25 Best Things to Do in Rome & Places to Visit

Rome, sweet Rome. The city with some of the world’s best-preserved buildings, papal basilicas, and world-renowned museums with some of the most famous paintings and ancient sculptures in history.

If you’re planning a trip to Rome, you’re in for a treat. There are endless things to see and do in this bustling city, making it difficult to narrow down the list!

From wandering the cobblestone streets while admiring the Italian-style architecture and impressive churches to sampling some of Italy’s best wine and food, these are sure to be your favorites.

So without further ado, here are the best things to see in Rome and attractions to visit that’ll have you living la dolce vita.

TL;DR

• Most significant landmark – The Colosseum
• Best park – Villa Borghese
• Best free activity – Piazza Navona
• The best activity for kids – Trevi Fountain
• The best activity for adults – Roman Catacombs
• Best food – Gelato and Pasta Carbonara
• Best nightlife – Ice Club
• Best all-around accommodation – Hotel Pacific

Best Things to Do in Rome & Places to Visit

1. Trevi Fountain

Address: Piazza di Trevi, 00187 Roma RM, Italy

First up on the list, and one of the most iconic symbols of Rome, is the Trevi Fountain, known as the Fontana di Trevi in Italian. It is the largest Baroque fountain in the city and the most famous fountain in the world.

The fountain was designed by Nicola Salvi and completed in 1762 and is located in the Piazza di Trevi, which is one of Rome’s most popular tourist destinations. The fountain is the centerpiece of the piazza and is a must-see for anyone visiting Rome.

The fountain depicts Neptune, the god of the sea, surrounded by mermaids and tritons. Trevi Fountain is also one of the best places to visit in Rome with kids, due to its size, beauty, and backstory. First, they’ll love throwing a coin in and making a wish. One legend has it that if you throw a coin into the fountain, you are ensured a return trip to Rome.

Also, they will love the story behind the “mouth of truth”, which is legend that if you put your hand in the mouth and tell a lie, the mouth will bite your hand off. The legend was immortalized in the film Roman Holiday in 1953 when Gregory Peck and Audrey Hepburn’s characters visited this monument.

Since this is such a popular tourist destination for those in Rome looking to get a perfect selfie, it can get quite crowded. The best time to visit the fountain is first thing in the morning or later at night when the crowds have died down a bit.

Pro tip: For an unobscured view of the fountain from above, head to the hotel located directly across the fountain. For about 10 euros, they’ll take you up to the rooftop bar of the hotel, where you can see the fountain in all its glory without all the crowds!

2. Vatican Museums

Address: 00120 Città del Vaticano

Another world-renowned attraction in Rome are the Vatican Museums. The museum complex is made up of over 54 galleries and covers over 9 miles.

Together, the museums house some of the most famous artworks in the world, including both the Sistine Chapel and the Raphael Rooms, as well as the unfinished Leonardo da Vinci painting, St. Jerome in The Wilderness, among many, many other works of modern era and contemporary art.

The Sistine Chapel is home to the world-famous frescoes by Michelangelo, which were painted onto the ceiling between 1508 and 1512. For those who want to admire the art, and take a guided tour among the Vatican Gardens, it is recommended to book a tour in advance to avoid the long lines.

The Vatican Museums are located in Vatican City, which is the smallest country in the world located within Rome and is also the headquarters of the Catholic Church. The best way to get here is to take a bus or taxi from the city center of Rome. During your visit, you can admire St. Peter’s Square, and you will need to go through security before entering the museum complex.

The museums are open Monday to Saturday from 9 am to 6 pm, with the last entry at 4 pm. Be sure to get there early to have enough time to explore the museums, there is a ton to see!

3. Piazza di Spagna

Address: Piazza di Spagna, 00187 Roma RM, Italy

The Piazza di Spagna, or Spanish Plaza, is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Rome. The Piazza di Spagna is located in the center of Rome and is a short walk from many of the city’s other popular tourist destinations. The plaza is a great place to start your exploration of Rome, as it is close to many of the city’s famous landmarks.

