Rome has a way of making you feel like you’ve stepped into a movie set—except the ruins are real, the gelato is better than anything you’ve ever tasted, and the chaos is part of the charm. Whether you have three days or a full week, your Rome travel itinerary will be packed from morning to night with iconic landmarks, hidden corners, and enough history to make your head spin in the best possible way.
Chris and I have a rule when we travel: walk at least five blocks away from the tourist crowds and see what you find. In Rome, that rule paid off in spades. We stumbled onto narrow cobblestone streets lined with iron balconies bursting with flowers, found a tiny trattoria where an Italian Nonna was rolling fresh pasta in the window, and watched an entire neighborhood come alive in the Jewish Quarter on a warm evening. Rome rewards the wanderers.
25 Things to Do in Rome You Simply Can’t Miss
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Seriously, some of the best things to do if you are planning a Rome weekend excursion will have you wanting to return to the city again and again. Spark your bucket list ideas with amazing architecture, Roman ruins, delicious gelato, stunning works of art inside and outside of museums, and beautiful cathedrals. If you’re still in the early stages of planning your international trip, start with that guide first—then circle back and let this guide help you build the perfect Rome travel itinerary.
Already focused on Italy? Check out my tips for planning a trip to Italy before diving into your planning out your Rome itinerary.
1. The Colosseum
Standing as the largest amphitheater ever built, the oval-shaped Colosseum sits at the heart of Rome and should be at the top of every Rome travel itinerary. You’ve seen it in pictures your entire life—seeing it in person is something else entirely. With a history that includes gladiatorial contests, animal hunts, and public spectacles for crowds of up to 80,000, it is as fascinating as it is sobering. Book your tickets well in advance—this is not one to leave to chance.
2. Roman Forum
The Roman Forum was once the beating heart of ancient Rome—the site of elections, criminal trials, religious ceremonies, and public speeches. Today it is one of the most visited archaeological sites in the world, and walking through it feels like flipping through the pages of a history book. The rectangular open-air Forum sits between Palatine Hill and Capitoline Hill and is home to an impressive collection of monuments, temples, and ruins worth exploring at a leisurely pace.
3. Palatine Hill
Often considered the birthplace of Rome, Palatine Hill offers stunning views over the Forum and the Colosseum and is well worth the extra time to explore. The hill is covered in ruins of palaces built for Rome’s upper class, including the House of Augustus with its remarkably preserved frescoes and the Farnese Gardens—among the first botanical gardens in Europe.
One important note: Be sure to visit the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill on the same visit. You will not be allowed back in with your Roma Pass.
4. Pantheon
The Pantheon is the best-preserved temple from ancient Rome and an architectural wonder that has been imitated for centuries—Thomas Jefferson’s library at the University of Virginia is one famous example. Once thought to be a pagan temple, it now functions as a Christian church known as the Basilica di Santa Maria ad Martyres. As you step inside, take a moment to look up at the famous oculus—the 27-foot opening at the top of the dome that has let in light and rain for nearly 2,000 years. If people are there to worship, be respectful.
5. Obelisks
As you explore Rome, you will encounter obelisks seemingly around every corner—13 in total, more than any other city in the world. Five are Roman and eight are Egyptian, some dating back over 3,000 years. They were originally built to commemorate events or individuals, and several were brought to Rome following victories in Egypt. Keep an eye out for them as you move between sites—they have a way of appearing when you least expect them.
6. Trevi Fountain
The Trevi Fountain is one of the most iconic landmarks in all of Rome and absolutely worth the crowds—and there will be crowds. Located in Piazza di Trevi, the fountain features the sea god Oceanus driving a shell-shaped chariot drawn by seahorses, flanked by the statues of Abundance and Salubrity.
As of February 2026, a €2 ticket is required to enter the close-up basin area—the spot where you toss your coin—between 9am and 10pm daily. Viewing the fountain from Piazza di Trevi remains free at any time. If you want photos without a hundred strangers in them, arrive at first light.
Did you know that there is a Trevi Fountain webcam?
7. The Spanish Steps
The 135 travertine steps linking Piazza di Spagna to the Trinità dei Monti church at the top are one of Rome’s most visited landmarks—and yes, they are as steep as they look.
