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What to Book in Advance in Rome (and when to book it!)

By Elyssa Bernard

Updated April 17, 2024

Wondering what to book in advance in Rome? 

This page is about how far in advance you have to book things, and what to do when you don't book in time.

Why you should book in advance in Rome . . . and what to do when you are too late

It’s easy to visit Rome without any advance planning whatsoever .

You will still see a lot. 

In my experience, however, people often arrive in Rome with a wish list, only to discover that what they wanted to see/do needed to be booked ahead, and is now sold out.

One reason to book in advance in Rome is simply due to high demand and limited availability.

Another reason is to skip the lines.

This page is to help you plan ahead, but I'm also including tips for what to do when you're too late .

Here's how to plan your visit and book in advance in Rome to make sure you see what you want to see:

• Things to book ahead by at least 3 months
• Things to book in advance in Rome by 1 week
• Things to book in advance in Rome by 1-2 days
• Things you do not need to book in advance in Rome

Things you should book in advance in Florence and Venice

You might be TOO EARLY

There are a lot of things you cannot book in advance in Rome by more than say, 6 months.

If there is something you want to do more than 6 months from now, and you don't see availability, check back each month until they start opening it up to bookings.

This page is mostly about what to book in advance in Rome during the busy months ( March - November ).

If you are planning to visit Rome in the quietest months  of winter (part of December, January and early February ), you may not need to book quite so far in advance.

Things to book in advance in Rome by at least three months

The below are some of the most highly requested things to see and do in Rome . You need to plan ahead.

Vatican Sites to visit to book in advance in Rome

Christmas or easter mass at the vatican.

The Pope holds mass throughout the year  for various important occasions. Even during Christmas and Easter, there are several masses he holds. But the most popular papal masses of the entire year by far are  Christmas Eve Midnight Mass , and  Easter Sunday Mass , both held at  Saint Peter's Basilica . 

You need tickets for both. Tickets are free, but they are also in limited supply.

Visit my pages for each holiday, with instructions for booking. You cannot go wrong requesting tickets 6 months in advance.

What to do if you can't get tickets to Vatican Christmas or Easter masses?

• You can try to go there anyway . Sometimes people have extra tickets, and give them away to people walking by, and you could just get lucky. You can try to ask at the bronze doors where the Swiss Guard stand. That's a long shot but you never know.
• You can go to Saint Peter's Basilica and plan to be outside . This is less enjoyable when it's Christmas, as Christmas Mass is held inside the basilica and it's cold outside. But at Easter, you can stand far back and still get a glimpse of the Pope on the jumbotrons.
• You could try for other papal masses around the holidays. You could try for mass on Christmas Day, or on at Easter on Holy Thursday, Friday, Saturday, or Monday.
• On both Christmas Day and Easter Sunday, the Pope addresses the crowds in Saint Peter's Square after mass, at noon . This address is free and open to everyone. It's called Urbi et Orbi , and is a short speech, usually only in Italian, lasting about 15 minutes.
• There are so many other churches in Rome where you can attend these special holiday masses, without, of course, seeing the Pope. One such church is the Pantheon . Space will be limited so come early!

St Peter’s tomb - the Necropolis under St. Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City

A visit to  St. Peter's tomb , also called  scavi  (excavations) is a fascinating archeological tour, showing us a glimpse of how the Ancient Romans buried their dead.

It is also one of the most sought-after, and difficult to get, reservations in Rome. 

When you   visit the Vatican Necropolis   (city of the dead, or burial grounds), deep underneath Saint Peter's basilica, you will also see the site where St. Peter is said to be buried .

The site is delicate, so they only allow 12 people on each tour, and a maximum 250 people in the excavations per day. And the tours do not go every day. So as you can imagine, especially as we get into high season months, from March - November, you will have to really plan ahead to visit this amazing site .

What to do if you can't get tickets to Saint Peter's tomb?

• You can try booking through a ticket agency. It's more expensive than booking directly through the Scavi office, but it's a little easier, and, you have a chance to get tickets if the Scavi office is sold out.
• You can visit other parts of the Vatican, and when you are in Saint Peter's basilica , you can head down into the tombs just below the main church. This is NOT the same as visiting Saint Peter's tomb, but you can see where many other popes are buried, and you will at least be IN the place where St. Peter is said to be buried. This is free and part of a visit to St. Peter's basilica.
• You can visit the Mamertine prison on Capitoline Hill , and see where Saints Peter and Paul were held prisoner before their executions.
• You can visit the church of Saint John in Lateran , where the skulls of Peter and Paul are kept.
• You can visit the church of Saint Pauls Outside the Walls , where Saint Paul is buried.
• You can visit the catacombs , where many Christians and saints are said to have been buried.

Ready to plan your trip?

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With one handy pass, it's all included.

Exclusive After-Hours Visit to the Sistine Chapel

Did you know you can skip all the lines but also the crowds, and see the Sistine Chapel after hours?

This very special thing to do does not come cheaply.

But in my experience, it sells out FAST , precisely because it's so exclusive. So if you want to to partake, you need to book as far in advance as you can.

What to do if you can't get tickets to an exclusive after-hours visit to the Sistine Chapel?

• If your goal is to have privileged access to the Vatican Museums and the Sistine Chapel , one option is to join the Vatican Patrons . I've found a lot of visitors to Rome sign up for this year-long membership even if they won't be able to partake of their privileges throughout the year, simply because they find it worth doing even for the short time they are in Rome. 
• You can book an early morning tour to see the Sistine Chapel before opening time . Since many tour companies offer this option, it is not as exclusive or private as seeing it after hours. But it's still much less crowded than during normal visiting hours.
• My personal preference for visiting the Vatican Museums is always to go as late in the day as possible . I like to go in at 3:45pm, right before the ticket office closes at 4pm. Then, I get to the Sistine Chapel at 5:20pm, before they start shooing people out at about 5:30pm (the Sistine Chapel closes at 6pm but that is the time they shut the doors, so they need everyone out before that). Then, I just stand that and look at the art. I mean really look at it, closing out all other senses. Ignore the guards asking people to leave. You don't have to leave just yet. Stay as long as you can, focus on what you are seeing, and just soak it up. It's not an exclusive visit, but it feels more special this way, and it's definitely less crowded than during the peak hours of the day.

Colosseum Underground

Visiting the Colosseum  is one thing.

Visiting the  Colosseum underground  (hypogeum) is another.

This special visit has limited availability, in part because the area is delicate, and cannot accommodate the thousands of visitors who come to the Colosseum every day. This is one visit you must book in advance in Rome, year-round.

What to do if you can't get tickets to the Underground?

• You can try booking a tour through an agency . It will cost more than booking it directly on the Parco Colosseo website , but you may find availability that way.
• You can try to book a night tour of the Colosseum (only spring-summer-early fall). The night tours include a visit to the underground of the Colosseum.

Palazzo Farnese

Palazzo Farnese  is one of the most exquisite, and one of the most difficult to book, noble palazzos in Rome, because it is today the French Embassy.

Due to security concerns, there are a limited number of tours, with a limited number of visitors allowed each week.

Visits in English are held only once a week (Wednesdays at 5pm).

If you want to see Palazzo Farnese, you need to book as far in advance as you can (and as far in advance as their calendar allows). Bookings are not accepted less than one week before the date of the visit. 

What to do if you can't get tickets to Palazzo Farnese?

• You could try to take the visit in another language . There are many more options for visits in French and in Italian . If it's important for you to see the villa, and you can only get a tour in a language you don't understand, you will at least be able to soak in all the beauty.
• You can visit another one of Rome's noble palazzos, such as Palazzo Doria Pamphilj .
• You can come to Piazza Farnese and get a look at the facade (designed in part by Michelangelo ), and enjoy an aperitivo at one of the wine bars there.

The perfect 3-day itinerary in Rome

Trying to figure out how to organize your visit to Rome? I've got the perfect 3-day itinerary for first-time visitors (or those who have not been here in a while.) It works for a 2.5 day visit as well.

In my 3-day itinerary, you'll see all the major must-see Rome attractions like the Vatican , Colosseum , Trevi Fountain , Pantheon , Piazza Navona , Spanish Steps , Castel Sant'Angelo , and much more.

And if you have more time, or want suggestions for extra/other things to do, you'll find that there too.

Visit my page with the best 3-day itinerary in Rome for first-timers .

La Pergola restaurant at the Rome Cavalieri Waldorf Astoria

As of early November 2023, La Pergola is closed for renovations until April 2024. Check back for updates.

Rome has one 3*** Michelin star restaurant, La Pergola , inside the Cavalieri Waldorf Astoria . Chef Heinz Beck is world-renowned for his creative, exquisite dishes, and dining at the Pergola offers a treat for the senses like no place else in Rome, perfect for a romantic meal .

You'll need to book months in advance to get a coveted spot here. Jacket and tie required.

What to do if you can't get a reservation at La Pergola?

• The Waldorf Astoria boasts another wonderful restaurant, L'Uliveto , headed by celebrity chef Fabio Boschero . You will dine poolside on delicious cuisine, worthy of the setting.
• Rome has several Michelin star restaurants, all wonderful, and some with views . Two of my favorite 1* Michelin restaurants in Rome are the Mirabelle inside the hotel Splendide Royale , and Imago on top of the Hotel Hassler . These are both restaurants to book in advance in Rome, by at least 3-4 days.

Things to book in advance in Rome by at least a week

Galleria borghese.

In low season, you may be able to visit the Galleria Borghese without booking ahead, but most of the time this is one museum you must book in advance in Rome, even by a few days.

And in peak season , you need to book ahead of time by at least a week.

What to do if you can't get a reservation at the Galleria Borghese?

• You can phone the booking office (011 39 06 32810). Sometimes they have tickets available even if you cannot find them online.
• You can try just showing up and seeing if there are any no-shows. The best times to try this are 8:30am for the 9am slot, or 4:30pm for the 5pm slot.
• You can try booking a tour through an outside agency.
• You can visit another of Rome's wonderful art museums , such as the Doria Pamphilj , the Villa Torlonia, and the Capitoline Museums .

Vatican Museums

If you have a tight travel schedule and want to visit the Vatican Museums on a specific date and time, you should book at least a week in advance.

If you, as many visitors to Rome do, don’t book ahead for the Vatican museums, you may be able to book once you are in Rome. You just may find, especially in peak season, that you can't get a ticket online, or cannot get one for the time/date you want.

Friday or Saturday Night Visit to Vatican Museums

If you are visiting Rome between April and October, and want to visit the Vatican Museums on Friday or Saturday night , you should book this at least a week in advance .

What to do if you can't get a reservation for the Vatican Museums through the Vatican Website?

• You can go there and wait in line. They do not have a daily quota for number of visitors, so if you wait, you will eventually get in . The lines can be long, even 2 hours' wait time. Try going first thing in the morning ( 8am, for 9am entry ), or closer to closing, like 3:30pm , when there is almost no line.
• Try to book a tour online , even same day. Tour companies all offer skip-the-line access.
• If you go down to the Vatican Museums, you will be bombarded by touts trying to sell you skip-the-line tickets and/or tours . Caveat emptor - buyer beware . You have no idea what you are paying for, and often, it can be a tour happening 2 hours later so you sill have to wait. Be very careful about this if you decide to go for one of these options. I don't recommend it but it is an option.
• If you know you will be back in Rome soon, you could skip the museums and visit just St. Peter's Basilica , and plan to see the museums on your next visit, when you can book in advance.

Vatican Gardens

Like some of the other exclusive sites in the Vatican, visits to the Vatican Gardens are something you should book in advance in Rome if you want to get a spot. 

They are not held every day, and only a limited number of people are allowed in at a time, so these sell out quickly.

What to do if you can't get a reservation for the Vatican Gardens?

• You can try to  book through a ticket agency .
• You can book a visit to the Pope's gardens at Castel Gandolfo . ( Visit our dedicated page about Castel Gandolfo .)
• You can climb the dome of St. Peter's Basilica , where you can see the gardens from above.
• If you're looking for some green space, head to Villa Borghese park , or one of the other many parks in Rome.

Domus Aurea

Visiting the Domus Aurea can be one of highlights of a visit to Rome, especially if you are into Ancient Rome. This extraordinary archeological site gives you a rare chance to see and experience what an ancient Roman Imperial palace was like . 

Availability is very limited, in part because it's open for tours only on weekends . This is one site you really must book in advance in Rome.

What to do if you can't get a reservation for the Domus Aurea?

• You can try to  book a tour that includes this. It will cost more than booking directly with Parco Colosseo , but it will include other things too.
• Visit Palazzo Valentini (below),  another amazing underground Ancient Rome site .
• Visit the Palazzo Massimo alle Terme , a wonderful museum with fantastic Ancient Rome artefacts, sculptures, mosaics and more.

Don't forget to bring these essential travel items with you!

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Domus Romana - Palazzo Valentini

The Domus Romana at Palazzo Valentini is an amazing visit of an ancient Rome site. Right underneath Trajan's Column and Trajan's Forum , you can see excavations of an ancient Roman  domus , or home. The tour is excellent, and offers an immersive experience, including film, light shows and laser images .

Just a small warning - it made me a little dizzy to have lights going off and the floor lighting up underneath me, but I still loved it. I just leaned on the wall!

Because the number of people and visits per day is limited, you will need to book in advance if you want to visit this site.

What to do if you can't get a reservation for Palazzo Valentini?

• You can go to the booking office/entry site and see if they've had any cancellations/openings.
• Visit the  Palazzo Massimo alle Terme , a wonderful museum with fantastic Ancient Rome artefacts, sculptures, mosaics and more.

Papal Audience

To attend the weekly Papal Audience , it's a good idea to book at least a week in advance, if not more. 

Depending on how busy it is in Rome, you can sometimes book 1-2 days in advance.

What to do if you can't get a reservation for the Papal Audience?

• You can go at 7am to the bronze door of the Swiss Guard on the morning of the audience, and ask if they have tickets. This is not a guarantee but often you will be able to get them this way.
• You can try booking through a tour agency . In this case you will pay to attend the Papal Audience. As a bonus, the tour agent usually accompanies you to seating near the front.

Things to book in advance in Rome by 1-2 days (but often can also be booked on the same day)

Some of the below are ALSO in the sections above about what to book in advance in Rome by a week or more.

They are in this section as well because you can sometimes book them during your visit, or with short notice , if you are here in low season, or, in high season, if you get lucky.

Just know that even if it's the same day, you SHOULD book .

So the exact time when to book in advance in Rome for these things is up to you.

If you are a planner , err on the side of caution and book ahead.

If you like to play it by ear , you will probably get bookings to the below, perhaps just not exactly when/how you want to:

I always suggest booking (even same day) ahead for the Vatican Museums , purely to make sure you get skip-the-line tickets .

The Pantheon

As of July 3, 2023, it will cost 5€ to visit the Pantheon

You don't need to book ahead (but you can -visit my dedicated Pantheon page below). You can simply wait in line at the Pantheon to buy your ticket.

To find out how to book the Pantheon  Visit my dedicated page all about Pantheon tickets to find out how.

Opera/ballet

Unless you have a specific, high in-demand concert or opera you know you want to see, you can usually find tickets to an opera or concert last-minute in Rome .

This includes concerts at Rome's auditorium, operas in Rome's opera house or at the Caracalla baths , and of course, the smaller concerts held in churches around Rome. So even if you book the same day, you will find something to see.

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As I mentioned above, in low season , you can often just go to the entrance of the Swiss Guard at 7am and ask if they have tickets. And in high season, you can try this as well, although in general, the Papal Audience is one thing I suggest you book in advance in Rome by at least a week.

Most restaurants

My advice to you is to relax about this and not over-plan.

I’ve seen so many of our hotel guests book a restaurant, and then cancel at the end of a long day, because they either “are too tired to go very far” or, “ate some pizza along the way and now are not hungry, we might just go out for some drinks.”

Once you are in Rome, you can see how you feel, and decide even on the same day where you want to have dinner. Believe me, there is always someplace good to eat in Rome .

When to book advance in Rome at a restaurant

However, there are exceptions to my above advice:

• To book at Rome’s only 3-star Michelin restaurant, La Pergola , you need to book weeks, if not months, in advance As of early November 2023, La Pergola is closed for renovations until April 2024. Check back for updates.  
• To book at some of the hottest popular “best Rome trattorias” , you should consider booking a few  days in advance. (By this I mean the ones blazing the pages of all the Rome food blogs.)
• If you are coming at a very busy time, and have a specific restaurant where you really want to eat , book a couple of days in advance. By busy times, I don’t mean Christmas and Easter. I mean during really busy weekends , such as when 6-nations Rugby matches are in town (in February and March); when the BNL tennis tournaments are in Rome (mid-May); on Valentine’s Day ; or when a major concert is on in Rome. 

So if you are coming on a weekend-break to Rome, consider if there is a special event or reason you are coming.

Chances are, thousands of others are coming too, so you should book in advance in Rome if you know where you want to eat.

Things you don’t need to book in advance in Rome  

When I say that for the below, you don't need to book in advance in Rome, I mean, you do not need to book at all. Just show up.

Visiting Saint Peter’s Basilica (not the museums)

Visiting the Vatican  usually entails seeing the  Vatican Museums  (for which I highly recommend booking in advance, see above), and visiting St. Peter's Basilica. You can visit one and not the other, and you can also visit them on separate days.

St. Peter's Basilica is open 7 days a week, from 7am until 6:30pm ( winter ) or 7pm (summer).

It's free, but you do have to go through security. So you do not need to book this in advance.

You CAN  purchase tickets to skip the line , but that can also be done a day in advance and often on the same day.

The Pope’s Sunday angelus

One of the best ways to  see the Pope in Rome  is to attend the Sunday Angelus.

Held (just about) every Sunday when the Pope is in Rome , this short greeting is free for everyone and does not require a ticket.

Just come to St. Peter's square around 11:30, and wait for the Pope to appear in the window above, and greet the crowd. The Angelus starts at 12 noon and lasts about 15 minutes.

Forum/Palatine Hill

To visit the Roman Forum / Palatine Hill (it is considered one park even if there are several entrances), you do not need to book in advance.

You can buy this ticket even on the same day of your visit, as long as you do not also plan to visit the Colosseum.

If you want to visit the Colosseum normally, you now can to book online (i.e. in advance), but also at the two ticket offices near by. You probably can get tickets even on the same day even in high season, as long as it's not for anything special like the arena, underground, or a night visit.

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Most museums in Rome

Other than the Galleria Borghese, and Palazzo Farnese, you can count on being able to visit other Rome museums without booking ahead. This includes (but is not limited to):

• Capitoline Museums
• Galleria Doria Pamphilj
• Villa Torlonia

While this page is about what to book in advance in Rome, while you're at it, you might as well book ahead for Florence and Venice too. Here are just a couple of things you should book in advance in those cities:

What to book in advance in Florence

Without a doubt, you should book the Uffizi Gallery , Accademia (where Michelangelo's David is), and the Duomo (cathedral), especially if you want to climb to the top.

What to book in advance in Venice

You can visit the Doge's Palace in Venice on your own, but if you want to book the Secret Itineraries tour at the Doge's Palace , you need to book that in advance.

Plans, trains and automobiles (and hotels)

By booking your trip in advance, you can often get some good deals.

This page is about sites and restaurants to book in advance in Rome.

For more about booking your hotels, flights , cars and trains ahead to save money, visit this page .

And if you're planning to head to Florence (aren't most of you??), don't forget to book your high-speed train from Rome to Florence in advance!

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Top attractions and tours

• Colosseum - Don't miss visiting Rome's most iconic monument
• Vatican Museums - This is where the Sistine Chapel is
• Pantheon - Book ahead and skip the line
• Galleria Borghese - You'll need to book ahead for one of Rome's best museums
• Castel Sant'Angelo - See Rome's history through its architecture
• Rome City Pass - A great way to make your Rome visits easier

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19 best rome tours of 2024: food, the vatican & more.

These top-rated Rome tours are led by experts who bring the city's history to life.

The Best Rome Tours

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Considered one of the world's best places to visit , Rome offers countless things to do and an endless selection of delicious cuisine. But given the overwhelming crowds and restricted access to ancient sites, it can be difficult to fully enjoy all that Italy's capital has to offer on your own. That's where a guided tour can help.

Based on recent traveler reviews and expert opinion, we've selected the best tours in Rome. Whether you're gliding past the Colosseum on a Segway or savoring Italian wine in the countryside, you'll benefit from fun and informative guides leading the way.

Fat Tire Tours Rome – Rome Day Segway Tour

Price: From 73 euros (around $79) Duration: 3 hours

Hop on a Segway to see the Eternal City's many sights. After receiving your helmet and tuning in to a quick training session, you'll receive a headset to follow the lively commentary from the experienced Fat Tire Tours guide. Along the three-hour ride, you'll glide past sights like Trajan's Forum, Capitoline Hill and more. Plus, you'll don a virtual reality headset during your stop outside the Colosseum that reconstructs the famous arena's past grandeur. Travelers appreciate that Segways make getting around and seeing Rome's sights easier and more fun, especially for families with older teens. Reviewers also appreciate the engaging local guides.

Tours run daily at 9:30 a.m. Participants must be at least 16 years old and weigh between 100 and 260 pounds. Pregnant women are not permitted on this tour. The company also leads a night tour, which visits the city's illuminated monuments after sundown, among other outings.

Check prices & availability on:

LivItaly Tours – Colosseum Underground Tour with Arena, Palatine Hill & Roman Forum

Price: Adults from 159 euros (around $173); kids from 144 euros (around $156) Duration: 3 hours

Enjoy swift entry to the Colosseum underground and see the arena floor, Palatine Hill and the Roman Forum on this small-group tour. LivItaly leads up to six travelers to the restricted lower level of the Colosseum, where dungeons once confined gladiators and their opponents. In three hours, learn about ancient Rome's social order on Palatine Hill and everyday life at the forum. Travelers, especially those with children, agree that having a passionate guide with a deep knowledge of Roman history enriched the experience. Reviewers also appreciate the small size of the tour group.

Tours depart daily at multiple times beginning at 12:15 p.m. Book the company's 90-minute Express Colosseum Underground & Arena Tour if you're short on time.

The Best Rome Colosseum Tours

Laura Itzkowitz April 17, 2024

TopBike Rental and Tours – Ancient Appian Way, Catacombs and Aqueducts Park

Price: From 65 euros (about $71) to 89 euros (about $97) Duration: 4 or 6 hours

Travelers have been using the Ancient Appian Way for 2,300 years and you'll traverse it with a friendly, knowledgeable local on this electric bike excursion. Along the ride, you'll pass archeological sites, Christian catacombs and picturesque Roman aqueducts framing the unspoiled countryside. The tour covers roughly 17 miles, 60% of which requires off-road cycling, so TopBike recommends this tour for intermediate riders. Some tourgoers say you might not even break a sweat though, thanks to the ease of the electric bikes.

Tourgoers can opt for the Short Tour (four hours) or the Plus Tour (six hours), the latter of which follows the same path as the shorter excursion and also includes a guided tour of the Catacombs of St. Callixtus (or Saint Sebastian) and a stop at the Baths of Caracalla. Exact tour departure times vary by season, but you can expect to start around 9 a.m. TopBike also leads cycling tours within the city center.

Gourmetaly – Campo de' Fiori, Jewish Ghetto and Trastevere Rome Food Tour

Price: Adults from 93 euros (around $101); kids from 65 euros (around $71) Duration: 3.5 hours

Tantalize your taste buds on this Rome food tour, which covers three distinct neighborhoods known for their cuisine. As your local guide leads you through the Jewish ghetto, Campo de' Fiori and Trastevere, you'll stop by top-rated food markets, grocery stores, coffee shops, gelaterias and restaurants. Among the food samples included in the tour are fried artichokes, pizza, mozzarella, fresh pasta and gelato. Tours are capped at 12 participants. Reviewers call this a delightful experience thanks to the informative guides who offer an interesting lesson on Roman history, food and culture. They also recommend taking this tour on your first day in Rome to make the most of the guides' recommendations.

Tours are offered several times each day in the morning and afternoon. Note that the afternoon tour does not visit the Campo de' Fiori market (a highlight for many recent tourgoers). In addition to food tours, Gourmetaly also hosts cooking classes.

Eyes of Rome – Colosseum and Roman Forum Tour

Price: Adults from 453 euros (around $491); kids from 35 euros (around $38) Duration: 3 hours

With your private guide leading the way, you'll visit the Colosseum, explore the ancient city along paths that served the Roman Senate and learn the legends of the House of the Vestal Virgins. Tourgoers value the attentive guides who share history and lore in an entertaining way. They also say the tour is well-paced.

Tickets cover pick up at centrally located hotels and skip-the-line admission. Note that prices can vary significantly depending on the number of people in your party. A couple can expect to pay roughly $500 for tickets. Eyes of Rome also conducts private walking tours of the Vatican.

Private Tours of Rome – Vatican & Sistine Chapel Private Tour

Price: From $364 Duration: 3 hours

One of the best tours of the Vatican , this intimate excursion includes skip-the-line access to the complex and a guide who shares the Vatican Museums' top attractions in just three hours. See the artistic highlights in the   Gallery of Ancient Roman Sculptures, the Gallery of Tapestries and famous Raphael paintings. You'll then experience Michelangelo's masterpieces in the Sistine Chapel. Your guide will ensure you see the Pietà   in St. Peter's Basilica, the Apostolic Palace and the famous balcony where the pope delivers his blessings. Travelers praise the excellent guides who tailor the tour to groups' interests and keep children engaged.

Tours operate Monday through Saturday in the morning and afternoon. Ticket prices vary depending on your itinerary and group size. The company suggests you book at least one month in advance to ensure a specialist authorized by the Vatican is available. Private Tours of Rome also offers tours of the Colosseum and the Borghese Gallery, among others.

Courtesy of Roman Food Tours

The Roman Food Tour – Prati By Sunset

Price: Adults from 99 euro (about $107); kids from 90 euros (about $98) Duration: 4 hours

Devoted foodies skip lunch for the more than 20 food and wine pairings on this four-hour evening tour of some of Rome's top eateries. Throughout the tour, you'll feast on gourmet delights, such as homemade pasta, pizza, fresh cheeses and gelato. More importantly, you'll learn tips to enhance your knowledge and pleasure in Italian cuisine. Travelers praise the expertise of the fun guides who explain each dish's origin and quality with gusto.

Tours, which are offered daily multiple times starting at 3:30 p.m. The Roman Food Tour also offers day tours and cooking classes.

Rex-Tours – Rome City Segway Tour

Price: From 79 euros (about $86) Duration: 3 hours

Roll in comfort past many of ancient Rome's major sights on this three-hour Segway tour. Rex-Tours' expert guides lead up to eight travelers for an effortless overview of must-see landmarks, such as Capitoline Hill and the Colosseum. Reviewers applaud the knowledgeable guides who offer a wealth of information without overwhelming travelers. What's more, guides provide restaurant recommendations and tips for making the most of your visit to Rome, according to tourgoers.

The Rome City Segway Tour departs twice daily at 9:30 a.m. and 3 p.m. Travelers also recommend enjoying the company's evening Segway tour if you're visiting during the summer and need a break from the peak daytime heat.

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Eating Europe – Twilight Trastevere Rome Food Tour

Price: Adults from 114 euros (about $123); kids from 81 euros (about $88) Duration: 4 hours

Travelers suggest you skip lunch before this evening walking tour of Trastevere, so that you can savor the street food and sweet treats served at each stop. As you meander through the neighborhood (often compared to New York City's Greenwich Village), you'll enjoy mouthwatering bites of everything from classic supplì , or fried risotto balls stuffed with mozzarella, to porchetta, homemade pasta and gelato. Foodie guides share each chef's story and culinary traditions, along with tips on how to find and make the best Roman cuisine on your own. Reviewers praise the guides for their insider knowledge and gush about the quality of the food and wine featured on the tour.

Tours run daily at multiple times and there is a maximum of 12 people per tour. Eating Europe also operates a tour that explores Testaccio, considered Rome's "original foodie neighborhood."

Rolling Rome – Rome Squares & Fountains Golf Cart Tour

Price: From 100 euros (about $108) Duration: 3 hours

Avoid Rome's congested traffic and keep the family entertained on this three-hour, private golf cart tour of the city. Whizz past major sights in the historical center and piazzas Venezia, Navona and del Popolo, plus the Spanish Steps, the Trevi Fountain, the Pantheon and more. Since the tour is customizable, you can also ask the guide to take you to lesser-known spots in the city – a highlight for reviewers. Along with the knowledgeable and enthusiastic guides, reviewers appreciate the golf cart's ability to avoid traffic using Rome's narrow back lanes.

Tours, which can accommodate up to seven participants, depart daily at 9:30 a.m. and 3 p.m. One week's advance reservation is recommended. Rolling Rome also offers daylong golf cart tours, as well as a variety of Segway and electric bike tours.

Food Tours of Rome – Jewish Ghetto and Campo de' Fiori by Night Food Tour

Price: Adults from 89 euros (about $96); kids from 75 euros (about $81) Duration: 4 hours

Combine sightseeing with snacking and drinking on this evening tour of the Jewish ghetto and the Campo Marzio area. Fun, knowledgeable guides make seven stops for food and wine between explaining major historic attractions like Piazza Navona and Campo de' Fiori. Stop in delis, family-run shops and restaurants to sample gourmet cheeses and hams, pasta, espresso, and gelato. First-time visitors especially appreciate this informative introduction to the city and the family-run vendors featured on the tour.

Tours depart nightly at 6 p.m. Food Tours of Rome can accommodate some special diets with advance notice. The company also offers a dessert and sightseeing tour of Rome, among various other options.

What A Life Tours – Skip-the-line Vatican Small Group Tour

Price: Adults from $87; kids from $82 Duration: 3 hours

Travelers say this tour is worthwhile thanks to the personable guides, who bring the history of the Vatican Museums to life. Reviewers also appreciate that groups are capped at 12 participants, which they say creates an intimate experience that fosters engagement between guides and tourgoers. You'll start the three-hour tour with skip-the-line access to the Vatican Museums to admire highlights like the Gallery of Maps and the Pinecone Courtyard. Then, you'll head to the Sistine Chapel and St. Peter's Basilica to marvel at Michelangelo’s Pietà. Along the way, your guide will share commentary that you'll be able to hear via an audio headset.

Tours generally operate Monday through Saturday at 10 a.m.; tours depart at 10:30 a.m. on Wednesday. In addition to its variety of Vatican tours, the company also offers tours of the Colosseum and daylong tours of Rome.

Rome's Ultimate Free Walking Tour

Price: Free Duration: 2.5 to 3 hours

According to reviewers, this free walking tour is a great way to start your visit in Rome. During the nearly three-hour stroll, you'll visit several photo-worthy piazzas, the Pantheon, Ponte Sant'Angelo and Castel Sant'Angelo, among other sights. Guides, who have backgrounds in subjects like history and architecture, earn praise from reviewers for their entertaining storytelling and thoughtful restaurant and activity recommendations.

Tours, which are limited to 15 participants, operate twice daily at 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. In total, you'll walk less than 2 miles. According to the company, the tour is suitable for travel strollers and wheelchairs. Though the tour is free, it's recommended that you reserve your spot in advance via the company's website (guides do not wait at the departure point unless reservations are booked). At the end of the tour, you can tip your guide based on your experience.

Check availability on:

Courtesy of Secret Food Tours Rome

Secret Food Tours – Rome Food Tour

Price: Adults from 79 euros (about $86); kids from 69 euros (about $75) Duration: 3 to 3.5 hours

Dine your way through the historical center of Rome, visiting cafes, markets and shops for a total of up to seven stops. During the tour, you'll walk through neighborhoods like the Campo de' Fiori and the Jewish quarter with an enthusiastic guide who ties together history and insights about traditional dishes. The focus is on Italian-style dining: savoring the perfect cappuccino, sampling fresh pizzas and homemade pastas, pairing wines with a variety of cheeses, gelato and more. Travelers praise the guides' knowledge of Roman cuisine and the amount and quality of the food.

Tours depart daily at 11 and 11:30 a.m. An additional 5 p.m. tour may be available depending on the day. Private tours are also an option.

The Roman Guy – Privileged Entrance Vatican Tour with Sistine Chapel

Price: Adults from $119; kids from $56 Duration: 3 hours

Hoping to see the Vatican sans enormous crowds? This three-hour tour from The Roman Guy convenes at 7:45 a.m., allowing you to enter the Vatican Museums an hour before they open to the general public. First, relish the tranquil Sistine Chapel, which welcomes upward of 25,000 visitors daily during the summer. Afterward, follow your guide to museum highlights, including Raphael's paintings, the Borgia Apartments and the Gallery of the Maps. Travelers rave about the knowledgeable guides and say the opportunity to see the Sistine Chapel without the crowds is worth the tour price (though reviewers warn that you will still encounter quite a few other tour groups enjoying early access to the site).

