The Best Things to Do in Rome, Italy
Updated: December 2025
We spent Holy Week in Rome, Italy, recently. This is our list of the best things to do in Rome, where to eat amazing vegan food in Rome, what attractions are worth a visit, and where to stay in Rome. Are you planning a visit to Rome? If so, this is an awesome guide for your visit to Rome!
A Wonderful Trip to Rome
Rome, the eternal city and the capital of Italy, is a treasure trove of history, culture, and art that spans centuries. Whether you’re exploring the grandeur of the Vatican Museums or the archaeological wonders of Ancient Rome, there’s no shortage of incredible experiences to be had. For first-time visitors, the historic center is a great place to start, offering iconic sights like Piazza San Pietro and Basilica di San Pietro, one of the largest churches in the world. A guided tour of the Roman Forum & Palatine Hill provides the best way to uncover the remnants of ancient times, while a stroll along Via dei Fori Imperiali reveals layers of Roman history. For those with limited time, early morning visits to key attractions help avoid long lines, ensuring you make the most of your stay in the Italian capital.
Beyond the ancient ruins, Rome offers a blend of Renaissance and Baroque splendor. The Fontana dei Quattro Fiumi in Piazza Navona and the Piazza di Spagna, with its iconic Spanish Steps, are perfect places to soak in the city’s 17th and 18th-century charm. Art enthusiasts will find a personal favorite in the Galleria Borghese, housing works by Caravaggio and Bernini, while the Musei Capitolini on Capitoline Hill offer a deep dive into Roman times. Nature lovers can escape to the Villa Borghese Gardens, complete with a small lake ideal for a leisurely afternoon. As the sun sets, unwind at a rooftop bar overlooking the Tiber River or the “Wedding Cake,” the striking national monument to Victor Emmanuel II. Whether it’s your first visit or your fifth, Rome’s rich history and vibrant atmosphere make every trip unforgettable.
Short History of Rome
Rome’s history spans over 2,700 years, beginning in 753 BCE when, according to legend, Romulus founded the city on the Palatine Hill. From its early days as a small kingdom, Rome evolved into the heart of the vast Roman Empire, shaping ancient times with its innovations in law, governance, and architecture. Following the empire’s fall in 476 CE, Rome became a center of power for the Catholic Church during the Middle Ages, marked by the construction of grand basilicas like St. Peter’s. The city flourished again during the Renaissance and Baroque periods, when popes such as Julius II commissioned masterpieces like the Sistine Chapel. Today, Rome’s rich history is preserved in its archaeological sites, monumental ruins, and artistic treasures, making it a living testament to its glorious past.
How to Get to Rome
Rome is well-connected to major cities across the globe, making it easy to reach.
- By Air: Rome has two main airports: Fiumicino (Leonardo da Vinci Airport) and Ciampino Airport. Fiumicino is the larger hub, serving international and domestic flights, while Ciampino primarily handles budget airlines. Both airports are linked to the city center by buses, taxis, and trains. The Leonardo Express train is the fastest way to travel from Fiumicino to Termini Station in central Rome.
- Via Train: High-speed trains like the Frecciarossa and Italo connect Rome to other Italian cities such as Florence, Milan, and Naples. Trains arrive at Roma Termini, the city’s main railway station.
- By Car: Rome is accessible via Italy’s motorway network, but driving in the city is not recommended due to traffic and restricted zones (ZTL).
- Via Bus: Long-distance buses connect Rome with other European cities and Italian regions, with most arriving at Tiburtina or Anagnina stations.
How to Get Around Rome
Rome’s compact historic center makes walking one of the best ways to explore, but the city also offers efficient public transport options.
- Metro: The metro system has three lines (A, B, and C) connecting key attractions like the Vatican Museums, Colosseum, and Termini Station. It’s a fast and affordable way to get around.
- Buses and Trams: The city’s extensive bus and tram network reaches areas not covered by the metro, such as the Villa Borghese Gardens and Trastevere. Tickets can be purchased at metro stations or tobacco shops.
- Taxis and Ride-Sharing: Official taxis are white with a “TAXI” sign. Uber is available but less common; it mostly operates as a premium service.
