Rome is a beautiful city where ancient history and modern life coexist. It provides visitors with unforgettable experiences. There are numerous places to visit and different things to do in the city. If you are traveling to Rome, you may not know where to go and what to do. But feel free because this blog has short-listed the best things to do in the city. This guide will take you through the top 15 must-do activities in Rome and make sure that your visit is as enriching as it is memorable.
15 Best Things to Do in Rome
- Visit the Colosseum
- Tour the Roman Forum
- Admire the Pantheon
- Explore the Vatican Museums
- See St. Peter’s Basilica
- Walk Through Piazza Navona
- Throw a Coin in the Trevi Fountain
- Walk up the Spanish Steps
- Visit the Borghese Gallery
- Check out the Catacombs
- Wander Around Campo de Fiori
- Visit the Capitoline Museums
- See the Baths of Caracalla
- Explore the Basilica di San Clemente
- Look at the Fontana dei Quattro Fiumi
1. Visit the Colosseum
One of the first things you have to do if you’re traveling to Rome is see the Colosseum. This famous amphitheater is a remarkable marvel of ancient engineering which was formerly the site of dramatic spectacles and gladiator fights. You will feel the weight of history bearing down on you as you go between its enormous stone arches. Imagine the excitement of the chariot races that used to take place here, or imagine the roar of the crowd as gladiators fought for their lives.
Take some time to stand in the middle of the arena when you visit. It’s bizarre to imagine what it must have been like to be there thousands of years ago. You should also tour the underground cells where wild creatures were held before battles.
2. Tour the Roman Forum
It’s like strolling through the center of ancient Rome when you explore the Roman Forum. Imagine the Times Square of antiquity for this vast complex of ruins, which was once the hub of Roman public life. You will see the ruins of stately temples, significant administrative structures, and bustling marketplaces where Romans used to congregate as you meander through the Forum.
One of the highlights is the Temple of Saturn, with its imposing columns that have withstood the test of time. Don’t miss the Arch of Titus, which honors Roman conquests and provides an overview of the magnificence of Roman building design. It is simple to picture the spirited discussions that occurred in the Senate House or the vendors peddling their wares in the open market.
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3. Admire the Pantheon
One of the best-preserved ancient structures in the city is the Pantheon which is a must-see during a trip to Rome. The huge columns of the portico make a striking impression as you approach, but the real magic happens once you enter inside. For two millennia, the Pantheon’s dome has awed people with its magnificent architecture. It is currently the largest unreinforced concrete dome in the world.
Natural light is poured in through the dome’s central oculus, which creates a mysterious ambiance that shifts throughout the day. Rain or shine, the Pantheon’s charm is enhanced by the light that filters through the oculus, giving each visit its special quality. Stand beneath the dome for a bit and stare up. It’s a humble moment that helps you appreciate the magnificence of ancient Rome.
Don’t forget to pay a visit to the Pantheon, which houses the tomb of the renowned Renaissance artist Raphael. More than just a structure, the Pantheon is a reminder of Rome’s amazing past and creative architectural design.
4. Explore the Vatican Museums
It’s like diving into a historical and artistic treasure trove when visiting the Vatican Museums. The museums, which house one of the most remarkable art collections on earth, provide an unmatched window into human artistic accomplishments. You will come across pieces by masters like Leonardo da Vinci, Raphael, and Michelangelo that each tell a unique tale as you walk through the maze-like galleries.
The Sistine Chapel is the main attraction without a doubt. You’ll be astounded by the scope and grandeur of Michelangelo’s creations as soon as you enter and look up at his magnificent ceiling. One of the many masterpieces that adorn the chapel is the well-known fresco, “The Creation of Adam,” which has more complex details than the others.
The Sistine Chapel is not the only attraction in the Vatican Museums though. Not to be missed are the colorful frescoes in the Raphael Rooms and the breathtaking geographical representations of Italy in the Gallery of Maps. Allow the artwork to take you back in time as you take your time and appreciate all of the variations. The Vatican Museums offer an incredible journey through the height of human creation.
5. See St. Peter’s Basilica
If you are in Rome, you should visit St. Peter’s Basilica. This iconic church is the largest in the world that stands majestically in Vatican City and offers a profound experience. Built between 1506 and 1626, it’s renowned for its stunning Renaissance architecture and is a significant pilgrimage site.
As you step inside, you’ll be awestruck by its interior. The basilica’s dome, designed by Michelangelo, rises 136 meters (446 feet) high and offers panoramic views of Rome if you choose to climb to the top.