If you have seen “Roman Holiday“, you already know that these steps are a popular tourist draw. Visiting the steps is on the bucket list of things to do in Rome for everyone. But if you have spent the past three days in Rome seeing as much as possible, you might be as tired as the man in blue sitting on the steps!
A few things worth noting when you visit: the Barcaccia fountain at the base, the Casina Rossa where English poet John Keats once lived, and the high-fashion shopping along Via Condotti. One important rule: sitting, lying down, or leaving a mess on the steps can earn you a fine of up to €400. The police take it seriously, even if it doesn’t always look that way.
8. Castel Sant’Angelo
Castel Sant’Angelo is less a fairytale castle and more a serious fortification—but what it lacks in prettiness it makes up for in history. Most notably, it served as a designated papal escape route via the elevated Passetto di Borgo passageway connecting Vatican City directly to the castle. On two occasions it provided a means of escape for popes in genuine danger. Worth a visit, and the rooftop views over the Tiber are excellent.
9. Piazza Navona
Piazza Navona is one of Rome’s most beautiful and lively public squares, built on the site of an ancient Roman stadium. The piazza is home to three fountains, the most impressive being Bernini’s Fountain of the Four Rivers at the center—an elaborate baroque masterpiece representing four major rivers of the world. Street artists, outdoor cafes, and a steady stream of locals and tourists make this a perfect spot to slow down, people-watch, and soak in the energy of the city. Come in the evening when the fountains are lit and the atmosphere is at its best.
10. Roman Markets
Rome’s markets are some of the best in Italy—and a few have been around for centuries. Whether you are hunting for fresh produce, vintage clothing, antiques, or just an excuse to wander, there is a market for every mood. Here are the best ones to add to your Rome travel itinerary:
- Campo De’ Fiori — One of Rome’s most beloved morning markets, selling fresh fruits, vegetables, and flowers in a stunning piazza setting. If you are following the Rick Steves Audio Tours, this is the first stop on the Heart of Rome tour. Open Monday–Saturday.
- Porta Portese — Rome’s most famous flea market, held every Sunday morning in Trastevere from 7am to 2pm. A little bit of everything—antiques, clothing, curiosities.
- Mercato Monti — The hip, curated option. Handcrafted fashion, vintage clothing, jewelry, and designer finds. Open Saturday and Sunday from 10am to 8pm.
- Borghetto Flaminio — A posh second-hand market just north of Piazza del Popolo. Open Sunday from 10am to 7pm.
- Fontanella Borghese — Perfect for collectors—out-of-print art books, vintage prints, and antique maps. Open Monday–Saturday from 7am to 1pm.
- Mercato Trionfale — Rome’s biggest indoor market near the Vatican, with over 300 stalls of fresh produce, cheese, meat, and fish. Frequented by locals more than tourists. Open Monday–Saturday from 8am to 1:30pm.
- Mercato dell’Unità — Great for a picnic spread, located north of the Vatican. Open Monday–Saturday from 7am to 6pm.
- Nuovo Mercato Esquilino — A busy, multicultural market near Termini Station with international foods and goods. Open Monday–Saturday from 5am to 3pm, Saturday until 5pm.
- Mercato di Campagna Amica — A farm-to-table produce market near Circus Maximus. Open Saturday and Sunday from 10:30am to 7pm.
Vatican City
Vatican City is its own sovereign state tucked within the city of Rome—and it deserves at least a full day on your Rome travel itinerary. The sheer scale of St. Peter’s Square, the grandeur of the Basilica, and the overwhelming collection inside the Vatican Museum make this one of the most visited destinations in the world for good reason.
11. St. Peter’s Square
Standing in St. Peter’s Square for the first time is one of those moments that genuinely stops you mid-step. The enormous piazza in front of St. Peter’s Basilica is framed by a sweeping colonnade of 284 columns and 88 pilasters, with the Egyptian obelisk standing tall at the center. Much of the square is cordoned off with barricades, but the scale and grandeur are impossible to miss from any angle.
12. St. Peter’s Basilica
Entry to St. Peter’s Basilica is free, but plan for a line and come dressed appropriately—shoulders and knees covered. Large bags and backpacks may need to be checked at the entrance, and you will pass through metal detectors tucked between the columns. Once inside, look up. The scale and detail of the interior are unlike anything most people have seen before. Take your time.