- Walking: Many of Rome’s top attractions, like Piazza Navona, the Trevi Fountain, and the Pantheon, are within walking distance of each other.
- Biking and E-Scooters: Bike and e-scooter rentals are popular for short distances, especially along the Tiber River and in parks.
- Guided Tours and Hop-On-Hop-Off Buses: For convenience and rich history insights, guided tours or hop-on-hop-off buses are excellent options to cover multiple attractions efficiently.
- ZTL (Restricted Traffic Zone): If driving, beware of the ZTL areas in the historic center, where only authorized vehicles are allowed. Public transport or walking is preferable in these zones.
for vegan foodies
If you’re vegan, then I’m sure you can relate to the sentiment of #willtravelforveganfood. Rome has some amazing vegan food, which I intensely researched on where to eat in Rome before our visit. Below is our list of places that we either ate at or were hoping to eat at. And below that is our list of the best things to do in Rome, Italy.
Where to Eat in Rome, Italy
Rifugio Romano *** (vegan Carbonara) (near Termini train), Via Volturno, 39/41 The food here was spectacular! We highly recommend this restaurant. It’s super popular so make sure you make reservations online ahead of time! We ordered the vegan carbonara, cannellonis, ravioli, pizza, calzone and the varied appetizer. Everything was scrumptious!
Gelato Artigianale (near Torre Argentina, delicious chocolate sorbet), Largo Arenula 27 – We stopped here after our visit to the cat sanctuary across the street. The chocolate and fruit-flavored sorbets are scrumptious.
Origano Campo de Fiori (near Pantheon), Largo dei Chiavari, 84 – they have a decent vegan menu here and the choices are delicious. Be aware that they charge a service fee of 1,50 € per person though.
Col Cavolo Restaurant, Via Cesare Bosi, 7 – this restaurant is adorable and has lovely daily menu specials. I had the gallette special and the others had the lasagna. It was delectable.
Veg Joy, Via Vasto 4 – this was our last meal in Rome. The cannelloni appetizer was spectacular and the Wellington was delightful. We greatly enjoyed this restaurant and exploring the area afterwards. The neighborhood felt very different from the rest of Rome – it felt more like Lisbon.
vegan places we didn’t make it to, but are highly recommended
Buddy Veggy Restaurant (truffle pizza) (near Pantheon), Corso Vittorio Emanuele II, 107A – we didn’t make it to this restaurant, but it comes highly recommended on Happy Cow and the Facebook Vegan Travel page. Next time, we will definitely eat here!
Il Margutta, Via Margutta, 118 We didn’t make it to this restaurant, but it comes highly recommended on Happy Cow and the Facebook Vegan Travel page. We walked by the restaurant late at night though and the ambience and decor were dazzling.
Ops! (pay by the weight of the food), Via Bergamo, 56 We didn’t make it to this restaurant, but it comes highly recommended on Happy Cow and the Facebook Vegan Travel page.
La Licata – vegan breakfast Via dei Serpenti, 165 We didn’t make it to this restaurant, but it comes highly recommended on Happy Cow and the Facebook Vegan Travel page.
Wani Vegan Bakery, Via Gabriello Chiabrera, 162b We didn’t make it to this restaurant, but it comes highly recommended on Happy Cow and the Facebook Vegan Travel page.
Ma Va’ Restaurante Roma, Via Euclide Turba, 6/8 We didn’t make it to this restaurant, but it comes highly recommended on Happy Cow and the Facebook Vegan Travel page.
Mondo Arancina Via Marcantonio Colonna, 38 We didn’t make it to this restaurant, but it comes highly recommended on Happy Cow and the Facebook Vegan Travel page.
Romeow Cat Bistrot Via Francesco Negri, 15 We didn’t make it to this restaurant, but it comes highly recommended on Happy Cow and the Facebook Vegan Travel page.
Vegan Stores in Rome, Italy
Vegustibus – (near Garbatella metro), Via Giovanni Andrea Badoero, 72 – we LOVE this place! After happening upon it on our walk to the Garbatella metro from our rental, we couldn’t stop going. The desserts are heavenly and the pre-made sandwiches are delectable. And the prices are amazing – super affordable. We tried almost everything they had and everything was tasty. 
