Rome, the Eternal City, is a treasure chest of history, culture, and unforgettable experiences. Whether it’s your first visit or your tenth, there’s always something new to explore. In this guide, we’ll take you through the 15 best things to do in Rome, from world-famous monuments to hidden gems, delicious food tours, and unique day trips. If you are planning your vacation, knowing the 15 best things to do in Rome will help you create the perfect itinerary.
1. Visit the Colosseum and Roman Forum
No trip to Rome is complete without stepping into the Colosseum, the world’s most iconic amphitheater. Built between 70 and 80 AD under the Flavian emperors, this massive arena once hosted gladiator combats, animal hunts, and theatrical reenactments that drew crowds of up to 50,000 spectators. Walking through its ancient corridors gives you a sense of the grandeur and drama of Roman entertainment.
Just steps away lies the Roman Forum, the true heart of ancient political and social life. Here you’ll find temples dedicated to Saturn and Venus, triumphal arches, and the Senate House, where decisions that shaped the empire were made. For history enthusiasts, combining the Colosseum and Forum in one visit is essential. Guided tours often include fast-track access and expert storytelling, making this experience one of the 15 best things to do in Rome for anyone who wants to immerse themselves in the city’s glorious past.
2. Explore the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel
The Vatican Museums are a treasure trove of art, culture, and history, stretching across more than 7 kilometers of galleries. Every corridor reveals masterpieces by Renaissance geniuses such as Raphael, Leonardo da Vinci, and Caravaggio. Highlights include the Raphael Rooms, the Gallery of Maps, and the Gallery of Tapestries. The crown jewel, of course, is the Sistine Chapel. Standing beneath Michelangelo’s awe-inspiring ceiling is an experience unlike any other: scenes of Creation, the Last Judgment, and intricate biblical details surround you in vivid color and breathtaking scale.
Because the museums are often crowded, plan your visit early in the morning or late afternoon. Hiring a guide will help you notice hidden details and understand the context of the works. Visiting the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel is a cultural pilgrimage, which is why it ranks high among the 15 best things to do in Rome.
3. Stroll Through St. Peter’s Basilica
St. Peter’s Basilica is one of the largest and most magnificent churches in the world, a masterpiece of Renaissance and Baroque architecture. Inside, you’ll marvel at Michelangelo’s Pietà, Bernini’s grand Baldacchino, and stunning mosaics that seem like paintings from afar. The vast interior can hold over 20,000 worshippers, and the atmosphere is both spiritual and awe-inspiring. For the adventurous, climbing to the top of the dome offers breathtaking views over St. Peter’s Square, the Vatican Gardens, and Rome’s skyline.
The climb is steep—over 500 steps—but the reward is worth every effort. Entry is free, though modest dress is required, so make sure shoulders and knees are covered. Whether you are religious or simply fascinated by architecture, a visit here is unforgettable and easily one of the 15 best things to do in Rome.
4. Throw a Coin in the Trevi Fountain
The Trevi Fountain is more than just a baroque masterpiece; it’s a living tradition. Designed by Nicola Salvi in the 18th century, the fountain features Neptune, the god of the sea, surrounded by Tritons guiding sea horses. The tradition says tossing one coin guarantees your return to Rome, two coins promise a new romance, and three coins ensure marriage. Each day, thousands of visitors participate in this ritual, contributing to the fountain’s magical atmosphere.
Did you know that the coins collected—amounting to nearly a million euros annually—are donated to charity? Visit early in the morning or late at night for a quieter experience, when the fountain is beautifully lit. Taking part in this tradition is not just fun but deeply symbolic, making it one of the 15 best things to do in Rome.
5. Wander Around Piazza Navona
Piazza Navona is one of Rome’s most picturesque squares, built on the site of an ancient Roman stadium. Its elongated shape hints at its sporting past, but today it’s filled with art, music, and energy. The centerpiece is Bernini’s Fountain of the Four Rivers, representing the Nile, Danube, Ganges, and Rio de la Plata. Surrounding it are two other fountains and the baroque Church of Sant’Agnese in Agone.
