When in Rome... These Are the Things to Do!

Looking for the best things to do in Rome beyond the typical tourist spots? With the Jubilee 2025 expected to bring a few dozen million more visitors, it's time to discover hidden gems away from the crowds.

Picture yourself posing on a Vespa, finding ancient statues in an industrial museum, or enjoying opera in a church. You can even try dubbing the Trevi Fountain scene from La Dolce Vita, explore a crypt with 4,000 monk skulls, or escape for a day to hike a volcano.

Let’s dive into the unique things to do in Rome that will let you experience the city in an unforgettable way!

Check Off Rome's Must-See Attractions

Rome’s top sights fit perfectly into one or two days, leaving extra time to soak in the city’s charm beyond the tourist hotspots.

If you only have one full day, I’d suggest starting at the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill — all part of the same vast archaeological area that brings ancient Rome to life. The sheer scale of the Colosseum is breathtaking, the Forum feels like an open-air museum of crumbling temples and basilicas, and Palatine Hill offers stunning views over it all.

From there, a 10-minute walk will take you to Piazza Venezia, where the massive Altar of the Fatherland shines in white marble.

Not far away, the Pantheon stands as a 2,000-year-old architectural marvel, still boasting the world’s largest unreinforced concrete dome.

Just around the corner, Piazza Navona is a lively hub of fountains, artists, and cafés — perfect for a well-earned aperitivo or a classic Roman lunch.

You can then wander to the Trevi Fountain to toss a coin (legend says it guarantees a return to Rome) before heading 10 minutes on foot to the Spanish Steps.

If energy allows, you can end the day at Villa Borghese, enjoying a sunset over the city from Pincio Terrace, where musicians often set the mood.

On the other side of the Tiber, Vatican City deserves at least half a day.

The Vatican Museums take you on a 7-kilometer journey through 70,000+ artworks, culminating in the breathtaking Sistine Chapel while burning some good calories along the way!

The Vatican Museums (as well as some others!) offer free entry to everyone on the last Sunday of the month! Additionally, children under 6, journalists, ICOM members, and visitors with a certified disability of 74% or more always enter for free, while students under 26 benefit from reduced prices.

After closing off the Vatican tour at St. Peter’s Basilica, the nearby districts of Trastevere and Prati are ideal for unwinding over an authentic meal. Look for "osteria" or "trattoria" — family-run eateries that serve traditional, home-cooked food at fair prices and are often packed with locals (a sure sign they’re not tourist traps). One night, my sister and I went to a random trattoria in Prati, where we had an extra-large pizza, a generous 1L of house wine, tender octopus with veggies, and tasty nibbles — all for just 38 EUR for two!

Now that you’ve come, seen, and conquered the entry lines (veni, vidi, vici!) to Rome’s hottest tourist spots, let’s dive into the city’s hidden gems and authentic experiences. Whether you’ve got 3, 5, or 7 days left to explore the Eternal City, there are plenty of exciting things to do!

Discover Rome's Secret Art Spots

Rome offers countless hidden gems for those seeking art away from the crowds.

If you’re drawn to Baroque grandeur, the Doria Pamphilj Gallery is a must-visit, a stunning palace filled with masterpieces in a serene, less-visited space.

Not far off, Villa Farnesina houses magnificent Renaissance frescoes, including Raphael’s Galatea, while the Church of St. Ignatius of Loyola invites you to marvel at its mind-bending ceiling illusion — perfect for those looking to snap a mirror selfie under a faux sky.

For contemporary art enthusiasts, MAXXI Museum stands out with its avant-garde architecture and dynamic exhibits pushing the boundaries of innovation.

Centrale Montemartini, on the other hand, is a fascinating fusion of ancient and industrial, where Roman sculptures stand in stark contrast to towering, rusted machinery, creating a steampunk vibe.

For those fascinated by light as art, the Museum of Light in Rome transforms its space into a luminous playground, blending technology and creativity in striking installations.

Nearby, the Sciarra Gallery is an elegant Art Nouveau courtyard tucked away from the usual crowds, offering a peaceful escape with its delicate frescoes and decorative beauty.

Finally, the bold Palazzo della Civiltà, known as the Square Colosseum, showcases contemporary art that challenges its Fascist-era design, adding yet another layer to Rome's ever-evolving artistic landscape.

Oh, and be sure to capture an iconic shot like Jep Gambardella on the poster of Paolo Sorrentino’s La Grande Bellezza, an Oscar-winning masterpiece that fashionably showcases Rome’s opulence and decay through the lens of a true maestro.

