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19 best rome tours of 2024: food, the vatican & more.

These top-rated Rome tours are led by experts who bring the city's history to life.

The Best Rome Tours

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Considered one of the world's best places to visit , Rome offers countless things to do and an endless selection of delicious cuisine. But given the overwhelming crowds and restricted access to ancient sites, it can be difficult to fully enjoy all that Italy's capital has to offer on your own. That's where a guided tour can help.

Based on recent traveler reviews and expert opinion, we've selected the best tours in Rome. Whether you're gliding past the Colosseum on a Segway or savoring Italian wine in the countryside, you'll benefit from fun and informative guides leading the way.

Editor’s Pick: What a Life Tours – Skip-the-line Vatican Small Group Tour

Price: Adults from 99 euros (about $108); kids from 94 euros (around $102) Duration: 3 hours

U.S. News independently paid to send Laura Itzkowitz , a freelance journalist based in Rome, on this tour to provide readers with an unbiased, first-hand perspective of what to expect. What a Life Tours – Skip-the-line Vatican Small Group Tour was selected by our team as an Editor’s Pick thanks to its popularity and favorable user reviews.

One of the largest – and most crowded – landmarks in the world, the Vatican Museums actually comprises 26 museums, plus various chapels and galleries, so while it’s a must-see attraction, it can be an overwhelming place to visit. The engaging guide leading this skip-the-line tour brought us straight to the highlights, starting with the Pinecone Courtyard and ending in St. Peter’s Basilica , where she showed us Michelangelo’s Pietà and explained why it’s the only work the artist actually signed.

Along the tour, you’ll see masterpieces from the Vatican Museums’ collection, including the ancient statue of Laocoön and his sons; the Belvedere Torso, which inspired Michelangelo; Greek Cross Hall; and the Round Hall, which contains a monumental bronze statue of Hercules. Other highlights include the Gallery of Candelabra; the Gallery of Tapestries; the Gallery of Maps, where the guide pointed out some fun facts about Italy in the 1600s; and the Sistine Chapel. Talking isn’t allowed in the Sistine Chapel, so the guide explained Michelangelo’s frescoes at the beginning of the tour. Our guide shared a deep knowledge of the artworks, and delivered her commentary with a sense of humor. However, the guide didn’t bring us to the Raphael Rooms; if this is a priority for you, you may want to book a different tour.

Tours generally operate Monday through Saturday; the first tour begins at 9:30 a.m. In addition to its variety of Vatican tours, the company also offers tours of the Colosseum and daylong tours of Rome.

Laura Itzkowitz

Why we love it:

• Groups are capped at 12 or fewer participants. 
• After the tour, stroll down Via della Conciliazione to capture perfectly framed photos of St. Peter’s Basilica.
• For a nice lunch nearby, book a table at Ristorante Arlù, a family-run eatery that’s been open since 1959. If the weather is nice, ask for a table outside on the charming cobblestone street.
• Prati, the neighborhood surrounding the Vatican, is popular for shopping, especially along Via Cola di Rienzo. Stop by il Sellaio di Serafini for a handmade leather bag, or Castroni for espresso and other gourmet foods to bring home.

Check prices & availability on:

Fat Tire Tours Rome – Rome Day Segway Tour

Price: From 73 euros (around $79) Duration: 3 hours

Hop on a Segway to see the Eternal City's many sights. After receiving your helmet and tuning in to a quick training session, you'll receive a headset to follow the lively commentary from the experienced Fat Tire Tours guide. Along the three-hour ride, you'll glide past sights like Trajan's Forum, Capitoline Hill and more. Plus, you'll don a virtual reality headset during your stop outside the Colosseum that reconstructs the famous arena's past grandeur. Travelers appreciate that Segways make getting around and seeing Rome's sights easier and more fun, especially for families with older teens. Reviewers also appreciate the engaging local guides.

Tours run daily at 9:30 a.m. Participants must be at least 16 years old and weigh between 100 and 260 pounds. Pregnant women are not permitted on this tour. The company also leads a night tour, which visits the city's illuminated monuments after sundown, among other outings.

LivItaly Tours – Colosseum Underground Tour with Arena, Palatine Hill & Roman Forum

Price: Adults from 159 euros (around $173); kids from 144 euros (around $156) Duration: 3 hours

Enjoy swift entry to the Colosseum underground and see the arena floor, Palatine Hill and the Roman Forum on this small-group tour. LivItaly leads up to six travelers to the restricted lower level of the Colosseum, where dungeons once confined gladiators and their opponents. In three hours, learn about ancient Rome's social order on Palatine Hill and everyday life at the forum. Travelers, especially those with children, agree that having a passionate guide with a deep knowledge of Roman history enriched the experience. Reviewers also appreciate the small size of the tour group.

Tours depart daily at multiple times beginning at 12:15 p.m. Book the company's 90-minute Express Colosseum Underground & Arena Tour if you're short on time.

The Best Rome Colosseum Tours

Laura Itzkowitz April 17, 2024

TopBike Rental and Tours – Ancient Appian Way, Catacombs and Aqueducts Park

Price: From 65 euros (about $71) to 89 euros (about $97) Duration: 4 or 6 hours

Travelers have been using the Ancient Appian Way for 2,300 years and you'll traverse it with a friendly, knowledgeable local on this electric bike excursion. Along the ride, you'll pass archeological sites, Christian catacombs and picturesque Roman aqueducts framing the unspoiled countryside. The tour covers roughly 17 miles, 60% of which requires off-road cycling, so TopBike recommends this tour for intermediate riders. Some tourgoers say you might not even break a sweat though, thanks to the ease of the electric bikes.

Tourgoers can opt for the Short Tour (four hours) or the Plus Tour (six hours), the latter of which follows the same path as the shorter excursion and also includes a guided tour of the Catacombs of St. Callixtus (or Saint Sebastian) and a stop at the Baths of Caracalla. Exact tour departure times vary by season, but you can expect to start around 9 a.m. TopBike also leads cycling tours within the city center.

Gourmetaly – Campo de' Fiori, Jewish Ghetto and Trastevere Rome Food Tour

Price: Adults from 93 euros (around $101); kids from 65 euros (around $71) Duration: 3.5 hours

Tantalize your taste buds on this Rome food tour, which covers three distinct neighborhoods known for their cuisine. As your local guide leads you through the Jewish ghetto, Campo de' Fiori and Trastevere, you'll stop by top-rated food markets, grocery stores, coffee shops, gelaterias and restaurants. Among the food samples included in the tour are fried artichokes, pizza, mozzarella, fresh pasta and gelato. Tours are capped at 12 participants. Reviewers call this a delightful experience thanks to the informative guides who offer an interesting lesson on Roman history, food and culture. They also recommend taking this tour on your first day in Rome to make the most of the guides' recommendations.

Tours are offered several times each day in the morning and afternoon. Note that the afternoon tour does not visit the Campo de' Fiori market (a highlight for many recent tourgoers). In addition to food tours, Gourmetaly also hosts cooking classes.

Eyes of Rome – Colosseum and Roman Forum Tour

Price: Adults from 453 euros (around $491); kids from 35 euros (around $38) Duration: 3 hours

With your private guide leading the way, you'll visit the Colosseum, explore the ancient city along paths that served the Roman Senate and learn the legends of the House of the Vestal Virgins. Tourgoers value the attentive guides who share history and lore in an entertaining way. They also say the tour is well-paced.

Tickets cover pick up at centrally located hotels and skip-the-line admission. Note that prices can vary significantly depending on the number of people in your party. A couple can expect to pay roughly $500 for tickets. Eyes of Rome also conducts private walking tours of the Vatican.

Private Tours of Rome – Vatican & Sistine Chapel Private Tour

Price: From $364 Duration: 3 hours

One of the best tours of the Vatican , this intimate excursion includes skip-the-line access to the complex and a guide who shares the Vatican Museums' top attractions in just three hours. See the artistic highlights in the   Gallery of Ancient Roman Sculptures, the Gallery of Tapestries and famous Raphael paintings. You'll then experience Michelangelo's masterpieces in the Sistine Chapel. Your guide will ensure you see the Pietà   in St. Peter's Basilica, the Apostolic Palace and the famous balcony where the pope delivers his blessings. Travelers praise the excellent guides who tailor the tour to groups' interests and keep children engaged.