The square is also home to the beautiful Spanish Steps, which were built in the 18th century. The steps connect the Spanish Plaza to the church of Trinita dei Monti and are a popular place to take a break and people-watch.

The Spanish Steps are open to the public 24 hours a day and are free to enter. However, the steps can get very crowded, so it is best to visit early in the morning or later at night when the crowds have died down.

Pro tip: If you’re looking for a less crowded spot to relax in the Spanish Plaza, head to the left of the Spanish Steps where you’ll find the beautiful Fountain of the Naiads. This fountain is often overlooked by tourists, so it’s a great place to relax and take in the beauty of Rome.

4. The Pantheon

Address: Piazza della Rotonda, 00186 Roma RM, Italy

The Pantheon is one of the most well-preserved ancient Roman landmarks in the world. The Pantheon was built in 27 BC by Marcus Agrippa, and it is one of the best-preserved ancient Roman buildings. It’s a massive structure, with a large central dome and an impressive portico of granite columns.

It was originally built as a temple to all the gods of ancient Rome, but it has since been converted into a church. The Pantheon is a must-see Rome monument for anyone interested in ancient history or architecture.

The Pantheon is free to enter, and it is open Monday to Saturday from 9 am to 7:30 pm and Sunday from 9 am to 6 pm. The best time to visit the Pantheon is during the day when the sunlight streams in through the oculus, or hole in the center of the dome.

As one of the most popular tourist destinations in Italy, the Pantheon can get very crowded, so be sure to go early in the day to avoid the crowds.

See Related: Best Day Trips from Rome, Italy

5. The Colosseum

Address: Piazza del Colosseo, 1, 00184 Roma RM, Italy

The Colosseum is one of the world’s most ancient sites, iconic landmarks and is one of the most popular Rome attractions in the city. The Colosseum was built between 72 and 80 AD and is the largest Roman amphitheater in the world.

The Colosseum was used for gladiator fights, public executions, and other entertainment on the arena floor. Ancient Romans of all social classes would come to watch the events at the Colosseum. The Colosseum is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is one of the most photographed landmarks in Rome.

The Colosseum is open Monday to Sunday from 8:30 am to 4:30 pm. It is important to note that the last entry is at 3:30 pm, so be sure to arrive early! Since it is such a popular tourist destination, the Colosseum can get very crowded. We recommend visiting the Colosseum as early in the day as possible to avoid the crowds.

You can also book a skip-the-line ticket online in advance, so you can tour the Colosseum and arena floor without having to wait in line! This combo skip-the-line ticket package includes no-wait entry to the Colosseum, the Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill. It’s a great option if you want to see all of the ancient world sights in one day.

Pro tip: If you want to avoid the crowds at the Colosseum altogether, we recommend visiting at night! While you won’t be able to go inside after 3:30 pm, you can still walk around the outside of the Colosseum and take in its impressive size. The golden lights gleaming from the inside of the Colosseum make for a beautiful photo opportunity. Just be sure to dress warmly as it can get chilly at night.

6. St. Peter’s Basilica

Address: Piazza San Pietro, 00120 Città del Vaticano

One of the most famous Rome landmarks is St. Peter’s Basilica, the largest church in the world. The basilica is situated in St. Peter’s Square in Vatican City and was built between 1506 and 1626. This Renaissance-style church was built on the site of St. Peter’s tomb, which lies beneath the altar.

St. Peter’s Basilica is home to many famous works of art, including Michelangelo’s Pieta. The interior of the basilica is decorated with beautiful frescoes, mosaics, and sculptures. Visitors can even climb to the top of the dome for a breathtaking view of Rome.

The basilica is free to enter, but there is a dress code that visitors must follow. Women must have their shoulders and knees covered, and men must have their shoulders covered.

The basilica is open daily from 7 am to 7 pm. We recommend visiting early in the day to avoid crowds, especially during summer. Keep in mind that Vatican City is its own country, so you will need to go through security before entering St. Peter’s Basilica.

