Best things to do in Rome, Italy: 35 must-see attractions + local travel tips

Looking for the best things to do in Rome? Italy’s capital is one of the most fascinating cities in the world, offering an incredible mix of ancient history, world-famous landmarks, stunning architecture, and unforgettable food experiences.

From exploring the iconic Colosseum and walking through the ruins of the Roman Forum to tossing a coin into the Trevi Fountain and visiting Vatican City, Rome is packed with attractions that appeal to every type of traveler. Whether you’re planning your first trip to Italy or returning to discover more of the Eternal City, there’s no shortage of incredible places to visit.

This guide covers the best attractions in Rome, hidden gems, local experiences, food recommendations, practical travel tips, and essential advice for first-time visitors. By the end of this article, you’ll have everything you need to plan an unforgettable trip to one of Europe’s most iconic destinations.

Why Visit Rome?

Rome is one of those rare destinations that exceeds expectations no matter how many photos you’ve seen beforehand. Italy’s capital is a city where ancient ruins stand beside elegant piazzas, world-famous museums, vibrant neighborhoods, and some of the best food you’ll ever taste. Every street seems to reveal another layer of history, whether it’s a Roman temple, a Renaissance palace, or a hidden church filled with masterpieces.

For first-time visitors, Rome offers an unforgettable introduction to Italy. The city is home to some of the world’s most iconic landmarks, including the Colosseum, the Pantheon, Trevi Fountain, and Vatican City. Yet beyond these famous attractions, Rome also rewards travelers who take time to wander through its charming neighborhoods, sip espresso in local cafés, and discover hidden corners away from the crowds.

What makes Rome truly special is its ability to blend past and present. You can spend the morning exploring archaeological sites that are nearly 2,000 years old and the afternoon shopping on fashionable streets or enjoying modern Italian cuisine. Whether you’re planning a short city break or a longer Italian adventure, Rome deserves a place at the top of your travel bucket list.

Ancient Rome Attractions – Best things to do in Rome

1. Best things to do in Rome: Colosseum

No visit to Rome is complete without seeing the Colosseum. As the largest ancient amphitheater ever built, this architectural masterpiece has become the symbol of Rome and one of the most visited attractions in the world. Construction began in 72 AD under Emperor Vespasian and was completed by his son Titus eight years later.

The Colosseum could hold up to 50,000 spectators who gathered to watch gladiator battles, animal hunts, theatrical performances, and public spectacles. While much of the original structure has been damaged by earthquakes and centuries of stone removal, the remaining sections still provide an incredible glimpse into the engineering achievements of the Roman Empire.

Walking through the arena is one of the most memorable experiences in Rome. Visitors can explore different levels of the monument, admire the underground chambers where gladiators and animals were once held, and imagine the atmosphere that filled the arena nearly two millennia ago. For the best experience, book your ticket in advance and consider joining a guided tour to understand the fascinating stories behind this iconic landmark.

2. Roman Forum

Located next to the Colosseum, the Roman Forum was once the political, religious, and commercial heart of ancient Rome. Today, it is one of the most important archaeological sites in the world and provides valuable insight into daily life during the Roman Empire.

As you walk through the ruins, you’ll encounter ancient temples, government buildings, triumphal arches, and public squares. Some of the most significant structures include the Temple of Saturn, the Arch of Septimius Severus, and the remains of the Senate House. Although many buildings now stand in ruins, their historical importance remains immense.

The Roman Forum is much more enjoyable when you understand its historical context. Rather than simply seeing broken columns and stone foundations, you’ll begin to picture the bustling center of an empire that once ruled much of Europe, North Africa, and the Middle East. It’s one of the most fascinating places for history lovers visiting Rome.

3. Best things to do in Rome: Palatine Hill

Palatine Hill rises above the Roman Forum and is considered one of the most important locations in Roman history. According to legend, this is where Romulus founded the city of Rome in 753 BC after defeating his twin brother Remus.

Over time, Palatine Hill became the preferred residential area for Roman emperors and wealthy aristocrats. Lavish palaces, gardens, temples, and villas once covered the hill, making it one of the most prestigious addresses in the ancient world.