Tours operate Monday through Saturday in the morning and afternoon. Ticket prices vary depending on your itinerary and group size. The company suggests you book at least one month in advance to ensure a specialist authorized by the Vatican is available. Private Tours of Rome also offers tours of the Colosseum and the Borghese Gallery, among others.

Courtesy of Roman Food Tours

The Roman Food Tour – Prati By Sunset

Price: Adults from 99 euro (about $107); kids from 90 euros (about $98) Duration: 4 hours

Devoted foodies skip lunch for the more than 20 food and wine pairings on this four-hour evening tour of some of Rome's top eateries. Throughout the tour, you'll feast on gourmet delights, such as homemade pasta, pizza, fresh cheeses and gelato. More importantly, you'll learn tips to enhance your knowledge and pleasure in Italian cuisine. Travelers praise the expertise of the fun guides who explain each dish's origin and quality with gusto.

Tours, which are offered daily multiple times starting at 3:30 p.m. The Roman Food Tour also offers day tours and cooking classes.

Rex-Tours – Rome City Segway Tour

Price: From 79 euros (about $86) Duration: 3 hours

Roll in comfort past many of ancient Rome's major sights on this three-hour Segway tour. Rex-Tours' expert guides lead up to eight travelers for an effortless overview of must-see landmarks, such as Capitoline Hill and the Colosseum. Reviewers applaud the knowledgeable guides who offer a wealth of information without overwhelming travelers. What's more, guides provide restaurant recommendations and tips for making the most of your visit to Rome, according to tourgoers.

The Rome City Segway Tour departs twice daily at 9:30 a.m. and 3 p.m. Travelers also recommend enjoying the company's evening Segway tour if you're visiting during the summer and need a break from the peak daytime heat.

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Eating Europe – Twilight Trastevere Rome Food Tour

Price: Adults from 114 euros (about $123); kids from 81 euros (about $88) Duration: 4 hours

Travelers suggest you skip lunch before this evening walking tour of Trastevere, so that you can savor the street food and sweet treats served at each stop. As you meander through the neighborhood (often compared to New York City's Greenwich Village), you'll enjoy mouthwatering bites of everything from classic supplì , or fried risotto balls stuffed with mozzarella, to porchetta, homemade pasta and gelato. Foodie guides share each chef's story and culinary traditions, along with tips on how to find and make the best Roman cuisine on your own. Reviewers praise the guides for their insider knowledge and gush about the quality of the food and wine featured on the tour.

Tours run daily at multiple times and there is a maximum of 12 people per tour. Eating Europe also operates a tour that explores Testaccio, considered Rome's "original foodie neighborhood."

Rolling Rome – Rome Squares & Fountains Golf Cart Tour

Price: From 100 euros (about $108) Duration: 3 hours

Avoid Rome's congested traffic and keep the family entertained on this three-hour, private golf cart tour of the city. Whizz past major sights in the historical center and piazzas Venezia, Navona and del Popolo, plus the Spanish Steps, the Trevi Fountain, the Pantheon and more. Since the tour is customizable, you can also ask the guide to take you to lesser-known spots in the city – a highlight for reviewers. Along with the knowledgeable and enthusiastic guides, reviewers appreciate the golf cart's ability to avoid traffic using Rome's narrow back lanes.

Tours, which can accommodate up to seven participants, depart daily at 9:30 a.m. and 3 p.m. One week's advance reservation is recommended. Rolling Rome also offers daylong golf cart tours, as well as a variety of Segway and electric bike tours.

Food Tours of Rome – Jewish Ghetto and Campo de' Fiori by Night Food Tour

Price: Adults from 89 euros (about $96); kids from 75 euros (about $81) Duration: 4 hours

Combine sightseeing with snacking and drinking on this evening tour of the Jewish ghetto and the Campo Marzio area. Fun, knowledgeable guides make seven stops for food and wine between explaining major historic attractions like Piazza Navona and Campo de' Fiori. Stop in delis, family-run shops and restaurants to sample gourmet cheeses and hams, pasta, espresso, and gelato. First-time visitors especially appreciate this informative introduction to the city and the family-run vendors featured on the tour.

Tours depart nightly at 6 p.m. Food Tours of Rome can accommodate some special diets with advance notice. The company also offers a dessert and sightseeing tour of Rome, among various other options.

Rome's Ultimate Free Walking Tour

Price: Free Duration: 2.5 to 3 hours

According to reviewers, this free walking tour is a great way to start your visit in Rome. During the nearly three-hour stroll, you'll visit several photo-worthy piazzas, the Pantheon, Ponte Sant'Angelo and Castel Sant'Angelo, among other sights. Guides, who have backgrounds in subjects like history and architecture, earn praise from reviewers for their entertaining storytelling and thoughtful restaurant and activity recommendations.

Tours, which are limited to 15 participants, operate twice daily at 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. In total, you'll walk less than 2 miles. According to the company, the tour is suitable for travel strollers and wheelchairs. Though the tour is free, it's recommended that you reserve your spot in advance via the company's website (guides do not wait at the departure point unless reservations are booked). At the end of the tour, you can tip your guide based on your experience.

Check availability on:

Courtesy of Secret Food Tours Rome

Secret Food Tours – Rome Food Tour

Price: Adults from 79 euros (about $86); kids from 69 euros (about $75) Duration: 3 to 3.5 hours

Dine your way through the historical center of Rome, visiting cafes, markets and shops for a total of up to seven stops. During the tour, you'll walk through neighborhoods like the Campo de' Fiori and the Jewish quarter with an enthusiastic guide who ties together history and insights about traditional dishes. The focus is on Italian-style dining: savoring the perfect cappuccino, sampling fresh pizzas and homemade pastas, pairing wines with a variety of cheeses, gelato and more. Travelers praise the guides' knowledge of Roman cuisine and the amount and quality of the food.

Tours depart daily at 11 and 11:30 a.m. An additional 5 p.m. tour may be available depending on the day. Private tours are also an option.

The Roman Guy – Privileged Entrance Vatican Tour with Sistine Chapel

Price: Adults from $119; kids from $56 Duration: 3 hours

Hoping to see the Vatican sans enormous crowds? This three-hour tour from The Roman Guy convenes at 7:45 a.m., allowing you to enter the Vatican Museums an hour before they open to the general public. First, relish the tranquil Sistine Chapel, which welcomes upward of 25,000 visitors daily during the summer. Afterward, follow your guide to museum highlights, including Raphael's paintings, the Borgia Apartments and the Gallery of the Maps. Travelers rave about the knowledgeable guides and say the opportunity to see the Sistine Chapel without the crowds is worth the tour price (though reviewers warn that you will still encounter quite a few other tour groups enjoying early access to the site).

Tours are available Monday through Saturday. Groups are capped at 14 people. If you're short on time, consider The Roman Guy's abridged Vatican Highlights tour, which last 2.5 hours.

City Wonders – Tuscan Countryside Day Trip from Rome with 3-Course Lunch & Wine Tasting

Price: Adults from $112; kids from $102 Duration: 12 hours

If you want to visit Tuscany while in Rome, but don't want to drive the approximately 175-mile journey yourself, consider this 12-hour excursion from City Wonders. You'll depart from Rome at 7:30 a.m. via an air-conditioned coach bus to see famous hilltop towns, such as Montepulciano and Pienza. You'll also visit the Renaissance church of St. Biagio before enjoying a three-course lunch and wine pairing in the famed Montalcino. Travelers say guides are informative and thoughtful, giving tourists ample time to explore the towns and take pictures. All agree that leaving the driving to a professional made the trip worthwhile.

Tours are offered daily. City Wonders also offers a variety of tours in Rome, including tours of the Colosseum, the Vatican and the Borghese Gallery.

Through Eternity Tours – Rome in a Day Tour with Colosseum & Sistine Chapel: Essential Experience

Price: From 1,345 euros (about $1,458) Duration: 6 hours

Conquer Rome in six hours with Through Eternity Tours. With your skip-the-line tickets , you'll visit the Colosseum, the Roman Forum and the Vatican Museums, including the Sistine Chapel and St. Peter's Basilica. Professional, engaging guides – all fluent English speakers – allow you to set the pace, absorbing as much history and archeology as you want at each stop. Travelers say you'll see much more on this half-day tour than you would if you were to visit each site on your own, as guides point out unexpected gems along the way.

