29 Hidden Gems in Rome: Unique Things to do in Italy’s Eternal City

Let’s be honest – there’s no shortage of things to see in Rome. From the Colosseum to Vatican City, it can take at least three days to check off the city’s “must-do” list.

But beyond the typical tourist itinerary, there are plenty of hidden gems in Rome to discover. Incredible places like the Appian Way or local neighborhoods like Testaccio often go unnoticed.

It’s these lesser-known spots that often make a trip the most memorable. Ancient ruins without the crowds, quiet museums, secret courtyards – these unique spots showcase a different side of Rome.

I’ve compiled this list of hidden gems to inspire you to go off the beaten path. Add a few to your itinerary, or consider staying an extra day or two to explore more of the Eternal City.

1. Galliera Sciarra

Just steps from the Trevi Fountain, the Galliera Sciarra is a beautiful courtyard that often goes unnoticed. Although privately owned, it’s open to the public during regular work hours.

Built in the 1800s, what makes this space unique is its walls that are covered in intricate frescoes painted by Gabriele Cellini. The frescoes, painted in the Art Nouveau style, depict allegorical imagery of women from Greek and Etruscan mythology.

The building was originally intended to be a shopping mall, but the project was never fully realized. Instead, it now serves as an office space. I’ll admit, I was a bit envious seeing people walk out of the building, thinking, this is their everyday commute!

2. Appian Way

The Appian Way is one of the first Roman roads, originally built in 312 BC. It began in Rome and stretched south through Campania all the way to Brindisi, in modern-day Puglia.

Amazingly, parts of the road still exist today, where you can walk on the same stones once tread by Roman emperors. Along the road, you’ll also find historic villas, monuments, and ruins that can be visited for an additional fee.

The first few miles of the road are located in Parco dell’Appia Antica, just outside central Rome. You can easily reach the park by metro and bus – it took me 30-45 minutes each way from the Spanish Steps.

We rented bikes for the day and loved the experience! E-bikes are also available, which I would have loved to rent, but they were sold out when we visited. If you have the time, spending an afternoon here is one of the coolest day trips from Rome – I can’t recommend it enough.

3. Villa Medici

Built in the 16th century, Villa Medici was one of the first properties acquired by the Medici family in Rome, whose influence was primarily centered in Florence. In the 19th century, the villa became home to the French Academy in Rome, now serving as an artists’s residency and exhibition center.

You can explore the villa on a guided tour or visit the art exhibitions. On my last trip to Rome, I booked a guided tour during the final time slot of the day, and it was absolutely wonderful.

The guide shared fascinating details about the villa’s history, the Medici family’s influence in Rome, and even took us into some secret rooms.

Read more: 17 Best Museums in Rome

4. Palazzo Altemps

The Palazzo Altemps was once a privately owned palace, home to several cardinals and noblemen over the years. These aristocrats amassed an impressive art collection, which is now owned by the Italian government.

The primary pieces on display here are Greek and Roman sculptures, though I visited specifically to see the frescoed loggia pictured above.  

5. Quartiere Coppedè

Quartiere Coppedè is a unique area within Rome’s Trieste neighborhood, designed by architect Gino Coppedè. This quarter is home to 26 small palaces and 17 villas, all built in the early 20th century.

While Art Nouveau is the main architectural style, you’ll also find elements of Baroque, Gothic, Greek, and Roman influences.

You can enter this area through the arch on Via Tagliamento, which leads into Piazza Mincio. At the center of the piazza is the Fountain of Frogs, which holds a quirky claim to fame: it’s where The Beatles famously jumped in after performing at a nearby venue.

Read more: Best Time to Visit Rome

6. Domus Aurea

The Domus Aurea, or Golden House, was a lavish palace designed by and for Emperor Nero. Built over 2,000 years ago, it’s no surprise that little of its original splendor remains today.

This is partly due to wear from time but also because Nero’s successor saw the palace as a shameful symbol of excess. As a result, many fixtures were removed and much of it was deliberately filled in with dirt.

