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If you’re planning your first trip to the Eternal City and wondering what to do in Rome, you’ve come to the right place. Rome, Italy, is a city that dazzles with rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant culture. From exploring ancient ruins to indulging in authentic Italian cuisine, Rome offers an endless array of unforgettable experiences. This guide highlights 15 must-see attractions and activities that you simply can’t miss on your first visit. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a foodie, or an adventurer, these top recommendations will ensure you make the most of your time in this magnificent city. Get ready to discover the best of Rome and create memories that will last a lifetime!
Table of Contents
Visit the Iconic Colosseum
When planning what to do in Rome, visiting the Colosseum should be at the top of your list. This iconic ancient amphitheater, built in AD 70-80, is a testament to Rome’s architectural ingenuity and historical significance. Originally known as the Flavian Amphitheatre, it was the site of epic gladiatorial combats, animal hunts, and grand public spectacles that entertained and captivated the Roman people.
Book Your Colosseum Tickets Here!
As you explore the Colosseum’s towering arches and labyrinthine underground passages, you’ll gain insight into the lives of gladiators and the grandeur of ancient Rome. A guided tour offers a deeper understanding of its history and cultural impact, so I highly recommend it!
When booking tickets for the Colosseum, there are many options for non-guided tours, guided tours, or some tickets with limited access to certain floors. Getting tickets for the Colosseum was much harder than I anticipated. On their direct website, the tickets are quickly purchased by bots who resell them on third party sites. I found this extremely frustrating, and paid more than I anticipated to ensure I got tickets to the underground portion. However, it was worth every penny after stepping foot where the gladiators and animals would get ready to meet their fate in the arena.
The underground area of the Colosseum wasn’t open for public tours until 2021, so these tickets are highly sought after. Be sure to book well in advance! We ended up getting these tickets to combine our guided tour of the colosseum to also include the Roman Forum. Our guide taught us so much, was super engaging, and the entire experience was exceptional. I highly recommend this tour!
Walk in the Footsteps of the Ancient Romans by visiting the Roman Forum & Palatine Hill
When deciding what to do in Rome, exploring the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill is essential for a deep dive into the city’s incredible history. The Roman Forum, once the bustling heart of ancient Rome, was the epicenter of political, commercial, and social activities. Here, you can wander among the ruins of temples, basilicas, and public spaces that once hosted legendary events and speeches. Adjacent to the Forum, Palatine Hill offers a glimpse into the origins of Rome, where Romulus is said to have founded the city in 753 BC. This hill was also the site of luxurious palaces and gardens of Roman emperors.
Book your Colosseum and Roman Forum Guided Tour Here!
There are so many incredible things to see while exploring the Roman Forum. However, due to its grandeur it can be easy to miss important highlights due to lack of signage. A guided tour will help you see the top sites like the location Julius Caesar was cremated and buried, while giving you background on the significance to the Roman empire.
If you prefer to explore on your own without a guide, make sure to research the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill before so you don’t miss any important details! Visiting the Roman Forum is an epic experience, allowing you to walk in the footsteps of ancient Romans. It is an absolute must!
Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel
One of the top things to do in Rome is visiting the Vatican Museums and the Sistine Chapel. In fact, over a million people visit the Vatican Museums each year, and it’s easy to see why! Filled with some of the most famous works of art in our history, visiting the Vatican Museums can be very overwhelming. It’s always packed with people, hot and stuffy, and there’s an incredible amount of things to see.
I was blown away by the detail covering the floors, walls, and ceiling of the entire museum. Everywhere you look, there are intricately painted details or carvings. Overall, it’s an awe-inspiring experience to visit the Vatican Museums, taking you through centuries of art and history, showcasing masterpieces from renowned artists like Raphael and Caravaggio. The highlight is, of course, the iconic Sistine Chapel, where you can marvel at Michelangelo’s breathtaking frescoes, including the iconic “Creation of Adam.” For many, just seeing this work of art in person is a spiritual and emotional experience.