Rates can vary considerably depending on the number in your party, and the company offers discounts for students and children. Bring stamina, a water bottle and wear comfortable walking shoes . When you're ready for more, try one of Through Eternity's other tours, such as its evening tour of Rome's piazzas and fountains.

Walks of Italy – Gladiator's Gate: Special Access Colosseum Tour with Arena Floor

Price: Adults from $105; kids from $99 Duration: 3 hours

On this three-hour tour, you'll enter the Colosseum through the "Gladiator's Gate" – the entrance that was once used exclusively for gladiators 2,000 years ago. Once inside, you'll enjoy 360-degree views of the Colosseum on the reconstructed arena floor as your guide shares the gory history of this famous landmark . Then, you'll bypass the lines to tour the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill. Highlights include the cremation point of Julius Caesar, senate buildings and the Temple of the Vestal Virgins. Guides win kudos from travelers for their ability to discuss dense history topics in an engaging manner. Reviewers say the tour flies by thanks to the guides' entertaining storytelling. They also appreciate the skip-the-line access to these must-see sights.

Tours, which are capped at 25 participants, are offered three times daily at 9:15 a.m., 10:30 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. Rates may vary based on the time of year, and they include all entrance tickets and the use of audio headsets during the tour. Walks of Italy also hosts cooking classes in Rome and organizes day trips to Pompeii and the Amalfi Coast.

Maya Tours – Skip-the-Line Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel Group Tour

Price: Adults from 45 euros (about $49); kids from 35 euros (about $38) Duration: 2 hours

If you're interested in visiting the Vatican Museums, but don't want to devote more than a couple hours of your Rome vacation to the experience, consider this kid-friendly tour. In addition to skip-the-line access, your guide will show you the must-see artworks, several courtyards and galleries, and the Sistine Chapel. Reviewers praise guides for their interesting and informed commentary (which tourgoers can hear via audio headsets). Parents are particularly impressed with guides' ability to engage children.

Tours are offered Monday through Saturday multiple times in the morning and afternoon. Maya Tours also operates longer, semiprivate tours of the Vatican.

You may also be interested in:

• The Best Hotels in Rome
• The Best Places to Visit in Italy
• The Best Italy Tours + Small-Group Trips
• The Best International Travel Insurance

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The 10 best tours in Rome to book now

From sophisticated wine tasting to food market meandering, make the most of your trip with these rousing tours around Rome

You can flounder with a city map (or multiple tabs on your smartphone) all you want, but everyone knows the best way to see the city is to be shown around by a local. So if you’ve sorted out where to stay in Rome and want to get to know this incredible city, check out our hand-picked selection of the best Rome tours. Whether you’re after seriously stunning (and usually out of bounds) views from the heady heights of attractions like the Colosseum, a very cool day trip , or would rather just eat and drink your way around the culinary capital (we don’t blame you), there’s a tour for you. And you don’t have to waste hours scrolling online, just check out our guide to the best below. You know what they say, when in Rome....

RECOMMENDED: 🏺 The best attractions in Rome 🏛 The best museums in Rome 🛏 The best Airbnbs in Rome 🚃 The best day trips from Rome

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Top tours in Rome

1.  Early Access Vatican Museums Small-Group Tour with St. Peter’s and Sistine Chapel

Avoid the hordes and hordes of camera-wielding Vatican visitors by booking this tour, which gets you a queue jump and access to the UNESCO-listed complex an hour before it opens to the public. The small group means you won’t strain to hear the guide and you’ll have three whole hours to marvel at the Sistine Chapel, Raphael Rooms, and  Michelangelo’s masterpieces.  And no trip to Rome is complete without setting eyes on that lot. 

2.  Borghese Gallery Tour: Feast your eyes on Baroque masterpieces

If classical art is your thing, don’t miss this the beautifully sculpted works of Bernini housed in the Borghese Gallery. As you ogle all that marvelous marble, your guide will be on hand to answer any questions you have about the collection. And listen, they really know their stuff. 

3.  Crypts and Catacombs tours: Visit secret Rome

Swap romantic cobbled streets for macabre skull-lined crypts on this tour of Rome’s ancient catacombs. It’s slightly gruesome, yes but totally fascinating – few of Rome's best tours will give you such an intriguing insight into the city's past.

4.  Rome’s Ghetto and Trastevere tour: Explore medieval and Jewish Rome

Delve into Rome’s Jewish past on this tour that's pretty much perfect for history buffs and culture vultures. As well as wandering around the Jewish Ghetto and Trastevere neighborhoods, you’ll visit the Synagogue and museum, while an art historian or religious expert (or both, if you're lucky!) fills you in on the important stuff. 

5.  Italy in a Glass: a fun wine tour through the city centre

Treat yourself to this booze-based tour, led by a wine-savvy sommelier, who will give you the lowdown on the culture, history and geography behind every bottle before getting down to the exciting part: swilling five varieties of grape. Plus there'll be food pairings to soak up the vino, which you'll probably appreciate when closing time hits. 

6.  Just Gelato: The perfect tour for those with a sweet tooth

If it ain’t broke don’t fix it should be the motto of this family-run  gelateri e, which uses the freshest ingredients to create its homemade gelato. It’s some of the finest you’ll try in the Italian capital and this tour you’ll be treated to a live  demonstration – so you know exactly how it gets from udder to cone. 

7.  Walks of Italy: Tour the Colosseum and Forum

Make your trip to the Colosseum worth the journey it took to find it with this all-encompassing tour, which offers that all important queue jump (believe us, you’ll be thankful you did once you see that snaking line) and access to the third, fourth and fifth tiers of the ancient ruin. Translation: pretty spectacular views of the arena and beyond. 

8.  Market to Table: Join professional chefs for a market tour and cookery class

Foodies, this tour was created just for you. Go for a meander around a local market, where you’ll pick up fresh, seasonal produce before taking it back to the studio, where you’ll join profesh chefs in cooking up a proper Italian-flavoured storm. Bellisimo!

9.  Best of Rome in five hours tour

Don’t you just wish you could squeeze all the best bits of a city into one super tour, that was also super cheap and conveniently quick? Well, you’re in luck as this tour takes you on a five-hour whizz around Rome’s sights: think, Saint Peter's Basilica, the Colosseum and Piazza Navona in the center. Don’t worry about getting tour-hangry, you’ll stop off for culinary treats along the way, too.

10.  City Walk: A small-group tour around the city center

Gape at the flocks of starlings circling the sky from the Spanish Steps and wander through cobbled streets to the stunning Trevi Fountain. This evening stroll brings Rome’s romantic side to life and there will be plenty of photo ops to capture it. 

Check out Rome’s top ’hoods

Where to stay in Rome

We’ve broken down the city’s five best neighbourhoods — including a favorite Bohemian ‘hood and the up-and-coming area considered to be Rome’s answer to Brooklyn.

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Rome Tours & Trips

Find the right tour for you through Rome. We've got 1181 adventures going to Rome, starting from just 2 days in length, and the longest tour is 61 days. The most popular month to go is September, which has the largest number of tour departures.

250+ Rome tour packages with 19,804 reviews

• In-depth Cultural
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The Best of Rome

i had fun. enjoyed meeting everyone!

• €100 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

• Sightseeing

Rome City Break - 3 Days/2 Nights

She was personable, knowledgeable, above-and-beyond helpful, responsive, and was absolutely instrumental in making my Italian vacation as great as it was.

The Italian Dream

The tour moved at a very fast pace, seeing as many sights possible in a short time, lots of free time to explore.

Classical Italy

The trip was so easy and enjoyable. Very stress free.

Discover Italy end Milan

Really picked a great time to see , temperature was perfect

Italy City Break - 5 Days

I enjoyed the cities we visited, the guides and the overall experience. The food was great.

UNESCO Jewels: Best of Italy - Rome, Florence, Venice in 5 days

The five-day UNESCO Jewels tour was great! We saw a lot at a fast pace, and the free time was just the right amount.

UNESCO Jewels: Best of Italy - Rome, Florence, Venice in 8 days

I absolutely loved Sabrina and how informative and helpful she was.

Deluxe Italian Escape with picturesque Cinque Terre

The tour operator responded very quickly and took care of multiple requests for last minute changes.

Italian Holiday (7 Days)

Excellent tour. Amazing food and experiences.