Today, visitors can explore the ruins of imperial residences while enjoying some of the best panoramic views in Rome. Looking down over the Roman Forum from Palatine Hill helps bring the city’s ancient history to life. Because the site is included in the same ticket as the Colosseum and Roman Forum, it’s highly recommended to visit all three attractions together.

4. Pantheon

Among Rome’s many ancient monuments, the Pantheon stands out as one of the most remarkably preserved. Originally built as a temple dedicated to all Roman gods, the structure dates back nearly 2,000 years and remains one of the greatest achievements of Roman engineering.

The most impressive feature of the Pantheon is its enormous dome, which remains the largest unreinforced concrete dome ever constructed. At the center of the dome is the famous oculus, a circular opening that allows natural light to enter the building. On rainy days, water falls directly through the opening and drains away through a sophisticated system built into the floor.

Inside, visitors can admire beautiful marble decorations and the tombs of important historical figures, including the Renaissance artist Raphael and several Italian kings. Located in the heart of Rome’s historic center, the Pantheon is an essential stop on any sightseeing itinerary.

5. Temple of Hadrian

The Temple of Hadrian is often overlooked by visitors, yet it is one of Rome’s most impressive hidden historical treasures. Built in honor of Emperor Hadrian during the 2nd century, the temple once formed part of a grand religious complex dedicated to one of Rome’s most influential rulers.

Today, only a section of the original structure remains, but the surviving Corinthian columns are spectacular. Rising approximately 15 meters high, they create a dramatic contrast against the surrounding modern buildings.

One of the most fascinating aspects of Rome is how ancient monuments are integrated into everyday life. The Temple of Hadrian perfectly demonstrates this unique blend of old and new. While many tourists walk past without realizing its significance, those who stop to admire it gain a deeper appreciation for Rome’s extraordinary historical layers.

6. Capitoline Hill

Capitoline Hill is one of Rome’s famous Seven Hills and has played a central role in the city’s history for more than two thousand years. During ancient times, it served as the religious and political center of Rome, housing important temples and government buildings.

The square visible today was redesigned during the Renaissance by Michelangelo, who created one of the most beautiful urban spaces in Italy. The elegant symmetry, grand staircases, and impressive architecture make Piazza del Campidoglio one of the city’s most photogenic locations.

In addition to its historical significance, Capitoline Hill offers stunning views over the Roman Forum. Many visitors overlook this viewpoint, but it provides one of the best perspectives for understanding the layout of ancient Rome.

7. Capitoline Museums

Located on Capitoline Hill, the Capitoline Museums are considered the world’s oldest public museums. Founded in the 15th century, they contain an extraordinary collection of sculptures, paintings, artifacts, and archaeological treasures.

One of the museum’s most famous pieces is the Capitoline Wolf, the legendary bronze sculpture depicting the she-wolf who nursed Romulus and Remus. The collection also includes remarkable Roman statues, ancient inscriptions, and Renaissance artworks.

For travelers interested in Roman history but looking to escape some of the crowds found at the Vatican Museums, the Capitoline Museums provide an excellent alternative. The exhibits help connect the stories you’ve learned at the Colosseum and Roman Forum with the artistic achievements of later periods.

8. Castel Sant’Angelo

Situated along the banks of the Tiber River, Castel Sant’Angelo has served many purposes throughout its long history. Originally built as Emperor Hadrian’s mausoleum, it later became a military fortress, papal residence, prison, and eventually a museum.

The structure’s strategic location made it an important defensive stronghold for centuries. A secret elevated passage known as the Passetto di Borgo connected the castle directly to Vatican City, allowing popes to escape during times of danger.

Today, visitors can explore beautifully decorated rooms, historical exhibits, ancient walls, and panoramic terraces. The views from the top are among the best in Rome, offering a spectacular perspective of the city skyline, St. Peter’s Basilica, and the winding Tiber River below.

