Top 20 UNIQUE Things to Do in Rome!

The many fascinating things to do in Rome make the Italian capital to one of the world’s most popular tourist destinations. The ancient city of Rome, St. Peter’s Basilica and the Vatican have been on the UNESCO World Heritage List since 1980. During your trip, you will be able to marvel at the countless attractions, historic buildings, museums, and archaeological sites that you can easily explore on your own during a city walk. The world-famous Colosseum, the much-photographed Trevi Fountain, the legendary Spanish Steps and the Vatican with St. Peter’s Basilica are just a few of the most important places of interest in ancient Rome. But there are many more highlights and exciting activities that are waiting for you while you are sightseeing in Rome! But what are the top things to do in Rome, what are the insider tips, and what are the must-see attractions?

In this guide, we have compiled the most beautiful attractions and the best things to do in Rome that you should not miss. Furthermore, there are also plenty of insider tips on tickets and activities to help you plan your trip!

Rome

The Colosseum

The Colosseum is the city’s landmark and a must-see in Rome. It is the largest ancient amphitheater in the world and a visit is a must on any city trip. This historic attraction was the site of bread and games, such as gladiator fights, animal fights and even ship battles. Built between 72 and 80 AD, it is still considered the most spectacular building in ancient Rome. With 80 gates leading into the interior, it could hold 50,000 people. It was in use for almost 450 years, after which it gradually fell into disrepair. In the Middle Ages it was used as a residence and later was a stone quarry for the popes. Today, the Colosseum is the most historically significant attraction in Rome and can be visited from the inside. It is also worth seeing at night because of the magnificent light show!

Tip: It is highly recommended to make an online reservation for the Colosseum. Without one, you might have to wait in line for hours. You can book tickets online!

Colosseum

Colosseum

Trevi Fountain

A visit to the world-famous Trevi Fountain is one of the most beautiful things to do in the center of Rome. This imposing attraction was built in the 18th century and is the largest baroque fountain in the city, at around 26 meters high and 50 meters wide. Countless visitors flock here at almost any time of day or night to take their best pictures of Rome. The fountain is made of travertine and marble, and you can admire several sculptures, including Neptune standing on a horse-drawn shell chariot. Thanks to the illumination, this sight is worth a visit even at night! According to legend, if you toss a coin over your right shoulder into the Trevi fountain, you will be lucky and, moreover, a return trip to Rome is guaranteed.

Tip: There are some very luxurious accommodations in the vicinity of the Trevi Fountain, such as Maalot Roma, which offers a unique ambience and excellent service.

Trevi Fountain

Roman Forum

One of the most important tourist attractions in ancient Rome is the Roman Forum. It was once the central marketplace of the city and played a central role in Roman history between the 7th century BC and the 4th century AD. In its heyday, the Forum was the political, religious and commercial heart of the Roman Empire. Today, it is a huge open-air museum where you can walk along ancient paths and admire the temples and buildings of the Roman era! The Roman Forum is located between the Palatine and Capitoline Hills. The main monuments are the Triumphal Arches of Constantine, Septimius Severinus and Titus, the Temple of Vesta and the Temple of Saturn.

Tip: You can save time and money with a combined ticket. This includes several interesting attractions, such as the Colosseum, the Roman Forum and the Palatine Hill.

Roman Forum (Rome)

Palatine Hill

The Palatine Hill is one of the highlights of Rome and should not be missed on any tour of the city. At a height of 51 meters, it is one of the 7 hills of the city and from the top you can enjoy the best view of the Colosseum and the entire Roman Forum. The Palatine Hill is said to have been inhabited as early as the 10th century BC, making it the oldest part of Rome. This hill was the preferred residence of the Roman upper class and numerous imperial palaces, villas and temples were built here. Today, a visit to the excavations of imperial residences and beautiful gardens are high up on any list of the best things to do in Rome. The Palatine is particularly famous for the Palace of Emperor Augustus and the House of the Vestal Virgins, the virgins of the goddess Vesta.

Palatine Hill

View from Palatine Hill

Pantheon

The Pantheon is one of the best preserved monuments of ancient Rome. It was originally begun by Emperor Trajan around 114 AD and later completed under Emperor Hadrian between 125 and 128 AD. It is said to have served as a sanctuary for the gods of Rome. The Pantheon then became a Christian church and was dedicated to the Virgin Mary and all Christian Martyrs. Today, the building is one of the most impressive attractions in the center of Rome. The huge columns and the impressive open dome, which for over 1700 years was considered the largest in the world with an internal diameter of 43.44 meters, are striking. A real eye-catcher from the outside, the interior of the church is also interesting to visit.

