The 12 top activities to enjoy in Rome

Must-do experiences in Rome include iconic sites like the Colosseum and the Vatican Museums, as well as local favorites like visiting Testaccio Market and dining at an authentic Roman trattoria.

I've visited Rome during significant moments in my life – as a college student, on my honeymoon, and with family – and I will always return. The Eternal City truly lives up to its name, offering endless intrigue. Here’s my list of the best things to do in Rome to soak in the city's timeless charm.

People gather at an outdoor bar next to a narrow street lined with traditional townhouses.

A vibrant public square filled with people sitting on steps around a fountain and strolling past outdoor cafés.

Tourists dressed in winter attire stroll beside the iconic Roman Colosseum.

What inspired this guide?

Rome holds a special place in my heart. With my husband’s Italian citizenship, we’ve explored the city numerous times. This guide was crafted from my personal experiences, enriched by local insights and online research.

Essential attractions to see in Rome

As the cradle of the Roman Empire, the heart of the Catholic Church for centuries, and the birthplace of the High Renaissance, Rome boasts countless historic sites worth visiting. Here’s what you shouldn’t miss in the city.

Vatican Museums and the Sistine Chapel

Visitors elegantly descend a stunning spiral staircase within the Vatican Museum.

Vatican City, the world’s smallest country, is entirely surrounded by Rome and has served as the residence of the Catholic Pope since the 14th century. The Vatican Museums feature one of the globe's most remarkable art collections spread across 50 galleries, courtyards, and corridors, showcasing thousands of white marble sculptures, modern artworks, and masterpieces from the Renaissance by renowned artists like Caravaggio, da Vinci, and Raphael.

Raphael’s fresco, The School of Athens, located in the Room of the Segnatura, illustrates famous Greek philosophers and is a true Renaissance treasure. Be sure to look for Raphael’s self-portrait; a tip: he’s wearing a black beret.

The museum's undeniable highlights are Michelangelo’s exquisite Sistine Chapel frescoes, crafted between 1508 and 1512. It may take a toll on your neck to admire the breathtaking scenes on the vaulted ceiling, but the impressions will linger long after you depart.

Saint Peter’s Basilica

The elegant colonnade and the basilica bask in the bright sunlight of St. Peter's Square.

Experiencing all that Vatican City offers in one visit is nearly impossible. I recommend exploring UNESCO-listed sites on a different day than the Vatican Museums. (To avoid large crowds, steer clear of Wednesdays and Sundays when the Pope is present.) Built atop Saint Peter's tomb, Saint Peter’s Basilica is a stunning example of Renaissance architecture. Even non-Catholics can feel the historical significance beneath its gilded ceilings and towering dome that rises over 400 feet high.

While entry to the basilica is free, ascending to the dome costs around €8. The panoramic views of Saint Peter’s Square and the city make it worth the effort, though be aware that some stairways and passages are quite narrow. If you have a tendency towards claustrophobia, you might want to reconsider.

Galleria Borghese

A breathtaking baroque structure showcases a symmetrical layout embellished with columns, pilasters, and intricate decorative features.

In the 17th century, Cardinal Scipione Borghese commissioned an opulent 'pleasure palace' to display his remarkable art collection. Today, Galleria Borghese remains a top attraction in Rome, featuring a compact yet powerful assortment of works by masters like Caravaggio, Canova, Bernini, and others.

Even if you don't consider yourself a fan of sculpture, seeing Bernini’s Apollo and Daphne will change your perspective. Created when Bernini was just in his mid-20s, it masterfully depicts the moment Daphne’s father, Peneus, attempts to save her from Apollo by turning her into a laurel tree, her fingers morphing into delicate leaves as she struggles to escape.

Galleria Borghese permits visitors to stay for only two hours, making it a race to fully appreciate each invaluable piece. The villa is enveloped by Rome’s third-largest public park, featuring meticulously manicured gardens and tranquil water features.

The Pantheon

A woman stands inside a building featuring a coffered dome, illuminated by light streaming through the central oculus.

Constructed by Emperor Hadrian in 125 AD, the Pantheon is among the best-preserved structures from ancient Rome. Its majestic facade, adorned with 16 Corinthian columns made of Egyptian granite, commands attention at the end of Piazza della Rotonda.

Upon entering through the massive bronze doors, I'm always taken aback by the interior's brightness—the expansive coffered dome, with its oculus at the top, bathes the space in sunlight during the day and reveals the moonlit sky at night. The Pantheon serves not only as a temple but also as a burial site for various Italian royalty and the renowned artist Raphael.

Although entry was free for many years, it now costs around €5. As one of the must-see attractions in Rome, the Pantheon draws large crowds, so visiting early in the morning is advisable.

The Colosseum

Few structures ignite the imagination quite like the colossal Colosseum, a powerful emblem of the Roman Empire. Immortalized in literature and films such as Gladiator, it is believed to have accommodated over 50,000 spectators. Nowadays, it's hard not to feel a twinge of discomfort when picturing the brutal gladiatorial contests and staged naval battles that began in 80 AD.

It’s highly advisable to book tickets in advance, particularly for the guided Underground Experience. This option allows you to bypass the queues, explore the third ring, and enter the underground chambers where gladiators and exotic animals awaited their turn to enter the arena. With the addition of a replica elevator in 2015, you can witness how a system of ropes, pulleys, and counterweights was used to lift animals like tigers, lions, and bears through trap doors into the arena.

Palatine Hill

The Roman Forum features the remains of significant ancient structures, enveloped by a dense cluster of compact buildings.

Palatine Hill, regarded as the legendary birthplace of Rome in Roman mythology, is a rich repository of archaeological remnants, featuring the ruins of imperial palaces belonging to emperors such as Augustus, Tiberius, and Domitian. Notable structures like the House of Livia and the Palatine Museum display artifacts and art unearthed from the site.