Best things to do in Rome: Why Ancient Rome Still Fascinates Travelers

One of the reasons Rome attracts millions of visitors every year is the extraordinary opportunity to walk through places that shaped world history. Few destinations allow travelers to stand inside a 2,000-year-old amphitheater, stroll through the political center of a vast empire, and admire engineering achievements that continue to amaze experts today.

Ancient Rome is not confined to museums. Its legacy is woven into the city’s streets, architecture, language, culture, and daily life. Every ruin tells a story of emperors, gladiators, senators, artists, and ordinary citizens who helped shape Western civilization.

As you explore these remarkable landmarks, you’ll quickly understand why Rome remains one of the most rewarding destinations in Europe. And this is only the beginning. In the next section, we’ll explore Vatican City, one of the world’s most important religious and artistic centers, along with some of Rome’s most iconic squares, fountains, and neighborhoods.

Vatican City Highlights – Best things to do in Rome

9. Best things to do in Rome: St. Peter’s Square

One of the most impressive public spaces in the world, St. Peter’s Square is the grand entrance to Vatican City and a place that leaves a lasting impression on almost every visitor. Designed by Gian Lorenzo Bernini in the 17th century, the square is framed by enormous colonnades that seem to embrace the thousands of people who gather here each day.

At the center of the square stands an ancient Egyptian obelisk that was brought to Rome nearly 2,000 years ago. Surrounding it are beautiful fountains and an atmosphere unlike anywhere else in the city. Whether you visit during a quiet morning or during a major religious celebration, the scale of the square is breathtaking.

St. Peter’s Square is also the site of the famous Papal Audience held on many Wednesday mornings, when visitors from around the world come to see the Pope. Even travelers who are not religious often find the experience fascinating because of its cultural and historical significance.

10. St. Peter’s Basilica

St. Peter’s Basilica is widely considered one of the greatest churches ever built. As the spiritual center of the Catholic Church, it attracts millions of visitors every year and is one of the most important landmarks in Rome.

The basilica’s immense interior is filled with masterpieces created by some of history’s greatest artists, including Michelangelo, Bernini, and Raphael. One of the highlights is Michelangelo’s Pietà, a stunning marble sculpture depicting Mary holding the body of Jesus.

Visitors can also climb to the top of the dome for one of the best panoramic views in Rome. The climb is challenging, but the reward is spectacular. From the top, you can see Vatican City, the historic center of Rome, and many of the city’s famous monuments stretching into the distance.

11. Best things to do in Rome: Vatican Museums

The Vatican Museums house one of the most extraordinary art collections on Earth. The complex includes dozens of galleries, museums, and exhibition spaces filled with treasures collected by popes over centuries.

Inside, visitors can admire ancient Roman sculptures, Egyptian artifacts, Renaissance paintings, and countless other masterpieces. The sheer scale of the collection is astonishing, and it would take days to see everything in detail.

Because the Vatican Museums are one of the most visited attractions in Europe, long lines are extremely common. Booking tickets in advance is highly recommended, and many travelers choose guided tours to better understand the significance of the artworks.

12. Best things to do in Rome: Sistine Chapel

The Sistine Chapel is the crown jewel of the Vatican Museums and one of the most famous artistic achievements in human history. Michelangelo’s ceiling frescoes, painted between 1508 and 1512, transformed Western art forever.

The most iconic section is The Creation of Adam, showing God reaching toward Adam with outstretched fingers. Visitors often spend several minutes simply looking upward in amazement.

In addition to the ceiling, Michelangelo’s monumental Last Judgment covers the altar wall. The chapel is also the place where papal conclaves are held to elect new popes, adding another layer of historical importance to this extraordinary space.

13. Piazza Venezia

Piazza Venezia is one of Rome’s busiest and most important squares. Located at the intersection of several major roads, it serves as a central point connecting many of the city’s historic neighborhoods.

The square is dominated by the massive Monument to Victor Emmanuel II, also known as the Altar of the Fatherland. Built to honor the first king of unified Italy, the monument is impossible to miss thanks to its brilliant white marble and grand staircases.

Visitors can enter the monument for free and explore its terraces, museums, and viewpoints. The panoramic terrace offers fantastic views over the Roman Forum and the surrounding city.