Italian Discovery

Amazing sites, beautiful scenery, fantastic group, the food and hotels were superb!

• Train & Rail

Highlights of Italy

Enjoyed the spectacle of grand piazza's, canals and inviting shops of amazing masks and general festive atmosphere.

4 Days UMBRIA TOUR - from Rome

Sorrento, Pompei, Amalfi and Positano: 4 days escape from Rome

Great way to see a lot over a short period of time. We did this in Sorrento and really got a lot more understanding of the area.

• 10% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

The Tuscan Dream

What people love about rome tours.

The Best of Rome tour was the perfect snapshot of all the culturally important parts of Rome. Unfortunately, due to a late cancellation the tour company couldn't book a fully guided tour but they were able to help me book a self-guided tour and make last minute arrangements for accommodations. I would highly recommend booking with them again!

((REVIEW IS FOR VENICE CITY BREAK, WHICH WAS NOT LISTED AS AN OPTION)) I (32 year old solo male traveler from NJ, USA, attorney by trade) had the distinct pleasure of dealing with Veronica from Italy on a Budget when I travelled to Italy this past July/August 2021. She was personable, knowledgeable, above-and-beyond helpful, responsive, and was absolutely instrumental in making my Italian vacation as great as it was. Before my trip, she helped as I had to reshuffle my plans due to my changing personal calendar as well as the effect of Covid on travel, and she patiently answered all of my questions over the phone and via chat in a straightforward manner. I also had various specific requests of how I wanted my trip to be personalized (adding certain activities to the itinerary, adding a day, upgrading my hostel stay), and she was able to complete every one. While in Italy, she kept in contact with me to ensure that I was happy with the trip, and she even provided helpful tips when I independently travelled to other parts of Italy outside of my Italy on a Budget itinerary. She deserves a 12/10. I cannot recommend her highly enough.

Tour really amizing, the driver and tour guid, food and location was very good, but a first day and last day hotel accomodation is not good very small shower, the bed is like rocking, the last tour scheduled from vasilica to collesium there no travelling car and is not good for us to take a taxi by our own and some a taxi driver is not honest.

Top operators

"Mi esposo y Yo estuvimos muyyy bien los 8 días del tour en Suiza. Paula, nuestra guía, fue muy amable y dedicada al grupo, siempre ayudando y apoyando al grupo. Los destinos muy bonitos. algún hotel mejor ubicado que otro, pero en general , hoteles nuevos y muy limpios. Lo mejor la gente, todo el grupo era una piña, siempre puntual, y muy divertida. Nos llevamos una buena impresión de la organización y del tour, no los olvidaremos a cada uno.

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"Enjoyed each of the destinations. The organised activities were excellent, in particular the wine tasting and olive oil tasting. The local guides were very good. The standard of accommodation was reasonable. The 3 hour wait for transfer at Naples could have been better organised either as a shorter wait or have baggage storage included to allow for a short visit to the city centre.

Intrepid Travel is an expert in:

• Hiking & Trekking

"Our departure flights were completely botched and Wingbuddy did not provide the best alternative flights for the customer, instead re-routed our travel to Italy through the US adding an extra flight and decreasing our time in Venice by over 4 hours. A tour rep did not greet us at the airport in Venice and we had to take a taxi to our hotel on our own. All hotels in the package were not in good locations for exploring the cities on our own, and did not meet our expectations of the star rating provided for each hotel. except the hotel in Sorrento (Michelangelo). We would not recommend Wingbuddy based on our experience with your customer service before and during the trip and the overal quality of the hotels/meals included.

Wingbuddy is an expert in:

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Top Tours in Rome, Italy

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• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Skip-the-Line Group Tour of the Vatican, Sistine Chapel & St. Peter's Basilica

2. Colosseum Arena Floor & Ancient Rome | Semi Private Max 6 People

3. Skip-the-Line Vatican, Sistine Chapel & St. Peter's | Small Group

4. Colosseum & Ancient Rome Tour with Roman Forum & Palatine Hill

5. Colosseum Tour with Arena Area and Ancient Rome

6. Colosseum Arena Floor, Roman Forum and Palatine Hill Guided Tour

7. Rome Twilight Trastevere Food Tour

8. Pompeii, Amalfi Coast and Positano Day Trip from Rome

9. Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel Skip the Line & Basilica Tour

10. 4 Hour Private Rome Catacombs and off the Beaten Track Experience

11. Rome: Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill Guided Tour

12. Rome: Skip the Line Vatican, Sistine Chapel, St Peter 6 PAX Group

13. Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel & St Peter’s Basilica Guided Tour

14. Skip the Line: Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel with St. Peter's Basilica Access

15. 3 in 1 Cooking Class near Navona: Fettuccine, Ravioli & Tiramisu

16. Tuscany Region Day Trip from Rome with Lunch & Wine Tasting

17. The Roman Food Tour in Trastevere with Free-Flowing Fine Wine

18. Discover the Eternal City's: Unforgettable Walking Tour of Rome

19. Rome: Guided Group Tour of Colosseum, Roman Forum & Palatine Hill

20. Expert Guided Tour of Colosseum Underground OR Arena and Forum

21. Colosseum, Palatine Hill and Roman Forum Guided Tour

22. Complete Vatican (Museums, Sistine Chapel, Basilica) - Max 10ppl

23. Rome in a Day Tour with Vatican, Colosseum & Historic Center

24. Skip the Line: Vatican Museum, Sistine Chapel & Raphael Rooms + Basilica Access

25. Skip the Line Vatican, Sistine Chapel, Basilica & Papal Tomb Tour

26. Rome to Pompeii Guided Tour with Wine & Lunch by High Speed Train

27. Rome: Colosseum, Roman Forum & Palatine Hill Experience

28. Rome: Early Morning Vatican Small Group Tour of 6 PAX or Private

29. VIP, Small-Group Colosseum and Ancient City Tour

30. Pompeii Day Trip from Rome with Mount Vesuvius or Positano Option

What travellers are saying.

• Nick R 1 contribution 0 5.0 of 5 bubbles Great day at the Vatican Carl was by far the best tour guide I’ve ever had. He was informative, funny, articulate and engaging. Nothing but an amazing review for him. Read more Review of: Skip-the-Line Group Tour of the Vatican, Sistine Chapel & St. Peter's Basilica Written 4 June 2024 This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.

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19 Best Tours in Rome

By Maresa Manara and Erica Firpo

Vacation tours can be a divisive topic, particularly for people who feel passionately about exploring a city independently. But the truth of the matter is that exploring it with a local by your side will bring you to parts of it you might never find on your own. And no locals have as many stories to tell their city as the Romans. You'll find the most intellectual and personable tour guides to take you around vineyards, through olive groves, on vespa rides, through film studios, food markets, cemeteries, medieval churches, and the most iconic ancient sites. Without further delay, these are our picks for the very best Rome tours.

Click the link to read our complete Rome travel guide.

City Wonders: Ostia Antica Half-Day Tour from Rome Arrow

Ostia Antica is a historic seaside village an hour from Rome and these half-day tours of the coastal archaeological site are well-planned. Groups visit Ostia’s amphitheater, temples, historic baths, and ancient market. Guides seem to have real passion for the subject, talking visitors through the entire tour, peppering their commentary with anecdotes and fun facts. This is a slam-dunk for true history buffs who want to get deeper into the greater Rome area.

Elizabeth Lev: Rome's Historical Center, An All-You-Can-See Smorgasbord of Art Arrow

Elizabeth Lev is something else. Rome is her city, and this tour is her work of art. She has an incredible way of engaging with the history, the art, the monuments, and the stories. You'll find yourself wanting to spend all your time with her. The tour explores the ancient, medieval, Renaissance, and Baroque art periods; and it visits sites like 13th century frescos above the church of Santa Cecilia and art collections behind the facades of the Spada palace. You'll be wowed by all of the layers of the city and how it feels like Rome has been hitting a string of never-ending home runs since antiquity.

Elizabeth Lev: Borrowed but Never Baroque, Bernini & 17th Century Rome Arrow

This tour of Elizabeth Lev's meets up outside the beautiful Piazza della Repubblica . Our group was tiny, but Liz will accommodate larger private groups. She is both an incredible academic brain and a witty storyteller. And her tour shows of the dramatic  range of Baroque art and architecture within Rome. This tour is great for anyone who wants a deep dive into the city's Baroque history, and anyone who wants to appreciate Rome in an experience that's not quite in the guide books.

