Ah, Rome! The city of emperors, gladiators, popes, pizza, and passion. It’s one of those rare places where every alleyway has a story, every fountain is a masterpiece, and even a simple espresso feels like a cultural event. If you’re wondering about the top things to do in Rome, you’re in the right place.

Whether it’s your first visit or your fifth, Rome has a magical way of surprising you. From its ancient ruins to Renaissance art, from cobbled streets to rooftop views, this is your ultimate guide to exploring the top experiences that make Rome unforgettable.

Explore Ancient Wonders

1. The Colosseum – Where Legends Fought

A symbol of Rome and one of the most famous landmarks in the world, the Colosseum is a must-visit. Stand where gladiators once battled, imagine roaring crowds, and take in the sheer scale of this architectural marvel.

2. Roman Forum – Heart of the Ancient City

Just next to the Colosseum lies the Roman Forum, where you’ll find the remains of temples, government buildings, and basilicas. Walking here is like stepping back 2,000 years into Rome’s political and cultural core.

3. Palatine Hill – The Birthplace of Rome

Legend says Romulus founded Rome here. Wander the ruins of imperial palaces and enjoy panoramic views of the Forum below.

Dive Into Vatican City

4. St. Peter’s Basilica – A Spiritual Marvel

Even if you’re not religious, St. Peter’s Basilica is a jaw-dropping experience. From Michelangelo’s Pietà to the massive dome you can climb, it’s one of the most beautiful buildings in the world.

5. Vatican Museums – Artistic Overload

Housing thousands of works of art, from Egyptian relics to Renaissance masterpieces, this museum complex ends with the crown jewel—the Sistine Chapel, featuring Michelangelo’s legendary ceiling.

6. St. Peter’s Square – Grandeur All Around

Stand in this impressive piazza and soak in the massive colonnades, the fountains, and the sheer scale of the Vatican’s entrance.

Admire Rome’s Fountains and Squares

7. Trevi Fountain – Make a Wish

Toss a coin into this dazzling Baroque masterpiece to ensure your return to Rome. Bonus points if you visit early morning or after dark to avoid crowds.

8. Piazza Navona – Baroque Beauty

Built over a Roman stadium, this charming square features Bernini’s Fountain of the Four Rivers, street performers, and lively cafés perfect for people-watching.

9. Spanish Steps – Grand and Elegant

These iconic steps connect Piazza di Spagna to Trinità dei Monti. Whether you climb them or sit and relax, the views—and the vibe—are worth it.

Discover Unique Churches

10. The Pantheon – Ancient Engineering Wonder

Once a temple to all Roman gods, now a church, the Pantheon boasts the world’s largest unreinforced concrete dome. The light that beams through its oculus is mesmerizing.

11. San Clemente – Three Layers of History

This lesser-known basilica has an underground journey through centuries. Descend through a 12th-century church to a 4th-century one, and even a Roman house.

12. Santa Maria Maggiore – Stunning and Spiritual

One of the four major basilicas of Rome, it’s filled with mosaics, golden ceilings, and centuries of religious art.

Wander the Most Charming Neighborhoods

13. Trastevere – Bohemian Spirit

Cobblestone streets, ivy-covered buildings, buzzing piazzas, and some of the best food in Rome. Trastevere is a vibe you’ll fall in love with.

14. Monti – Trendy and Timeless

This artsy neighborhood blends vintage charm with hip boutiques, wine bars, and old-school trattorias—all near the Colosseum.

15. Jewish Ghetto – Culture Meets Cuisine

Explore the rich history and incredible food of this historic neighborhood. Don’t miss the iconic fried artichokes!

Catch Unforgettable Views

16. Janiculum Hill (Gianicolo) – Rome’s Best Skyline

One of the highest points in the city, Janiculum Hill offers sweeping views of Rome. And don’t miss the daily noon cannon!

17. Pincian Terrace – Picture-Perfect Spot

Above Piazza del Popolo lies a panoramic terrace ideal for watching the sunset over Rome’s rooftops and domes.