13. Vatican Museum & the Sistine Chapel
Book your tickets in advance. I cannot say this enough. When we visited without advance tickets, the line stretched down the block and around the corner—and that was before we even got inside. Once in, expect wall-to-wall people in some areas, but do not let that deter you. The collection is extraordinary, with works by Michelangelo, da Vinci, Raphael, Caravaggio, and more.
Be sure to look down at the incredible floor mosaics, tour the Egyptian Collection, and do not miss the famous spiral staircase on your way out. As for the Sistine Chapel—Michelangelo painted the ceiling and the altar wall. That is really all you need to know. Photography and loud talking is not permitted inside, and a recorded voice will remind you of this loudly and repeatedly. We found it funnier than it probably should have been.
Hidden Gems In Rome
Rome’s most famous landmarks will take your breath away—but the moments you remember most are often found just a few blocks off the tourist trail. The neighborhoods, ruins, and quiet corners in this section are where Rome slows down and feels like a city people actually live in rather than a museum you pass through. Don’t skip them.
14. Trastevere
Pronounced Trest-avery, this picturesque neighborhood is located across from the old Jewish Ghetto. Pass over the oldest bridge in Rome—the Fabricio Bridge spans the Tiber River and is located south of the Vatican.
Pronounced Trest-avery, Trastevere is the neighborhood Rome locals actually love. Cross the Fabricio Bridge—the oldest bridge in Rome—over the Tiber River and you will find yourself in a maze of narrow cobblestone streets lined with ivy-covered buildings, colorful doors, and outdoor restaurants that spill onto the piazza. It is lively, it is charming, and it is exactly what you picture when you imagine wandering through Rome. Come in the evening when the neighborhood really comes alive—just know that everyone else has gotten that memo too.
15. Jewish Quarter
Cross back over the Fabricio Bridge from Trastevere and you will find yourself in Rome’s ancient Jewish Quarter. One of my favorite moments in all of Rome happened right here—I sat in the piazza and just watched. Men dressed up for the evening gathered on one side to talk and laugh, their wives claimed benches on the other. Every so often a husband would wander over to join the women’s conversation. It had probably been happening this way for hundreds of years.
When Chris and I stood to leave, we realized we had been sitting in “their” spots. No unkindness, no words—just a quiet reclaiming of the bench the moment we were up. Some things are universal.
16. Temple of Apollo Roman Ruins
Tucked within the Jewish Quarter, the Temple of Apollo ruins are free to visit and easy to miss if you are not looking for them. The ruins sit alongside the Theater of Marcellus and the Porticus Octaviae—three layers of Roman history standing together in one spot. No ticket, no tour required. Just wander over and take it in.
17. Gelato
Gelato in Rome is not optional—it is a daily requirement. You will find gelato shops on practically every block, but quality varies wildly. A good rule of thumb: if the gelato is piled high in colorful mountains, keep walking. The real stuff is stored in covered metal containers.
Look for a shop with a short ingredient list, natural colors, and locals in line. Conde Nast Traveler recommends Gelateria La Romana, Gelateria della Palma, and Fiordiluna as top picks if you want a reliable starting point.
18. Italian Food
One of the best tips I can offer for finding authentic places to eat in Rome: walk at least five blocks away from the main tourist areas. The restaurants closest to the major landmarks know they have a captive audience—and the menus and prices reflect it. Venture a little further and you will find quieter, quainter spots where locals actually eat.
A few restaurants worth noting from personal experience:
- La Bruschetta E — Via Sardegna 39
- Pizzeria Porta Castello — Largo di Porta Castello 27
- Mattarello Parioli — Viale Liegi 64, Junction Piazza Ungheria. The menu included a note that still makes me laugh: “Pasta with chicken and pizza with fruit are not Italian food. Please don’t ask us to cook these for you.”
- Vatican Museum Cafeteria — A perfectly acceptable lunch option if you are already at the museum
- Caffetteria Ristorante Le Terrazze — Lungotevere Castello 50, inside Castel Sant’Angelo, with a charming terrace and excellent views
19. Audio Tours
If you want to get the most out of Rome’s major sites without paying for a private guide, the free Rick Steves Audio Tours are an excellent option. There are currently ten Rome tours available when you download the Rick Steves Audio Europe App—covering everything from the Colosseum to the heart of Rome. We used them throughout our visit and loved having the context as we explored.