Best Squares and Landmarks in Rome

14. Best things to do in Rome: Trevi Fountain

Trevi Fountain is arguably the most famous fountain in the world and one of the top attractions in Rome. Standing 26 meters high and 20 meters wide, it is an extraordinary masterpiece of Baroque architecture.

The fountain is especially beautiful at night, when it is illuminated and the crowds begin to thin out. Many visitors choose to return after sunset to enjoy a more magical atmosphere.

According to tradition, tossing a coin into the fountain over your left shoulder guarantees a future return to Rome. Millions of coins are collected from the fountain each year and donated to charity.

15. Best things to do in Rome: Piazza Navona

Piazza Navona is one of the most elegant and lively squares in Rome. Built on the site of an ancient Roman stadium, the piazza retains its distinctive elongated shape.

The square is famous for its three magnificent fountains, particularly Bernini’s Fountain of the Four Rivers, which represents four major rivers from different continents.

Surrounded by cafés, restaurants, and historic buildings, Piazza Navona is an excellent place to relax, enjoy a gelato, and watch street performers while soaking up the atmosphere of Rome.

16. Spanish Steps

The Spanish Steps are among Rome’s most recognizable landmarks. This grand staircase connects Piazza di Spagna with the beautiful church of Trinità dei Monti above.

The area around the steps is one of Rome’s premier shopping districts, with luxury boutiques, international brands, and elegant streets filled with visitors throughout the day.

At the base of the staircase sits the charming Fontana della Barcaccia, a Baroque fountain designed by Pietro Bernini and his son Gian Lorenzo Bernini. The entire area is perfect for photography and people-watching.

17. Campo de’ Fiori

Campo de’ Fiori is one of Rome’s most vibrant squares and offers a different atmosphere from the city’s grand monuments. During the day, the square hosts a lively market selling fresh produce, flowers, spices, and local products.

The surrounding streets are filled with restaurants, wine bars, and cafés, making it a popular area for both tourists and locals.

In the evening, Campo de’ Fiori becomes one of the city’s social hubs. It’s an excellent place to enjoy dinner, sample Italian wine, and experience Rome’s energetic nightlife.

18. Trastevere

Trastevere is often considered the most charming neighborhood in Rome. Located across the Tiber River, it feels more authentic and local than many parts of the historic center.

Narrow cobblestone streets, ivy-covered buildings, hidden piazzas, and traditional trattorias create an atmosphere that captures the romantic side of Rome. The neighborhood is ideal for wandering without a strict itinerary.

Trastevere is also one of the best areas for food lovers. Many visitors come here specifically to try classic Roman dishes such as carbonara, cacio e pepe, and supplì in traditional family-run restaurants.

19. Gianicolo Terrace

Just above Trastevere lies Gianicolo Terrace, one of the best viewpoints in Rome. Although Gianicolo is not one of the famous Seven Hills, it offers some of the city’s most spectacular panoramic views.

From the terrace, visitors can see domes, church towers, ancient monuments, and rooftops stretching across the Eternal City. It is particularly beautiful at sunset, when the warm light gives Rome a golden glow.

The area also features monuments dedicated to Italian national heroes and is generally less crowded than many of the city’s major attractions.

20. Santa Maria del Popolo

Located near Piazza del Popolo, Santa Maria del Popolo is one of Rome’s most underrated churches. While the exterior appears relatively simple, the interior contains extraordinary works of art.

Visitors can admire masterpieces by Caravaggio, Bernini, Raphael, and other renowned artists. The church’s chapels are richly decorated and provide a fascinating look at Renaissance and Baroque art.

For travelers interested in art and history, Santa Maria del Popolo is an essential stop that is often overlooked by those following only the most famous tourist routes.

Why Vatican City and Rome’s Piazzas Are Essential for First-Time Visitors

Together, Vatican City and Rome’s historic squares showcase the city’s incredible diversity. In a single day, you can admire some of the world’s greatest artistic masterpieces, stand in the heart of Catholicism, and relax in beautiful piazzas that have served as gathering places for centuries.

