Top 10 Things to See and Do in Rome: A Guide to the Eternal City
Ah, Rome! The Eternal City, where history meets modern life at every corner. Whether it’s your first visit or your tenth, there’s always something new to discover. The charm of Rome lies not only in its iconic landmarks but also in the hidden gems and rich cultural experiences that surprise you when you least expect them. If you’re planning a trip, here’s a list of the top ten things you absolutely shouldn’t miss. Let’s dive right in!
1. The Colosseum: Walk in the Footsteps of Gladiators
No trip to Rome is complete without a visit to the Colosseum. This ancient amphitheater is one of the most famous landmarks in the world, and for good reason. Standing in its vast, circular arena, you can almost hear the roar of the crowds and feel the intensity of the gladiatorial battles that took place here nearly 2,000 years ago.
While a simple walk around the outside is impressive, it’s worth taking a guided tour to get the full experience. You’ll learn all about the Colosseum’s history, the ingenious Roman engineering behind it, and the events that made it such an iconic place in ancient Rome. Pro tip: book your tickets online in advance to skip the long lines!
Tip: It’s always best to prebook your entrance to the Colosseum.
2. The Roman Forum: Step Back in Time
Right next to the Colosseum is the Roman Forum, an archaeological wonder that was once the heart of ancient Rome. As you walk through the ruins of temples, basilicas, and government buildings, you’ll get a real sense of what life was like in ancient Rome. Imagine this place bustling with politicians, merchants, and citizens going about their daily lives.
Take your time here—there’s a lot to see. Highlights include the Temple of Saturn, the Arch of Septimius Severus, and the House of the Vestal Virgins. For history buffs, this is paradise!
Tip: If you have some spare budget – take a guided tour of this area! It’s easy to miss something.
3. The Pantheon: Marvel at Ancient Architecture
The Pantheon is one of the most well-preserved ancient buildings in Rome, and it’s truly a sight to behold. Originally built as a temple to all the gods, it now serves as a Catholic church. As soon as you step inside, you’ll be blown away by the massive dome, which is still the world’s largest unreinforced concrete dome.
Be sure to look up at the oculus—the opening in the center of the dome—which lets in natural light and gives the Pantheon its mystical feel. The structure is also the final resting place of Renaissance painter Raphael, so it’s a place of artistic and historical significance.
Tip: To avoid long queues – prebook an entrance time. It’s easy to book on the Pantheon website!
4. Trevi Fountain: Make a Wish
The Trevi Fountain is arguably the most famous fountain in the world, and it’s much more than just a beautiful monument. Legend has it that if you toss a coin over your shoulder into the fountain, you’re guaranteed to return to Rome. Millions of visitors take part in this tradition every year, so why not give it a try?
Even if you’re not superstitious, the Trevi Fountain is a masterpiece of Baroque art. Its intricate sculptures and the sheer size of the fountain are truly awe-inspiring, especially when it’s lit up at night.
Tip: Get here early – and we mean early – to avoid the crowds and get a good picture.
5. The Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel: A Feast for Art Lovers
A trip to Rome wouldn’t be complete without exploring the Vatican, even if you’re not particularly religious. The Vatican Museums are home to one of the world’s greatest art collections, spanning everything from ancient Egyptian relics to modern art. The highlight, of course, is the Sistine Chapel, where you’ll see Michelangelo’s breathtaking ceiling frescoes, including the famous “Creation of Adam.”
It can be overwhelming to take it all in, so consider taking a guided tour to help you navigate the vast collection. And don’t forget to visit St. Peter’s Basilica while you’re there—it’s an architectural marvel!
Tip: If you are spending a number of days in Rome, commit a full day to the Vatican. But check online to make sure it’s open. Always go with fast track tickets!
6. St. Peter’s Basilica: Climb to the Top for a Panoramic View
Speaking of St. Peter’s Basilica, this Renaissance masterpiece is the largest church in the world and a must-see while in Rome. The interior is stunning, with works by Michelangelo, Bernini, and other great artists.
For a truly unforgettable experience, climb to the top of the dome. The climb is a bit steep, but the panoramic views of Rome are absolutely worth it. From up there, you’ll get a unique perspective on the city and its iconic landmarks.
Tip: Buy a Vatican City Pass and prebook your museum entrance time.
7. Piazza Navona: Enjoy a Roman Afternoon
Piazza Navona is one of the most beautiful squares in Rome and a great place to spend an afternoon. The square is lined with lively cafes, street performers, and stunning Baroque fountains, including Bernini’s famous Fountain of the Four Rivers.
