With a history spanning over 3,000 years, filled with rich culture, art, and architecture, Rome stands as one of the most captivating destinations for travelers. The city is renowned for its remarkable architectural legacy and breathtaking panoramic views, drawing thousands of visitors each year who are eager to explore the remnants of the once-powerful Roman Empire and the masterpieces of Renaissance-era artists.

Whether you’re traveling with friends or family, Rome offers the perfect setting for quality time together. In this article, we highlight the top 12 things to do in Rome.

Visiting The Colosseum

The Colosseum in Rome is often at the top of many tourists’ lists. Built in 72 AD, this iconic structure once hosted spectacular gladiatorial battles and events for vast crowds, and later served as a site for Christian religious education. Experience the grandeur of one of the world’s most famous landmarks, especially breathtaking when seen at night.

A variety of walking tours, both day and night, are available to guide you through the remarkable engineering and architecture of the amphitheater, as well as the history of the gladiators and the competitions that took place within its walls. A tour ticket or pass will grant you access to this awe-inspiring site.

Interesting Fact: An estimated 500,000 people reportedly lost their lives throughout the period of gladiatorial battles and contests.

Vatican Museum

The Vatican Museums are a must-see for anyone eager to experience the incredible sculptures and influential art from the Renaissance era. Embark on a 3-hour art journey in the heart of Christendom as you explore iconic landmarks like the Sistine Chapel, the Pope’s residence, and the home to some of the most stunning works by Renaissance masters Michelangelo and Raphael.

Interesting Fact: The art collection in the Vatican Museum extends for 9 miles making it the largest art collection in the world.

Arcibasilica di San Giovanni in Laterano

The Archbasilica of St. John Lateran, or San Giovanni in Laterano, is one of the largest cathedral churches in Rome. It is regarded as the “mother church” of the Catholic faith and has undergone multiple phases of reconstruction under the guidance of various Popes over the years.

There are various tours available that allow you to explore the basilica.

Fun Fact: St. John Lateran’s basilica was originally constructed in 314 AD, making it the oldest church in the world.

St.Peter’s Basilica

The St. Peter’s Basilica is considered as the pillar of Catholic shrines that is located inside the Vatican City. It holds a unique place in the heart of Christians from around the world owing to the burial site of St. Peter, the first Pope in the Catholic tradition.

It is also known to be a hallmark of Renaissance architecture due to it being designed by renowned Renaissance sculptors such as Michelangelo. St. Peter’s Basilica is a major tourist attraction.

Interesting Fact: The St. Peter’s Basilica is the largest Catholic Church in the world.

The Pantheon

The Pantheon is another of Rome’s architectural masterpieces. Originally built in the year 27 BC, it was later changed into a Church in the 7th century and is the burial sites of well known figures such as the Renaissance artist Raphael and King Victor Emmanuel II.
Though you can visit the Pantheon any time of the day, the recommended time to visit is the evening and is open every day for the public.

Interesting Fact: Pantheon is a Greek phrase that translates to mean “honor all Gods”. Its construction was intended to be a place of worship to all gods.

Pizza al Taglio

Going on multiple walking tours is bound to make you tired and hungry. What better way to fill your hunger by getting the best of Italian pizzas at Pizza al Taglio. This restaurant offers some of the best sliced pizzas in different portions and types. Whether it is tomato and mozzarella pizza or beef, Pizza al Taglio offers you the best of authentic traditional pizzas.

Interesting Fact: The pizzas in Al-Taglio are served and priced according to the weight of each slice. Al Taglio lives up to its name meaning slice.

The Capitoline Museums

Located in twin palaces on top of the Capitoline Hill, the Capitoline Museums contain archeological artifacts. The collection includes Roman statues, medieval as well as Renaissance art, coins and jewels.

Interesting fact: The Capitoline Museums’ collection is the oldest public art display in the world.

The Villa Borghese Gardens

Stop by at the Villa Borghese Gardens to absorb the fresh breeze of nature. In contrast to how Rome may appear to be a city for Roman history enthusiasts only, the Villa Borghese gardens is the perfect place for both children and adults to enjoy. There are many points of interest that you can find in the gardens upon visiting.

Interesting fact: The development of the gardens was intended to be used by Cardinal Scipione Borghese as his party villa in Rome. It was later reconstructed in the 20th century.

Trevi Fountain

There is nothing more relaxing than hearing the sounds of flowing water. The Trevi fountain has something for everyone to enjoy. Located in a piazza, the gushing waters in front of the monumental architecture makes the Trevi fountain an exhilarating attraction for many tourists.

Interesting fact: The water pouring out of the cast iron pipe on the steps of the fountain is ready to drink, something the Romans from the past enjoyed.

Roman Forum

If you find the Colosseum exhilarating, there is no reason for you not to go to the Roman Forum. Known for being the centre of the city in Ancient Rome, it houses some of the oldest of government buildings and temples of the time. Multiple tour guides are available for you to learn about the fascinating Ancient Roman political history.

Interesting fact: It took more than a century for excavations to clear the Roman Forum.

La Bocca della Verita

This is a landmark made from marble that represents a man-like face with his mouth open. Situated outside the Church of Santa Maria, this ‘mouth of truth’ is reminiscent of a legend which says that if the person who puts his or her hand into the mouth is a liar, the mouth will bite off the hand.

Interesting fact: The mouth of truth test was featured in the 1952 Oscar winning movie ‘Roman Holiday’.

Via Condotti

If you are considering shopping in the ancient city of Rome, there is no place better than the Via Condotti. Via Condotti is filled with a unique combination of both historical buildings and shopping boutiques. A visit to Via Condotti can provide a refreshing alternative to the educational walking tours around the Colosseum and Vatican museums.

Interesting fact: The terms Via Condotti translate to ‘by way of canal or road’ as it was one of the streets in Ancient Rome that allowed people crossing the Tiber River to arrive at Pincio hill.

End Note

Rome is a fantastic destination for you to visit and make use of your coming summer holiday. It contains a wide array of famous attractions and things to do and enjoy with family and friends. If you are going to Italy, please check our Italian tours, trips and tickets.

If you are going to Venice, please don’t miss out on the top things to do in Venice also.