See Related: How Much is a Trip to Italy: Average Cost Per Day

7. Roman Forum

Address: Via della Salara Vecchia, 5/6, 00186 Roma RM, Italy

Another one of the top things to do in Rome includes exploring the Roman Forum. This was the center of ancient Rome, and it was used for political, economic, and religious purposes, and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Historians believe that the first use of this ancient open-air forum was around 500 B.C., whereat it served as a marketplace.

The Roman Forum continued to be used until the 4th century A.D for political and social gatherings. Many famous landmarks are located within the Roman Forum, including the Arch of Septimius Severus and the Temple of Saturn.

Visitors can explore the ruins of ancient temples, basilicas, and other buildings. The ruins are an excellent place to learn about the history of Rome and to imagine what life was like in ancient times. Seeing the ruins for the first time was truly inspirational for me and was like instantly being transported back in time.

The ruins are open Monday to Saturday from 8:30 am to 7:15 pm. You can explore the site yourself on a self-guided tour, or opt for one of the amazing guided tours available where you’ll learn the incredible history that took place here. Keep in mind that it can get very crowded, so we recommend visiting early in the day to avoid crowds.

8. Piazza Navona

Address: Piazza Navona, 00186 Roma RM, Italy

Piazza Navona is a bustling square located in the center of Rome, featuring incredible restaurants and shops. This beautiful piazza was built on the site of a stadium that was used for Ancient Roman athletic games and is home to three fountains, including the famous Fountain of Four Rivers.

The fountain was designed by Gian Lorenzo Bernini and completed in 1651. It features four statues that represent the major rivers of the four continents: the Nile, the Ganges, the Danube, and the Rio de la Plata. The other fountains located in the square are the Fountain of Neptune and the Fountain of the Moor.

There are also several iconic restaurants and cafes located around the piazza, making it a great place to relax and people watch. Check out the nearby restaurant Ginger Sapori e Saluto, which serves delicious Italian food with a modern twist. They serve healthy breakfast, lunch, and dinner options, as well as a variety of drinks.

We recommend visiting during the day so that you can fully enjoy the beauty of this historic piazza. If you want to enjoy a romantic walk at night, visit the square in the evening (or dusk) when the fountains are illuminated.

See Related: Best Restaurants in Italy

9. Palatine Hill

Address: 00186 Rome, Metropolitan City of Rome, Italy

Located just next door to the Roman Forum is Palatine Hill, another must-see attraction in Rome. The ruins of this area are the centermost of the seven hills of Rome and is the most ancient part of the city.

Palatine Hill was once home to some of Rome’s wealthiest citizens, and it is now one of the most popular tourist attractions in the city. Visitors can explore the ruins of ancient palaces, temples, and homes. This is also a great place to enjoy stunning views of the city from the top.

In the many times that I’ve visited Rome, I can honestly say that the views from here are some of the most beautiful in the city. Climbing up to the top of this hill to catch sunset views over the city after a day of exploring the nearby Colosseum and Roman Forum is hands-down one of my best memories from Rome. There’s just something so magical about this place.

The ruins are open daily from 8:30 am to 7:15 pm and can be explored on your own at your own pace. Admission tickets also includes entry to the forum, so we recommend visiting both sites in one day. I recommend visiting in the afternoon so that you can watch the sunset over Rome from the top of the hill.

10. Baths of Caracalla

Address: Viale delle Terme di Caracalla, 00153 Roma RM, Italy

The Baths of Caracalla are some of the most well-preserved ruins in Rome. These ancient Roman baths were built between 206 and 216 AD and could accommodate up to 8,000 people at a time!

The Baths of Caracalla are one of the largest and most impressive Roman ruins in the city. At their peak, the baths were used for public bathing, socializing, and relaxing. It was commonplace for Roman citizens to visit the baths daily. The Baths of Caracalla were in use until around the 530s AD, when they were finally abandoned and fell to ruin.