Cafés and gelaterias line the square, making it the perfect place to relax with a coffee while enjoying street performers. During Christmas, the square hosts a lively holiday market with stalls selling sweets, decorations, and toys. Strolling through Piazza Navona lets you feel the pulse of Roman life, which is why it deserves a spot in the 15 best things to do in Rome.
6. Visit the Pantheon
The Pantheon is one of the most remarkable buildings of antiquity, still standing in near-perfect condition after almost 2,000 years. Built by Emperor Hadrian around 118 AD, its massive dome remains the largest unreinforced concrete dome in the world. The oculus at the center of the dome allows natural light to flood the interior, creating a mystical atmosphere that changes with the time of day.
Originally built as a temple to all gods, the Pantheon was later converted into a Christian church, which has preserved it through the centuries. Today, it houses the tombs of important figures, including the painter Raphael. Entry is free, and the square outside is lively with cafés and street musicians. A visit to the Pantheon combines architectural wonder with cultural vitality, making it one of the 15 best things to do in Rome.
7. Walk Up the Spanish Steps
The Spanish Steps, built in the 18th century, connect Piazza di Spagna with the Trinità dei Monti church. Comprising 135 elegant steps, the staircase has long been a meeting place for both locals and travelers. At the base, you’ll find the Barcaccia Fountain by Bernini, and at the top, sweeping views of the city. The area is also a paradise for shopping, with Via Condotti and Via del Babuino nearby, home to luxury fashion boutiques.
During spring, the steps are adorned with blooming azaleas, making the scene even more photogenic. Sitting on the steps with a gelato in hand is a quintessential Roman experience. This iconic spot is not only a feast for the eyes but also an atmosphere filled with history and glamour, placing it firmly among the 15 best things to do in Rome.
8. Take a Rome Tour by Car
Exploring Rome by car with a private driver offers comfort and flexibility that public transportation can’t match. Our Rome Tour by Car allows you to discover highlights like the Colosseum, the Vatican, and Piazza Venezia, while also reaching lesser-known gems outside the city center. A professional driver provides local insights, and you can customize the itinerary to your interests.
Traveling in a luxury Mercedes-Benz ensures a stress-free experience, whether you want to stop for photos, enjoy a coffee, or explore a hidden neighborhood. If you are short on time or traveling with family, this is one of the 15 best things to do in Rome, giving you a complete overview of the Eternal City in total comfort.
9. Savor a Frascati and Ariccia Porchetta Tour
Rome isn’t just about monuments; it’s also about flavors. Just outside the city lies the Castelli Romani area, famous for its wines and culinary traditions. Our Frascati and Ariccia Porchetta Tour takes you through charming villages where you’ll taste DOC wines and enjoy the authentic porchetta, a slow-roasted pork specialty that locals adore. Along the way, you’ll discover vineyards, historic cellars, and scenic views of the Roman countryside.
This tour combines food, culture, and tradition, making it one of the most authentic experiences for visitors. For travelers who want to go beyond monuments and taste the real Italy, it ranks among the 15 best things to do in Rome.
10. Take a Day Trip to Pompeii and Herculaneum
Few places in the world can transport you back in time like Pompeii and Herculaneum. Both cities were destroyed by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD and preserved under volcanic ash. Walking through the ruins, you’ll see villas with frescoes, ancient bakeries, and streets that look as if the inhabitants just left. Our Pompeii and Herculaneum Tour from Rome offers a full-day adventure, with a private driver taking you directly from your hotel to the sites.
Having a guide enhances the visit, bringing the silent ruins to life with stories of daily Roman life. For anyone fascinated by history, this excursion is an unforgettable highlight and one of the 15 best things to do in Rome—even though it takes you outside the city.