Book Skip-The-Link Tickets to the Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel here.
To make the most of your visit, consider booking a guided tour or purchasing skip-the-line tickets to avoid long waits. I was so glad I booked a tour so our guide could help get us through the stuffy corridors while teaching us about the major highlights. Also, being able to skip the line at such a popular tourist destination was a game changer! However, consider booking earlier in the morning to ensure you’ll have enough time to see all rooms. My tour guide skipped the Raphael Rooms due to lack of time in the afternoon, and I was majorly disappointed.
If you can, combine your tickets to also include St.Peter’s Basilica. The line for visiting the basilica can take hours to get through each day. By taking this tour, you ensure you’ll see the Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel, and St. Peter’s Basilica without having to wait in long lines!
Exploring the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel is both a cultural and spiritual experience that every first-time visitor to Rome should not miss. While standing inside the Sistine Chapel, looking up at Michelangelo’s most famous artwork, you’ll truly have an experience you’ll remember for the rest of your life.
St. Peter’s Basilica
When considering what to do in Rome, a visit to St. Peter’s Basilica is an absolute must. This iconic Renaissance church, located in Vatican City, is one of the largest and most famous churches in the world, and where the Pope resides. With over 10 million visitors each year, it’s considered the spiritual heart of Christianity.
Purchase skip-the-line tickets to St.Peter’s Basilica here!
Even if you aren’t religious, you’ll be awestruck by St. Peter’s Basilica. When you step inside, you’ll see it’s grandiose architecture, intricate mosaics, and stunning artworks, including Michelangelo’s famous Pietà. You can even climb to the top of the dome for breathtaking panoramic views of Rome, or descend into the grottoes to explore the tombs of past Popes. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, art lover, or a spiritual seeker, St. Peter’s Basilica offers a profound experience that should not be missed on your first trip to Rome.
Because it’s such a popular attraction, the line for visiting St. Peter’s Basilica can be hours long. Be sure to pre-book skip the line tickets so you don’t waste your time waiting in line!
Pantheon
No trip to Rome is complete without seeing one of the best preserved Ancient Roman buildings of all time, the Pantheon. The current building was ordered by the Emperor Hadrian and has been used as a church to honor St. Mary since the 7th century.
The most impressive part of the Pantheon is the round coffered dome with oculus that opens to the sky. Today, two thousand years after it was built, the Pantheon’s impressive dome is still the world’s largest unreinforced concrete dome.
Walking up to the Pantheon for the first time, you’ll be in awe. This iconic building is something you’ve seen photos of for years. But, you’ll never understand it’s grandeur until you’re standing right in front of it. The structure is absolutely massive, which made me even more impressed with what the ancient romans could accomplish. Inside you’ll find chapels dedicated to important saints along with the tomb of artist Raphael, and other important Italian Kings.
In the past, it was always free to visit the Pantheon. However, since July of 2023, payment is required every day except for the first Sunday of every month. You can either wait in line to get your tickets, or pre-book online. I highly recommend going early in the morning and pre-booking with a timed entry. Booking directly on their website, you can purchase a ticket with an audio guide or even a tour with a knowledgeable guide. Be sure to check their website for any updates including visiting hours and closure dates.
If you are looking for a skip-the-line entry ticket, book your ticket for the cheapest price here!
Be sure to come back at night to see the Pantheon lit up! As beautiful as it is during the day, the way the warm lights beam across the facade at dusk is gorgeous. Plus, the plaza comes alive at night with street vendors and bustling restaurants.
Tip for visiting: Be sure to have something like a lightweight shirt or shawl to cover your shoulders. Women cannot enter the Pantheon if their shoulders are exposed.
Take a Stroll Around Piazza Novona
Piazza Novona is one of Rome’s most vibrant squares. Built in 86 CE by emperor Domitian, the square’s unique elongated shape is due to it’s original function as a stadium for athletic events. Today, in Piazza Novona, you’ll find three fountains with large marble sculptures and a giant 36 meter tall Egyptian Obelisk.
