15 Best Things to Do in Rome Italy

Discover the best things to do in Rome Italy — from the Colosseum and Vatican to Trastevere and Trevi Fountain — with personal travel stories and tips.

Rome is not just a city you visit — it’s a city you feel.
I’ve been to Rome twice during my time studying in Italy: once in May, when late spring slowly leaned into early summer, and once again in July, traveling with friends under the intense Roman sun. Despite the different seasons and travel styles, one thing never changed: Rome always felt timeless.

Rome has been called the Eternal City since the 1st century BC, and honestly, no name fits better. Every step here pulls you backward through thousands of years. Walking its streets, I often felt lost inside the myths and histories I once read in books — emperors, gladiators, gods, and artists all somehow still present in stone, shadow, and silence between the crowds.

Yes, Rome is crowded. Intensely so. But it’s absolutely worth it.

In this guide, I’ll share the best things to do in Rome, Italy, mixing iconic landmarks, must-see experiences, and personal moments that made this city unforgettable.

1. Watch the Sunset at the Colosseum

Watching the sunset at the Colosseum is one of the most beautiful moments in Rome. As the light softens, the ancient stone turns golden and the crowds slowly thin, making the Colosseum feel powerful and timeless.

Although exploring the inside of the Colosseum is also interesting, I personally prefer staying outside. The interior can be very crowded, and if you’re short on time, you don’t really need to go inside. Simply walking around or sitting nearby at sunset is enough to experience the magic of the Eternal City.

2. Step Back in Time at the Roman Forum

The Roman Forum was once the political, social, and commercial center of ancient Rome. Walking through its ruins feels like stepping directly into the heart of the Roman Empire, where temples, basilicas, and public spaces once shaped everyday life.

Today, the Forum is a vast open-air museum filled with columns, arches, and stone paths. Take your time to wander slowly and imagine how lively this place must have been thousands of years ago. It’s one of the best spots in Rome to truly feel the city’s deep history.

3. Climb Palatine Hill for Panoramic Views

Rising above the Roman Forum, Palatine Hill is one of the best places to enjoy panoramic views of ancient and modern Rome. From the top, you can clearly see the Roman Forum below and the Colosseum nearby, with the city stretching out in every direction.

I personally love this view much more than walking inside the Roman Forum. Standing here, it truly feels like you’re seeing a piece of history with your own eyes — quiet, powerful, and unforgettable. It’s usually quieter than the Forum itself, making it a great place to slow down, take photos, and appreciate how many layers of history are packed into one view.

4. Stand Beneath the Dome of the Pantheon

The Pantheon is one of the most impressive ancient buildings in Rome — and still perfectly preserved. Standing beneath its massive dome, you can watch sunlight fall through the open oculus, creating a quiet and almost magical atmosphere.

Despite being nearly 2,000 years old, the Pantheon feels timeless. It’s a place where architecture, history, and silence come together in a very powerful way.

5. Visit Trevi Fountain Late at Night or Early in the Morning

The Trevi Fountain is one of the most famous sights in Rome, but it’s extremely crowded during the day. The best time to visit is late at night or very early in the morning, when the crowds are much smaller and the atmosphere feels more magical.

With fewer people around, you can really enjoy the sound of the water and the beauty of the fountain. Don’t forget to toss a coin — it’s said to guarantee your return to Rome.

6. Explore Vatican City and St. Peter’s Basilica

The Vatican City is a must-visit in Rome, home to some of the world’s most important art and architecture. The Vatican Museums are vast and impressive, but also very crowded, so visiting early is highly recommended.

Inside St. Peter’s Basilica, my breath was truly taken the moment I looked up at the golden dome. The scale, the light, and the details are overwhelming in the best way. This is, without doubt, the most beautiful church I’ve ever seen in my life.

7. Wander Trastevere & Step Inside Basilica di Santa Maria in Trastevere

Trastevere is one of the most charming areas in Rome, known for its narrow streets, warm evening lights, and lively local atmosphere. It’s the perfect place to wander without a plan, especially in the evening when restaurants and cafés come alive.

In the heart of the neighborhood, Basilica di Santa Maria in Trastevere is well worth stepping inside. Its golden mosaics and peaceful interior offer a beautiful contrast to the busy streets outside.

8. Relax at Piazza Navona, Piazza del Popolo & Enjoy People Watching in a Roman Piazza

Rome’s piazzas feel like open-air living rooms. Piazza Navona is lively and artistic, filled with fountains and street performers, while Piazza del Popolo feels grand and spacious.

Find a seat, order a coffee or gelato, and simply watch daily life unfold. People watching in a Roman piazza is one of the simplest — and most enjoyable — things to do in Rome.

9. Climb the Spanish Steps

The Spanish Steps connect the busy streets below with a quieter viewpoint above. Today, you can no longer sit, eat, or linger on the steps — these activities are forbidden due to the huge crowds in recent years.

Still, walking up the Spanish Steps is absolutely worth it. Each step feels like part of a masterpiece from the Roman era, elegant and timeless. Even without stopping, climbing them feels like stepping directly onto a work of art woven into the city’s history.

10. Walk Through Circus Maximus

Once the largest chariot-racing stadium of ancient Rome, Circus Maximus is now a wide, open space with a calm atmosphere. Walking through it feels surprisingly peaceful compared to other historic sites.

Standing here, it’s hard to imagine the noise and excitement that once filled this place — which makes the experience even more fascinating.