11. Enjoy Shopping at Castel Romano Outlet
Rome is synonymous with fashion, and Castel Romano Designer Outlet is a shopper’s paradise. Located just outside the city, it features over 150 stores offering discounts on luxury brands like Gucci, Prada, and Valentino. Our Shopping Tour Castel Romano Outlet provides convenient transport, allowing you to focus on finding the best deals. Between shopping sessions, you can relax in cafés or enjoy Italian snacks. The outlet’s open-air design makes it a pleasant experience, combining retail therapy with leisure. If you love fashion, this is not just an optional excursion—it’s one of the 15 best things to do in Rome, blending style with the Italian art of la dolce vita.
12. Relax in Villa Borghese Gardens
Villa Borghese is Rome’s green lung, a sprawling park filled with sculptures, fountains, and shaded paths. Originally the private estate of the Borghese family, today it’s a public space where locals jog, families picnic, and travelers unwind. The highlight is the Borghese Gallery, which houses masterpieces by Caravaggio, Bernini, and Canova. Renting a bike or segway is a fun way to explore the park, and children love the small zoo inside. From the Pincio Terrace, you can enjoy one of the most famous views over Piazza del Popolo and the city skyline. Spending time in Villa Borghese offers a refreshing break from the hustle of sightseeing and deserves its place among the 15 best things to do in Rome.
13. Taste Authentic Roman Cuisine
Rome is as much a feast for the palate as it is for the eyes. Traditional dishes like carbonara, amatriciana, and cacio e pepe tell stories of Roman culture and heritage. Street food is just as important—supplì (fried rice balls) and pizza al taglio (pizza by the slice) are beloved by locals. To truly dive into the culinary scene, join a food tour where guides lead you to authentic trattorias, bakeries, and markets. Don’t forget to indulge in gelato at a family-run gelateria. Exploring Roman cuisine connects you with the city’s soul, and that’s why savoring its flavors counts among the 15 best things to do in Rome.
14. Discover Trastevere
Trastevere is one of Rome’s most charming neighborhoods, known for its cobblestone streets, ivy-covered facades, and lively piazzas. During the day, you can visit the Basilica of Santa Maria in Trastevere, one of the oldest churches in the city, with beautiful mosaics. At night, the neighborhood comes alive with trattorias, bars, and street performers. Wandering aimlessly through its alleys is the best way to discover hidden gems, from artisan shops to small wine bars. It’s the perfect place to experience the authentic Roman lifestyle away from the crowds. A visit to Trastevere captures the city’s spirit and definitely belongs to the 15 best things to do in Rome.
15. Admire Sunset from Gianicolo Hill
The Gianicolo, or Janiculum Hill, is not one of Rome’s traditional seven hills, but it offers one of the best panoramic views of the city. It’s especially magical at sunset, when the rooftops glow golden and the dome of St. Peter’s stands out against the sky. The hill is also rich in history, with monuments to heroes of the Italian unification and a daily cannon fired at noon. Couples, families, and photographers gather here to capture the unforgettable atmosphere. Ending your day with this view allows you to reflect on the beauty of the Eternal City, making it the perfect finale and one of the 15 best things to do in Rome.
Getting Around Rome with Ease
Exploring all these attractions is easier with the right transportation. Instead of dealing with crowded public transport, consider booking a private transfer. With our trusted partner BatMobile Transfer, you can travel comfortably in luxury vehicles with professional bilingual drivers. When planning the 15 best things to do in Rome, having reliable transport is key to enjoying your time without stress.
Final Tips
Rome is a city where history meets modern life at every corner. From ancient ruins to delicious culinary experiences, you’ll never run out of things to see and do. To ensure your trip is seamless, plan ahead, book your tours in advance, and always allow extra time to simply wander and soak in the magic of the Eternal City.
For authentic feedback from travelers, check out our Google Reviews and see why visitors trust us to make their Rome experience unforgettable. With the 15 best things to do in Rome, your journey will be nothing short of extraordinary.
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