17 Unforgettable Things to Do in Rome, Italy

Ready to Fall a Little in Love With Rome?

This guide walks you through timeless icons, hidden corners, and everyday magic—one unforgettable experience at a time.

Rome is an experience that unfolds around every corner, in every piazza, where layers of ancient history and contemporary life intertwine. It is more than a city you visit. From the moment you arrive—whether landing at Fiumicino Airport or stepping off a train at Termini—you become part of a narrative that has been evolving for more than 2,500 years. Welcome to the Eternal City, where popes gather at St. Peter’s Basilica, emperors once walked beside the Tiber River, and rooftop terraces celebrate la dolce vita.

This guide highlights the best Rome sightseeing experiences, from iconic landmarks to lesser-known gems, along with expert tips to avoid tourist crowds. Let’s begin.

The Colosseum remains Rome’s most recognizable monument, symbolizing the grandeur of the Roman Empire. Booking tickets in advance helps skip long queues, and arriving early allows for a quieter visit.

Explore the underground chambers where gladiators and animals awaited combat, then walk through the Imperial Forums—the political and ceremonial heart of ancient Rome. Nearby Palatine Hill offers sweeping views of the Roman Forum and Circus Maximus.

Tip: An e-bike tour is an efficient way to explore this historic district and nearby neighborhoods.

Adjacent to the Colosseum, the Roman Forum once served as ancient Rome’s civic and commercial hub. Walking among its ruins reveals temples, arches, and monuments connected to emperors like Augustus and Hadrian.

Palatine Hill, traditionally regarded as the birthplace of Rome, offers exceptional viewpoints over the Forum. Highlights include the Temple of Saturn and the Arch of Titus.

Expert advice: A knowledgeable guide greatly enhances understanding of these archaeological sites.

A visit to Vatican City is essential. This independent city-state houses the Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel, and St. Peter’s Basilica.

Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel ceiling remains one of the world’s most celebrated artistic achievements. Climbing St. Peter’s Dome (typically €8–€10 stairs, slightly more by elevator) rewards visitors with panoramic views over Rome.

Arrive early to avoid long lines, or book a guided tour for priority access.

The Trevi Fountain is among the world’s most famous fountains. Tradition says tossing a coin ensures a future return to Rome.

Visit early morning or late evening for fewer crowds and better lighting. From here, the Pantheon and Piazza della Rotonda are easily reachable on foot.

By day, Campo de’ Fiori hosts a lively produce market; by night, it transforms into a vibrant social square filled with cafés and wine bars.

Nearby, the historic Jewish Ghetto offers excellent Roman-Jewish cuisine and centuries-old cultural heritage.

The 135-step Spanish Steps connect Piazza di Spagna to Trinità dei Monti. While sitting on the steps is now restricted to preserve them, the area remains perfect for strolling, shopping, and photography.

Villa Borghese gardens are just a short walk uphill.

Located on Aventine Hill, this peaceful garden offers scenic views of the Tiber River and Rome’s skyline. It is ideal for a quiet break away from busy tourist zones.

Across the Tiber River, Trastevere features cobbled streets, ivy-covered buildings, and traditional trattorias.

Visit Basilica di Santa Maria in Trastevere, one of Rome’s oldest churches, known for its stunning mosaics.

Built on the site of Domitian’s ancient stadium, Piazza Navona features Bernini’s Fountain of the Four Rivers, Baroque architecture, and lively street performers.

The Pantheon is only a short walk away.

The Via Appia Antica, one of Rome’s oldest roads, offers a fascinating glimpse into ancient travel routes.

Nearby catacombs, such as San Callisto, provide insight into early Christian burial practices. Guided tours are recommended.

Michelangelo designed Piazza del Campidoglio atop Capitoline Hill. The Capitoline Museums house Roman sculptures, artifacts, and panoramic viewpoints over the Forum.

Rome’s largest central park features landscaped gardens, museums, and scenic viewpoints. The Galleria Borghese contains masterpieces by Bernini and Caravaggio—advance reservations are essential.

Accessible only through guided tours, the Vatican Gardens offer tranquil green space, fountains, and historical landscaping behind St. Peter’s Basilica.

Rome offers many free experiences:

• The Pantheon (now ticketed in some cases but often free on certain days)
• Numerous historic churches
• Public piazzas and fountains
• Scenic walking routes through the historic center

Explore Testaccio Market for authentic Roman cuisine, including pizza al taglio, supplì, and pastries. Food tours provide cultural context and access to local specialties.

Tivoli, about an hour from Rome, features:

• Hadrian’s Villa (Villa Adriana) — a vast Roman imperial complex
• Villa d’Este — famous Renaissance gardens and fountains

The Baths of Caracalla showcase impressive ancient Roman engineering. Nearby Circus Maximus, once a massive chariot racing stadium, is now a large public park.

Insider Tips for Visiting Rome

• Wear comfortable walking shoes for cobblestones
• Visit major sites early in the morning
• Reserve tickets in advance during peak seasons
• Explore quieter neighborhoods beyond main landmarks
• Rooftop terraces offer memorable sunset views

Why Rome Remains Timeless

Rome seamlessly blends past and present. Whether sipping espresso in a lively piazza, admiring Renaissance art, or exploring ancient ruins, the city continually reveals new layers of history and culture.

With reliable connectivity tools like eSIM travel data, navigating the city becomes easier, letting you focus on discovery.

Pack comfortable shoes, bring curiosity, and prepare to fall in love with Rome.

Make Hotel Center 3 Rome your comfortable base for exploring the Eternal City — reserve your stay today.