11. Visit Castel Sant’Angelo

The Castel Sant’Angelo has served many roles over the centuries — from imperial mausoleum to fortress and papal refuge. Walking across the bridge leading to it, lined with statues, is one of the most scenic approaches in Rome.

From the top, you’re rewarded with beautiful views over the Tiber River and the city, making it a worthwhile stop even if you don’t spend too long inside.

12. Escape the Crowds at Villa Borghese

When Rome feels overwhelming, Villa Borghese offers a welcome escape. This large green park is perfect for slowing down after busy sightseeing days.

With shaded paths, open spaces, and peaceful corners, it’s an ideal place to rest, walk, or simply enjoy a quieter side of Rome away from the crowds.

13. Explore Rome’s Hidden Basilicas

Every time I stepped inside a basilica, I felt completely overwhelmed. The scale, the silence, the light, and the details were almost too much to take in at once. Even the lesser-known basilicas in Rome feel incredibly grand, as if you’ve accidentally walked into a museum filled with centuries of history and devotion.

Some of my most memorable moments in Rome came from wandering into a quiet basilica by chance and standing there in awe, surrounded by art, faith, and time.

Did you know?

Basilicas, cathedrals, and churches are not the same.
A church is any place of Christian worship. A cathedral is a church that holds the bishop’s official seat. A basilica is a church granted special status by the Pope because of its historical or spiritual importance.
In short: all basilicas and cathedrals are churches, but not all churches are basilicas or cathedrals.
Rome alone is home to over 60 basilicas — both major and minor — scattered throughout the city’s ancient and modern neighborhoods.

14. Wander around Piazza Venezia and Monument to Victor Emmanuel II

The Monument to Victor Emmanuel II is one of the most striking landmarks in Rome. Also known as the Vittoriano or Altare della Patria, this massive white marble monument stands out sharply against the city’s older, earth-toned buildings.

You may love it or hate it — many people do both — but climbing up to the upper terraces is absolutely worth it. From the top, you get one of the best panoramic views over Rome, with the Roman Forum, Colosseum, and city rooftops stretching into the distance.

15. Visit the Baths of Caracalla

The Baths of Caracalla are among the largest and most impressive ancient bath complexes in the world. Walking through these vast ruins gives you a real sense of how advanced and luxurious daily life was in ancient Rome.

Compared to the city center, this site is much less crowded, making it a great place to explore at a slower pace. The sheer scale of the walls and open spaces is breathtaking — a powerful reminder that Rome’s greatness wasn’t only about temples and emperors, but also about everyday life.

How to Get Around Rome

Getting around Rome is easier than it looks, and in many cases, the best way is also the simplest.

Walk as Much as Possible: Rome is a walking city. Many of the main attractions are close to each other, and walking allows you to discover hidden streets, small churches, and unexpected ruins along the way. Some of my favorite moments in Rome came from simply wandering without a plan.
Use Public Transportation When Needed: Rome has buses, trams, and a metro system. The metro is fast and useful for longer distances (for example, getting to the Vatican), but it’s limited compared to other European cities. Buses cover more areas, though they can be slow during rush hours. I used to wait 30 minutes for a bus and realized walking was way faster than catching a bus…
Skip Renting a Car: Driving in Rome is stressful, traffic is heavy, and parking is difficult. A car is not recommended unless you’re leaving the city for day trips.
Taxis & Ride Apps: Official taxis are white and metered. They’re convenient late at night or when you’re tired after a long day of sightseeing. Ride-hailing apps are also available, but walking and public transport are usually enough.

What to Eat in Rome

Rome is not only a feast for the eyes, but also for the stomach. Between sightseeing stops, make sure you leave enough time to enjoy the city’s incredible food scene — simple, comforting, and full of flavor. Here are my 3 favorites addresses:

Giolitti: If you love gelato, Giolitti is a must. Located near the Pantheon, it’s one of the most famous gelaterias in Rome — and for good reason. The gelato is rich, creamy, and intensely flavored. Perfect for a sweet break while exploring the historic center.

Pasta In Corso: Pasta In Corso is a small, casual pasta spot that’s affordable but incredibly delicious. It’s ideal for a quick lunch or dinner when you want something satisfying without spending too much time or money. Simple Roman pasta done right.
Pasta Imperiale: Another favorite of mine is Pasta Imperiale. The portions are generous, the flavors are bold, and it’s a great place to try classic Roman pasta dishes. If you’re craving a comforting plate of pasta after a long day of walking, this is the place to go.

Eating in Rome doesn’t need to be complicated — good ingredients, simple recipes, and enjoying every bite are what truly matter.

When Is the Best Time to Visit Rome?

The best time to visit Rome in my opinion is spring (April–May) and early fall (September–October).

During these months, the weather is pleasant, warm but not too hot, and the crowds are more manageable compared to peak summer. It’s ideal for walking, sightseeing, and enjoying outdoor piazzas without feeling overwhelmed.

Summer (June–August) is vibrant but very hot and crowded, especially in July and August. I visited Rome in July, and while the city was lively and unforgettable, the heat and crowds were intense. If you visit in summer, plan early mornings and late evenings for sightseeing.

Winter (November–February) is the quietest time. While some days can be chilly, Rome is still beautiful, and you’ll enjoy fewer tourists and shorter lines at major attractions.

No matter the season, Rome always has its magic — but spring and early fall offer the best balance of weather, atmosphere, and comfort!

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