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Best of Rome: 30 Top Things to do in Rome, Italy (2025)

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I first visited Rome as a college student, fueled by a strong desire to explore every corner of Italy and, if possible, all of Europe. It was March, just after Easter, and the weather was rainy throughout my stay. There’s something about Italy that feels even more enchanting in the rain – I soaked in every second of it.

Since that initial trip, I’ve returned to the Eternal City many times – six or seven, perhaps. I’ve lost count. What I love most about Rome is that history peeks from every corner. No matter where you are, there’s always something new to discover, whether it’s a 2,000-year-old obelisk etched with tales of the ancient past or a 500-year-old Roman basilica decorated with frescoes by one of Italy’s legendary artists.

You could spend months here, armed with a giant to-do list, and still not see everything. It wasn’t easy condensing this list into the 30 best things to do in Rome, but I managed.

If you’re visiting Rome for the first time, you’ll naturally want to see the iconic sights. Scroll down to my top 10 list for an overview of the must-sees.

For those who have been to Rome before, there’s always more to explore. Be sure to also check out my list of the best hidden gems in Rome, where I take you to some of the city’s lesser-known but equally fascinating spots.

In this guide, you’ll find not only my top recommendations for what to see in Rome but also a curated list of my favorite restaurants, hotels, a detailed transportation guide, and tips to enhance your visit and make it as memorable as possible.

Before You Visit

View of Rome, Italy over the River Tibur

Planning a trip to Rome can feel overwhelming with so much to see. Here are a few tips to help you get started:

Beware of Pickpockets

Yes, you’ve probably already heard this, but it bears repeating – pickpockets are real and they thrive in Rome. A family member had their wallet and passport stolen on the metro, and I’ve heard similar stories countless times from other travelers.

How can you avoid this? Wear one of those passport belts or neck pouches. If that’s not your thing, I always travel with a crossbody purse that has a secure flap or zipper, positioned in front of me at all times, especially on trains, metros, buses, or anywhere crowded. If you don’t wear purses, keep your wallet in your front pocket or use a passport belt.

Book in Advance

Rome is one of the busiest tourist destinations in the world. To avoid long lines and disappointment, book your tickets for top attractions like the Colosseum, Roman Forum, Borghese Gallery, Vatican Museums, and Catacombs well in advance. Try to book at least one month before your trip.

Additionally, high-speed train tickets should be booked at least three weeks in advance to secure the best prices.

Double Check Opening Hours

Many of Rome’s museums and attractions are not open seven days a week. For instance, the Vatican Museums are closed on Sundays, and the Borghese Gallery is closed on Mondays. Always double-check the opening hours before planning your itinerary – this is crucial.

Reserve Restaurants

Many of Rome’s top restaurants fill up quickly. Make a reservation at least one to two weeks in advance; some may require even earlier bookings.

Best Things to do in Rome

1. Colosseum

Rome’s Colosseum was commissioned by Emperor Vespasian in 72 AD and completed in 80 AD. It is the largest ancient amphitheater in the world with a capacity to hold of 50,000 spectators.

Gladiator fights, battles, wild beast hunts, and other events were held here. The amphitheater was actively used for 400 years before falling into disuse; subsequently, its materials were repurposed for other buildings throughout Rome.

Fortunately, much of it remains intact, making it possible to explore this magnificent structure 2,000 years later.

For the best experience, I always recommend booking a guided tour of the Colosseum to anyone visiting Rome. You’ll learn so much about the history, stories, and significance of this Wonder of the World.

Other Tour Options:

Tickets: Get your tickets well in advance. Do not risk buying them on the day of your visit, as you’ll likely be stuck in a line for an hour or more. Purchase online at the official website or from Tiqets. Basic tickets cost €18 and include access to Palatine Hill and the Roman Forum. For €24, you can also get access to the underground levels of the Colosseum.

2. Roman Forum

The Roman Forum was the vibrant heart of ancient Rome for a thousand years. From the Colosseum, you can walk along Via Sacra, one of the main roads that lead to the Forum.

This central area was filled with temples, arches, and basilicas, frequented by everyone from government leaders to slaves.

Today, it is primarily ruins, but some structures like the Arch of Titus and the Temple of Antoninus Pius remain relatively well-preserved.

To visit, you can opt for a self-guided walking tour, or a guided tour.

Tickets: Get your tickets well in advance. Do not risk buying them on the day of your visit, as you’ll likely be stuck in a line for an hour or more. Purchase online at the official website or from Tiqets. Basic tickets cost €18 and include access to Palatine Hill and the Colosseum. For €24, you can also get access to the underground levels of the Colosseum and a few other sites.

