Are you planning your schedule for Rome? Explore a range of tour options, from free tours to private tours, for a memorable experience in the Eternal City!
Rome is like an outdoor museum, offering a delightful experience of wandering through its streets. However, with so many attractions, it’s nearly impossible to see everything the city has to offer in just one visit. To help you make the most of your first trip, we’ve put together a guide highlighting the key things you shouldn’t miss in Rome.
From the Colosseum to the Trevi Fountain, as well as the renowned squares and the Vatican, Rome is a city steeped in history and culture. Legend has it that Rome will always endure, making it a captivating destination for cultural enthusiasts. And let’s not forget to indulge in some delicious gelato and pasta while exploring this magnificent city.
To make your sightseeing easier, it’s ideal to have early access to different attractions, right? With the OMNIA Rome & Vatican Card, you can enjoy this benefit along with the Roma Pass, which includes unlimited public transportation.
Join us as we delve deeper into discovering what activities to do in Rome. Are you ready?
In this article, you will find:
- Key attractions in Rome
- Rome’s museums
- Activities to enjoy in Rome without spending any money
- Activities for children in Rome.
- Suggestions for evening activities in Rome
- Activities in Rome to Explore
- Rome transportation service
- Text: Best dining options in Rome
- Accommodation options in Rome
- Have a secure journey to Rome.
- Flights heading to Rome
- Mobile Chip for Rome – A chip designed for mobile devices in Rome.
- Renting a car at Rome airport
- Commonly Asked Questions
Main attractions in Rome
We have curated a collection of the city’s most impressive landmarks and attractions, catering to a diverse audience of all ages, from historical sites to trendy dining spots.
The Saint Peter’s Basilica and Vatican Museums.
The Vatican, the smallest independent state in the world and the residence of the Pope, is a must-visit destination for travelers to Rome. Visitors can explore the magnificent St. Peter’s Basilica, the largest and most significant Catholic structure constructed to date.
If you can, make sure to visit the dome of St. Peter’s, which was created by Michelangelo. While entry to the church is free, visitors must pay at least €5 to climb the stairs to reach the top. It is a challenging climb, but the stunning view of Rome makes it worth it.
Almost every Wednesday throughout the year, the Pope can be seen in St. Peter’s Square for the Papal Audience. To have a close view in a section with chairs, you need an invitation from the Prefecture of the Papal Household. This invitation is free but needs to be requested through the website about two to three months ahead. A great idea is to arrange a guided tour of the Vatican to explore all its fascinating details.
Another alternative is to observe the Pope from a distance and on foot. To achieve this, simply visit St. Peter’s Square. The Papal Audience takes place at 10:30, so it is recommended to arrive at least an hour early as the area tends to be quite busy. On Sundays, at noon, the Pope can be seen on the balcony of his office to lead the Angelus celebration, which involves a captivating 15-minute sermon.
The compact country is also home to the Vatican Museums, a collection of art featuring pieces by renowned artists such as Rafael, Leonardo, Caravaggio, Van Gogh, and more. The main attraction is the Sistine Chapel, where visitors can admire Michelangelo’s iconic ceiling paintings illustrating scenes from Genesis.
Similar to many of the attractions in Rome, it is advisable to purchase tickets for the Vatican Museums ahead of time to avoid waiting in long lines. Tickets can be bought on the official website for €17 (full price) and €8 (reduced price), in addition to a €4 online booking fee.
Rewrite: Sant’Angelo Castle
Near the Vatican is the Sant’Angelo Castle, which construction started in 135 AD under the directive of Emperor Hadrian. He planned to use it as a tomb for himself and his family.
They claim that in the year 590, during a severe plague outbreak in the city, Pope Gregory I reportedly saw a vision of the Archangel Saint Michael atop the castle, declaring the end of the epidemic. As a result, the structure has since been named after the angel.
Years later, in 1277, an 800-meter fortified passageway was constructed to link the castle to Vatican City. The purpose was to establish a secure route for the Pope to flee in case of any threat. Visitors can join a guided tour of Sant’Angelo Castle, including a climb to the terrace for a stunning panoramic view of the area.
Piazza del Popolo and Piazza di Spagna are two well-known squares in Rome.
A direct line connects two significant squares in Rome: Piazza del Popolo and Piazza di Spagna. Piazza del Popolo served as the city’s entrance during the Empire era and features a prominent obelisk honoring Ramses II.
There are three churches in Popolo, with the most well-known being Santa Maria del Popolo. Inside this church, visitors can view two paintings by Caravaggio – “The Conversion of Saint Paul” and “The Crucifixion of St. Peter” – as well as sculptures by Bernini.
From Piazza del Popolo to Piazza di Spagna, it’s about a 10-minute straight walk. However, if you prefer to take a different route, it’s recommended to pass through Via del Corso, which is one of the primary shopping streets in the city.
