10 BEST Things to do in Rome, Italy

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Looking for the best things to do in Rome? You’re in the right place!

There’s no shortage of incredible experiences in this iconic city—but with so much to see and do, it can be tough to know what’s actually worth your time. That’s where we come in!

We’ve done the hard work for you—stood in endless lines, wandered into a tourist trap or two, and endured more than one mediocre bowl of pasta—all to find the experiences that truly stand out.

Everything on this list is something we genuinely loved, and we’re pretty sure you will too. Let’s dive in!

What to Skip in Rome? Skip the “free” tours in Rome. After multiple visits, we’ve learned they often cost nearly the same as paid tours once you add the “recommended” €15-20 tip per person. Plus, paid tours provide professional guides with extensive training rather than volunteer students. The difference in experience is absolutely worth it!

1. Take a tour of Vatican City

• Duration: 2–3 hours
• Time: Multiple times available from 8 am–4:30 pm (not available Sunday)
• Highlights: Discover the Vatican and the Sistine Chapel with a guide and skip-the-line entrance tickets
• Inclusions: Priority access to the Vatican Museums, guided visit of St. Peter’s Basilica (depending on option selected), access to the Sistine Chapel, audio headsets, visitor guide
• Rating: 4.5 stars (check 36,000+ reviews here)
• Free cancellation: Yes
• Price: Check price here!

Vatican City isn’t just a must-see—it’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience that deserves to be done right. We’ve seen those infamous Vatican lines snaking for blocks (some tourists wait 3+ hours!), which is exactly why we booked this skip-the-line Vatican tour.

As soon as we arrived, we walked right in, bypassing even the so-called “fast-track” lines. Our guide, Cosimo, didn’t rush us through the highlights—he transformed the Vatican Museums from overwhelming art galleries into a captivating journey through history. And the personalized headsets meant we never missed a word that Cosimo said, even in the busiest rooms!

Standing beneath Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel ceiling was a moment we’ll never forget. The colors, the drama, the sheer scale of his achievement—it’s something photos simply can’t capture.

With over 25,000 five-star reviews, it’s clear we’re not the only ones who loved this tour. But because it’s so popular, spots fill up fast. We highly recommend booking ahead to lock in your spot (and the best price!).

Book this 5-star tour of the Vatican here to skip the lines and get FREE cancellation!

Related Read: If the Vatican tour above is sold out, don’t worry, there are some other great options. You can check out the 6 best Vatican tours here!

2. See the Colosseum and Roman Forum with an Expert Guide

• Duration: 3 hours
• Time: Multiple departure times from 8:30 am–3:30 pm
• Highlights: Explore the Colosseum, enter the arena through the Gladiators’ Gate, visit Palatine Hill and the Roman Forum
• Inclusions: English-speaking guide, Colosseum entrance ticket with arena access, access to Roman Forum SUPER Sites (3:30 pm option and does not include the arena floor)
• Rating: 4.7 stars (check 3,700+ reviews here)
• Free cancellation: Yes
• Price: Check price here! 

The Colosseum isn’t just Rome’s most iconic landmark—it’s a portal to the ancient world, where 50,000 Romans once roared during legendary gladiator battles. While just about everyone visits the Colosseum (when in Rome, right?), few get to experience it like we did.

This VIP guided Colosseum tour gave us goosebumps as we entered through the gladiator’s gate onto the arena floor—the same entrance used by warriors 2,000 years ago. Looking up at the massive amphitheater from this perspective was incredible. Most tours don’t include arena access, so this felt like a truly exclusive experience!

Our guide Diego’s storytelling brought ancient Rome roaring back to life. He revealed hidden details we would have missed on our own, from the sophisticated engineering of the arena floor to the political intrigue behind the games.

But the tour didn’t stop there! Next, we headed to the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill, where we explored the actual streets, temples, and palaces where Roman history unfolded. Believe me, the panoramic views across ancient Rome from Palatine Hill are worth the price of admission alone! This tour transformed what could have been a “check the box” tourist experience into one of our favorite travel memories—it’s no wonder it has over 3,000+ 5-star reviews!

Check availability and easily reserve your spot on this top-rated colosseum tour here!

Related Read: There are many Colosseum tours available, but not all are created equal. Have a look at the 5 best ones here!