You can only visit the Domus Aurea on a guided tour, which you can book here. The section open to visitors was rediscovered in the 15th century. While the original palace had 150 rooms, only a few are accessible today due to safety restrictions. Be sure to wear sturdy, comfortable shoes for your visit.

7. Baths of Caracalla

On my fifth trip to Rome, I finally made it to the Baths of Caracalla, a site that had long been on my “maybe next time” list.

I was completely blown away by the sheer size of this ancient bath complex and genuinely surprised that more people don’t visit. After visiting, I’m convinced it should be on every Rome must-do list.

Built around 212 AD, this was the second-largest bath complex in Rome, after the Baths of Diocletian. A few hundred years later, the baths fell into disuse and were slowly buried under centuries of construction and time. Excavations in the late 19th century brought them back to light.

Many of the treasures found during those excavations are on display elsewhere, but you’ll still see spectacular mosaic floors in place and other decorative pieces scattered around.

The outer shell of the building remains well intact, making it one of the most complete examples of ancient Roman bath complexes.

During your visit, you’ll walk through the cold rooms, hot rooms, and open-air swimming pool. Try to imagine the baths in their prime, covered with brightly colored mosaics, frescoed walls, and elegant marble slabs.

Book a 1.5-hour guided tour of the baths here.

8. Mouth of Truth (Bocca della Verità)

Located in the Santa Maria in Cosmedin church, just a 3-minute walk from Circus Maximus, the Mouth of Truth is a legendary marble mask. According to myth, the mask will bite off the hand of any liar who dares to place their hand in its mouth.

Made famous by Audrey Hepburn in Roman Holiday, it was originally used as a sewage cover during Roman times.

The church is free to visit, though donations are appreciated.

9. Basilica di Santo Stefano Rotondo al Celio

The Basilica di Santo Stefano Rotondo al Celio is the first church of its kind – a 5th-century church with a unique circular design. Its center is surrounded by 25 marble columns, and the walls are decorated with a series of frescoes.

The church as a long historical connection with Hungary and is managed by the Pontifical German-Hungarian college. It’s open daily for visitors except Mondays.

10. Testaccio Market

Across the Tiber river from Trastevere is Rome’s Testaccio neighborhood. It’s a bit out of the way, so not too many tourists venture here.

On my last trip to Rome, visiting Testaccio Market was at the top of my list. I’d heard and read a lot about the delicious food and couldn’t bear to miss out any longer.

The main reason I wanted to go was to try the pizza from Casa Manco. We grabbed a few slices as an appetizer before heading to a nearby restaurant for lunch – but I quickly regretted not eating here instead. The pizza, all handmade with unforgettable flavors, was that good.

You can book a food tour of the market or explore on your own. I highly recommend visiting around lunchtime and sampling a variety of foods.

11. Aventine Hill

Not too far from Testaccio is one of Rome’s seven hills. Aventine Hill is the southernmost hill and is famous for the views, but it’s especially popular for the Knights of Malta Keyhole.

Despite its tiny size, you can’t miss the keyhole thanks to the line of people waiting for their turn. Once you look through it, you’ll understand why – it has a perfectly framed view across the gardens to the dome of St. Peter’s Basilica.

12. Janiculum Hill

For one of my favorite viewpoints in Rome, head through Trastevere and up the stairs to Janiculum Hill. Surprisingly, this hill isn’t one of Rome’s original “seven hills,” as it technically sits outside the boundaries of the original ancient city. However, some now refer to it as the eighth hill of modern-day Rome.

Make your way to the terrace at Piazza Giuseppe Garibaldi, near Giuseppe Garibaldi Monument. From here, you’ll have a beautiful view of of the ancient city. The best time to visit for photos is at sunset, when the sun lights up the city.

If the evening doesn’t work for you, noon is another great time to go. For over 100 years, a cannon has been fired daily at 12:00 PM.