Upon arrival, you will quickly spot Rome’s renowned staircases that link the square to the Church of Trinità dei Monti. The 135 steps leading to the church are a delightful spot to pause and watch the bustling activity in the area. A key reminder: Eating on the staircases is prohibited, and the police strictly enforce this rule.
In Piazza di Spagna, visitors can explore one of Rome’s key attractions, the Fontana della Barcaccia. This boat-shaped fountain was designed by Pietro Bernini for Pope Urban III but was finished by his son, Gian Lorenzo Bernini, in 1627.
Piazza Navona and the Pantheon are both popular tourist attractions.
If you’re up for a 20-minute stroll, head over to Piazza Navona. This square, situated on the site of the former Domitian stadium, is one of the most stunning in Rome. Its beauty is attributed to its baroque design and the three fountains it showcases: the Fontana dei Quattro Fiumi, Fontana del Moro, and Fontana del Nettuno.
Near the square lies the Pantheon of Rome, a well-preserved historical structure in the city. The unique circular building is remarkable for its dimensions, as it has a diameter and height of 43.30 meters. The dome, which shares the same diameter, is larger than that of the Basilica of Saint Peter. Admission to the Pantheon is free for visitors.
The Trevi Fountain is a famous landmark in Rome, Italy.
From Piazza di Spagna to the Trevi Fountain is approximately an eight-minute walk, but make sure to keep quiet as the crowds heading towards the fountain are so significant that you are unlikely to get lost.
One of Rome’s most popular attractions is the Trevi Fountain, featuring a grand building facade adorned with multiple statues, including one of Neptune. Crowds of tourists flock to this spot to toss coins into the water and capture the ideal selfie. While it may take some patience, you can find the perfect moment to snap a picture worthy of framing.
The tradition on the coins states that tossing one into the fountain ensures a return to Rome. So, it’s a good idea to make sure you hit the mark! 😉
If you prefer to avoid large crowds, consider visiting early in the morning or late at night. During lunchtime, along with the busy atmosphere, the harsh sunlight may not be ideal for photos. While on the topic of lunch, make sure to try the fresh pastas at Pastifício Guerra located between the fountain and Piazza di Spagna. They offer daily-made pasta at a very reasonable price of €4.90.
Paraphrased text: The Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill.
The Colosseum, also known as the Amphiteatrum Flavium, is a renowned symbol of the Roman Empire and is often the first site that comes to mind when thinking of Rome. Its popularity is well-deserved, as the impressive structure was constructed for hosting gladiator battles and animal fights, surrounded by a rich historical background. Exploring the galleries, participating in a guided tour of the gladiators’ arena, or venturing into its underground areas are great ways to experience the grandeur of this iconic landmark.
As you might expect, the lines at this location are just as impressive as the Colosseum, so be sure to purchase your ticket ahead of time. The basic ticket is priced at €12 and provides entry not only to the Colosseum, but also to the Roman Forum and the Palatine Hill. Another option is to opt for a guided tour of the Colosseum, Forum, and Palatine Hill. For those interested in exploring the ancient Roman icon from a different angle, nighttime guided tours are a worthwhile choice.
After exploring every part of the Colosseum, including its museum showcasing the site’s history, be sure to also visit the Roman Forum and the Palatine Hill. The Roman Forum served as the bustling commercial and civic hub of Imperial Rome, hosting political events such as speeches and elections. It’s a fascinating journey through ancient history.
The Palatine Hill, located at the heart of Rome among the seven hills, is one of the city’s oldest areas. It offers views of the Roman Forum and the Circus Maximus, Rome’s largest entertainment venue accommodating up to 150,000 spectators. For those looking to enhance their visit, combining a trip to the Vatican with tours of the Colosseum, Forum, and Palatine Hill is highly recommended.
“The Mouth of Truth and Trastevere”
Near the edge of the Tigris River lies the Basilica of Santa Maria in Cosmedin. The main highlight of the church, which dates back to the 8th century, is the famous La Bocca della Verità, also known as The Mouth of Truth.
Engraved in marble in a circular form, the Mouth of Truth depicts an unusual human face with an open mouth. This object has inspired various legends, with the most popular originating in the Middle Ages. According to this legend, Romans believed that if a person placed their hand in the sculpture’s mouth and told a lie, it would close and bite the hand of the liar.
Previously, admission to the Mouth of Truth was complimentary, but now visitors are required to pay € 2 to utilize the Roman lie detector.
After visiting the Basilica, it is recommended to walk across the river to the delightful area of Trastevere. This neighborhood is filled with numerous bars, restaurants, and cafes, located on picturesque streets that are mostly car-free. The advice is to wander around aimlessly and embrace the relaxed “dolce far niente” attitude of the Italians.