The spot is right next to Marforio, the river god statue, in the Capitoline Museums, which is also home to the famous bronze Capitoline Wolf that fed Romulus and Remus, the legendary founders of Rome.

Other stunning and Instagrammable yet not overcrowded spots are Palazzo Altemps and Palazzo Colonna: the former features a stunning portico with busts, columns, and vaulted ceilings, capturing the timeless elegance of ancient Rome, while the latter envelops you in Baroque grandeur, with its frescoed ceilings and towering columns, making you feel like a Roman aristocrat.

If you’re heading to Rome in 2025, here’s a rare chance to scream (in excitement!) over a major Edvard Munch retrospective at Palazzo Bonaparte.

Running from 11 February to 2 June, the exhibit brings 100 works from Oslo’s Munch Museum, including The Scream, Death in the Sickroom, and The Girls on the Bridge — the biggest Munch showcase Italy has seen in 20 years.

Unveil Rome from a Bird’s-Eye View

Rome is a city that reveals its beauty from every angle, and its viewpoints offer some of the most unforgettable perspectives.

The Garden of Oranges on the Aventine Hill invites you to unwind beneath the shade of fragrant fruit trees, where you can soak in the peaceful atmosphere and enjoy a spectacular view of the city.

Just a short 2-minute stroll away, the tranquil St. Alessio Garden offers another peaceful escape.

Not far from there, the Keyhole of the Knights of Malta offers a hidden glimpse of St. Peter’s Dome, framed perfectly like a secret waiting to be discovered.

For panoramic views that stretch across the city, Janiculum Hill is a must. From here, you can take in a sweeping vista that spans from the Vatican to the Tiber River, with the setting sun casting the city in warm, golden hues. 

For those seeking a true bird’s-eye view of Rome, the Vittoriano Rooftop offers an unparalleled 360-degree perspective, where you can marvel at the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and more, all while the historical Palazzo Venezia stands proudly in the background.

Other iconic spots include the romantic Pincio Terrace, perfect for a sunset stroll, and Castel Sant'Angelo, where you can enjoy breathtaking views of the Vatican and Tiber River as the city’s lights twinkle beneath you.

Eat, Drink, Love… The Roman Way

Rome’s culinary scene is brimming with options, but if you’re unsure where to begin, the Trastevere Food and Wine Tour is a perfect starting point. This guided journey through one of Rome’s most vibrant neighborhoods offers 20 tastings of local delicacies and fine wines — a delightful way to dive into the city’s authentic flavors.

For fun, interactive experiences, why not pair your wine with creativity at a sip-and-paint session or enjoy a romantic Tiber River cruise, dining on exquisite dishes while gliding past Rome’s illuminated landmarks? For those willing to venture further, a lunch and wine tour in Tuscany’s Montepulciano offers a taste of the famed region, set amidst rolling vineyards and scenic countryside.

Want to bring a piece of Italy home or even recreate Sophia Loren’s famous pasta cooking scene from Vittorio De Sica’s Oscar-winning Ieri, Oggi e Domani?

Join a hands-on cooking class to master traditional recipes like pasta, pizza, tiramisu, or gelato — perfect for impressing friends and family with authentic Italian dishes upon your return.

Before leaving Rome, don’t miss a stop at Eataly, a haven for Italian gastronomic wonders. This massive marketplace boasts everything from premium olive oils to artisanal cheeses and cured meats. Its excellent Terra restaurant, where wood-fired dishes elevate seasonal ingredients into something extraordinary, is the perfect place for a farewell feast.

Oh, and make sure to try the melted Caciocavallo Impiccato cheese at the small kiosk on the ground floor — it’s simply otherworldly.

Speaking of otherworldly delights, be sure to try a maritozzo — a quintessential Roman pastry whose playful name stems from the old tradition of young men gifting this sweet treat to their beloved — available at the historic Pasticceria Regoli for just a few euros.

You can see the delight on Marcello Mastroianni and Jack Lemmon’s faces — with their cream-dusted moustaches — in Ettore Scola's Maccheroni, a charming homage to the irresistible allure of this traditional Roman dessert.

Finally, If you ask me for my favorite restaurant in Rome, it’s hands down DOC Enobistrot – Cruderia & Cucina. Away from the tourist crowds, this cozy spot delivers Michelin-level dining without the steep prices. The attentive staff, exquisite raw meat tartare, and an impressive selection of affordable local wines make it a standout choice. I celebrated my birthday there, and it was perfect — elegant yet unpretentious. Go now before the secret gets out!