The Baths of Caracalla are now a popular tourist attraction in Rome. Visitors can explore the ruins of the ancient baths, including the gymnasium, library, and changing rooms.

There is also a small museum on site that contains artifacts that were found during the excavation of the baths. The Baths of Caracalla are open daily from 9:00 am to one hour before sunset.

I recommend visiting early in the day to avoid the crowds and heat. Trust me, you do not want to be exploring ancient ruins in the scorching Roman heat!

See Related: Best Travel Books for Italy

11. Piazza del Popolo

Address: Piazza del Popolo, 00187 Roma RM, Italy

Translating to “the People’s Square” in English, Piazza del Popolo is one of Rome’s most iconic squares. Part of Rome’s city center, this large piazza is home to the ancient Egyptian obelisk, the Flaminio Obelisk, the churches of Santa Maria del Popolo, Santa Maria dei Miracoli and Santa Maria in Montesanto, and the Porta del Popolo, one of the gates into the city of Rome.

Piazza del Popolo is a popular gathering place for locals and tourists alike. The piazza also hosts several events throughout the year, including concerts, festivals, and markets.

One of my favorite things to do in Rome is people-watching from a cafe in Piazza del Popolo. This square is always full of life! I also love exploring the church of Santa Maria del Popolo, which is one of the most beautiful churches in Rome located on the north side of the Piazza.

Piazza del Popolo is open 24 hours a day and is also centrally located, making a stroll through square one of the best free things to do in Rome.

12. Castel Sant’Angelo

Address: Lungotevere Castello, 50, 00193 Roma RM, Italy

Originally built in the 2nd century, Castel Sant’Angelo is a towering cylindrical castle that sits on the banks of the Tiber River. This castle was originally built as a mausoleum for Roman Emperor Hadrian and his family.

In the 14th century, Castel Sant’Angelo was converted into a fortress and then later used as a prison. Today, this castle is a museum that is open to the public.

Visitors can explore the museum at their own pace, or they can take a guided tour. The museum contains many artifacts from the castle’s long history, as well as exhibitions on the prison, Vatican City, and more.

Explore the castle’s ramparts for breathtaking views of Rome, or take a walk through the underground tunnels that once served as a secret escape route for the Pope! This Rome attraction is rich in history and makes for a fascinating visit.

This castle has a fascinating story and is one of the most unique places to visit in Rome. I recommend buying a ticket in advance online to avoid the lines at the ticket office – like most attractions in Rome, Castel Sant’Angelo can get pretty crowded.

See Related: Best Car Museums in Italy

13. Basilica Papale di Santa Maria Maggiore

Address: Piazza di Santa Maria Maggiore, 00100 Roma RM, Italy

It’s no surprise that there are several beautiful churches and cathedrals scattered throughout the ancient, catholic city of Rome. One of my favorites is the Basilica Papale di Santa Maria Maggiore, which is one of the four major basilicas in Rome.

This church is also known as “Our Lady of the Snows” because legend has it that snow fell on the site of the church in August of 352, leading to the construction of this basilica.

The Basilica Papale di Santa Maria Maggiore is truly a sight to behold. The exterior of the church is adorned with beautiful mosaics, and the interior is just as stunning. This basilica also contains some important works of art, including a painting by Raphael.

Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this is one of the most important and historic churches in Rome, it’s know as one of the Seven Pilgrim Churches of Rome.

Visiting the Basilica Papale di Santa Maria Maggiore is free, but there is a small fee of about 3 euros to enter the museum. Definitely worth the price.

14. Galleria Borghese and Villa Borghese Garden

If you’re searching for things to do in Rome with kids or need a break from endless museums and hundred-year-old ruins, consider spending a day at Villa Borghese. This huge park is one of the largest parks in Rome, and it’s a great place to relax, take a walk, or have a picnic.