Testaccio Market– The Vegan Store (stall 83) Via Aldo Manuzio, 66b We didn’t make it to this shop, but it comes highly recommended on Happy Cow and the Facebook Vegan Travel page.
iVegan (near Vatican City), Via Angelo Emo, 125 We didn’t make it to this shop, but it comes highly recommended on Happy Cow and the Facebook Vegan Travel page.
Radagast Vegan Bakery (far away), Via Teano, 309 – sadly, we didn’t make it here, but it’s definitely on our list for the next visit!
What to Do in Rome, Italy (top tourist attractions)
The Colosseum, The Roman Forum and Palatine Hill Make sure you get entrance tickets ahead of time or chances are, you won’t be able to get tickets. We waited until the day before we wanted to go and there were no tickets available. So, we had to go on a different day than originally planned. I would highly recommend that you get tickets before your trip starts!
The Colosseum, Palatine Hill, and Roman Forum form the heart of Ancient Rome and are must-see landmarks for history enthusiasts. The Colosseum, an iconic amphitheater, once hosted gladiatorial games, naval battles, and wild animal hunts, showcasing the grandeur of Roman engineering. Nearby, Palatine Hill, the legendary birthplace of Rome, offers stunning ruins of imperial palaces and the best views of the city. The Roman Forum, a bustling hub of Roman political, religious, and social life, is an archaeological site filled with ancient temples, basilicas, and triumphal arches that tell the story of the empire’s power and legacy. Together, these sites offer an unforgettable journey through Roman history.
The Pantheon Get there early to avoid the crowds or after 4:30 p.m. when the tour groups are gone. It’s free entry, but if they are expecting huge crowds, you have to reserve your spot online. Or you can get the ticket below for fast-track advantage!
really crowded area of rome
Trevi Fountain (near Pantheon) – this place is always packed, day, night, middle of the night! It’s lovely to see early in the morning and late at night with the lights. But, be prepared for large crowds. This is the most famous fountain in the world!
Spanish Steps (near Pantheon and Trevi) – The Spanish steps are named for the nearby Spanish Embassy. This spot is always busy with tourists. Try to get there during mealtimes or in the evening.
Piazza Navona (near Forum) – this plaza is gorgeous and less crowded than the Trevi Fountain. Piazza Navona is built on the site of the Stadium of Domitian, built in the 1st century AD, and follows the form of the open space of the stadium. The ancient Romans went there to watch the agones, and hence it was known as “Circus Agonalis”
lovely area of rome to visit
Via Margutta (Passeggiata – stroll) – lovely side street to see people strolling at 6:00 p.m.
Castel St Angelo – really cool to walk by it and enjoy the architecture. It’s pretty creepy knowing that it was the Emperor’s Mausoleum! You can visit inside – here’s an awesome entry fee + tour.
Ponte Sant’Angelo – originally the Aelian Bridge or Pons Aelius, is a Roman bridge in Rome, Italy, completed in 134 AD by Roman Emperor Hadrian, to span the Tiber from the city center to his newly constructed mausoleum, now the towering Castel Sant’Angelo.
Palazzo Venezia – this huge palace is stunning. And the views afforded near the top are breathtaking. It’s free to explore the palace, but the nearby museum has an entry fee.
vegan-friendly activity
Rome Cat Sanctuary near Torre Argentina – this wasn’t easy to find especially since they were doing rehabilitation work on the ruins, but we persevered and spent a glorious 10 minutes with the cats at the sanctuary. This was one of our favorite activities while in Rome and we highly recommend it.
Isola Tiberina (near Roman Forum) – the Ponte Fabricio is the starting point for Rick Steves’ audio guide to the Jewish Ghetto and Trastevere neighborhood. This island in the middle of the river is intriguing.