3. Palatine Hill

Photo Credit: Anamaria Mejia/Shutterstock.com

Rising high above the Roman Forum and Colosseum, Palatine Hill is one of Rome’s famed seven hills. This area was historically the city’s most prestigious address, where emperors and aristocrats built their palaces and mansions.

It provided a tranquil escape from the busy, often dusty and odorous city below. Today, you can explore the remains of these opulent villas, including the home of Emperor Augustus and the massive palace built by Domitian, the notorious emperor.

Tickets: Get your tickets well in advance. Do not risk buying them on the day of your visit, as you’ll likely be stuck in a line for an hour or more. Purchase online at the official website or from Tiqets. Basic tickets cost €18 and include access to Roman Forum and the Colosseum. For €24, you can also get access to the underground levels of the Colosseum and a few other sites.

4. Trajan’s Column and Forum

Following his victorious campaigns across Europe, Emperor Trajan commissioned a Forum to commemorate his conquests. The 126-foot-tall stone column, completed in 113 AD, is one of the most intact monuments from ancient Rome.

The column intricately details Trajan’s victories, offering a vivid glimpse into the nature of warfare during ancient Roman times.

This area is open to the public and free to explore.

5. Pantheon

The Pantheon stands as one of the best-preserved buildings from ancient Rome. Completed around 126 AD under Emperor Hadrian, it was originally built as a temple dedicated to all the gods.

For four centuries, it served as a temple until 609 AD when it was converted into a Christian church.

The dome of the Pantheon is an architectural marvel. It remains the largest unsupported dome in the world and held the title of the largest dome overall until St. Peter’s Basilica was constructed in the early 1500s. The only source of light inside is through the oculus, an opening at the dome’s apex.

Visiting the Pantheon is always a highlight for me; no matter how many times I return, it remains my favorite site to visit in Rome.

Tickets: Tickets cost €5, and they can be purchased in advance online at Musei Italiani.

6. Trevi Fountain

Designed by architect Nicola Salvi, the Trevi Fountain was completed in 1762. It Is made from travertine stone and is the largest fountain in the city.

It is also one of Rome’s most popular attractions. You can’t leave without tossing a coin – or three – into the fountain. The legend goes that one coin ensures a return trip to Rome, two coins will find you love, and tree coins will lead to marriage.

Whatever your wish, it’s a must to participate in this ritual at least once!

Tip: The Trevi Fountain is almost always crowded, making it difficult to get close without being jostled by selfie-takers. To avoid this situation, visit early in the morning before 7 AM. It’s also magical late at night when illuminated.

7. Spanish Steps

The Spanish Steps are one of the most iconic staircases in the world. Rising from Piazza di Spagna, the steps lead up to Trinità dei Monti, a Catholic church with two bell towers.

Climb to the top of the steps for a nice view overlooking the Piazza di Spagna.

Note: Sitting on the steps is prohibited. If caught, you could face a fine of up to €400.

8. St. Peter’s Basilica & Square

St. Peter’s Basilica is the largest church in the world and took 120 years to build. The impressive dome was designed by Michelangelo, and renowned pieces like Bernini’s Baldacchino and Michelangelo’s Pieta are housed inside.

Admission to the basilica is free.

Papal Audience: If you hope to see the Pope, papal audiences are held in St. Peter’s Square on Wednesday mornings, starting around 9:00 AM. For a good seat and view, arrive early. Note that the square and basilica are closed to regular visits on Wednesday mornings for this event. For more details, check the Vatican’s official site.

Dome: For one of the best views in Rome, climbing the cupola, or dome, is highly recommended. To get here, wait in line to enter the basilica and then follow signs to the cupola. To get to the top of the dome, you can either take an elevator plus 320 steps. Or you can climb all 551 steps. The cost without the elevator is €8, and €10 with the elevator. I think the extra €2 to take the elevator is well worth it.

Lines: During peak season, from April to September, expect long lines for entry. I once waited almost two hours to climb the dome. There are no skip-the-line tickets, so come prepared to wait or consider visiting first thing in the morning.

9. Vatican Museums

Photo credit: Antartis/Depositphotos.com

The Vatican Museums contain one of the finest art collections in the world that ranges from Egyptian mummies to ancient Greek and Roman sculptures, and Renaissance masterpieces. It is estimated to house about nine miles of art, but don’t worry, you’ll be able to see the highlights within a few hours.

