Let's be honest: the Trevi Fountain, the Spanish Steps, and Vatican City should be on everyone's list. They're impressive, they're Rome, and you absolutely must see them. But here I'm sharing tips that go beyond that. These are the seven things I've done in Rome, or plan to do. Not because the other places aren't worth it, but because there's more.
Colosseum & Roman Forum. Feel the history
The Colosseum is vast, overwhelming, and busier than you might expect. But the Roman Forum next to it is where Rome truly gets under your skin. An entire open-air city, Roman ruins, temples, cobblestones that have been there for two thousand years. Walk slowly, look up at the Palatine Hill, and realize this was once the center of the world. Book your tickets for both online, because the line without a reservation is too long and a waste of your time.
Pantheon. The best-preserved ancient building
The Pantheon is nearly two thousand years old and still looks incredible. The oculus in the center of the dome; a nine-meter-wide opening to the sky, is the kind of architectural detail that stops you in your tracks. Free entry, right in the city, five minutes from Piazza Navona. Go early, as there's a line later in the day.
Castel Sant'Angelo. Views of Rome without the Colosseum crowds
Castel Sant'Angelo started as Emperor Hadrian's mausoleum and over the centuries became a fort, papal refuge, and prison. You feel that layered past as you walk up. On top, you have one of the finest views of Rome; the Tiber, the rooftops, St. Peter's in the background. Less crowded than the Colosseum, equally impressive.
Combine Rome with Umbria? We drove a route via Perugia, Lago Trasimeno, and Orvieto, wrapping up with two nights in Rome. A great tour for those who want to see the quieter side of Italy after all the Roman bustle.
Trastevere. The neighborhood that best preserves Rome
Trastevere was originally a working-class area where fishermen, craftsmen, and laborers lived, instead of cardinals and nobility. Narrow streets, ivy-covered facades, restaurants where people take their seats even at ten in the evening. Quiet enough to wander by day, lively enough in the evening to stay. Stroll without a plan, sit where it seems nice, and order what the table next to you has.
Here you'll find all my favorite boutique hotels in Trastevere.
Vespa Tour; Rome on a Scooter
A Vespa tour sounds more touristy than it is. Until you're on it, zipping through the hidden streets of Trastevere as a local guide shares insights you'd never find otherwise. The tour covers the Colosseum, Castel Sant'Angelo, Piazza Navona, and the Janiculum Hill; the highest point in Rome with views of the whole city. Choose to drive or ride along. Three hours, certified guide, and a way to experience Rome you'll never forget.
Bike Tour with a Dutch Guide. Rome in Three Hours with a Local
I did this myself, and it's really fun, especially with kids. A Dutch student living in Rome takes you on a three-hour journey through the main spots. But also past their personal favorites you won't find on any map. They know where to be and not to be, tell the most entertaining background stories without following a guide script, and pause long enough for photos. There's plenty of time to explore the spots you want to see inside. Tip: we had electric bikes (Rome is built on seven hills). If you've seen enough of the city, you can also do a 'via appia' bike tour. Then you head out of the city and off the beaten path.
View the bike tour with Dutch guide
Cooking Class; Make Pasta and Tiramisu with a Real Chef
Not a demonstration where you watch someone else cook. In this cooking class, you're at the countertop yourself, shoulder to shoulder with professional chefs, making two kinds of fresh pasta entirely by hand, from start to finish. Then, whip up your own tiramisu, the famous Italian dessert, and later eat what you've created at the table. The level is restaurant-quality, the atmosphere informal. One of the most enjoyable things you can do in Rome if you're in the mood for more than just highlights.
Seven Things to Do in Rome, for Those Looking Beyond the Obvious List
The Colosseum and the Roman Forum for history. The Pantheon for architecture. Castel Sant'Angelo for the views. Trastevere for the atmosphere. The Vespa tour for seeing Rome from a different perspective. The bike tour for understanding what you see. The cooking class for taking something home. 'What to do in Rome' isn't a question with one answer, but these are the seven things I'd choose myself.
Still looking for the best restaurants?
In my Google Maps guide, you'll find all my favorite hotspots (80+) neatly listed. From restaurants to wine bars to rooftops, places I've personally selected. So you only need to decide where to go first.
View the Mapped by Carole map of Rome
Frequently Asked Questions About What to Do in Rome
How many days do you need for Rome?
Three days is the minimum to see the main spots and still enjoy an evening in Trastevere. Four or five days gives you the flexibility to add a cooking class or tour without rushing.
Is Rome suitable for a city trip with children?
Yes, definitely. The Colosseum, the bike tour, and the cooking class are all suitable for kids. Trastevere works well for an evening stroll with an ice cream.