Piazza Novona is definitely worth taking a leisurely stroll through. Be sure to visit at some point during your first trip to Rome.
Visit Trastevere
Trastevere is a neighborhood many consider to be the “Heart Of Rome.” In this bohemian style neighborhood, you’ll find vibrant buildings with winding streets. I absolutely loved walking around Trastevere. Every turn there’s something beautiful to see, or a wonderful smell in the air. It feels like a very authentic part of the city that’s much less crowded with tourists. Be sure to visit this area of Rome if you’re looking for incredible restaurants, quaint wine bars, and fun artisan shops. At night this part of the city comes alive when the restaurants start serving aperitivo.
Explore Trastevere through the authentic Italian cuisine- Book this Trastevere food tour!
Galleria Borghese
When deciding what to do in Rome, a visit to Galleria Borghese should be high on your list. This renowned museum houses an extraordinary collection of art, featuring masterpieces by Caravaggio, Bernini, Raphael, and Titian. Unlike the Vatican Museums, the Galleria Borghese offers an intimate experience, allowing you to admire stunning sculptures, intricate frescoes, and exquisite paintings up close.
Be sure to book your tickets in advance, as entry is limited to ensure a pleasant viewing experience. Whether you’re an art aficionado or simply appreciate beauty, Galleria Borghese is an essential stop on your Roman itinerary.
Eat Authentic Carbonara
When figuring out what to do in Rome, you have to try one of my favorite dishes, authentic Roman carbonara! This delicious pasta is made with eggs, pecorino cheese, guanciale, and black pepper—no cream, just pure Italian goodness! Prior to my trip to Rome, I was dreaming of the taste of authentic carbonara, and it did not disappoint!
After lots of research and talking to locals, here are some of the top recommended restaurants in Rome to get carbonara:
- Trattoria Da Teo
- Tonnarello
- Da Enzo al 29
- Osteria da Fortunata
- Checco er Carrettiere
- Grapplolo D’ Oro
- Matricianella
- Roscioli Salumeria Con Cucina
*Be sure to check all restaurants websites prior to your visit for opening times, and to make a reservation. To visit many of the top restaurants in Rome, you’ll need a reservation well in advance.
Although you can try carbonara anywhere throughout Italy, enjoying this classic dish in the city where it was born is a must-do experience for any first-time visitor. Nobody does carbonara quite like the Romans!
Capitoline Museum
Perched atop Capitoline Hill, the Capitoline Museum is home to a remarkable collection of art and artifacts that span Rome’s extensive history. The museums’ highlights include the iconic bronze statue of the she-wolf nursing Romulus and Remus, and the stunning equestrian statue of Emperor Marcus Aurelius. As you explore the museums, you’ll encounter ancient sculptures, Renaissance paintings, and intricate mosaics that offer a captivating glimpse into Rome’s artistic and cultural legacy.
If you are an art lover, consider taking this guided tour to learn in-depth about the artwork from a historical guide!
In all honesty, if you have to drop one thing on this list, I would consider the Capitoline Museum. However, if you still have time to walk around outside the museum, you can see a copy of the iconic statue of Emperor Marcus Aurelius and incredible panoramic views of the Roman Forum and the city skyline, making it a fun stop for history buffs and art lovers alike.
Throw a Coin in the Trevi Fountain
It’s time for your Lizzie McGuire moment! (If you know, you know.) The Trevi Fountain may be one of Rome’s most iconic sites. Built in the 18th century, it is the largest Baroque fountain in the city and one of the most famous fountains in the world!
Prior to going to the Trevi Fountain, I knew it would be large. But I was astounded at just how massive it really was! Standing 86 feet high and 161.3 feet wide, it’s more than just a fountain, it’s the size of an entire building with incredible sculptures covering it in entirety. I thought I may see it as an overrated site, but I highly recommend seeing the Trevi Fountain! It’s absolutely stunning.