Trastevere – I did the audio guide walk app by Rick Steves. This neighborhood is quaint, endearing and colorful. We really enjoyed this area and if we come back to Rome, we will plan on staying in this area. This guided walking tour with drinks would be amazing!
my favorite place to go in rome
Gianicolo Hill (passing through Trastevere) *** We absolutely loved this area! This was my favorite part of the entire trip to Rome. After walking through the charming Trastevere neighborhood, we made our way to the staircases that lead to Gianicolo Hill. Once we made it to the hill, we weaved our way through all the different lookouts and interesting monuments until we eventually made it to the Terrazza with a 360-degree view of Rome. It was awe-inspiring. Next time, we will pack a picnic and spend all day on this hill!
other must visits in rome, italy
Sistine Chapel, Vatican garden and museums – we weren’t able to get tickets to the Sistine Chapel as it was incredibly busy for Holy Week. This is a must-visit chapel that houses the Pope and includes stunning Michelangelo frescoes. My mom and I went to Rome more recently and went did the tour below. It was fantastic!
St Peter’s Basilica – it is said that this is the greatest church in the entire world. The Renaissance-style façade is impressive and the plaza outside is gigantic. Make sure to check out St. Peter’s Square too.
Mercato di Testaccio (M-Sa 7-3) Glass-roofed market on a Roman archeological site with 100+ gourmet and fresh food stalls. There are colorful murals on the walls nearby.
beautiful parks in rome
Gardens of Villa Borghese – walking to the gardens from the Termini metro station afforded a look into how the wealthy live in Rome. The neighborhood surrounding Villa Borghese is lavish and elegant. We also happened upon the US Embassy. Once we arrived to Villa Borghese, we were transported to the past and the way life was lived. The gardens are elegant and there are plenty of fun activities for the entire family, from renting a rowboat on the pond, a bike, a family bike or golf carts to get around the garden, it’s an awesome place to spend the day. This bike tour would be incredibly fun!
Appia Antica Park (farther away) – This is one of the oldest roads in Rome and was an important access road into the city. We were staying near this park so we spent some time exploring it. You can rent bicycles nearby or do a bike tour. There are numerous catacombs and Aurelian walls in this park that would be interesting to visit.
Pyramid of Caias Cestius – The Pyramid of Cestius is a Roman Era pyramid in Rome, Italy, near the Porta San Paolo and the Protestant Cemetery. It was built as a tomb for Gaius Cestius, a member of the Epulones religious corporation.
We also took an amazing day trip to Pompeii! We rented a car, but you can always take the train there. If you have extra time, we highly recommend a visit to Pompeii. It was simply astonishing to see it in person!
Where to stay in Rome, italy
- General Rome Listing of places to stay
- Beautiful loft in Trastevere
- Lovely apartment with great location
- Right in the middle of Rome with amazing view
- Spacious apartment close to everything
- Splurge-worthy right next to The Pantheon
Super fun paid activities and tours in Rome
Best of Rome Pass + public transportation
3-hour Rome Walking Tour at Night
free things to do in rome, italy
Trevi Fountain (near Pantheon)
The Trevi Fountain, one of Rome’s most iconic landmarks, is a stunning Baroque masterpiece where tourists toss coins to ensure a return to the Eternal City. Adorned with intricate sculptures, including Oceanus at its center, it exudes grandeur and charm, especially at night when illuminated.
Spanish Steps (near Pantheon and Trevi)
The Spanish Steps are a lively and elegant staircase of 135 steps leading up to Trinità dei Monti church. A favorite spot for visitors and locals alike, it offers excellent views and a romantic atmosphere, especially during spring when adorned with blooming azaleas.
Jewish Ghetto (Rione Sant’Angelo)
The Jewish Ghetto, one of Rome’s oldest neighborhoods, is steeped in history and rich with culture. Known for its quaint streets, Kosher restaurants, and the stunning Great Synagogue, it tells a poignant story of resilience and tradition.
Free Walking Tours
Rome’s free walking tours are an excellent way to explore its history and culture. Guided by knowledgeable locals, these tours often cover key landmarks like the Pantheon, Piazza Navona, and hidden gems, offering insights into the city’s vibrant past.
Campo de’ Fiori
Campo de’ Fiori is a lively square by day, hosting a bustling market with fresh produce and artisanal goods, and by night, transforming into a social hub with outdoor cafes and bars, making it a versatile destination in the heart of Rome.
Tempietto del Bramante (near Gianicolo)
Tucked away on Janiculum Hill, the Tempietto del Bramante is a Renaissance gem. This small yet perfect temple, designed by Donato Bramante, marks the traditional site of Saint Peter’s crucifixion and epitomizes harmonious architecture.