LivItaly Tours: Vespa Sidecar Tour Arrow

The Vespa Sidecar tour is entirely private and can be customized for return visitors who may have already seen the highlights. It is not, though, a show-up-when-you-want activity. It can be organized for up to six participants, but you'll only be in a group if you choose to be. My tour was perfect because it was just me and the driver/guide Luca.  As a licensed guide, he knows his history, is easy to understand, and is very friendly. He always has a plan, but is quick to change it at the first request. We talked Rome and food and went to all the right places, from big names to more under the radar finds. 

Jessica Puckett

Matt Ortile

Olivia Morelli

Alex Van Buren

Rome 500 Experience: The 7 Hidden Gems of Rome Tour in an Antique FIAT 500 Arrow

There's a lot of reasons to sign up for this tour through greater Rome, not least is that you get to drive yourself with the top down in a vintage Fiat 500. Another nice perk: Rome's traffic is seriously easier to deal with when traveling in convoy (the group can have up to 50 cars in it). And, as you will get your own car to drive, it can feel like a private tour, although groups are also organized by language, so communication shouldn't be a problem for anyone.  But most importantly, you just look so much better behind the wheel of a classic Italian car.

Top Bike Rental & Tours: Ancient Appian Way, Catacombs, and Aqueducts Park Tour Arrow

This tour will take the better part of your day (it's six hours start to finish). But going by bike to these outer city sites —the old Appian Way via the ancient aqueduct—is the easiest and most entertaining way to see them. Plus you won't want to cut out early: it ends with wine and some nibbles in Caffarella Park, which is so expansive it feels like you're in the countryside even though it's smack in the middle of the greater city. Bikes feel brand new and the confidence of the tour guides will put any nervous riders at ease.

Rome Tram Tracks Tour Arrow

This tour is a rocking dance  party on a vintage tram that rumbles through Rome. It lasts two hours, during which you'll cut up the dance floor, drink, and cheer as you roll past some of Rome's most iconic sites . This is really an evening activity for those who don't just want to go get dinner somewhere in town. The greatest part, however, may have been how the senior citizens on our ride managed to upstage all the thirty- and forty-year olds on the dance floor.

Casa Mia Tours: Rome Cinema & Food Arrow

Rome has a rich history of cinema, and while you could take any tour with any guide, there is nothing quite like seeing its cinematic history with Eleonora Baldwin, Cinecittà Studios veteran and granddaughter of famed director Vittorio de Sica, four-time Academy Award winner and father of Italian cinema. This tour is both Rome's history and Eleonora's story, and she is so passionate that it will make you want to spend all day with her, and all night watching films. There are only three requirements—a pair of comfy shoes, an empty stomach, and a reservation.

Non-Catholic Cemetery Tour Arrow

You should always visit the truly Roman neighborhood of Testaccio when in Rome, but this tour of its historic non-Catholic Cemetery gives you reason to stay in the area after you've hit its prime trattorias. It's a beautiful, unusually tranquil space, filled with bougainvillea and museum-worthy sculptures in the middle of the city. The informative guides will school you on the cemetery's 400-year history as you amble past the tombstones of Keats, Percy Shelly, and other famous expats.

Context Travel: Fall and Rise of Rome Arrow

This historical tour starts at a medieval church in San Clemente and ends at the church of SS. Giovanni e Paolo. Its chronology spans from the Roman Empire's fall to the Renaissance's beginnings. The guide Philip was total pro. He's an archaeologist with a great sense of humor and passion for every site. He knew exactly what to show me and could even point out where to stand so I had the best understanding of the sights. People who enjoy Roman, religious, and art histories will  love this tour. It's also a great opportunity for people who have already seen the main tourist attractions to see some gems off the beaten path.

The Roman Guy: Cocktail Bars in Rome, Evening Walking Tour Arrow

This English-speaking tour will take you to some of Rome's most popular bars, including Trastevere's Freni e Frizioni , with stop offs to major attractions along the way. Plus, company founders Sean and Brandon are always quick to offer tips on the best spots for gelato or pizza in the city as you pass by for that next negroni. It’s actually a fantastic way to experience life in Rome with locals—far more relaxing that spending time trying to avoid tourist traps. 

Katie Parla: Vineyard Visit to Cantina Ribelà Arrow

Sommelier Maurizio di Franco meets you at your hotel and accompanies you via hired car to Cantina Ribelà while enchanting you with a bit of Lazio history and winemaking background on Ribelà. Maurizio is a certificated sommelier, and it doesn't hurt that he's also super charming. His love of wine is contagious, he tells great stories, and his patience is wonderful. At the winery you'll be struck be the natural beauty of the landscape, close as it is to a city as big as Rome. 

LivItaly Tours: Virtual Reality Tour of the Colosseum and Domus Aurea Arrow

Imagine if you could physically see the sites, monuments, and reference points that tour guides bring up when ushering you around a city as ancient as Rome. This virtual reality tour lets you, by creating enhanced versions of the way the Eternal City appeared during the days of the empire, all visible through the glasses you'll wear as you make your way through the Roman Forum and Colosseum .

Vatican Museums: “Out of Hours” Guided Tour, Good Morning Vatican Museums Arrow

There is nothing like opening the doors to an empty Sistine Chapel . The exclusive private Out of Hours Good Morning Vatican tour must be booked months in advance and is subject to permission of the Vatican. You will be greeted by Vatican personnel and escorted through the complex by the Clavigero, holder of the 300 keys of the Vatican Museums. This is a once-in-a-lifetime experience and it does begin quite early in the morning. At 6 a.m. you and no more than 19 others will accompany the Clavigero to open the doors of the Vatican Museums.  

Johnny Madge: Olive Oil Tours Arrow

You'll have to trek well outside the city (close to an hour) to reach the olive groves in the Sabina country, but it's well worth the trip. Johnny Madge is an olive oil authority , judging competitions all over the world and this is his backyard. He clearly loves it, and that love is contagious. Tourees will learn to distinguish extra virgin olive oil from everything else and importantly that you do not drizzle oil on your food. You pour it. This  is best for foodies who want to get out of the city and deep dive in Roman food. 

Le Domus Romane di Palazzo Valentini: Multimedia Tour Arrow

The Domus Romane are ancient Roman villas and other structures, abandoned in antiquity, filled in with debris, and inadvertently used as foundations for Palazzo Valentini, a Renaissance palace turned government office building. They are now underground, obscured by buildings and pavement just beside Piazza Venezia. On this tour, in situ multimedia renderings recreate an Imperial Rome domus, as well as some aspects of Roman life. The guides are actual archaeologists, and the fact-checked audio is delivered cleanly. These language-specific multimedia tours are popular though, and must be booked in advance.

Tavole Romane Food Tours: The Rome Food Walking Tour Arrow

Think of Tavole Romane, the food-and-wine-focused walking tour of Rome, as getting access to the little black book of those who know the city's food scene best. Owners Gabriele and Silvia customize the tours based on the interests of each intimate group, which could mean wine bars in Trastevere or an aperitivo-heavy hop through the centro storico, led by somms, chefs, or another tapped in member of Rome's food scene.

Latteria Studio: Market to Table Arrow

This market tour and cooking class began with a wonderful walk through the market to Latteria Studios, a functional cooking studio and photo set. Alice, Rachel, and Carla, who head up the activities, are real professionals. They know everyone at the market, and they know all about food. Sitting at the table at the end of day fosters a real sense of community with what may have been a group of strangers from different countries and continents. You'll immerse yourself in Rome and make new friends at the same time. 

Cinecittà Studios: VIP Tour Arrow

This is your chance to see the studio that was once home to Fellini and Leone. It's still a working studio though, so you'll need to follow the guide's itinerary to the letter. She will know about Cinecittà though: its history, and its film productions, and its famous alumni. Also, Cinecittà owns every set that was built on the lot. Master artisans created them all—ancient Rome, a 1940s submarine, and fantastical, imagined worlds. They perfectly accurate to their settings, as well as pristinely preserved.

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Italy Travel Experts Tours and Vacations

The Best Colosseum Tours To Take in 2024 and Why + Map

The Roman Guy Last Updated: January 8, 2024

At almost 164 feet tall, the Colosseum is even more impressive in person. Beginning in A.D. 72, it took 10 years and 60,000 slaves to construct the largest amphitheater in the world. It’s no wonder every traveler to Rome wants to visit it! But with so many types of tickets, tours, and experiences, how do you choose which Colosseum tour is right for you? Read on to find out.