The park also contains several museums, including the Galleria Borghese (Borghese Gallery), which houses an impressive collection of art. The park is also home to an impressive garden, a lake, and several monuments. The Villa Borghese Gardens spread out across over 860,000 square feet, making them some of the largest gardens in Rome!

Villa Borghese is huge, so there’s plenty of space to explore, and the museums and monuments provide a great opportunity to learn about Roman history and culture. If you’re traveling with kids, they’ll love spending a day at the park.

The park is located in the center of Rome, just a few steps away from the Spanish Steps and Piazza del Popolo. You can easily pop over to the park for a few hours or spend an entire day exploring everything it has to offer.

See Related: Italy vs Greece: What’s the Difference?

15. St. Clement Basilica

Address: Via Labicana, 95, 00184 Roma RM, Italy

Basilica di San Clemente al Laterano, or St. Clement’s Basilica, is a church located in Rome. This basilica is particularly interesting because it sits on top of two other churches – one from the 12th century and one from the 4th century. That’s right, three churches in one!

A visit to St. Clement’s Basilica is a great way to learn about the history of Christianity in Rome. The 12th-century church was built on top of the ruins of a 4th-century church, which was built on top of a Roman house from the 1st century.

This makes St. Clement’s Basilica one of the most layered and interesting sites in Rome! St. Clement’s Basilica was built in honor of Pope Clement I, and it contains several important works of art.

The basilica is free to enter, and there is also a small museum on site. The museum contains several artifacts from the different churches that have been located on the site, as well as some Roman ruins.

16. Hadrian’s Villa

Address: Largo Marguerite Yourcenar, 1, 00010 Tivoli RM, Italy

When it comes to what to do in Rome, a visit to Hadrian’s Villa will give you a first hand perspective on what it was like to live in the life as a Roman Emperor. This archaeological site was once the private retreat of Roman Emperor Hadrian, and it’s now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Hadrian’s Villa is located in the town of Tivoli, about 30 minutes outside of Rome. The villa was built in the 2nd century AD, and it covers a vast area of over 120 hectares. The villa was intended as a retreat for Hadrian and his court, and it was designed to mimic the landscapes of different regions of the Roman Empire.

Today, visitors can explore the ruins of Hadrian’s Villa, including the baths, temples, and gardens and there is also a museum on site, which contains many artifacts that were found at the villa.

To visit the villa from Rome, you’ll need to take a bus to Tivoli and an eventual shuttle service that runs to the villa. If you’re looking for a more stress-free visit to this historic landmark, hop on a guided tour of Hadrian’s Villa that includes transportation from Rome.

See Related: Top Reasons to Travel to Italy

17. Day trip to Pompeii, the Amalfi Coast, or Tuscany

While Rome is a beautiful city and there’s plenty to see and do, sometimes it’s nice to get out of the city and explore the surrounding area. If you have time during your trip, I highly recommend taking a day trip to one of the following destinations: Pompeii, the Amalfi Coast, or Tuscany.

Pompeii is an ancient city that was destroyed by a volcanic eruption in 79 AD. The city was preserved thanks to the layers of ash that covered it, and today visitors can explore the ruins of Pompeii. It’s a fascinating place to visit and learn about Roman life.

The Amalfi Coast is a stretch of coastline along the Mediterranean Sea, and it’s one of the most beautiful places in Italy. The towns of Amalfi, Positano, and Ravello are particularly lovely, and visitors can enjoy stunning views, great food, and plenty of shopping.

Tuscany is a region in central Italy known for its beautiful rolling hills and vineyards. The town of Florence is located in Tuscany, and it’s home to some of the most famous art museums in the world. If you’re interested in art or history, a day trip to Florence is a must.

All of these destinations can be reached by train from Rome, and there are also plenty of tours available if you don’t want to do the planning yourself, this guided group tour will take you to both Pompeii and the beautiful city of Positano on the Amalfi Coast. You’ll have plenty of time to explore both destinations, and you’ll also get to enjoy lunch in Positano.