Tours are available Monday through Saturday. Groups are capped at 14 people. If you're short on time, consider The Roman Guy's abridged Vatican Highlights tour, which last 2.5 hours.

City Wonders – Tuscan Countryside Day Trip from Rome with 3-Course Lunch & Wine Tasting

Price: Adults from $112; kids from $102 Duration: 12 hours

If you want to visit Tuscany while in Rome, but don't want to drive the approximately 175-mile journey yourself, consider this 12-hour excursion from City Wonders. You'll depart from Rome at 7:30 a.m. via an air-conditioned coach bus to see famous hilltop towns, such as Montepulciano and Pienza. You'll also visit the Renaissance church of St. Biagio before enjoying a three-course lunch and wine pairing in the famed Montalcino. Travelers say guides are informative and thoughtful, giving tourists ample time to explore the towns and take pictures. All agree that leaving the driving to a professional made the trip worthwhile.

Tours are offered daily. City Wonders also offers a variety of tours in Rome, including tours of the Colosseum, the Vatican and the Borghese Gallery.

Through Eternity Tours – Rome in a Day Tour with Colosseum & Sistine Chapel: Essential Experience

Price: From 1,345 euros (about $1,458) Duration: 6 hours

Conquer Rome in six hours with Through Eternity Tours. With your skip-the-line tickets , you'll visit the Colosseum, the Roman Forum and the Vatican Museums, including the Sistine Chapel and St. Peter's Basilica. Professional, engaging guides – all fluent English speakers – allow you to set the pace, absorbing as much history and archeology as you want at each stop. Travelers say you'll see much more on this half-day tour than you would if you were to visit each site on your own, as guides point out unexpected gems along the way.

Rates can vary considerably depending on the number in your party, and the company offers discounts for students and children. Bring stamina, a water bottle and wear comfortable walking shoes . When you're ready for more, try one of Through Eternity's other tours, such as its evening tour of Rome's piazzas and fountains.

Walks of Italy – Gladiator's Gate: Special Access Colosseum Tour with Arena Floor

Price: Adults from $105; kids from $99 Duration: 3 hours

On this three-hour tour, you'll enter the Colosseum through the "Gladiator's Gate" – the entrance that was once used exclusively for gladiators 2,000 years ago. Once inside, you'll enjoy 360-degree views of the Colosseum on the reconstructed arena floor as your guide shares the gory history of this famous landmark . Then, you'll bypass the lines to tour the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill. Highlights include the cremation point of Julius Caesar, senate buildings and the Temple of the Vestal Virgins. Guides win kudos from travelers for their ability to discuss dense history topics in an engaging manner. Reviewers say the tour flies by thanks to the guides' entertaining storytelling. They also appreciate the skip-the-line access to these must-see sights.

Tours, which are capped at 25 participants, are offered three times daily at 9:15 a.m., 10:30 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. Rates may vary based on the time of year, and they include all entrance tickets and the use of audio headsets during the tour. Walks of Italy also hosts cooking classes in Rome and organizes day trips to Pompeii and the Amalfi Coast.

Maya Tours – Skip-the-Line Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel Group Tour

Price: Adults from 45 euros (about $49); kids from 35 euros (about $38) Duration: 2 hours

If you're interested in visiting the Vatican Museums, but don't want to devote more than a couple hours of your Rome vacation to the experience, consider this kid-friendly tour. In addition to skip-the-line access, your guide will show you the must-see artworks, several courtyards and galleries, and the Sistine Chapel. Reviewers praise guides for their interesting and informed commentary (which tourgoers can hear via audio headsets). Parents are particularly impressed with guides' ability to engage children.

Tours are offered Monday through Saturday multiple times in the morning and afternoon. Maya Tours also operates longer, semiprivate tours of the Vatican.

You may also be interested in:

• The Best Hotels in Rome
• The Best Places to Visit in Italy
• The Best Italy Tours + Small-Group Trips
• The Best International Travel Insurance

Tags: Italy , Tours , Travel , Vacations , food and drink , Europe Vacations

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The 10 best tours in Rome to book now

From sophisticated wine tasting to food market meandering, make the most of your trip with these rousing tours around Rome

You can flounder with a city map (or multiple tabs on your smartphone) all you want, but everyone knows the best way to see the city is to be shown around by a local. So if you’ve sorted out where to stay in Rome and want to get to know this incredible city, check out our hand-picked selection of the best Rome tours. Whether you’re after seriously stunning (and usually out of bounds) views from the heady heights of attractions like the Colosseum, a very cool day trip , or would rather just eat and drink your way around the culinary capital (we don’t blame you), there’s a tour for you. And you don’t have to waste hours scrolling online, just check out our guide to the best below. You know what they say, when in Rome....

RECOMMENDED: 🏺 The best attractions in Rome 🏛 The best museums in Rome 🛏 The best Airbnbs in Rome 🚃 The best day trips from Rome

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Top tours in Rome

1.  Early Access Vatican Museums Small-Group Tour with St. Peter’s and Sistine Chapel

Avoid the hordes and hordes of camera-wielding Vatican visitors by booking this tour, which gets you a queue jump and access to the UNESCO-listed complex an hour before it opens to the public. The small group means you won’t strain to hear the guide and you’ll have three whole hours to marvel at the Sistine Chapel, Raphael Rooms, and  Michelangelo’s masterpieces.  And no trip to Rome is complete without setting eyes on that lot. 

2.  Borghese Gallery Tour: Feast your eyes on Baroque masterpieces

If classical art is your thing, don’t miss this the beautifully sculpted works of Bernini housed in the Borghese Gallery. As you ogle all that marvelous marble, your guide will be on hand to answer any questions you have about the collection. And listen, they really know their stuff. 

3.  Crypts and Catacombs tours: Visit secret Rome

Swap romantic cobbled streets for macabre skull-lined crypts on this tour of Rome’s ancient catacombs. It’s slightly gruesome, yes but totally fascinating – few of Rome's best tours will give you such an intriguing insight into the city's past.

4.  Rome’s Ghetto and Trastevere tour: Explore medieval and Jewish Rome

Delve into Rome’s Jewish past on this tour that's pretty much perfect for history buffs and culture vultures. As well as wandering around the Jewish Ghetto and Trastevere neighborhoods, you’ll visit the Synagogue and museum, while an art historian or religious expert (or both, if you're lucky!) fills you in on the important stuff. 

5.  Italy in a Glass: a fun wine tour through the city centre

Treat yourself to this booze-based tour, led by a wine-savvy sommelier, who will give you the lowdown on the culture, history and geography behind every bottle before getting down to the exciting part: swilling five varieties of grape. Plus there'll be food pairings to soak up the vino, which you'll probably appreciate when closing time hits. 

6.  Just Gelato: The perfect tour for those with a sweet tooth

If it ain’t broke don’t fix it should be the motto of this family-run  gelateri e, which uses the freshest ingredients to create its homemade gelato. It’s some of the finest you’ll try in the Italian capital and this tour you’ll be treated to a live  demonstration – so you know exactly how it gets from udder to cone. 

7.  Walks of Italy: Tour the Colosseum and Forum

Make your trip to the Colosseum worth the journey it took to find it with this all-encompassing tour, which offers that all important queue jump (believe us, you’ll be thankful you did once you see that snaking line) and access to the third, fourth and fifth tiers of the ancient ruin. Translation: pretty spectacular views of the arena and beyond. 

8.  Market to Table: Join professional chefs for a market tour and cookery class

Foodies, this tour was created just for you. Go for a meander around a local market, where you’ll pick up fresh, seasonal produce before taking it back to the studio, where you’ll join profesh chefs in cooking up a proper Italian-flavoured storm. Bellisimo!

9.  Best of Rome in five hours tour

Don’t you just wish you could squeeze all the best bits of a city into one super tour, that was also super cheap and conveniently quick? Well, you’re in luck as this tour takes you on a five-hour whizz around Rome’s sights: think, Saint Peter's Basilica, the Colosseum and Piazza Navona in the center. Don’t worry about getting tour-hangry, you’ll stop off for culinary treats along the way, too.

10.  City Walk: A small-group tour around the city center

Gape at the flocks of starlings circling the sky from the Spanish Steps and wander through cobbled streets to the stunning Trevi Fountain. This evening stroll brings Rome’s romantic side to life and there will be plenty of photo ops to capture it. 

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Planning a Trip to Rome (2024): Tips & Tricks for Better Experience (+Info for First Visit)

By Author Jurga

Posted on Last updated: January 16, 2024

Planning a trip to Italy and looking for travel tips for Rome ? Read on! In this article, I share simple but very important tips for visiting Rome for the first time. Not only will these tips help you have a more enjoyable trip, but they will also help you make the most of your trip. Find out!

I wrote this post after one of my first trips to Rome. My head was still spinning from all the impressions, my legs were sore and, despite walking more than 46km (29 miles) in three days, I definitely gained a few pounds…

I wanted to share some advice for a  more enjoyable travel experience  in the Eternal City and give you some useful tips on how to get the most out of your time in Rome .

From where and when to go, to where to eat and where to stay, to what shoes to wear – find out all you need to know when planning a trip to Rome so that you can get the most out of your visit and truly enjoy it.

Good to know: This blog with Rome travel tips has been updated after our most recent trips to Rome. We do our best to keep it up-to-date with experience-based tips and insights. I hope that it will help you plan a fun and truly memorable visit to the Eternal City!

Top 4 Tickets You Should Book in Advance:

• Airport Transfer .
• Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel .
• Colosseum & Roman Forum .
• The Pantheon (yes, since recently, you need a ticket here too!).

Rome is a beautiful place! One of the most beautiful cities in Italy and one of the most impressive cities in the world! I often refer to it as the city-museum because it really feels as if you are walking through a huge museum.

Every street, every church, every building breaths history. There’s so much to see in do in Rome and it’s a city like no other, a place everyone should visit, at least once in their lifetime.

Unfortunately, it feels as if everyone is actually visiting Rome at the same time as you are… Rome is crowded . It’s certainly the case for the main tourist sights. Visiting the Trevi Fountain in the middle of the day is really no fun. It’s so busy that it makes many other popular destinations look like a rather quiet experience…

Despite the crowds, there are plenty of ways to enjoy the city. Below are some top tips that should help you make the most of your trip to Rome and have a more enjoyable visit. Read on!

Here are our top Rome travel tips:

1. Book in advance

When traveling to Rome for the first time, you probably have a pretty good idea of what you want to see. The Trevi Fountain, the Pantheon, the Colosseum, the Roman Forum, the Vatican…

You will quickly realize that you are not the only one, however. There are huge crowds at each of the most famous landmarks. Often, it’s so busy that if you don’t think to book well in advance, you may not be able to visit at all.

The tickets to the most popular places – the Colosseum and the Vatican Museums – often get sold out at least a few weeks in advance . So if you absolutely want to visit the Colosseum or see Sistine Chapel, you HAVE to book upfront. In the high season (April – October), be sure to book at least 2-3 weeks in advance. In winter, you might be able to find tickets in the same week as well, but don’t count on it.

Here you can get tickets for the Colosseum and the Vatican Museums .

Also, keep in mind that some places – especially the Vatican – can be closed for some religious celebrations or other occasions. When booking in advance, you’ll immediately see which days are unavailable and will be able to adjust your itinerary if needed . Otherwise, you risk not being to able to visit some places at all…

PRO TIP: If the tickets you want to are sold out, you can usually still visit the place by joining a guided tour. Many tour companies have access to additional tickets, and often, they prebook them long in advance as well. More info about tours and tickets below.

2. Get ‘skip the line’ tickets or go with a guided tour

If you are like most tourists, you have just two or three days in Rome and want to see it all. Do you really want to spend most of your time queuing at the most famous landmarks, wondering where exactly to go and what to see, and completely miss out on the more authentic travel experience?

If you don’t, then you should really consider booking ‘skip the line’ tickets or guided tours.

Otherwise – if you are really short on time – you can also skip some must-see places and only see them from the outside. Spend your time getting to know the city and don’t waste it queuing!

Guided tours might cost you a few extra euros, but considering how much your trip costs, it’s really worth spending that tiny bit extra and getting more out of your time in Rome. After all, your trip to Rome is not cheap and it would be a complete waste of money to spend all your time waiting in lines or visiting a place and getting completely overwhelmed not knowing where exactly to go and what to see…

So save time at the most popular attractions and make the most of your trip!

PRO TIP: This Rome Tourist Card is an easy way to secure timed entry tickets to the most popular tourist attractions in Rome in one place. It includes priority access to the Colosseum, Roman Forum & Palatine Hill, Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel, and more. It’s all digital so really simple to use.

Here are some more tips for visiting two of the most popular attractions in Rome . Take a look!

Tips for visiting Colosseum

Skip the lines at the Colosseum by booking your tickets in advance, take a guided tour, or just see the Colosseum from the outside and don’t go inside at all. 

Don’t skip Colosseum completely, just don’t spend the whole day in line!

The ruins of the Colosseum’s basements are well worth a visit, and so is the Arena Floor and the rest of the Colosseum, but do yourself a favor and research what exactly you want to see and how to best do it in advance ! Otherwise, you’ll get overwhelmed, won’t see everything, and/or end up paying way too much to just be able to get in.

TIP: We recently did and recommend this highly-rated all-in Colosseum tour . After hours of research, it looked like the most complete tour and we were so glad we took it. Yes, it was more expensive than just the entrance tickets, but it saved us so much stress and we saw all the very best places in just 3 hours. And yes, the Underground of the Colosseum and the Arena Floor are absolutely worth it!

PRO TIP: If you visit Colosseum on your own, be sure to book your tickets well in advance ! If you want to visit Colosseum Underground, you will always have to go with a guide. Without a guide, you can choose between regular tickets or – slightly more expensive – tickets that also include a visit to Arena Floor (recommended).

If you get this ticket and go on your own, make sure you don’t miss the entry to Arena Floor! Because if you pass it, you won’t be allowed to turn back (to control the crowds, there’s a one-way ‘flow’ inside). We heard from many people that things might get confusing and that they missed several parts of the Colosseum or thought they would visit them later and then were not allowed to go back. This is also why we personally go with a guide and recommend it to our readers as well.

Good to know: The more in advance you book, the more choice of available time slots you’ll have. On the other hand, Colosseum usually only releases its tickets a month upfront . For that, a guided tour is again a better option since you can usually reserve it several months in advance. Alternatively – on the Tiqets website – you can choose the tickets that you want and the date when you want to visit Colosseum, fill in your email address, and they will send you a reminder as soon as the tickets become available.

READ ALSO: How to Visit Colosseum in Rome (all levels and tickets explained)

Tips for visiting Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel

Visit the Vatican Museums with a guided tour or plan your visit at a quieter time. Do you really want to spend 3 hours queuing and wandering around the Vatican Museums in order to spend 2 minutes inside the Sistine Chapel to see the famous ceiling painted by Michelangelo?

I understand that you want to see the Vatican museums – they are absolutely worth it! Just try to at least plan your visit in such a way that you spend more time at the museums and not waiting to get in or trying to figure out where exactly to go.

Nowadays, you HAVE to book your tickets for the Vatican Museums online . We did this and the entrance was easy and smooth. However, we absolutely regretted not booking a guided visit. The place is crowded, it’s not at all clear where exactly to go and what is worth it the most… In the end, all the routes lead to the Sistine Chapel, so we did get there, but we have no idea what else we missed… Either way, we found a visit really stressful and overwhelming. Next time, I’d absolutely go with a tour.

TIP: Going first thing in the morning (=as soon as it opens) or very late in the afternoon is the best way to visit the Vatican Museums. I would also advise booking a tour with a guide – that way you are sure you actually get to see all the best places. This is the most popular tour of the Vatican Museums, this is a great early-bird option without the crowds (recommended!), and here you can find (an overwhelming) choice of all the available tours of the Vatican.

PRO TIP: If you decide to visit the Vatican Museums on your own, book your tickets well in advance . They often sell out days upfront, not even to mention the high season.

Last-minute Vatican tickets. If you can’t find tickets for the Vatican anymore, check here . Sometimes, they have some last-minute tickets available.

UNIQUE TOUR: If you are looking for an even more special experience and don’t mind to splurge, check out this unique VIP Key Master’s Tour . You enter Vatican Museums about 2 hours before they open to the public and walk together with the Key Master as they open the galleries and Sistine Chapel.

3. Outsmart the crowds

One of the concerns I always hear from people visiting Rome is how to actually enjoy the most popular places if it’s always so busy. The good news is that it is absolutely possible to see some of the most popular landmarks in Rome without the huge crowds IF you plan well. And the best way to do this is to go at the less popular times.

TIP: If you want to avoid the biggest crowds, visit Rome in the lower season (November – March) – more about the best months to visit further below, towards the end of this article. But also in the high season, it’s possible to enjoy some of the main sites without too many other people around.

One of my top travel tips for Rome is to try and visit the most popular places in the city early in the morning . But for some places – going in the afternoon might actually be better. Below are some examples and tips for visiting some of the most popular landmarks in Rome . Take a look!

Best time to visit Trevi Fountain

If you want to see Trevi Fountain without hundreds of other people, get up early! Early morning (no later than 7-7.30 AM) is really the best time to visit the Trevi Fountain without the crowds . However, nowadays, it’s often quite busy in the morning too, especially in the summer season…

Alternatively, go to the Trevi Fountain very late in the evening. It will still be busy – it always is – but it’s nothing compared to the crowds during the day.

Best time to visit the Vatican

Depending on where you go exactly – St. Peter’s or Sistine Chapel – it might be better to come either very early or late. Whatever you do, avoid the busiest daytime hours (10 AM to 2-3 PM).

We’ve been to the Vatican in high season and in low season, in the morning, during the day, and also in the afternoon… It’s always very busy during the day, but can be amazing (very) early in the morning or very late in the afternoon.

During the day, all the streets leading to the Vatican are so crowded that it’s really hard to enjoy a visit. But if you come early in the morning or in the late afternoon, it’s a totally different experience.

For the Vatican Museums , we recommend visiting either as soon as they open or going about 2 hours before the closing time. For St. Peter’s Basilica , the best time to visit is late afternoon.

Even in the high season, we once visited St. Peter’s Basilica at 6 PM and we were inside in less than 10 minutes (security check included)! In the low season, it’s already pretty quiet from about 3-4 PM. Just be sure to check the opening times, especially if you also want to climb the Dome.

Good to know: While you absolutely need to book tickets/tour for the Vatican Museums in advance, the entrance to the Basilica doesn’t require a booking and is free of charge. You do need a ticket to go up to the top of St Peter’s Dome, but it can’t be booked in advance. You’ll have to queue and get the tickets for the Dome when you get there.

Recently, we decided to go with a tour because we wanted to learn more and be sure we saw everything. We took this tour that included the Dome and the Underground and it was really good.

TIP: If you visit St. Peter’s on your own, get an audioguide at the entrance. That way, you’ll get some explanation and have a better idea of what you are seeing in this colossal building.

When to visit the Pantheon

First things first – since recently, you need a ticket in order to visit the Pantheon. It used to be free, but that is no longer the case.

You can get tickets on the official website (which is quite confusing according to many recent reports), on GetYourGuide (very easy and you can cancel up to 24 hours before your visit), or simply stand in line and get them on the spot (even more confusing and there are two lines – one for cash payments and one for card payments – and you never know which one will be shorter).

In order to avoid having to stand in a long queue without any shade for an hour or even longer, we highly recommend getting your tickets online. If you get a fast-track timed-entry ticket , you can go to the ‘online’ queue and enter at the specified time slot.

Good to know: At the moment of the last update, all online bookings (official site too) involve picking up the actual ticket at another location. So be sure to read the instructions carefully!

TIP: If you can, visit the Pantheon first thing in the morning or half an hour before the closing time.

The Pantheon is one of the most popular landmarks in Rome and is extremely crowded. The best way to appreciate it without the biggest crowds is to visit in the morning right after it opens or about half an hour before the closing time.

We once managed to see the Pantheon completely empty by visiting it right before it closed. You have to make sure you are not too late as they don’t let people in just before closing time. But once inside, you can stay until it closes and everyone leaves. Great experience!

Good to know: Nowadays, all online tickets include an audio guide. It’s a great way to learn more about the Pantheon, its history, architecture, and the people buried inside. If you listen to the entire narrative, it takes about half an hour.

Spanish Steps, Piazza Navona & other landmarks

Spanish Steps are probably best visited very early in the morning or late at night. This area is always so busy during the day! Often, you can’t even see the steps because of the number of people there.

The same for the Piazza Navona . It’s beautiful in the morning and late in the evening, but crowded during the day.

If you only have a few days in Rome, skip the busiest museums (=save lots of time) . Capitoline Museums are especially busy, with long queues every time we visit Rome.

If you like art, consider some of the less busy places. For example, the art gallery at Villa Borghese is one of the gems of Rome ( tickets have to be booked in advance ). Alternatively, visit some of the churches instead of museums. Often, you can admire the most amazing pieces of art at the churches for free and without the crowds.

4. Stay close to the Pantheon

If your budget allows, try to find a hotel in the old city center. In my opinion, the best place to stay in Rome is the area close to the Pantheon . The best location is pretty much anywhere between Piazza Navona and Trevi Fountain, with the Pantheon being right in the middle. 

Every time we go to Rome, we always stay close to the Pantheon. It’s so central that you can easily walk to all the main landmarks and visit everything without ever needing to use public transport.

Staying here, you can easily discover most of central Rome on foot. It’s also really simple to visit some of the most popular places in the morning without the crowds. Get up early, walk to Trevi Fountain, the Pantheon, or the Spanish Steps, then go back to your hotel for a relaxing breakfast – it’s a great way to start your day in Rome!

You can find some of the best deals for Central Rome accommodation here . Alternatively, here are some hand-picked hotel suggestions in this area for all budgets:

• €€€€€ Eitch Borromini Palazzo Pamphilj – a very popular 4* hotel overlooking Piazza Navona.
• €€€€ 9HotelCesari – a beautiful 4* hotel with the most beautiful rooftop bar/ restaurant. This is the hotel where we stayed on our last visit to Rome.
• €€€ Albergo Abruzzi – an excellent 3* hotel close to the Pantheon.
• €€ Navona Theatre Hotel – 3* hotel with a very good price/ quality/ location ratio. One of the best sellers in Rome!
• €+ Hotel Primavera – a popular 2* hotel offering good value for the location.

READ ALSO: Where to Stay in Rome: Best Area & Hotels

TIP: There are also lots of hotels, apartments, and short-term rental accommodations in the center of Rome. Take a look at the map below where you can compare various accommodation providers in one place and look for the best deals for your trip.

Simply insert your travel dates and group size and you will see what’s available in the area of your choice. Check it out!

5. Research & book airport transfers in advance

If you are arriving in Rome by plane, you’ll most likely land at the Fiumicino Airport , aka Leonardo da Vinci International Airport. This airport is located about 30 kilometers (18.5 miles) outside the city center and the drive usually takes about 35-45 minutes.

Ciampino Airport is about 15 kilometers (9 miles) from the center, but the drive usually takes almost just as long – over half an hour.

There are many ways to get from these airports to the city; the best option depends on where you are staying, at what time of day you arrive, and, of course, your budget. Either way, you will save time and money by doing some research and booking in advance!

Here are the best Rome airport transport options:

• The easiest way to get from any airport directly to your hotel in Rome is by booking a private transfer . Alternatively, you can take a taxi. The rates they charge are now fixed in order to avoid tourist scams. However, depending on the time of the day, traffic can be busy, not even to mention that there is often a long wait for a taxi (for that, a private transfer is better).
• The fastest, most reliable, and most convenient way to get to Rome city center from Fiumicino airport is by train – Leonardo Express . Trains run every 15-20 minutes from early morning to almost midnight. You get a digital ticket that is valid for any train on the selected day, so you don’t have to worry about having to look for a ticket desk or stress in case your flight is delayed. Also, there are no luggage limits. Round-trip tickets are also available.
• The cheapest way to travel between Fiumicino airport and the city center is by this bus that brings you straight to the central railway station without any stops. This shuttle bus is slightly more expensive and has several stops along the way including the Vatican and Rome Termini central station. There is also a similar shuttle bus transfer to/from Ciampino Airport .

LEARN MORE: Rome Airport Transfers (all the best options from Fiumicino or Ciampino)

6. Get off the beaten path in Rome

If I could give one general piece of advice on how to avoid big crowds in Rome, it would be to go in the opposite direction of where most of the people go! Take a side street, look around, enter a narrow passage, try the closed door of a church…

We visited a couple of amazing places just meters away from the main streets where – literally- thousands of people were passing by focused on their main goal and completely ignorant to all the rest.

Here you can find some ideas for Rome underground sites and the best Ancient Rome landmarks (many of these hardly see any visitors), and also for the best views in Rome .

We also have some great suggestions for some of the nicest off-the-beaten-path, different places to see in Rome in a more detailed guide. Take a look via the link below.

LEARN MORE: Hidden Gems of Rome

7. Avoid tourist restaurants

A big part of any Italian trip experience is related to the food. Food in Italy can be absolutely delicious, but don’t just assume it will be everywhere you go.

If I can give one piece of advice when it comes to food in Rome, it would be to avoid tourist places. Eat where locals eat and avoid restaurants with pictures on the menu!

Usually, restaurants at the busiest tourist landmarks (directly on Piazza Navona, at the Pantheon, or Campo dei Fiori) don’t have the best food. Not to mention that they are often seriously overpriced too.

If you are not sure where to eat, ask your hotel for suggestions, but keep in mind that some hotels might recommend places for other reasons than their quality. The best way to find good places is to check reviews on Google Maps – this is really the easiest way to avoid tourist traps.

TIP: A nice way to get to taste some really good local food is by joining a food tour or a cooking class . If you do this at the beginning of your stay in Rome, you will immediately have a few good addresses of places to eat in the city. Be sure to also ask your tour guide for some local recommendations as well!

Our experience: On our most recent visit to Rome, we booked this amazing street food tour on one of the first days we were in the city. Not only it was a great way to learn the more local side of Rome, but we also tried some absolutely delicious food and got plenty of restaurant ideas for the rest of our stay. Here you can find our review of this street food tour in Rome . Highly recommended!

LEARN MORE: How to Find the Best Food in Rome Best Traditional Food in Italy

8. Take some cash

When visiting Rome (or anywhere in Italy, for that matter), you should always have some cash on you . Italy uses Euro, so you do need Euros, of course.

While in the past credit cards were really unpopular in Rome, the situation has changed a lot recently (probably because of the pandemic). On our most recent visit to Rome, we could use our credit cards pretty much everywhere in the city – all the shops and restaurants accept credit cards and we never really needed cash. Except on a few occasions – see below.

First, taxis – they seem to really hate credit cards. So if you are planning on taking a taxi in Rome, you should always have enough cash. It’s still very difficult to find a taxi driver who will want to take a credit card. ‘Cash, no card’, they’ll tell you. We took a taxi from the airport to the city and couldn’t pay by card. Also our private transfer arranged by the hotel back to the airport only accepted cash, even though the hotel told us that we could pay by card…

If you don’t want to use cash for airport transfers , you can easily pre-book them online in advance . Often, it’s also the cheaper way, depending on where you are going.

Second, street vendors, souvenir shops, and local markets . If you buy something from one of the street vendors, small souvenir shops, or at a local market, you will need cash as well.

And third, tipping . If you are taking tours and want to tip a tour guide, or if you want to leave a small tip at a restaurant, you’ll want to have some cash. Remember that tipping isn’t a must in Europe, but we have a feeling that most Italians appreciate/expect a tip. So we usually tipped about 10% at the restaurant and also some (private) tours.

But apart from this, you can now pay for pretty much everything by card. Even small purchases like gelato at the best gelaterias in Rome can be paid by card. Also museums and other attractions accept credit cards.

All that being said, don’t carry lots of cash with you. 50-100 EUR (ideally in smaller notes) should be plenty. Leave the rest at your hotel and top up when you spend some.

9. Take a bike to get more out of your time in Rome

The old city center of Rome is pretty compact. You can easily walk to the main sights such as Piazza Navona, Pantheon, The Trevi Fountain, and the Spanish Steps. Even the Vatican and the Colosseum are within walking distance from the city center.

However, if you want to explore more of Rome and discover some of the less known hidden gems of the city you may want to consider renting a bike or joining one of the many guided bike tours . By bike, you can cover big distances in less time and get more out of your time in the city.

We recommend the latter – bicycling in Rome is hectic and it’s only fun if you know the city well and know where exactly to go. Guided tours follow routes that they have tried and tested many times before allowing you to truly enjoy the experience.

TIP: If you opt to explore Rome by bike, opt for e-bikes. It’s a hilly city and an electric bike will make it so much easier! This is one of the best-rated bike tours of the highlights in the city center . And this is the AMAZING off-the-beaten-path bike tour that we recently did in Rome (highly recommend).

10. Visit Rome in the lower season

Most travel guides will probably tell you that spring and early autumn is the best period to visit Rome and they are absolutely right. April-May and late September-October are the best months to visit Rome weather-wise. But it’s also extremely busy in that period.

On the other hand, you really want to avoid visiting Rome (or any other cities in Italy for that matter) in summer when temperatures soar to well over 35°C (95°F), often even higher. Furthermore, locals leave the city in the summer, and – especially in August – Rome feels a bit like a theme park with hardly any locals at all.

Once we visited Rome the first weekend of May and with temperatures of just 18-22°C (64-72°F). It was pleasant most of the time and sometimes it even felt too warm.

Another time, we were in Rome at the end of September and it was still HOT during the day. I cannot even try to imagine how hot it feels there in July or August.

Our most recent visit to Rome was at the beginning of November. We did get a few showers one day and one day it was really warm, but for the rest – the weather was perfect for sightseeing. We had temperatures of about 20°C (68°F) most of the time. As for the crowds, it was still very busy at the main landmarks.

Visiting Rome during the cooler months is best if you want to avoid the heat, the crowds, and save some money on accommodation. If you don’t mind a higher possibility of some rain, I recommend the ‘shoulder season’ – end of March – the beginning of April (but avoid Easter!) and the beginning of November. In fact, November can be a great month to visit the bigger cities in Italy. Here you can read about what it’s like to visit Italy in November and here – what to expect when visiting Rome in November .

READ ALSO: Best Time to Visit Europe

11. Wear comfortable shoes & dress respectably

I could have as well put this at the very beginning of this article as one of the most important tips for Rome – wear comfortable shoes!

Don’t underestimate the importance of good footwear when visiting a big city and especially Rome! Rome is a very walkable city, but the distances can add up and you’ll be walking a lot.

If your feet are hurting, you will not be able to enjoy the sights much. So forget about all the ‘Italy is about looking stylish’ advice and pack comfortable shoes. Normally, I don’t really like wearing sports shoes in the city, but sneakers have become very common in Europe in recent years as well. And given the choice, I would always go for the good old comfy sneakers instead of summer sandals with a thin sole…

You can often tell what kind of shoes people are wearing just by looking at the expression on their faces. People who still look happy and are smiling at the end of the day, are usually the ones with the most comfortable footwear.

These days, there are so many comfortable and stylish shoes available that you don’t even need to sacrifice comfort for style.

Another important tip for Rome is to be sure that your shoulders are covered and that you wear respectable clothing . Most churches in Rome don’t allow shorts, mini skirts, or sleeveless shirts. This is also the case when visiting the Vatican.

READ ALSO: Most Beautiful Churches in Italy (+ Tips for Visiting)

12. Pack a water bottle

No matter when you visit Rome – in summer or in winter – you’ll want to carry a bottle of drinking water with you. And while you can buy bottled water in the city, there is absolutely no need to waste money and use more plastic than necessary!

There are more than 2,500 drinking fountains in Rome. The water is fresh, cold, always available, and it’s completely free of charge.

So pack a reusable water bottle and be sure to fill it up every time you pass one of these drinking fountains!

13. Prepare a good itinerary, but don’t overplan

One last piece of advice for visiting Rome – don’t plan every minute of your day in advance, especially if you have more than a day or two in the city.

Yes, it’s important to have an approximate itinerary and pre-book tickets for the main attractions (or you’ll waste too much time and might not even be able to visit at all). But be sure to also allow yourself some time to get off the beaten path and explore some interesting places you’ll come across along the way.

Look around you and you will be amazed to see how many hidden treasures you will find in Rome: the most beautiful churches, wonderful architecture, secret alleys, and little town squares…

All you have to do is keep your eyes open and your mind flexible.

Enjoy your trip!

Suggested itineraries:

• Rome in a Day (how to see all the musts in just 1 day)
• Rome in 2 Days (all the best places + a few hidden gems)
• 4 Days in Rome (amazing itinerary that covers all the main landmarks & and lots of hidden gems)
• You may also like: 2-week Italy Itinerary (covers all the musts in the most efficient way)

READ ALSO: Best Things to Do in Rome

If you found this post helpful, don’t forget to bookmark it and share it with your friends. Are you on Pinterest? Pin this image!