Grab a coffee or gelato, sit back, and soak in the vibrant atmosphere. It’s the perfect spot to people-watch and feel the energy of the city.
Tip: Explore early in the morning or late afternoon when the crowds are thinner.
8. The Spanish Steps: Relax in Style
The Spanish Steps are another iconic Roman landmark and a great place to rest your feet after a day of sightseeing. The staircase connects Piazza di Spagna with the Trinità dei Monti church, and the views from the top are lovely.
This area is also home to some of Rome’s most upscale shops, so if you’re in the mood for some luxury shopping, this is the place to be. And just around the corner is the Keats-Shelley House, a small museum dedicated to the Romantic poets.
Tip: For fear of repeating ourselves – this is another area that is best visited very early in the day to get the best photo opportunities.
9. Villa Borghese Gardens: Escape the City
Need a break from the hustle and bustle? Head to Villa Borghese, a sprawling park that offers a peaceful escape right in the heart of Rome. The gardens are perfect for a leisurely stroll, a picnic, or even a bike ride.
Don’t miss the Galleria Borghese, located within the park, which houses an impressive collection of Renaissance and Baroque art, including works by Caravaggio, Bernini, and Titian.
10. Trastevere: Explore Rome’s Bohemian Side
Last but not least, take some time to explore Trastevere, a charming neighbourhood known for its cobblestone streets, vibrant nightlife, and bohemian vibe. This is where you’ll find some of the best food in Rome, from traditional trattorias to trendy cafes and bars.
Wander through the narrow alleys, admire the colourful buildings, and maybe pop into a local bar for an aperitivo. Trastevere is the perfect place to end a busy day in Rome, offering a more relaxed and authentic side of the city.
There you have it—ten incredible things to see and do in Rome! Whether you’re exploring ancient ruins, marvelling at world-class art, or just soaking in the atmosphere of a beautiful piazza, Rome is a city that truly has it all. So pack your bags, grab your camera, and get ready for an unforgettable Roman adventure!
Tip: Prebook the Borghese Gallery!
Bonus visit: How could we forget about La Bocca della Verità—the Mouth of Truth! This quirky and fascinating landmark is one of Rome’s most fun and iconic spots, and it’s perfect for adding a bit of legend to your trip.
Located just outside the beautiful church of Santa Maria in Cosmedin, the Mouth of Truth is an ancient marble mask with an intriguing history. According to legend, the stone face, which has wide-open eyes and a gaping mouth, was once used as a lie detector. The idea was that if someone told a lie while their hand was in the mouth, the mask would bite down and catch them in the act! Of course, this was likely just a medieval scare tactic, but it’s still fun to test your honesty, right?
The Mouth of Truth has gained even more fame thanks to its appearance in the classic 1953 film “Roman Holiday”, where Audrey Hepburn and Gregory Peck have a memorable scene right in front of it. If you’re a fan of classic cinema or simply love a good legend, it’s worth stopping by for a quick photo op.
After you’ve had your moment with the Mouth of Truth, take a moment to step inside Santa Maria in Cosmedin. The church itself is beautiful, with its serene atmosphere and stunning Byzantine mosaics. It’s a peaceful spot to reflect and take a break from the busy streets of Rome.
So, while you’re out exploring all the famous landmarks, don’t forget to squeeze in a visit to the Mouth of Truth. It’s one of those little things that make Rome such a magical, layered city—where history, legend, and pop culture all come together in the most delightful way!
Tip: This is a great extra visit to squeeze into your day. But don’t leave it too late as the church closes at 5:45pm. Queues are not usually that bad.
Rome is a fantastic city to explore. With so much to see and do, planning is extremely important. In the summer months it’s essential to prebook entrance and most hot-ticket sites! But even these may require pre-booking months in advance.
If you only have a day to visit Rome and you just want to get a feel for the city – then there is enough to see without prebooking any of the major sights.
Rome is easy to get around by public transport. Google maps is a fabulous tool and will list public transport options between all the major sights!
Enjoy.
For hotels – you don’t have to be in the centre – Rome has an excellent Metro system – and buses are easy to use as well. Stay in the outskirts of Rome and spend your savings on entrance fees or food!
Getting to Rome by Air is never easier with so many low-cost airline options as well as traditional scheduled service.
Trains are a cost effective way to travel around Italy. And there is no better way to arrive into Rome than into Roma Termini in the heart of the city!
