The 27 greatest things to do in Rome

What is it? We’re going to assume you’ve already got an idea of this one: it’s the Colosseum, after all. Built between 72-80 AD, this is the largest amphitheatre in the world (holding 80,000 people back in the day), and seeing it up close is just about as cool as you can imagine. 

Why go? Local Romans used to come here to see violent gladiator battles or animal hunts, but now it’s a lot more peaceful. Once you get to the 5th level for that 360-degree view over the theatre, it’s pretty magical. Just make sure to book in advance to avoid long queues. 

🤫 Insider tip: The views are great, but make sure to book a visit to the recently opened arena floor to experience it the way the gladiators did.

What is it? Founded by Pope Julius II in the 16th century, the Vatican Museums house one of the largest and most important art collections in the world and is set across 54 galleries, courtyards and hallways. You’ll find thousands of ancient sculptures, works by Raphael and, of course, Michelangelo’s frescoes in the Sistine Chapel.

Time Out tip: If you have time and plan well in advance, book tickets to descend into the Vatican Necropolis, located beneath St. Peter’s Basilica, and the Vatican Gardens filled with fountains, flora and a replica of the Grotto devoted to Our Lady of Lourdes.

👀 Our take: ‘Book a late entry time and linger in the museum until nearly closing time. It’s oh-so worth it to be the last one under Michelangelo’s frescoes.’ 

What is it? Built in 125 AD by Emperor Hadrian, the Pantheon is one of the best preserved buildings from ancient times.

Why go? Its dome, measuring 142 feet in diameter, is the largest in the whole world, and its oculus (the central opening at the top of the dome) is a unique source of natural light and serves as a symbolic connection between the temple and the heavens. It’s an ancient marvel and a must-see in Rome. 

🤫 Insider tip: If you’re heading to the city during Pentecost weekend, you’re in for a treat – during Sunday Mass, tons of rose petals get dropped from the oculus to mark the occasion, and the sight is really something.

What is it? Rome is known as the city of fountains – there are over 2,000 throughout the city, both big and small – but none are grander than the Trevi Fountain. Commissioned by Pope Clement XII in the 18th century, this majestic work of Baroque art was carved out of Carrara marble and took 30 years to complete. The marvel features Oceanus, the god of the sea, sitting triumphantly atop a chariot pulled by seahorses at the center. On either side are Tritons, mythical sea creatures that resemble mermen, blowing into conch shells.

Why go? According to local legend, if you throw a coin over your shoulder into the Trevi Fountain, you’ll return to Rome again in your lifetime. Each year, millions of coins are tossed into the fountain: they’re regularly collected and donated to charitable causes. 

🤫 Insider tip: The Trevi Fountain is crammed with tourists most of the day, but if you visit before 8am (yep, it’s early!) you’ll likely have it almost to yourself. 

What is it? Castel Sant’Angelo, ‘The Castle of Angels,’ is an eye-catching cylindrical fortification built on the banks of the Tiber River by Roman Emperor Hadrian in the second century AD.

Why go? Originally commissioned as a mausoleum for Hadrian and his family, it was later used as a fortress and castle by the popes. It even includes a secret escape passageway that links the structure to the Vatican City. Today, it is a museum with frescoed rooms, a collection of medieval weaponry and sweeping views of the city of Rome and nearby St Peter’s Basilica.

🤫 Insider tip: The castle’s cafe is actually worth visiting – not because of the food, but for its marvellous view of the Vatican.

What is it? Located in an elegant residential neighborhood, Villa Torlonia is a neoclassical estate that was built for the powerful Torlonia family in the early 19th century. It later served as Benito Mussolini’s private residence from 1925 to 1943. Today, the villa and its gardens are open to the public, offering a unique mix of history and art surrounded by beautiful nature.

Why go? Unlike Rome’s more famous villas, Villa Torlonia is blissfully uncrowded. Stroll through its landscaped English-style gardens, admire frescoes inside the Casino Nobile, and step inside the Mussolini Bunker, a fascinating underground air raid shelter built during World War II.

🤫 Insider tip: Don't miss the Casina delle Civette (House of Owls), a whimsical architectural gem tucked inside the park that features colorful stained glass and fairy-tale turrets.

What is it? One of the best places to sample Rome’s diverse cuisine and excellent street food is at the Testaccio Market, a luminous and contemporary building filled with tantalizing stands that serve everything from artichoke sandwiches and tripe stews to freshly-cooked pasta and craft beers.

Why go? Rome’s culinary traditions are rooted in the Testaccio neighbourhood, making it an essential stop for gourmands and intrepid diners. But it’s also got a fascinating history; the area once housed the largest slaughterhouse in Europe, and employees were usually paid in leftover animal parts (affectionately referred to as the ‘quinto quarto,’ or fifth quarter). 

🤫 Insider tip: Grab a legendary panino at Mordi e Vai or pizza al taglio from CasaManco, one of the best pizzerias in Rome. Be sure to arrive before 3:30pm when the market closes.

What is it? Commissioned by Cardinal Scipione Borghese in the 16th century to house his impressive art collection, Galleria Borghese remains one of the premier museums in Rome.

Why go? An avid art collector, the Cardinal was one of Gian Lorenzo Bernini’s early patrons and a huge fan of Caravaggio’s works, so expect to find exceptional creations here. Some highlights include Apollo and Daphne by Bernini, Paolina Bonaparte by Canova and Boy with a Basket of Fruit by Caravaggio.

🤫 Insider tip: The ‘pleasure palace’ was originally built as a suburban villa and it remains immersed in Villa Borghese’s extensive gardens, so be sure to take a stroll around the park after your visit.

What is it? Fondly referred to as the city of Seven Hills, Rome is known for its scenic vantage points and numerous terraces that give way to stunning views of the city skyline.

Why go? Located above the Trastevere neighbourhood, Gianicolo isn’t technically one of the fabled hills, but it is worth the trek because it’s the highest point in Rome and offers an expansive vista over the Eternal City.

🤫 Insider tip: Just a few minutes away you’ll find the elegant Fontana dell’Acqua Paola, a fountain featured in the opening scene of La Grande Bellezza. 

What is it? The Capitoline Museums are set across three buildings in Piazza del Campidoglio, a trapezoidal piazza designed by Michelangelo in the 16th century.

Why go? Considered the first public museums in the world, they are home to Renaissance marble statues and Roman bronzes such as the Equestrian statue of Marcus Aurelius and the Capitoline Wolf, which symbolises the founding of Rome. The museum also provides an excellent view of the Roman Forum from the Galleria Lapidaria, an underground tunnel that connects the two main buildings. Plan to spend a few hours here – there’s a lot to see. 

🤫 Insider tip: Don’t miss a visit to the secret garden in Piazzale Caffarelli, tucked just behind the piazza.