The magic of Rome, Italy, is very well documented. While most of the highlights are fairly well-known, as you’ll soon see, there are an equal number of hidden gems that you could easily overlook.
The Italian capital is right up there with some of the most famous cities in the world. At one point, it was considered to be the capital of the world. As such, there are many archaeological sites to explore in addition to countless iconic art collections and cultural heritage attractions to keep you busy potentially for a lifetime.
From touring the ancient Colosseum and Roman Forum to shopping at Testaccio Market to underground tours of the Vatican’s necropolis, this city is bursting at it’s seams with things to do.
Rome is a destination that most travelers have on their bucket lists. It’s a city that offers so much to see and do, and honestly, no single list of things to do in the so-called Eternal City can fully capture every wonderful experience that awaits you there.
To fully experience Rome in all of it’s glory, you could easily spend weeks or even months taking in all of it’s cultural, historical, and entertainment highlights, but if your time in Rome is limited, this video will help you get off to a good start in your exploration of the city.
Viewcation Presents: The Best Things To Do In Rome, Italy
The Colosseum
This ancient attraction is one of the most famous tourist bucket list items on the planet. For most first-time visitors to Rome, that moment when you first lay your eyes on this majestic structure is nothing short of a religious experience.
Every time you see the Colosseum, you can’t help but be in awe by what it must of taken to construct it all those centuries ago. Back in it’s day, the Colosseum used to host, on average, 65,000 spectators whenever an event was held. It was used for everything from public executions to theater to gladiator contests in ancient and early medieval times. Later on, it was used for housing and other mundane purposes.
Unfortunately, over time greedy visitors stole much of the stone that was used to construct this monolithic structure. It was also damaged extensively by earthquakes, leaving behind the very well-known, albeit incomplete, structure that we all know and love today.
Being one of the top attractions in Rome, the Colosseum regularly draws in large crowds. Visits are made easier by booking tickets online, especially if you’re trying to beat the line. To get the full experience, we highly recommend taking a guided tour.
Highly rated but by no means overrated, the Colosseum is sure to be one of the biggest highlights of your Roman vacation.
Trevi Fountain
This must-see destination is situated among a grouping of upscale hotels, shops, restaurants, and clubs. It’s construction was finished in the mid-18th century.
The fountain is a prime example of baroque design and features a distinctly mythological character at it’s center
The sea god, Oceanus, dramatically arises from the pool, flanked by his Tritons. In 2015, the fountain underwent a massive, multi-million Euro restoration.
According to local custom, if you throw a coin or two into the fountain with your right hand over your left shoulder, you’ll be destined to return to Rome, fall in love with a beautiful Roman girl or guy, and subsequently marry said Roman.
Pantheon
This ancient Roman temple is dedicated to all of the gods – hence the name.
The Pantheon is one of the most famous and best-preserved buildings from ancient times and continues to impress visitors to the modern day.
It was originally constructed in 125 AD under Emperor Hadrian. It was erected on the former site of a temple built by Marcus Agrippa. It’s known for having the largest non-reinforced dome in the world, measuring 142 ft. in diameter.
If you can plan your trip to visit during the weekend of Pentecost, which happens to fall on May 28th this year, be sure to attend Sunday Mass. Rose petals are dropped from the Pantheon’s oculus during the celebration. It really is a sight to behold.
Vatican Museums and The Sistine Chapel
Founded in the 16th century by Pope Julius II, the Vatican museums house one of the most extensive and important collections of art in the world, spread out over 54 galleries, hallways, and courtyards. Here, you’ll discover thousands of ancient sculptures, paintings, and relics, including the works of Raphael and Michelangelo’s famous frescoes in the Sistine Chapel.
If you have the time, book tickets to plunge deep below the ground floor to see the Vatican Necropolis, which is located right beneath St. Peter’s Basilica. Another highlight is the Vatican Gardens which are filled with beautiful flora, fountains, and a replica of the Grotto dedicated to Our Lady of Lourdes.
National Museums of Rome
While Rome’s four national museums have historically been overlooked, they are some of the most thrilling cultural heritage sites in the city at the moment. The museums feature contemporary works, hands-on exhibits, and many ancient sculptures.
The museums proudly display numerous important archaeological relics that have been discovered in Rome and are dispersed throughout four locations, Palazza Altemps, Palazzo Massimo alle Terme, Crypta Balbi, and the Baths of Diocletian.