3. Taste the local cuisine on a food tour

• Duration: 4 hours
• Time: Multiple times available from 11 am–6:30 pm
• Highlights: Embark on a food tour through Rome’s Trastevere neighborhood, enjoy skip-the-line access to iconic venues, sample classic Roman dishes and wines
• Inclusions: Local guide, tastings at six exclusive locations (Twilight Trastevere option), pasta meal among ancient Roman ruins (Dine in Ancient Rome option), beverages, food lovers’ guide
• Rating: 4.9 stars (check 3,300+ reviews here)
• Free cancellation: Yes
• Price: Check price here!

When in Rome, eat as the Romans eat—but how do you know which restaurants serve authentic dishes and which are just tourist traps? That’s where this phenomenal skip-the-line food tour comes in!

​​Our guide, Flavia, led us on a foodie adventure through the ultra-charming Trastevere neighborhood. She took us to some beloved local restaurants, including the legendary Da Enzo (a popular restaurant where tourists typically wait 2+ hours for a table), the city’s oldest wine cellar to try Julius Caesar’s favorite dish, and an amazing gelato parlor!

As we savored every bite, Flavia taught us how to spot authentic Italian cuisine, shared the fascinating history behind each dish, and made sure our glasses were never empty. The wine and prosecco flowed freely all evening, perfectly complementing the generous portions.

We chose the “Twilight Trastevere” option and loved it, but there’s also a “Dine in Ancient Rome” option for the same price, which includes a stop for pasta in the midst of some ancient ruins. With over 3,200 5-star reviews, you can rest assured that whatever option you choose, it’s going to be good! 

Taste amazing food by reserving your spot on this food tour here!

4. Go wine tasting in Tuscany

• Duration: 12 hours
• Time: 7:30 am
• Highlights: Visit Montepulciano, have lunch at a Tuscan farm, try local wines, explore Pienza
• Inclusions: English-speaking guide, 3-course lunch, wine tasting, transportation to/from Rome, Montalcino Castle visit & olive oil tasting (small group option)
• Rating: 4.7 stars (check 4,700+ reviews here)
• Free cancellation: Yes
• Price: Check price here!

Who would pass up the chance to go wine tasting in Tuscany? Not us, that’s for sure! If you feel the same, we suggest taking this day trip to Tuscany from Rome! 

Imagine exploring medieval villages and sipping world-class wine while gazing across rolling Tuscan hills. Luckily, this Tuscany day trip from Rome makes that dream easily accessible— without the hassles of car rentals, navigation, or designated drivers!

We kicked off our day with a visit to Montepulciano, a breathtaking hilltop town that Twilight movie fans might recognize. We explored its medieval streets, Renaissance architecture, and even the 16th-century wine cellars carved deep into the mountainside.

After soaking up some Tuscan history and culture, we enjoyed a 3-course lunch and wine tasting at a beautiful wine estate just outside town. It was absolutely dreamy, and we even got to try the full-bodied red wine that Montepulciano is famous for! 

After a leisurely lunch, we traveled to Pienza, a tiny Tuscan village and UNESCO World Heritage Site. We had some free time to explore the town and shop for some fantastic local cheese and wine to take back to Rome with us.

We loved everything about this tour, from the history and scenery to the food and wine, and of course, our fantastic guide, Heather. We aren’t alone in loving it either, as this tour has over 4,000 positive reviews!

Book a day trip to Tuscany here and you’ll be able to reserve now and pay later!

Related Read: For a step-by-step guide to seeing the best of Rome, check out our 3-day Rome itinerary!

5. Explore Rome’s crypts and catacombs

• Duration: 3.5 hours
• Time: Multiple times available from 9 am–5 pm
• Highlights: Skip the line access, explore the Catacombs with an expert guide, go inside the Capuchin Crypt
• Inclusions: Expert guide, entrance tickets to the Capuchin Crypt and Museum, the Rome Catacombs, and the Basilica of San Martino ai Monti (not in the after-hours option)
• Rating: 4.5 stars (check 4,400+ reviews here)
• Free cancellation: Yes
• Price: Check price here!

Beneath the bustling streets of modern Rome lies a hidden, mysterious world that few travelers get to experience: the ancient crypts and catacombs!

We chose this skip-the-line catacombs tour to venture into these shadowy realms with expert guidance—and we’re so glad we did. The entrances to these sites are located outside the city center, making them difficult to visit on your own, and the context provided by our guide transformed what we saw from merely interesting to absolutely fascinating.

Walking through the ancient Christian catacombs (used between the 2nd and 5th centuries) gave us a deeper understanding of early Roman religious life, from sacred traditions to stories of persecution. One of the most unforgettable stops was the Capuchin Crypt, where the bones of 4,000 monks are arranged in hauntingly beautiful patterns.