P.S. While I haven’t had the chance to try all these places yet, I’ve shortlisted a few for my next trip to Rome, relying on my authentic Italian food radar and vibe detector: Café Corrientes, Giano Restaurant, Le Terrazze, Anima (the garden!), and EMME Ristorante. I was also rather hooked by the tempting pizza photos from Mama Shelter Pizzeria, and the ambience with Roman column table legs is definitely a unique extra I’m excited to check out!

P.P.S. Though I usually steer clear of tourist hotspots, if you're wondering where Julia Roberts was mending her heart and practicing her Italian in Eat, Pray, Love, it was Ristorante Santa Lucia.

I’ve added 50+ must-visit spots to the map at the end of the article. It includes authentic Roman osterias, trattorias, stylish bars, top-tier gelaterias, street food gems, beloved pastry shops, and the best pizza and pasta places in Rome — so you can easily check photos, reviews, and more. Make sure to save the map before your trip to Rome!

Vibe with Rome's Music and Film

Rome offers various music and film experiences to suit every taste, from grand operatic performances to intimate concerts, vibrant street music, and iconic cinematic sets.

You can enjoy Giuseppe Verdi’s La Traviata and other classics with stunning church acoustics at St. Paul’s Within the Walls or the Waldensian Church.

For something extra luxurious, you can opt for Palazzo Poli, where the performance is complemented by a mesmerizing view of the Trevi Fountain, or the Borromini Terrace, where open-air opera is paired with panoramic vistas of Rome’s skyline and accompanied by a traditional aperitivo.

For a more intimate, immersive experience, consider attending a candlelight concert, where you’ll find tributes to artists like Queen, Italian classics, or Antonio Vivaldi’s Four Seasons, all performed by talented musicians in enchanting candlelit venues.

The street music scene in Rome is equally vibrant, pulsing from morning to night. During the day, performers can often be found around the Colosseum area, Pincio Terrace, Orange Garden, and Janiculum Hill, filling the air with melodies while providing vibrant, scenic backdrops.

As night falls, Piazza Trilussa in Trastevere comes alive with lively bars, street performers, and crowds joining in song and dance, creating a festive atmosphere under the stars.

From 5 June to 20 September 2025, the iconic Auditorium Parco della Musica — blending the classical style of a Roman amphitheater with futuristic, spaceship-like architecture — will host the Rome Summer Fest. You can sing along to the legendary Sarà Perché Ti Amo with Ricchi e Poveri (19 June), immerse yourself in the evocative sounds of Experience by Ludovico Einaudi (multiple dates), or soak in the Desert Rose vibes with Sting (7 July).

For film lovers, Cinecittà Studios, known as the Hollywood on the Tiber, offers an unforgettable behind-the-scenes look at Italian cinema history. You can even take part in interactive experiences like acting with a green screen or dubbing the famous fountain scene from Federico Fellini’s La Dolce Vita (try your hand at speaking as Marcello Mastroianni or Anita Ekberg in both English or Italian), or dive into Italy’s history of fascism through films.

During warmer months, Rome’s public parks and villas transform into open-air cinemas, with venues like Villa Medici, Villa Borghese, and Piazza Vittorio hosting classic movie screenings, film festivals, and cinematic tributes, turning the city’s lush spaces into magical open-air theaters.

Uncover Rome's Darkest Secrets

Rome is a city of grandeur, but beneath its beauty lies a shadowy past filled with secrets. As night falls, the streets whisper eerie tales.

A Paranormal Night Tour unveils the city's most chilling legends, from Campo de’ Fiori, where Giordano Bruno’s spirit is said to linger, to Palazzo Farnese, rumored to harbor ghostly echoes of sinister rituals.

The Church of Santa Maria dell’Orazione e Morte, adorned with skulls, carries an ominous inscription: "Today me, tomorrow you."

In these haunted corners, the past refuses to rest.

Ancient mysteries come to light on a Crypts and Catacombs Tour. The Capuchin Crypt, decorated with the bones of 4,000 monks, stands as a chilling reminder of life’s impermanence. Beneath the Basilica of San Nicola in Carcere, remnants of long-lost temples whisper forgotten prayers. In the eerie silence of the Domitilla Catacombs, flickering candlelight reveals labyrinthine tunnels that once sheltered persecuted Christians, their faith preserved in the dim glow of history.

Dark history unfolds within the walls of Mamertine Prison, the most dreaded dungeon of ancient Rome. Saints Peter and Paul were once confined in its cold, suffocating cells, where legend tells of a miraculous spring that appeared for their baptism. The prison's subterranean chambers, where enemies of the empire met their fate, still exude an oppressive air, as if the weight of past suffering lingers in the very stones.