More tips for your trip to Italy:

• Best Places to See in Italy
• Best Things to Do in Venice
• Best Things to Do in Naples
• Best Things to Do in Florence
• Best Things to Do in Milan
• Best Things to Do in Bologna
• Best Things to Do in Siena
• Best Things to Do in Verona
• Best Things to Do in Como
• One Day in Venice
• Milan in One Day
• Amalfi Coast Itinerary
• Most Beautiful Towns in Tuscany
• Cinque Terre vs. Amalfi Coast
• Tips for Cinque Terre
• Emilia Romagna Itinerary
• Hiking in the Dolomites
• Best Places in the Dolomites
• Bellagio, Lake Como
• Varenna, Lake Como
• … For more destinations, please see Italy travel guide .

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Sunday 21st of April 2024

Thank you for the indepth insights. It is wonderful. Any know abouts to consider if traveling with toddler and infants? Is it convenient to take a stroller every where ?

Monday 22nd of April 2024

@Jurga, Thank you very much. The tip to carry lock is great !!

Regards, Noshir

Hi Noshir, the historic center of Rome is rather flat but there are cobbled stones everywhere. And the moment you leave the center, there are also some hills - like the Spanish Steps, for example. So it's not a straightforward answer. You will be able to visit many places with a stroller (with big wheels that can handle cobbled streets), but there are also many places where it won't be easy. Like the Colosseum, for example - you can walk around it with a stroller, but visiting inside won't be easy. That said, we have been to other hillier places in Italy when our kids were in strollers and we managed (with three kids and two strollers - one of them double). But you have to do a bit more research for every place you want to visit. There's also a huge difference when you travel with just one kid/stroller or a couple of young kids and a few strollers. One tip - pack a bicycle lock with you. So that if you have to leave the strollers somewhere, you can lock them up.

Liviu Trimbitas

Friday 23rd of February 2024

Sorry Jurga, me again, We are planing on staying 4 days in Rome, visit the main landmarks, I just can't make up my mind if we should get the Rome Tourist Card or just book individually for each one of those. Thank you, Liviu

Tuesday 27th of February 2024

Hi Liviu, if you mean this Rome Tourist Card, then it has pretty much the same advantages as booking everything individually, but normally, it's a bit cheaper AND you get to choose all tickets/time slots in one place. So it's very convenient, if you want to visit all those places anyway. If, however, you would like to book a guided tour at e.g. Colosseum, then it's better to book individual tickets for the other attractions. But if you are just looking for tickets and want to visit everything on your own, then you can just as well book everything in one go. Hope this helps. Have a great trip!

Hi Jurga, Most comprehensive guide, congratulation and thank you. Liviu

Diki Khiangte

Thursday 8th of February 2024

Hello Jurga Thank you so much for providing a lot of useful information , Italy is my dream destination ever since , my husband and i are planning to visit Rome next month Is it a good time to travel in March?

Saturday 10th of February 2024

Hi Diki, Rome is always a good idea and March is a very nice month for sightseeing, with temperatures around 14-18°C (57-64°F) during the day. It may rain on some days too, so be sure to pack a rain jacket and a sweater. If you are flexible, I would try not to travel too close to Easter because it will be very busy during Holy Week. But if you book everything ahead, you'll be fine. Have a great trip!

Wednesday 7th of February 2024

Hello Jurga Thank you for producing all of this information. We are travelling to Rome in a few weeks time and I have used a lot of your advice for where and when to go and your links for booking some of the attractions. I wondered if you have used any of the Hop-on-hop-off buses in Rome and whether they are worth considering. Thank you

@Jurga, okay, thank you

Hi Michele, as far as I can recall, we never used a hop on hop off bus in Rome. It's such a walkable city - we love walking everywhere. Whether it's worth it... It depends. If you have little time, don't want to walk much, and want to see a lot in a short time without taking the time to visit anywhere inside, then it could be nice to just sit and do the whole tour once. If, however, you want to visit various places, you will likely need several hours at each stop, so it won't be the best use of your bus ticket. Once again, it really depends on what you want to see, how much time you have, and how much walking you want to do. If you haven't seen it yet take a look at our Rome itinerary for 4 days and also for 1 day. That might give you some ideas of how to plan your time.

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19 Best Tours in Rome

By Maresa Manara and Erica Firpo

Vacation tours can be a divisive topic, particularly for people who feel passionately about exploring a city independently. But the truth of the matter is that exploring it with a local by your side will bring you to parts of it you might never find on your own. And no locals have as many stories to tell their city as the Romans. You'll find the most intellectual and personable tour guides to take you around vineyards, through olive groves, on vespa rides, through film studios, food markets, cemeteries, medieval churches, and the most iconic ancient sites. Without further delay, these are our picks for the very best Rome tours.

Click the link to read our complete Rome travel guide.

City Wonders: Ostia Antica Half-Day Tour from Rome Arrow

Ostia Antica is a historic seaside village an hour from Rome and these half-day tours of the coastal archaeological site are well-planned. Groups visit Ostia’s amphitheater, temples, historic baths, and ancient market. Guides seem to have real passion for the subject, talking visitors through the entire tour, peppering their commentary with anecdotes and fun facts. This is a slam-dunk for true history buffs who want to get deeper into the greater Rome area.

Elizabeth Lev: Rome's Historical Center, An All-You-Can-See Smorgasbord of Art Arrow

Elizabeth Lev is something else. Rome is her city, and this tour is her work of art. She has an incredible way of engaging with the history, the art, the monuments, and the stories. You'll find yourself wanting to spend all your time with her. The tour explores the ancient, medieval, Renaissance, and Baroque art periods; and it visits sites like 13th century frescos above the church of Santa Cecilia and art collections behind the facades of the Spada palace. You'll be wowed by all of the layers of the city and how it feels like Rome has been hitting a string of never-ending home runs since antiquity.

Elizabeth Lev: Borrowed but Never Baroque, Bernini & 17th Century Rome Arrow

This tour of Elizabeth Lev's meets up outside the beautiful Piazza della Repubblica . Our group was tiny, but Liz will accommodate larger private groups. She is both an incredible academic brain and a witty storyteller. And her tour shows of the dramatic  range of Baroque art and architecture within Rome. This tour is great for anyone who wants a deep dive into the city's Baroque history, and anyone who wants to appreciate Rome in an experience that's not quite in the guide books.

LivItaly Tours: Vespa Sidecar Tour Arrow

The Vespa Sidecar tour is entirely private and can be customized for return visitors who may have already seen the highlights. It is not, though, a show-up-when-you-want activity. It can be organized for up to six participants, but you'll only be in a group if you choose to be. My tour was perfect because it was just me and the driver/guide Luca.  As a licensed guide, he knows his history, is easy to understand, and is very friendly. He always has a plan, but is quick to change it at the first request. We talked Rome and food and went to all the right places, from big names to more under the radar finds. 

Caitlin Morton

Jessica Puckett

Jamie Spain

Meaghan Kenny

Rome 500 Experience: The 7 Hidden Gems of Rome Tour in an Antique FIAT 500 Arrow

There's a lot of reasons to sign up for this tour through greater Rome, not least is that you get to drive yourself with the top down in a vintage Fiat 500. Another nice perk: Rome's traffic is seriously easier to deal with when traveling in convoy (the group can have up to 50 cars in it). And, as you will get your own car to drive, it can feel like a private tour, although groups are also organized by language, so communication shouldn't be a problem for anyone.  But most importantly, you just look so much better behind the wheel of a classic Italian car.

Top Bike Rental & Tours: Ancient Appian Way, Catacombs, and Aqueducts Park Tour Arrow

This tour will take the better part of your day (it's six hours start to finish). But going by bike to these outer city sites —the old Appian Way via the ancient aqueduct—is the easiest and most entertaining way to see them. Plus you won't want to cut out early: it ends with wine and some nibbles in Caffarella Park, which is so expansive it feels like you're in the countryside even though it's smack in the middle of the greater city. Bikes feel brand new and the confidence of the tour guides will put any nervous riders at ease.

Rome Tram Tracks Tour Arrow

This tour is a rocking dance  party on a vintage tram that rumbles through Rome. It lasts two hours, during which you'll cut up the dance floor, drink, and cheer as you roll past some of Rome's most iconic sites . This is really an evening activity for those who don't just want to go get dinner somewhere in town. The greatest part, however, may have been how the senior citizens on our ride managed to upstage all the thirty- and forty-year olds on the dance floor.

Casa Mia Tours: Rome Cinema & Food Arrow

Rome has a rich history of cinema, and while you could take any tour with any guide, there is nothing quite like seeing its cinematic history with Eleonora Baldwin, Cinecittà Studios veteran and granddaughter of famed director Vittorio de Sica, four-time Academy Award winner and father of Italian cinema. This tour is both Rome's history and Eleonora's story, and she is so passionate that it will make you want to spend all day with her, and all night watching films. There are only three requirements—a pair of comfy shoes, an empty stomach, and a reservation.

Non-Catholic Cemetery Tour Arrow

You should always visit the truly Roman neighborhood of Testaccio when in Rome, but this tour of its historic non-Catholic Cemetery gives you reason to stay in the area after you've hit its prime trattorias. It's a beautiful, unusually tranquil space, filled with bougainvillea and museum-worthy sculptures in the middle of the city. The informative guides will school you on the cemetery's 400-year history as you amble past the tombstones of Keats, Percy Shelly, and other famous expats.

Context Travel: Fall and Rise of Rome Arrow

This historical tour starts at a medieval church in San Clemente and ends at the church of SS. Giovanni e Paolo. Its chronology spans from the Roman Empire's fall to the Renaissance's beginnings. The guide Philip was total pro. He's an archaeologist with a great sense of humor and passion for every site. He knew exactly what to show me and could even point out where to stand so I had the best understanding of the sights. People who enjoy Roman, religious, and art histories will  love this tour. It's also a great opportunity for people who have already seen the main tourist attractions to see some gems off the beaten path.

The Roman Guy: Cocktail Bars in Rome, Evening Walking Tour Arrow

This English-speaking tour will take you to some of Rome's most popular bars, including Trastevere's Freni e Frizioni , with stop offs to major attractions along the way. Plus, company founders Sean and Brandon are always quick to offer tips on the best spots for gelato or pizza in the city as you pass by for that next negroni. It’s actually a fantastic way to experience life in Rome with locals—far more relaxing that spending time trying to avoid tourist traps. 

Katie Parla: Vineyard Visit to Cantina Ribelà Arrow

Sommelier Maurizio di Franco meets you at your hotel and accompanies you via hired car to Cantina Ribelà while enchanting you with a bit of Lazio history and winemaking background on Ribelà. Maurizio is a certificated sommelier, and it doesn't hurt that he's also super charming. His love of wine is contagious, he tells great stories, and his patience is wonderful. At the winery you'll be struck be the natural beauty of the landscape, close as it is to a city as big as Rome. 

LivItaly Tours: Virtual Reality Tour of the Colosseum and Domus Aurea Arrow

Imagine if you could physically see the sites, monuments, and reference points that tour guides bring up when ushering you around a city as ancient as Rome. This virtual reality tour lets you, by creating enhanced versions of the way the Eternal City appeared during the days of the empire, all visible through the glasses you'll wear as you make your way through the Roman Forum and Colosseum .

Vatican Museums: “Out of Hours” Guided Tour, Good Morning Vatican Museums Arrow

There is nothing like opening the doors to an empty Sistine Chapel . The exclusive private Out of Hours Good Morning Vatican tour must be booked months in advance and is subject to permission of the Vatican. You will be greeted by Vatican personnel and escorted through the complex by the Clavigero, holder of the 300 keys of the Vatican Museums. This is a once-in-a-lifetime experience and it does begin quite early in the morning. At 6 a.m. you and no more than 19 others will accompany the Clavigero to open the doors of the Vatican Museums.  

Johnny Madge: Olive Oil Tours Arrow

You'll have to trek well outside the city (close to an hour) to reach the olive groves in the Sabina country, but it's well worth the trip. Johnny Madge is an olive oil authority , judging competitions all over the world and this is his backyard. He clearly loves it, and that love is contagious. Tourees will learn to distinguish extra virgin olive oil from everything else and importantly that you do not drizzle oil on your food. You pour it. This  is best for foodies who want to get out of the city and deep dive in Roman food. 

Le Domus Romane di Palazzo Valentini: Multimedia Tour Arrow

The Domus Romane are ancient Roman villas and other structures, abandoned in antiquity, filled in with debris, and inadvertently used as foundations for Palazzo Valentini, a Renaissance palace turned government office building. They are now underground, obscured by buildings and pavement just beside Piazza Venezia. On this tour, in situ multimedia renderings recreate an Imperial Rome domus, as well as some aspects of Roman life. The guides are actual archaeologists, and the fact-checked audio is delivered cleanly. These language-specific multimedia tours are popular though, and must be booked in advance.

Tavole Romane Food Tours: The Rome Food Walking Tour Arrow

Think of Tavole Romane, the food-and-wine-focused walking tour of Rome, as getting access to the little black book of those who know the city's food scene best. Owners Gabriele and Silvia customize the tours based on the interests of each intimate group, which could mean wine bars in Trastevere or an aperitivo-heavy hop through the centro storico, led by somms, chefs, or another tapped in member of Rome's food scene.

Latteria Studio: Market to Table Arrow

This market tour and cooking class began with a wonderful walk through the market to Latteria Studios, a functional cooking studio and photo set. Alice, Rachel, and Carla, who head up the activities, are real professionals. They know everyone at the market, and they know all about food. Sitting at the table at the end of day fosters a real sense of community with what may have been a group of strangers from different countries and continents. You'll immerse yourself in Rome and make new friends at the same time. 

Cinecittà Studios: VIP Tour Arrow

This is your chance to see the studio that was once home to Fellini and Leone. It's still a working studio though, so you'll need to follow the guide's itinerary to the letter. She will know about Cinecittà though: its history, and its film productions, and its famous alumni. Also, Cinecittà owns every set that was built on the lot. Master artisans created them all—ancient Rome, a 1940s submarine, and fantastical, imagined worlds. They perfectly accurate to their settings, as well as pristinely preserved.

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14 things to know before visiting Rome in 2024

Feb 27, 2024 • 9 min read

Rome can seem imposing to first-time visitors, but with these tips, you'll be all set in no time © TFILM / Getty Images

I first visited Rome in 1992, and my love for the city has only grown since. I wrote my first book about the city in college and rarely a year goes by since then when I don’t visit my favorite piazza ( Navona ), enjoy my favorite gelato ( cioccolato e limone con panna ) or gaze upon my favorite art (Raphael’s Stanze …among many others).

Even though my love for  Rome  runs deep, I can see why it seems imposing to first-time visitors and that's why I'm here to help you. Enjoying the Eternal City and all its myriad nuances is much easier than many people think. Here are my essential things to know for anyone lucky enough to be headed for magnificent, wonderful Roma.

1. Pick your moment for key attractions

Rome gets crowded, and some sights like the Vatican museums are both overwhelming in scale and overwhelmed with other visitors. Many a tourist has lapsed into a stupor as they wander the nearly 7km (4.5 miles) of corridors. By the time they finally reach the Sistine Chapel , they gaze up at Michelangelo’s fantastic ceiling in a daze and are out the other side before having time to enjoy it.

But with a bit of planning , you can avoid the most crowded times at the Vatican Museum. Visit Tuesdays and Thursdays; Wednesday mornings are good, too, though the afternoon is better than the morning. Monday is an especially bad day to visit as other museums in Rome are closed (instead, use the day for exploring the city’s streets, squares, back alleys and parks).

Across Rome, weekends are always busier at attractions as tourists are joined by Romans enjoying the sights on their days off.

2. Aim to spend at least three days in Rome

Start your trip at the Colosseum , Rome’s ancient amphitheater. Early risers need not get gladiatorial as long queues only start to form around mid-morning, at which point you’ll be poking around the Palatino , breathing in the majesty of the once-powerful palace and its perfumed pine trees before roving around the ruins of the Roman Forum .

A well-earned espresso should be enjoyed among the cobbled streets of Centro Storico (try Caffè Sant'Eustachio ) and then sweeten the coffee by pre-booking tickets to the Vatican – home not only to the Pope but a myriad of masterpieces including the Sistine Chapel. Visitors who are first in line at the Vatican will also be at the head of the line at Bonci Pizzarium when it opens for lunch. Nothing recharges your sightseeing energy like a slice of the city’s best pizza, still warm from the oven.

Of course, Rome has plenty more museums to offer, but it’s also a living city offering la dolce vita. Indulge by strolling through the designer boutiques of Via del Corso stopping only to stoop into the devilishly cool Salotto 42 for one of the city’s very best cocktails.

3. Buy tickets in advance

You’ve mastered the Metro and finally reached your sight of choice, only to discover a guide ahead of you in the line for tickets, methodically – and slowly – buying tickets for 40 people. Or you discover that a few hundred others are already in the queue. While you wait in the hot sun for your turn, you feel a prime chunk of your day ticking away.

However, you can easily avoid all this by buying in advance online. The Vatican museums are a perfect example of where you’ll feel the joy as you walk past the waiting masses and breeze in. For any major sight in Rome, it’s always worth checking the website for advance ticket sales. Note that some unmissable attractions, like the Museo e Galleria Borghese , or special tours, like the secret castle tours at Castel Sant’Angelo , require an advance ticket as admissions are limited to avoid overcrowding.

4. Prioritize your favorites and don't forget to wander

Decide which of the unmissable top sights you’ll most enjoy and face the fact that you won't get to see everything on your first trip to Rome. Any attempt to "do" places like the Vatican or the Forom in a rush will leave you unsatisfied and stressed – these are incredible experiences that are worth your time.

And always leave extra time for wandering, café sitting and people-watching. It’s one of the true highlights of Roman life.

5. Know what to miss 

Have the self-awareness to know your limit on churches. Yes, some would cry sacrilege, but if you’re standing in some world-famous house of god and you can’t remember which one you’re in because it’s looking a lot like the previous ten, then it’s better just to pick a couple  and focus on those. Plus, you’ll have something new to see on your next trip.

6. Skip the Spanish Steps (or at least don’t sit down)

The Spanish Steps – a nice stone staircase with good views, yes, but a reason to go out of your way, no. Tourist traps, touts and fast-food jostle for space in this neighborhood. Give it a miss. And if you do go, don’t sit down! Fines are issued by police for those who dare use the steps as a seat.

7. Swerve Bocca della Verità too

Bocca della Verità , an old stone carving of a lion head with a mouth that’s been pawed by millions of sweaty fingers. Every country seems to have one of these (hello Blarney Stone !), right down to a magical legend; in this case, the lion will bite your hand if you tell a lie. Uh-huh.

8. Book your table in advance

Some of Rome’s most vaunted restaurants fill out their reservations list weeks in advance, so it pays to book tables before you arrive. No matter if your travel style is loose and easygoing, it’s always a good idea to reserve your table in advance, even if it's just a couple of hours before your meal (assuming there are still tables available).

Having a reservation is one of those intangibles that’s essential in practice. Roman restaurants give more respect to people arriving with a booking as opposed to mere walk-ins – even when there are plenty of available tables.

9. Break bread like a Roman

Most restaurants open from noon to 3pm and 7:30pm to 11pm, usually closing one day per week (often Sunday or Monday). In August, most eateries close for at least a week, although some close for the entire month.

Other essential tips:

• Bite through hanging spaghetti – no slurping it up, please.
• Pasta is eaten with a fork (no spoon).
• It’s OK to eat pizza with your hands when you’re getting it to go – in restaurants, people usually use a knife and fork.
• Like any Italian grandma, fare la scarpetta (make a little shoe) with your bread to wipe plates clean. 
• Yes, there are vegan restaurants in Rome these days too.

10. Try to keep up: know when and how to dress to impress

Roman style is world-renowned, and there’s no better way to escape the tourist cliche than to dress with panache, especially when going out to celebrated restaurants and clubs. Let sharp and smart be your bywords in this, and don’t underestimate what you can achieve with travel-friendly black and eye-catching accessories.

Also, know that by day, and when you’re out in the neighborhoods, dapper casual is the rule. Still, there’s never a time when you’ll want to wear a sweatshirt, goofy shorts, hiked-up socks and the like – unless it’s your signature look and you can pull it off!

11. Be aware of laws that are specifically for tourists

Picking up the trash is an ongoing and seemingly eternal challenge for Rome, but efforts are being made on other fronts to try to bring some order. In 2019, a series of laws were introduced to reign in the excesses of the visiting masses. People caught breaking these rules risk fines of up to €500 or a temporary ban on entering the area in which they caused the offense. Among the restrictions:

• Sitting on the Spanish Steps is forbidden.
• No wading in the city’s fountains.
• No “messy” outdoor eating near historic monuments.
• No walking around bare-chested.
• No dragging strollers or wheelie suitcases up or down historic staircases.
• When drinking from the public drinking fountains known as nasoni , don’t place your lips on the spout – drink from your cupped hands.

12. Be polite and observe the local formalities

Italy is quite a formal society, and the niceties of social interaction are observed. Greet people in bars, shops, trattorias, etc, with a buongiorno (good morning), buon pomeriggio (good afternoon) or buonasera (good evening). 

Say mi scusi (excuse me) to attract attention or ask for help. Use permesso (permission) to pass someone in a crowded space and always cover up at churches (that means shoulders and legs).

14. Health and safety in Rome

Rome has no inherent health hazards beyond the bloating that comes from wildly excessive food (and gelato) intake. But we have a few tips that will keep you feeling tip-top.

Stay hydrated. It gets hot in summer, especially out in the open air of places like the Forum. Carry a water bottle, drink copious amounts and keep it filled at the many public drinking water fountains.

Ancient cobblestones, long staircases and hours spent wandering are just some of the features that will tire you out. Wear shoes with excellent support and cushioning.

13. Keep your wits about you

Rome is generally a safe city, but petty theft is a real risk. Use common sense and watch your valuables. Pickpockets and thieves are active in touristy areas such as the Colosseum, Piazza di Spagna , Piazza Venezia and St Peter’s Square .

Stay alert around the chaotic Termini train station and on crowded public transport – the 64 Vatican bus is notorious. Keep your wallets, phones and valuables out of reach of pickpockets – a wallet bulging in your back pocket won't remain there for long.

In case of theft or loss, always report the incident to the police within 24 hours and ask for a statement. The emergency number for the police (Carabinieri) is 112. Make sure you never drape your bag over an empty chair at a streetside cafe or put it where you can’t see it.

Beware of gangs of kids or others demanding attention. If you’ve been targeted, take evasive action and/or shout " Va via!"  ("Go away!").

This article was first published Jan 16, 2022 and updated Feb 27, 2024.

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5 Days in Rome: The Perfect Itinerary (First Time Visitors)

How to spend 5 days in rome: the best itinerary + where to stay.

You’re planning to spend 5 days in Rome and you’re looking for the best things to do?

You’re at the right place!

In order to help you plan your stay , I have prepared for you this 5-day itinerary in Rome.

I will start with my best tips to save time and avoid waiting in line in front of Rome’s must-see attractions. Then, I will give you the day by day program, perfectly optimized to make the most of your stay.

In addition to the best places to visit and activities for each stage of your itinerary, I will also give you all my best tips and accommodation suggestions depending on your budget.

So, what are the best places to visit in Rome in 5 days? Where to stay?

Let’s find out!

1. Rome Tourist Card

2. the omnia card, 5 days in rome: must-see attractions:, one last tip for a perfect 5-day stay in rome, a. the colosseum, b. palatine hill, c. the roman forum, d. piazza del campidoglio / capitoline museums, e. piazza venezia / the monument to victor emmanuel ii, a. visit the vatican museums and the sistine chapel, b. st. peter’s basilica, c. castel sant’angelo, a. piazza navona, b. the pantheon, c. the trevi fountain, d. via condotti, e. the piazza di spagna, f. villa borghese, a. campo di fiori market, b. the trastevere neighborhood, c. the aventine hill, d. the catacombs of rome, b. pompeii and vesuvius, c. visit to tivoli, where to stay in rome, 5 days in rome with your family, more things to do during your 5 days in rome, map of your 5-day itinerary in rome, 5 days in rome: flight prices, you’re traveling in italy these articles will help you, how to avoid waiting in line (and save a lot of time) at rome’s tourist attractions.

As you probably know, Rome is one of the most touristic cities in the world.

No matter why you’re planning to visit Italy ‘s capital, you will sometimes need to wait in line for a few hours in front of the most emblematic monuments such as the Colosseum or Saint Peter’s Basilica.

But…. that was before reading my travel guide!

Hopefully, I have a few tips that will help you make the most of your stay, so I will tell you right away the 3 best ways to save time during your 5-day trip to Rome!

The first solution to save time during your 5-day itinerary is to purchase the “Rome Tourist Card” , also called “Rome City Pass”.

100% digital , the city pass is sent to you by email: there is no need to go get any physical ticket in Rome.

You will directly have access to all your skip the line tickets for Rome’s most famous tourist attractions!

Here is what’s included in the Rome Tourist Card:

• Colosseum ticket with audio guide + Roman Forum + Palatine Hill (visit of the first day of this itinerary)
• Ticket for St. Peter’s Basilica with audio guide (you will visit the basilica during the second day)
• Visit to the Vatican Museum and Sistine Chapel (this visit is offered as an option when you book the pass. You should take it as it’s part of the second day of this itinerary)
• 10% discount on museums (Castel Sant’Angelo, Borghese Gallery), guided tours (Guided tour to the catacombs, Rome by bike) and excursions in Rome’s surroundings, in case you plan to continue your 5-day trip to Rome and visit another major Italian city (Florence, Pisa, Venice …).

To purchase your Rome Tourist Card, simply click on the button below:

The 2nd solution to save time when visiting Rome’s most popular attractions is to buy the Omnia Card , also called “Rome and Vatican Pass”.

Just like the Rome Tourist Card mentioned above, the Omnia Card is a great way to avoid queuing at the Colosseum or St peter’s Basilica. However, it’s only valid for 3 consecutive days from its first activation. So you won’t be able to use it after the end of the 3rd day of your trip.

But don’t worry, when planning this itinerary, I made sure that the paid visits included in the Omnia Card are all done during the first 3 days.

So this is not a problem, the Omnia Card is still perfect for a 5-day trip to Rome!

On day 4 and 5, you will mostly do free visits and /or tours or excursions around Rome that are anyway not included in the City Passes.

Here are the main things you will get with the Omnia Card:

• Priority entrance to the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel (2nd day of this itinerary)
• Ticket to visit St. Peter’s Basilica + audio guide (2nd day also)
• Visit to St. Peter’s Prison with audio guide
• Entrance to the Basilica of St. John Lateran and the cloister + audio guide
• The Colosseum (Day 1 )
• Palatine Hill and Roman Forum (also on day 1)
• Castel Sant’Angelo (2nd day)
• Borghese Gallery
• Capitoline Museums
• Free access to all public transportation in Rome for 3 days
• Discounts for other activities and museums
• 1 ticket for Rome’s Hop-on Hop-off tourist bus

You’re hesitating between the Omnia Card and the Rome Tourist Card?

It’s very simple, you will just have to decide if you want to take public transportation and what you want to visit:

• You don’t want to use public transportation or visit the entire Vatican? Then the Rome City Pass is cheaper for your 5 days in Rome.
• You plan to take the bus and want to visit as much of the Vatican as possible? The Omnia Card is the best choice.

To visit Rome in a few days, the Omnia Card is the most complete City pass!

To get your Omnia Card , simply click on the green button below:

3. Skip the line tickets for Rome’s best tourist attractions

For your 5-day itinerary in Rome, if you don’t want to purchase a City Pass, you can instead purchase skip the line tickets for each attractions you will want to visit.

For more information and to book your skip the line tickets, simply click on the orange links below:

• The Colosseum
• St. Peter’s Basilica
• The Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel
• Castel Sant’Angelo
• The Capitoline Museums
• The Pantheon
• St. John Lateran Basilica
• Villa Borghese
• Hop-on Hop-Off tourist bus
• Rome’s catacombs

Be careful of where you buy your tickets from!

To book tickets, guided tours and activities in Rome, you should always book on one of these 2 websites (the ones I always use):

• Getyourguide

They are reliable and safe, selling only official tickets. You should bookmark them!

If you already know your travel dates (or as soon as you will have them!) , you should really book your accommodation.

As Rome is one of the most touristic cities in the world , the hotels offering the best value for money are often fully booked months in advance.

As a seasoned traveler, I can assure you that it’s always by planning as far in advance as possible that I’ve found the best hotels or apartments deals.

You agree that it would be a shame to somewhat ruin your stay in Rome by ending up in a not-so-great hotel that costed you a fortune, right? 😅

So your best bet is to take 5 minutes now to have a look at  traveler’s favorite hotels in Rome.

And if you like one of the hotels you find, book it!

It’s fast, it’s easy and most accommodation offer free cancellation. That’s the best way to protect yourself from the inconvenience of finding nothing but mediocre rooms at exorbitant prices.

To check the best hotels deals in Rome, simply click on the green button below:

After securing your dream stay, it’s time to continue reading this guide!

5 Days in Rome: The Best Itinerary

Let’s now start your 5-day itinerary in Rome!

For each day, I will give you all the details you need to plan your visits + a map that will allow you to visualize the itinerary a bit better.

I’m assuming you will be staying in Rome for 5 full days and that you will be using the Rome Tourist Card / Omnia Card or have purchased skip-the-line tickets . It’s the best way to save time and money during your 5-day stay!

If you still have questions after reading this guide (or need help organizing your holiday), don’t hesitate to ask me in the comments section located at the very end of this article.

I will be glad to help you plan your trip to Rome 😄.

Day 1 – The Ancient Rome

The visits of day 1:

A. The Colosseum B. The Roman Forum C. Palatine Hill D. Piazza del Campidoglio / The Capitoline Museums E. Piazza Venezia / The monument to Victor Emmanuel II

The Colosseum , the most famous monument of the city, is the ideal place to start your 5-day trip to Rome.

With a capacity of over 50 000 spectators, the Colosseum was the largest amphitheater in ancient Rome. Quite much blood was shed in this arena, where the famous gladiatorial combats, animals fights and Roman games were held, often followed by horrific deaths.

However, it’s less known, but the Colosseum also hosted theatrical performances or reconstructions of famous battles.

In spite of a few missing parts, the Colosseum is still standing and is very impressive! You can visit the first and second floors, the arena and the underground .

As you can imagine, the Colosseum of Rome attracts thousands of tourists every day , and they wait in line for hours before entering the monument. But that’s because they didn’t read Voyage Tips before planning their visit!

As I have mentioned above, you should really purchase your Colosseum Tickets in advance.

Please note 2 important things:

• The tickets for the Colosseum also give you access to the Roman Forum and the Palatine Hill .
• If you purchase the Rome Tourist Card or the Omnia Card , the entrance ticket to the Colosseum is included.

In order to help you find your way around all the different tickets, I have prepared a list of all tickets for the Colosseum (click here) .

As all tickets for the Colosseum are not always available (for a given date, there is a limited number of tickets of each type , and they are sold out very quickly!), the orange links take you directly to the page with all Colosseum tickets.

Simply choose the one that suits you best on that page.

Of course, if you already know your travel dates, book quickly to ensure you can visit the monument.

To summarize, the best ticket in my opinion is the “ Colosseum + Arena + Roman Forum + Palatine Hill”:

If you want to learn everything about the fascinating history of the Colosseum, you should o pt for the following guided visit:

Guided tour: Colosseum + Roman Forum + Palatine Hill

And if you have no budget restrictions, I highly recommend you to take the VIP guided tour : VIP Guided Tour: Colosseum (+ Underground + Arena) + Roman Forum + Palatine Hill.

It will allow you to access exclusive places like the arena or the underground of the Colosseum!

You won’t visit Rome every day, and that’s the best guided tour to the Colosseum and my personal choice:

As I have mentioned above, your ticket to the Colosseum will grant you access to the two other sites located nearby: the Palatine Hill and the Roman Forum .

So, let’s continue your day by visiting the Palatine Hill!

According to the Roman mythology, this is the place where the city was founded by Romulus and Remus.

At the top of Palatine Hill , you will have access to the cave where the twins were raised by a she-wolf as well as to the house of Augustus, the first Roman emperor.

You will be able to walk freely among the ruins and discover a superb view from the top of the hill.

After Palatine Hill, continue your immersion in ancient Rome by visiting the Roman Forum located a few meters away.

This is the third site you shouldn’t miss during your 5 days in Rome!

The Roman forum was the heart of the ancient Rome . There, you will be able to admire ruins of administrative buildings, the ancient market and several temples.

