One of the oldest and most culturally rich cities in the world, there is not shortage of awesome things to do in Rome!
Rome’s history dates back more than 3,000 years and and the city has a wealth of ancient towns, historical monuments and churches that showcase the legends, myths and tales of the past.
Deciding what to do in such an activity-filled city can be quite overwhelming, so we’ve made a list of the top things to do in Rome; from the majestic Colosseum to the Vatican Museums and the Pantheon.
The Top 15 Things To Do in Rome
1. Colosseum
No trip to Italy is complete without visiting the Colosseum, since it is one of the top things to do in Rome! Also known as the Flavian Amphitheatre, it was built in the 70-80 A.D and once held about 80,000 spectators at a time.
It was mainly used as an entertainment venue by the Roman Emperors, with the most popular event at the time being gladiator tournaments. Here, gladiators were made to fight with each other, and even with lions and tigers for the entertainment of the royals. Its best to book your tickets in advance to avoid massive queues outside this popular attraction.
2. Arch of Constantine
Located right next to the Colosseum is the Arch of Constantine, which was named on behalf of the emperor Constantine to celebrate his victory at the Battle of Milvian Bridge.
Despite dating back to 315 A.D, it remains to be one of the most preserved buildings in Rome with fine architectural details still evident in its arches. These details include figures of soldiers, horses, and other ancient inscriptions. The total height of the structure is 21 meters, so it won’t be missed even at a distance!
3. St. Peter’s Basilica
St. Peter’s Basilica is considered to be the most popular religious building in Europe. While in St. Peter’s Square, you can see all of its beauty just by looking at the front façade, crowned with statues of the Apostles and Jesus.
However it’s not until you get inside that you get to truly appreciate the fine architectural contributions of both Bernini and Michelangelo.
4. The Pantheon
Another one of the top things to do in Rome is to visit the Pantheon. It is considered to be the most well-preserved building in the entire city and dates back to 118 A.D when it was first developed by the Roman Emperor, Hadrian.
One of the most notable features is its 43-meter dome, which displays the power of the Roman architecture as it is kept without visible supports through suspensions that are well-concealed from the view.
5. Roman Forum
Roman Forum is another important landmark in the city, as it showcases the political and religious side of the city all in one place.
In ruins today, it was once the centre point for markets, temples and conference venues for Roman officials.
Other highlights that you shouldn’t miss in the area are the Arch of Septimus Severus, the Temple of Saturn, the Temple of Vesta, and the Arch of Titus.
6. Trevi Fountain
Visiting the Trevi Fountain is one of the most popular things to do in Rome. Constructed in the 17th century by Nicola Salvi, the fountain is dedicated to the Roman God Oceanus.
You will be in awe of the beautifully decorated fountain as soon as you get there, with the blue-green-hued water and the finely crafted sculptures. Throw a coin into the water (there will no doubt be other tourists doing it too!).
7. Spanish Steps
Designed by the Italian architect, Francesco de Sancti in the 17th century, the Spanish Steps got their name purely because of their proximity to the Spanish Embassy.
There are only 130 steps here however the Piazza Trinita de Monti above and Piazza di Spagna below it makes an iconic location for those looking for some awesome photographic opportunities.
8. Sistine Chapel
The Sistine Chapel is located within the Vatican Museum Complex, and is one of the most visited chapels in Rome. You might have to book your tickets in advance to make for an easier experience, as queues tend to be quite long. Particularly on weekends.
The most notable attraction within the Sistine Chapel is its exquisite decorations, particularly Michelangelo’s fresco “The Last Judgement” and its ceiling works.
9. Vatican Museums
For art lovers, visiting the Vatican Museums is one of the best things to do in Rome! This is because the museums house over 100,000 artworks, with almost all of them having some sort of historical significance.
Package deals for both the museum and Sistine Chapel are available and dual visits are common. Make sure to check out each different section like the Museo Pio-Clementino, the Museo Gregoriano Etrusco, and the Museo Gregoriano Egiziano when you are here.
10. Piazza Navona
Located near the Pantheon, the Piazza Navona is an attraction that is not to be missed. Especially if you’re someone who enjoys different types of architectural styles.
It was built in the 15th century and was used as an entertainment venue that hosted Roman festivals and horse races. However, the Piazza Navona has since been redesigned according to the Baroque style by Borromini, which is still evident today.
The most notable attraction here is the Fontana Dei Fiumi which was designed by Bernini. It boasts sculptures representing the four rivers – Nile, Danube, Ganges, and Rio de la Plata which is also surrounded by flora and fauna that can be spotted in the regions.
11. Castle Saint Angelo
The Castle Saint Angelo was built in 135 A.D as a mausoleum for Emperor Hadrian. However, it has since been connected to St. Peter’s Basilica and brought under the administration of the Vatican. Today, it serves as a National Museum with five floors that exhibit historically important artefacts, and the papal residence – used by the pope in 590 A.D.
It is also a great place to enjoy a picturesque sunset, all you have to do is climb the steps to the top of the castle and soak in the city views.
12. Palatine Hill
Visiting the Palatine Hill is another one of the top things to do in Rome. The region proudly holds the oldest human settlements in the city, going as far as the 9th century B.C.
Make sure to check out the the House of Augustus (the first Caesar), House of Livia (his wife), and the Flavian Palace ruins while here. A recommendation would be to buy the dual ticket for the Roman Forum as well so that you can combine both the attractions together and enjoy the beautiful views at the Palatine Hill at the end of the day.
13. Vittorio Emanuele II Monument
Also known as the Altar of The Fatherland, this monument is dedicated to the first king who unified Italy – King Vittorio Emanuele II.
It is also one of Italy’s national symbols in Italy. However it isn’t a popular place among the locals as general sentiment is that it the shrine is too big and grandiose.
This is because the Vittorio Emanuele II Monument is constructed entirely out of white marble and stands out across the entire city.
A more historic reason for this dislike among the locals is that the construction wiped out a large part of Capitoline Hill.
14. Villa Galleria Borghese and Gardens
Visiting the Villa Galleria Borghese and Gardens is another top thing to do in Rome. As the name suggests, it comes from one of the most popular families in the city, the Borghese. Today, you can enjoy a stroll through the 200-acres gardens, which also houses the Borghese Gallery. Here you’ll find artworks of Caravaggio, Raphael, and Bernini among other important historical exhibits.
The garden is home to different types of flora, and varyingly styled architectural buildings such as the 16th century Villa Giulia and Etruscan Museum.
15. Basilica Santa Maria Maggiore
Basilica Santa Maria Maggiore is one of the biggest churches in Rome, and it dates back to the 4th century B.C.
However, it was again renovated in the 18th century which is evident in the impressive blend of Baroque and Catholic architectural styles within the church.
This is another of Rome’s attractions that offers free admission, and no time limits. It has many golden decorations; the frescoes are incredibly fine in detail and the surrounding buildings, like the bell tower, are equally exquisite.