A short journey from Rome, Bomarzo’s Sacred Woods offer a surreal escape, with gigantic stone monsters and enigmatic inscriptions creating an eerie, dreamlike labyrinth. Like the vine-covered ruins of Angkor or the surrealistic mosaics of Park Güell, this enigmatic garden defies explanation.

As the inscription reads, “Tu ch'entri qua pon mente parte a parte e dimmi poi se tante meraviglie sien fatte per inganno o pur per arte” – “You who enter here, consider carefully and tell me whether so many marvels are made for deception or for art.”

Created in the 16th century by Prince Pier Francesco Orsini, the park's purpose remains a Stonehenge-like mystery — art, mythology, madness, or a dedication to his late wife?

What is clear for sure is that it’s a great destination for families, with its otherworldly sculptures sparking the imagination of both children and adults.

A trip to Bomarzo can easily be combined with a picnic, hiking, and even a day tour to the medieval villages of Bassano in Teverina and Vitorchiano.

Unwind in Rome’s Lush Greenery

Rome’s green spaces offer a refreshing escape from the city's bustling streets, each with its own unique charm.

At Villa Borghese, a serene boat ride on the lake provides a quiet retreat surrounded by lush greenery and the elegant Temple of Aesculapius reflected in the water. A short stroll away, the Borghese Gallery houses world-renowned art, making it the perfect blend of culture and nature.

Meanwhile, Villa Doria Pamphili, Rome’s largest park, invites visitors to sprawl out on the grass for a leisurely picnic. With its vast green spaces, shaded trails, and baroque fountains, it’s an idyllic spot to unwind under the Roman sun.

For an even deeper connection with nature, the Botanical Garden of Rome and the Garden of Ninfa offer two distinctly enchanting experiences.

The botanical garden, nestled behind Palazzo Corsini, is a hidden oasis showcasing over 3,000 species, from towering palm trees to a tranquil Japanese garden with cascading waterfalls. A stroll here feels like a journey across the world’s most diverse landscapes.

In contrast, the Garden of Ninfa is pure fairytale magic — medieval ruins wrapped in ivy, crystal-clear streams weaving through wildflowers, and a secluded atmosphere that feels frozen in time. Its charming stone cottages evoke the timeless beauty of the Cotswolds, while graceful arched bridges, reminiscent of Mostar’s iconic masterpiece, cast perfect reflections in the water, adding to the dreamlike scenery.

For a more adventurous escape in nature, cycling along the ancient Appian Way offers a thrilling dive into Rome’s past — letting you effortlessly explore the grand ruins of emperors’ villas, towering aqueducts, and underground catacombs, all set against a backdrop of open fields and cypress-lined roads.

For a different kind of ride, blending nature and ancient ruins, you can visit a horse sanctuary in Ostia Antica. The volunteers will teach you how to care for rescued horses, and you’ll trot through a peaceful pine forest, uncovering a side of Rome where history and greenery merge in the most unexpected way. It’s a refreshing escape from the crowds of central Rome, sure to leave you feeling revitalized.

Live Rome Like a Movie Star

It’s hard to picture Rome without recalling Audrey Hepburn’s iconic Vespa ride through the city in William Wyler’s Roman Holiday or the unmistakable charm of a Fiat 500 winding through sun-drenched streets. More than just transport, these vehicles are symbols of Italian culture and cinema.

Here’s some great news: you can recreate these cinematic moments in Rome — cruising through the city in a vintage Fiat 500 or atop a Vespa, just like in the movies.

With a professional photographer documenting your chic journey, you’ll feel like the star of your own La Dolce Vita story — gliding past iconic landmarks like the Colosseum and Janiculum Hill, with Rome as your breathtaking backdrop.

For the ultimate luxury experience, why not get behind the wheel of Italy’s finest creation? Test-driving a Ferrari California Turbo through Rome or the rolling countryside isn’t just about the ride — it’s about feeling the passion and precision behind one of the world’s most legendary sports cars.

For a different kind of movie-star moment — this time as Ridley Scott’s Gladiator (minus the gruesome ending!) — you can don a tunic and master ancient swordplay at the Gladiator School. Suitable for all ages, it’s an exhilarating way to immerse yourself in ancient Rome while unleashing your inner Maximus.

Escape Rome’s Crowds for a Day

If you’re looking for a quick escape from Rome’s crowds, there are plenty of day trip options within an hour’s reach.

Ancient Ostia, just 30 minutes away, offers a peaceful alternative with some of the best-preserved ruins of an ancient Roman port city. Visitors can wander through its streets, bathhouses, and theaters, all without the usual crowds.

Tivoli, only about 45 minutes from Rome, is another excellent choice. The vast complex of Hadrian's Villa, covering over 120 hectares, was once the emperor’s private retreat, larger than many Roman towns. Meanwhile, the spectacular Villa d’Este features the famous Fountain of the Organ, which plays music through water pressure alone.

