Rome is a magnificent, ancient city that has captivated and inspired generations of travellers and explorers. The vibrant Italian city has an almost endless list of things to see, do, taste, and hear. The Eternal City is one of my favourite towns, and it will astound you.
There are so many places to see in Rome that whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway or an action-packed family vacation, you’ll almost definitely want to return. Prepare to visit one of Europe’s most vibrant, fascinating, and memorable capital towns!
Plan a trip to this amazing city of Rome with Tap Air Portugal booking so book a flight ticket to Rome.
1. Colosseum
The Colosseum, which was in 72 AD, has remained a symbol of Rome’s strength and power for 2,000 years. The Colosseum was once used for brutal gladiator battles and animal conflicts. Today, taking a guided tour is the best way to appreciate this massive building and its fascinating history. This is one of the most well-reviewed guided tours, enabling you to bypass the notorious ticket line. Your guide will also transport you to the famous Roman Forum and Palatine Hill, making it an excellent value.
2. St Peter’s Basilica
St Peter’s Basilica (Basilica di San Pietro), one of the most important and holy sites in all of Christianity, is another must-see site and one of the top places to visit in Vatican City. It is massive and houses many priceless works of art and treasures from around the globe. St Peter’s Square, the centre of global Catholicism, is outside the cathedral. St. Peter’s Basilica, as well as the Sistine Chapel and the Vatican Museums. Because of its historic significance, the entire area has been as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
3. Food Tour
Rome is a foodie’s paradise, with some of the best cuisine in Italy (which is saying a lot!). From Michelin-starred fine dining restaurants to cheap local eateries and fantastic street food stands, there is an endless list of incredible locations to dine. A guided food tour is one of the best activities to do in Rome. There are many superb food tours throughout the city, but this one stands out. Your guide will transport you to some of the best street food in Rome and tell you about the history of the city’s most popular delicacies, such as suppl, traditional Roman pizza, and seasonal dishes.
4. Pantheon
The Pantheon was constructed in 27 BC as a temple dedicated to the ancient Roman gods. The Pantheon now houses the tombs of the renowned Italian artist Raphael and King Vittorio Emanuele II, known as the “Father of the Nation.” The Pantheon is free to access, but it’s best to pre-book to avoid waiting in line for hours. On weekends and statutory holidays, reservations are also required. To appreciate this magnificent structure.
5. Ostia Antica
The ancient port city of Ostia Antica, located outside of Rome, was around 620 BC. It’s a significant archaeological location with many well-preserved ruins and artefacts. Ostia Antica is accessible as a day excursion from Rome. Allow enough time to visit the many temples, baths, amphitheaters, and palaces. The region also has some lovely natural scenery, such as beaches, forests, and wetlands, which are ideal for visiting on foot or by bike.
6. Pizza e Mozzarella
As you might expect, modern-day Romans take their pizza, and tasting some of the city’s best is one of the must-do activities in Rome. Every resident has a favourite pizzeria, but my personal favourite is Pizza e Mozzarella. It appears to be a basic takeout establishment, but their pizzas are out of this world! The pizzas here are amazing, with a variety of tasty toppings to choose from and perfect crispy crusts. You can order whole pizzas or buy by the slice and experiment with various toppings.
7. Catacombs
The Catacombs of San Callisto house one of Rome’s oldest Christian burial sites, going back to the second century AD. Exploring this old subterranean labyrinth is both terrifying and inspiring. The tunnels house the graves of many martyrs and popes, as well as 3rd-century frescoes and some incredible sculptures. Check out this fantastic guided tour to make the most of your stay. This is one of the most unusual and incredible places to explore in Rome. The only other location I’ve ever been to that comes close is Naples’ San Gennaro Catacombs.
8. Trevi Fountain
The Trevi Fountain is ornate and beautiful in the centre of Piazza di Trevi, and it is one of Rome’s most renowned landmarks. The option is yours: admire it from afar or brave the crowds up close. The baroque masterpiece was designed by Italian artist Nicola Salvi and finished in 1762 at the intersection of three streets in the heart of the city. It houses several sculpted figurines and is at night. This fountain has long been an emblem of the Eternal City and is one of the most beautiful sights in Rome. It is also completely free to explore.
9. Villa Borghese
Villa Borghese is one of Rome’s largest open green spaces and a great location to spend an afternoon getting away from the city’s crowds and heat. It consists of 200 acres of landscaped grounds and is home to many sculptures, lakes, fountains, and monuments. Cardinal Scipione Borghese constructed the park on his family estate in 1605, and it opened to the public in 1903. Take a stroll through the gardens, or prepare a picnic to enjoy under one of the many ornamental trees. Check out this gallery walk or this one that includes a tour of both the gallery and the gardens.
10. Trastevere
Trastevere, situated on the west bank of the Tiber River, is one of Rome’s most bohemian neighbourhoods. Colorful buildings, tiny alleyways, bustling cafes, and traditional trattorias line its cobblestone streets. Spending an hour or two strolling around this eclectic neighbourhood is a wonderful way to get a feel for contemporary Rome. The atmosphere is electric, day or night, so add it to your list of fun activities to do in Rome. You could also try this well-reviewed Trastevere food excursion, which includes dinner and wine.
11. Spanish Steps
The Spanish Steps, another of the city’s most iconic sites, is a must-see in Rome. This beautiful outdoor staircase was in 1725 by builder Francesco de Sanctis and connects two piazzas: Trinità dei Monti and Piazza di Spagna. Throughout the spring and summer months, the stairs and plazas are with flowers, and at the top of the steps is the Church of Trinità dei Monti, a beautiful Baroque-style church constructed in 1585.
12. Roman Forum
The Forum, located in Rome between the Palatine and Capitoline Hills, was once the political, religious, and commercial centre of ancient Rome. It is now a huge archaeological site and one of Rome’s most popular tourist attractions. The Forum housed some of the ancient city’s most significant religious temples, government buildings, and other monuments, including the Temple of Julius Caesar and the Arch of Titus. I’d suggest taking a guided tour of these extensive ruins to learn more about their history and significance. This is one of the finest tours, which also includes a stop at the Colosseum and Palatine Hill.
13. Via dei Condotti
If you enjoy shopping, you’ll enjoy perusing the designer and luxury boutiques on Via dei Condotti. Some of the world’s top fashion labels can be on this iconic shopping street. It’s not an inexpensive location to shop. Even if you don’t want to spend money, via dei Condotti is a fascinating and appealing place to wander and soak up the glamorous atmosphere. This is another excellent spot for people-watching (there are many in Rome!) because it is popular with the city’s elite. It is also situated near the Spanish Steps.
14. Castel Sant’Angelo
Castel Sant’Angelo, built by Emperor Hadrian in the second century as a mausoleum for himself and his family, is an amazing circular castle and another incredible illustration of ancient Roman engineering. It is one of Rome’s (many) major landmarks, situated on the banks of the Tiber River. Because the castle is a popular attraction in Rome, purchase a skip-the-line ticket in preparation to avoid having to stand in a long line once you arrive.
15. Sistine Chapel
The Sistine Chapel, situated in Vatican City next to St. Peter’s Basilica, is one of the top locations to visit in Rome. This magnificent structure is for its ornate decoration and breathtaking frescoes painted by Michelangelo in the 16th century. These frescoes, which show scenes from the Old Testament, cover the ceiling and many of the walls. The Sistine Chapel is one of the most famous things to do in Rome, and it can get quite crowded. (Though it is still completely worth it). Tours run throughout the day, and reservations must be in advance as they sell out.
The land of Rome is well connected with Tap Portugal Airline so book your flight ticket from your nearby Airport.