By paying an 11 Euro fee, you can gain access to all four sites for three days.
Gianicolo
Lovingly referred to as the city of Seven Hills, Rome is famed for it’s scenic vista points and countless terraces that give visitors a chance to see some of the most stunning views of the city’s skyline. Right above the Trastevere neighborhood, you’ll find Gianicolo. And while it’s not technically one of the city’s legendary seven hills, it is worth the trek due to the fact that it’s the highest point in Rome.
Guests visiting this beautiful spot will be treated to some of the expansive views of the Eternal City. Nearby, you can also see the fountain featured in the opening scene of La Grande Bellezza, dell’Acqua Paola. If the views aren’t enough to take your breath away, the fountain sure will.
Rome Opera House
Construction on this marvel was wrapped up in the late 1800s. The Teatro dell’Opera, as it’s officially known, is a Neoclassical opera house that hosts well over 200 performances every year. Patrons can see everything from ballet to opera to contemporary dance. The opera house additionally has collabed with a number of celebrity designers and fashion houses, including Dior, Valentino, and Sofia Coppola, to produce innovative shows.
During the summer, performances are held outside in the Baths of Caracalla, a giant archaeological complex that is said to have been built between 213 and 216 AD. The site features an open-air pool, library, shops, saunas, and more.
Stadio Olympico
Rome is home to two world-class football clubs SS Lazio and AS Roma. Both clubs play at the Stadio Olympico, which happens to be Rome’s largest sports facility. Only the bravest of visitors will want to attend a game between the two rival clubs, but a trip to the stadium is sure to be an unforgettable one.
The Stadio Olympico is located inside the Foro Italico complex on the northern end of the city. It’s owned by the Italian National Olympic Committee and first opened in 1937.
If you prefer a more laid-back experience, consider catching a rugby game here during the annual Six Nations Championship Tournament that’s held in late winter.
Borghese Gallery and Museum
Commissioned in the 16th century by Cardinal Scipione Borghese as means of housing his immense art collection, Galleria Borghese remains one of Rome’s premier museums. Scipione was an avid art collector, and a big fan of the works of Caravaggio, so you can be sure to see a few of his outstanding creations inside as well.
A few of the museum’s most notable highlights include Paulina Bonaparte by Canova, Apollo and Daphne by Bernini, and Boy with a Basket of Fruit by Caravaggio.
Castsl Sant’Angelo
Also known as The Castle of Angels, Castal Sant’Angelo is a striking cylindrically-shaped fortification that was built on the banks of the Tiber River by Emperor Hadrian in the 2nd Century BC. It was originally meant to be used as a mausoleum for Hadrian and his family members but it was later used by the popes as a fortress and castle. Fascinatingly, the castle features a secret passageway that connects it with Vatican City.
Today, it’s no longer used for defensive purposes but instead serves as a museum full of frescoed rooms, a vast collection of medieval weapons and armor, and other artifacts. The castle also provides visitors with glorious views of the city and nearby St. Peter’s Basilica.
Testaccio Market
Rome has long been known for it’s culinary scene. It’s no secret that some of the best food in the world can be found within the city limits of the Eternal City. Rome’s oldest culinary traditions are firmly rooted in this long-running neighborhood marketplace, making it an ideal stop for foodies and gourmands of all kinds.
The neighborhood once housed the largest slaughterhouse on the European continent. Employees of this facility were routinely paid in excess animal parts. These days, it’s one of the best places in the city to experience it’s diverse flavors while sampling the delectable street food.
Testaccio Market is a bustling and very modern building that is filled with a glut of stands and stalls that will ignite the senses. You can find everything from tripe stews to fresh-baked breads to artichoke sandwiches and everything in between.
Unfortunately, this is where our little tour of Rome must end. We’ve only covered the tip of the iceberg of what the Italian Capital has to offer, but you should at least have a good starting point to plan your upcoming Roman vacation.
Did you know that the Roman Colosseum used to host 65,000 attendees whenever it hosted events and that the highest point in Rome is a place called Gianicolo? Share your thoughts on Rome in the comments section down below. If you’ve already had the pleasure of visiting the city of seven hills, let us know what a few of your favorite hidden gems are!
As always, thanks for watching, and happy travels!