If you’re looking for a more active day trip, this guided one-day tour in Tuscany is a great option. You’ll get to explore the Tuscan countryside, visit a winery, and enjoy a traditional Italian lunch. This is a great way to experience the best of what Tuscany has to offer.

18. Basilica of Our Lady in Trastevere

Address: Piazza di Santa Maria in Trastevere, 00153 Roma RM, Italy

The Basilica of Santa Maria in Trastevere is said to be one of the oldest (if not the oldest) churches in Rome. The church was built in the 3rd century, and it’s been a place of Christian worship ever since. The church is located in the Trastevere district, which is one of the most charming and atmospheric neighborhoods in Rome.

The Basilica of Santa Maria in Trastevere is known for its beautiful mosaics, which date back to the 12th century. The mosaics depict scenes from the life of Mary, and they are absolutely stunning. Visitors can also explore the crypt, which contains the tomb of Pope Callixtus I. An hour spent exploring this museum is a must for anyone interested in Roman history or art.

The Basilica of Santa Maria in Trastevere is open daily, and there is no entry fee. Mass is held several times a day, and the church is also a popular place to visit for confessions and spiritual guidance.

See Related: Fun & Best Things to do in Ravello, Italy

19. Take a walking food tour

If you’re anything like me, food is one of the main reasons you travel. And Rome is an incredible place to eat! The food is absolutely delicious, and there are enough restaurants and cafes in Rome to last you for an eternity. Hey, they don’t call it the Eternal City for nothing!

One of the best ways to experience the food of Rome is by taking a walking food tour. A walking food tour of Rome will take you to some of the best eateries in Rome, and you’ll get to try things like freshly made pasta, gelato, and Roman street food. You’ll get to try all sorts of traditional Roman dishes, and you’ll also learn about the history and culture of food in Rome.

Not only will you have a chance to try popular Italian dishes like pizza and gelato, but you’ll also have the opportunity to learn about some of Italy’s lesser-known dishes. This is a great way to get an insider’s look at the food scene in Rome, and it’s a lot of fun!

Food tours are a great way to get an authentic and delicious taste of Rome and experience the food of Rome like a local! And for a more hands-on experience, consider taking a cooking class. You’ll learn how to make some of Rome’s most popular dishes, and you’ll get to eat what you make.

See Related: Best Tours in Italy

20. Roman Catacombs

Address: Via Appia Antica, 110/126, 00179 Roma RM, Italy

For a spooky and unique experience, consider visiting the Roman Catacombs. The catacombs are a series of underground tunnels and burial chambers that were used by the ancient Romans.

The catacombs are located outside of Rome, and they’re a great place to visit if you’re interested in Roman history or archaeology. The Roman Catacombs are most notable for the Crypt of Popes, which contains the remains of several Roman popes from the 2nd to 4th centuries.

The best way to see the catacombs is on a guided group tour. Tours typically last around 2 hours, and they include a visit to the Catacomb of Callixtus, which is the largest catacomb in Rome. The Catacomb of Callixtus contains the remains of over half a million people, making it one of the largest burial sites in the world!

Visiting the Roman Catacombs is a great way to learn about Roman history and culture. It’s also a great way to get away from the hustle and bustle of Rome and explore some of the city’s more hidden and unusual attractions.

Be sure to book a tour in advance – this place is popular and spots fill up quickly!

See Related: Best Things to Do in Bolzano, Italy

21. Piazza Venezia

Address: Piazza Venezia, 00186 Roma RM, Italy

Another popular plaza in Rome is Piazza Venezia. This plaza is located in the city center of Rome, and it’s one of the most popular tourist destinations in the city. Piazza Venezia is home to several famous landmarks, including the Victor Emmanuel II Monument and the Palazzo Venezia.

The Victor Emmanuel II Monument is a large and impressive white marble structure that was built in honor of the first king of a unified Italy. The Palazzo Venezia is a beautiful 15th-century palace that now houses a museum.