These attractions represent the perfect balance between Rome’s religious, artistic, political, and social history. They are not just places to take photos—they are spaces where the story of Rome continues to unfold every day.

In the next section, we’ll explore more hidden gems, unique experiences, museums, food recommendations, and practical travel tips that will help you experience Rome beyond the classic tourist itinerary.

Hidden Gems in Rome – Best things to do in Rome

21. Appian Way (Via Appia Antica)

The Appian Way is one of the oldest and most impressive roads of ancient Rome, still partially intact today. Walking or cycling along it feels like entering an open-air museum, where history stretches for kilometers.

Along the route, you’ll find ancient ruins, tombs, aqueducts, and peaceful countryside landscapes. It’s a perfect escape from the busy historic center and offers a deeper look at Roman engineering and daily life.

22. Catacombs of St. Callixtus

The Catacombs of St. Callixtus form one of the largest underground burial systems in Rome. They were used by early Christians between the 2nd and 4th centuries.

A guided tour takes you through narrow tunnels filled with ancient tombs of martyrs and popes. The atmosphere is quiet, dark, and deeply historical, offering a unique perspective on early Christianity.

23. Basilica di San Clemente

The Basilica di San Clemente is one of the most fascinating hidden archaeological sites in Rome, offering a rare journey through multiple layers of history in a single location. From the outside, it looks like a relatively simple medieval church, but beneath it lies an entirely different world. Visitors can descend through three distinct levels: a 12th-century basilica, a 4th-century church, and even older Roman structures from the imperial period. Each layer reveals how Rome was continuously built over itself across centuries.

What makes San Clemente especially unique is the sense of walking through time in reverse. As you go deeper underground, you reach ancient Roman streets, pagan temples, and even an early Christian worship space. The atmosphere is quiet, almost mystical, and provides a powerful contrast to the busy city above. It’s an essential stop for travelers interested in Rome beyond its famous surface-level monuments.

24. Mouth of Truth (Bocca della Verità)

The Bocca della Verità is one of Rome’s most famous and playful landmarks, located in the portico of the Santa Maria in Cosmedin church. This large marble mask is believed to date back to ancient Roman times, possibly serving as a drain cover or decorative fountain piece. According to legend, it bites the hand of anyone who tells a lie while placing it inside its mouth.

Today, it has become a popular tourist attraction where visitors line up to take the iconic “hand-in-mouth” photo. Despite its simplicity, it represents Rome’s mix of myth, history, and storytelling traditions. The nearby church also adds value to the visit, offering a peaceful space away from the crowds.

Best things to do in Rome – Museums and Culture

25. Borghese Gallery

The Borghese Gallery is one of the most prestigious art museums in Rome, located inside the elegant Villa Borghese gardens. It is known for its controlled entry system, which limits visitor numbers and creates an intimate viewing experience. This allows guests to appreciate masterpieces without overwhelming crowds.

Inside, the museum houses works by Bernini, Caravaggio, Raphael, and Titian. Highlights include Bernini’s dramatic sculptures and Caravaggio’s emotionally intense paintings. The combination of art, architecture, and surrounding gardens makes it one of Rome’s most refined cultural experiences.

26. MAXXI Museum

The MAXXI Museum represents the modern side of Rome, both in architecture and artistic expression. Designed by renowned architect Zaha Hadid, the building itself is a masterpiece of contemporary design, with flowing lines and futuristic structures.

The museum focuses on modern art, photography, and experimental exhibitions. It offers a strong contrast to Rome’s ancient landmarks, showing how the city continues to evolve culturally. It is ideal for travelers who want to explore beyond classical history.

27. Palazzo Doria Pamphilj

Palazzo Doria Pamphilj is one of Rome’s most impressive private palaces, still owned by the aristocratic Doria Pamphilj family. Unlike many museums, it maintains a sense of authenticity, as if you are walking through a lived-in noble residence.

The gallery features an extraordinary collection of Baroque art, including works by Caravaggio, Velázquez, and Bernini. The lavish rooms, mirrors, and chandeliers create an immersive experience of Roman aristocratic life.