Pro Tip:  Planning your visit to the Colosseum? Bookmark this post in your browser so you can easily find it when you need it. See our Colosseum guide for more planning resources, our  top-rated Colosseum tours  for a memorable trip, and  what to see at the Colosseum .

Our 7 Best Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill Tours

We offer many different Colosseum tours with unique experiences and exclusive access. Whether you’re looking to experience the Colosseum as a gladiator on the arena floor or an elite Roman spectator looking down on the brutal games, there’s something for every visitor of this monumental wonder.

Here are the current tours we offer at the Colosseum, followed by detailed descriptions:

• Special Access Colosseum Arena Floor Tour Through the Gladiator’s Gate
• Rome in a Day Tour Including the Colosseum and Vatican Museums
• Privileged Entrance Colosseum Tour with Roman Forum & Palatine Hill
• Colosseum Underground Tour with Roman Forum and Palatine Hill
• VIP Colosseum at Night Tour with Underground and Arena Floor
• Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Vatican Highlights Combo Tour
• Ancient Rome Tour with Colosseum Arena Floor & Catacombs

Not ready to book a tour? See if a Colosseum tour is worth it .

1. Special Access Colosseum Arena Floor Tour Through the Gladiator’s Gate

Standing on the Arena Floor, let your eyes wander upwards and imagine 60,000 cheering spectators waiting in anticipation for you—their favorite gladiator—to best the challenger in battle. If this sounds like it belongs on your bucket list, you’re in luck.

In the 1990s, a portion of the Arena Floor was reconstructed, making it easier for modern-day visitors to see what the Colosseum looked like in its heyday. This is where Roman gladiators and animals fought—sometimes to the death!

Only a limited number of people with a special Arena Floor reservation are allowed to access this area, so it’s worth planning in advance. Otherwise, you’ll look down on this area wondering how you could have gained access to this unique perspective of the Colosseum. This Arena Floor tour is ideal for anyone looking to get the most out of their visit to the Colosseum.

Highlights:

• Escape the crowds
• Walk out onto the reconstructed Arena Floor in the heart of the Colosseum
• Julius Caesar’s Temple
• Senate House
• Arch of Titus
• Arch of Constantine
• Basilica of Antoninus and Faustina

Not ready to book a tour? Find out why a Colosseum tour is worth it .

2. Rome in a Day Tour with Colosseum and Vatican Museums

Though we recommend travelers spend several days in Rome to explore the many site in the Eternal City, we understand that sometimes your visit to Rome will only last a day or two. That’s why we designed a tour to help you see the best of Rome quickly.

We recommend this top-selling  Rome in a Day Tour  for anyone who is in Rome for a short time, as it includes skip-the-line Vatican and Colosseum experiences. You’ll also see top monuments in Rome such as Trevi Fountain, the Pantheon, Piazza Navona, and the Roman Forum. You’ll be amazed at just how much of Rome you can see in a day!

• 90 minutes at the Vatican and St. Peter’s Basilica
• 1 hour inside the Colosseum
• Walking tour of downtown Rome
• Trevi Fountain, Piazza Navona, Pantheon, and more

Not ready to book a tour? Find out if Rome tours are worth it .

3. Privileged Entrance Colosseum Tour With Roman Forum and Palatine Hill

Looking for a Colosseum tour that just explores the outer rings and the second floor in addition to the Roman Forum? And at a great price? This Colosseum tour gets you into the Colosseum quickly and takes you to some awesome viewpoints inside the Colosseum. In addition, you’ll explore the Roman Forum where the wealthy Romans lived in ancient days hearing stories from your storytelling guide.

• Visit the Colosseum’s first and second tiers
• Visit Palatine Hill and the ancient Roman Forum

Not ready to book a tour? Check out our  Colosseum Guide for more info.

4. Colosseum Underground Tour with Roman Forum and Palatine Hill

The Underground of the Colosseum is in high demand with limited ticket availability, which means this tour often sells out during the busy season. So, make sure you book well in advance.

Not only do you gain exclusive access to the Underground, but you’ll also get the opportunity to walk out on the re-created Arena Floor where the gladiatorial matches took place. You’ll gaze upwards and imagine the roar of the spectators who came to watch the most exciting games of their era.

This tour also includes a visit to the amazing Roman Forum which helps visitors imagine what life was really like in ancient Rome. The Colosseum Underground Tour  is a behind-the-scenes, full-package kind of tour for people who want to feel like VIPs on vacation.

• Go underground to the dungeons with an expert guide
• Walk onto the reconstructed Arena Floor where the brutal games took place
• Visit the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill

5. VIP Colosseum at Night Tour with Underground and Arena Floor

Want an experience even more exclusive than our daytime Underground tour? Well, you’re in luck! Our  Colosseum Night Tour  is one of the most exclusive experiences you can get in Rome. Again, since the Underground is so exclusive, tickets sell out extremely fast, so plan ahead!

Experience the Colosseum Arena Floor and Underground under the moonlight with almost no crowds since most people visit the Colosseum during the day. You’ll avoid the crowds and the heat as you explore popular areas of the Colosseum.

And of course, you’ll have a chance to see one of Rome’s most beautiful photo spots over the scene of ancient Rome as you admire the Roman Forum from above, all lit up at night.

• Walk along the Roman Forum
• Exclusive vibes with almost no one else in the Colosseum
• Explore the Colosseum’s Underground with an expert, English-speaking guide
• Walk onto the Arena Floor

6. Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Vatican Highlights Combo Tour

Just want a tour of the Vatican and the Colosseum? This combo tour gets you more bang for your buck by combining them! You’ll enjoy skip-the-line entry at both the Colosseum and the Vatican.

First, dive into ancient Roman history at the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill where you’ll walk in the steps of gladiators and emperors. After lunch, rejoin the tour at the Vatican to hear stories of papal intrigue and see some of the world’s most celebrated artworks by masters like Raphael and Michelangelo, and of course, the Sistine Chapel.

• 8.5 hours (with lunch break)
• Skip-the-line entry to the Colosseum
• Colosseum tour with first and second tier access
• Guided tour of the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill
• Skip-the-line entry to the Vatican
• Sistine Chapel and St. Peter’s Basilica

Not ready to book a tour? Find out how to visit the Colosseum .

7. Ancient Rome Tour with Colosseum and Arena Floor & Catacombs

For a deeper dive into Rome’s most ancient sites, book this tour. With transportation include, this tour makes it easy for you to go beyond the city to explore the Rome Catacombs and Capuchin Crypts. You’ll head underground and hear stories of the thousands of friars buried there that will make for great stories to tell your friends back home.

What else do you get? A tour of the mighty Colosseum, including the Arena Floor where gladiators once fought. You’ll feel like a celebrity as your guide leads you into the amphitheater in a way most tourists don’t get to do. After a day exploring ancient Rome, you’ll be impressed at the legacy the Roman Empire left behind.

• 8 hours (with lunch break)
• Colosseum tour with first and second-tier access
• Transportation to the Rome Catacombs
• Guided tour of the catacombs and crypts

Not ready to book a tour? Find out if a Rome Catacombs tour is worth it .

Colosseum Opening Hours

• January 2nd to February 15th: 8:30 am – 4.30 pm, Last entrance 3:30 pm
• February 16th to March 15th: 8:30 am – 5 pm, Last entrance 4 pm
• March 16th to last Saturday of March: 8:30 – 5:30 pm, Last entrance 4:30 pm
• Last Sunday of March to August 31st: 8:30 am – 7:15 pm, Last entrance 6:15 pm
• September 1st to September 30th: 8:30 am – 7 pm, Last entrance 6 pm
• October 1st to Last Saturday of October: 8:30 am – 6.30 pm, Last entrance 5:30 pm
• Last Sunday of October to December 31st: 8:30 am – 4:30 pm, Last entrance 3:30 pm
• Colosseum CLOSED: January 1st, May 1st and December 25th

Ticket office: Closes one hour before closing time

Tips for Visiting the Colosseum

• Wear comfortable shoes! Not only will you walk during the tour but the ground outside the Colosseum is made of large and small cobblestones which can be slippery or uneven.
• Always keep an eye on your belongings. It’s a crowded area with people who may want to take advantage of distracted tourists.
• Water is important. Bring a reusable bottle and fill it up with the helpful free fountains around the Colosseum, the Roman Forum, and the rest of the city.
• Address:  Piazza del Colosseo
• Metro B – Colosseo stop
• Bus: Line 75; 81; 673; 175; 204
• Tram: Line 3

Where To Stay in Rome

Rome has a rich cultural history and many iconic landmarks to explore. Plan where to stay in the magnificent Eternal City in the best neighborhoods.