This tour made the entire experience smooth and stress-free. It’s no surprise it regularly sells out, so if you’re curious about the darker side of Rome’s past, we’d recommend booking in advance!

Book this tour before it sells out here!

6. Master the art of Italian cooking

• Duration: 3 hours
• Time: Multiple times available from 10:30 am–9:30 pm
• Highlights: Learn how to prepare pasta and tiramisù with hands-on instruction, feast on your dishes, perfect for cooks of all experience levels
• Inclusions: Instructor, all food and beverage tastings, small-group
• Rating: 4.9 stars (check 4,200+ reviews here)
• Free cancellation: Yes
• Price: Check price here!

Instead of heading to a touristy restaurant for lunch or dinner, why not take your meal to the next level and make it yourself with this fantastic Italian cooking class? After seeing the thousands of 5-star reviews, we just had to try it out for ourselves, and it was even better than we had hoped!

Chef Maria welcomed us like family into her kitchen, guiding us through creating handmade fettuccine and ravioli from scratch. Her techniques have been passed down through generations, and her warmth and humor made the experience as entertaining as it was educational.

As well as all of the mouth-watering pasta, we also got to make tiramisu for dessert. It’s one of those desserts that seems intimidating until someone shows you the proper technique—now we make it regularly at home!

After cooking, we enjoyed our creations, accompanied by perfectly paired wine and limoncello. The sense of accomplishment and the delicious meal made this one of our most satisfying travel experiences!

At just €79 per person, this cooking class delivers exceptional value. You’ll enjoy a multi-course meal with drinks, learn skills you’ll use forever, and create memories that will last long after you return home.

Book our favorite cooking class in Rome here!

7. Day trip to the Amalfi Coast and Pompeii 

• Duration: 13 hours
• Time: Multiple times available from 6:50 am–8:15 am
• Highlights: Full-day tour to Pompeii and Positano, priority entry to Pompeii, view the Amalfi Coast, explore Positano
• Inclusions: English/Spanish-speaking guide (depending on option selected), skip-the-line access for Pompeii, guided tour of Pompeii, round-trip transport from Rome, free time in Positano, hotel pick-up and drop-off within Rome (private tour option)
• Rating: 4.5 stars (check 4,700+ reviews here)
• Free cancellation: Yes
• Price: Check price here!

Combining two of Italy’s most bucket-list-worthy destinations into a single day trip from Rome seems almost too good to be true—but this extraordinary tour delivers exactly that!

Our journey began with skip-the-line entry to Pompeii, where our guide walked us down streets frozen in time since the Mount Vesuvius eruption in 79 AD. Seeing the preserved buildings, ancient artifacts, and haunting plaster casts of victims was deeply moving.

From there, the day only got better as we set off along the legendary Amalfi Coast—one of the most breathtaking drives in the world. The winding road hugs dramatic cliffs above the sparkling Mediterranean, with views that barely seem real.

We spent our afternoon in Positano and quickly fell in love. This postcard-perfect village, with its pastel buildings cascading toward the sea, was even more beautiful in person. Following our guide Laura’s recommendations, we found the perfect spot for lunch with breathtaking views and limoncello from lemons grown on the surrounding hillsides.

This tour made visiting both Pompeii and the Amalfi Coast in one day not only possible but also easy and fun. This combination would be next to impossible using public transportation in a single day (believe me, we looked into it!). So if you’re interested in visiting these Italian highlights from Rome, this is the way to do it!

Reserve an unforgettable day trip to Pompeii and the Amalfi Coast here before it books up!

8. See Rome’s highlights on a private tour (by golf cart!)

• Duration: 2.5–7 hours
• Time: Multiple times available from 9:30 am–7 pm
• Highlights: Cruise the streets of Rome on a private golf cart, customize the tour to your interests
• Inclusions: Professional guide, hotel pick-up and drop-off from central Rome, golf-cart transport fee, insurance, lunch break (full day option)
• Rating: 5 stars (check 3,500+ reviews here)
• Free cancellation: Yes
• Price: Check price here!

Don’t have long in Rome? Then make the most of your time with this private golf cart tour! 

Sure, Rome is technically walkable—but between the hills, cobblestone streets, and vast distances between some sights, it can get exhausting fast. That’s why this private golf cart tour was such a brilliant discovery!

It’s not only a fun and unique way to explore the city, but it also lets you cover a ton of ground in just a few hours. The golf cart easily navigated narrow streets where tour buses can’t go, bringing us right up close to major landmarks. We just sat back, relaxed, and gave our feet a much-needed break!