13. Fontana dell’Acqua Paola

The Trevi Fountain is a must-see for a reason, but the next best fountain in Rome can be found on Janiculum Hill. The Fontana dell’Acqua Paola is a spectacular fountain that was designed in the 17th century by Giovanni Fontana.

Constructed with white marble repurposed from the ruins of the Roman Temple of Minerva, the fountain originally served to provide clean drinking water to nearby residents. Today, it’s a nice stop on your way up the hill.

14. Galleria Doria Pamphilj

The Doria Pamphilj Palace and its collection remain privately owned by the Doria Pamphilj family. Luckily, they have opened the palace to the public for viewings.

By Rome standards, this is a quieter attraction— so it’s a great opportunity to wander the rooms and admire the artwork at your own pace.

The palace is beautiful. Highlights include the Hall of Mirrors, with its glittering chandeliers and baroque details, and the state rooms, featuring floral wallpapers and ornate furnishings.

The walls are covered with countless paintings, including masterpieces by Titian, Raphael, and Velázquez. Make use of the audio guide, as it provides fascinating stories and context behind many of the paintings and sculptures throughout the palace.

I recommend this private tour of the palace if you are interested in visiting with a guide.

15. The Capuchin Crypt

The Capuchin Crypt contains the remains of about 3,700 Capuchin friars, though most are not displayed as complete skeletons. Instead, their bones are decoratively arranged throughout the space.

The crypt is divided into six rooms, one of which contains three complete skeletons, believed to be teenagers. The display serves as a reminder of life’s fragility and the inevitability of death.

Until recently, the crypt was only occasionally open to visitors, but it is now accessible year-round, except on select holidays.

16. Largo di Torre Argentina

This square has four temples, each dating back to approximately the 3rd or 4th century BC. It is also home to the ruins of the Theatre and Curia of Pompey, the oldest theater in Rome, and the infamous site of Julius Caesar’s assassination in 44 BC.

You can walk around the square for free or pay to visit the ruins up close. For cat lovers, here’s a fun fact: the square is also home to a large population of stray cats, cared for by an animal protection organization.

17. Oratorio del Santissimo Crocifisso

The Oratory of the Most Holy Crucifix is tied to the church of San Marcello al Corso. In the 16th century, the church was completely destroyed by fire, except for a wooden cross.

Three years later, this same cross was credited with stopping an outbreak of the plague in Rome, making it an object of miracles. The cross’s significance led to the creation of the Confraternity of the Most Holy Crucifix, a brotherhood dedicated to aiding the poor in name of this relic. It was the brotherhood that built the oratory as a meeting place, which now houses the cross.

The building’s facade is modest, which means it can easily be overlooked. However, stepping inside, you’ll find a small yet elegant space decorated with frescoes on the walls and ceiling. At the altar, you’ll find the Most Holy Crucifix, front and center.

18. Chiesa Santa Maria Addolorata

A total hidden gem in Rome, I stumbled upon this church on my way to the Quartiere Coppedè.

Located in Piazza Buenos Aires, this Roman Catholic church was built in the early 20th century by an Argentinian priest. What makes it so special are its colorful mosaics that decorate both the church’s interior and exterior walls.

19. Parco degli Acquedotti (Aqueduct Park)

Rome’s Aqueduct Park spans nearly 600 acres and can easily be reached by metro from the city center. In ancient times, this is where the city’s aqueducts converged. Seven aqueducts still stand in partial ruins, with some sections still well intact.

In the park, you can also visit the ruins of several towers and the Villa dei Sette Bassi, one of the largest suburban Roman Villas.

The park also has plenty of green space, perfect for jogging or having a picnic. It’s particularly beautiful around sunset.

20. Casa Romane del Cielo

The Casa Romane del Cielo is an archaeological site that was originally an apartment complex for Rome’s elite. Later, it was converted into a single-family home before the Basilica of Saints John and Paul was built over it in the 5th century.

During your visit, you can explore several rooms, with faded frescoes on the walls, mosaic remnants, and other discoveries from the excavation finds, such as pottery.