Hopefully, GuideAlong Audio Tours will branch out to European cities someday!
20. Take the Metro
Rome’s metro system is straightforward and surprisingly useful for getting between major sites. The closest stop to the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill drops you off almost directly in front—which is exactly what you want after a long day of walking. Download offline maps before you leave your hotel, keep your portable charger handy, and let the metro do the heavy lifting between neighborhoods.
On our first trip to Rome, our family grabbed a quick lunch from street vendors as we exited the metro station right in front of the Colosseum and then began a bucket list day of exploration.
21. The Roma Pass
The Roma Pass is one of the smartest purchases you can make before exploring Rome. Available as a 48-hour or 72-hour pass, it includes free entry to your first two museums or archaeological sites, discounted entry to additional sites, and unlimited use of local public transport. The pass activates from the moment of first use—not the purchase date—so plan accordingly.
A few important notes: reservations are still required for some included sites, including the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill. And if you enter the Forum, visit Palatine Hill at the same time—you will not be allowed back in with your pass. Purchase the Roma Pass at tourist info points around the city or check the Roma Pass website for current pricing and a map of pickup locations.
22. Villa Borghese & Borghese Gallery
Villa Borghese is Rome’s answer to Central Park—a sprawling green escape in the middle of the city that most tourists rush past on their way to the next landmark. Take the time to slow down here. The grounds are beautiful for a morning walk or a picnic, and the views over Rome from the Pincian Hill terrace are some of the best in the city.
The real gem is the Borghese Gallery inside—a relatively small but extraordinary museum housing one of the finest private art collections in the world, including stunning sculptures by Bernini and paintings by Caravaggio, Raphael, and Titian. Tickets are timed and limited to two-hour entry windows, and they sell out well in advance. Book early or you will miss it entirely.
23. Take Instagram Worthy Pictures of Rome
Rome is one of the most photogenic cities in the world—ancient ruins, baroque fountains, cobblestone alleys, and golden light around every corner. Whatever camera you are working with, you will not struggle to find a great shot. A few of the most iconic spots for photos: the Colosseum at sunrise, the view from Pincian Hill over Piazza del Popolo, the spiral staircase at the Vatican Museum, and the narrow streets of Trastevere. Arrive early at the major landmarks for the best light and the fewest people in your frame.
Pack the Right Camera for Rome
Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark III — Compact enough to slip into a pocket, with 4K video and excellent low-light performance. Perfect if you want a real camera without the bulk.
Canon EOS R50 — A beginner-friendly mirrorless with a touchscreen, solid autofocus, and 4K video. A great step up from a smartphone without a steep learning curve.
Canon EOS R10 — More controls and better handling than the R50. Great if you are ready to explore Manual or Aperture Priority mode.
Canon EOS R6 Mark III — For the advanced photographer who wants the best of everything. Outstanding autofocus, image stabilization, and image quality in a travel-friendly body.
Canon 6D Mark II — Still a fantastic DSLR for advanced photographers comfortable in Manual mode. It is what I carry. If it is already in your bag, bring it—Rome will reward you.
Smartphone — Modern phone cameras are genuinely impressive. I usually wander with my DSLR around my neck and my phone in hand—and no, I do not blend in.
Tips for Taking Photos in Rome
- Arrive early. The Trevi Fountain, Colosseum, and Spanish Steps are dramatically less crowded at first light—and the soft morning light is better for photos anyway.
- Be patient. At busy sites, a few minutes of waiting can clear your shot entirely. Or embrace the crowds and make them part of the story.
- Look up—and down. Rome’s ceilings, floors, and doorways are as photogenic as the landmarks themselves.
- Wander the side streets. Some of the best shots in Rome have nothing to do with the famous sites—iron balconies, colorful doors, a Vespa parked against a crumbling wall.
- Golden hour is magic. The warm light on Rome’s honey-colored buildings in the late afternoon is unlike anywhere else.
- Camera gear matters less than you think. A modern smartphone will capture stunning images. Bring what you’re comfortable with and focus on the moment.
Best Tours in Rome
Rome is endlessly walkable and easy enough to navigate on your own, but a good tour can completely change how you experience the city. Whether you want to learn to cook like a Roman or let a local guide take you through 2,000 years of history on foot, these are two experiences worth adding to your Rome travel itinerary.
