8 Cool Things To Do In Rome, Italy

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So you want to visit one of the oldest cities in the world — Rome, Italy — for vacation. What will you do? What will you see?

When it comes to history, Rome is hard to beat. It has the oldest museum in the world and is considered the cradle of Christianity. All you need is a cheap flight and you can do as the Romans do!

What To Do In Rome, Italy

Rome is a city rich in history, art, and culture, offering a plethora of activities for visitors. Here are some cool things to do in Rome:

Visit the Colosseum

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Explore this ancient amphitheater, once the epicenter of Roman entertainment.

The Colosseum in Rome, also known as the Flavian Amphitheatre, is nearly 2,000 years old. It was completed in AD 80 by Emperor Titus of the Flavian dynasty.

Tour Vatican City

Photo credit: The Vatican

Visit St. Peter’s Basilica, the Vatican Museums, and the Sistine Chapel for a glimpse of some of the world’s most renowned art and architecture.

Visiting Vatican City, the smallest independent state in the world and home to the Pope, offers a wealth of fascinating experiences. Here are some cool things to do in Vatican City:

St. Peter’s Basilica: Explore the largest church in the world, known for its stunning architecture and art, including Michelangelo’s Pieta and the dome designed by Michelangelo and completed by Giacomo della Porta.
Vatican Museums: Discover one of the greatest art collections in the world, including masterpieces by Michelangelo, Raphael, Leonardo da Vinci, and many others. Don’t miss the famous Sistine Chapel, with its breathtaking ceiling painted by Michelangelo.
St. Peter’s Square: Marvel at the grandeur of this iconic square, designed by Bernini, and take in the view of St. Peter’s Basilica and the Vatican obelisk.
Climb the Dome of St. Peter’s Basilica: For a panoramic view of Vatican City and Rome, climb to the top of the dome. There is an elevator part of the way up, with the option to climb the rest of the way on foot.

Throw a Coin in the Trevi Fountain

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The Trevi Fountain in Rome is one of the most famous and iconic fountains in the world, known for its stunning Baroque architecture and its role in the tradition of tossing a coin into the fountain. The fountain underwent a major restoration project that was completed in 2015, returning it to its former glory and ensuring its preservation for future generations to enjoy.

The fountain was designed by Italian architect Nicola Salvi in the 18th century and features a magnificent Baroque style, characterized by its grandeur and intricate details.

The Trevi Fountain is the largest Baroque fountain in Rome, standing at about 26 meters (85 feet) high and 49 meters (161 feet) wide, making it a breathtaking sight to behold.

The fountain is adorned with several sculptures depicting mythological figures, including Oceanus, the Greek god of the sea, riding a chariot pulled by seahorses and Tritons.

One of the most famous traditions associated with the Trevi Fountain is the act of tossing a coin over your shoulder into the fountain. According to legend, this ensures your return to Rome.

Explore the Roman Forum

Wander through the ruins of ancient Rome, including temples, basilicas, and public spaces. Many significant events in Roman history took place in the Forum, including speeches by famous orators, triumphal processions, and the funeral of Julius Caesar, making it a place of great historical significance.

The Forum is adorned with various sculptures and artworks, including statues of emperors and gods, showcasing the artistic achievements of the Roman Empire.

Visit the Pantheon

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Marvel at this well-preserved ancient Roman temple, known for its impressive dome. The Pantheon is renowned for its architectural design, particularly its large dome with an oculus (circular opening) at the top, which is the building’s only source of natural light. The dome is still the world’s largest unreinforced concrete dome.

Unlike many ancient Roman buildings that fell into disrepair, the Pantheon has been in continuous use throughout its history. It is currently used as a church, known as the Basilica of St. Mary and the Martyrs.

Free Admission: Visitors can enter the Pantheon for free, making it accessible to all and a popular destination for tourists and locals alike.

Stroll through Piazza Navona

Enjoy the lively atmosphere of this beautiful square, lined with cafes, fountains, and Baroque architecture.

At the center of the square stands the Egyptian obelisk, known as the Obelisk of Domitian, which adds to the grandeur of the square and serves as a focal point for visitors.

Piazza Navona is a lively hub with street performers, artists, and musicians, adding to the vibrant atmosphere of the square.

The square is lined with charming outdoor cafes and restaurants, where you can relax and enjoy the view of the fountains and architecture while sipping on a coffee or enjoying a meal.

On weekends, Piazza Navona hosts an art market where local artists display and sell their work, providing a great opportunity to find unique souvenirs.

Piazza Navona stands on the site of the ancient Stadium of Domitian, where ancient Romans once gathered for athletic contests and other events, adding to the square’s historical significance.

Try Authentic Roman Cuisine

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Sample local dishes such as pasta carbonara, cacio e pepe, and supplì (fried rice balls).

Where to Eat in Rome

Trattorias: These are casual, family-run eateries that serve traditional Roman dishes. Look for trattorias that are frequented by locals for an authentic experience.
Pizzerias: Rome is famous for its pizza, particularly thin-crust Roman-style pizza. Look for pizzerias that use high-quality ingredients and wood-fired ovens for the best pizza experience.
Gelaterias: No trip to Rome is complete without sampling some gelato. Look for gelaterias that make their gelato fresh in-house for the best flavors.

Visit the Spanish Steps

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Climb the famous steps for a great view over the city and enjoy the vibrant surrounding area. The Spanish Steps were designed by the architect Francesco de Sanctis and built between 1723 and 1725. The steps consist of 135 steps in a series of terraces, leading from the Piazza di Spagna below to the Trinità dei Monti church at the top.

At the base of the Spanish Steps is the Barcaccia Fountain, or “Fountain of the Ugly Boat,” designed by Pietro Bernini and his son, Gian Lorenzo Bernini. The fountain is shaped like a sinking ship and is a popular spot for tourists to take photos.

From the top of the Spanish Steps, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of Rome, including the Piazza di Spagna below and the surrounding cityscape. It’s a great place to sit and soak in the beauty of the city.

Final Word

Rome is a very romantic city as well, which bodes well for you and a partner. These are just a few of the many amazing things to do in Rome. The city’s rich history and vibrant culture offer something for everyone to enjoy!

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James Johnson

James Johnson is a writer originally from New York City. She has lived in the South for the last 15 years and enjoys Creole cooking and shrimp and grits.