Pantheon

Vatican City & St. Peter’s Square

One of the most famous attractions in Rome is the Vatican, a sovereign state in the middle of the city. The center of the Catholic Church and the residence of the Pope is St. Peter’s Basilica, officially called the Basilica di San Pietro. This beautiful basilica and St. Peter’s Square of the same name were built on the site where St. Peter’s tomb is believed to be. The Vatican is also home to many tourist spots, such as the Apostolic Palace, the Vatican Gardens, the Vatican Museums, and the Sistine Chapel, which houses Michelangelo’s famous ceiling painting “The Creation of Adam,” all of which can be easily explored on foot. Moreover, the dome of St. Peter’s Basilica is particularly spectacular, as it is one of the best viewpoints in the city at 136 meters!

St. Peter’s Square (Vatican)

St. Peter’s Basilica

The St. Peter’s Basilica, officially known as the Basilica of St. Peter in the Vatican, is one of the most important religious buildings in Europe and one of the must-see attractions in Rome. Located in St. Peter’s Square in the Vatican, this imposing church is impressive for its monumental architecture. It is also the final resting place of several popes, including Pope John Paul II. Construction of St. Peter’s Basilica began in 1506 and took over 100 years. Artists such as Michelangelo and Gian Lorenzo Bernini were involved in its construction. A highlight is the dome of St. Peter’s, designed by Michelangelo, which offers a breathtaking view of Rome. The interior of the church with its statues, altars and frescoes is also worth seeing.

Tip: If you want to visit this attraction without having to wait in line, we recommend that you book a ticket in advance or take a guided tour!

St. Peter’s Basilica

Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel

A major highlight in Rome is a visit to the Vatican Museum and the Sistine Chapel. With over 5 million visitors a year, it is one of the most famous museums in the world. It houses an impressive collection of art, including sculptures, paintings, ancient artifacts and precious art treasures collected by popes over the centuries. On a tour, you can visit 54 rooms with world-famous works of art by Leonardo da Vinci, Raphael and Caravaggio. The main attraction of the Vatican Museum is undoubtedly the Sistine Chapel, with its beautiful frescoes. Here you can admire Michelangelo’s “The Last Judgement” on the altar wall and the ceiling painting “The Creation of Adam”.

Tip: The Vatican Museum is the most famous museum in all of Rome. If you want to avoid queuing for hours, be sure to reserve tickets beforehand!

Vatican Museum

Piazza Navona

Absolutely beautiful and wonderful place to see in Rome is a visit to the Piazza Navona. In ancient Rome, this square was an athletic stadium built under Emperor Domitian, measuring 275 x 106 meters, it could hold over 30,000 spectators and also served as a venue for gladiator games during the renovation of the Colosseum. Today it is one of the most charming and picturesque squares in the Old Town and is one of the top 10 best things to do in Rome. Here you can enjoy a lively atmosphere with many street artists and numerous restaurants and cute cafés. Don’t miss the Fontana dei Quattro Fiumi, the church of Sant’Agnese in Agone, and the Obelisk. You can also visit the excavations of Domitian’s ancient stadium.

Tip: The hotel Lifestyle Suites Rome is a real insider’s tip. During your stay, you will be able to enjoy a magnificent location and a wonderful view of the Piazza Navona.

Piazza Navona

Victor Emmanuel II Monument

The Victor Emmanuel II Monument, also known as the Monumento Nazionale a Vittorio Emanuele II, the Typewriter or the Wedding Cake, is located right in Piazza Venezia and is one of the most interesting national monuments in Rome. This huge white marble monument was constructed in 1927 in honor of the first king of united Italy, Victor Emmanuel II. The large bronze equestrian statue of King Victor Emmanuel II is particularly striking and a popular photo subject, and the monument also houses the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, whose flame burns as a symbol of the fallen. If you are interested in history, the Museum of Italian Reunification is worth a visit.

Tip: An insider’s tip for a vacation in Rome is to visit from the terrace, the Terrazza delle Quadrighe. From up here you can enjoy a gigantic 360° panoramic view!

