain
The Trevi Fountain is one of the most recognizable sights in Rome.
Its dramatic Baroque design makes it one of the city’s most photographed landmarks. According to tradition, throwing a coin into the fountain is said to increase your chances of returning to Rome.
Visit early in the morning if you prefer a quieter atmosphere.
The fountain is also surrounded by streets, cafés, shops, and other attractions, making it easy to include in a walking itinerary.
4. Step Inside the Pantheon
The Pantheon is one of ancient Rome’s best-preserved buildings.
Its enormous dome and famous central opening, known as the oculus, make it a remarkable example of ancient Roman architecture.
Take some time to explore the interior and then wander through the surrounding streets and piazzas.
The Pantheon is close to several other central attractions, so it’s an easy addition to a day of Rome sightseeing.
5. Walk the Spanish Steps
The Spanish Steps are another famous Rome landmark.
Located between Piazza di Spagna and the Trinità dei Monti area, the steps connect some of the city’s most attractive streets and neighborhoods.
The surrounding area is ideal for walking, shopping, enjoying architecture, and stopping at a nearby café.
For first-time visitors, the Spanish Steps can easily be combined with the Trevi Fountain and Pantheon.
6. Discover Piazza Navona
Piazza Navona is one of Rome’s most beautiful and lively squares.
The long, open piazza is surrounded by historic buildings, cafés, restaurants, fountains, and street performers.
It’s a great place to slow down after visiting Rome’s major attractions.
If you’re interested in discovering Italian cuisine while exploring the city, consider joining a Rome food tour.
7. Explore the Roman Forum
Located beside the Colosseum, the Roman Forum was once the center of political, religious, and commercial life in ancient Rome.
Today, visitors can walk among the ruins and imagine what the heart of the Roman Republic and Empire once looked like.
The Forum is especially interesting for travelers who want to understand more about ancient Roman civilization.
Travel tip
Combine the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill during the same day to make the most of your time in this part of Rome.
8. Wander Through Trastevere
If you want to experience a more relaxed and local side of Rome, spend some time exploring Trastevere.
The neighborhood is known for its narrow cobblestone streets, colorful buildings, lively squares, restaurants, and traditional atmosphere.
It’s particularly enjoyable in the evening when restaurants and cafés begin to fill the streets.
Explore Rome Through Food
A food tour can be a fun way to discover local dishes while learning more about Roman food traditions.
9. Visit Castel Sant’Angelo
Castel Sant’Angelo is a distinctive fortress located along the Tiber River.
Originally built as a mausoleum, the structure has served several different purposes throughout Rome’s history.
Today, visitors can explore the building and enjoy views of the city from its elevated position.
Its location also makes it convenient to combine with a visit to Vatican City.
10. Relax in Villa Borghese
Rome isn’t only about ancient ruins and busy streets.
Villa Borghese provides a welcome escape into one of the city’s most famous green spaces.
Take a walk through the gardens, relax among the trees, or visit the Borghese Gallery if you’re interested in art.
It’s a good choice when you want to slow down and enjoy a quieter side of Rome.
11. Taste Traditional Roman Food
One of the best ways to experience Rome is through its food.
Make time to try classic Roman dishes such as:
- Cacio e pepe
- Carbonara
- Amatriciana
- Supplì
- Pizza al taglio
- Gelato
Food isn’t simply something to eat in Rome—it’s an important part of experiencing the city’s culture.
A guided food experience can help you discover local specialties and neighborhoods that you might otherwise overlook.
Rome food experiences →
12. Join a Rome Walking Tour
Rome is an excellent city to explore on foot.
A walking tour can bring several attractions together while giving you historical context and local stories that you might miss when exploring alone.
Depending on your interests, you can find experiences focused on:
- Ancient Rome
- Historic landmarks
- Local neighborhoods
- Food
- Architecture
- Evening sightseeing
13. Discover Capitoline Hill
Capitoline Hill is one of Rome’s historic seven hills and has played an important role in the city’s history.
The area is known for its impressive architecture, museums, and views toward the Roman Forum.
Take some time to explore the surrounding square before continuing to other historic areas of central Rome.
14. Experience Rome After Dark
Rome becomes especially atmospheric after sunset.
Historic buildings and fountains are illuminated, restaurants fill up, and neighborhoods such as Trastevere become lively places to explore.
An evening walking tour or food experience can be a great way to see a different side of the city.
15. Take a Day Trip From Rome
If you’re staying in Rome for several days, consider spending one day exploring beyond the city.
A day trip can give you the opportunity to discover historic sites, charming towns, countryside landscapes, archaeological attractions, and other destinations in the surrounding region.
Explore Day Trips
Ready to explore beyond Rome? Discover available day trips and excursions for your Italian adventure.
Best Things to Do in Rome: Quick List
If you’re short on time, here are the highlights:
Experience Best For Colosseum Ancient history Vatican City Art & culture Trevi Fountain Iconic landmarks Pantheon Architecture Spanish Steps City sightseeing Piazza Navona Atmosphere Roman Forum Ancient Rome Trastevere Local atmosphere Castel Sant’Angelo History Villa Borghese Relaxation Roman Food Food lovers Walking Tours First-time visitors Capitoline Hill History & museums Rome at Night Evening experiences Day Trips Exploring beyond Rome Tips for Visiting Rome
Start Early
Popular attractions can become busy, especially during peak travel periods. Starting your day earlier can make sightseeing more comfortable.
Wear Comfortable Shoes
Rome is a walking city. Comfortable footwear will make exploring its historic streets much easier.
Plan Your Major Attractions
If you’re visiting places such as the Colosseum or Vatican Museums, check opening times, ticket requirements, and availability before you go.
Leave Time to Explore
Don’t fill every hour of your itinerary. Some of Rome’s best moments can happen while simply wandering through its streets and piazzas.
Try Local Food
Don’t limit your trip to sightseeing. Make time for traditional Roman dishes and local food experiences.
Best Way to Explore Rome
Rome offers so many different types of experiences that it’s worth combining several during your trip.
You could spend one day exploring ancient landmarks, another discovering Vatican City, another tasting Roman cuisine, and another exploring neighborhoods or taking a day trip.
Sightseeing Tours
Discover Rome’s famous landmarks with guided experiences.
Day Trips
Explore destinations beyond Rome and discover more of Italy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Some of the most popular things to do in Rome include visiting the Colosseum, Vatican City, Trevi Fountain, Pantheon, Roman Forum, Spanish Steps, and Trastevere.
Three to four days is a good starting point for first-time visitors who want to experience many of Rome’s major attractions while still having time to explore neighborhoods and enjoy local food.
Yes. Rome combines ancient history, famous landmarks, museums, architecture, food, and lively neighborhoods, making it an excellent destination for first-time visitors.
Guided tours can be useful if you want historical context, local insights, or a more structured way to visit major attractions.
Popular Roman dishes include carbonara, cacio e pepe, amatriciana, supplì, pizza al taglio, and gelato.
The best choice depends on your interests, available time, and preferred type of experience. Day trips can include historic sites, countryside destinations, archaeological attractions, and other Italian destinations.
Ready to Explore Rome?
From ancient ruins and world-famous landmarks to delicious food and unforgettable experiences, Rome offers something for every traveler.
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