Explore additional Rome tours for a recommended itinerary.
Rome’s museums
Rome is like a living museum with magnificent sculptures and historic artworks at every turn. The city’s beauty is enhanced by the impressive collections found within its museums, such as the Vatican Museums. This institution boasts one of the world’s largest collections, gathered over centuries by various popes, culminating in the renowned Sistine Chapel.
Other galleries showcasing the history of the Roman Empire include the Capitoline Museums, which feature sculptures depicting the founding myth of Romulus and Remus being nursed by the “Loba.” Furthermore, there are various museums displaying contemporary art and palaces in the area.
Explore some of the key points that are necessary to consider.
- Admission to the Vatican Museums costs € 46.
- Admission to the Capitoline Museums costs € 50.
- Borghese Gallery admission costs 55 euros.
- Admission to the Roman National Museum costs 21 euros.
- Doria Pamphilj Palace admission fee is €17.
- Contemporary Art Museum admission is free.
- Admission to the museums at Sant’Angelo Castle costs € 15.
Explore additional Rome tours to discover an essential itinerary.
Activities in Rome that don’t cost anything
Here it is worth mentioning that while the tours are free, there is a tipping culture in place. Visitors are typically expected to give a gratuity to the guides at the conclusion of the tour, but the amount is not fixed and individuals can donate as they see fit. Additionally, it is essential to be aware that the guides conduct the tours in Spanish.
Another point worth noting is that the Vatican Museums offer free admission on the final Sunday of each month. Explore excellent tour options in Rome.
- Text: Trip to the Pantheon
- Complimentary guided tour of Rome
- Complimentary guided tour of Ancient Rome’s imperial sites.
- Complimentary guided exploration of Rome’s mysterious tales and folklore.
- Guided tour of the Vatican at no cost
- Complimentary guided visit to the Baroque churches.
- Complimentary guided tour of the Lateran and Holy Stairs
Explore additional tours in Rome for an essential itinerary.
Activities for children in Rome
Families with children can explore different tour options that are enjoyable. In Rome, there are various fun activities to engage in with kids, such as visiting the zoo, experiencing an amusement park, exploring interactive museums with 3D displays, or learning to create a traditional Italian pizza as a family. Take a look at our selection of alternative tours for families with children.
- Admission to Rome’s Bioparco Zoo costs 17 euros.
- Admission to Cinecittà World costs €27.
- Greetings! Admission to the Rome Interactive Museum costs € 17.50.
- Interactive Museum IKONO Rome admission fee is 18 euros.
- Italian pizza workshop – € 55
Explore additional Rome tours to discover essential sightseeing routes.
Suggestions for evening activities in Rome
There are plenty of activities to enjoy in Rome in the evening, such as strolling through the bustling streets filled with many dining options and admiring the city’s beauty under the moonlight. A fun suggestion is to wander around the artistic neighborhood of Trastevere, take a nighttime tour of the sights, or attend a traditional theater or opera performance.
- Guided night visit to the Colosseum priced at €65.
- Guided evening tour of Rome’s illuminated sights for € 50.
- Guided culinary exploration of Trastevere district – € 28
- Performance of La Traviata with ballet at the church of São Paulo Intramuros for €20.
- Opera performance at Santa Chiara Palace – cost of € 35
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Activities to Partake in Rome
Anyone visiting Rome should seize the chance to explore the Eternal City, even if it rains. We have listed some indoor activities as alternatives, but if the rain is not too heavy, it’s recommended to bring an umbrella and explore the iconic monuments on foot in such conditions. Explore other sightseeing options as well.
- Visit Hard Rock Cafe Rome without waiting in line for only €22.50.
- Guided tour offering early entry to the Sistine Chapel and Vatican Museums for €59.
- Italian cooking class and tiramisu dessert – € 60
- Guided tour in a private vehicle with a driver costs € 180.
- Guided visit of the Priscila Catacombs priced at € 25.
- Guided tour of Rome’s wineries for €40.
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Rewording: Transportation services in Rome
To assist you in navigating from Rome’s airport to key locations in the city like Termini Station or the city center, there are various transfer services available that offer a great selection of options. You can opt for a private vehicle for added comfort. Here are a few suggested routes:
- Rome transfers cost € 71.
- Transfer from Fiumicino airport to Rome costs 7 euros.
- Transfer from Ciampino airport to Rome costs € 6.
Explore all available tour options in Rome to discover essential sightseeing routes.