Victor Emmanuel II Monument

Terrazza delle Quadrighe

Castel Sant’Angelo

The Castel Sant’Angelo, also known as Castle of the AngelsCastle of the Holy Angel or Mausoleo di Adriano, is one of the most significant attractions in Rome. Originally built in the 2nd century as a mausoleum for the Roman Emperor Hadrian, it was later converted into a fortress by various Roman popes. In those days, this imposing castle served as a refuge and later even as a prison. Today, Castel Sant’Angelo is a museum and has been open to the public since 1906. A tour of the interior is highly recommended, especially for those interested in history! Also worth seeing is the Castel Sant’Angelo Bridge, which connects Castel Sant’Angelo to the Vatican.

Tip: Don’t forget to visit the Roof Terrace of the Castel Sant’Angelo, from where you can enjoy a spectacular panoramic view of Rome, including the Vatican.

Castel Sant’Angelo

Spanish Steps

The world-famous Spanish Steps are one of the most visited attractions in Rome and a popular photo spot for travelers from all over the world. Built between 1723 and 1725 under the direction of French architect Francesco de Sanctis, it is a true masterpiece of Roman Baroque architecture. The 135 steps connect the picturesque Piazza di Spagna with the French church Trinità dei Monti, which sits on a hill and offers a fantastic view of Rome. But beware, sitting on the Spanish Steps has been banned since 2019. This measure is regularly strictly enforced to preserve the monument.

Tip: One of the best boutique hotels in Rome is the stunning Rocco Forte Hotel De La Ville, located in an 18th-century palazzo just above the Spanish Steps.

Spanish Steps

Villa Borghese Park

The Villa Borghese Park is a beautiful 5 square kilometer city park with manicured gardens, fountains, temples and a picturesque lake. It was created in the 17th century as the summer residence of Cardinal Scipione Caffarelli Borghese. A tour of the city reveals numerous pretty squares and attractions, such as the small Laghetto di Villa Borghese, where couples enjoy a romantic trip in a rowboat, and the Piazza di Siena racecourse for horse shows and concerts. Also worth exploring is the Galleria Borghese, with its art museum, and a visit to the popular Bioparco zoo is one of the best things to do in Rome with kids.

Tip: Rome is also beautiful in winter when the Christmas markets take place! An insider tip is the Christmas village “Christmas World” in the Villa Borghese Park.

Park Villa Borghese

Trastevere District

The trendy Trastevere district, which translates as “beyond the Tiber,” was once a working-class neighborhood and is now one of Rome’s hippest areas. Here you can enjoy an authentic Roman experience with a wide variety of hip trattorias, bars, cozy cafés, unique shops and affordable accommodations. The neighborhood is especially lively at night, as Trastevere is an insider’s tip for going out in Rome. Among the most famous places to see are Piazza di San Calisto and Piazza Santa Maria, where the church of Santa Maria of the same name boasts magnificent mosaics. Trastevere is located just a few minutes away from Rome’s historic center and can be easily explored by walking.

Tip: Trastevere is definitely an insider’s tip for where to stay in Rome. A recommendation is the Hotel Santa Maria in the middle of the neighborhood, with beautiful rooms and a garden.

Trastevere

Capitoline Square

The Capitoline Square, also known as Piazza del Campidoglio, is the central heart of the Capitol. It is at the top of the list of the best things to do in Rome and a visit is a must on any sightseeing tour of the city. It was originally a hollow in ancient times, filled in during the Middle Ages, and completely redesigned in the 16th century under the direction of Michelangelo. Today, the Capitoline Square is home to many interesting monuments. In the center of the square stands the bronze equestrian statue of Emperor Marcus Aurelius. In addition, the trapezoidal buildings around the square, including the Senatorial Palace and the Palazzo Nuovo, give the Capitoline Square an imposing backdrop.

Piazza del Campidoglio

Trajan’s Markets

The Trajan’s Markets, also known as the Mercati di Traiano, are an impressive architectural ensemble built during the reign of the Emperor Trajan in the 2nd century AD. The actual function of these brick buildings is difficult to interpret archaeologically, but it is believed that they served as a trading center and warehouse with shops and restaurants. Inside the markets are the so-called Great Assembly Hall, the Torre delle Milizie and the Great Hemicycle. The complex was rebuilt and inhabited several times over the centuries, and was rediscovered in 1926-1934. Today, this emblematic landmark of Rome can be visited from the outside, free of charge. But the interior is also worth seeing, as it houses the Museo dei Fori Imperiali since 2007.