In my opinion, you should really opt for the guided tour I talked about a bit earlier, because unfortunately, there are no explanatory panels on site. To book your guided tour, simply click here!

Let’s continue your 5-day tour in Rome and go to the Piazza del Campidoglio , 15 minutes walk from the Roman Forum.

This part of Rome was the political and religious heart of the ancient Rome.

This beautiful square was designed by Michelangelo himself and features several impressive buildings: the Palazzo dei Senatori, the Palazzo dei Conservatori and the Palazzo Nuovo

These 3 palaces are known as the “ Capitoline Museums “ and they house several very famous works of art, including paintings by Tintoretto and Caravaggio, as well as the famous statue of the She-wolf suckling Romulus and Remus.

After visiting the Capitoline Museums, walk to Piazza Venezia located only 5 minutes away.

This is the main crossroads of the city center, you can recognize it at first glance thanks to the Victor Emmanuel II monument located on one side of the square.

It’s also there that you can admire the Trajan column and its engravings representing the military exploits of the emperor.

The streets starting from Piazza Venezia will lead you to the places you will visit during your 5-day stay in Rome.

Second day – Visit to the Vatican

Day 2 visits:

A. The Vatican Museums and the Sistine Chapel B. St. Peter’s Basilica C. Castel Sant’Angelo

Today, you will visit the Vatican.

T his tiny country (the smallest in the world!) enclosed in the Italian capital is a must-see during your five-day itinerary in Rome.

You should start your day with a visit to the Vatican museums. As this museum complex is huge (13 museums!), you should follow one of the predefined itineraries for your visit.

They last from 1h30 to 5 hours and allow you to discover several museums depending on your interests.

All the itineraries will end at the same place: the famous Sistine Chapel!

Take some time to soak up the atmosphere of the place and admire the magnificent paintings , including the famous Sistine Chapel ceiling painted by Michelangelo.

To visit the Vatican museums, you should really book your tickets in advance to avoid wasting hours queuing!

To get your Vatican Museums tickets, you need to click on the button below, or you can enter directly if you have the Omnia Card or the Rome Tourist Card .

After a good lunch in one of the restaurants surrounding the Vatican, let’s continue your 5-day itinerary in Rome by visiting St. Peter’s Basilica , the largest church in the world.

Located in St. Peter’s Square, St. Peter’s Basilica is one of the most visited monuments in the world.

When you enter the basilica, you will be surprised by the size of the place. There, you can admire the baroque decorations , the statue of St. Peter, the huge dome designed by Michelangelo and the vaults of the popes.

The entrance is free, however the queues to get in are always endless !

So you should really book a skip the line ticket , else you will waste half of your afternoon waiting in line. They can be bought below:

St. Peter’s Basilica skip the line ticket + Audio Guide

Guided tour of St. Peter’s Basilica (skip the line) + dome + crypt (the most complete!)

To enjoy a beautiful panoramic view of the surroundings, you can climb to the top of the dome (included in the ticket mentioned above!).

It’s now time to leave St. Peter’s Square and walk down Via della Conciliazione.

After about 10 minutes, you will arrive in front of Castel Sant’Angelo , built under the orders of Emperor Hadrian. This castle was later used as a refuge for the popes during enemy attacks.

You can visit the interior of Castel Sant’Angelo and discover the former apartments of the popes, ancient tombs, as well as some of the ancient weaponry used to defend the castle.

Don’t forget to do the short walk around the castle’s wall , it offers beautiful views!

The visit takes 1 to 2h.

When you leave the castle, don’t miss the Saint Angelo bridge, located just in front of it. It goes over the Tiber river and allows you to enjoy a nice view of the river and the city.

It’s the perfect place to end the second day of your 5-day trip to Rome.

You need to book your ticket to visit the castle by clicking on the button below:

Day 3 – Stroll through the historic center

Day 3 visits:

A. Piazza Navona B. The Pantheon C. The Trevi Fountain D. Via del Corso / Via Condotti E. The Piazza di Spagna F. Villa Borghese

For the 3rd day of your 5-day itinerary in Rome, you will visit the historic center of the city.

I suggest you to start from Piazza Navona , one of the most beautiful squares in the Italian capital. It’s the ideal place to have a good breakfast in one of the picturesque cafés located on the square.

Then, take some time to walk around the square, watch the street performances and admire the 3 beautiful fountains and their statues.

Next you should visit the Pantheon , another monument you shouldn’t miss during your stay in Rome.

Located a few meters from Piazza Navona, it dates back to ancient Rome and houses the tombs of Emperor Victor Emmanuel II , the painter Rafael and many other historical figures that I’ll let you discover.

While there, don’t forget to look up to contemplate the dome and the Occulus letting the day light through.

Since July 2023, access to the Pantheon has been subject to a charge and requires an admission ticket (cost: €5) . To visit, you should book your ticket on the official website .

And if you want to get more historical information , it’s better to get the fast track ticket + audioguide by clicking here:

And for more detailed explanations, you can also choose a guided tour of the Pantheon by clicking here!

The most famous fountain in Europe that attracts millions of tourists every year, the Trevi Fountain, is just a 10-minute walk from the Pantheon .

Most tourists visiting Rome go there to take pictures of this beautiful work of art and throw coins to see their wishes come true!

The statue of the God Neptune overlooking the basin is very well highlighted by the baroque monument located just behind the fountain.

During your 5-day stay in Rome, you will also probably want to do a bit of shopping!

To do so, leave the Trevi fountain and take Via del Corso , one of the main shopping street in Rome. It’s the place to go if you’re looking for the big brands like H&M.

If you’re rather looking for luxury brands like Prada or Gucci, you should continue a bit further on Via Condotti.

Even if you don’t like shopping, you should still head toward Via Condotti, as it’s on the way to the next place you will visit.

At the end of Via Condotti, you will arrive at the Piazza di Spagna (litterally “Spain Square”, sometimes named “The Spanish Steps” in English). It should not be confused with the “Plaza de España” located in Seville .

This pretty and picturesque cobbled square is located at the foot of the grand staircase that leads to Trinità dei Monti church.

In my opinion, the Pizza di Spagna represents the Italian “dolce vita” very well. Stop for a picture, relax or enjoy a good snack before heading to your next visit.

From the Spanish Steps, walk for a few minutes to arrive at Villa Borghese and its garden.

Villa Borghese gardens are probably the most beautiful public park in the city.

There, you can walk through the alleys and discover the fountains, statues, a lake, a botanical garden , and a few museums to visit :

• The Borghese Gallery, famous for its collection of paintings and sculptures. Buy your skip the line tickets here!
• The National Etruscan Museum , housing pre-Roman objects and jewelry
• The National Gallery of Modern and Contemporary Art , featuring paintings by Van Gogh and Cézanne.

Day 4 – Discover Rome districts

Day 4 visits:

A. Campo di Fiori market B. Trastevere district C. The Aventine hill D. The catacombs of Rome

For your 4th day in Rome , I’d like to take you off the beaten path and away from the super touristy attractions.

Yes, when spending 5 days in Rome, the great thing is that you will have some free time to explore some of the lesser known areas of the city!

Start by visiting Campo di Fiori market located in the historic center. This very authentic market is open every morning except Sunday and is one of the cheapest in Rome.

It’s a good opportunity to do some shopping and bring Italian products back home.

If you want to discover the best of Italian food, you should opt for a food guided tour!

During this street food tour, your guide for the day will make you try amazing local products while telling you more about Italian gastronomy.

This tour is so good that you will get a full refund if you are not satisfied!

To book the best food tour in Rome, simply click on the button below:

The Trastevere neighborhood is located on the right bank of the Tiber , not far from the Vatican.

In Trastevere, there are no historical monuments to visit, but cobblestone streets, flower gardens, small typical squares, cafes and artisan stores .

You will for sure love to stroll around this authentic district, not very frequented by tourists (even if it’s becoming more and more popular, I won’t hide it from you).

And if you want to enjoy a magnificent panoramic view of Rome , don’t forget to climb to the top of Janiculum hill, in the north of the neighborhood.

Continue this fourth day in Rome with the Aventine Hill , located about 20-minute walk from Trastevere district (or 10 minutes by bus).

This peaceful hill with many gardens and pretty alleys also offers a great view over Rome.

There, you can:

• Visit the Basilica of Santa Sabina
• Unravel the mystery of the Piazza dei Cavalieri di Malta . Why is everyone waiting their turn to look through the keyhole of this door? I’m not going to spoil it for you! It’s up to you to try and find out the answer 😇.

To end this day on an unusual note, you can visit the catacombs of Rome.

Saint Calixtus catacombs are the largest (15 hectares!) and were once used as a cemetery for Jews and Christians.

In the catacombs, you can see several tombs and scenes of life engraved on the walls. The guided tour is mandatory and lasts about 30-40 minutes. Click here to book it!

You can also visit the catacombs of Saint Sebastian, Domitilla, Priscilla and the crypt of the Capuchins .

The crypt of the Capuchins is located next to the Trevi Fountain and is the easiest to reach. If you want to visit the Capuchins, you need to buy your tickets directly here.

Day 5 – Day trip around Rome

Spending 5 days in Rome gives you time to get out of the city and explore the surroundings for a full day.

So for your last day in Rome, you should go for a day trip!

Here are my 3 favorite day trips from Rome:

A. Pompeii B. Pompeii and Vesuvius C. Tivoli

Pompeii , near Naples, is probably the most famous ancient Roman city.

It’s also one of the best place to visit around Rome!

Pompeii was engulfed by lava in 79 AD during the eruption of Mount Vesuvius and still bears witness to the ancient Roman civilization.

During your visit, you will take a real trip back in time: Streets, buildings and even bodies were extremely well preserved by the volcanic ash.

For the last day of your stay in Rome, you can discover this mythical city buried and rediscovered in the 17th century by booking a round trip shuttle bus or a guided day trip.

In both cases, the bus leaves Rome in the morning around 7h30 and comes back to Rome around 19h, giving you a few hours to visit Pompeii

In Pompeii, you will be able to see:

• The amphitheater that could accommodate 20,000 spectators
• The intact paved streets
• The thermal baths,
• Several villas
• The temples

To book your shuttle bus to Pompeii + skip the line ticket for the archaeological site, you simply need to click on the button below:

And if you prefer to opt for an all included day trip to Pompeii (shuttle bus + lunch + guided visit to Pompeii), it’s there:

This day trip includes a round trip shuttle bus to Pompeii , the entrance fees to the archaeological site as well as a visit to Mount Vesuvius!

After exploring Pompeii, you will be able to climb up to the crater of the volcano (bring good shoes) and enjoy a great view of the area while imagining the tragic eruption.

You need to book your guided tour of Pompeii and Vesuvius here:

Located only 30 kilometers from Rome, Tivoli can also be a great destination for the last day of your trip.

The town is home to 2 of the most beautiful villas of Italy:

• The Villa d’Este
• Emperor Hadrian’s Villa (Villa Adriana): the largest architectural complex of the imperial Rome.

The great thing is that you have the opportunity to visit these 2 palaces and their gardens with an organized day trip that includes round-trip transportation, lunch, and a guide!

This day-trip must be booked in advance here:

Now that you know what to do in Rome in 5 days, I will now give you a few more tips to finalize the organization of your trip.

To explore the best places to visit in 5 days in Rome, you will need to book a hotel.

In order to help you out, I have prepared a selection of my 5 favorite hotels depending on your budget.

You should really book your hotel as soon as possible , the best deals usually don’t last long!

So, where to stay in Rome?

One last advice: Book now if you can , there is a lot of demand in Rome, so the best hotel rooms are sold out very quickly!

• Biancaluna: B&B located near Termini Station, 1.5 km from the Colosseum. Modern, comfortable and very clean room from 70€. Strong points: the warm welcome and the advice to visit Rome, the location. An excellent choice for a cheap stay in Rome!
• Hotel Balilla: Located 1.6 km from the Colosseum and close to a metro station. Well-equipped and quiet double room, impeccably clean, from 99€, breakfast at 5€. Strong points: the friendly staff, the comfort of the beds, the location at 10 min walk from the Colosseum. This is our favorite for its excellent value for money!
• Alice Vatican House : Located 450 meters from St. Peter’s Square. Contemporary room with neat decoration from 95 € per night, breakfast included. Strong points: ideal location, terrace overlooking the Vatican, warm welcome. This is the best choice for your stay in Rome under 120 euros!
• MZ Hotel: Located near the Campo di Fiori and not far from the Pantheon. Modern double room from 150€, breakfast at 12€. Strong points: the location near the historical center, the warm welcome, good bedding, new hotel.
• Roma Luxus Hôtel : High end hotel located at only 400 meters from Piazza Venezia. Beautiful double room starting at 200€ per night, breakfast at 20€. Strong points: The room design, the 5 stars service, the superb breakfast, the spa, the amazing staff. It’s the best hotel for a high end stay in Rome!
• NH Collection Roma Fori Imperiali: This 5* hotel located right next to the Roman Forum offers sublime rooms from 580€, breakfast included. Strong points: the exceptional location, the attentive staff, the view, the comfort. This is our recommendation for a luxury stay in Rome!

if you want to save a bit of money, you can find an accommodation around Rome. I recommend you he bungalows of Camping Village Rome , located at only 15 minutes by car from the Vatican city.

The price starts at only 30€ per night! It’s the best “budget” solution if you don’t mind not being in the city center. It’s also a great choice for families, with the swimming pool!

If you’re going to visit Rome in 5 days with your family , here are a few ideas of activities your kids will for sure enjoy:

• The Colosseum: it’s so impressive that adult and children alike will for sure enjoy the visit. Tell them a bit about the gladiators for instant fascination!
• Villa Borghese gardens are perfect for a family outing. You can have a picnic, the kids can enjoy the playground, go biking, have a little boat trip on the lake or even visit Rome zoo ( click here to purchase the entrance tickets )
• The gladiator school will offer your kids the opportunity to dress up in traditional gladiatorial clothing and get a sword fighting training! A truly original activity for your 5-day family trip to Rome. Click here to book this activity!
• Explora Museum , a museum made especially for kids, with numerous activities they can try. The visit takes about 2 hours.

If you’re looking for an original and fun activity to do with your family, I also recommend you this Italian cooking class organized near the Trevi Fountain.

Under the guidance of a real Italian chef, you will learn how to prepare an authentic Italian pizza . Of course, you will be able to taste your work at the end of the course!

This pizza making course + dinner must be booked by clicking here.

This suggested itinerary allows you to see the best attractions Rome has to offer in 5 days .

And as it’s perfectly optimized, you won’t waste time going back and forth in the city.

However, if you want to change or add activities , you should read my other article about the 25 best places to visit in Rome . It will for sure help you to finalize your itinerary!

You can read it here: The 25 best things to do in Rome.

To help you visualize your daily itineraries during your 5 days in Rome, I have created this map with all the places to visit day by day . You can view the map’s legend by clicking on the top left button, the one with a little arrow.

You can thus see the suggested itineraries for each day.

As always, you should book your plane tickets as early as possible to get the best prices.

To check the rates and schedules for flights to Dubai , you can use our flight comparator, in partnership with Skyscanner:

Now, you know how to visit Rome in 5 days!

You need help to plan your 5 days itinerary in Rome? Don’t hesitate to ask me your questions in the comments section below!

Italy travel Guides

• Buy the Lonely Planet Italy guide on Amazon.com or on Amazon.co.uk
• Buy the Rick Steves Italy guide on Amazon.com or on Amazon.co.uk

Discover all my articles about Italy : All my articles to help you plan your trip to Italy are listed there.

Where to stay in Rome? – The definitive guide of the best areas!

• Colosseum: The 7 best skip the line tickets
• Milan: The Top 15 things to do in the city and around
• Rome: The 25 Best Places to visit
• Turin: The 20 must-see attractions

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Creator of the Voyage Tips blog, travel and photography lover. I give you all my best tips to plan your next trip.

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Discussion 8 comments.

Hello Vincent this article was absolutely amazing, thank you for the in depth guide, my family and I are going in November of 2022 and I was wondering if you could recommend a personal guide that could take us to all these places, we went to Egypt last year and were picked up by a travel guide who provided absolutely everything for us, he picked us up at the airport and he was the last person we saw when we left Egypt, we even ate at his moms house, I or we definitely appreciate the guide or article you wrote but it would be nice if someone could do this for us without breaking the piggy bank, we contacted a joe limo service I believe but wholly Molly I think he thought we were rich? Thank you for the help

Hello Cirilo,

Thank you! I’m glad that my 5-day itinerary in Rome is helping you to plan your stay.

Unfortunately I don’t have a guide to recommend to visit Rome. However, for sure in Italy this kind of service with transport and all included will cost you much more in Rome than in Egypt. And honestly it’s not at all convenient to get around Rome by car. Everything is normally done on foot and a bit by public transport if you don’t feel like walking.

Enjoy your stay in Rome with your family!

Hi Vincent, thank you for this amazing article which is my starting point for our trip to Rome this May. I have one question regarding the Omnia card that you linked and this one – https://www.getyourguide.com/rome-l33/best-of-rome-all-access-pass-t126521/

What would you say are the main differences, and would you also recommend this one?

Thanks in advance! 🙂

Thank you! I’m glad that my 5-day itinerary in Rome is helping you to plan your visits.

With the Omnia Card you can visit more places and there is also a Hop-On Hop-Off bus tour.

Have a nice trip to Rome!

Hi Vincent,

Thanks for putting all this information together. If we purchase a Rome Pass, could you please clarify whether we would need to pay more money when booking tickets to the Coloseum, etc. if we wanted a guided tour (not just an audio tour).

If so then do you advise we don’t buy a Rome Pass and book skip the queue tickets with a guide instead?

Thanks in advance:-)

Thank you for your time! I’m glad that my 5-day Rome itinerary helps you organise your visits.

If you want to take a guided tour of the Colosseum, there’s no point purchasing the Rome Pass. It’s better to book your guided visit directly. I recommend one of these 2 (with an English speaking guide): – Guided tour of the Colosseum + Roman Forum + Palatine Hill – Guided tour of the Colosseum with access to the underground and the arena (VIP tour) .

Enjoy your 5-day stay in Rome!

Thank you. Can you also recommend a good guided tour of the Vatican museums, Sistine Chapel and St Peter’s Bascilica? Much appreciated.

You’re welcome.

There are different types of guided tour for the Vatican (they all include the Vatican Museums, the Sistine Chapel and the Basilica): – The most classic guided tour which lasts 3 hours. It is done in large groups. – The small group tour (click here) also lasts 3 hours. – The small group tour (click here for details) starts early in the morning (from 8am) to avoid the crowds and the heat. The tour lasts 3h30.

Enjoy your trip to Rome!

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What to Book in Advance in Rome

By: Author Sophie Nadeau

Posted on Last updated: 13th August 2023

Categories Italy

Last Updated on 13th August 2023 by Sophie Nadeau

The Eternal City is ever popular and for good reason. There are few places in the world where you can stroll through centuries old streets and find millennia old architecture around nearly every turn. But due to this uniqueness, Rome is undoubtedly one of the most popular places to visit in Europe, if not the world. As such, you’re probably wondering what to book in advance in Rome to make the most of your trip and avoid disappointment.

And so, if I could just give you one travel trip prior to your Eternal City visit, it would be that it’s of the utmost importance to book some attractions in advance.

Even on a recent visit in late May, we found that it was impossible to purchase tickets to some of the most sought after attractions.

The Vatican (which includes the Sistine Chapel) is often sold out at least a week ahead of time and so this is the kind of thing you’ll need to plan for before your plane to reach Rome has even taken off. Here are some of the attractions I highly recommend booking ahead of time:

The Colosseum

Roman forum, the pantheon, st. peter’s tomb (scavi), st peter’s basilica, vatican museums & sistine chapel, castel sant’angelo, borghese gallery and museum, what to book in advance in rome.

Undoubtedly the most famous attractions in Rome is its jaw-dropping Colosseum, which is known as Colosseo in Italian. This former Amphitheatre once hosted up to 50,000 spectators who would watch shows ranging from battleships (yes, they flooded the arena for this) to gladiator fights.

During the Middle Ages, the Colosseum was transformed into a church before then being used as a fortress by two separate families. Unfortunately, the Colosseum was then abandoned, vandalised, and even used as a quarry for approximately 1000 years until it was restored in the 1900s.

There are a few ways to see the Colosseum; you can either go on a self-guided tour of the Colosseum or you can opt to visit with a professional guide. Plan to book your Colosseum visit at least two months ahead of time, though a month in advance should be sufficient to secure a ticket.

We personally opted to visit the Rome attraction with a guide as we wanted to delve deep into the history and see the Roman forum at the same time. Our guided tour also included a guided visit of the Roman Forum.

If you have left it too late to acquire regular Colosseum tickets, then your best option is to look for a guided tour on somewhere like GetYourGuide as they typically have some slots on tours as late as the day before.

The one thing that you should note about the previously mentioned Colosseum tours is that they do not include access to the underground. This is more restricted and fewer visitors can go due to the fragile nature of the Arena.

Book a small group tour like this one that will allow you to see the dungeons, underground tunnels, and chambers of the Colosseum. Another option is to book a Colosseum night tour like this one.

If you are only planning to visit the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill (they are considered one park) and aren’t planning to see the Colosseum then you do not need to book your ticket in advance. The park is huge and it’s pretty easy to buy a ticket on the day you wish to visit.

Although I have visited the Pantheon on previous visits to Rome, this past visit I was unfortunately able to go in because I didn’t know about the new entry requirements. Even to visit the Pantheon, you’ll now need to book a ticket ahead of time!

The Pantheon was originally intended to serve as a Roman temple but was converted into a church in 609 CE. As of July 3rd, visitors will have to pay to visit the Pantheon. Under 18s, residents of Rome, and those who are only visiting the church to worship will still go in for free.

You can only book around two to three weeks ahead so be sure to book these tickets around two weeks before your visit. You an find more details on the official website of the Pantheon.

If you don’t manage to secure a regular slot, then you can opt to go on a guided tour like this one which is a little more expensive, but typically guided tours will still be available on booking platforms up to the day before the date you wish to visit.

Due to limited availability, one of the hardest to visit attractions in Rome lies directly under Vatican City in an area known as Vatican Necropolis and is alleged to be St Peter’s Tomb. Only 12 people are allowed in per tour, with a maximum of 250 visitors to the excavations allowed per day.

As such, you can see how hard it is to acquire tickets for this experience. Your best bet in securing a ticket is to try and book your visit at least two to three months before your planned trip to Rome.

There are two ways to book a ticket to this special place. The first is to contact the Excavations office directly (this is why you need to do it a few months ahead of your planned visit).

You can find their details on the official website . You’ll need to fill in a form stating the number of visitors (no children under 15 are allowed) including their names and the language you would prefer for the tour to be in. Tickets cost €13 and there are no reductions.

The other option is to book a guided tour through an agency. This is personally what I would do as you have more chance of getting a ticket even if it’s quite a bit more expensive. Find out more details to book through an agency here.

If you’re planning a visit to the Vatican, then one of the most important things to note is that you should dress appropriately , otherwise you will probably be refused entry (even if you have a ticket to visit).

You should note that St Peter’s Basilica and the Vatican Museums (which include Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel) are entirely different attractions and have separate entrances which are around a five minute walk from one another.

The first thing you should note is that entrance to St Peter’s Basilica itself is free, but you should expect to queue for about two hours for the privilege of visiting (so be sure to wear comfortable walking shoes).

To be honest, the best way to beat the crowds is to get to the Basilica early in the morning (the ecclesiastical building opens at 7 AM throughout the year). If you want to go up to St Peter’s Basilica dome, then you can book a dome tour like this one but note that there is no skip-the-line option.

The Vatican Museums should be booked at least a few weeks ahead of time (I would say that a month ahead of your scheduled visit is a good time to aim for).

There are a few different ways to visit the Museums but, whatever you do, you should be prepared for just how many people are visiting at the same time as you!

The first is simply to book an entrance ticket like this one which includes a self-guided tour. As part of the perks of booking ahead of time, you’ll get to go in a fast-track queue and save some of your precious vacation time.

The other option is to book a guided tour like this one . I opted for a guided tour during my Vatican Museum visit as I love delving deeper into the history of the place with the help of a local guide.

To be honest, the museums are pretty large and overwhelming, so it can be nice to have someone who can point out the crème de la crème of masterpieces so that you don’t miss any of the most famous pieces. Find more details here.

The breathtaking Castel Sant’Angelo (also known as the Mausoleum of Hadrian) was constructed along the banks of the River Tiber between 134 and 139 CE.

Although originally commissioned by Emperor Hadrian to serve as his Mausoleum, over the centuries the landmark has been used by the Popes as a fortress. Today, the castle has been transformed into a museum and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding area.

Typically, there are more tickets available for this attraction, though I do recommend booking at least a few days in advance as sometimes tickets do run out. Book your skip the line ticket here in advance.

Lying in the heart of the Villa Borghese park (the most beautiful centrally located green space that Rome has to offer), the Borghese Gallery and Museum showcases an 18th-century home filled with treasures such as masterpieces by Rubens, Raphael, Titian, and Bernini.

If you want to see the Borghese museum for yourself, then it’s worth noting that you should plan to book your tickets at least a few weeks ahead of time as tickets often sell out before the day of visit.

Unfortunately, your time inside the museum will be limited to just two hours, so do be wary of the time and allowing yourself to soak it all up before you’re ushered out.

Book your Borghese Gallery and Museum ticket here in advance. Another option if you don’t want to miss all of the highlights is to book a guided tour of the Borghese Gallery like this one.

Enjoyed reading about what to book in advance in Rome? Pin this article now, read it again later:

Sophie Nadeau loves dogs, books, travel, pizza, and history. A Francophile at heart, she runs solosophie.com when she’s not chasing after the next sunset shot or consuming something sweet. She splits her time between Paris and London and travels as much as she can! Subscribe to Sophie’s YouTube Channel.

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Rome for beginners: complete Rome guide for first time visitors

Expert first timers’ guide to the Eternal City: what to do, what not to do and the all the Rome tips and tricks you need for a safe first time in Rome. Updated November 2021 .

Rome makes a strong impression on the first time visitor.

Its beauty, personality and chaos envelop you the moment you step out onto its busy streets and, for many, it is love at first sight.

For others, however, Rome’s overwhelming personality feels more like a slap in the face and no matter what tricks the city ends up pulling, many leave feeling Rome is just not for them.

This happens for many reasons. Rome can indeed be an infuriating overly chaotic place, however I believe it has much to do with expectations and planning.

In this first timers guide to Rome, I share my best advice for a first visit to Rome.

I believe these tips will help you know what to expect, plan your time at best and make you skip some of the traps that make some visitors leave disappointed.

Ready for my Rome’s tips and tricks? Let’s go!

First things first! Double check on official sources the travel rules and restrictions that may affect your trip. Find all info on our guide >>> Can I travel to Rome right now ?

Please note: this post contains affiliate links and, should you make a purchase through them, we might make a small commission.

Table of Contents

Rome tips and tricks for first time visitors

Visiting Rome for the first time? Bookmark or pin this guide for easy access!

Pick the right season

Rome can be visited all year round but there is no doubt that some seasons are better than others.

The best time of all to visit Rome for the first time are the spring (with the exception of the Easter weeks) and fall, especially May and October .

At these times, the weather is pleasant, dry and the city sparkles under bright skies, dressed up in blossoms (March to May) or autumnal foliage.

The worst time of all to visit Rome is the summer. July and August are hot and sticky, mosquitoes reign supreme and locals are scarce: at this time, Romans escape to their air-conditioned offices or the coast and the city is full of tourists.

This is a truly unpleasant time to visit the city and is responsible for so many bad reviews of the city from the unlucky ones who get caught in the city’s relentless sun.

Winter in Rome is hit and miss. The weather is usually dry but chilly and the biggest issue you will find are the short days: many attractions close early in winter so make sure you check beforehand if you are planning to cram a lot into each day.

Decide how many days to stay

Deciding how many days to spend in Rome depends on your interests and expectations.

If you are interested in seeing Rome’s main sights only, you will be able to cover a lot of grounds even just with two days in the city.

If you want to see museums and go for a bit of shopping in town, you need a minimum of four days.

To help you narrow down how many days you may need to see Rome, I wrote detailed itineraries for 1 to 5 days in Rome. You can find here >>> my guide to deciding how many days are enough to see Rome .

Decide where to stay:

Find accommodation in the city center

The most beautiful part of Rome is its historical center and there is no better place to stay in Rome to enjoy it that with a hotel or apartment right in the center of the action.

Staying here you may have to put up with slightly higher prices but you will be rewarded by easy access to all the major attractions in Rome , a plethora of restaurants and the chance of wandering around Romes’ dusty cobbled streets after the crowds of day trippers have left.

Best area to stay in Rome for first time visitors

You can find a full overview of Rome’s neighborhoods here but for your first visit, I recommend you choose.

Monti district

Old and hip, the Monti neighborhood is the best area to stay in Rome if you want to be walking distance form the main sites, have easy access to the train station and love alternative bars and vintage shopping.

Check our the Fifteen keys hotel for boutique accommodation in this area

At the very heart of Rome, this location is so central you will be able to walk everywhere. This is the part of Rome famous for cobbled streets and small restaurants and it is ideal for first time visitors both for charm and ease of access.

Check out Le Clarisse al Pantheon for a charming and reasonably priced option in the area or find our full guide to the best hotels near the Pantheon .

Piazza Navona

Rome’s most famous square is a wonderful backdrop for accommodation in Rome. This is a wonderful area to choose as your base for your first visit to Rome as it allows easy access to both the historical center and the Vatican as well as a vantage point to visit Trastevere.

Check out 5 star Raphael Hotel for something really special in this area or find our list of recommended hotels near Piazza Navona

The dress code is enforced in Rome basilicas too (San Giovanni, Santa Maria Maggiore) but is less strict in other churches however, always carry a large shawl with you should be in short sleeves and avoid shorts.

Please be advised: while a shawl around your shoulder will do, one around your waist to cover your legs won’t be deemed sufficient.

You can find my complete guide to dressing for the Vatican and Rome churches here.

Avoid public transport

Few experiences are more irritating in Rome than having to deal with the city’s public transport system.

While the network of buses, trams and metro is extensive (especially the first two), buses follow a schedule that is erratic at best and are often so crowded you will find hard to believe locals can put up with it at all.

Granted, this is not the experience on all buses and at all times but if you rely on bus journeys every day, this will impact on the quality of your stay significantly.

If you can, especially on your first visit, walk and only use the bus when absolutely necessary.

You can find our full guide to public transport in Rome here

Bring comfortable walking shoes

In Rome, you will find yourself walking a lot, part because of the lack of good transport and part for the pleasure of it.

This means that you absolutely must be equipped with a good pair of walking shoes, a pair that will protect your feet from the hard cobbles of the city and will give you enough support to clock in up to 25000 steps a day (this is what many people average sightseeing in Rome)

In case you have heard that in Rome you should not wear sneakers if you want to feel like a local, let me tell you: this is complete nonsense!

I see this piece of advice over and over again on internet and is simply nonsensical. Sneakers are the best type of shoes to wear in Rome and the only ones to avoid if you want to feel fashionable are actual runners (you know the ones: high soles, neon colors).

If you wear fashion sneakers like Adidas foam, Vans or New Balance style, you will fit in perfectly and save your feet from very sore days.

Of all the Rome tips and tricks I share on this page, this is the one I hope you will remember the most: put practicality above fashion! You can find my recommended walking shoes for Rome here.

Dress for churches

On the topic of look and gear, you may have heard that Rome enforces a dress code for churches in general and for the Vatican in particular.

This is correct and not abiding by this rule may cost you in terms of access to some of Rome’s most beautiful churches.

The Vatican is the place with stricter rules: here, you must avoid sleeveless tops, shorts (this is true for men and women) and skirts above the knee.

While flip flops are not officially banned, there are also frowned upon – in general, they are not considered proper footwear for the city, in Italy.

But do visit them

The idea of a dress code may put you off visiting churches, especially in the warmest months, but some really should not be missed.

San Luigi dei Francesi has a wonderful Caravaggio, Santa Prassede and Santa Maria in Trastevere have incredible mosaics and San Pietro in Vincoli has a Moses by Michelangelo, just to name a few – all worth a fashion compromise!

Have a crossbody bag

Rome is crowded and pick-pocketing misadventures are not unheard of. Opt for a cross-body bag for maximum security and never ever leave it unattended or hanging off the back of your chair at a restaurant.

Rome is not the jungle but unattended stuff gets snatched fast so a little extra caution goes a long way.

Without getting paranoid about pickpockets, this is probably the most important tip for first time visitors in terms of safety.

Always have ID on you

In Italy it is compulsory to have ID on you at all times so make sure you have some form of identification on you.