Here’s Where To Stay in Italy’s Most Popular Destinations

Rome , Florence , Venice , Amalfi Coast , and Capri

Best Hotels & Where to Stay

Reader Interactions

Comments (12).

March 23, 2019

Where do you meet?

March 25, 2019

Ciao Glenda! Thanks for reading our blog. For all of our Colosseum tours, they meet right outside of the Colosseo metro stop. More detailed information can be found upon booking. Hope this helps!

August 8, 2019

My wife is claustrophobic – what areas of the tour would you recommend to stay away from – e.g. underground?

Ciao Wally! The Colosseum Underground might not be the best option for you guys. I recommend the Colosseum Arena Floor tour , this way you’re only in wide-open spaces.

August 12, 2019

Thanks Kayla. If we were to book 3 underground tours, is the Underground portion first, last or in between? We thought we could let my wife skip the Underground portion, but meet us for the rest of the tour. Is this even possible to coordinate?

Ciao Wally! Depends which tour you’d like to do. Our Colosseum Underground, Underground + Top Levels, and Night Tour all visit the Colosseum Underground. I recommend calling our travel experts to coordinate the best experience for you and your group! You can reach them at 888-290-5595.

August 29, 2019

I am planning an analog photography trip to Rome/Italy in October. My daughter, who currently lives in Rome, says that they pass bags through an x-ray scanner when you visit museums. Since I will be carrying film and a film camera, I would like to know whether they will hand check my film and camera instead of sending it through the scanner if I request it.

X-rays will damage film, especially if it is is done repeatedly. I am buying all my film in Italy and developing it there specifically to avoid having to have it x-rayed at airports.

August 30, 2019

Hi Dave! Thanks for reading our blog. I can’t say that we have a definite answer on this one. You can definitely ask them to hand check your bags, but we guarantee that they will. We recommend using a digital camera to take pictures inside of the Colosseum to avoid this issue. Hope this helps!

August 31, 2019

Thanks for your reply. I will be carrying a film camera, not digital. I have decided to carry limited film with me on each day’s excursion and log how many times each film is x-rayed so I can keep the x-ray passes to a minimum which will hopefully not be enough to damage the film. I will be buying and developing the film in Italy, so it will not be exposed to x-rays by the airlines.

September 4, 2019

Ciao Dave! Sounds like a good plan. Always good to be prepared before your trip to Rome!

September 11, 2019

We are going to be in Rome on November 7th and thinking of taking the VIP night tour. What time does this tour start and end?

September 12, 2019

Ciao Paul! We would be more than happy to get you all set up. You can contact our travel experts who will help you book your tour at 888-290-5595.

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Find tours, compare prices and book your ideal Roman experience. Incredible activities, once in a lifetime tours and exclusive tickets are waiting for you in the Rome.tours marketplace. We work with the best tour operators in Rome, to help you find and book amazing tickets, tours, activities, and unique experiences.

What are the Top Tours in Rome?

• Colosseum and Ancient Rome Tour
• Skip the Line Colosseum Tour
• Priority Access Colosseum Underground Tour
• Small Group Ancient Rome Tour

Which are the Top Attractions to see in Rome?

• The Vatican Museum
• Roman Forum and Palatine Hill
• The Pantheon

What are the must-do things on my first trip to Rome?

• Visit the Vatican Museum
• Visit the Colosseum
• Visit the Pantheon
• Visit the Trevi Fountain

What are the best things to do with kids in Rome?

• Priority Access Colosseum Tour
• Small Group Colosseum and Ancient Rome Tour
• Roman Forum & Trajan’s Market Tour

What are the Top Museums and Exhibitions to Visit in Rome?

• Vatican Museum
• The Colosseum and Roman Forum
• The Capitoline Museums
• The Borghese Gallery

Best Time to visit Rome?

The best time to visit Rome is during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October) months. During these times, the weather is generally pleasant with mild temperatures, making it ideal for exploring the city's outdoor attractions and landmarks.

Where should I stay in Rome?

Choosing where to stay in Rome depends on your preferences, budget, and what you plan to see and do during your visit. Here are some popular areas to consider:

• Historic Center (Centro Storico)
• Piazza di Spagna
• Piazza Barberini

How long should I visit Rome for?

A visit to Rome can be enjoyable for around 3 to 5 days. This gives you enough time to explore the city's main attractions, such as the Colosseum, Vatican City, and Trevi Fountain. This will also give you some time to enjoy a food tour and allow you to explore the city centre with a guided walking tour. With a few days, you can experience the essence of Rome without feeling rushed, making it a memorable and fulfilling trip.

What’s the best way to explore Rome?

The best way to explore Rome is on foot or using public transportation like buses and the metro. Walking lets you discover hidden gems and enjoy the city's atmosphere, while buses and the metro are convenient for longer distances. Joining  guided tours will give you further insights into Rome's history and culture. Remember to wear comfortable shoes, carry a map or use a navigation app.

What are some unique sights in Rome?

Rome has so many unique sights, but here are a few. One sight is the Bocca della Verità, a famous ancient sculpture. Another unique sight is the Keyhole at the Knights of Malta. This is an interesting spot offering a picturesque view of St. Peter's Basilica through a keyhole.

What are the must-do things on my trip to Rome?

Must-do things in Rome include visiting the Colosseum, exploring Vatican City and St. Peter's Basilica. Tossing a coin into the Trevi Fountain and enjoying a slice of pizza and ice cream (gelato).

What food is Rome known for?

Rome is known for its delicious Italian cuisine, including pasta dishes like carbonara and amatriciana, thin-crust Roman-style pizza, supplì (fried rice balls), and gelato. Don't forget to try classic Roman street food like porchetta sandwiches and fried artichokes. Consider taking a food tour to explore Rome's cuisine more thoroughly.

What locations in Rome have the best food?

Some of the best locations in Rome for food include Trastevere for traditional Roman trattorias, Testaccio for authentic street food and local markets. The historic centre (Centro Storico) offers a variety of delicious restaurants. 

Where can I go shopping in Rome?

You can go shopping in Rome at popular areas like Via del Corso for fashion boutiques, Via Condotti for luxury brands. Campo de' Fiori offers bespoke shops for artisanal goods, and Via del Governo Vecchio for vintage clothing and unique finds.

Is Rome Expensive?

Yes, Rome can be expensive. Especially in touristy areas and for dining out. However, there are also budget-friendly options available, such as visiting local markets, dining at trattorias instead of upscale restaurants, and using public transportation instead of taxis. It's possible to enjoy Rome without breaking the bank by planning ahead and being mindful of your spending. 

Rome is one of the most beautiful cities in the world and attracts millions of visitors every year. Get ready to discover 2500+ years of history as you walk the Eternal City’s streets with a local guide. Walk in the charming cobblestone streets in Rome’s historic center. There are so many fantastic ways to really enjoy yourself in Rome.

• Useful info
• Things to do
• Underground Rome
• Rome at Night

Free Italia Wifi

This is a nationwide network of free internet access points supported by various partners. To access it, you only need to register once, and then you can use it in all Italian cities. Hotspots are available in tourist areas, train stations, airports, and more. DigitRoma is part of this network and offers up to four hours of free access per day in Rome. You can register when you connect to any hotspot in the city. Another option is to ask for the wifi password at many bars and most restaurants. They often offer free wifi to their customers.

Restrooms in Rome

When you're out exploring Rome and need to use the restroom, options are limited. While archaeological sites and museums have facilities, public toilets are scarce. Major train stations offer paid services, but if you're on the street, your best bet is a nearby bar. Though legally required to provide access, many bars and restaurants may require a purchase. Since 2019, the city has introduced P Stops in main squares, offering facilities for a fee along with free Wi-Fi and tourist information.