24. A Cooking Class
What better way to immerse yourself in the culture of Rome than to take a cooking class? Learn to make fresh pasta, perfect your gnocchi technique, or master a classic Roman sauce—all with a glass of wine in hand. I even have a recipe if you want to try making gnocchi like an Italian Nonna before your trip. For booking a hands-on cooking class in Rome, Viator has excellent options.
25. Walking Tour of Rome
A guided walking tour is one of the best ways to hit the major landmarks without missing the stories behind them. A good guide will take you through the history of the Colosseum, the Forum, and the Vatican in a way that no audio tour or guidebook can fully replicate. Whether you opt for a small group tour or a private guide, it is time and money well spent—especially on your first visit to Rome.
Day Trips From Rome by Train
Rome could keep you busy for a week and still leave you wanting more—but if you have extra days, the rest of Italy is practically at your doorstep. The train system makes it surprisingly easy to reach some of the country’s most iconic destinations without a car or a complicated itinerary. From ancient ruins to hilltop towns to the Amalfi Coast, these are the best day trips and overnight escapes from Rome by train.
Orvieto — A stunning hilltop town perched dramatically above the Umbrian countryside, about 1.5 hours from Rome by train. The centerpiece is the breathtaking Duomo di Orvieto, one of the finest Gothic cathedrals in Italy. Wander the medieval streets, sample the local white wine, and enjoy the views from the cliff’s edge.
Siena — One of the most beautiful medieval cities in Italy, about 3 hours from Rome by a combination of train and bus. The fan-shaped Piazza del Campo at the heart of the city is worth the trip alone. Plan for a full day.
Florence — About 1.5 hours by high-speed train and endlessly worth it. The Uffizi Gallery, the Duomo, Ponte Vecchio, and some of the best gelato in Italy are all within walking distance of each other. Check out my full guide to things to do in Florence for everything you need to know.
Venice — About 4 hours by train and a world unto itself. Add a vaporetto trip out to Murano for the glassblowing and Burano for the absurdly colorful houses—both are worth the extra effort.
Pompeii — About 2 hours by train to Naples with a short transfer to Pompeii. Walking through the preserved ruins of a city frozen in time by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius is one of the most extraordinary experiences in all of Italy. Read my full guide to things to do in Pompeii before you go.
Sorrento — A charming clifftop town on the Bay of Naples, about 2.5 hours from Rome by train. Use it as a base for exploring the Amalfi Coast or just enjoy the views, the limoncello, and the pace of southern Italian life.
Amalfi Coast & Positano — About 3.5 hours from Rome by train to Salerno, then by ferry or bus along the coast. Positano is the most photogenic town on the coast—steep, colorful, and genuinely breathtaking.
Isle of Capri — About 4.5 hours from Rome by train and ferry. The Blue Grotto, the stunning views from Villa Jovis, and the turquoise waters of Marina Piccola make this one of the most iconic day trips in all of Italy.
A Place to Stay in Rome
Finding the right place to stay in Rome can make or break your trip—location matters more here than almost anywhere else. Staying within walking distance of the major landmarks saves time and keeps you in the energy of the city. Chris and I stayed at the Hilton Garden Inn on one visit, which was a little further from the center but worked well for our family with the option of adjoining rooms. For most travelers, somewhere between the Colosseum and the Vatican is the sweet spot.
For booking, I always check around for the best rates and availability. If you are a Hilton Honors member, Rome has solid options worth checking with your points.
Driving & Parking a Car in Rome
Renting a car in Rome is not recommended—and if you have ever watched Roman traffic as a pedestrian, you will understand immediately. The city center is one of the most congested in Europe, and navigating it behind the wheel is more stress than it is worth. Rome is designed to be walkable, and the metro and public transit fill in the gaps nicely.
If you do rent a car, be aware of the ZTL (Zona Traffico Limitato)—a camera-monitored restricted traffic zone covering much of the historic center. Driving into a ZTL without a permit will earn you an automatic fine of up to $136 USD, delivered to your home address. No opportunity to explain yourself. If your hotel is within a ZTL zone, contact them in advance to register your license plate with the traffic police before you arrive.