Don’t forget to take part in a tradition thats been around for decades: throwing a coin into the fountain before leaving the eternal city! This superstition associated with the fountain says whoever makes this gesture would favor a future return to the city. According to the tradition, coins should be thrown with one’s back to the fountain, using the right hand over the left shoulder.
Visiting Tip: Unless you wake up at 4 am, the Trevi Fountain will always be packed. It’s inevitable. Be patient and try to find a good spot to see the details up close, get some good photos, and throw your coin in!
Piazza Di Spagna (Spanish Steps)
Don’t miss the chance to visit the Spanish Steps. This famous staircase, consisting of 135 steps, connects the Piazza di Spagna at the base to the Trinità dei Monti church at the top. The Spanish Steps are not only a stunning example of Baroque architecture but also a vibrant gathering place for both locals and tourists.
The nearby streets are also lined with high-end shops, charming cafes, and historic buildings, making it a fun spot to relax and soak in the atmosphere. Visit earlier in the morning if you would like to experience the Spanish Steps with limited tourists. Every time I visited in the afternoon, the crowds were insane!
Eat Authentic Tiramisu
When deciding what to do in Rome, indulging in authentic tiramisu should be high on your list! This classic Italian dessert, made with layers of coffee-soaked ladyfingers, mascarpone cheese, cocoa, and a hint of liqueur, is a delightful treat. I still dream about the tiramisu I had in Rome at Mr. 100 Tiramisu and Two Sizes.
For the best tiramisu in Rome, you can head to famous spots like Pompi, often referred to as the “King of Tiramisu,” or Bar Pompi, a beloved institution known for its delicious variations. Other great places include Two Sizes, which offers perfectly portioned tiramisu cups, or Mr. 100 Tiramisu that offers innovative takes on this traditional dessert. (I got a peanut butter tiramisu, which was fantastic!) Many restaurants throughout Rome also serve authentic tiramisu on their dessert menu. Be sure to savor tiramisu during your visit to Rome. It’s truly not the same anywhere else in the world!
Get Some of the Best Gelato in the World
Rome is home to some of the best gelato shops in the world, where you can savor creamy, rich flavors that melt on your tongue. For an authentic experience, visit renowned spots like Gelateria del Teatro, Giolitti, and Fatamorgana. These gelaterias use high-quality ingredients and traditional methods to create unforgettable flavors like pistachio, stracciatella, and seasonal fruits.
Another tip for finding authentic gelato, if you see vibrant colorful piles of gelato, this typically is an indicator of a more touristy and less authentic gelato shop. Look for places that have silver metal containers covering their gelato. Places with these are known for having some of the best tasting gelato in the city, without trying to stop tourists by displaying their bright colors. Strolling through the cobblestone streets with a cone of freshly made gelato in hand is one of the simple pleasures that make visiting Rome so special.
Castel Sant’Angelo
When exploring what to do in Rome, consider a visit to Castel Sant’Angelo. Originally built as a mausoleum for Emperor Hadrian, this towering cylindrical structure has served various roles throughout history, including a fortress, a papal residence, and even a prison. Today, Castel Sant’Angelo is a fascinating museum, where you’ll encounter beautiful frescoes, historical artifacts, and incredible views of the city from its rooftop terrace. Located near the Vatican, this iconic landmark provides a unique blend of history, art, and architecture, making it an essential stop on your first adventure in Rome.
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As you plan what to do in Rome, Italy, these 15 experiences are essential for making the most of your first trip to this incredible city. From exploring ancient ruins and magnificent basilicas to enjoying vibrant piazzas and delicious cuisine, Rome offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and modern charm. I throughly enjoyed my time in Rome! Don’t forget to leave some time to wander without an agenda. You never know what you’ll stumble upon!
Heading to Florence next? Check out the 25 best things to do in Florence to make your journey through Italy even more remarkable!
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