A few pieces you shouldn’t miss include Giuseppe Momo’s spiral staircase, Caravaggio’s Deposition in The Pinacoteca, and, of course, the iconic Sistine Chapel.

Photo credit: AndreasZerndl/Depositphotos.com

From my personal experience, the best way to explore the Vatican Museums is by booking a guided tour. Large museums can be overwhelming, making it difficult to decide what to see and leaving you feeling like you might be missing important works.

Recommended Vatican Tours:

Tickets: A full price ticket which includes the Vatican Museums and The Sistine Chapel costs €20. Children 7-18 years old can get a ticket at a reduced fee of €8. There are also add-ons available to your ticket purchase including an audio guide for €7. Note that all tickets are timed and no re-entry is allowed. 

Book your fast track tickets in advance online to avoid the long wait times. I’ve heard that crowds are more manageable if you visit later in the afternoon instead of first thing in the morning.

For further information about the museums and collections and to book your tickets direct, check the Vatican Museums official website.

10. Borghese Gallery

Located in the Villa Borghese Gardens on Pincian Hill, the Borghese Gallery is one of Rome’s must-see museums.

The villa houses 20 rooms, each filled with sculptural masterpieces and renowned artworks by Italian greats such as Raphael, Titian, and Giovanni Bellini.

One highlight is Bernini’s Apollo and Daphne, which captures Daphne’s transformation from nymph to laurel tree. Seeing this piece in person was a dream come true for me and even more impressive than I had imagined.

Due to the size of the property, all visits are limited to just two hours and are timed. Therefore, it’s extra important to arrive promptly at the time listed on your ticket so as not to miss out on anything during your visit. 

Tour: If you’re debating between a guided or self-guided tour, go for the guided option. I recently took a guided tour here, and it was one of my favorite museum experiences. The detailed explanations of the sculptures added so much to the visit.

Tickets: A full price ticket to the museum is €13, discounted tickets at just €2 are available for anyone ages 18 – 25 and entrance is free for all visitors under 18. Book tickets online at the official website several weeks before your visit.

11. Piazza Navona

Piazza Navona is one of Rome’s most picturesque squares, characterized by its long, oval shape. The square is lined with lively cafes, shops, and pastel-colored buildings.

It is built on the site of an ancient stadium, commissioned by Emperor Domitian around 86 AD, which once hosted races and Olympic-style games.

In the 1600s, the square underwent a transformation under the architectural guidance of Gian Lorenzo Bernini, a pivotal figure in Rome’s Baroque revival. At its center stands the famous Four Rivers Fountain, also designed by Bernini.

Piazza Navona is wonderful to walk around at any time of day or to enjoy an admittedly overpriced cocktail at one of the cafes.

12. Arch of Constantine

Photo credit: PantherMediaSeller/DepositPhotos.com

Located between the Colosseum and the Roman Forum, the Arch of Constantine is a triumphal arch that commemorates a pivotal victory in history. In 312 AD, Constantine defeated Emperor Maxentius at the Battle of the Milvian Bridge in Rome.

During the battle, Constantine experienced a vision that led him to convert to Christianity, a decision that subsequently prompted the conversion of the entire Roman Empire to the faith.

Completed in 315 AD, this arch serves as a stark reminder of the historic battle and the momentous shift that continues to influence the world today.

13. Capitoline Hill & Museums

Capitoline Hill is the most famous of Rome’s seven hills. In ancient Rome, it was the epicenter of the government and was home to several magnificent temples built around the 5th century BC.

Atop the hill is Piazza del Campidoglio, which was designed by Michelangelo. If you walk past the piazza to the very back, you’ll find one of the most incredible views of the Roman Forum.

The Capitoline Museums, situated within three palatial buildings on the hill, contain some of the most significant sculptures and artworks from ancient Rome. Among the highlights is the famous Lupa Capitolina, a life-sized sculpture of the she-wolf suckling Romulus and Remus, the legendary founders of Rome.

Tickets: A ticket to the museums is €14 full price and can be purchased online. Outside of high season you can buy same-day tickets, but purchasing them online allows you to avoid waiting in a line when you arrive.

Book: Private Tour of Capitoline Museums

14. Trastevere

Trastevere is 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 also in this neighborhood.

Food tour option: 4-hour Trastevere Food Tour at Twilight

15. Campo de’ Fiori

Up until the year 1456, Campo de’ Fiori was a field of flowers, as indicated by its name – ‘campo’ (field) and ‘fiori’ (flowers).