St. Peter’s Basilica is not just a place of worship, it’s a masterpiece of art and architecture. The elaborate mosaics and the impressive Baldachin by Bernini add to the basilica’s grandeur. When visiting, remember that appropriate attire is required; shoulders and knees must be covered.
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6. Walk Through Piazza Navona
Walking around Piazza Navona is like entering a lively outdoor living room where art, history, and ordinary life all coexist harmoniously. Once the location of an ancient Roman stadium, this bustling area is now one of Rome’s most picturesque and energetic locations. Three magnificent fountains greet you as soon as you reach the piazza. The elaborate sculptures in the fountain depict the four great rivers of the world, each with a distinct personality and backstory.
Piazza Navona is perfect for long walks, savoring a coffee at a local café, and soaking in the energetic atmosphere of street performers and local vendors. It’s a place where Rome’s rich history and vibrant present blend seamlessly.
7. Throw a Coin in the Trevi Fountain
Every traveler should appreciate tossing a penny into the Trevi Fountain. It’s a classic Roman experience. This magnificent Baroque work of art is more than just a lovely sight with its dramatic sculptures and tumbling water, it represents luck and hope. According to custom, you will eventually return to Rome if you toss a coin over your left shoulder with your right hand.
The enormous size and complex design of the statues, particularly the one showing Neptune in control of his chariot, will enthrall you as you get closer to the fountain. The sound of the water spouting into the fountain heightens the moment’s charm and creates a calm yet energetic mood.
The coin-throwing tradition normally draws a large number of tourists, but that adds to its allure. Take part, cast your wish, and watch as your coin joins the innumerable others that have been tossed into the fountain. It’s a small gesture, but one that has tradition and ties you to all the others who have been before you to this famous location.
8. Walk up the Spanish Steps
One of the most famous sites in Rome can be enjoyed by strolling up the Spanish Steps. These 135 steps connect the Trinità dei Monti church at the top with the Piazza di Spagna at the bottom. Constructed in the 18th century, the steps serve as a meeting point for both inhabitants and visitors while also being a means of transportation.
Admire the stunning Barcaccia Fountain which was created by Bernini and has a unique boat shape. The experience is made even more charming by the fact that the steps themselves are frequently embellished with flowers, particularly in the spring.
You’ll notice the bustling atmosphere around you as you ascend. You are rewarded with a breathtaking view of Rome’s spires and roofs as you reach the summit. With its two bell towers, the Trinità dei Monti church is a stunning sight, and the neighborhood exudes a timeless, romantic aura. For those seeking a space to relax, take pictures, or just take in the atmosphere, the Spanish Steps provide an ideal location to see the very best of Rome.
9. Visit the Borghese Gallery
For both fans of art and history, a trip to the Borghese Gallery is a delight. Located in the lush Borghese Gardens, this museum is a must-see on any trip to Rome since it holds an amazing collection of Renaissance and Baroque masterpieces. Works by some of the finest artists in history, such as Caravaggio, Raphael, and Bernini, welcome you as soon as you walk into the gallery.
The magnificent sculptures at the museum are well known, particularly Bernini’s powerful pieces like “Apollo and Daphne” and “The Rape of Proserpina.” These works exhibit Bernini’s great talent by capturing strong moments of emotion and movement besides being striking visually. Also included in the collection are Caravaggio’s dramatic “Boy with a Basket of Fruit” and Raphael’s “The Deposition,” each of which provides a unique window into the avant-garde skills of the artist.
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10. Check out the Catacombs
Exploring Rome’s underground past is a captivating experience when visiting the Catacombs. Located on the outskirts of the city, these ancient burial grounds provide a unique window into the lives and death of early Christians. You’ll be impressed by the feeling of reverence and stillness that permeates these underground corridors as you descend into the cool, dark caverns.
Among the most well-known are the catacombs of San Callisto and San Sebastiano. Complex murals and antiquated inscriptions that provide insights into early Christian symbols and customs can be found here. The elaborate network of this underground realm is shown by the winding pathways that are dotted with tombs and burial niches.
From the second to the fifth century, several of the catacombs were in use and played a crucial role in the lives of early Christians as sites of worship and interment. You’ll notice as you explore the sometimes ornate decorations that allude to the community’s artistic talent and commitment, as well as the straightforward yet moving memorials.
11. Wander Around Campo de Fiori
You can completely experience Rome’s bustling daily life by walking through Campo de Fiori. This bustling area provides a flavor of the local character and culture. It is well-known for its vibrant nightlife and busy market throughout the day.