When we visited, there were only a few other people there. It’s well off the usual tourist path and one of the more unique things to do in Rome.

21. The Terrace at Monumento Nazionale a Vittorio Emanuele II

On a recent trip to Rome, I was on the hunt for the best views of the city, and this is definitely in the top 5. This controversial monument was built at the end of the 19th century in honor of Victor Emmanuel II, the first king of a unified Italy.

It is one of the tallest structures in Rome, built right next to the Forum and Colosseum, which means from its rooftop terrace you get the best unobstructed view looking over ancient Rome.

Head to the elevator at the back of the monument, pay the fee of €17 (steep – but worth it), and take in the sights from the top. I went near the end of the day, just before sunset, and the lighting was spectacular.

There is also a cafe at the first level terrace (where you catch the elevator) if you want to pause for a break and grab a drink.

22. Teatro di Marcello & Portico of Octavia

For Colosseum vibes without the crowds, visit the Theatre of Marcellus, an open-air amphitheater completed around 13 BC – 100 years before the Colosseum. Commissioned by Julius Caesar (though completed after his death), it held 20,000 people, making it the largest amphitheater in Rome at the time.

The ruins are free to visit alongside the others in the area. Nearby the theater, you’ll also find the Portico di Octavio, an ancient gate built around 24 BC by Augustus.

Surprisingly, this area is never too busy, even though I think it’s one of the most unique spots in the city.

23. Borromini’s Perspective Gallery of Palazzo Spada

Galleria Spada is a wonderful art gallery that’s perfect for a quick visit. However, the real highlight of this palace is Borromini’s Perspective in the courtyard.

This incredible optical illusion, designed in the 17th century, creates the appearance of long corridor, though it is actually only 8.5 meters long.

24. Villa Farnesina

Built in the 16th century by a wealthy banker, Villa Farnesina is one of the finest examples of Italian Renaissance architecture. The interiors of the villa are decorated with beautiful frescoes by Renaissance artists, including Raphael.

One of the most impressive rooms is the Sala delle Prospettive (Room of Perspective), where the paintings create an optical illusion, making the room look much larger.

25. Trastevere

While this neighborhood may not be such a secret anymore, Trastevere, in my mind, is still one of Rome’s most enchanting neighborhoods. Located across the Tiber River, it’s not the easiest to reach, as there’s no metro access—you’ll need to arrive by bus or on foot.

Every time I visit Rome, I find myself drawn back to Trastevere. Wandering its quaint streets feels like stepping into a different version of the city – charming yet modern, and a breath of fresh air without the weight of history and crowds that takes over the ancient center.

The food scene here is incredible – arguably one of the best in Rome. Some of my favorite spots, like Villa Farnesina and Janiculum Hill, are in this neighborhood.

26. St. Ivo alla Sapienza

This Baroque 17th-century Catholic church, designed by architect Borromini, is part of the University of Rome and was commissioned by Pope Urban VIII.

As you walk through the courtyard, don’t miss the unique spiral design at the top of Borromini’s dome – unlike anything I’d seen before.

27. Basilica of San Clemente

Another one of Rome’s hidden gems, this 12th-century basilica may seem like any other church, but beneath it lies fascinating discoveries.

The first underground level features a 4th-century church, beautifully decorated with frescoes, while the level below houses a 1st-century Mithraic temple, a rare glimpse into the mysterious Roman religion dedicated to Mithras.

28. Vicus Caprarius

Vicus Caprarius is an underground archeological site that features an ancient residential area, including a condominium block and an ancient water reserve.

There is also a small museum that showcases many of the objects and discoveries from the excavations.

29. The Keats–Shelley House

A house museum in one of Rome’s prime locations – right next to the Spanish Steps – is dedicated to the romantic British poets John Keats and Percy Shelley.

Inside, you’ll see the writers’ personal collection, along with artworks and other relics. This is definitely one of Rome’s most unique museums that’s worth a visit if you’re a fan of the poets or are interested in taking a peek inside a modern home in Rome.