And since it’s a private tour, our guide Gabriel customized the entire experience to our interests—from iconic landmarks like the Trevi Fountain and Spanish Steps to hidden gems most tourists never find, like the Knights of Malta Keyhole (where you can see three countries through a single keyhole!).

I think this tour is the perfect way to get your bearings when you first arrive in Rome. Gabriel’s local insight gave us a perspective no guidebook ever could. It’s a fantastic option for families, travelers with mobility concerns, or anyone who wants to see the city in comfort and style!

Book this private tour of Rome easily here!

9. Go on a pub crawl 

• Duration: 3–4 hours
• Time: 8 pm and 9 pm
• Highlights: Night walking tour and bar crawl combo exploring Monti, visit popular bars and sample wine, beer, cocktails, and liqueurs, learn about Rome’s darker history
• Inclusions: Local guide, alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, guided tour of Monti
• Rating: 4.9 stars (check 640+ reviews here)
• Free cancellation: Yes
• Price: Check price here!

If you want to experience Rome’s vibrant nightlife, then make sure that you book this epic pub crawl! We had such a fantastic night out and will definitely do it again the next time we’re in Rome. 

We met our guide, Serra, in Monti, which is a quaint, Bohemian neighborhood with tons of great bars and restaurants. She took us to some unique bars that we actually went back to later on in our stay, and we got to drink like the locals do! We enjoyed Aperol spritzes, sambuca, limoncello, and even vermouth. 

Monti was actually the red light district of Ancient Rome (although times have definitely changed since then!) and Serra had us laughing the entire time with hilarious stories about some of the area’s unsavory historical characters. We also saw several monuments lit up at night, including the Victor Emmanuel II Monument, aka the most hated building in Rome – although you’ll have to do the tour to find out why. 

We ended the night in a fun bar with lots of dancing, and carried on partying with our newfound friends until the wee hours! It was such a fun time and a great way to spend a night in Rome. After all, you can’t let an evening in the Eternal City go to waste!

Prices start from €49, which includes five drinks. I’ll say that drinks in Rome can be pricey, so we felt like we got a great deal with this tour.

Book this pub crawl for an unforgettable night out!

10. In-depth Pantheon Tour 

• Duration: 1 hour
• Time: Multiple times available from 9:30 am–5 pm
• Highlights: Get an in-depth introduction to the Pantheon, learn about Rome’s founding myths, including the story of Romulus and Remus
• Inclusions: Guide, express group tour
• Rating: 4.8 stars (check 1,200+ reviews here)
• Free cancellation: Yes
• Price: Check price here!

You didn’t think we forgot about the Pantheon, did you? This architectural wonder has stood for nearly 2,000 years and is an absolute must-see in Rome!

The first time we visited, we went on our own, and while the building was impressive, we didn’t come away with much understanding. So on our next trip, we booked this guided tour, and it was definitely the right call!

Our guide, Anthony, brought the Pantheon’s story to life, from its origins as a temple to all Roman gods to its current role as a Catholic church. His engaging storytelling style captivated us as he revealed the mathematical precision, revolutionary engineering, and rich symbolism that make this structure so remarkable.

We loved learning about Romulus and Remus, Rome’s legendary founders, and how their story connects to the Pantheon’s history. These cultural insights added layers of meaning we completely missed out on when we visited on our own!

At just €37.50, this tour is a great value for one of Rome’s most iconic sites. And with a one-hour runtime, it’s easy to squeeze into even the busiest itinerary.

Get free cancellation when you book your Pantheon tour here!

Where to Stay in Rome

Now that you know some of the best activities in Rome, it’s time to find a great hotel! We won’t lie, Rome is an expensive city … but there are still some good deals on hotels if you know where to look.

Here are our top picks across different budgets, each offering a great location, comfort, and that special Roman charm.

Luxury – $$$

If you’re ready to splurge on a truly unforgettable stay, the FH55 Grand Hotel Palatino hits the mark with five-star luxury and an unbeatable location. Set in Rome’s stylish Monti neighborhood, it’s just a 5-minute stroll to the Colosseum and a 15–20 minute walk to the Trevi Fountain and Spanish Steps.​

The rooms feel brand new, with plush bedding, fluffy pillows, and some of the most comfortable beds we’ve ever slept in. The hotel’s in-house restaurant serves authentic Roman dishes by Chef Giuseppe Mulargia, while the Palatino American Bar offers some of the best Spritzes in a cozy, upscale setting.