Piazza Venezia is filled with Roman history or architecture. It’s also a great place to people watch and take in the sights and sounds of Rome. If you’re visiting Rome during the summer, be sure to visit Piazza Venezia at night – the plaza is beautifully lit up and it’s a great place to enjoy the evening atmosphere of Rome.

There are also several chic cafes and restaurants located around Piazza Venezia, so it’s a great place to grab a bite to eat or have a drink. Piazza Venezia is one of the best places to try traditional Italian food, restaurants La Cabana and Zerosettantacinque are two of the best.

22. Ice Club

Address: Via della Madonna dei Monti, 18/19, 00184 Roma RM, Italy

When it comes to nightlife, the Romans know how to party! There are a lot of great bars and clubs located around Rome, and Ice Club is one of the best. This club is located in the Monti district, and it’s a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. Ice Club is known for its amazing cocktails and its cool, trendy vibe.

This club is equipped with frosty decor and even has furniture made out of ice. One of the best things about Ice Club is that it’s open daily, so you can party all night long any time of the week. The club also has a great selection of music, and the DJs always keep the crowd dancing.

It’s also located near other popular bars and clubs, so you can easily bar-hop your way around Rome. I recommend also checking out Yellow Bar and Spirito Divino while you’re in the area.

See Related: Best Places to Visit in Northern Italy

23. Take a walking tour of Centro Storico

Address: Rome City Center

One of my personal favorite things to do in any city in Italy, is simply wander the streets and take in the sights, chaos, history, and of course, the smells of the amazing food. Centro Storico (historical center in English) in Rome is exactly that, it’s an exploration of the sights, sounds and smells of the city’s past.

Stroll through its cobblestone streets, beginning at Piazza Popolo, to discover hidden gems around every corner. Travel down three major streets extending from Piazza Venezia and the Colosseum before venturing off onto dozens of avenues and byways.

Marvel at Baroque-style churches and shop along centro storico’s boutiques offering unique wares—from handmade wood carvings to luxury jewelry. Don’t forget to peep into ancient private courtyards, where locals live out their own version of La Dolce Vita. Take some time to follow in the footsteps of Romans for a truly unforgettable experience.

24. Ascend Janiculan Hill for panoramic views of Rome

Address: via Garibaldi, Salita di Sant’Onofrio, 00165 Roma RM, Italy

The Janiculum, or Janiculan Hill, offers the best views of Rome. Climb the long and rocky road up the mountain and be awestruck by the panoramic views of some of the city’s most majestic sites. Admire the Spanish Steps from up high, see the Palace Venezia in all its glory, and take a second to appreciate being in such an amazing city. I love coming here to watch the sunset cast over the city.

As night falls, lovers gather around this sacred spot for an enchanting moment together and street sellers attempt to provide you with glowing tchotches. But don’t lose sight of why you are there- for unforgettable sweeping views no other hill in Rome can provide.

25. Visit Capitoline Hill

Address: Piazza del Campidoglio, 00186 Roma RM, Italy

Discover the historic Capitoline Hill, the proud home of two renowned public art collections found in Rome. The Capitoline Museum is the star of Capitoline Hill and has been established since 1471. The museum hosts a variety of iconic sculptures, notably Praxiteles’s 4th-century BC masterpiece, Boy with Thorns, crafted from Bronze.

Standing at 4.44 ft tall, it can be considered as a small-scale form of art history itself. For something more contemporary, check out Gian L. Bernardin’s 17th century Medusa sculpture heads – an example of Baroque sculpting perfection. This area is also one of the most ancient sites in all of Rome, making it a must see for first-time visitors to the Eternal City.

Where to Stay in Rome, Italy

If you’re still looking for places to stay to build out our Rome itinerary, here are our top picks based on type of accommodation.

Budget Hotels

Hotel IMPERATORI

Address: Via Guido Gonella 15, Tiburtino, 00156 Rome, Italy

This hotel is located just a few steps away from a metro stop connecting you to the Colosseum in just 15 minutes. The rooms at Hotel IMPERATORI are equipped with air conditioning, a TV, and a private bathroom. This hotel also offers free Wi-Fi access to guests.