Now, you’ll find a vibrant market every morning from Monday to Saturday (closed on Sundays). Vendors sell everything from fresh fruits and vegetables to flowers and small packaged goods like olive oil and olive tapenades.

While the market is lovely, the real draw for me is a little bakery on the corner called Forno Campo de’ Fiori. What should you try here? Pizza al Taglio, or pizza by the slice. They make a delicious Roman-style pizza, and my favorite flavor is the simplest one: the marinara.

Next door, they also sell biscuits and sandwiches, but I recommend trying the pizza first – it’s a must!

16. 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.

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

17. Piazza del Popolo

For travelers venturing to Rome during ancient times, Piazza del Popolo was often their first glimpse of this thriving metropolis. At the center of the piazza is the Flaminio Obelisk, an ancient monument dating back to 1,300 BC, brought to Rome from Egypt by Emperor Augustus.

Originally, the obelisk was placed in Circus Maximus, a stadium that hosted chariot races, before it was relocated to this piazza in the 16th century.

The square is also notable for its three churches, two of which, known as the “twin churches,” frame the entrance to Via del Corso. One of Rome’s main roads.

For a great view of Piazza del Popolo, climb the stairs to Terrazza del Pincio.

18. Janiculum Hill

For one the best views of 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. The best time for photos is at sunset, when the sun lights up the city.

Make sure to stop at the Fontana dell’Acqua Paola on your way up or down, one of the city’s hidden gems.

19. 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.

20. Jewish Ghetto

Rome’s Jewish Ghetto was established in 1555 by the decree of Pope Paul IV, confining the city’s Jewish population to live under oppressive conditions. They were restricted to certain jobs and forced to reside within the ghetto’s boundaries, among other limitations.

The ghetto persisted until the late 19th century, when the Jewish community was finally granted freedom. Tragically, during the Nazi Occupation, 1,000 Jews from the Jewish Quarter were deported to Auschwitz, with only a few survivors.

Today, the area, now more aptly referred to as the Jewish Quarter, is a vibrant neighborhood filled with restaurants and shops. It has also become one of Rome’s most expensive districts, due to its central location.

Al Pompiere is one of my favorite restaurants in the area. I highly recommend the Tagliolini al Limone, a light and creamy pasta dish that is simply delightful.

Tour Option: Rome Jewish Ghetto and Great Synagogue Small Group Walking Tour

21. Basilica of San Clemente

Credit: Lindasky76 / Depositphotos.com

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.

Tickets: The basilica is free to visit. To see the underground excavations, tickets cost €10. Pre-book online at the official website.

22. Catacombs

Along the Appian Way, just outside central Rome, lie two ancient underground cemeteries. Dating back to the 2nd century, the first of these catacombs is San Callisto, which was the largest and most significant cemetery of its time. It served as the final resting place for tens of thousands of Christians, including 16 popes.

A short distance up the road is San Sebastiano, another catacomb similar to San Callisto, where you’ll also find crypts, frescoes, and various burial sites.

The catacombs were actively used until the 5th century when the church decreed that all burials should be conducted above ground.

Tickets:

  • San Callisto: €10 in person or €12 online (including booking fee)
  • San Sebastiano: €10 in person or €12 online (including booking fee)

Tour Option: The Original Roman Crypts and Catacombs Tour with Transfers

23. 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.

Tour Option: Rome E-Bike Tour of Appian Way, Catacombs & Roman Aqueducts

24. Victor Emmanuel II Monument

the Victor Emmanuel II Monument was completed in 1935 to honor Italy’s first king after unification, King Vittorio Emanuele II. It’s hard to miss with its location atop Capitoline Hill and height of 266 feet.

It’s free to walk up the steps of the monument to the cafe and first-level terrace. However, one of the best things to do in Rome is to ride the elevator all the way to the top of the monument for unparalleled views.

The cost to ride the elevator is €17, and it’s absolutely worth it – it’s the best view in Rome.

25. 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.

26. Castel Sant’Angelo

Castel Sant’Angelo was originally built as the Mausoleum of Hadrian for the tomb of Emperor Hadrian in 139 AD. Over the centuries, it has transformed from a mausoleum into a military fortress, a castle, and even a prison.

Inside is a museum, which includes a military section, the papal library, and a treasury. To cap off your visit, make your way to the top terrace, which offers stunning views of Vatican City.

27. 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.

28. 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.

Tickets: €16 per person. You can either book online for a small fee or in person.