As a bonus, you’ll be steps from Monti’s best local spots, like artisan gelato shops and cozy wine bars most tourists never find.​ Rooms usually start around €250–€300, with spacious suites also available.

Reserve this luxury Roman getaway at FH55 Grand Hotel Palatino here!

Mid-range – $$ (where we always stay when we visit Rome)

If you want charm, comfort, and a true Roman neighborhood feel, Domus Maggiore is a hidden gem. Set right on the beautiful Piazza di Santa Maria Maggiore, it’s about a 15–20 minute walk to Rome’s top sights—close enough to everything, but tucked away from the tourist crowds.

Our room was simple but elegant, with a comfy bed, soaring ceilings, and a balcony overlooking the square. Highly recommended for sipping morning espresso! Each day started with breakfast at the cozy café downstairs, where the great coffee, fresh pastries, and friendly staff made us feel like true locals.

As a bonus, Termini Station is just a 5-minute walk away, and you’ll be steps from the Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore, one of the most stunning churches in the city. Rooms typically start around €140, offering fantastic value for this prime location.

Book your stay at Domus Maggiore here and experience Rome like a local!

Budget – $

Hotel Giardino d’Europa is a fantastic find for budget travelers who don’t want to sacrifice comfort. Set in a quieter area, it’s still super convenient thanks to the free shuttle to the Anagnina Metro. Plus, being away from the crowds means better local restaurants at half the downtown prices.

Our room was simple but spotless, with a comfy bed, strong AC (a lifesaver in the Roman heat), and free Wi-Fi. The outdoor pool was a surprising bonus, and the daily buffet breakfast had plenty of options to fuel up before sightseeing.

With rates starting around €78 per night, not only is it an amazing value, but it’s the perfect place to unwind after a busy sightseeing day, without sacrificing easy access to the major attractions.

Secure this affordable Roman escape at Hotel Giardino d’Europa here!

Related Read: For a more in-depth description of different areas to stay in Rome and the best hotels, read our blog about Where to Stay in Rome!

Renting a Car in Italy

Renting a car in Italy is one of the best ways to explore the country beyond the cities—think charming Tuscan villages, dramatic Amalfi Coast drives, and hidden gems in the countryside. While Italy’s roads can be a little chaotic (especially in cities), with the right preparation, renting a car here can be an unforgettable and rewarding experience!

We always use Discover Cars when booking our rentals, and highly recommend them. They compare dozens of providers to find you the best rates, include important filters like “automatic transmission,” and offer affordable full insurance coverage. For more info, you can read our in-depth Discover Cars review here.

Tips for Renting a Car in Italy

• Drive on the right: Italians drive on the right-hand side of the road and overtake on the left. Right turns on red are illegal, and you must often yield to vehicles coming from the right at intersections.
• Stay alert and confident: Italian driving can feel aggressive in cities—expect assertive drivers, scooters weaving through traffic, and liberal horn use (often just a form of communication). Stay calm and practice defensive driving.
• Insurance is a must: We highly recommend adding full coverage insurance when booking. Minor damage like scratches and dents is common, especially in cities, and Discover Cars’ full protection gives you peace of mind at a low cost!
• Mind the ZTL zones: Many city centers have restricted traffic zones called ZTLs. Entering without a permit can result in a fine. Check with your hotel and use GPS with ZTL alerts.
• Choose the right vehicle: Roads in Italy can be narrow and parking tight, so a compact car is usually best. Most rentals are manual, but if you need an automatic, you can easily filter for one when booking with Discover Cars. 

What You Need to Rent a Car in Italy

• A valid driver’s license from your home country.
• If you’re from outside the EU, you’ll likely need an International Driving Permit (IDP).
• A credit card in the driver’s name is typically required for the security deposit.
• You must be at least 18 years old, but renters under 25 may incur a young driver surcharge.

Ready to hit the road? Book your car with Discover Cars here and discover the freedom of exploring Italy on your own terms!

Thanks for reading!

Rome is one of those bucket-list places you HAVE to visit! With so much to do in this incredible city, I know our list can’t cover everything, but it’s a great way to see some of the best Rome has to offer.

If our blog on Rome was helpful, have a look through all our other travel blogs! We’ve been exploring the world for years and have lots of travel tips to share. Here are a few other blogs that might come in handy for your trip:

10 Best Rome Tours and Day Trips

Our 10 Favorite Things We Did in Cefalu

Is Viator Legit? Our Viator Review based on Experience

20 Tips on How to Afford to Travel Long-Term