Ginevra Palace Hotel

Address: Via San Giovanni Della Croce 35, Aurelio, 00166 Rome, Italy

The rooms at Ginevra Palace Hotel are spacious and bright, and they come equipped with air conditioning, a TV, and a private bathroom. This hotel also has a bar where guests can enjoy a drink, and free Wi-Fi access is available throughout the property. Guests here can enjoy a generous breakfast buffet and can reach Rome’s Fiumicino airport in 20 minutes by car.

Mid-Range Hotels

Hotel Pacific Roma

Address: Viale Delle Medaglie D’ Oro, 51, Trionfale, 00136 Rome, Italy

Hotel Pacific is a modern and stylish hotel located in Rome’s Trionfale district. This hotel is a great option for travelers who want to be close to all of the action but also want to stay in a more quiet and relaxed area.

The rooms at Hotel Pacific are spacious and comfortable, and they come equipped with all of the amenities you need for a relaxing stay. The Hotel Pacific even offers a continental breakfast included in the price of your stay.

Hotel Twenty One

Address: Via Cola Di Rienzo 23, Vaticano Prati, 00195 Rome, Italy

This ultra-modern hotel is located in Rome’s Vaticano Prati district, and it’s a great option for travelers who want to be close to all of the action. The rooms at Hotel Twenty One are sleek and stylish, and they come equipped with all of the amenities you need for a comfortable stay. The hotel even has a rooftop terrace with stunning views of Rome!

Luxury Hotels

Hotel Giolli Nazionale

Address: Via Nazionale 69, Rione Monti, 00184 Rome, Italy 

Want a luxury hotel near all the action in Rome and have a bit of extra money to spend? The Giolli Nazionale is your perfect option! This hotel is situated on Via Nazionale, one of Rome’s most popular shopping streets.

It’s also just a short walk from some of the city’s top attractions, including the Spanish Steps and the Trevi Fountain. The hotel is beautifully decorated and the rooms are spacious and modern.

Guests can enjoy free Wi-Fi, a flat-screen TV, and a minibar in their room. The hotel also has a fitness center and a rooftop terrace with stunning views of Rome.

The Hoxton, Rome

Address: Largo Benedetto Marcello, 220, 00198 Rome, Italy

The Hoxton, Rome is a luxury hotel that’s perfect for travelers who want to be in the heart of the action. This hotel is located on Largo Benedetto Marcello, just a short walk from Rome’s most popular tourist attractions.

The rooms are chic and modern, and they come equipped with free Wi-Fi, a flat-screen TV, and a minibar. The hotel also has a rooftop bar with stunning views of Rome, and it’s just a short walk from some of the city’s best restaurants and bars.

Vacation Rentals

For a long-term stay in Rome, it may be more cost-efficient (and certainly more convenient) to opt for an Airbnb or long-term rental rather than a hotel. Average rates for a long-term rental will vary, depending on the location and size of the rental, but they start at around $120-220 per night.

Here are a few options as the best vacation home rentals in Rome:

Cozy Vatican Townhome

This stylish and modern one-bedroom townhome is located in the heart of Rome, just a 12-minute walk from the Vatican Museum. It’s equipped with a refrigerator, coffee maker, and toaster, and there’s also air conditioning and a hair dryer for guests to use. The home is a short walk to Ottaviano, San Pietro, and Musei Vaticani Stations where guests can easily hop on and explore other neighborhoods of Rome.

St. Peter Garden Apartment

This bright and spacious two-bedroom garden apartment is located in the St. Peter’s neighborhood of Rome, just a 10-minute walk from the Vatican. The apartment has two bedrooms and can accommodate up to four guests. It comes equipped with air conditioning, fast wifi, and a fully stocked kitchen. Guests can enjoy the garden view from the comfort of their private patio.

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