Arco degli Acetari
Hidden in a picturesque courtyard near Campo de’ Fiori, the Arco degli Acetari is a charming medieval passageway. Its colorful facades and ivy-draped walls make it a photographer’s dream and a peaceful escape from the bustling streets.
Piazza del Campidoglio (near Forum)
Designed by Michelangelo, Piazza del Campidoglio is a masterpiece of Renaissance urban planning. Overlooking the Roman Forum, this elegant square is home to the Capitoline Museums and features a statue of Marcus Aurelius at its center.
Via del Corso (6 pm stroll)
A stroll along Via del Corso at sunset is quintessentially Roman. This bustling street, lined with shops and cafes, stretches from Piazza Venezia to Piazza del Popolo, offering a blend of modernity and tradition in the heart of Rome.
Chiesa di San Luigi dei Francesi (Caravaggio’s earliest works)
This Baroque church near Piazza Navona houses three breathtaking Caravaggio masterpieces in the Contarelli Chapel. Depicting scenes from the life of Saint Matthew, these paintings showcase the artist’s dramatic use of light and shadow.
Quartiere Coppedè
Quartiere Coppedè is a whimsical neighborhood blending Art Nouveau, Gothic, and Baroque styles. Its surreal architecture, including the “Fountain of the Frogs,” creates an enchanting, fairytale-like atmosphere unlike any other in Rome.
Garbatella Neighborhood
Garbatella is a charming working-class neighborhood with vibrant street art, quaint piazzas, and a village-like feel. Known for its unique architectural style and community spirit, it offers a glimpse of authentic Roman life.
Stadio dei Marmi
The Stadio dei Marmi is a striking athletic stadium surrounded by statues of athletes, blending sports with art. Located in the Foro Italico complex, it’s an impressive example of Fascist-era architecture and a tribute to athletic excellence.
Savello Park
Savello Park, also known as the Orange Garden, is a serene oasis offering panoramic views of Rome. Located on Aventine Hill, it’s famous for its tranquil atmosphere, fragrant orange trees, and stunning sunsets.
Cat Sanctuary at Torre Argentina
The cat sanctuary at Largo di Torre Argentina is a unique blend of ancient history and feline charm. Among the ruins of four Republican-era temples, rescued cats roam freely, cared for by volunteers, adding a whimsical touch to the historic site.
churches of rome to visit
Santa Maria del Popolo (Caravaggio Artwork)
Santa Maria del Popolo, located in Piazza del Popolo, is renowned for its exquisite Renaissance and Baroque art. The Cerasi Chapel houses two dramatic Caravaggio masterpieces, The Conversion of Saint Paul and The Crucifixion of Saint Peter, showcasing the artist’s signature chiaroscuro technique.
Chiesa di Santa Maria della Vittoria
This Baroque gem is famed for Gian Lorenzo Bernini’s sculpture, The Ecstasy of Saint Teresa, in the Cornaro Chapel. The church’s ornate interior, with gilded details and stunning frescoes, makes it a small yet captivating masterpiece.
Santa Maria Maggiore
One of Rome’s four major basilicas, Santa Maria Maggiore boasts a magnificent blend of early Christian and Baroque art. Its highlights include golden mosaics, an opulent coffered ceiling, and the Holy Crib relic, making it a spiritual and artistic treasure.
Santa Prassede
A short walk from Santa Maria Maggiore, Santa Prassede is a Byzantine marvel. Its glittering mosaics, especially in the Chapel of Saint Zeno, depict heavenly scenes in intricate detail, offering a serene and awe-inspiring experience.
San Carlino Church (San Carlo alle Quattro Fontane)
Designed by Francesco Borromini, San Carlino is a Baroque architectural masterpiece. Despite its small size, the church features a dynamic, undulating façade and an oval dome that exemplify Borromini’s innovative genius.