For lakeside tranquility, Castel Gandolfo, a 45-minute drive away, offers scenic views over Lake Albano and a peek inside the Pope’s summer residence, where the Secret Garden hides centuries of history.

For those willing to venture 2-3 hours south, Pompeii stands as one of the most iconic historical sites in Italy.

Buried by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD, this remarkably preserved city holds Roman homes, bathhouses, and haunting plaster casts of victims frozen in time. Walking through its streets feels like traveling 2,000 years back in time, offering a rare glimpse into everyday Roman life. A hike up Mount Vesuvius, the only active volcano on mainland Europe, reveals breathtaking views of the Bay of Naples.

A short distance from Pompeii, the Amalfi Coast’s stunning cliffside villages beckon with colorful houses, fragrant lemon groves, and legendary panoramic views. Positano, in particular, is a must-see, with its enchanting streets tumbling down the cliffs to the sea. Some tours cleverly combine Pompeii and the Amalfi Coast in one day, allowing visitors to experience both destinations in a single journey.

Another option for a coastal adventure is Ponza island, a mythical paradise linked to Homer’s Odyssey. Just a boat ride from the closest port, Ponza boasts crystal-clear waters, dramatic cliffs, and hidden grottoes. The Grotto of Circe, where the sorceress is said to have enchanted Odysseus’ crew, remains one of its most legendary sites. With picturesque beaches and a relaxed atmosphere, Ponza is an idyllic retreat.

For a taste of medieval charm and religious history, Orvieto and Assisi provide an enchanting escape just 2-3 hours from Rome. The golden-mosaic façade of Orvieto’s cathedral rises above a city hiding ancient Etruscan tunnels, offering a striking blend of history and beauty. In Assisi, the Basilica of St. Francis stands as one of Italy’s most significant religious landmarks, surrounded by winding medieval streets and a peaceful atmosphere. Both towns can be explored in a single day.

If you are looking for a true escape, head to Ronciglione, a charming medieval town about an hour from Rome, featured in Roberto Benigni’s triple Oscar-winning La Vita è Bella.

The town’s railway station served as a key location in the film’s deportation scenes, while the town itself offers stunning views, a mix of medieval and Renaissance architecture, and a peaceful atmosphere far from the crowds — perfect for those looking to immerse themselves in authentic Italian charm.

Bagnoregio is another hidden gem worth exploring. Known as the Dying City because of the gradual erosion of the cliffs it sits upon, it is perched on dramatic hills and can only be accessed by a single pedestrian bridge — offering the chance to take some of the most epic photos. The town’s narrow streets, stone houses, and sweeping views of the Valle dei Calanchi create a surreal, almost otherworldly atmosphere.

Finally, for those seeking a natural retreat, Saturnia Thermal Springs offers a timeless sanctuary where soothing hot waters have flowed for over 3,000 years. Surrounded by picturesque landscapes, these legendary pools provide the ultimate relaxation experience. The warm, mineral-rich waters and serene Tuscan countryside create the perfect setting to unwind after a few busy days in Rome.

After soaking in all these incredible experiences, it’s time to wrap things up with some practical details to ensure your trip runs smoothly.

Plan Your Rome Transport Ahead

While it's true that all roads lead to Rome, some paths are definitely more convenient than others!

If you’ve just landed at Fiumicino Airport, the Sit Bus Shuttle offers a fast and reliable connection to both Termini and the Vatican.

Once in Rome, the metro is an easy and efficient way to get around — check out the ATAC website for all the info on routes and schedules.

For a more comfortable sightseeing experience, hop-on hop-off buses provide extra perks like multilingual audio guides and Wi-Fi.

If you're looking for additional convenience, the Roma Pass grants access to unlimited public transport, including the metro and municipal trains, plus skip-the-line entry at select attractions and free access to toilets around the city.

Final Thoughts

Don’t worry if you can’t fit in all the attractions and activities listed above — after all, Rome wasn’t built in a day!

Simply wandering through Rome’s streets, with ancient ruins framing the view, sipping an Aperol Spritz, basking in the warm sun, and listening to the soothing sounds of live music is more than enough to absorb the city's unique energy. No queues, no entry tickets — just the pure, timeless charm of the Eternal City.

Wishing you an unforgettable trip to Rome, and thank you for reading my guide!

P.S. Save this guide in case the coin tossed in the Trevi Fountain brings you back to explore even more of the city's amazing activities!

Author

Anton Levytsky is a Malta-based photographer and an avid traveler in love with all things Mediterranean.