If you don’t want to carry your passport with you, make sure you have a driving license or some other form of photo ID handy in the (unlikely) event of an officer asking.

While you should avoid carrying large sums of cash, some cash on you is important to have, in Rome.

Credit and debit cards are usually accepted in restaurants and hotels but they are no good for small purchases: you cannot buy gelato with them nor pay for taxis so having some cash is paramount.

Opt for small notes as much as possible: paying a 5 euro purchase with a 50 Euro not will not make you any friends and shops may simply deny to serve you if they don’t have (or don’t want to use up) change

Don’t rely on wi-fi

Wi-fi is dreadful in Rome. When you open the ‘available networks’ screen you may be surprised to see many are free stay assured: the vast majority of them do not work!

Get a local sim card or make sure you have a good data plan on your won if you cont on using maps or any other wi-fi dependent app.

Learn a few words of Italian

You do not need to speak Italian to enjoy Rome but a few words go a long way.

‘Per favore’ (please) and ‘grazie’ (thank you) will be sufficient in most touristy places to be treated a little better – Romans are notoriously grumpy but making an effort with the language may even win you a smile.

You can find here >>> a great introduction to basic Italian phrases and expressions for travelers

Start with an itinerary

Rome has loads of attractions and having an itinerary to follow is invaluable to make sure you can hit all the sites you want to see in the time you have.

Depending on the time you have in Rome and your party, you can use these itiernaries as a base and costumise them to your own needs.

Rome in one day : a whistle stop DIY walking tour of Rome

Rome in 2 days : a slow-ish pace itinerary around Rome hitting some of the main museums and all the main sites

Rome in 3 days : a good itinerary to allow you to see Rome’s most important attractions, plus time to shop and relaz

Rome in 4 days : our recommended itinerary with main Rome attractions and hidden gems over 4 days

Rome in 5 days : a complete itinerary to cover Rome main sites and some hidden gems, for a longer stay in Rome

Rome in 5 days (for families) : a family friendly sample itinerary over 5 days to discover the city as a family appropriate pace and hitting main sites and child- centered attractions.

If you prefer to make your own instead, you can start from our planning guide here , explaining what attractions are close to one an other and can be visited on the same day

Then ditch it and get lost!

A little bit like rules, I believe the best approach to itineraries is: know it then break it.

Once you have your main outline of the day, I believe allowing yourself to get lost in Rome is one of the most rewarding things you can do in the city.

The best areas for a planned ‘getting lost’ experience are the streets around the Pantheon, the area of Piazza Navona and Trastevere.

Areas I recommend you do not get lost into are the streets around Termini station: while these are not dangerous as such, they are not the most pleasant area for a stroll and, in the evening, get on the uncomfortable side.

See the main sites

Many will tell you the best of Rome is found off the beaten track but seriously: only go off the beaten track after you have seen the main sites.

They are on the beaten track for a reason and it would be crazy not to see them just to be different from anyone else!

At the very minimum, I recommend you see the Colosseum , the Pantheon , the Campidoglio Hill and Piazza Navona , even just from the outside if you really cannot stand the crowds. See below my Rome first time must-see sites .

I feel that not seeing these sites would take away massively from your experience and will make you miss you an important part of Rome’s personality.

But book skip the line tickets

The best way to visit Romes’ main attraction (actually, the only way for a pleasant experience) is to book skip the line tickets and to do it well in advance.

This is crucial especially for two attractions that are otherwise almost inaccessible: the Colosseum and the Vatican Museums.

You can find my best tips on how to skip the line at the Colosseum here while for the Vatican, I recommend you book tickets online from the museums itself here or book a guide here .

Venture off the beaten path

After you have seen the main sites, do take the advice of those who tell you to get off the beaten path and venture to some of Romes’ residential neighborhoods to seek out Rome hidden gems.

Rome has a very different personality outside of the center and each area has a distinctive flavor.

Go to Ostiense or Tor Marancia if you love street art, head to the Coppede’ district for an art deco fix or venture out to Ostia Antica for a magical walk among Rome’s ancient port.

Seek birds eye views

Rome is built on 7 hills and this means that it has several viewpoints from where you can admire the city.

The best time for photos and romance is the early evening, when the sun sets setting the okra and red colors of Rome’s buildings catch on fire.

Some of the most scenic locations are the terrace of il Pincio ( Villa Borghese , above Piazza del Popolo), Campidoglio (amazing view over the forum) and Giardino degli Aranci (on the Aventino hill , view over the river and the city).

Get out early / stay out late

Rome gives its very best early in the morning and late in the evening, when the crowds disappear and the silence falls on the city.

You don’t have to be out stupidly early or late to enjoy (I am not advocating a 6 am wake up call on your vacation!) but if you can be in the city center before 9 am, you will see the city at its most beautiful.

You can find here some of my favorite things to do in Rome at night .

Make the most of your hotel breakfast

Rome has amazing food but one meal it doesn’t do particularly well is breakfast .

Sure, you can get your fix of coffee and cornetto (Italian croissant) pretty much anywhere in the city but this is a treat more than a proper meal: if you are hoping for yogurt, cereals or a cooked breakfast, don’t venture out but rather, have it at your hotel or your will easily find yourself going hungry.

Have coffee at the bar

While not great if you are after a full breakfast, Rome bars are excellent for a coffee fix and the way to go about it is to do what locals do: order it at the bar.

Cafes often have small tables to sit down but there is a good reason locals avoid them: a sit down coffee costs easily 3 times as much as one sipped at the bar (find more tips for visiting Rome on a budget here )!

When ordering, make sure you stop at the till first to pay and get your receipt, then head to the bar and had the receipt while placing your order (many add a 20c coin to make the service faster but it is not compulsory. I never do it).

Ask for ‘Un caffe’ per favore’ if you want espresso or ‘un cappuccino per favore’ for a traditional cappuccino.

Don’t believe in those who tell you you should not order it after 11, this is another nonsensical myth. The only no-no for cappuccino is ordering it as a drink during a meal, the rest is totally up to you!

If you love coffee, don’t miss my list of the best coffee experience in Rome.

Taste Roman food

In Rome, you find all the usual staples of Italian food but if you want a very special food experience you must try the foods that are specific to the Rome tradition.

Some of the most noticeable are:

Pasta to try in Rome

Make sure you taste real carbonara (we Romans are evangelical about it and you will quickly understand why once you taste it), pasta alla gricia and the famous cacio and pepe for a burst of taste

Rome meat dishes

Try earthy abbacchio scottadito (lamb), light straccetti (veal, served with rocket salad and fresh cherry tomatoes), saltimbocca (veal, prosciutto and sage).

If you feel adventurous, also try coda alla vaccinara (ox tail) and trippa!

Vegetarian dishes in Rome

Rome cuisine is not known for its vegetarian options but two side dishes are so famous and unique they make up for all the rest: carciofi all giudia ( jewish style fried artichokes ), carciofi alla Romana ( Roman style artichokes ), and puntarelle alla romana (chicory heads, spring only)

Rome desserts

Rome’s mos famous sweet treat is il maritozzo, a special type of bread/brioche filled with cream

Fried Rome treats

As a starter before your pizza or as a bite during the day, don’t leave without trying Rome’s suppli’ (fried rice balls with a melting core of mozzaella), baccala (fried cod, the roman version of fish and chips, without chips) and fiori di zucca ( fried battered zucchini flowers ).

One of the two capitals of pizza in Italy (the other being Naples) Roma has amazing, thin pizza.

Order the traditional full ones for dinner and, for lunch, have a piece of what Romans call ‘pizza al taglio’ instead.

It comes in many styles and it’s one of the most budget friendly meals you can find in the city. Click to find our guide to the best pizza in Rome

Order vino della casa

The best thing to wash down a true Roman meal is with a glass of wine. In traditional establishments, order ‘vino della casa’ (house wine) for a budget friendly yet tasty option.

Have a drink in an enoteca

If you love fancier wine or cozy interiors with good wines and earthy meals, don’t miss having dinner in one of Rome’s wine bars (enoteche).

These are small, cozy places that pack a punch in terms of charm and taste: my favorite is probably Cul de sac, near Piazza Navona but the city teems with them.

These are a very popular option among locals and among the best places to have a somewhat authentic Rome experience.

Eat only gelato artigianale

The only thing more commong in Rome than pizza places are gelato places but don’t just venture into any: make sure the gelato you order is the real thing, the one we call ‘gelato artigianale’.

Gelato artigianale is tasty, not too fatty and less sugary than industrial style ice cream and a real delight. if you don’t want to run any risks in terms of taste, you can do to one of my favorite gelato places in this list .

Know where to shop

Rome is a wonderful destination for shopping but you need to know where to go not to find yourself out of pocket.

If budget is not an issue, the place for you is Via Condotti: elegant and stunning, this is the road with all the designer boutiques and ateliers. If you are looking for your Gucci or Prada fix, this is the place to be.

More affordable options can be found on nearby Via del Corso or, even better, in Via Cola die Rienzo, in Prati, where you will find a mix of high street brands and independent shops

For vintage, head to Monti and in particular to its market (help every weekend) which is fun and often has great finds.

Take a break in the park

Rome has some amazing parks .

Many are private estates of aristocratic Rome families now turned public parks and this means they have beautiful landscaping and sometimes gorgeous architecture.

The most famous of all is probably Villa Borghese, right in the center, but others are worth seeking out too. Villa Doria Pamphili in particular is a treat as it offers stunning views over St Peter’s dome.

Top things to do in Rome on your first visit: Rome first time must do

As I mentioned above, going to Rome for the first time and not seeing the main sites would be madness, so here are my top 10 things to see in Rome in your first visit

Visit the Colosseum

A wonderful first stop in any Rome itinerary, the Colosseum is impressive, beautiful and unique. If you can, take a visit inside and opt for a tour that includes the arena, the underground area and the top tier.

There are several you can choose from but you don’t need to break the bank for a good one. You can find my selection of best Colosseum tours and tips to skip the line here .

Stroll around the Roman Forum and Palatine hill

Beside the Colosseum and usually included in the Colosseum ticket, the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill are the areas where ancient Rome developed, from its very foundation to the empire years.

This area is poorly served in terms of information panels but it wonderful and scenic. Even just for the view and visual impact head to the top of the Palatine and the Emperors’ palace: one of the most beautiful spots in the whole of Rome, ancient or modern!

Climb up Campidoglio

Ancient Rome meets the Italian Renaissance in this incredible corner of Rome: Piazza del Campidoglio.

Take the steps up to see Michelangelo’ masterpiece (the square itself) and then walk to the back of the main palazzo for unrivaled views over the forum.

Find our guide to the Capitoline hill here .

Rome first time must do for couples: the Spanish steps

They don’t need any introduction and are one of the easiest and more rewarding free things to see in Rome.

Catch the Spanish Steps in the evening if you can for beautiful views over the sparkling city. If you are looking for romance, it doesn’t get much better than this….

Throw a coin in the Trevi fountain

Can I be honest? I don’t think I am the only Roman who does not love Fontana di Trevi but I do understand is a must see and I recommend to go see if on your first visit to Rome.

Why I don’t love it? Because the area is so crowded you can hardly see the fountain itself and there is zero atmosphere not just on the square but on the surrounding streets.

With one exception: the evening. Head here after the crowds have left and you will quickly see why despite not loving it, I simply had to add it to this list. Find our guide to visiting the Trevi Fountain here.

Look at the sky from inside Pantheon

Two things stand out about the Pantheon : its stunning facade, gracing one of Rome’s most beautiful squares and the hole in its roof.

The Pantheon is one of the most beautiful attractions in the whole of Rome and its square a must see. You will find yourself passing by it often, pretty much no matter what itinerary you follow and, if you don’t find excessive lines, do go it and join the crowds who wonder: what happens when it rains)

Visit Piazza Navona and Campo de’ fiori

At the two sides of Corso Vittorio lie two of Rome’s most beautiful squares: grand Piazza Navona and dusty Campo de’ fiori. Visit both one after the other for a taste of how varied Rome can be even in small areas

Cross the border into St Peter’s Square

Technically a different country but in practice a square in Rome, Piazza San Pietro is stunning and should not be missed.

The square is part of the Vatican state but there is no border crossing or check as such and the only access difficulties you may find are the excessive crowds. You can read more about the Vatican here .

The square is free to visit and so is the main floor of the basilica both very worth a visit during your first time in Rome.

You can find here my tips for visiting St Peter Basilica , the Vatican Gardens and Vatican City and Museums or my complete guide to planning a visit to Vatican City here .

First time in Rome must do for foodies: take a stroll in Trastevere

I can think of several areas to recommend for an evening stroll but during your first time visiting in Rome I reckon the best one to start with is Trastevere .

Located on the opposite side of the river from the main historical sites, Trastevere is atmospheric and has a dynamic nightlife: head here fro a late afternoon stroll and pizza: it is known for having some of the best pizzerie in the whole of Rome.

See also >>> my guide to Rome for foodies, full of food finds!

First time in Rome must do for families:Villa Borghese

As a proud Rome mama of 2 I could not close this list without a mention of the best things do to in Rome with kids.

Rome is stunning for families and there is so much to see and do here I have a full list of over 50 things to do in Rome with kids – I recommend you have a look to pick those that attract your kids the most!

As well as many of the must see sites also on this list, make sure you seek out Villa Borghese .

This is one of the most beautiful parks in Rome and has lovely playgrounds as well as the zoo and a small pond with rowing boats and turtles. Not to be missed on your first family visit to Rome!

I hope you enjoyed this first timer’s guide to Rome and helped answer the question: what Rome tips and trick should I know to visit the Eternal City?

My name is Marta, I am a travel-loving mama born and bred in that messy, wonderful, infuriating, awe-inspiring unbelievably beautiful city that is Rome. A classics graduate and professional travel blogger, on this site I share my insider tips to help you plan your dream trip to Rome, Italy.

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Visiting Rome: Sights to Book in Advance

Rome is a destination that rewards (and to some extent requires) advance trip planning – with several things to book in Rome in advance.

Some  popular attractions limit the number of visitors per day, so it’s important to purchase tickets in advance as they can sell out. Luckily there are plenty of Rome sightseeing tickets online!

Here’s a list of things to book in Rome in advance

Underground tour of the colosseum.

This tour visits the underground areas of the Colosseum where the gladiators waited to enter the arena, and where the animals and props were kept. Start checking for tickets  here  as soon as you know your dates in Rome–two months in advance is not too early. Tickets seem to become available in an unpredictable way–keep checking the site for updates.

Look for availability and book below:

The Vatican Necropolis, also known as the Scavi tour at St Peter’s

This tour, led by the Vatican Excavations Office, goes below St. Peter’s Basilica to visit the tomb of Saint Peter. Reserve your place by email as soon as you know your dates (at least a month in advance). The reservation process requires you to list the dates you are available and the office will reply (generally within a few hours) with your assigned date and time, if space is available. Providing a number of date and tour language options, and having a small group size will increase your chance of getting a ticket.

Alternatively, you can join combine your  Vatican tour with the Sistine Chapel .

St. Peter’s Square, Vatican, Rome, Italy.

Papal audience

The papal audience is 90 minutes of prayers, readings and blessings with the Pope on Wednesday mornings in St. Peter’s Square (in good weather) or the Pope Paul VI Audience Hall near St Peter’s (sometimes in December, January, and August). Tickets are  not  required for the August audiences. For free tickets at other times of the year,  contact  St Patrick’s American Community in Rome 2 to 3 weeks in advance–this page also lists the dates on which there are no audiences. If you get tickets, arrive early (around 7am, the gates open between 7:30am and 8:30am) as seating is on a first-come basis.

If you miss out on tickets: There is standing room at the back of St. Peter’s Square for those without tickets–just keep in mind that your view may be poor or obstructed. There is another chance to see Pope Francis at the Sunday Angelus at noon in St. Peter’s Square. The Angelus is a 15-20 minute service that the Pope delivers from his apartment window. No tickets are required but, again, seating is on a first-come basis so arrive early.

Borghese Gallery

One of my favourite galleries and often overlooked by first-time visitors to Rome, the Borghese houses an outstanding collection of paintings, sculpture and antiquities from the 15th to 18th centuries including “Daphne and Apollo” by Bernini and “Sacred and Profane Love” by Titian. Tickets are sold for a particular date and time and each visit is limited to 2 hours, after which you will be ushered out of the gallery. Arrive early as all bags must be checked and this process takes a while–you don’t want to cut into your visit time. Book online ( here ) a couple weeks in advance–tickets can sometimes be available up to the last minute but there are also weeks when they sell out days in advance.

Palazzo Farnese

Now housing the French Embassy, the Palazzo Farnese contains the famous Farnese gallery with its fresco cycle depicting the loves of the gods by artist Annibale Carracci. Tickets should be booked online at least a week in advance.

The Colosseum and the Vatican Museums are two attractions that don’t require you to buy tickets in advance, but you may be able to reduce your time in line if you do.

Tip : Remember to also book your accommodation in Rome in advance as hotels can fill up quickly, particularly during high season! Read our  Rome Accommodation Guide  if you’re looking for somewhere to stay while in Rome! We’ve also covered the top things to do in our  Rome Activity Guide .

For more tours in Rome, check out the offering on Get Your Guide:

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42 Best things to do in Rome that are worth booking in advance

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Looking for the best things to do in Rome ? Exploring Rome is like going on a treasure hunt, and this guide is your treasure map. If you're wondering what to do in Rome , look no further! We'll show you all the coolest spots you'll want to check out before you even pack your bags.

From standing inside the giant Colosseum to wandering around the peaceful Borghese Gardens, Rome is full of surprises waiting for you. Whether you love old stories, beautiful art, or just having fun outdoors, there's something here for everyone.

Let's dive into the adventure and discover the 42 finest things to do in the Eternal City and what makes Rome a place you'll never forget. Ready to start the journey?

• 1 What are the Best Things to Do in Rome? (And Should You Do them All?)
• 2 Best Things to Do in Rome for History Lovers
• 3 Best Things to Do In Rome Outdoor
• 4 Best Things to Do In Rome for Art And Museum Lovers
• 5 Religious Sites
• 6 Best Things to Do In Rome for Foodies
• 7 Few Things to Know Before You Go to Rome
• 8 Rome Passes to Fully Enjoy the Top Attractions
• 9 Final Words about the Best Things to Do in Rome

What are the Best Things to Do in Rome? (And Should You Do them All?)

Wondering what are the best things to do in Rome?

The truth is, every corner turned and every street walked in Rome has something to offer.

Marvel at the Colosseum, soak in the history at the Pantheon, lounge in a picturesque piazza or enjoy the view from a rooftop bar…

The activities to do in Rome are endless. And here’s a tip : don’t fall into the trap of thinking, “you haven't visited Rome if you haven't seen X or Y.”

Rome is too rich and varied for a one-size-fits-all approach.

So, according to our personal experience and conversations with hundreds of people, here is a list of warm recommendations for what to do in Rome.

Best Things to Do in Rome for History Lovers

Rome is a great place for history enthusiasts. Here are the best things to do in Rome if you love old ruins, museums and cultural visits.

1. Colosseum

The Colosseum is the main symbol of Rome Italy and almost 2,000 years old.

The original structure was 188 meters (616 ft) long, 156 meters (511 ft)wide, and 57 meters (187 ft) high, making it the greatest Roman amphitheater of its time. It accommodated more than 50,000 spectators at a time, watching free spectacles such as gladiator fights, exotic animal exhibitions, and even the execution of prisoners.

Today, with around 4.2 million people visiting every year, there’s no doubt the Colosseum is a must-see in Rome. It is one of the best things to do in Rome with family. Here, you can learn what is the best way to buy Colosseum tickets.

Getting there: The Colosseo Metro station (Line B) is only minutes away from the Colosseum. Various buses also stop in the area, including most hop-on/hop-off tourist buses.

If you wait until you arrive, you could end up standing in line for up to 4 hours to enter the tallest amphitheater ever built.

More than five million people visit this iconic landmark each year, making it the most popular of the Rome tourist attractions outside the Vatican.

How to skip the line at the Colosseum – There are various ticket (check price here) and tour options which will allow you to skip the ticket line at the Colosseum. They include the three-in-one Colosseum, Roman Forum and Palatine Hill tickets or even the Roma Pass which includes free entry to one or two museums or archaeological sites.

You could also book a tour to get access to the Colosseum underground and third ring in the company of a professional guide.

2. Pantheon

Who doesn’t want to visit one of the best-preserved architectural wonders of the ancient world? Its easy accessibility by foot or public transport in the heart of the city makes it one of the most-visited Rome attractions. Here are some tips on how to buy tickets for the Pantheon , so you can avoid the most common tourist traps.

People come from all directions to marvel at the largest unreinforced concrete dome in the world which has stood the test of time for more than 2,000 years. More people are visiting this amazing place each year, even though entering the Pantheon is no longer free.

For this reason, it’s advisable to buy an audio guide in advance . Even better , book a tour to learn more about the Pantheon’s history and remarkable architecture get and get priority entrance as a bonus.

3. Roman Forum

If you want to know what life was like during the time of the ancient Roman Empire, strolling through the Forum and Palatine Hill is one of the best things to do in Rome.

The area was buried under the earth after the fall of the Empire. Fortunately, excavations during the 20th century now make it possible to see where the seat of government, the courts of law, temples, and monuments were.

The concentrated area of ruins that is the Roman Forum tells the tale of everyday life in ancient Rome city center. More than 4 million visitors per year walk among the historically significant ruins in the small valley between the Palatine and Capitoline Hills.

By investing in a skip-the-line ticket before your visit, you’ll have more time to stroll down the famous Via Sacra. This used to be the main thoroughfare connecting the Colosseum with the Piazza del Campidoglio.

4. Palatine Hill

The Palatine Hill which extends behind the Forum was a popular area for emperors to build their palaces. It’s also where, according to legend, Rome was founded by Romulus.

The Palatine Hill is where Romulus started Rome’s first settlement in the 8th century BC. Structures that have been revealed by excavations include huts from the Iron Age, religious sites, and imperial palaces.

Palatine Hill is the least busy of the three Rome attractions for which a combined ticket is sold. If for some reason you are unable to book in advance, our best advice is to buy the ticket here before visiting the Roman Forum and Colosseum. It automatically gives you fast-track entrance to all three sites.

Getting there : The blue Metro line (B) goes past the Roman Forum, with the closest stop being the Colosseo station. Or you could take the same bus which you would take for the Colosseum.

5. Catacombs Of Rome

Visiting the underground Catacombs of Rome is undoubtedly one of the best things to do in Rome, Italy, especially if you’re interested in the city's history and early Christian life. You can try this 45 min Priscilla Catacomb guided tour for €15 – tickets available here.

These subterranean burial sites will allow you to immerse yourself into Rome's past. As a recommended thing to do in Rome, touring the catacombs is a great way to connect with the poignant history of a Rome that thrived centuries ago.

And believe us, you’ll absolutely love walking through the narrow passageways of the Catacombs of Callixtus , the largest of its kind, and exploring the lesser-known Catacombs of Priscilla…

6. Forum of Augustus and Trajan Forum

It’s clearly one of the cool things to do in Rome if you want to see more of the grandeur of Roman architecture.

Once the heart of Roman public and political life, these forums have become a symbol of the empire's power. But why is it part of the best tourist activities in Rome, Italy?

Well, they offer an amazing insight into the civic and social life of ancient Rome Italy. We would highly recommend joining a guided tour to fully appreciate the historical context and architectural complexities of the site.

7. Baths of Caracalla

The Baths of Caracalla is a Rome must-do if you love history.

Built between AD 212 and 217, these immense public baths were a city center of leisure and socialization. Back then they featured libraries, gardens, and even spaces for athletic activities!

Today, they remind us of Rome's imperial past and are among the most impressive Rome things to do and see. It’s a great way to have a glimpse into the daily life of ancient Romans.

Here again, we would advise you to take a guided tour to better understand the history and importance of the Baths of Caracalla. Check out this one – Caracalla Baths & Circus Maximus Tour – get tickets here.

8. Castel Sant’Angelo

The cylindrical fortress on the banks of the Tiber River in Parco Adriano is also known as the Mausoleum of Hadrian. In fact, it’s very close to the Vatican City. With close to one million visitors a year, Castel Sant’Angelo is the fifth most visited attraction in Italy and deserving of a place on the list of best things to do in Rome.

Just taking a look inside the luxuriously decorated papal apartments in Castel Sant’Angelo is worth the entrance ticket. By reserving a Castel Sant’Angelo skip-the-line ticket online , you get fast track entrance and the opportunity to visit the castle rooms and art exhibitions in the main rooms.

9. Arch of Constantine

The Arch of Constantine is undeniably one of the best things to see in Rome, Italy.

Erected to commemorate Constantine I's victory at the Battle of Milvian Bridge in 312 AD, it showcases reliefs and statues pillaged from earlier monuments. Located between the Colosseum and Palatine Hill, its strategic location makes it easily accessible.

The Arch of Constantine embodies the transition from the pagan Roman Empire to Christian rule. It's a must-see to ponder the events that have shaped the world we know today.

10. Circus Maximus

Wondering what Roman entertainment looked like back then? Then Circus Maximus should clearly be on your checklist of stuff to do in Rome!

Once the premier chariot racing stadium, this site could hold 250,000 spectators! Today, its sprawling grounds will allow you to escape from the bustling city.

Go tread the same ground where Romans once gathered in mass to be entertained. If you love history and wonder what to see in Rome Italy, then Circus Maximus is your perfect choice.

11. Largo Di Torre Argentina

Largo di Torre Argentina ranks among the fun things to do in Rome city center, a glimpse into ancient Roman life amidst the city.

This square is home to four Roman temples and the remains of Pompey's Theatre . It’s where Julius Caesar was famously assassinated.

But why does Largo di Torre Argentina stand out among Rome top attractions?

Well, it actually plays an important role as a sanctuary for Rome’s stray cats. During your visit, you’ll have the opportunity to watch cats sunbathe on ancient pillars and steps!

12. Domus Aurea

Also known under the name Nero's Golden House, the Domus Aurea embodies the extravagance of Roman emperors.

A highlight among the attractions in Rome city center. This huge palatial complex, once covered in gold leaf, gems, and shells, was one of the most luxurious sites in ancient Rome.

So step back in time and explore the opulence Nero envisioned for his reign.

The good news is that it’s one of Rome's tourist attractions that have recently been restored. An unmissable experience for history buffs!

13. Theatre of Marcellus

It’s undoubtedly one of the best things to do in Rome in February when the crowds are thinner and the weather is cooler.

This ancient open-air theater once hosted performances of drama and song for the Roman populace.

There you’ll have access to a more intimate glimpse into Roman life and leisure , away from the more frequented tourist spots.

This visit will allow you to connect you with the past, a peaceful moment in the heart of Rome.

14. Altar Of The Fatherland

Also known as the Vittoriano, the Altar of the Fatherland is one of the best things to do in Rome in January, when the city's pace slows down and the crisp air refreshes your mind.

This monumental tribute to Victor Emmanuel II, the first king of the unified Italy, provides one of the best panoramic views of Rome city center from its terraces.

In January , the lesser crowds mean you can take your time to explore every detail of the structure without the push and shove of peak tourist seasons. Remember to dress warmly and wear good shoes as you’ll have to climb the steps to the top.

15. Mouth of Truth

The Bocca della Verità is one of the best non-touristy things to do in Rome.

Get yourself a slice of Roman folklore and history in the portico of the Church of Santa Maria in Cosmedin. Legend has it that this ancient marble mask will bite off the hand of those who lie!

Our best advice? Go early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the small crowds that do gather.

This way you’ll get your own personal moment with this amazing piece of Roman lore. Don’t forget to snap a photo of your encounter with this legendary lie detector!

Best Things to Do In Rome Outdoor

If you're eager to soak up the sun and enjoy the great outdoors, then look at these options to enjoy the capital’s sun.

16. Borghese Garden

If you like the outdoors and are looking for a romantic visit, then Borghese Garden is amongst the best things to do in Rome for couples.

Lush landscapes, charming pathways, romantic hideaways… Everywhere you’ll enjoy walking hand in hand.

The Borghese Gardens provide a picturesque setting for romance and house the renowned Borghese Gallery.

17. Trevi Fountain

You may wonder what the Trevi Fountain does on the list of things to plan in advance for when you visit Rome city center. The fountain is free to visit, isn’t it?

Indeed. But because of its popularity, it’s still worthwhile to plan your visit in advance. Visiting during the day in peak season can result in a horrible experience leaving you with bad memories of one of the prettiest Rome tourist attractions. The beauty of Neptune riding a shell-shaped chariot pulled by seahorses will be totally lost on you.

Our best tip is to visit the Trevi Fountain late at night when the crowds have gone to eat or sleep. The fountain is floodlit which bathes the sculptures in a romantic light. The perfect place to end your day.

Throwing a coin in the Trevi Fountain is one of the most popular must-see in Rome by tourists . It’s so popular that a million Euros worth of coins ends up in the fountain each year.

The Trevi Fountain is well worth seeing even if you don’t want to throw a coin into it. It’s the biggest fountain in Rome and arguably also the most beautiful. It has taken on many different shapes since the first version was built during the Renaissance, with the final touches provided by Guiseppe Pannini in 1762.

Getting there : The Trevi Fountain is near the Barberini Metro stop in the Trevi district. Or you can walk there in 10 minutes from the Spanish Steps.

18. Rome Bike Tours

The bike is a great way to enjoy the best things to do in Rome off the beaten path.

Our top advice? Choose a tour that takes you through the Trastevere neighborhood or along the Appian Way. It’s a great way to mix history and nature. Check out this one (It's an easy electric bike tour, no worries about getting tired) – Appia Antica & Caffarella Park: Guided E-Bike Tour.

These bike tours will allow you to cover more ground than you would on foot but also give you the freedom to stop wherever you want.

It’s also a clean way to visit the capital city and a good option if you want to keep your freedom and control over your visits.

19. Vatican Gardens

The Vatican Gardens is one of the best things to do in Rome in May  when the flowers are in full bloom and the weather is perfect for wandering.

Book a guided tour well in advance as access to the gardens is limited and only possible as part of a guided group.

This way you’ll have a glimpse into the Vatican's private oasis and enjoy its sculptures, fountains and grottoes dedicated to the Madonna.

A peaceful visit away from the bustling city, especially in May, when the weather is absolutely perfect.

20. Piazza Navona

Wondering what are the best things to do in Rome for couples?

Piazza Navona is one of the most romantic places in Rome city center.

There you’ll find beautiful fountains, baroque palaces, local restaurants, and street artists. Why not visit as the sun sets to see the square illuminated with a warm glow?

The atmosphere is then magical! Stop by one of the cozy cafés lining the square for an intimate dinner or a gelato in front of the view of Gian Lorenzo Bernini's Fountain of the Four Rivers.

21. Piazza Di Spagna

The Piazza di Spagna and the Spanish Steps are among the best things to do in Rome in June when the weather is warm and the city is more alive than ever.

Start your visit early in the morning to enjoy the steps in a quieter setting or visit late in the afternoon to catch the golden light of sunset facing the beautiful Trinità dei Monti church at the top.

June is the perfect time to see the steps adorned with colorful flowers? You’ll absolutely love the romantic and picturesque atmosphere of the square in the summertime!

22. Piazza Venezia

Piazza Venezia is one of the best things to do in Rome in July.

Take the time to admire the imposing Vittoriano monument (Altar of the Fatherland) which dominates the square and climb up to its terraces for a breathtaking view of Rome city center.

July evenings bring a cooler and more comfortable climate . It’s the perfect time to walk through the bustling streets and enjoy Piazza Venezia’s unique vibe.

23. Appian Way

Have you ever heard of Via Appia Antica?

Appian Way is undoubtedly one of the best things to do in Rome in October. The autumnal colors here are mesmerizing.

Don’t hesitate to rent a bike or take a walk to truly appreciate the road's historic significance. Stretching into the Roman countryside, this ancient road is lined with ruins, catacombs and lush greenery. October's mild weather is perfect for outdoor activities!

Don't forget to visit the Catacombs of San Callisto or San Sebastiano to immerse yourself deeper into early Christian Rome.

24. Walking Tiber River At Night

Wondering about the best things to do in Rome at night?

The Tiber River is one of the most romantic places in Rome after sunset. The pathway beside the river gets a whole new face as the city lights reflect off the water.

Start your walk from the Ponte Sant'Angelo, where you can enjoy stunning views of Castel Sant'Angelo lit up against the night sky, and meander towards Trastevere.

A great nocturnal journey to see Rome from a different perspective. Don’t forget to stop at one of the riverside bars or restaurants for a nightcap or a gelato!

25. Day Trips from Rome

Taking a day trip from Rome is a fantastic option if you have extra time—especially if you're searching for the best things to do in Rome on a Sunday.