Trajan’s Markets

Piazza del Popolo

One of the most famous squares in Rome is Piazza del Popolo, also known as the People’s Square. The spacious piazza has been redesigned many times over the centuries and now boasts a magnificent ensemble of fountains, monuments and churches. There are also a number of interesting attractions in and around the square. One highlight is the 3300-year-old  Egyptian obelisk of Ramses II in the middle of the square. Also worth seeing are the 3 churches in Piazza del Popolo, including the church of Santa Maria del Popolo and the two almost identical churches of Santa Maria in Monte Santo and Santa Maria di Miracoli.

Tip: If you take the steps from the Piazza del Popolo up to the park of the Villa Borghese, you will be rewarded with a fantastic view of Rome!

Piazza del Popolo

Bocca di Verita

An unusual thing to do in Rome is a visit to the Bocca di Verita, the so-called Mouth of Truth. It is located in the portico of the church of Santa Maria in Cosmedin and a visit to this cool attraction is also free. This sculpture probably dates back to the 1st century BC and was originally located in an ancient Roman temple. However, the name Bocca della Verità was first mentioned in 1485. This circular marble relief depicts a man’s face with his mouth wide open and is said to have been an ancient lie detector. According to legend, if you put your hand in the mouth of the truth and lie, it will be bitten off.

Bocca di Verita

Santa Maria Maggiore

The Santa Maria Maggiore is one of the four papal basilicas in Rome and one of the most important Marian churches in the Catholic world. This impressive basilica, also known as the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore or the Basilica of the Virgin Mary, was built on the Esquiline Hill in 432 and is known today for its magnificent architecture, impressive works of art and historical significance. The 14th century bell tower is also impressive, as it is the tallest in Rome. The mosaics inside, especially in the nave and on the triumphal arch, are said to date back to the original construction. An interesting museum is also worth visiting.

Santa Maria Maggiore

Circus Maximus

A historically significant landmark in Rome is the Circus Maximus. Once a famous venue in the Roman Empire, it was in use until the 6th century AD. With a total length of about 600 meters and a width of 140 meters, it could hold up to 250,000 viewers and was often used for large events, especially chariot races. During the Middle Ages, the Circus Maximus fell into complete disrepair and was only used as a quarry for the construction of churches and palaces. Although there is not much left of the ancient site today, the information panels make a tour worthwhile, especially for history buffs.

Tip: It is possible to visit the Circus Maximus from the outside, and it is free of charge. A walk around the grounds will give you a good idea of the size of the area.

Circus Maximus

Via Appia Antica

The Via Appia Antica is an insider tip in Rome and also a popular attraction for families with kids. At 2,300 years old, it is one of the oldest roads in the city and was the link to the smaller regions surrounding Rome. Originally built in 312 BC by Appius Claudius Caecus, this road was paved with large stones and led all the way to Brindisi by 191 BC. Along this historic cobbled road, you can explore various interesting points of interest, such as mausoleums, catacombs, temples and other remains of ancient Rome. In addition, the atmosphere is absolutely romantic, and history buffs will also enjoy the attractions along this historic street.

Tip: Bicycles or e-bikes, which can be rented on site, are the best way to explore the Via Appia. Also very popular are guided bike tours!

Via Appia

Rome: Excursions, Guided Walks, Tickets & More

If you don’t want to go on your own to see Rome’s most beautiful attractions, you can take a guided tour. GetYourGuide offers guided tours, tickets, biking tours, cooking classes and much more. To help you choose your favorite tour, there are also plenty of reviews. Don’t forget to compare the Rome City Pass too!

Where to Stay in Rome

There are many great places to stay in Rome. From backpacker hostels and bed and breakfasts to mid-range and luxury hotels, there’s something for everyone. If you’re not sure what kind of hotel you want to stay in, we’ve put together some Rome accommodation tips for you…It’s worth a look!

• Hotel with Roof Terrace: The Hotel Degli Artisti is conveniently located near to the city’s highlights, and you can enjoy the great atmosphere from the roof terrace.
• Cool Hostel: The RomeHello is centrally located, with a metro station right next door. In addition to the dormitories, there are also double rooms available.
• Affordable Guest House: The Relais 155 Guest House is a small and affordable guesthouse with friendly hosts, good breakfast and nice rooms.
• 5-Star Hotel: The Hotel Splendide Royal is a beautiful hotel close to the Villa Borghese and nearby  of the Spanish Steps and many of the city’s highlights.

As you can see, there are plenty of things to do in Rome. No matter if 1 day, 4 days in Rome, or even a week in Rome, this city is always worth a visit! Here are also some tips for Italy with kids. And check out this guide for Rome night activities.

Find the best accommodation in Rome:

 Booking.com

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