Getting to the Airport
Rome has two main airports—Fiumicino (Leonardo da Vinci) for most international flights and Ciampino for budget carriers. Arrange your transport to the airport at least a day or two before departure so there are no last-minute scrambles with luggage in tow. The Leonardo Express train connects Fiumicino directly to Termini Station and is the fastest and most stress-free option. Taxis and private transfers are also widely available.
Whatever you choose, give yourself plenty of time—international flights need extra runway for check-in, security, and customs.
If you happen to be randomly selected and get the dreaded “SSSS” on your boarding pass (as I did), you will have to go through extra security screening at some point before being allowed to board your flight. If you are traveling with others, expedite this extra screening by emptying all of your pockets, removing your jacket, and giving your backpack or bags to your traveling companion.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Rome called the Eternal City?
Rome is often referred to as the “Eternal City”. It was believed by ancient Romans that regardless to whatever was happening in the world, Rome would go on forever and outlast the rise and fall of many empires.
How many days should you spend in Rome?
Depending on your itinerary, plan for at least three days in Rome. This gives you the chance to see many of the major attractions in the city and perhaps leave you with a few notable things to do in Rome on your next visit.
Is Rome a walkable city?
Definitely. The main tourist areas in Rome are in a fairly compact area.
What is the best time of the year to plan a trip with things to do in Rome?
The best times of the year are from April to June and September to mid-November. These are the most temperate times of the year, but may also be the busiest and most expensive.
Where would I find the best gelato in Rome?
While you are correct in thinking you need to have gelato while in Rome, finding the best gelato is key. You can’t go wrong with Conde Nast Traveler’s top 3 recommendations: Gelateria La Romana, Gelateria della Palma, and Fiordiluna.
What happens when you throw a coin in the Trevi Fountain?
According to tradition, tossing one coin over your shoulder into the Trevi Fountain means you will return to Rome—yes, please. Two coins means you will return and fall in love. Three coins means you will return, fall in love, and get married. More than 3,000 euros in coins are thrown into the fountain every day. As of February 2026, accessing the basin area to toss your coin costs €2 per person between 9am and 10pm daily. Viewing the fountain from the piazza above remains free at any time.
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All Roads Lead Back to Rome
Rome is one of those cities that earns every superlative thrown at it—and then some. Two days, three days, or a full week, you will leave with a list of things you still want to see and a serious craving for more gelato. Take the time to wander past the famous landmarks into the quieter streets, sit in a piazza long enough to watch the neighborhood come alive, and eat somewhere a local would actually go. The Eternal City has been doing this for 2,000 years. It knows what it is doing.
Before you go, make sure you are packed and ready—check out my Italy Travel Planning Bundle so you don’t leave anything important behind.
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I have spent some time in Europe, but haven’t made it to Rome. It is at the very top of my list of places to go. This is such helpful information!
So many beautiful things to see and photograph! Too bad taking pictures isn’t allowed in the Sixtine Chapel.
By the way, three thousand euros a day in coins at the Trevi Fountain?WOW!!!! It gives you an idea of how popular is this site.
Thanks for the heads-up regarding getting tickets in advance!
Rome is one of my favorite cities! This is a great list 🙂
I’ve always wanted to visit Rome! I’d want to do every one of these things to do.
I hope you get the chance.
I have so many great memories of visiting Rome! I am looking forward to bringing my kids there someday. I had to laugh when you mentioned renting a car in Rome… I’m a brave soul… but I would NEVER do that! LOL
Local transit is so great, unless you are going outside the city, you don’t really need a car in Rome.
So many great places to visit in Rome! I loved seeing all of these but it’s been so long how I would love to go back! My favorites are probably the Colosseum, the Pantheon and Sistine Chapel!
I would always go back.
Great guide and list of things to do in Rome. While we couldn’t fit Italy into our visit this year, we are definitely looking into it for next year! So, I will surely need this!
I love how you also included suggestions for camera options – no point in going to visit a place like Rome with anything but a decent camera! Can’t wait to see all these amazing destinations in person.
I am all about the pictures!
Awesome post! I’ve visited Rome a couple times, but only for a couple days. I really want to go back and explore all the markets you’ve shared! They sound so wonderful!
There is just something fun about searching for treasures you didn’t even know you needed!
Rome is one of my most favorite cities! We haven’t been there in nearly 5 years now. Thanks for the reminders of how wonderful it is!!
Probably time to go back.