The capital city surrounds itself with extraordinary natural and historical sites which are great for a day trip. Go walk through the ancient streets of Pompeii, savor a traditional Tuscan lunch amidst rolling hills or cruise along the stunning Amalfi coast…

The options are endless! If you’re looking for this kind of Sunday adventure, we would recommend you to book your tours in advance as Pompeii and Mount Vesuvio (see prices here) , Tuscan Countryside (tickets here) and the Almafi coast and Positano are amongst the most touristic sites in Italy.

26. Spanish Steps

Between the Piazza di Spagna at the base and Piazza Trinità dei Monti, go enjoy climbing some of the most famous stairs in the world.

The Spanish Steps are one of the best things to do in Rome in August to enjoy the summer sun. At the top, the Trinità dei Monti church awaits.

But even if August is a great time to visit, it’s also a crowded period.

So visit early in the morning to enjoy the steps before the day's heat and crowds set in. From the top, you’ll have access to one of the most beautiful views of the Eternal City.

27. Jewish Ghetto

The Jewish Ghetto is one of the best things to do in Rome in December.

Prepare yourself to dive into the rich history and culture of Rome's Jewish community , the oldest in Europe, without the crowds of summer. With its narrow lanes and traditional restaurants, this historic quarter offers a total immersion.

Be sure to visit the Great Synagogue of Rome and join in a guided walking tour to learn about the area's history.

You’ll also get the chance to sample traditional Jewish-Roman dishes. Try out the artichokes alla giudia, they’re a delight!

28. Piazza Del Popolo

Piazza del Popolo is undoubtedly one of the best things to do in Rome in winter thanks to its magical vibe during the cooler months.

Framed by its iconic churches and the ancient Egyptian obelisk at its center, this expansive square provides a wonderful decor for winter walks under the crisp and clear skies of Rome. Wrap up warmly and take the time to explore the surrounding areas.

There you’ll find the beautiful Santa Maria del Popolo Church , home to works by Caravaggio. We would also advise you to climb the Pincio Hill for a stunning view of the city!

29. Trastevere

Amongst the best free things to do in Rome, we would never recommend enough Trastevere .

This historical neighborhood boasts medieval architecture, dynamic piazzas, nice hotels , and many cafes and restaurants. If you’re looking for the best local things to do in Rome, then you just found the perfect place.

30. Campo de’ Fiori

In autumn, Campo de’ Fiori square bursts into life each morning with vendors offering fresh produce, flowers, and local delicacies.

This is why a visit to this square can easily be one of the best activities in Rome in November. It's the perfect spot to immerse yourself in the daily life of Romans!

As evening falls, Campo de’ Fiori transforms into a vibrant social hub. Settle into one of the bars or restaurants and savor Roman cuisine and wine.

Best Things to Do In Rome for Art And Museum Lovers

Rome brims with some of the world's most renowned galleries, ancient sculptures, and Renaissance and Baroque art masterpieces.

Art lovers, you’ll absolutely love what the capital city has to offer.

31. Borghese Gallery

As home to one of the world’s greatest private art collections, the Borghese Gallery is the 9th most visited tourist attractions in Italy . Close to 500,000 people visit the gallery in a beautiful villa set in the expansive Borghese Garden every year.

You should book in advance to visit the Borghese Gallery. You ask why? Well, visitors to the Borghese Gallery are limited to 360 at a time in 2-hourly slots. To avoid disappointment, it’s essential to book your Villa Borghese tickets well in advance. Get your Borghese Gallery skip the line tickets here.

32. Vatican Museums

The Vatican City is often referred to as the “Museum of Museums” or the Pope’s Museums. They house the extensive collections of art, archaeology, and ethno-anthropology gathered by different Popes over the centuries.

Visitors to the Vatican Museums also get to see some of the Apostolic Palace’s magnificent artistically significant rooms. The highlight, for sure, is the famous Sistine Chapel (see below).

If you don’t have much time to see all the Rome tourist attractions (although technically the Vatican, as an autonomous state, isn’t part of Rome) you simply must plan ahead.

We recommend booking your ticket ( on this website ) at least a week in advance during the busy tourist seasons. If not, you may find yourself in the unfortunate position where no tickets are available during the period of your Rome stay.

33. Sistine Chapel

Michelangelo created several masterpieces, but the Sistine Chapel is considered to be one of his best, if not the best. He spent four years, from 1508 to 1512, painting the frescoes of the Sistine Chapel’s ceiling. It’s mainly the prospect of seeing this beautiful artwork that drives millions of visitors through the Vatican Museum.

If the Sistine Chapel is the main reason for your visit to the Vatican Museum, you most definitely don’t want to be stuck in queues at the entrance. Get there quickly by buying your skip-the-line ticket more than a week in advance. Better still, avoid the crowds by booking an early access Vatican Museums tour (also skip the line) – take a look here. 

34. Capitoline Hill and Museums

The world’s oldest public museum is on Capitoline Hill and dates to 1471. A Rome travel guide must include the two grand pallazi facing each other across the Piazza del Campidoglio (Capitol Square) between the two peaks of Capitoline Hill.

The square and the buildings flanking it were designed by none other than Michelangelo.

Must see artifacts in the Capitoline Museums include the bronze she-wolf which is Rome’s emblem, a statue of Pope Urban VIII by Gian Lorenzo Bernini, as well as a remarkable collection of paintings by famous artists such as Caravaggio and Tintoretto.

Getting there : Most Rome public buses go around the Piazza Venezia which is right at the Capitoline Museums. Or you could take the Metro to the Colosseum and walk there along the side of the Roman Forum (about 10 minutes).

35. Palazzo Doria Pamphilj

The Palazzo Doria Pamphilj is the perfect place if you are looking for the best things to do in Rome on a rainy day.

It offers shelter from the weather alongside its stunning art collection. Nestled in the heart of Rome, this palace houses one of the city’s richest private art collections. You’ll find some works by Raphael , Caravaggio, and Velázquez , among others.

Take your time to explore the opulent rooms and galleries and don’t hesitate to take the audio guide to get some insights into the history of the art and the aristocratic residence.

Religious Sites

From the awe-inspiring St. Peter's Basilica and the grandeur of the Pantheon to the relaxed atmosphere of Santa Maria Maggiore, discover these holy sites and dive into Rome's deep religious heritage.

36. St Peter’s Basilica

No Rome travel guide is complete without the inclusion of the Vatican even though, as the smallest independent state in Europe , it’s not really a part of Rome. Surrounded by the eternal city, the Vatican City is home to around 1,000 people of which the Pope is the most famous.

The top attractions in the Vatican City’s surface area of 0,44 km² are the Vatican Museums, including the Sistine Chapel, as well as St Peter’s Square and St Peter’s Basilica.

Until recently the largest church in the world, the most impressive part of Basilica is the huge dome whose design was started by Michelangelo and completed by Carlo Maderno in 1614. Art highlights inside include Gian Lorenzo Bernini’s St Peter’s Baldachin, The Pietà by Michelangelo and the statue of St Peter on his throne.

Entry to St Peter’s is free. However, unless you visit in winter, you can expect to wait in the admission line for around 45 minutes due to strict security checks at the entrance.

Once again, you can plan ahead and save precious time by buying skip-the-line tickets – St. Peter’s Basilica with Dome Climb. You should also take note that some areas within the church are only accessible with special tickets or on a guided tour .

Getting there : Getting to the Vatican is easy by bus, metro, taxi or on foot. Buses 64, 62, 40 and 81 stop within an easy walking distance from the Vatican. Or you could take the Metro line A and get off at Cipro (closer to the Vatican museum) or Ottaviano (closer to St Peter’s Square).

One of the best things to do in Rome at Christmas is to visit Basilica and enjoy the festive atmosphere.

37. Basilica of Saint John Lateran

As the oldest and highest ranking of the four papal major basilicas, the Basilica of Saint John Lateran houses sacred relics and stunning works of art.

It really is a must-visit if you’re interested in the spiritual heritage of Rome. Don’t hesitate to join in a paid tour to fully appreciate the basilica's history, architecture, and its role within the Christian community. Or simply get an entry ticket for €10.

38. Santa Maria Maggiore

It’s one of the major basilicas in Rome. Santa Maria Maggiore is among the best things to do in Rome for young adults looking to know more about religion, history and art.

Known for its breathtaking mosaics dating back to the 5th century, the monument takes some time to visit. So don't rush your visit and take the time to absorb every detail of the mosaics.

A guided tour for €25 will probably enhance your understanding and appreciation of this historic site. Or simply get an entry ticket for €7.50.

Best Things to Do In Rome for Foodies

Rome invites you to a culinary journey like no other! Sample authentic Roman dishes , participate in a cooking class or join in on a food tour through the local markets…

Food lovers will for sure fall in love with Rome’s culinary culture.

39. Eat Gelato

Prepare yourself for a quintessential Roman experience! With artisanal gelaterias scattered throughout the city, you’ll have access to a range of classic and innovative flavors.

We’re pretty sure you’re about to eat the best ice cream of your life! Seek out the gelaterias that prioritize quality ingredients and traditional methods.

You’ll be able to recognize them by their seasonal flavors and the absence of bright and artificial colors. Pistachio, hazelnut and ricotta with fig are amongst the most traditional flavors.

40. Rooftop Bars In Rome

Get a new and unique perspective of the city. Rome boasts many rooftop bars with panoramic views.

Some luxurious terraces overlook historical landmarks and some hidden rooftops are nestled atop boutique hotels. Each of them provides their own special glimpse into the Eternal City's grandeur.

We would advise you to make a reservation around sunset , when the city's ancient stones and baroque domes are bathed in a golden glow…

41. Roman Street Markets

It’s probably one of the best ways to immerse yourself in Italian culture and way of life. Campo de' Fiori, Porta Portese flea market…

Each Roman market has its very own vibe. It’s a great way to enjoy the local cuisine and craftsmanship.

Start visiting the markets early to catch the freshest produce and the best bargains and don't hesitate to sample the street food and chat with local vendors for a truly immersive experience.

42. Pizza & Pasta

If we had to choose only one food to try out during your Roman trip, this would undoubtedly be Italian pizza or pasta.

Amongst the best things to do in Rome in March is the food tour. Rome’s streets are still quiet and the climate begins to warm.

The conditions are perfect to go from one restaurant to another. Here you’ll have to venture beyond the tourist spots to where the locals eat.

Few Things to Know Before You Go to Rome

Before you head to Rome, here are a few practical tips to keep in mind, ensuring a smoother and more enjoyable experience during your visit.

Best Time to Visit Rome

Rome is pretty much a year-round destination, depending on what your preference is. Spring and autumn (March-May and September-November) are the best times to visit Rome in pleasant, mild temperatures.

If you don’t like crowds and queuing, then the winter months outside the Christmas holidays are a good time for the visit. The summer months of July and August can be hot and busy. Then again, there’s a special charm to long summer evenings in Rome.

Visiting Rome with Kids

Filled with interactive museums, sprawling parks and historical sites that spark imagination and wonder, Rome is an absolute delight for families.

To make the most of your family trip, we offer tailored travel guides on visiting Rome with toddlers , Guide on visiting Rome with kids , and Rome with teens. There you’ll find activities ideas suited to each age group.

Restaurant Charges

While tipping in Rome is not expected because a service charge is mostly included in your bill, there are some other restaurant charges you should be aware of.

A cover charge (coperto) may be charged for the use of cutlery, salt, etc. However, this is illegal in Lazio where Rome is situated. Also, be aware that you may be charged extra for bread (pane).

Top Annual Events in Rome

• 21 April – Rome’s birthday – “Born” in 753 BC, Rome celebrates its birthday in great fashion with costumed processions and gladiator fighting at historical sites.
• Holy Week & Easter – Especially the Saturday before Palm Sunday when St Peter’s Square is packed full of people for the open-air Mass.
• Carnival in February/early March – 2 weeks of dressing up and having fun parties before Lent.
• Festa della Repubblica on 2 June – This national holiday commemorates the founding of the Italian Republic in 1946. In Rome, you’ll be able to attend a grand military parade along Via dei Fori Imperiali, attended by the President of the Republic, as well as a spectacular aerial display by the Frecce Tricolori.
• Estate Romana (Roman Summer) June-September – A season filled with cultural events, outdoor concerts, cinema under the stars and various performances set against the backdrop of Rome's most beautiful landmarks. The city comes alive with activities for all ages.
• Christmas Markets in December – Throughout December, Rome transforms with festive lights and Christmas markets, especially in Piazza Navona. It’s a great time to enjoy holiday decorations, traditional food and find artisanal gifts.

Roma Tourist Taxes

A tourist tax is levied on travelers staying in Rome. The amount depends on the accommodation class.

For example, the tax per night per adult in a 3-star hotel is €6 while those staying in a 5-star hotel will pay €10. Children under 10 don’t pay tourist taxes in Rome.

How to Avoid Crowds

The best time in Rome to avoid the crowds and long entrance lines in Rome is to visit in winter (outside the Christmas and New Year’s holidays). Even then it may be a good idea to book your tickets in advance to minimize time spent in the cold winter air.

If you visit at any other time, and especially between June and September , you will be so happy you planned in advance when you arrive at a busy Rome attraction with your pre-purchased skip the line ticket in hand.

Rome Passes to Fully Enjoy the Top Attractions

There are various Rome sightseeing passes designed to suit different interests and itineraries.

They are well worth considering if you don’t want to miss out on the attractions that are a must see in Rome.

Is the Roma Pass Worth Buying in Advance?

When planning the best things to do in Rome in advance, you may wonder whether the Roma Pass is worth buying ?

The 48-hour Roma Pass includes free public transport and entry into two museums or archaeological sites, with discounts to more.

When doing your planning, you should consider how much time you have and which of the Rome attractions are a must-see in your book. Sometimes it’s better to buy individual tickets with skip the line features or even a tour with a guide which includes fast-track access.

Rome City Pass (Rome Tourist Card) – Best for All Must-See in Rome

Rome City Pass (or Rome Tourist Card )– A good option if it’s your first time in Rome.

The Rome City Pass includes entrance to the Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel, St Peter’s Basilica, Colosseum and Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill. The Rome City Pass can be bought online (check here) from €89 per adult.

Omnia Card – A very comprehensive 3-day Rome sightseeing pass that includes public transport in Rome, entrance to the Vatican Museum and Sistine Chapel, 2 free entrances from the Roma Pass list, official audio guide to St. Peter's Basilica, and more. Click here for all the features and to buy it online from €149.

So, what are you waiting for? Start planning your trip to the eternal city with our handy Rome travel guides.

Experiencing the top must-see in Rome has never been easier with different sightseeing passes and fast track admission tickets that can conveniently be bought online before your visit.

Final Words about the Best Things to Do in Rome

Take a moment to unwind and carefully craft your itinerary while considering the best things to see and do in Rome that resonate with your preferences.

We all have different vibes, and for me, visiting the Colosseum (all tickets here) , enjoying some good gelato, exploring Trastevere's narrow streets, and grabbing a drink at a rooftop bar in Rome hit the spot. But if you're the type to see and do it all, the guide above should give you some ideas to plan your trip.

Or you could check out these Rome city tours on tiqets.com and let the travel guides lead the way. Enjoy a hassle-free guided tour without the need to worry about planning.

Fanny is a music and travel lover who has been visiting Rome since 2012. She is the founder and main editor of the Roma Pass blog and she like to share the best things to do in Rome.

Grazie! Will check out!

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4 Days in Rome: Locals Reveal the Best Way to Spend a Long Weekend in the Eternal City

Zip around on the back of a vespa, feast on reimagined cacio e pepe , and visit an ancient archaeological site that most tourists skip..

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The Temple of Aesculapius, in the gardens of the Villa Borghese, dates back to the late 18th century.

Photo by Laura Itzkowitz

Baroque churches containing artistic masterpieces, gurgling fountains, cocktails clinking on rooftop terraces, freshly baked pizza bianca —these are some of the sights, sounds, and scents that await you in Rome. You could explore ancient ruins in the morning, eat spaghetti carbonara at a trattoria for lunch, and sip creative cocktails at one of the city’s coolest bars at night. Now, thanks to an influx of hip new hotels and restaurants, plus reopened archaeological sites, Rome is definitely having a moment . After nearly five years of living here and more than a decade of visiting prior to that, I’ve gotten to know the best of the old and the new. This itinerary, designed for a Thursday to Sunday, reveals my insider intel as well as that of a few local experts.

Thursday: Get your bearings with a Vespa tour and dive deep into Trastevere

Trastevere, home to the Piazza di Santa Maria, is still one of Rome’s buzziest neighborhoods.

Whenever my family and friends come to Rome, I tell them to do a Vespa tour with Scooteroma and everyone raves about it. Hop on the back for a three-hour tour and feel the wind in your hair as one of their professional drivers-guides shows you the sights. Its classic tour is perfect for first-time visitors, but it also has several themed tours, including a street art tour, cinema tour, and foodie tour.

The tour will end just in time for lunch, so ask your guide to drop you off in Trastevere, one of the most quintessential Roman neighborhoods . Once a working-class area, it has gentrified over the years, but is still characterized by narrow cobblestone lanes draped with ivy and laundry hanging from the windows of apartments. Maria Pasquale, an award-winning Italian Australian journalist and author of several books, including Eternal City: Recipes & Stories from Rome , has called the neighborhood home for more than a decade. For a quick lunch she recommends the take-out spot Supplì , saying it offers “a taste of true Roman street fare.” In addition to the supplì (fried rice balls with a breadcrumb crust), she recommends the marinara pizza, which she calls “thin, crispy, and super saucy, with just the right balance of garlic, herbs, and tomato.” Bring your food a couple of blocks to the Piazza di Santa Maria in Trastevere and take a seat on the steps of the fountain, which is like the neighborhood’s living room, where locals and tourists hang out, enjoy the sunshine, and perhaps smoke a cigarette surrounded by bustling sidewalk cafés.

Afterwards, if you need a pick-me-up, pop into Bar San Calisto , an authentic no-frills spot where you’re as likely to spot a group of old men playing cards as a young musician drinking a beer in the sunshine. Join the Romans having a quick espresso at the bar or take a seat at the tables out front for some prime people-watching. From there, you’re only a 10-minute walk to Villa Farnesina , one of Rome’s best and most underrated sites. Commissioned by the wealthy banker Agostino Chigi on the occasion of his marriage, the villa contains incredible ceiling frescoes painted by Raphael in 1518, which depict the marriage of Cupid and Psyche.

For dinner, Giorgia Tozzi, the general manager of Soho House Rome , and Maria Pasquale both recommend Pianostrada , which recently moved from its location near the Jewish Ghetto to Via della Luce in Trastevere. “Experience a Roman culinary revolution at Pianostrada, a local hot spot owned by a visionary team of women,” says Pasquale. For the four partners—autodidact chef Paola Colucci, her daughters Flaminia and Alice Spognetta, and their friend Chiara Magliocchetti—the move is actually a homecoming, as Pianostrada originally opened as a gourmet street food spot in Trastevere in 2014. “From tempura-fried zucchini flowers to artisanal focaccia topped with prosciutto and figs, each dish is a masterpiece of innovation and tradition,” Pasquale says.

Friday: Delve into Rome’s baroque glory in the historic center

Entry to the Pantheon is free on the first Sunday of the month.

Today you’ll set out on foot to see Rome’s most famous monuments and piazzas. Start early in the morning at the Trevi Fountain, since that tends to attract the most crowds during the day. From there, it’s a 10-minute walk to the Pantheon , which is Rome’s best-preserved ancient monument because it was converted into a Catholic church in 609 C.E. If you’re ready for breakfast, head around the corner to the Caffè Tazza d’Oro for a cappuccino.

Continue walking west and you’ll come to Piazza Navona, the city’s most beautiful baroque piazza, where you can admire Bernini’s majestic Fountain of the Four Rivers. The streets surrounding it are lined with shops, restaurants, and cafés as well as under-the-radar museums like Palazzo Altemps , which is one of the seats of the Museo Nazionale Romano housed inside a noble palace containing magnificent 16th-century grotesque (i.e., inspired by decorations found in ancient Roman grottoes) frescoes. (Definitely pop in if you have time!)

Head north on Via della Scrofa, which becomes Via di Ripetta, and you’ll find yourself in the posh area around the Spanish Steps, where designer stores vie for shoppers’ attention. Turn onto Via Tomacelli, then Via dei Condotti and in a few minutes’ you’ll arrive at Piazza di Spagna. Bernini’s boat-shaped fountain at the bottom of the steps is another eye-catching masterpiece worth noting before turning your attention to the steps themselves.

Take Via del Babuino and walk north toward Piazza del Popolo, the large round piazza with an Egyptian obelisk flanked by sphinxes spouting water. This was once the northern gateway to Rome, and it’s another fine spot for people-watching, as fashionable locals cross the square on their way to bustling Via del Corso. Get a table at Canova , which was famed filmmaker Federico Fellini’s haunt, and have a salad or panino there or duck into the swanky Hotel de Russie for a plate of ravioli cacio e pepe at Le Jardin de Russie, a favorite of modern-day movie stars and VIPs.

In the afternoon, head up into Villa Borghese—the green heart-shaped park just up the hill from Piazza del Popolo. Inside the park, you’ll find a small lake with rowboats, a replica of Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre, and a handful of museums, including the spectacular Galleria Borghese (make sure you book in advance, as timed tickets are required). Afterwards, head over to the Pincio Terrace to catch the sunset with spectacular views of the city.

Ready for dinner? Hop on the metro at the Flaminio stop and take it to Re di Roma to try slightly elevated takes on Roman classics at Santo Palato run by young chef Sarah Cicolini. “I head to this trattoria with a twist for my favorite carbonara in Rome,” says Zoe Shapiro, founder of Stellavision Travel , a boutique feminist travel company that organizes size-inclusive tours in Italy . “The menu changes each day depending on fresh and seasonal ingredients, but stand-outs [including carbonara and oxtail meatball with peanut sauce and cacao] remain consistent and are paired with a wine list that highlights the next generation of Italian winemakers,” says Shapiro.

Saturday: See the treasures of the Vatican

There are a range of tours on offer at the Vatican Museums, including special itineraries for deaf and blind visitors.

The best way to see the Vatican Museums without the crowds is on an exclusive 6 a.m. tour with the key keeper, but barring that the next best thing is to go when the museum opens at 8 a.m. Home to some of the greatest works of art ever created by human hands, the Vatican Museums actually comprise 24 museums, plus various galleries and chapels. It would take all day to see the whole thing, but stick to the highlights (the Sistine Chapel, Raphael Rooms, the Statues Courtyard, and the Gallery of Maps) and you can get out in time for lunch.

Most people make a beeline to Bonci Pizzarium , which has a reputation as the best place for pizza al taglio (by the slice) in Rome, but pizzaiolo/baker Gabriele Bonci also has an eponymous bakery in the neighborhood that’s a bit of a local secret. There aren’t as many different toppings on the pizza, but it’s the same recipe.

Spend the afternoon exploring Prati, the neighborhood adjacent to the Vatican. Developed in the early 20th century, it may lack the cobblestone charm of the historic center, but it’s a busy business and shopping area where Romans hang out. Bustling Via Cola di Rienzo is the neighborhood’s main thoroughfare, where you’ll find midtier stores like Benetton for apparel, Geox for shoes, Castroni for gourmet foods, and the department store Coin. In Prati, Tozzi recommends visiting Casa Balla , the home of futurist artist Giacomo Balla (tours must be booked in advance).

Sunday: Follow the footsteps of Rome’s ancient emperors

The Court bar offers enviable views of the Colosseum.

By now you’ve learned that Romans start their day with breakfast at a bar, but aside from the ubiquitous cornetti , the most Roman pastry is a maritozzo . Try one at the historic Pasticceria Regoli near Piazza Vittorio, one of the city’s most diverse ethnic enclaves, where many Asian immigrants have opened shops and restaurants. You can find goods imported from the Middle East, Africa, Asia, South America, and beyond at the Nuovo Mercato Esquilino . From there it’s a quick walk to the Colosseum . New for 2024 is the ability to visit the attic level, featuring panoramic views and the Colosseum’s water management system (but make sure you book a ticket that includes it in advance). The same ticket grants you access to the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill. You’ll need about half a day to visit them all.

Give your feet a rest at La Taverna dei Fori Imperiali , a family-run restaurant located on the edge of Monti, the charming neighborhood just uphill from the Forum. Try one of the quartet of Roman pastas ( carbonara , cacio e pepe , amatriciana , and gricia ) or a twist on them, like its version of la gricia with seasonal fruit.

Then for an alternative take on Roman history, join Stellavision’s Women and Secrets of Ancient Rome tour. “This walking tour showcases Rome’s Jewish Ghetto, Capitoline Hill, and Forum while centering the stories omitted by most tour companies and pulling important historical figures from the margins of history books,” says Shapiro. Or head over to Largo di Torre Argentina (the archaeological site where Julius Caesar was assassinated), which is now accessible thanks to new walkways.

If you’re ready to splurge on a fabulous aperitivo , book a table at the Court , one of the city’s most creative cocktail bars, which happens to boast head-on views of the Colosseum. Afterwards, take a taxi to up-and-coming San Lorenzo to check out a restaurant suggested by Tozzi and Shapiro. “ Mazzo shuttered five years ago and recently reopened in a new location with a menu that modernizes classic Roman ingredients and honors the city’s ‘ cucina povera ’ history,” Shapiro notes.

Where to stay

Soho House Rome is a hub for creatives in the artsy, up-and-coming neighborhood of San Lorenzo with a rooftop pool, an outpost of Cecconi’s, a screening room, and a gym with yoga and Pilates classes. Guests who book a room can access the private club’s amenities.

For a tried-and-true stalwart, check into the Hotel de Russie , a Rocco Forte Hotel, which is home to the aforementioned Le Jardin de Russie restaurant in the “secret garden” as well as the chic Stravinskij Bar, which is set to reveal a refresh this spring.

Or check into one of these 15 hotels we love in Rome , such as Hotel de la Ville (sister to Hotel de Russie) or newcomers like the Rome Edition or Six Senses Rome.

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Are tour guides worth it/necessary? - Rome Forum

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I generally prefer to go without a tour guide when travelling but wasn't sure if the colosseum/Vatican are relatively easy to explore solo? Is it worth booking a guided tour? Also do I need tickets for solo touring of the Vatican and museum? Looking online all I can find are guided tours.

Tour guides are not necessary - if you normally prefer to go it alone, that is fine. The only caveat that I would add is that there are a few areas that can only be accessed via a tour when you are escorted by a tour guide. If you only want to visit the general admission areas of these attractions, then just buy an admission ticket without a tour.

>>Looking online all I can find are guided tours.<<

Are you looking at the official websites?

https://ecm.coopculture.it/index.php?option=com_snapp&view=products&snappTemplate=template3&catalogid=ADAE8874-AE4B-55B9-02FB-0167A81C0247&lang=en

Vatican Museums :

https://tickets.museivaticani.va/home

I would not have known what I was looking at without the guide

There are admission tickets (without any tour) for both the Vatican Museums and the Colosseum . The Colosseum is relatively simple to understand with fairly good signage. The places where I believe a guided tour really helps are the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill , which are very large, multi-layered sites where much lies in ruins. These are much harder to appreciate and understand. Usually, a tour of the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill also includes the Colosseum. As for the Vatican Museums, no guided tour is needed, but the museums are so large and so packed with art that for some people it is worth it to steer them through and hit a few highlights.

So, while I don't think guided tours are necessary, I think they are worth it, at least for the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill (assuming those places interest you).

Depending on group size, you may want to do a private tour. For a group of four the cost isn't that much different and experience can be tailored exactly as you want it.

if you are a normally inquisitive person with educational accomplishments under your belt in the form of solid university degrees there is no immediate need to waste money on tour guides especially those that masquerade as private drivers. What was your formal education? Size up yourself to determine if that general statement applies to you. You can educate yourself for the amount of knowledge the tour guide will have to deliver to you during a short tour. Do not waste money or time on these endeavors. For poor compatibility among tour group members you might be wasting money and time. You should politely interview beforehand all prospective group tour members to readily determine if you have something in common with them to spend time with them in a guided organized tour. Reserve the right to say 'no "when asked to join the group at no cost to you. Admission with tickets to the Vatican museums might be required so plan ahead of time to obtain them, Comments from response # 4 have some value so do not dismiss them. While the Vatican art museums can over-whelm visitors educate yourself before hand and know what to look for there. A second visit might be in order for more than a follow up. You are dealing with large amounts of details that many visitors are now ready to deal with and manage easily during one visit. Tour guides might tell you what you can learn by yourself. Size up yourself and determine what do you grasp readily on your own about art. It is the mere repetition of so many names and places and calendar dates that confuses and overwhelms so many people not prepared to accept or deal with the large quantity of information. Note taking does not help. Research about the art periods will help. If you live near a large university that offers degrees and courses in art history and things Italian or related to the Vatican with regard to art go there and ask many questions. What knowledge about art will you bring with you and how will you want to utilize it there?

"The tour follows an itinerary which includes: the Pio Clementino Museum, the Gallery of the Candelabras, the Gallery of the Geographical Maps, and the Gallery of the Tapestries (Renaissance art), the Raphael Rooms and the Sistine Chapel."

However, there are numerous other museums (within the Vatican Museums) such as the Egyptian Museum or the Pinacoteca (Painting Gallery) that are wonderful. Here's a list of all the museums:

https://m.museivaticani.va/content/museivaticani-mobile/en/collezioni/musei.html

And, some of the "masterpieces": https://m.museivaticani.va/content/museivaticani-mobile/en/collezioni/capolavori.html

For most first time visitors, the standard tour is fine, but if your interests are in places not covered by the standard tour, or you have a deeper interest in a particular museum collection, it may not be the right choice for you.

By the way, tickets are required for the Vatican Museums, but are not required for the other parts of the Vatican ( St. Peter's Square and St. Peter's Basilica ) open to visitors, the exception being tickets (free) are needed to the basilica for certain papal events.

I'd put it this way.

When are you coming back? If you're able to visit regularly you can skip the guide and wander around on your own. What you miss will still be there the next time you visit.

If OTOH it's an once in a lifetime trip you might want a guide. But like many things it depends on how interested you are.

Unless things have changed, a tour guide is a must for the Vatican. Otherwise, you'll be standing in that miles long line outside - something that tour guides get special entry. Somebody correct me if this is old information.

You don't need to book a tour in order to bypass the long ticket lines at the Vatican museums, simple pre-purchased tickets will allow you to skip the long ticket lines. Guided tours AND those with pre-purchased tickets go in through the same entry.

Most venues also have audio guides that you can rent. This will allow you to go at your own pace, skip what is not of interest to you and costs a lot less than a guided tour.

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Are tours in Rome worth it?

Sean Finelli Last Updated: April 25, 2024

Rome has been one of the world’s most desirable destinations for over 2,000 years and counting. Much of its allure is due to its many layers, which can be peeled back like a beautiful rose. With so much to explore, you might ask: Is it worth it to take tours in Rome or should I try to explore it on my own? Read on to find out.

Pro Tip:  Bookmarks are the key to organizing a great trip. Bookmark this post in a “Rome” folder in your browser. This way you can circle back to it when you’re traveling. Also, check out our dedicated guide to planning your visit to Rome , which has everything you’ll need, and our top-rated Rome tours .

Are Rome Tours Worth It?

Short answer: Yes! Going on tours in Rome is definitely worth it. It’s also totally possible to explore on your own. Let’s explore why…

We looked at our customer travel trends and were blown away by the results. We found that 27.3% of trans-Atlantic travelers going to Rome for the first time come back to Rome within 5 years! And 43.9% of our European customers going to Rome for the first time also return within 5 years. Why?

Rome has food, culture, history, charm, and lots to do! People want to go back and experience all that the Eternal City has to offer. Then again, maybe it’s just that they fell in love with Rome’s iconic sites.

How do we know this? Our return travelers often re-book the same tours on their second trip since they loved the guided experience the first time and want to re-live it or share it with others.

So, should you book tours or explore on your own?

Definitely do both. The advantage of small group tours is that you get access to these sites earlier in the morning when it’s cooler. Then, you have free time to eat a delicious Roman pizza or trapizzino and explore the streets of this ancient city as the evening rolls into night.

Exploring on your own and getting lost is great but should be done by design as not all areas of Rome are equal. Consider reading through our online guidebook for Rome to ensure you find great restaurants, free things to do, and attractions to visit.

Not ready to book a tour? Check out our  best Rome tours to take and why .

What Are the Most Popular Tours in Rome?

So what do people want to do in Rome the most? We ran a poll on our Instagram @thetourguy and asked that question to over 200 people and here’s what they picked.

The results are in and—no surprise—people go to Rome to eat pasta above all else! That said, seeing history is a close second and it makes a lot of sense since the city has been inhabited for 3,000 years. Think: cobblestones, catacombs, and Colosseum.