Our personal thoughts/opinions on Rome:
Rome is a really cool, ancient city. It has awesome ruins and mind-boggling things to see. With that being said, I didn’t love Rome as much as I thought I would. Words of wisdom: don’t go to Rome during Holy Week for your first visit .. or maybe ever (go during Holy Week). The crowds were INSANE! And super annoying. Everybody seemed a bit stressed out, including the locals. The energy and vibe were chaotic. The drivers are really scary – both times when we were in the taxis to and from the airport, we thought we were going to die. Maybe I’m being a bit dramatic, but the drivers are seriously alarming.
when to visit rome
Being the eternal optimist that I am, I would definitely consider going back to Rome, maybe during the off-season. Is there an off-season? Our favorite part of Rome, besides Vegustibus, was walking around the Roman Forum and thinking about what life was like back then. We were super grateful that our rental was pretty far from the main tourist areas and we were able to escape the crowds after we were done sightseeing.
Best Time to Visit Rome
The best time to visit Rome is during the spring (April to June) and fall (September to October). During these months, the weather is mild, with temperatures ranging between 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F), making it ideal for exploring the city’s iconic landmarks and charming streets.
Spring brings blooming flowers, vibrant outdoor markets, and fewer crowds compared to the summer peak. Fall offers pleasant weather, a golden light that enhances Rome’s timeless beauty, and a chance to enjoy seasonal delicacies like truffles and chestnuts.
If you prefer quieter times, visiting in winter (November to February), except around Christmas and New Year, can be delightful. While it’s cooler, the city is less crowded, and attractions are more accessible. Avoid August if possible, as it’s hot, humid, and many locals leave for their holidays, leading to some closures.
Final Thoughts on Rome
Visiting Rome is like stepping into a living museum, where every corner tells a story from ancient times to the 19th century. Whether it’s your first time or your last visit, the city offers a perfect mix of history, culture, and charm. Explore the best places like the Colosseum, where the arena floor once hosted wild animals and naval battles, or visit the Domus Aurea, Emperor Nero’s opulent palace. Take in the beauty of the Ara Pacis, a masterpiece celebrating Emperor Augustus, and enjoy the timeless elegance of St. Peter’s Square.
Art lovers can’t miss the Galleria Borghese, home to works collected by Cardinal Scipione Borghese, or the Vatican Museums, showcasing treasures commissioned by Pope Julius II. Don’t forget a food tour to savor local flavors or a walk through Piazza Navona, where street performers and the Fontana del Moro create a lively atmosphere. From the archaeological sites of the Roman Forum to the 16th and 17th-century splendor of the city’s churches, and the 18th-century views from the Spanish Steps, Rome is a feast for the senses. End your day with one of the best views from a rooftop bar or dive into history with a virtual reality headset tour—it’s a city where every visit feels like the first.
Have you been to Rome? What are your thoughts?
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THE 5 ITEMS WE WERE SO HAPPY TO HAVE FOR ALL OF OUR TRIPS:
- Merrell women’s light hiking shoes – these are amazing because they are lightweight, but are extra grippy and helpful! I also have this pair that I always get compliments on: Merrell Rainbow shoes. Fernando loves his Asics trail runners which are also grippy and perfect for walking on cobblestone streets.
- Thermoflask water bottle – like a Hydroflask, but more affordable! We don’t go anywhere without these water bottles full of purified water.
- North Face Aphrodite 2.0 capris – Seriously, I wear these pants every.single.day! I couldn’t live without these ultra-comfy, lightweight pants that dry so quickly. They are 100% worth the money!
- Osprey Day Pack – this is an awesome lightweight backpack! We easily put the belongings we need at hand for traveling around the city and on public transportation.
- Travel-friendly chewable toothpaste tablets – these are so fantastic for keeping your teeth clean on the go!
OUR FAVORITE EUROPEAN SERVICES:
- DISCOVER CARS – If you want to rent a car while you’re in Europe, our favorite car rental aggregator is Discover Cars. We frequently rent cars and they always have the best prices and great quality vehicles.
- iTalki – if you want to learn another language before traveling to Europe or while you’re there, we love iTalki. We highly recommend their language services.
- NORD VPN – perfect to use your technology in other countries!
- Airalo E-Sim – this let’s you use your phone anywhere in the world without having to get a physical sim! We use this all the time when we travel outside Europe!
- Big Bus Tours – the perfect way to see the city when you first arrive!
- Get Transfer – transfers between all of the airports and cities
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