The square is transformed into a vibrant market with local specialties, flowers, and fresh fruit in the morning. The aroma of freshly baked bread and seasonal fruits fills the air, making it an ideal spot to have a coffee and people-watch. For centuries, the market has been an integral part of Roman culture, and the lively conversations between merchants and customers enhance the genuine Roman experience.
The atmosphere at Campo de’ Fiori becomes more laid back as the day goes on. There are several quaint cafés and restaurants around the area where you can sit and have a glass of wine or a leisurely meal. Rome’s complicated past is brought to light by the stately statue of philosopher Giordano Bruno, who was burnt at the stake in 1600.
12. Visit the Capitoline Museums
It’s like walking into a treasure mine of Roman art and history when you visit the Capitoline Museums. The museums are situated on Capitoline Hill and have an amazing collection that spans centuries and includes everything from Renaissance paintings to ancient statues.
The Piazza del Campidoglio, created by Michelangelo, is the starting point of your visit and provides the backdrop for the splendor of the Capitoline Museums. A striking collection of sculptures greets you as soon as you walk in. A cornerstone of the museum’s collection, this renowned statue represents the might of Roman imperial power.
13. See the Baths of Caracalla
The Baths of Caracalla transport one back to the splendor of classical Rome. Once some of the biggest and most luxurious public baths in the empire, these enormous remains provide an amazing look into Roman daily life and architectural skill.
You will be astounded by the complex’s enormous size as you explore the vast area. When the baths were first constructed in the early third century AD, 1,600 people could use them at once. You can still see traces of the magnificent structures, with their enormous open areas, tall walls, and elaborate mosaics, which once held the baths in magnificence. The frigidarium (cold bath), tepidarium (warm bath), and caldarium (hot bath) are astounding in their sheer magnitude.
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14. Explore the Basilica DI San Clemente
Discovering the Basilica di San Clemente in a single visit is like pulling out several tiers of Rome’s luxurious past. This unusual chapel, which is close to the Colosseum, provides an engrossing trip through several periods of Roman history and architecture.
Begin your tour by going into the current Basilica, which is a magnificent illustration of early Christian construction with elaborate marble work and exquisitely adorned mosaics. The church, which dates back to the 12th century, is well known for its magnificent apse mosaic, which features Christ Pantocrator surrounded by colorful Old Testament themes.
15. Look at the Fontana Dei Quattro Fiumi
Gazing upon the Fontana dei Quattro Fiumi is a captivating sight that embodies the spirit of Baroque art. Located in the center of Piazza Navona, this magnificent fountain was created by Gian Lorenzo Bernini in 1651 and is still regarded as one of the most renowned works of art in Rome.
You will be astounded by the fountain’s majesty and the sculptures’ lively movement as you go closer. The Nile, Ganges, Danube, and Rio de la Plata are the four principal rivers that are represented by the fountain and come from four continents. The power and majesty of the rivers they represent are reflected in the dramatic poses adopted by each river god.
Bernini gives these characters life by his use of dramatic contrasts and minute details. Observe how the river gods’ strong, flowing forms mix with symbolic components like the central obelisk, which lends the composition a sense of vertical grandeur.
Conclusion:
Rome’s timeless allure is reflected in its diverse and historic attractions. More than 35 million tourists visit Rome every year. As you wander through ancient ruins and baroque squares, Rome’s blend of history, art, and culture ensures an unforgettable experience. Every corner of this eternal city tells a story waiting to be discovered. If you visit Rome, you must do the things mentioned in this guide. With the top 15 things to do in Rome, you will be able to make your visit a memorable one.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What I Cannot Miss While Visiting Rome?
When you are visiting Rome, you can not miss the beautiful Colosseum. This iconic site is a testament to the ancient history of Rome.
Is 3 Days Enough for Rome?
Rome is a place where no time is good enough as it offers numerous things to do and places to see. However, three days are good enough to get to know about the city.
Which Neighborhoods Should I Avoid in Rome?
Some neighborhoods in Rome have high crime rates and you should avoid going there. Those neighborhoods are Romanina, Corviale, San Basilio, and Tor Bella Monaca.
Which Part of Italy Is the Most Beautiful?
There are so many beautiful places in Italy. Some of the best parts of Italy are:
- Tuscany
- Amalfi Coast
- Cinque Terre
- Venice
- Lake Como
- Rome
Is Italy Safer Than France?
Italy is comparatively safer than France as it has a safety index of 53.10 whereas France has a safety index of 44.62.