Today’s city is filled with many of the very same monuments that you would have seen in Rome when Jesus Christ was alive. This incredible step back in time is very much the reason why people come to Rome over and over—and food is an amazing bonus.

The Vatican Museums and St. Peter’s Basilica

The Vatican is the most visited monument in Rome and the fourth-most visited museum on Earth according to Statista.com. It usually has more than 6 million visitors each year. That means lots of crowds to plan around, and the best way is to skip the line with a tour guide. Plus they’ll help you navigate the best areas of the 9 miles of exhibits to save your feet!

The museum is full of electrifying masterpieces by the likes of da Vinci, Michelangelo, Raphael, Bernini, and even ancient works that are 2,000 years old! Vatican tours are our most popular tour in Europe and widely recommended by travelers as you’ll see from the reviews.

On my first visit to the Vatican, I did not take a tour and I remember speeding through rooms on a mad dash to see the Sistine Chapel . A few years later, on my second visit, I took a tour and realized I was walking by works from Italian masters like Raphael!

Not ready to book a tour? Check out our  best Vatican tours to take and why.

The Colosseum

The Colosseum comes in at a close second after the Vatican. This ancient amphitheater normally receives over six million visitors per year. It is an incredible monument and the symbol of Rome. Visitors also gain access to the Palatine Hill and Roman Forum when visiting the Colosseum but you can read more about that in our how to visit articles .

There is a lot of misinformation surrounding this incredible monument so taking a tour is mission critical. Guides make it a lot better and we run small groups which average between 14 and 15 people. Definitely check out our Colosseum tours for more.

Not ready to book a tour? Check out our  best Colosseum tours to take and why.

Food tours hit the scene in Rome as far back as 2010 and we’ve been running them since 2013. In fact, if a Rome food tour is on your list, then we have the perfect option: A walking food tour with a sit-down dinner in trendy Trastevere . Need we say more?

Ok, we will. Why not also look at a pasta-making class so you can channel your inner Italian chef and wow your friends and family when you go home? Food in Italy is second-to-none and you can learn why on that and any of our other food tours.

Day Trips To Pompeii

Ok, we know that Pompeii is not in Rome, but this famous city is a huge draw for anyone visiting the Eternal City. We have a Pompeii from Rome day trip with a stop in Sorrento that gives you the perfect chance to explore Pompeii (with a guide) and Sorrento (on your own).

It is definitely a long day, but you likely won’t have a car in Rome, and there isn’t much in the way of trains in southern Italy. So make it easy on yourself and let us take care of the details while you sit back and enjoy your day trip.

If you want a more private experience, we also created small group and private tours to Pompeii from Rome. For more inspiration, read more on Pompeii to plan your trip.

Not ready to book a tour? Find out if a Pompeii day trip from Rome is worth it .

Rome Catacombs

A trip to Rome really ought to include a visit to the early burial sites of the Eternal City. They’re intentionally placed outside the city along the famous Appian Way that still has original carriage wheel ruts in the street.

There are lots of catacombs and crypts that hold the bones of tens of thousands of Christians, popes, and others. Our tour visits the St. Callixtus catacombs and the Capuchin Crypts. The crypts are where you’ll see ornamental displays of bones and skeletons.

So is it worth booking a tour? Well, the catacombs aren’t in the center of Rome, which means they’re tricky to get to. Leaving the logistics to a tour guide makes for an easy and informative experience in these eerie sites of ancient Rome. You can book a day or night tour of the catacombs, whichever is best for your schedule.

Not ready to book a tour? Find out how to visit the Rome Catacombs .

Borghese Gallery

If you’ve been to Rome before, or you have an extra afternoon here, why not head to a super amazing museum that almost never has crowds? The Borghese Gallery or Galleria Borghese is one of Rome’s premier museums and a personal favorite. The gallery is small but also only lets in a few hundred visitors for 2-hour time slots which makes it a fan favorite.

Beyond that, the gallery is—pound for pound—one of the greatest collections on Earth. It is highlighted by some of Bernini’s most incredible sculptures including Apollo and Daphne . Sound familiar? Bernini also made the one-of-a-kind Baldacchino at St. Peter’s Basilica! Oh, and he designed St. Peter’s Square.

While the gallery may or may not be a must-visit for your first trip to Rome, it is definitely a museum you’ll want to visit with a guide. We have a great private Borghese Gallery tour that is time tested and beloved by customers.

Not ready to book a tour? Find out how to visit the Borghese Gallery .

Tuk Tuk Sightseeing Tour

Rome is a walkable city, but you’re going to need lots of water and stamina, plus some great walking shoes. Why not make it easier by letting our friendly, local tuk tuk driver zoom you through the city? It’s the fastest (and most comfortable) way to see Rome’s megamonuments—and everything in between—in a couple hours.

The tuk tuk is an electric vehicle so you can also have peace of mind if you’re conscientious about green tourism. But we think you’ll just love riding with your private group and your friendly driver who loves to talk about Rome and all her hidden treasures.

Not ready to book a tour? Check out our  Rome Guide for more info.

Barberini Gallery

If the Borghese Gallery is crowned by sculptures, the Barberini is its sister museum for paintings. Inside you’ll find one of Raphael’s most famous works of art which is La Fornarina . La Fornarina depicts a baker’s daughter who posed for Raphael on a few occasions.

Raphael was well known for never sleeping alone and rarely with the same woman. Nevertheless, Margarita Luti is often recognized as the woman who stole his heart. Be sure to check out our private Barberini Gallery tour if you are visiting Rome on your second trip.

Palazzo Altemps and Navona

Palazzo Altemps is one of my favorite and most personal galleries in Rome. It is a quiet escape from Rome and a beautiful collection of antiquities. Like most Roman galleries, this museum is the former home of a noble Roman family.

The Ludovico family were the final owners of this palace, which they eventually gifted it to the city of Rome. It was later converted into the museum you see today. The main event of the gallery is the cloister (featured right), the Ludovico Battle Sarcophagus, and the Suicidal Gaul.

This is a great gallery to explore on your own if you read up on it. You can also visit with a guide and see a few other nearby monuments. Our tour of Palazzo Altemps includes a deep exploration underneath Piazza Navona to the former Stadium of Domitian.

Yes, there is an ancient stadium under Piazza Navona. Don’t miss it!

Where To Stay in Rome

Rome has a rich cultural history and many iconic landmarks to explore. Plan where to stay in the magnificent Eternal City in the best neighborhoods.

Reader Interactions

Comment (1).

July 20, 2023

Hello! I just finished reading your blog post about whether it’s worth taking tours in Rome, and I must say, it’s a thoughtful and insightful exploration of the benefits of guided tours in this magnificent city. Rome is a treasure trove of history and art, and your insights and recommendations shed light on the advantages of taking tours to fully appreciate its wonders.

Your points about saving time and avoiding long queues are very valid. It’s evident that you want your readers to have a smooth and efficient experience while exploring the iconic attractions of Rome.

I appreciated how you highlighted the value of local guides in providing in-depth knowledge and context to the historical sites. Having a knowledgeable guide can truly enhance the overall experience and help visitors better understand the significance of the landmarks.

Your emphasis on the convenience and stress-free nature of guided tours is commendable. For travelers who want a seamless and well-organized visit to Rome, taking a guided tour seems like an excellent option.

The personal anecdotes and experiences you shared added a relatable touch to the article. It’s clear that you have a passion for travel and want your readers to have the best possible experience in Rome.

Thank you for sharing such a valuable and informative blog post. Your insights have certainly made me consider the benefits of taking guided tours in Rome, and I’ll be sure to keep this in mind when planning my own trip. Keep up the fantastic work, and I’ll be eagerly waiting for more of your travel insights and recommendations!

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What do you need tickets for in Rome?

Home / Blog / What do you need tickets for in Rome?

Visiting Rome is a wonderful experience, but it can be negatively impacted by long queues that form during peak tourist seasons to access the main attractions.

It is important to be advised that most of Rome’s points of interest are ticketed. Increasingly, attractions that used to be free now require a small fee to enter. Booking those tickets in advance always proves to be the winning move!

This article aims to provide clarity on what is ticketed, why those tickets are put in place, and how best to strategize your plans in Rome to not let tickets dampen your trip!

Do you need reservations for attractions in Rome?

Unlike some other European capitals, you do need tickets for most entrances in Rome. There are a number of reasons for this:

• Cultural preservation: All that has remained from ancient Rome is a marvel and nods toward the architectural capabilities present at that time. However, it has taken years of careful preservation and funds to make that possible. Ticket sales for sites are used to re-invest in their heritage conservation.
• Organization issues: To say that Rome is a widely visited city would be an understatement. Throngs of people come to see the biggest landmarks, and so as a strategy to try and contain these crowds, ticket sales are used in order to shorten lines and limit the number of people who can enter a site during a given time.
• Safety issues: The centuries-old landmarks of Rome as well as the artifacts held in more contemporary buildings remain delicate in nature. For the safety of visitors as well as in terms of protecting these priceless artifacts from harm, it is best to have crowd-control procedures in place, such as the ticketing of venues.

However, as locals of the Eternal City, we are here to assure you that making a budget for tickets to Rome’s greatest attractions is well worth it. These experiences allow you to be absorbed by one of the grandest histories of all time, and provide a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. You might as well explore properly!

Where should you buy tickets?

Yes, it is possible to buy tickets on-site for these most attractions,  however we would strongly advise against doing so.

Especially during certain periods of the year, Rome becomes incredibly crowded and you can expect very long lines and hours of waiting. This could be harmful to your trip especially during a short stay, for example a one day trip to Rome or even a three day trip.

It is best to buy tickets through an online vendor. We offer more information on this at the end of the article, so read on!

What do I need tickets for in Rome?

If you have studied the Rome attraction map then you know that there are numerous points of interest in the city.

However, the classic landmarks aren’t all that there is to see in the Eternal City… not by a long stretch!

We have compiled a more comprehensive list of museums, galleries, historical sites, festivals and fairs that require ticket entries:

• Vatican Museums : These include the Sistine Chapel and Raphael rooms.
• Capitoline Museums : Located on the Capitoline Hill, it features ancient Roman art and artifacts.
• Borghese Gallery and Museum : Houses a vast collection of sculptures and paintings, including works by Bernini and Caravaggio.
• National Roman Museum (Museo Nazionale Romano) : Comprised of several sites like Palazzo Massimo alle Terme, Palazzo Altemps, Crypta Balbi and Baths of Diocletian.
• MAXXI – National Museum of 21st Century Arts : Dedicated to contemporary art and architecture.
• Galleria Nazionale d’Arte Moderna e Contemporanea (GNAM) : Focused on modern and contemporary Italian art.
• Ara Pacis Museum : Houses the Ara Pacis Augustae, an ancient altar dedicated to Pax, the Roman goddess of Peace.
• National Etruscan Museum at Villa Giulia : Displays artifacts from the Etruscan civilization.
• Castel Sant’Angelo : Now a museum, this 2nd century fortress features the Roman emperor Hadrian’s tomb.
• Galleria Spada : Built in 1927, this palace turned museum is home to countless 16th and 17th-century paintings.
• National Gallery of Ancient Art in Barberini Palace : An artfully crafted palace once owned by Pope Urban VIII that now holds ancient art.
• National Museum of Palazzo Venezia : Located in Piazza Venezia, this museum is home to fine art and antiquities.
• Museo Centrale Montemartini : Displays ancient Roman and Greek sculpted artifacts.
• MACRO – Museo d’Arte Contemporanea Roma : Once a brewery and slaughterhouse, this contemporary art museum is a haven for modern art lovers everywhere.
• Galleria Doria Pamphilj : A 17th century palace that houses an extensive fine art collection.
• Palazzo Colonna : A former palace with meticulously crafted frescos, gardens and painting collections.
• Museo Carlo Bilotti : This orangery-turned-gallery features modern masterpieces, like those by Andy Warhol.
• Museo delle Mura : An archeological museum housing ancient moasics and other antiquities.
• Museo Pietro Canonica : Set in Italian sculptor Pietro Canonica’s exhibition rooms, featuring his life’s work.
• Museo Hendrik Christian Andersen : Modern art museum with sculptures, paintings and other mixed media art exhibitions.
• Museo di Roma in Trastevere : Features fine art, photographs and recreations of ancient clothing and scenes.
• Museo Leonardo da Vinci : A small gallery featuring modern recreations of Leonardo da Vinci’s inventions.
• Casa di Goethe : Famed German writer Johann Wolfgang von Goethe’s Roman residence turned fine art and literary museum.
• Palazzo delle Esposizioni : A palace exhibiting countless contemporary art displays and a cinema.
• Museo Ebraio di Roma : A Jewish art and history museum located in the Great Synagogue of Rome.
• Palazzo Braschi : First opened in 1930, this civic museum houses both modern and ancient art.
• Museo Napoleonico : Exquisitely crafted palace and art museum dedicated to the famed Napoleon Bonaparte.
• Villa Medici : A 16th-century villa featuring extensive gardens and art exhibitions.
• Casa Museo di Giorgio de Chirico : A 16th-century palace with historically accurate furnishings and fine art.
• Muciv – Museo delle Civiltà : Houses prehistoric and ethnic art from around the world.

Recurring Fairs & Events: 

• Rome Film Festival : An annual film festival featuring international and Italian films.
• Estate Romana : A summer festival with various events, concerts and performances across the city, for example, Rock in Roma.
• Roma Jazz Festival : Celebrates jazz music with performances by international and local artists.
• 1st of May Concert : A free, annual concert in celebration of Italian labor day.
• Festa della Repubblica (2nd of June): There is a military parade at the Imperial Forums and the garden palace of the Italian president is open to the public in the afternoon.
• New Year’s Eve Concert : Ring in the new year with this free New Year’s Eve concert, often held in Circo Massimo.

Historical Sites in Rome with Ticket

• Colosseum : This ancient amphitheater is an iconic Roman landmark.
• Roman Forum : These ruins were once a bustling ancient Roman marketplace.
• Pantheon : Once a holy Roman temple, this 2nd-century monument boasts the biggest unsupported dome to date.
• Baths of Caracalla : These 3rd-century bathhouses were once the second largest in Rome.
• Catacombs (Santa Domitilla, San Sebastiano) : Home to countless bodies and religious relics, these catacombs will leave you breathless.
• Trajan’s Forum and Market : Neighboring the Colosseum, this ancient market was once administrative buildings.
• Ara Pacis Augustae : This ancient monument was built in honor of Emperor Augustus’ military conquests.
• Castel Sant’Angelo : A 2nd-century fortress housing ancient relics and the Roman emperor Hadrian’s tomb.
• Vatican Museums : These famed museums feature thousands of ancient and contemporary art pieces from the Catholic church’s collection.
• Dome of St. Peter’s Basilica : Painted by famed artist Michelangelo Buonarroti, this ornate dome sits in the Vatican’s most iconic church.

What to book in advance in Rome?

Some of the aforementioned attractions should definitely be booked in advance – the earlier the better! This is due to them being wildly popular destinations for tourists, which means you could find yourself in ticket-buying lines that could last for hours! To avoid anything dampening your trip, here is a brief list of things to book in advance in Rome :

• The Vatican Museums
• The Colosseum
• The Borghese Gallery
• Doria Pamphili Gallery
• Palazzo Altemps
• Colonna Gallery
• Villa Farnesina Gallery

Always make sure to check for updates in ticketing online, as this information is always subject to change. For example, the Pantheon used to be a free historical attraction, and now requires a ticket for a minimal fee.

Where to book Rome tickets in advance?

A tour operator like Walks Inside Rome is a great solution to relieving any ticket-related anxiety.

Not only will you have the company purchasing and arranging all your tickets for you in advance, but you will also have the added benefit of high quality, beautifully curated tours of those sites with expert guides on hand who will share their knowledge and insights with you.

Sometimes tours suffer from the reputation of being obnoxious and stressful, but what Walks Inside Rome excels at is brilliant customer care and a vast portfolio of customizable tours . This way, you do not have to stick to a strict schedule, and can pick and mix different aspects of the itineraries offered!

How does ticket reservation work at WIR? 

All tours include the service of acquiring tickets for you.

There are two ways to book a tour:

• Direct booking: Some of our tours available on the website can directly be booked online; the option will be available next to the tour you are interested in!
• Sending a request: Some of the tours will prompt you to ‘Send a request’. One of our booking agents will reach out to you in order to answer any questions and guide you toward booking the perfect tour for you.

We hope to handle the logistics of your Roman holiday in order to make it as seamless of an experience as possible!

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How Long to Stay in Rome? Insider’s Advice on the Perfect Trip Length

• Isabelle Hoyne
• April 10, 2024

** Disclosure: some of the links on this site are affiliate links and should you make a purchase through these, I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thank you for your support!**

As a lifelong super-fan of Rome’s ancient wonders and a seasoned traveller to the city, I bring an informed perspective to help you plan your trip. This guide unravels how many days you need in Rome, ensuring you immerse fully in its glorious past, delectable food and vivacious culture.

Rome is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world, drawing millions of visitors each year. I’ve been one of them since childhood, with a return journey to Rome always presenting such an intoxicating proposition and an ability to get even deeper under its thick, millenia-old skin.

With so much to see and do in this ancient city, it can be difficult to determine how many days are needed for a visit.

Whether you’re looking for an action-packed few days or a leisurely extended stay, understanding how long it takes to properly experience Rome will help ensure that your trip is as enjoyable and memorable as possible.

Drawing on my wealth of experience and passion for all things Roman, I’ll help you navigate through how many days you need in Rome for a truly immersive experience. From historical explorations to gastronomic adventures, this guide is your blueprint to creating the perfect Roman holiday.

Quick links for booking your trip to Rome

Logistics : shuttle bus from Fiumicino / shuttle bus from Ciampino / private transfer Save on entry fees : If you plan on seeing a lot of sights, then purchase a Roma Pass to save money Top-rated Rome tours and experiences : ☆  VIP Pristine Sistine Vatican Tour (my favourite Rome experience) ☆  Rome Food Tour by Sunset around Prati District (great for foodies) ☆  Borghese Gallery guided tour (perfect for art lovers) ☆  Skip-the line Colosseum tickets (essential to avoid queues) Top places to stay in Rome:  Kalos  (luxury apartment where I stayed) //  Palazzo Dama  (a quirky 5*) //  The Glam  (with rooftop pool) //  Casa Pietra  (a “luxe for less” gem) Don’t forget to pack : a  coverup  for entering churches // a  powerbank  for your phone //  Universal travel adapter  //  these **fantastic** compression packing cubes  //  ON Roger Federer Collection  (a tried & tested city shoe for the style conscious

Table of Contents

Why everyone should experience rome at least once in their lifetime, factors to consider when deciding how long to stay in rome, suggested lengths of time to spend in rome based on different types of trips, how much time it takes to visit rome’s major attractions, how many days should you spend in rome sample itineraries from 1 – 7 days, tips for making the most out of your trip while in rome, suggestions on how to extend your stay, wrapping up: so, how many days do you need in rome, then.

Rome is a city that exudes a sense of history and charm at every turn. Its ancient streets, which have been walked upon by emperors and philosophers alike throughout the ages, seem to whisper stories of the past with every step you take.

Bustling piazzas, filled with lively street performers and tenacious vendors peddling trinkets and souvenirs pulse with energy.

The constant hum of conversation and laughter, mixed with the sound of scooters and cars whizzing by, creates a symphony of sound that hangs in the air, enveloping you as you make your way around the city.

It’s no wonder that Rome is known as the “Eternal City” – the atmosphere here is like nowhere else on earth and buildings and monuments have changed, and people have come and gone.

You get the sense that its energy certainly has not and you too become part of the collective, joining the millions who have walked its hallowed streets throughout history.

It’s a place where the past and present collide, where the smell of freshly baked pizza and fragrant coffee invites you to stop and savour the moment, and where the vibrant colours of grand, ochre-hued buildings burst forth from every corner, inviting you to drink in the sights and sounds of this captivating city.

Rome is a city full of wonders, from the Colosseum and Roman Forum to the Pantheon and Vatican City. Visitors can explore iconic landmarks such as the Trevi Fountain, the Spanish Steps or Piazza Navona.

There are also plenty of museums and galleries showcasing various art collections from Italy’s past.

For those looking for something more active, there are walking tours of Rome’s many neighbourhoods or biking tours through its cobblestone streets and for foodies, there is no shortage of delicious Italian cuisine to be had in one of Rome’s many eateries.

Whether you are strolling through the cobblestone streets, admiring the stunning architecture, or savouring a bowl of pasta in a cosy trattoria, the atmosphere in Rome is sure to leave a lasting impression on your senses and your soul.

And so, with so much to see and do in Rome, it can be difficult to determine how long you need to stay to experience everything this amazing city has to offer – luckily, we’re here to help!

The perfect time for individual travellers can be as varied and unique as the city itself.

How much time do you have available?

What type of activities appeal to you most?

Will it be a romantic getaway with your beloved, or an epic adventure with friends?

While two days may be enough for some, others might need a week or more to truly take in the sights and sounds of Italy’s captivating capital.

Some factors in terms of how long you need to experience Rome include the following:

• Your interests and priorities: Consider the types of attractions and activities that interest you the most and prioritize those when planning your itinerary. For example, if you are a history buff , you may want to spend more time exploring ancient ruins and museums. If you are an art lover, you may want to allocate more time to visiting galleries and churches to soak in some famous works of art.
• Season of travel : Rome’s weather can vary significantly depending on the time of year, so consider the season when planning your trip. For example, summer can be very hot and crowded, while spring and autumn tend to be more pleasant. Winter can be chilly, but it is also a less busy time for tourists. Personally, I find the end of October through to the start of November to be a good sweet spot; striking a balance between pleasant weather and a lower numbers of visitors outside of peak season.
• Your travel style : Think about your preferred pace of travel and whether you prefer a more relaxed or jam-packed vacation. If you enjoy leisurely exploring a destination at your own pace, you may want to allow more time for your trip or accept that you might not get to see everything you want to see while also having time to soak up the atmosphere. If you prefer to pack as much as possible into a shorter trip, then you could probably consider a shorter length of stay.

Limited vs unlimited time to spend

For those with limited time, consider focusing on the “must-sees” of Rome like the Colosseum , St. Peter’s Basilica and the Trevi Fountain. Make sure to visit some of the city’s most iconic restaurants and cafes to savour a gelato or enjoy a unique Italian espresso experience.

If you have time, I’d recommend that you extend your stay to explore some of Rome’s lesser-known neighbourhoods and attractions, like the Jewish Ghetto or Testaccio, both of which offer a more authentic Roman experience.

If your time isn’t limited, you can explore Rome to its fullest potential. Spend some time marvelling at the art of the Vatican Museums, take a stroll through the myriad of cobblestone streets, or take a day trip to the Italian countryside.

There is an endless amount of beauty and culture waiting to be discovered in Rome, so how long you decide to stay really depends on how much time you have available and how much exploration you want to do.

What is the least amount of time you should spend in Rome?

The least amount of time you should spend in Rome is three days, especially if it is your first time visiting. Ideally, if you are in a position to, then I would suggest a 4-day Rome itinerary for first-time visitors.

This would give you enough time to take in the main sites, do some shopping and get a taste of the city’s culture. If you have more than three days, this enables you to explore more hidden gems and experience authentic Roman cuisine through markets and food tours.

How much time in Rome is too much?

This ultimately depends on how much one wants to explore and experience in the city. For some, Rome can offer enough experiences for an entire month or two, while others might find that a week or two is plenty to take it all in.

It’s up to each individual how much time they want to spend exploring Rome – if it feels too overwhelming and exhausting though, then it’s probably time to take a break!

Weekend getaway (2-3 days):

If you only have a few days to spare, Rome is still an excellent destination for a short trip. In two or three days, you can see many of the city’s most famous landmarks, such as the Colosseum, the Pantheon, and the Trevi Fountain.

You can also enjoy some of Rome’s famous cuisine, such as pizza and gelato, and take a leisurely stroll through some of the city’s charming neighbourhoods.

First-time visitors (4-7 days):

If you are visiting Rome for the first time, it’s a good idea to allow at least 4-7 days to get a good sense of the city and see the major sights. This will give you enough time to visit the Colosseum, the Pantheon, the Trevi Fountain, and other iconic landmarks, as well as take a day trip to a place nearby that interests you.

You by no means have to spend a full 7 days in Rome to experience it as a first-time visitor, but I would recommend 4 days for you as a minimum.

Repeat visitors (2-3 days):

If you have already visited Rome and want to experience something new on your next trip, you may want to allow a shorter length of stay. For repeat visitors, a weekend getaway of 2-3 days may be sufficient to see something new and revisit some of your favourite spots.

Alternatively, you can choose to focus on a specific aspect of Rome, such as its food or outdoor adventures, and plan your trip accordingly.

Cultural immersion (4-7 days):

If you are interested in delving deeper into Rome’s rich history and culture, consider spending four to seven days in the city.

This will give you enough time to visit some of the city’s lesser-known attractions, such as the Catacombs or the Appian Way, as well as take a day trip to nearby destinations such as Pompeii, Tivoli, or even Florence and Tuscany.

Foodies (4-7 days):

Rome is known for its delicious cuisine, and there is no shortage of excellent restaurants and trattorias to explore.

If you are a foodie, consider allowing a few extra days in your itinerary to fully experience Rome’s culinary scene. You can visit local markets, take a cooking class, or join a food tour to try a variety of local specialities.

Shopaholics (3-7 days):

Rome is a great destination for those who love to shop, with a wide variety of stores, markets, and boutiques to explore. If you are a shopaholic, consider allowing a few extra days in your itinerary to fully experience Rome’s shopping scene.

You can visit the city’s famous shopping districts, such as Via del Corso or Via dei Condotti, or explore the local markets and boutiques in the city’s charming neighbourhoods. You could even head to some of the outlet stores outside of Rome to pick up discounted Italian designer brands.

Families with kids:

Rome is a great destination for families, with a variety of kid-friendly attractions and activities. If you are travelling with children, you may want to allow a little extra time in your itinerary to allow for some downtime and relaxation. If you’re a first-time visitor, Rome can be overwhelming.

Unless your children are used to visiting museums with you and spending a long time on their feet exploring, then consider planning your trip around your children’s interests and energy levels, and be sure to build in some breaks and rest periods throughout the day.

Outdoor adventure (5-7 days):

Surrounded by stunning landscapes, the area outside Rome offers countless possibilities for adventurers to discover and appreciate.

Consider spending five to seven days in Rome to allow time for activities such as hiking in the Roman Hills or mountain biking in the Apennine Mountains as well as sightseeing in the historical centre of Rome.

You can also take a day trip to nearby destinations, such as the beach or the mountains, to enjoy even more outdoor activities.

Relaxation and sightseeing (7-10 days):

If you want a more relaxed vacation that allows you to take in the sights and sounds of Rome at a leisurely pace, consider spending seven to ten days in the city.

This will give you plenty of time to visit all of the major attractions, as well as take some time to relax and to seek out some of the city’s more laid-back aspects, which will allow you to experience Rome more ‘like a local’.

To help make your planning easier, this section will discuss how much time is needed for each of Rome’s must-visit and most-visited attractions.

Once you have an idea of how long it will take to visit each of these, you can start adding more time to your Rome travel plans for other activities and sights, depending on your interests, which should help in deciding how many days should you spend in Rome altogether. 

How many days in Rome is enough to visit major attractions

When it comes to sightseeing specifically , we would recommend a minimum of three days to take in the highlights of Rome. This allows you to see iconic landmarks like the Colosseum, the Roman Forum and Trevi Fountain as well as enjoy some leisurely strolls through areas like Piazza Navona or Campo dei Fiori.

Below, are some guidelines in respect of the specific time needed to visit some of Rome’s most iconic sights, whether you want to do a deep-dive, or catch the main highlights.

Colosseum & Roman Forum

Recommended time: 3 hours to a half day or more

If you are an ancient history enthusiast and want to fully explore both the Colosseum and Roman Forum, you may want to allow half a day or more for your visit. This will give you enough time to take a guided tour, learn about the history of these two sites, and take your time exploring the ruins.

For those of you who are pressed for time, but still want to be able to enjoy the best that these two attractions have to offer, a few hours should suffice. While you won’t get to examine everything in detail, you’ll still get a glimpse of all the highlights (and this may even be enough time for the average visitor to spend).

I’d highly recommend booking a skip-the-line ticket  in advance. The Colosseum and Roman Forum are notoriously busy attractions and come with long lines. Spare yourself the ordeal of queuing and make sure to have bought your ticket online before visiting.

RESOURCES FOR VISITING THE COLOSSEUM & ROMAN FORUM

• Book skip the line tickets if visiting independently
• Guided tour recommended for deep dive
• Visit the Colosseum at night for a unique experience
• In a hurry? Book an express Colosseum tour

The Vatican City

Recommended time: half a day – one full day

If you want to see all of the major landmarks and attractions in the Vatican City, you may want to allow a full day for your visit – there is simply so much to discover, particularly if you are an art and/or history buff.

A full day will give you enough time to take a guided tour, visit the Vatican Museums and the Sistine Chapel, and explore St. Peter’s Basilica at your leisure, as well as give you time to have a leisurely lunch somewhere nearby in between.

If you are more interested in just seeing the highlights and don’t want to spend too much time at the Vatican City, then you should be able to visit the main attractions in a few hours.

If you haven’t visited the Vatican museums before, then I would strongly suggest that you book yourself a guided tour. I took the TakeWalks Pristine Sistine tour , which I can’t recommend more highly.

Nonetheless, even if you decide not to take a tour, then I’d still encourage you to book your skip-the-line tickets  well in advance. You can also consider visiting early in the morning or later in the evening to avoid the busiest times of the day.

RESOURCES FOR VISITING THE VATICAN

• I highly recommend this VIP early-morning Vatican tour
• Find last minute skip the line tickets here

Centro Storico

To properly see Rome’s Centro Storico, you’ll need at least a few hours. Visiting the area takes in landmarks like the Spanish Steps, Trevi Fountain, Piazza Navona and The Pantheon and it can easily take up a full day to properly explore these locations.

It’s best to start early in the morning to avoid crowds and plan how much time you want to spend at each site depending on how many days you have available. If possible, it is also worth considering visiting some of these sites during quieter times such as evenings or early mornings for fewer crowds.

BOOK A GUIDED TOUR | This guided tour will give you a good overview of Rome’s historical centre and its highlights. 

Borghese Gallery

Because a limited number of tickets are sold each day, the Borghese Gallery imposes a time limit of 2 hours for each visit.

To get the most out of your visit, it is best to purchase tickets well in advance , as they sell out in days before. I purchased mine through Tiqets, which was extremely straightforward. Guided tours are also available for those who would like some extra insight into the artwork and history of the gallery.

After you visit the gallery, you may wish to allocate some further time to explore the gardens and parkland that surround the villa. For this, you could easily spend an hour or more wandering the paths or rowing peacefully in a hired boat around the serene lake in the park.

BOOK TICKETS OR A TOUR | It’s essential to book tickets well in advance – do so here . For a deeper understanding of the pieces you will see, I would recommend booking a guided tour – this one is very well reviewed. . 

The below, while by no means comprehensive, have been included to give you an idea as to what you could realistically fit in during various timeframes in Rome.

1 day in Rome itinerary

• Morning : Explore the Centro Storico
• Afternoon : Visit the Colosseum and Roman Forum, or spend half a day exploring the Vatican City.

TOP TIP | Consider booking a full-day tour if you have just one day to spend in Rome. I’d recommend this TakeWalks tour to that end.

2 days in Rome itinerary

• Day 1 : Centro Storico and the Roman Forum, Colosseum and Palatine Hill
• Day 2 : The Vatican City, Trastevere and Aventine Hill

3 days in Rome itinerary

• Day 1 : Centro Storico, Piazza Venezia and Campo de’Fiori
• Day 2 : Colosseum and Roman Forum, Palatine Hill and Capitoline Hill & Museum
• Day 3 : The Vatican City

4 days in Rome itinerary

• Day 3 : Colosseum and Roman Forum, Palatine Hill and Capitoline Museum
• Day 4 : Borghese Gallery, shopping and a food tour

RELATED READING | The Perfect 4-Day Rome Itinerary – Food, Culture & A Little Luxury

5 days in Rome itinerary

• Day 1: Centro Storico, Piazza Venezia and Campo de’Fiori
• Day 4 : Day trip to Tivoli to see Hadrian’s Villa and Villa d’Este
• Day 5 : Borghese Gallery, shopping and a food tour

1 week in Rome itinerary

• Day 2: Colosseum and Roman Forum, Palatine Hill and Capitoline Museum
• Day 3 : Day trip to Tuscany
• Day 4 : The Vatican City, Trastevere and Aventine Hill
• Day 5 : The Catacombs and cycle part of the Appian Way
• Day 6 : Take a day trip to Naples or Pompeii
• Day 7: Borghese Gallery, take a food tour or a cooking class

1. Research how many days you need in Rome to make the most out of your trip

The Eternal City offers so much to explore and experience; it would be a shame to rush through the sights and miss out on its timeless beauty. Make sure you plan how many days you need in Rome to cover everything or at least the most important places that are high up on your list.

