Last Updated on December 5, 2024 by Lauren Belzer
Unless you’ve been living under a rock, you’re probably aware that the Eternal City of Rome is full of history and endless things to do. During our stay in Rome in 2019, we were lucky to explore quite a few of the city’s treasures, but there is so much more to Rome than just the well-known structures. I’ve compiled a list of places to go, things to see, foods to eat, and more so you can enjoy your first (or next) trip to the beautiful city of Rome!
While I am not a local and many of the things we did or saw were on the touristy side, these things made our trip to Rome incredibly memorable, so I wanted to share them with you!
Visit the Colosseum & Roman Forum
The Colosseum is one of, if not, the most important and recognizable landmarks in Rome and Italy. When you see pictures of it, you can likely gather that it’s a big place…but when you’re standing inside and walking around, you truly realize just how massive it is. There are so many cool artifacts throughout The Colosseum that you will learn about if you go on a guided tour, but here is a cool random fact that I held on to during our visit:
In the royal box, where the royal family and other important people sat, they would never be looking directly into the sun no matter the time of day. This is because the sun would rise and set on the right and left of them and during the day it would be overhead, so they were always shaded.
If you choose to take a guided tour, I recommend booking a private tour of the Colosseum and the Roman Forum. You’ll typically get to skip lines with your guide, and you won’t be a part of a giant, overwhelming tour group. It is more expensive, yes, but highly worth it! Plus, with a private tour, you can ask as many questions as you want to get the most out of your Roman history lesson without being the “annoying” one in the group.
See the Trevi Fountain
Tucked away in the city center, the Trevi Fountain is a masterpiece of Baroque architecture. While it can get crowded, it’s worth battling the crowds to admire the intricate sculptures and toss a coin into the fountain. Tradition says it’s for good luck and a return visit to Rome! Take some time to appreciate the craftsmanship and beauty of this iconic landmark before moving on to your next stop.
Suppose you’re interested in having your own Lizzie Maguire moment without crowds. In that case, there are two things you can do to get a photo with limited people in the background: visit Rome in an off-season or wake up with the sun and head down to the Trevi Fountain early in the morning for some stunning sunrise lighting and limited people in your way!
Go to Piazza Navona
Piazza Navona is a lively square that buzzes with activity day and night. Grab a gelato from one of the nearby vendors and take a seat to people-watch, or admire the fountains and statues in the square. While it’s a popular tourist destination, it’s also a favorite spot for locals to gather and relax, making it a great place to soak up the atmosphere of daily life in Rome.
Eat Cacio e Pepe
Be sure to try cacio e pepe during your visit, my personal favorite authentic Roman dish. This simple yet delicious pasta is made of delicious pecorino cheese and cracked black pepper, and it’s a favorite among locals and visitors alike. Head to a trattoria or osteria to sample this classic dish, and pair it with a glass of wine for the perfect Italian meal.
Go to the Pantheon
The Pantheon is one of Rome’s most well-preserved ancient buildings, and it’s definitely worth a visit. It’s hard not to marvel at the impressive dome! Take a moment to appreciate the architectural genius behind its construction, it’s truly incredible. While it may not take long to explore, the Pantheon offers a fascinating glimpse into the city’s past and is sure to leave a lasting impression.
Hang Out on the Spanish Steps
The Spanish Steps are a popular gathering spot in Rome, offering fantastic views of the city. While they can get crowded, especially during the peak tourist season, they’re still worth a visit. Climb to the top for panoramic views of Rome and take some time to relax and enjoy the atmosphere before continuing to your next stop.
Go to the Vatican & See the Museums
A trip to Rome wouldn’t be complete without visiting the Vatican. While technically a different “country,” and yes, you need your passport to enter, Vatican City is right within Rome’s city limits. The Vatican can be overwhelming due to its size and crowds, but it’s worth the effort to see some of the world’s most famous art and architecture. Be sure to visit the Vatican Museums, and consider booking a guided tour to make the most of your visit. Do not miss the Sistine Chapel!
Visit St. Peter’s Basilica
St. Peter’s Basilica is one of the largest and most impressive churches in the world, and it’s a must-see for anyone visiting Rome. Take some time to admire the breathtaking architecture and stunning artworks inside, including Michelangelo’s iconic Pietà. While it can get crowded, especially during peak tourist season, it’s still worth a visit. It is full of some of the richest history in the world.
Enjoy Aperitivo at a Rooftop Bar
After a day of sightseeing, unwind with an aperitivo at one of Rome’s rooftop bars. These trendy spots offer fantastic views of the city and are the perfect place to relax and enjoy a drink as the sun sets. Whether you prefer a classic Aperol Spritz or something more adventurous, you’re sure to find something to suit your tastes at one of these stylish bars.
Some hotels even have their own rooftop spots, like Sina Bernini Bristol, so consider this when plotting where you’ll stay in Rome!
Rome is a city that offers something for everyone, whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or simply someone looking to soak up the atmosphere of this vibrant metropolis. By visiting these top attractions and exploring some of the city’s lesser-known gems, you’ll be able to make the most of your time in Rome and create memories that will last a lifetime. So grab your map and your walking shoes, and get ready to explore all that this incredible city has to offer!