14 Things to Do in Rome: Timings, Attractions And More

Rome is a city that will sweep the ground off your feet with its beauty and aesthetics, where every corner looks like a scene from a movie. Welcome to the city where history comes to life and where pizza tastes better than anywhere else in the world. From strolling through the cobbled streets to trying absolutely delicious Pizzas, there are tons of things to do in Rome, Italy, that you can try on your Europe Trip Packages.

Best Things To do in Rome

Rome, being a beautiful city in Italy, offers plenty of surreal attractions that you should visit on your Europe Trip. Here are some attractions that you cannot miss out on and some things that you should definitely try while you are there:

1. Visit The Colosseum

Your trip to Rome is incomplete if you haven’t visited the Colosseum, which is one of the most spectacular and popular landmarks in the world. The Colosseum is an ancient amphitheatre and was once home to animal hunts, gladiator fights, and public. It is one of the best Rome attractions, that you should definitely check out if you are looking for things to do in Rome in 1 day. The size, the grandeur will leave you speechless, making you feel like you have stepped back in time.

• What to see: Arena floor, Underground Hypogeum, Emperor’s box and Gladiator’s Gate.
• Timings: 8:30 a.m. to one hour before sunset.
• Entry Tickets: INR 1696

2. Explore the Roman Forum

Just a short walk from the Colosseum, the Roman Forum offers a glimpse into what life was like in ancient Rome. Once the center of public life, it was filled with temples, markets, and government buildings. Today, the ruins provide an exciting look at the remains of the Roman Empire, and you can practically feel the ancient history in the air as you stroll through the site.

• What to See: Temples, arches, the Senate House where Roman leaders gathered, the Arch of Titus, etc.
• Timings: Open daily from 8:30 AM to 7:00 PM (last entry at 6:00 PM).
• Entry Tickets: Entrance is included in the combined ticket for the Colosseum.

3. See the Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel

The Vatican Museums are a treasure trove of art, featuring some of the greatest masterpieces ever created. From Renaissance art to classical sculptures, the Vatican is a must-see in Rome for any art lover. The Sistine Chapel, with Michelangelo's famous ceiling, is a highlight that will leave you in awe. Walking through the galleries, you’ll discover works by Raphael, Leonardo da Vinci, and countless other artists who helped shape the art world. It is one of the best things to do in Rome in 2 days, if that’s all the time you have.

• What to See: Michelangelo’s frescoes in the Sistine Chapel, the Raphael Rooms, and the Gallery of Maps.
• Timings: Open from Monday to Saturday, 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM (last entry at 4:00 PM).
• Entry Tickets: The entrance fee is ₹1,530. Booking online in advance is highly recommended.

4. Admire the Pantheon

The Pantheon, one of the best-preserved ancient Roman buildings, is a stunning example of ancient architecture and engineering. Originally built as a temple to the gods, it’s now a church, but it remains a popular attraction for visitors. Its massive dome, with the oculus (hole in the center), is an impressive work of engineering that still functions perfectly today.

• What to See: The Dome and the tombs of notable figures, including the painter Raphael.
• Timings: Open daily from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM.
• Entry Tickets: The entrance fee is ₹450, free on the first Sunday of the month.

Suggested Read: Best Time To Visit Rome

5. Throw a Coin in the Trevi Fountain

The Trevi Fountain is arguably one of the most famous fountains in the world. Legend has it that throwing a coin into the fountain guarantees your return to Rome and after experiencing its beauty, you’ll definitely want to come back. The fountain, adorned with sculptures of Neptune and his chariot, is an absolute must-see in Rome and a great spot for photos. It is one of the best things to do in Rome at night.

• What to See: Baroque fountain, sculptures of Neptune, Triton, and other sea creatures.
• Timings: The Trevi Fountain is open to the public at all hours.
• Entry Tickets: Free to visit, but donations are accepted.

6. Climb the Spanish Steps

The Spanish Steps are a popular spot for both tourists and locals, offering a great place to relax and people-watch. These 135 steps lead up to the Trinità dei Monti church, and from the top, you’ll get a beautiful view of the city. The steps are also surrounded by shops, cafes, and the bustling Piazza di Spagna.

• What to See: The grand staircase, the church at the top, Piazza di Spagna at the base.
• Timings: The Spanish Steps are open to the public at all hours.
• Entry Tickets:: Free to visit.