29. Palazzo Massimo

Palazzo Massimo, part of the National Museum of Rome, houses an extraordinary collection of ancient Roman art. The museum features busts of historical figures such as Julius and Augustus Caesar, as well as the exquisite mosaics from Villa di Livia.

In the extensive exhibits you’ll find precious gems, Roman coins, sarcophagi, sculptures, mosaics, and more. Pieces in the collection date as far back as the first and second centuries BC.

Tickets: €8 full price and can be purchased online. All tickets are timed, so make sure to arrive promptly at your designated entry time. You can also get a combined ticket which includes this and the other sites of the Roman National Museum – that combined ticket is priced at €16.

30. Galleria Spada

The Galleria Spada is located in what is often considered to be one of the most beautiful buildings in Rome, the 16th-century Palazzo Capodiferro, best known for its stunning facade. 

Throughout the four rooms of the gallery, there is a fine collection of Baroque paintings and furniture.

The gallery also houses quite a few portraits as well as other pieces. You’ll find works by artists such as Titian, Andrea del Sarto, Guido Reni, and more. 

Be sure to stop by Borromini’s Perspective in the courtyard before you leave. This incredible optical illusion dating back to the 17th-century creates a fascinating visual trick, something I had never seen before and a highlight of my visit.

Tickets: Full price tickets are €6 and can be bought online or in person.

Opening Hours: The gallery is open Wednesday through Monday from 8:30 AM – 7:30 PM. There are often special hours for holidays, so make sure to check the official website before your visit. 

Top 10 Things to do in Rome for First-Timers

  1. Colosseum
  2. Roman Forum
  3. Palatine Hill
  4. Vatican City, including Vatican Museums & St. Peter’s Basilica
  5. Borghese Gallery
  6. Capitoline Hill & Museums
  7. Pantheon
  8. Trevi Fountain
  9. Spanish Steps
  10. Piazza Navona

Best Time to visit Rome

Truth be told, Rome is always busy. January and February might be the quietest months, which is great if you don’t mind bundling up!

However, if you’re looking for nice weather and the al fresco dining experience, then spring and fall are the ideal seasons to visit Rome. I particularly love Rome in late October when it’s still warm yet not nearly as crowded as summer.

I’ve also visited in early spring, around the end of March, which is another beautiful time to go without the crowds, though you do risk rainy weather.

Overall, April, May, October, and November are the best months for a trip. Check out my seasonal guide to Rome for more information.

How to Get Around Rome

Rome is a big city, and getting around will require a mix of walking and public transportation. If you’re primarily going to be in the historic center, then you can reach most sites on foot. However, expect a lot of walking.

Depending on the length of your stay in Rome, you can purchase a transportation pass at any metro station. Available options include passes for 24 hours, 48 hours, 72 hours, or a weekly pass. These all give you access to the buses, trams, and the metro system.

Additionally, Rome has a convenient tap-and-go system, allowing you to use your credit card or mobile payment services like Apple Pay for public transportation. This is a good option if you do not have a transport pass.

A single ride, lasting up to 100 minutes, costs €1.50. If you use the metro more than four times, the system automatically charges you for a 24-hour pass at €7.

For taxis, download this taxi app. You can use it all over the city and to pre-book rides to and from the airport. I’ve used it a few times and it works well!

How Many Days in Rome

I recommend spending a minimum of four days in Rome. Though, for me, a week is ideal for a trip to Rome!

With 4 days, you’ll have plenty of time to see all of the highlights, a few hidden gems, and try some amazing restaurants at a more relaxed pace.

Where to Eat in Rome

Roman cuisine might just be my favorite among all regional foods in Italy. Whether it’s the sharp bite of pepper in cacio e pepe, the bold spice of Arrabbiata, or the rich, comforting flavors of carbonara, you simply can’t go wrong with Roman pastas.

Below is a quick guide to some of my favorite restaurants in Rome.

Restaurants
  • Rocco Ristorante: A family-run restaurant with a daily menu based on what’s at the market and in season.
  • La Matriciana: One of my favorite places to eat in Rome. You have to get the Bucatini alla Matriciana. The seasonal dishes and Vitello Tonnato are also devine.
  • Da Gino al Parlamento: A hidden spot in the city center. I loved the Pollo alla Romana (chicken with spicy peppers) and the Penne All’Arrabbiata.
  • Al Pompiere: Love the Tagliolini al Limone and the Tagliolini alla Romana.
  • Piatto Romano: A fantastic restaurant in Testaccio. Order whatever they recommend.
Pizza
Bakery / Cafe
  • Biscottificio Innocenti: A wonderful cookie shop in Trastevere. I always love buying a variety to snack on.
  • Roscioli Cafe: A nice sit-down cafe with a good selection of pastries and drinks.
  • Caffe Peru: A local cafe and bar. Good for coffee and drinks.
Gelato

Come Il Latte: I tried 10 gelato shops in Rome and this one is the best. Worth the trek to get here.