Suggestion for dining in Rome
Rome is a delightful destination for food enthusiasts, although prices in the Italian capital are not always budget-friendly. The War Office, situated on Via della Croce, offers two affordable meal options. Just a short distance away is Pompi, where you can enjoy single servings of tiramisu. In Trastevere, Grazia & Graziella is a delightful find for those looking to savor delicious Italian pasta at a reasonable cost. For those seeking a classic dining experience with exceptional pasta dishes, La Campana in Campo di Fiori is a popular choice.
For those willing to spend a bit more, excellent choices include the Rome Municipal Market and Il Vero Alfredo. When it comes to pizza, Sesamo Trastevere and Er Pizzicarolo are good options, while Gelateria Il Dolce Sorriso and La Gelateria Frigidarium stand out for gelato. Take a look at our selection of delicious treats:
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- Title: Grazia & Graziella
- Could you please provide more context or details about the text “Pompi” so I can accurately paraphrase it for you?
- The Bell
- Rome’s Municipal Market
- The Real Alfredo
- Sesame Trastevere can be rephrased as “Sesame in Trastevere.”
- The Pizzicarolo
- The Sweet Smile Gelato Shop
- The Gelateria Frigidarium – A Gelato Shop
Accommodation options in Rome
chsyys/UnPlash
To assist you in choosing the ideal accommodation in Rome, we have curated a list of top hotels that are conveniently situated near the main attractions mentioned in this post. These options provide various amenities for guests to enjoy. See below for more details.
- Baglioni Hotel Regina offers daily rates starting at €510, with a customer rating of 9.3.
- San Pietro Grand Suite is available daily starting at €171, with a rating of 9.1.
- Hotel Hiberia offers rooms starting at €195 per day, with a rating of 8.6.
- Navona Queen Rooftop offers daily rates starting from €181, with a rating of 8.9.
- The Hive Hotel is available daily starting at €133, with a rating of 8.6.
- Otivm Hotel offers daily rates starting at €229 with a rating of 9.0.
- Ibis Styles Roma Eur – Priced at €122 per day – Rating of 8.2
- Mercure Roma Centro Termini offers daily rates starting at €127, and has received a rating of 8.7.
Discover additional accommodations in Rome to guarantee an ideal stay.
Have a secure journey to Rome.
Text: It is mandatory to have travel insurance when visiting Rome as it is part of the Schengen Treaty. The insurance must provide medical coverage of at least €30,000 for travelers. Apart from being a requirement, having insurance can make your trip more seamless. Don’t forget to check out our discount coupon for Promo Insurance. – CHECK PRICES
Trips to Rome by plane
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Renting a car at Rome airport
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Commonly Asked Questions
Text: Looking for things to do in Rome? Some top recommendations include exploring iconic landmarks such as the Colosseum, Trevi Fountain, Piazza del Popolo, Spanish Steps, Vatican City with St. Peter’s Basilica, Castel Sant’Angelo, Piazza Navona, Pantheon, Bocca della Verità (Mouth of Truth), and the charming Trastevere neighborhood. Discover a variety of Rome sightseeing tours and activities on Civitatis.
Text: Looking for recommendations on how to spend 3 days in Rome? For a quick visit, consider exploring Rome’s Historic Center with landmarks like Piazza Navona, Piazza Spagna, and the Trevi Fountain on day one; visit the Colosseum and Roman Forum on day two; and dedicate day three to the Vatican and various museums. Discover more sightseeing options in Rome through Civitatis.
Text: Looking for activities in Rome and the surrounding areas? In addition to various squares featuring impressive sculptures, the Colosseum, and multiple museums, there are numerous day trips from Rome available. These include tours to Tivoli, Siena, San Gimignano, Chianti, Ostia Antica, Ponza, Pompeii, Sorrento, and Capri. Explore all sightseeing options in Rome with Civitatis.
Suggestions for evening activities in Rome include the Night Tour near the Colosseum, the illuminated Rome Night Tour, a Gastronomic Tour in the Trastevere neighborhood, a performance of La Traviata with ballet at the church of San Paolo Intramuros, and an Opera Concert at the Santa Chiara Palace.
Suggestions for free activities in Rome include visiting the Pantheon, Trevi Fountain, exploring Imperial Rome, discovering the mysteries and legends of the city, exploring the Vatican area, and visiting Baroque churches.
What activities can you enjoy in Rome with kids? Some great options include visiting the Bioparco di Roma Zoo, the amusement park Cinecittà World, the Welcome to Rome Interactive Museum, the IKONO Interactive Museum Rome, or even taking a family Italian pizza-making class.
Where is the best place to stay in Rome? Staying near Termini Station is a good choice, but staying in the Historic Centre near popular attractions like the Colosseum, the Trevi Fountain, or the Vatican is also highly recommended. Explore all the hotel options in Rome on Booking.com.
Do I need to ensure a safe journey when traveling to Italy? We must book a secure European trip to Italy, as Italy is a member of the Schengen Treaty.