Best things to do in Rome – Neighborhoods & Local Life

28. Monti District

Monti is one of Rome’s oldest and most charming neighborhoods, located between the Colosseum and Termini Station. It combines historic streets with a trendy, bohemian atmosphere filled with boutique shops, cafés, and wine bars.

The district is popular among locals and travelers looking for a more relaxed and creative side of Rome. Its narrow streets and lively squares make it perfect for wandering without a fixed plan.

29. Testaccio District

Testaccio is known as the culinary heart of Rome, offering an authentic local experience far from tourist-heavy areas. It is deeply rooted in working-class Roman culture and traditional food.

The neighborhood is famous for its food market, trattorias, and nightlife scene. It is also where many classic Roman dishes originated, making it a must-visit for food lovers.

30. Prati District

Prati is a calm and elegant neighborhood located near Vatican City. It is known for its wide streets, organized layout, and residential feel, offering a more modern side of Rome.

The area is ideal for travelers who prefer quieter accommodations while staying close to major attractions like St. Peter’s Basilica and the Vatican Museums.

Best things to do in Rome – Extra Iconic Experiences

31. Villa Borghese Gardens

Villa Borghese Gardens is one of the largest and most beautiful parks in Rome, offering a peaceful escape from the city’s busy streets. It features fountains, sculptures, museums, and shaded walking paths.

Visitors can rent bikes, enjoy boat rides on the small lake, or simply relax in the green spaces. It is a perfect break between sightseeing activities.

32. Aventine Hill (Keyhole View)

Aventine Hill is one of Rome’s most peaceful and scenic areas, known for its quiet atmosphere and panoramic views. It is far less crowded than other famous hills in the city.

The famous “keyhole view” on Piazza dei Cavalieri di Malta frames a perfectly aligned view of St. Peter’s Basilica through a garden gate. It is one of Rome’s most unique photo spots.

33. Tiber River Walk

The Tiber River Walk offers a scenic route along Rome’s historic river, passing under ancient bridges and near iconic landmarks. It is especially beautiful during sunset.

Walking along the river gives a different perspective of the city, combining nature, history, and architecture in a relaxed atmosphere.

34. Jewish Ghetto (Rome Ghetto)

The Jewish Ghetto is one of Rome’s most historic and culturally rich neighborhoods, with a history dating back to the 16th century. It is one of the oldest Jewish communities in Europe.

Today, it is known for its traditional Roman-Jewish cuisine, historical synagogues, and charming streets filled with restaurants and bakeries.

35. Piazza del Popolo

Piazza del Popolo is one of Rome’s most iconic and symmetrical squares, located at the northern entrance of the historic center. It has been a gateway to the city for centuries, welcoming travelers arriving from the north of Italy.

The square features twin churches, an Egyptian obelisk, and beautiful fountains, creating a grand and balanced architectural setting. From here, visitors can easily access nearby attractions like Villa Borghese and the Spanish Steps, making it a perfect starting point for exploring Rome.

Conclusion: Is Rome Worth Visiting?

Rome is not just a destination—it is an experience that stays with you long after you leave. Few cities in the world offer such a powerful combination of ancient history, artistic mastery, vibrant street life, and unforgettable food culture in one place.

What makes Rome truly special is the way it connects past and present so seamlessly. In a single day, you can walk through 2,000-year-old ruins, admire Renaissance masterpieces, enjoy a modern espresso in a lively piazza, and end the evening in a historic neighborhood full of life. Every corner of the city tells a story, and every street feels like part of something much larger.

Whether you are visiting for the first time or returning to discover more hidden corners, Rome always has something new to offer. From iconic landmarks like the Colosseum and Vatican City to lesser-known gems like Aventine Hill or the Jewish Ghetto, the city rewards curiosity at every turn.

If you plan your itinerary well and leave space for spontaneous exploration, Rome becomes more than a checklist of attractions—it becomes a journey through time, culture, and emotion.

One thing is certain: Rome is not a city you simply visit. It is a city you experience, remember, and eventually, return to.

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