Where to Stay in Rome

I’ve been lucky enough to stay all over Rome. I particularly love staying in the historic center near Piazza Navona or Campo de’ Fiori. The energy here is unlike any other neighborhood and the location is super convenient, with many of the main sights and restaurants within walking distance.

Monti is another great option. It’s a cool, local neighborhood that isn’t overwhelmed by tourists. There are fantastic restaurant options and it feels authentic.

Prati, located near Vatican City, is another neighborhood where I’ve stayed multiple times and only have good things to say about it. It’s often cheaper to stay here than the center and it’s within walking distance to many sights.

Trastevere is arguably the most charming neighborhood in Rome, known for its nightlife and dining scene. The only downside of staying here is that it’s a bit removed from the center and lacks metro access.

Rome Hotel Recommendations

How to Get to Rome

By Train

Already traveling in Italy? The best way to get to Rome is by train. The city’s main station is called Roma Termini. From this station, you can catch the metro or a taxi to your accommodation.

A few train tips:

  • Book your tickets on Trenitalia.com, the official train site.
  • High-speed trains (like Frecciarossa or Italo) should be booked at least three weeks in advance for the best prices.
  • Local trains are more flexible and can typically be purchased on the day of travel for the same price.

Popular train routes:

  • Venice to Rome: ~4-4.5 hours via high-speed train.
  • Milan to Rome: ~3-3.5 hours via high-speed train.
  • Florence to Rome: ~1.5 hours via high-speed train.
  • Naples to Rome: ~1 hour via high-speed train.
  • Bari to Rome: ~ 4 hours via high-speed train

By Plane

Rome has two main airports: Fiumicino (FCO) and Ciampino (CIA). To get from the airport to the city center, you have a few options.

Fiumicino Airport

FCO is Rome’s primary airport, where you’ll likely land if you’re arriving by air.

  • Taxi from FCO: A taxi ride from FCO to Rome’s center takes between 30 minutes to 1.5 hours depending on traffic. As of 2025, there is a €55 flat rate for taxis to the historic center. Do note that rates may vary depending on your exact destination within the city.
  • Train from FCO: The Leonardo Express offers a convenient direct train service from Fiumicino Airport (FCO) to Termini Station. The journey takes just 32 minutes and costs €14 each way. Trains depart every 15 minutes.

Ciampino Airport

  • Taxi from CIA: Taxi to the center of Rome costs around €31 euros from CIA airport to the city center.
  • Bus from CIA: From Ciampino Airport, you can catch an airport bus that departs every 1-2 hours. The journey to the city center takes about 35 minutes. The cost is €6 for a one-way ticket or €11 for a round trip

By Car

Let me be straightforward – do not rent a car in Rome. Although I’ve driven all over Italy, including Sicily, navigating Rome by car is a whole different challenge. The parking situation is chaotic, and the driving behavior is reckless. It often seems as though traffic rules are merely suggestions, plus the roads are narrow.

From personal experience, save yourself the stress and consider renting a car only after you’ve finished exploring Rome.

On one of my trips, we stayed outside the city and attempted to drive into Rome for the day, which I also do not recommend. However, if you do this, you can park at a train station on the outskirts and then either take a bus or local train into the center. This is my best advice if you do have a car.

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ITALY TRAVEL PLANNING GUIDE

Italy Travel Insurance – We always get travel insurance before all of our trips for peace of mind. Check out Travel Insurance Master to find the best plan for you.

Italy Rental Cars – We’ve rented a car in Italy many times, and it’s definitely the most convenient way to get around the countryside. We rented our car through Discover Cars (our go-to rental agency), which helps you find the best rates no matter where you are traveling.

Italy Phone Plans – If your phone plan does not offer free coverage in Italy, then we suggest getting an eSIM. We used Airalo during our trip to Italy, and we had fantastic coverage the entire time. It’s easy to download and you can even top up via the app if needed.

Italy Hotels – Wondering where to book your accommodations for Italy? We’ve been reserving all of our hotels through Booking for years. Their messaging tool makes it easy to communicate with the hotels, and there are endless options to choose from.

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