These all look like amazing places to visit. I’ve been reading a lot of books based in Italy lately so my wanderlust is high and it was fun reading through and seeing pictures! I didn’t know you couldn’t sit on the Spanish steps anymore. 400 Euros is a big fine, so hopefully you don’t get tired halfway up, lol!
Well, sitting on the steps is a rule, but I never saw it enforced as there were hundreds of people sitting on them.
Isn’t Rome just the best! You have a great list of things to do here. We especially agree with just taking pictures. We took thousands on our first trip to Rome. LOL! Thanks for sharing!
I agree. It is always my first choice.
Wow! This is a comprehensive post. I’ve been to Italy a couple of times and loved each visit. You have given me a few new things to see in Rome
There’s always room for one more trip to Italy!
I think we probably feel that about any city we visit. There’s always more to see.
Great tips for visiting Rome! I never seem to get the passes and then always wonder if I should have 🙂
We don’t always buy the passes either when we travel, but they were totally worth it in Rome.
Ah, beautiful Roma, one of my favourite cities. You’ve touched on all the best places to go and things to see. It was a great way to spark some old memories of visiting here as I read your article.
I actually haven’t made it to Rome yet so I loved reading your tips. There are so many things to do here, I think I’ll have to spend more than a week.
We love to pick just a few things to see and do on each visit to Rome. Your post has given me some good things to add for future visits. I will be sure to check out the Roma Pass the next time. Castel Sant’Angelo was not on our radar so we will add that one to check out. But we certainly will not be driving in Rome!
I did not know the Pantheon is still used as a church. Really thorough information!
Thanks so much.
Such a thorough post! Italy is on my short list and I am definitely saving this for future reference. Thank you!
Loved this post. I am planning for Italy this summer, and this post was highly helpful.
I really enjoyed reading this post, it brought back some great memories of my time in Rome. I especially enjoyed visiting the Colosseum and Forum, but there are some other sights I’d love to visit when I go back.
There’s just something about seeing the major sites that you’ve heard about all of your life.
Great recs! I definitely will take you up on the restaurant recs for sure!
Well, you could spend a lifetime in Italy and still have stuff to see!
I want to try Palatine Hill out next time I visit!
Me too!
I was there in late summer and it was just too hot and too crowded. I have always wanted to return in the off season or shoulder season. This has inspired me to make it happen.
My favorite quirky thing on my most recent visit to Rome was taking photographs of all the colorful doors in Travestere. I’d absolutely loved staying in this neighborhood. I found the most elegant historic AirBnb.
Your guide is an absolute Rome bible! You’ve perfectly captured the essence of Rome’s hustle and bustle. Your comprehensive tips on driving and parking in Rome are a game-changer for anyone tackling the city’s streets. The way you’ve compiled the essentials, even for those familiar with Rome, adds a fresh perspective. Thanks for this guide!
Loved visiting Rome. I remember that we also found it so silly that they were saying silence, please the whole time in the Sistine chapel, being louder than the rumor from the crowd.
So many great things to do in Rome! One of my favorites is visiting the Villa Borghese — the art is spectacular!
Rome is one of my favorite places! I am returning this year, and will have to check out some of the markets you recommended.
I have been to Rome a few times but didn’t know about some of these. Will have to go back to make sure I hit them all!!
Wow – this is a huge list of things to do in Rome. I love the look of taking a cooking class – especially to perfect my Gnocchi (I don’t always get it right!). I would like to try some of these on my next trip to Rome.
This lists highlights so many of my favorite spots in Rome. One thing we enjoyed also was the great street art, such as chalk paintings of the Mona Lisa on the sidewalk.
This is a fab list, thanks! Hoping to take our kids to Rome next year so saving this one 😃
There are gems, and then there are gems and I love visiting them all in Rome!
Great mix of popular and less well known spots… would love to get to Rome in 2026.
So many wonderful things to do and explore in Rome. Great advice to include day trips from Rome – I would love to explore Pompeii on a day trip.
I love the Trastevere neighborhood! I did a food tour there that was a highlight of the trip!
So much info. I wish we had had this post when we went to Rome! I will say that we went to Trastevere bc it’s on everyone’s must-see list and relatively close to our rental but man… Everyone else got that info too! We walked around, saw the crazy lines for restaurants, and left!