2. Separate each day into themes or locations and plan accordingly

Rather than trying to cram as many sights as possible into one day, try devoting each day to a specific theme (e.g., Ancient Rome, churches, shopping) or a particular location (The Vatican, Colosseum & Forum etc). This way you can have a more focused experience that allows time for exploration of the area.

3. Make a list of must-see sights and plan how much time you will spend at each one

Rome’s top attractions can get incredibly crowded, so it’s best to make a list of must-see sights and how much time you plan to spend at each one.

You should also research when these places are open and how long the entry lines typically are. Where you can, buy skip-the-line tickets and make sure to purchase tickets to popular sites well in advance.

4. Invest in a Roma Pass

If you plan on doing a lot of sightseeing, consider investing in the Roma Pass . This will give you access to museums and archaeological sites, as well as discounted tickets for some attractions.

The Roma Pass is an economical and convenient way to get around Rome as it covers public transport (bus, metro, tram) and provides free entry to two museums or archaeological sites. This helps you save time in the long run so you can fit more sights into your itinerary.

5. Wear comfortable shoes

Rome may be an ancient city but it’s also one of the most beautiful cities in the world. You will be doing a lot of walking, so make sure to wear comfortable shoes that are perfect for exploring cobbled streets and long walks around attractions. My tried and tested favourites are from the Swiss brand, ON Running.

I swear by my Roger Federer tennis shoes , which have stood me well on city breaks, in terms of both comfort and style.

Another top tip is to have a second pair of comfortable shoes with you on city breaks where you plan on doing lots of walking (like Rome), that you can wear on alternate days – sometimes, your feet just need a break from the shoes you’ve been wearing.

6. Leave time to just wander

It is not all about ticking off tourist sites in Rome; there is plenty of beauty to be found in the city’s meandering side streets too. Make sure you leave some time to just wander, getting lost in its many alleyways and marvelling at the unique charm of each area.

7. Embrace la dolce vita

Be sure to experience how Romans do life in their own unique way – la dolce vita (the sweet life). Take time out from sightseeing to relax at a café or people-watch in one of the city’s piazzas, and soak up the atmosphere.

8. Invest in doing at least one tour

If you can, I would highly suggest that you take a tour or some form of experience while you’re in the Eternal City.

From food and wine tastings to art walks and guided visits to Vatican City, there are plenty of options available that will help you understand the city from the point of view that interests and appeals to you the most.

I highly recommend TakeWalks tours  for this, who are Rome and Italy specialists. I’ve taken a number of their tours in Rome, which I thoroughly enjoyed.

8. Find accommodation that is close to attractions

Rome is known for its narrow winding streets, so you will want to make sure that your accommodation isn’t too far away from the attractions. Staying close to the action will also give you more time to explore and discover hidden gems in the city.

9. Pack light so that you can move around easily

If you’re planning on carrying your luggage around the city, make sure it isn’t too heavy. Pack only what is necessary and consider using wheeled luggage instead of a backpack, so that it will be easier to move around with.

10. Try local food and explore different neighbourhoods for unique experiences

Rome is a foodie’s paradise, so make sure to try as much local food and wine as you can. You will also want to explore the different neighbourhoods for unique experiences – from Trastevere’s hipster bars to the hidden gems in Monti or the chic shopping streets of Campo de’ Fiori.

For those seeking to prolong their stay in the everlasting City of Rome, there are numerous ways to make certain that every second is packed with remarkable memories.

For those who enjoy the finer things in life, luxury hotels and spas offer guests the chance to relax and indulge in some pampering, while the city’s culinary scene is rich with a variety of traditional dishes as well as more modern offerings – you could easily tack on a few extra days to experience Rome’s cuisine alone.

For lovers of culture, there are plenty of art galleries, museums and music venues to explore outside of the obvious. And for the more active among us, the area outside of Rome offers abundant opportunities for outdoor activities such as cycling, hiking and rock climbing.

Some specific ideas for extending your time in Rome I have provided below; starting first with popular day trips from Rome, followed by ways to extend your time in the city of Rome specifically, by visiting some lesser-known gems.

Taking a day trip from Rome

Taking a day trip from Rome is an excellent way to explore the city’s surrounding areas and discover some of Italy’s most beautiful scenery. Here are some of the most straightforward and popular to take.

Tivoli is a small town located just a short train ride from Rome, and it is known for its rich history and beautiful natural surroundings. Some of the top things to see in Tivoli include:

• Villa d’Este – This 16th-century villa enjoys UNESCO status and is renowned for its beautiful gardens and fountains.
• Hadrian’s Villa – This is a vast complex of ancient Roman ruins, built by Emperor Hadrian as his summer residence.
• Villa Gregoriana – a park located in the heart of Tivoli, it offers a beautiful view of the Aniene valley. The park is perfect for nature lovers, featuring naturalistic paths and waterfalls.
• The town of Tivoli itself – Tivoli has a charming historical center with picturesque streets, beautiful churches, and charming piazzas where you can enjoy a coffee or gelato.

BOOK A DAY TRIP TO TIVOLI | Take this guided tour if you wish to leave the hassle of logistics to someone else. 

Another great day trip from Rome is Florence , the capital of Tuscany. Here you can explore its Renaissance art, beautiful churches and palaces, and delicious Italian food. Some highlights include:

• The Uffizi Gallery – This former palace is home to one of the world’s most important collections of renaissance artwork.
• The Duomo – This grand cathedral is an iconic symbol of Florence and a must-see for any visitor.
• Ponte Vecchio – This famous bridge was built in the 13th century and is full of shops selling jewellery, souvenirs, and more.
• Florence’s food scene – For those who enjoy Italian cuisine, Florence offers an array of options that you won’t get in Rome, as Tuscan cuisine is quite a separate entity to the Roman variety.

BOOK A DAY TRIP TO FLORENCE | This guided tour  also includes a day trip to Pisa as well as Florence, making it a day well spent. 

Wine Tour to Tuscany from Rome

Located just over an hour’s drive from the city, the awe-inspiring region of Tuscany is home to some of the best vineyards in Italy, producing wines that have been enjoyed by generations.

You can take a guided tour of the vineyards, sample some of the region’s finest wines and delight in its breathtaking scenery, as well as take in some of Tuscany’s delightful hilltop towns throughout the day.

BOOK A DAY TRIP TO TUSCANY | Explore some of beautiful Tuscany and dine and drink wine in the undulating countryside on this extremely well-reviewed guided tour . 

If you’re considering a day trip from Rome to Naples , the Frecciarossa high-speed train takes only 1 hour and 15 minutes to get there. As the largest city in southern Italy, you can find many interesting places and things to do here such as:

• The National Archaeological Museum – Here you can explore some of the most famous archaeological discoveries in Italy, including a whole horde of artefacts excavated from Pompeii and Herculaneum.
• The Royal Palace – This beautiful baroque palace was built for King Charles III of Bourbon in the 18th century.
• The historic centre – Naples boasts one of the world’s largest and oldest historical centers, known for its narrow winding streets, iconic sights such as San Gennaro Cathedral and Castel Nuovo, and plenty of delicious Italian restaurants.
• Naples Underground – This is a unique experience as it takes you under the city to discover secret tunnels and WWII shelters.

BOOK A DAY TRIP TO NAPLES | Research train schedules and book your tickets on this useful website.

A World Heritage Site that offers visitors an astonishing insight into Ancient Roman life, with its cobbled streets and fascinating ruins, a visit to Pompeii should make it onto the itinerary of any history buff who is seeking to extend their time in Rome.

Pompeii is easily reached by train via Naples, or you can also opt to take a day trip from Rome via a guided tour that will take care of all logistics for you.

BOOK A DAY TRIP TO POMPEII | Run by the fabulous TakeWalks, this excellent guided tour to Pompeii also takes in a a little of the Amalfi Coast. 

Extend your time in Rome itself, visiting some lesser-known gems

For those looking to add some extra days to their stay in Rome itself, there are plenty of ways to experience the city that go beyond classic sightseeing spots.

Visit hidden churches and palazzos tucked away across the city’s neighbourhoods; explore Rome’s quirky and vibrant markets or go on a food-tasting journey via a food tour or cooking class.

If you’re looking for a more authentic, off-the-beaten-path experience, there are plenty of lesser-known gems to discover in this ancient city.

Below are some ideas to help guide you.

Get better acquainted with Roman cuisine

One of the best places to start is the Mercato Centrale , a bustling indoor food market where you can sample the local cuisine and pick up some delicious ingredients to take home.

A food tour or cooking class is a great way to experience the culinary culture of Rome and learn more about its local cuisine.

Food tours usually involve a knowledgeable guide who takes you through several restaurants or cafes, introducing you to traditional dishes and snacks, as well as providing some insight into their history and the unique ingredients used.

On a cooking class, you can learn to make your own classic Italian dishes like pizza, pasta and tiramisu.

BOOK A FOODIE EXPERIENCE | Discover more about typical Roman food on this sunset food tour around the Prati district, or if you’d like to pick up some more hands-on experience with Italian food, then this top-notch pasta making class is a must. 

Visit the catacombs

The catacombs of Rome are one of the city’s most mysterious and fascinating attractions. This underground network of tunnels houses some astonishing archaeological treasures, including paintings, sculptures and frescoes.

There are several different sets of catacombs to explore, each with their own unique history and atmosphere.

BOOK YOUR CATACOMBS EXPERIENCE | Take a VIP guided tour of Rome’s Catacombs in the evening. 

Explore Rome’s hidden churches and palazzos

Rome is a city of beautiful churches, palazzos and hidden gems tucked away across its neighbourhoods. Spend a day wandering the streets, discovering small churches and chapels, or take a tour of one of the grand palazzos that line the banks of the Tiber River.

One of particular note is the Villa Farnesina, a 16th-century palace with a stunning frescoed interior and an exquisite art collection.

Enjoy the Roman nightlife

When the sun goes down, Rome comes alive with its lively nightlife scene. Take a stroll along the streets of Trastevere or head to Campo de’ Fiori for some of the best bars and restaurants in the city.

From jazz clubs to rooftop bars, craft beer pubs and cocktail lounges, you’ll be sure to find a spot that suits your style.

RELATED READING | Read this post to discover the best things to do in Rome at night.

Visit lesser-known galleries and museums

The Baths of Diocletian and the Crypta Balbi are also great options for those looking to learn more about the city’s rich Roman history.

If you haven’t made it as part of your visit to the Roman Forum, then I’d also recommend dropping into the Capitoline Museums, which are the main civic museum of the city of Rome and include an impressive collection of treasures.

Art lovers will also find plenty to keep them busy in Rome. The Galleria Spada is a small but impressive art gallery located in a beautiful palace, and the Museo Nazionale Etrusco di Villa Giulia is a must-see for those interested in the ancient Etruscan civilization.

The gallery at Palazzo Doria Pamphilj is also well worth a visit, with its impressive collection of artworks and Renaissance frescoes.

Journey along the Appian Way

Active explorers could traverse (or complete part of) the iconic Appian Way on foot or by bike, which is one of Rome’s most historical and crucial roads.

Constructed in 312 BC by Roman censor Appius Claudius Caecus – also known as the ‘Father of Roads’ – this roadway gave Rome access to Brundisium and connected them with all corners of Italy.

BOOK AN APPIAN WAY EXPERIENCE | Cycle along the Appian Way on an e-bike, taking in catacombs and Roman aqueducts along the way on this bicycle tour .

There are few cities in the world quite as grand and majestic as Rome. The Eternal City is a timeless treasure, offering a wealth of cultural experiences and attractions that have captivated visitors for centuries.

From its iconic monuments to its vibrant nightlife, Rome has something for everyone. Whether you’re looking to explore its ancient history, enjoy its fine cuisine or just wander through its romantic cobblestone streets, there is no shortage of things to do and see in Rome. It truly is an experience like no other.

When planning how many days to spend in Rome, consider how much time you have and what type of activities appeal to you most . If possible, try to give yourself enough days for a complete exploration of the city’s numerous attractions.

A well-crafted Roman holiday will include some time spent sightseeing and exploring historical sites, as well as taking part in leisurely activities such as shopping, dining and café-hopping. While a one-day whirlwind tour of the city is possible, it won’t be enough to truly experience all that Rome has to offer.

For history buffs, two or three days can give you enough time to visit major sites and take side trips to smaller, lesser-known attractions. However, if you prefer to take your time and savour the atmosphere of Rome, 4 days to a week or more will allow you to fully immerse yourself in the culture.

If you’re looking for an experience that goes beyond just sightseeing, I would highly suggest that you sign up for a guided tour. There are plenty of cultural activities to choose from such as wine-tasting, cooking classes, and even tours of the underground Catacombs.

Ultimately, how many days you need in Rome depends on how much time you have and what type of experience you’re looking for .

With its mix of historic monuments, art galleries, churches and gardens, Rome should be savoured and enjoyed at a leisurely pace. So why not give yourself the gift of time and plan for enough days to experience all that this beautiful city has to offer?

By taking into consideration how much time you have, what type of activities appeal to you, and what kind of experience you’re looking for, you can craft the perfect Roman vacation.

With careful consideration and planning, you can make sure your stay is as enjoyable and memorable as possible. So how many days should you spend in Rome? The answer is up to you – just don’t forget to savour every moment!

Related reading for visiting Rome

• 4 day Rome itinerary |  The Perfect 4-Day Rome Itinerary – Food, Culture & A Little Luxury
• Rome at night |  19 Things To Do At Night In Rome, From Culture To Cocktails
• Visiting the Colosseum at night |  Is A Colosseum By Night Tour Worth It? An Honest & Comprehensive Review
• Best colosseum underground tours | 9 Best Colosseum Underground Tours – Dive into Gladiatorial Rome
• Colosseum by night tours | Best Colosseum by Night Tours: 9 Top Picks for 2024
• Best Colosseum tours | 10 Best Colosseum Tours [2024] + Insider Tips to Choose Correctly
• Rome, Naples, Amalfi Coast itinerary |  A Rome, Naples, Amalfi Coast Itinerary for Culture, Food & Scenery
• Florence, Rome, Amalfi Coast itinerary |  A Sophisticated Florence, Rome & Amalfi Coast Itinerary
• How many days do you need in Rome | How Long to Stay in Rome? Insider’s Advice on the Perfect Trip Length

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Hi there! I'm Isabelle, aficionado of immersive travel experiences and unique, luxurious hotels. You'll most likely find me camera in hand, or nerding out on research in advance of my next trip. A major foodie, history and scenery lover, nothing makes me happier than soaking in the atmosphere and culture of the destination I'm visiting.

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Book Guided Tours in Rome Expert Guides & Immersive Tours

Select Your Experience

Best of Rome: Walking Tour with Spanish Steps, Trevi Fountain & Pantheon

• You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
• Visit Rome's most iconic sights on a guided walking tour through its bustling historic center.
• With an expert tour guide by your side, giving you the lowdown on Rome's history, you'll become well-accustomed to Italy's capital.
• Upgrade to get a 3-hour, in-depth tour of the squares and fountains of Rome, or control the size of your group with the small-group or private tour option.
• Throw a penny in for good luck at the Trevi Fountain and talk about Bernini's famous feud at the Piazza Navona.
• Learn how the Spanish Steps got their intriguing name and why Rome's streets are often referred to as an outdoor museum.
• Expert English-speaking tour guide
• Audio headsets where appropriate
• 2 or 2.5-hour walking tour (as per option selected)
• Large, small-group, or private tour (as per option selected)
• Tip: Your guide will take you through one of Rome’s romantic piazzas. Here, we recommend treating yourself to a traditional Italian gelato, coffee, or aperitivo.
• Please wear comfortable walking shoes.
• To enter the Pantheon and other churches, guests must wear clothes that cover their knees, shoulders, and backs.

Guided Walking Tour of Rome at Dusk or Night

• Enjoy the Eternal City colored by the magical hues of the setting sun or night lights on this guided English or Spanish small group tour.
• Walk along the streets of the characteristic area of the Jewish Ghetto and experience an ethereal Roman atmosphere.
• Make a wish as you throw a coin over your right shoulder straight into the Trevi Fountain.
• Make your way towards Piazza di Spagna and walk up the famous stairway, the Spanish Steps as you soak in the breathtaking views.
• Indulge in a scoop of authentic gelato after your gratifying tour.
• 1.5-hour guided tour
• Expert English or Spanish-speaking guide
• Gelato ice cream
• Hotel transfers
• Audio guide

This ticket has the following options that you can choose from:

• English-Guided Tour
• Spanish-Guided Tour
• Small Group Tour

######Need to know

• Tip: Wear comfortable shoes and dress casually to gain the most out of this experience. Don't forget to snap several insta-worthy pictures at each spot.
• This tour is not wheelchair or pram/stroller accessible.
• This tour is not recommended for those with back problems or foot injuries.
• Service animals are allowed.

Walking Tour of Rome's Jewish Ghetto

• See a whole other side of Rome when you walk through its Jewish Ghetto, a former prison quarter, and catch glimpses of its history.
• Follow an expert local guide who will fill you in on stories and fascinating facts about all that you see, choose to explore with a small group or on a private tour.
• Visit the Teatro Marcello, nicknamed the "Small Colosseum," and see the Jewish Synagogue.
• Admire the views from the Portico d’Ottavia and check out the restaurants at Via del Portico d' Ottavia.
• Walk past the Turtle Fountain, and the Piazza delle Cinque Scole, named after the presence of five religious buildings.
• Expert English, Italian, or Spanish-speaking guide
• Small group or private tour (as per option selected)
• Gelato or coffee (optional)
• Transportation
• Tips and gratuities

This ticket has the following options you can choose from:

• Italian Walking Tour
• Spanish Walking Tour
• Small Group English Walking Tour
• Private English Walking Tour

Roman Empire Guided Walking Tour

• Cover the 1000-year history of ancient Rome on this 2.5-hour guided walking tour and forget the hassle of planning with a comprehensive itinerary.
• Standing amidst the historic ruins, arches, and churches of the Roman Forum, learn how trade evolved here, and get a peek into life as it was 2000 years ago.
• See relics like the 4th-century model basilica that inspired many Christian cathedrals and the only remaining bronze equestrian statue of ancient Rome.
• Soak in the genius of Michelangelo at Capitol Hill, where he transformed an irregular shape into a harmonious square using geometry and illusion.
• Learn about the bloody past of the Colosseum, and learn about Rome in the language of your preference with English or Spanish-speaking guides.
• 2.5-hour walking tour of ancient Rome landmarks
• English or Spanish-speaking local guide (based on option selected)
• Entry to the Colosseum
• Teatro Marcello
• Capitoline Hill and Cordonata
• Piazza del Campidoglio
• Roman Forum and Palatine Hill
• Monument to Vittorio Emanuele II
• Via dei Fori Imperiali
• Forum of Julius Caesar
• Basilica of Maxentius
• Arch of Constantine
• Tip: Walk to the back of the Piazza del Campidoglio to enjoy an uninterrupted view of ancient Rome.

Trevi Fountain & Piazza Navona Guided Walking Tour

• Get to grips with Rome, its art, history, and more with the help of your expert English-speaking guide on this tour.
• Take a relaxing stroll down the city center of Rome and visit the Spanish Steps, Piazza Navona, Trevi Fountain, and the Pantheon.
• Reap the benefits of having a group of no more than 25 people, as well as an express entrance to the Pantheon.
• Enjoy a coffee or gelato break during the tour, complimentary with these tickets.
• Expert, English-speaking guide
• Groups no larger than 25 people
• A gelato in summer / a hot chocolate or cappuccino in winter
• Audio headsets so you can always hear your guide
• Tip: Don't forget to toss your coin when at the Trevi Fountain and make your wishes come true!

Guided Walking Tour of Rome's Ghosts and Mysteries

• Steeped in legends and mysteries, Rome, the Eternal City, is known for its lurking heroes and restless souls that wander through the city.
• Your tour will set out to explore tales of mystery and conspiracies, betrayals, murders, and beheadings, starting with Castel Sant'Angelo.
• This was once a prison notorious for housing nobles, artists, and common thugs alike.
• Walk past Via del Governo Vecchio to reach Piazza Pasquino, where, your guide will point out the statue of an ancient Greek hero.
• At Piazza Navona, listen to stories about the restless souls that hover around the Pantheon.
• When you reach Piazza della Minerva, see Bernini's obelisk of the Minerva, which rests on the back of a small elephant.
• See also Largo di Torre Argentina, where Julius Caesar was assassinated.
• End your tour at Piazza Mattei, which is named after the Palace of Giacomo Mattei, which overlooks it.
• Expert English, French, German, Italian, or Spanish-speaking guide
• Small-group tour (max. 15 participants)
• Anti-COVID health measures applied at all times
• Italian-Guided Tour
• French-Guided Tour
• German-Guided Tour

Rome Walking Tour

• Admire the Eternal City either in the morning from 10am onwards or as it is basking in the golden rays of the evening Sun at 5:30pm.
• Listen to the history and intriguing tales of Rome's past from an expert and interactive English-speaking local guide.
• This tour will let you in on one of Rome's best-kept secrets - Galleria Sciarra. The opulent 19th-century courtyard stands out with its many-hued Art Nouveau frescoes.
• Just a few steps from the Galleria is the famous Trevi Fountain, truly a sight to behold in the glory of the evening light.
• Next, you will see the beautiful Baroque church Chiesa di Sant'Ignazio di Loyola, and the iconic Pantheon, the best-preserved relic of Ancient Rome.
• The tour concludes at the lively square of Piazza Navona, where you will find 3 gorgeous fountains and Sant'Agnese in Agone, a 17th-century Baroque church.
• 2.5-hr tour of Rome
• Expert English-speaking guide
• Tip: Piazza Navona has plenty of dining options to satiate your appetite after your pleasant excursion (not included in the ticket).
• This tour/activity accommodates a maximum of 15 participants.
• This tour is not wheelchair accessible.
• This tour is stroller accessible.

Rome Guided Tour with Colosseum & Vatican Museums Access

• Explore the historic riches of Rome in the most stress-free way possible by visiting the city’s most amazing attractions with a highly experienced English-speaking guide.
• Save precious time to access to some of the city’s most-visited sites like the Vatican Museums, the Sistine Chapel, and the Colosseum.
• Make your visit to St. Peter's Basilica, Roman Forum, Colosseum, Piazza Navona, Pantheon, and the Trevi Fountain more enriching with the expertise of a tour guide.
• Full-day guided tour of Rome
• Access to Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel
• Access to St. Peter's Church
• Access to the Colosseum floors 1 and 2
• Access to Palatine Hill & Roman Forum
• Visit to Piazza Navona, Pantheon, Trevi Fountain
• Transfers between the city center and Vatican

Vatican Galleries | Sistine Chapel | St Peter’s Basilica | Piazza Navona | Pantheon (exterior) | Trevi Fountain | Colosseum tour | Roman Forum

• Tip: Carry a few spare coins with you to throw in the Trevi Fountain as it is a popular tourist activity.
• Strict Dress Code : Knees and shoulders must be covered for both men and women.
• These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.

Borghese Gallery Skip-the-Line Small-Group Guided Tour

• Bypass ticketing queues and get more time to explore one of Rome's most prestigious art galleries, Borghese Gallery, on a guided tour.
• Start this English-guided tour to learn fascinating facts about masterpieces by artists such as Bernini, Caravaggio, Raphael, and Titian.
• With personal attention on this small-group guided tour, accommodating only 10 people, gain deeper insight into the collections at the museum.
• Admire Bernini’s legendary sculpture of 'Apollo and Daphne' and feel the energy of "David," which tells tales of passion, mythology, and creativity.
• Stroll through the lush landscapes of the Villa Borghese gardens, see its fountains, and enjoy your view of Rome.
• Priority access to the Borghese Gallery
• 2-hr small-group tour
• Visit to the Villa Borghese Gardens
• English, Italian, Spanish, and French-speaking guide (as per option selected)
• Tip: Don't forget to explore the thematic Giardino Segreto (Secret Garden) while at the Borghese Gardens.
• Bring along a pair of comfortable shoes.
• This experience is accessible by prams/strollers.
• A paying adult must accompany minors under 18 years of age.
• This experience is not accessible by wheelchair.
• Large backpacks and bags must be checked in.
• This tour does not operate on Mondays.

Guided Tour of Catacombs of Domitilla with Entry Ticket

• Discover Rome's Domitilla Catacombs, renowned for early Christian frescoes and tombs, on a 17-km underground tour with an expert guide.
• Learn the story behind Rome's partially underground basilica – it goes 30 meters down – honoring martyrs such as Nereus and Achilleus.
• Don't miss the intricately adorned chapels called cubicula showcasing Biblical frescoes, inscriptions, and burial niches.
• Explore how discoveries from the catacombs have sparked discussions on women's roles in the Church, and choose a tour language that suits your preference.
• 30-min guided tour of Catacombs of Domitilla
• English/Italian/Spanish/German-speaking guide
• Entry to Catacombs of Domitilla
• Tip: Keep an eye out for hidden passages or niches, as some may contain intriguing inscriptions or remnants of ancient ceremonies.
• The experience is not accessible for wheelchair users or people with mobility issues.
• Note that the following are not allowed on this tour: photography and smoking.

Why This Unique Tour In Rome Was My Favorite Way To Explore The City

R ome has a rich history and vibrant culture that can transport you to a different era. Long before I ever visited Rome, what I knew of the ancient city came from the movies. I’m a classic movie buff, and Roman Holiday , the 1953 romantic comedy, is my favorite film.

The story unfolds as Princess Ann, who, during a visit to Rome, escapes her guardians to explore the city. Enter a handsome newspaper reporter who whisks her away on the back of his Vespa. I’ll never forget the images of iconic landmarks in the eternal city whizzing by as the movie unfolds.

On a recent visit, I found that exploring Rome by Vespa Sidecar Tour can make you feel like you’re living a similar fantasy. 

My private Vespa Sidecar Tour was provided by Anantara Palazzo Naiadi as part of a hosted stay at the beautiful hotel. As always, all opinions are my own.

The Vespa Sidecar Tour 

The Vespa Sidecar tour offers a unique way to discover the city’s famous landmarks, hidden gems, and picturesque squares. As you motor through the bustling city, you can imagine yourself as Audrey Hepburn’s character, Princess Ann, embarking on her own Roman adventure. 

The company’s owner, Luca Di Trapano, explained that the Vespa Sidecar Tour was born in a flash of inspiration after 2 decades of giving tours in Rome. He thought the concept was genius but later learned his idea was 45 years too late.

The makers of the Vespa stopped producing the model equipped with a sidecar in 1968. Not easily deterred, he persevered and brought his dream to reality. Since 2018, Luca has welcomed over 20,000 passengers on board without a single accident. He told me, “It is like having sailed through the streets of Rome with four or five gigantic cruise ships!”

The tours are 3 hours, depending on traffic. The price is 110 euros per person (about $117) on the small group tour (12 guests max). You can take the tour solo as I did or with a companion or group. Trade places halfway through for a new perspective. A private tour’s price depends on the number of guests.

Here are several reasons why you should explore Rome on this unique Vespa tour.

Easy Meeting Point

Piazza della Repubblica is the tour meeting point. The square is well-connected and easy for drop-offs by taxis and vehicles. Take the subway Line A to the Repubblica-Teatro dell’Opera stop. It’s just a 2-minute walk from the Central Termini Railway Station.

Pro Tip: If you want somewhere to stay close by, I recommend Anantara Palazzo Naiadi Rome Hotel . A restored 19th-century, crescent-shaped palazzo, it fronts Piazza della Repubblica, where the Vespa tour starts. At the assigned time, I met my guide, Alessio, at the concierge desk. My chariot, i.e. baby blue Vespa, was waiting just outside.

The Iconic Landmarks Of Rome

Exploring the highlights of the Eternal City, we visited 12 sights, including the Spanish Steps, Piazza del Popolo, and the Borghese Gardens. There were several opportunities to stop, stretch our legs, and linger, including the Trevi Fountain and the Pantheon.

It’s A Blast!

When exploring the beautiful city of Rome, I loved all the astonished looks on people’s faces as we made our way down tight alleys and broad avenues. I felt like a movie star — everyone was smiling, waving, and snapping our photo. We must have been quite a sight; something special to share with family members when you get home.

Avoid The Crowds

What’s the best way to avoid crowds and see a different side of Rome? See it on a Vespa! If you’re fearless, you could rent one yourself. But my advice? Enlist a pro. You will feel much safer riding next to or behind someone who understands the ins and outs of Rome’s streets, where locals think traffic lanes are merely suggestions.

It’s A Beautiful Ride

The Vespa is a classic: These stunning coupes from Italy are iconic on the streets of Rome. Piaggio & Co. started making the Vespa after WWII as cheap, affordable transportation. Eventually, in 1953, the hit movie Roman Holiday showed the world how great a Vespa could be, resulting in record sales. Like the Colosseum, the Italian scooter has remained a part of Italy’s landscape. You will feel like an authentic Italian in the sidecar of a Vespa.

Unique And Unforgettable Way To See The Eternal City 

Unlike larger vehicles, a Vespa can easily maneuver through tight spaces, allowing you to see more of the city’s hidden gems and local hotspots. As you zip through the streets, you’ll experience the city in an exciting and unique way. Your guide will share his knowledge of the city’s history and culture, providing insights into the backstories of the pivotal figures in the Roman Empire.

A Driver And Official Guide Rolled Into One

My driver, Alessio, wasn’t just a history buff: He’s also an official guide, which means he’s been trained to lead tours and provide in-depth information on all the sites you’ll see. He knows how to keep you engaged, entertained, and informed, making your Vespa tour an unforgettable experience. Throughout the tour, he shared fascinating facts, historical anecdotes, and his favorite neighborhoods and restaurants. With his expertise and passion for sharing the city’s rich history, you’ll have a one-of-a-kind adventure that you’ll remember for years to come. 

Radio-Connected Modern Whispers

As we cruised along the streets of Rome, Alessio provided commentary directly into my ear through a modern whisper system. He pointed out the window overlooking St. Peter’s Square where the Pope makes his Sunday address. It was chilling to see the balcony above the Piazza Venezia, where Mussolini delivered his most famous speech, the declaration of war on France and Britain in 1940.

A Sense Of Freedom And Excitement

Take in Rome’s sights, sounds, and smells from the open-air Vespa sidecar. You can enjoy the warm breeze on your face, witness the daily life of Romans, and immerse yourself in the city’s timeless beauty. 

Pro Tip: Three hours is about the right amount of time to get a taste of Rome. I saw much more than I would in a walking tour, and it was a better experience than a hop-on, hop-off bus tour — we could go where large coaches could not.

I Felt Safe 

The guides are expert drivers and the top-class helmets have face shields and disposable head covers. The passenger wears a seatbelt with a shoulder harness. We traveled at the most 24 miles per hour; just the right pace. Once you are on board, your unease fades away as you sit back, hold on, and enjoy the thrill of exploring Rome on a Vespa.

The Hidden Gems Of Rome

Rome is one of the most beautiful places in Italy and a real bucket-list destination. But allow some time to visit the hidden gems many tourists miss. Janiculum Hill, called the “Eighth Hill of Rome,” is a beautiful, often overlooked area with the best views of Rome. It’s a bit of a climb on foot, but on a Vespa, sit back and enjoy the ride. Piazzale Garibaldi in the center has the Giuseppe Garibaldi Monument with a cannon that fires daily at noon. Don’t miss the 17th-century Aqua Paola Fountain.

Cappuccino And Cornetto 

After visiting the Pantheon, we stopped for a cappuccino and cornetto, the traditional Roman breakfast choice. Our baby blue Vespa was parked nearby and I enjoyed watching how much attention it got from passersby. On the afternoon tours, customers are offered gelato instead.

Unforgettable Experience 

This is the perfect gift for someone who has done everything and an unforgettable experience for curious travelers of all ages. You will carry home remarkable moments and fun memories. 

Would I recommend Vespa Sidecar Tour? Absolutely. If this had been my first time in Rome, it would have given me a good overview of the places I would like to return to for a deeper dive. I have been to Rome several times, but until now, I’ve never seen the eternal beauty of Rome from the seat of a Vespa sidecar. And the coin I tossed into the Trevi Fountain guarantees I’ll be back.

Related Reading: 

• 9 Ways To Avoid Looking Like A Tourist In Rome
• 7 Unexpected And Unforgettable Attractions You Need To See In Rome
• 7 Best Places To Indulge In Dolce Far Niente While Visiting Rome

This article originally appeared on TravelAwaits