From Palatine Hill, visitors can savor stunning panoramic vistas of Rome, including iconic sites like the Roman Forum and the Colosseum. Directly linked to the Roman Forum, an ancient area rich with the remains of governmental edifices, admission tickets encompass both locations and are priced at approximately €22. While the Roman Forum tends to draw large crowds, Palatine Hill often offers a more tranquil experience, allowing you to delve into ancient Roman history while enjoying a peaceful escape from the city's hustle and bustle—making it one of the must-do activities in Rome.

Top attractions in Rome: Hidden gems to discover

While the city's prominent landmarks are significant attractions, there are also many outstanding lesser-known experiences to enjoy in Rome.

Ancient Pharmacy of Santa Maria della Scala

A couple stands inside a museum adorned with archways and a stunningly decorated arched ceiling in the backdrop.

For those intrigued by potions, the Ancient Pharmacy of Santa Maria della Scala in Trastevere, located near the Tiber River, is a must-visit. This remarkably preserved medieval apothecary features elaborately carved wooden shelves, ceramic jars, and ceiling frescoes. Dating back to the 13th century, it ranks among the oldest pharmacies in Europe.

The ground floor houses a modern pharmacy, while the historical section can be accessed upstairs by appointment. Here, a friar explains various herbs, potions, unguents, balms, and oils used to heal Romans centuries ago, including teriaca, a concoction containing viper meat.

Be sure to check out the fascinating collection of antique medical instruments, tools, and equipment once utilized by pharmacists and physicians.

Piazza Navona

A lively town square framed by buildings with two towers, featuring the magnificent Fontana del Nettuno at its heart.

While Rome boasts many picturesque public spaces perfect for relaxation, don’t miss the chance to enjoy Piazza Navona. This elongated square was constructed on the grounds of Emperor Domitian’s former stadium, where significant athletic events were once held.

The square showcases three fountains, including the Baroque gem by Bernini, the Fountain of the Four Rivers, prominently placed in the center. During December, it transforms into a festive market, complete with chocolate vendors and children’s activities, and is lined with cafes offering outdoor seating.

If you're visiting during this time, make sure to experience it. Order a Negroni or Aperol spritz and indulge in one of the most enjoyable activities in Rome: pretending to be a local.

Where to eat in Rome

When in Rome, indulging in great food is essential. These establishments are favorites among both locals and tourists, making them some of the top experiences in the city.

Bonci Pizzarium

A young boy with blonde hair enjoys pizza with a fork at an outdoor café.

Chef Gabriele Bonci, often dubbed the Michelangelo of pizza, transformed the Roman slice into a culinary masterpiece with the opening of Bonci Pizzarium in 2003. His airy, focaccia-like crust made from natural ingredients was a game-changer.

Bonci’s influence is such that he appeared in the 2022 season of Chef’s Table: Pizza. At his cozy shop near the Vatican Museums, Bonci offers a variety of rectangular slices adorned with imaginative seasonal toppings, including potato with mozzarella and zucchini paired with ricotta and lemon. While there’s no table service, you can grab a beer or a glass of wine and enjoy a quick lunch or dinner at high-top tables.

Testaccio Market

A tent showcasing a variety of fruits for sale next to a bicycle filled with produce baskets.

With so many historical sites and artworks to explore in Rome, you might find yourself experiencing museum fatigue after a few days. To refresh your holiday, I suggest a visit to the vibrant Testaccio Market. Once the site of Europe’s largest slaughterhouse, this neighborhood is deeply connected to Rome’s culinary heritage.

At this bustling market, locals gather to enjoy delicious street food such as roast pork sandwiches, tripe stews, and freshly made pasta. Anyone keen on Italian cuisine should stop by to browse the locally sourced fruits, herbs, and olive oil that contribute to what is arguably the world’s most beloved cuisine.

Giolitti

A man enjoys his espresso while seated at an outdoor café.

If you ask a Roman where to find the best gelato in the city, you'll likely receive a variety of answers. However, one establishment stands out for its long history: Giolitti. This family-run café and bakery has been delighting customers since 1900 and even provided cream to the Italian royal family. It still operates at its original location on Via degli Uffici del Vicario. Inside its ornate Liberty-style setting, attentive staff serve generous helpings of flavors like stracciatella and hazelnut. You can either take your gelato to go or relax at a table beneath the chandeliers while enjoying coffee, pastries, and indulgent ice cream treats.

Trattoria da Cesare

A fork twirls strands of perfectly cooked spaghetti noodles.

Are you a pasta enthusiast? Then make the trip to Monteverde for a remarkable meal featuring authentic Roman-style cuisine. Family-owned Trattoria da Cesare offers delectable fritto misto, a starter of lightly fried seafood (like calamari and anchovies) or seasonal vegetables such as squash blossoms. While the meat dishes, including oxtail stew, are certainly enjoyable, it’s the pasta that truly shines here.

Choose from delicious options like pasta alla gricia, rigatoni bathed in guanciale drippings, carbonara, porcini fettuccine, or classic cacio e pepe. The ideal spots are on the patio draped with a pergola.

Note: If you intend to dine at specific places, always call ahead and secure a reservation. For Trattoria da Cesare, it's wise to contact them a week or two in advance.

A woman wearing sunglasses smiles and glances back while holding someone's hand.

Two women look toward the Pantheon, observing the crowd as they pass through the piazza.

An ancient fountain sits in front of the Spanish Steps and the Trinità dei Monti.

Eager to visit Italy? For additional vacation ideas, explore the top restaurants in Rome, and if you're an LGBTQ+ traveler, be sure to check out this guide. If you have some extra time, consider planning a day trip from Rome.