7. Walk Around Piazza Navona

Piazza Navona is one of the most beautiful squares in Rome, with its Baroque architecture, fountains, and lively atmosphere. It is one of the best things to do in Rome with kids. This charming square is perfect for a leisurely stroll, and it’s also home to some incredible art and architecture. Whether you’re admiring Bernini’s Fountain of the Four Rivers or enjoying a coffee at one of the outdoor cafes, you’ll quickly fall in love with this vibrant spot, which makes walking here one of the top things to do in Rome.

• What to See: The Fountain of the Four Rivers, Sant’Agnese in Agone Church, and street performers.
• Timings: Piazza Navona is open to the public at all hours.
• Entry Tickets: Free to visit.

8. Taste Roman Cuisine

Rome is a paradise for food lovers. From fresh pasta dishes to delicious street food, the city offers some of the best culinary experiences in the world. Whether you’re sitting down for a meal at a local trattoria or grabbing a quick bite at a market, Roman food will leave you craving more.

• Must-try dishes: Cacio e Pepe (pasta with cheese and black pepper), Carbonara (pasta with eggs, cheese, and pancetta), Supplì (fried rice balls filled with mozzarella)
• Timings: Restaurants typically open for lunch from 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM and for dinner from 7:00 PM to 11:00 PM.
• Entry Tickets: Prices vary depending on the restaurant or market.

9. Explore Trastevere

Trastevere is one of Rome’s most charming and bohemian neighborhoods, filled with narrow cobbled streets, colorful buildings, and plenty of places to eat, drink, and shop. It’s the perfect spot for wandering, and the area has a laid-back, local vibe that makes it a great escape from the busier tourist spots. Trastevere offers one of the best things to do in Rome with a local touch.

• What to See: The beautiful Santa Maria in Trastevere church, charming streets, and cozy cafes.
• Timings: Trastevere is a neighborhood and can be explored at any time, free of charge.
• Entry Tickets: Free to explore.

10. Visit the Catacombs

The Catacombs offer a fascinating and eerie look at early Christian Rome. Located underground, these burial sites are where early Christians were laid to rest. They are an important part of Rome’s history, and a visit here will give you a sense of the city’s religious past. These are things to see in Rome for those interested in early Christian history.

• What to See: The Catacombs of San Callisto and San Sebastiano.
• Timings: Open from 9:00 AM to 12:30 PM and 2:30 PM to 5:00 PM, closed on Mondays.
• Entry Tickets: The entrance fee is ₹720.

11. Relax in Villa Borghese Gardens

If you’re looking for a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city, head to the Villa Borghese Gardens. These lush gardens are perfect for a leisurely stroll, a bike ride, or even a boat ride on the small lake. You can also visit the Borghese Gallery to see some incredible art while you’re there.

• What to Do: Rent a bike, row a boat on the lake, or visit the Borghese Gallery
• Timings: The Villa Borghese Gardens are open daily from 6:30 AM to 9:00 PM. The Borghese Gallery is open daily from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM.
• Entry Tickets: The Borghese Gallery requires advance booking for timed entry, with tickets priced at ₹1,350.

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12. Take a Stroll Along the Tiber River

The Tiber River offers a peaceful and scenic way to see Rome from a different angle. Whether you’re walking along the riverbanks or crossing one of the city’s many beautiful bridges, the Tiber provides stunning views of Rome’s landmarks and hidden gems.

The views of the city from the river and the Isola Tiberina, a small island with quaint streets and historic buildings. It’s one of the top things to do in Rome for a peaceful, scenic experience.

• What to See: Quaintt streets and historic buildings.
• Timings: Open to the public at all hours.
• Entry Tickets: Free to visit.

13. Day Trip to Ostia Antica

If you have time for a day trip, consider visiting Ostia Antica, an ancient Roman port city just outside of Rome. The site is full of well-preserved ruins, including temples, baths, and a large theater. It’s a peaceful alternative to the busy tourist attractions in the city center. It’s one of the best things to do in Rome Italy if you want to experience Roman life outside the city.

• What to See: Ancient homes, temples, mosaics, and Ostia Antica Theater.
• Timings: Open daily from 8:30 AM to 7:00 PM (last entry at 6:00 PM).
• Entry Tickets: The entrance fee is ₹900.

14. Visit the Borghese Gallery

Art lovers shouldn’t miss the Borghese Gallery, one of Rome’s top museums. Located in the Villa Borghese, it features works by some of the greatest artists of the Renaissance and Baroque periods, including Caravaggio, Bernini, and Raphael. The Borghese Gallery is among the top things to see in Rome for any art lover.

• What to See: Bernini’s Apollo and Daphne and Caravaggio’s Boy with a Basket of Fruit.
• Timings: Open daily from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM. Advanced booking is required.
• Entry Tickets: The entrance fee is ₹1,350.