18. Castel Sant’Angelo – Rooftop Romance

This fortress has served as a mausoleum, castle, and museum. Head to the rooftop for incredible views of the Vatican and the Tiber River.

Relax in Roman Parks

19. Villa Borghese – Rome’s Central Park

Spacious and green, this park is perfect for biking, boating, or visiting the Borghese Gallery with its stunning sculptures and paintings.

20. Orange Garden – Serenity and Scents

Located on the Aventine Hill, this quiet garden offers orange trees, shade, and a postcard-worthy view of the Vatican.

21. Appian Way (Via Appia Antica) – Ride Through History

Rent a bike and travel down one of the oldest roads in Rome. You’ll pass catacombs, aqueducts, and ancient tombs along the way.

Eat and Drink Like a Roman

22. Devour Roman Pasta Dishes

You can’t leave Rome without trying:

  • Carbonara – With guanciale, egg, pecorino, and pepper.

  • Cacio e Pepe – Cheese and pepper simplicity.

  • Amatriciana – Spicy and savory tomato sauce with pork.

23. Grab Gelato from a Local Favorite

Top spots include:

  • Giolitti – Classic and famous.

  • Fatamorgana – Natural ingredients and creative flavors.

  • Frigidarium – Famous for chocolate-dipped cones.

24. Take a Food Tour or Cooking Class

Join a Roman food tour through Testaccio or Trastevere, or take a cooking class to make your own pasta from scratch!

See Rome After Dark

25. Walk the Monuments at Night

The Colosseum, Pantheon, and Trevi Fountain glow beautifully under the city lights. Rome at night is another world—less crowded, more romantic.

26. Tiber River Nights in Summer

During the warmer months, the Tiber comes alive with open-air markets, music, and pop-up bars.

27. Enjoy Live Music in Trastevere

Find a spot on a quiet piazza or a local bar and enjoy the vibe. There’s no better soundtrack for your Roman evening than a street musician’s serenade.

Hidden Gems You’ll Love

28. Aventine Keyhole – A Secret View

Peep through a tiny keyhole in the Piazza of the Knights of Malta to see a perfectly framed view of St. Peter’s Basilica. It’s Rome’s most delightful surprise.

29. Testaccio Market – Local Life in Full Color

Forget tourist traps—this is where real Romans shop, eat, and socialize. Grab a slice of pizza, browse fresh produce, or chat with local vendors.

30. Basilica of San Pietro in Vincoli – Michelangelo’s Moses

This quiet church houses one of Michelangelo’s masterpieces: the statue of Moses. It’s powerful, overlooked, and absolutely worth a stop.

Conclusion

When you think of the top things to do in Rome, it’s tempting to focus only on the Colosseum, Vatican, and Trevi Fountain. But Rome is more than its highlights—it’s a city that’s meant to be felt. It’s in the chaos of traffic, the clinking of coffee cups, the smell of basil in the air, and the echo of church bells in the distance.

Take time to wander. Get lost. Try that unknown trattoria. Talk to locals. Sit on a step and just be. The best parts of Rome often aren’t on any map—they find you.

FAQS

1. What are the absolute must-see attractions in Rome?

The Colosseum, Vatican Museums (including the Sistine Chapel), St. Peter’s Basilica, and the Trevi Fountain are top of the list.

2. How many days do I need to explore Rome properly?

Ideally 4–5 days. That gives you enough time to see major sights, relax in piazzas, and explore off-the-beaten-path neighborhoods.

3. Are Rome’s top attractions walkable?

Yes! Central Rome is surprisingly walkable, and many top sights are within 20–30 minutes of each other by foot.

4. What’s the best time to visit Rome?

April to June and September to October offer the best weather and fewer crowds. July and August can be hot and packed.

5. Should I buy skip-the-line tickets?

Absolutely. For places like the Colosseum, Vatican Museums, and Borghese Gallery, skip-the-line tickets save hours of waiting.