Tourist Information

In addition to the P-Stop with helpful staff, you'll find Tourist Information booths in Rome's main streets. You can also call +39 060608 for tourist information in different languages or visit the official website at https://turismoroma.it/en/. Alternatively, you can call +39 060608 the official tourist information line in a number of languages, or online at https://turismoroma.it/en/

Historical Sites

If you're interested in ancient Roman things, there are lots of old places to check out. The Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill are the main ones. You can also visit Trajan’s markets, a fancy shopping place, or the large public baths called the baths of Caracalla. Another interesting place is Ostia Antica, kind of like Pompeii but near Rome.

If you love exploring churches, Rome is the perfect place with over 963 to pick from! St. Peter’s Basilica is the biggest and most famous, but not the most important. The papal basilicas like St. Peter’s, San Giovanni in Laterano (Rome's Cathedral), Santa Maria Maggiore, and St. Paul outside the walls are crucial for religious visitors. Besides being places for prayer, Rome's churches are full of amazing art by great artists like Caravaggio and Bernini. St. Luigi in Francese have famous artwork. At St. Maria della Vittoria, Bernini’s statue of St. Theresa in Ecstasy is breathtaking.

Art Galleries

Many of Rome's grand palaces now serve as art galleries, showcasing the private collections of noble families. In the past, owning art and sculptures was a hobby for the wealthy, showcasing their status and power. The Vatican houses some of the finest art. For art lovers, the Borghese Gallery is a must-visit, boasting a large collection of Caravaggio and Bernini's masterpieces. The Villa Farnesina in Trastevere features erotic frescoes by Raphael, perfect for Renaissance enthusiasts. If you prefer modern art, check out the GNAM (National Gallery of Modern and Contemporary Art) in Villa Borghese.

Roman Catacomb’s

Discover Rome's catacombs, fascinating underground burial sites steeped in history and mystery. Wander through winding tunnels adorned with ancient artwork and hear captivating tales of early Christian practices. Led by knowledgeable guides, delve into the stories of saints and martyrs resting in these sacred spaces. Whether you're a history enthusiast or simply curious, exploring the catacombs promises an amazing journey into Rome's past.

The Capuchin Crypt

Step into the eerie yet intriguing world of The Capuchin Crypt in Rome. This unique underground site holds the skeletal remains of thousands of Capuchin friars, arranged in elaborate and artistic displays. Each chamber tells a story, offering a glimpse into the Capuchin order's beliefs and traditions. Guided tours provide fascinating insights into the history and significance of the crypt, making it a must-visit for those with a taste for the unusual and curious.

Vatican Necropolis

Step into the mysterious world beneath the Vatican City with a visit to the Vatican Necropolis. This ancient burial site dates back to Roman times and holds the tombs of early Christians, including St. Peter himself. This is one of the best Rome tours available. As you descend into the underground chambers, guided by local experts, you'll uncover centuries of history and religious significance. Marvel at the intricate architecture and learn about the rituals and beliefs of the ancient Romans and early Christians. The feeling is serious and amazing, giving you a special look at history. Guided tours provide insightful commentary, making it a fascinating experience for history buffs and curious visitors alike. Don't miss this opportunity to explore one of Rome's hidden treasures and unravel the mysteries of the Vatican Necropolis.

Enjoy a Colosseum Night Tour

Experience the Colosseum like never before with a night tour! As the sun sets and the crowds thin out, you'll enjoy exclusive access to this iconic ancient landmark. With the help of an expert guide, you'll explore the Colosseum's underground chambers and walk where gladiators once fought. Feel the magic as the moon casts its glow over the ancient ruins, creating an incredible atmosphere. Discover interesting stories and facts about the Colosseum's history as you explore its halls and admire its beauty at night. Don't miss this unique opportunity to see one of the world's most famous attractions in a whole new light!

Try Rome’s Best Gelato

Indulge in Rome's famous gelato, a delightful frozen treat that's a must-try for any visitor! The gelato is made with fresh ingredients and crafted by skilled artisans. It offers a variety of Flavours to satisfy every taste bud. From classic favourites like creamy vanilla and rich chocolate to unique creations such as pistachio and stracciatella, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Enjoy a walking tour through the city streets and find gelato shops nestled in charming alleyways. They are often located close to Piazza Venezia and next to the Trevi Fountain. Each with their own delightful specialties to enjoy. Whether you're cooling off on a hot summer day or simply satisfying your sweet tooth. Rome's gelato is sure to delight your senses and leave you craving more. Don't leave Rome without treating yourself to this irresistible Italian delicacy.

Piazza Relaxing

Feel the charm of Rome's piazzas, where people come together to relax, chat, and enjoy the lively vibe of this eternal city. The Spanish Steps is a great place to relax and soak in the lively atmosphere of Rome especially in the evenings. Whether you're sipping a cappuccino in Piazza Navona, admiring the fountains in Piazza di Spagna, or people-watching in Piazza del Popolo, each square offers its own unique ambiance and beauty. Take a leisurely stroll, find a cozy bench, and enjoy the sights and sounds of Rome unfolding around you. Rome's piazzas offer a vibrant atmosphere with street musicians and outdoor cafes, ideal for embracing Italian culture. Soak up the sunshine, savor the moment, and make memories that will last a lifetime in Rome's picturesque squares.

Trendy Boutiques in Rome: Via Del Corso

Rome isn't just about ancient ruins and gelato – it's also a paradise for fashionistas! Head to Via del Corso, Rome's bustling shopping street, lined with trendy boutiques offering everything from chic clothing to stylish accessories. You'll find both local Italian brands and international labels, so there's something for every taste and budget. Don't forget to explore the charming side streets for hidden gems and unique finds!

Artisanal Crafts: Campo De’Fiori Market

Looking for something truly special to take home from your Roman holiday? Explore the city's artisanal workshops and markets, where skilled craftsmen create handmade treasures. Visit places like Campo de' Fiori Market for beautiful handcrafted leather goods, ceramics, and jewellery. Find special souvenirs and meet the artists who made them, making your shopping experience more personal and unique. So, ditch the touristy trinkets and opt for something authentic and handmade to cherish forever!

Designer Clothing: Via Condotti

Indulge in some high-end retail therapy at Rome's designer boutiques and luxury stores. From iconic Italian fashion houses like Gucci and Prada to international luxury brands. Walk along Via Condotti, Rome's "Fashion Street," to see top designer stores showcasing the latest collections.

Visiting Pompeii is like stepping into a time machine back to ancient Rome! You can stroll through streets that were bustling with people thousands of years ago, peek into houses, and even see where people used to hang out. It's fascinating to see how they lived, worked, and played back then. Plus, the volcano that buried Pompeii, Mount Vesuvius, is still there, adding to the excitement. Pompeii is a must-see for history buffs and anyone curious about life in the past.

Ostia Antica

Ever heard of Ostia Antica? It's like stepping back in time to ancient Rome. A Rome attraction that will not disappoint. Wander through ancient ruins, exploring old streets, and imagining what life was like thousands of years ago. Visit the old amphitheatre where gladiators fought. Walk by the ancient harbour. See ancient mosaics and frescoes that have lasted a long time. This is like being in your own historical adventure! Plus, it's super close to Rome, so you can easily make a day trip out of it. Whether you're a history buff or just someone looking for a cool day out, Ostia Antica is worth a visit. You won't be disappointed!

Amalfi Coast

The Amalfi Coast is like a dream come true! Picture this: stunning cliffs plunging into the sparkling blue sea, colourful villages clinging to the mountainside, and charming beaches tucked away in hidden coves. It's like something out of a postcard! You can walk along cliffs, relax on beaches, and eat seafood at seaside restaurants for a leisurely vacation experience. Don't forget to visit charming small towns like Positano and Amalfi. You can walk along narrow streets and find cute shops and cafes. Plus, the views are absolutely breathtaking – perfect for snapping some envy-inducing photos for your Instagram! Whether you're a nature lover, or just someone looking for a little slice of paradise, the Amalfi Coast has something for everyone.

Planning a Trip to Rome (2024): Tips & Tricks for Better Experience (+Info for First Visit)

By Author Jurga

Posted on Last updated: January 16, 2024

Planning a trip to Italy and looking for travel tips for Rome ? Read on! In this article, I share simple but very important tips for visiting Rome for the first time. Not only will these tips help you have a more enjoyable trip, but they will also help you make the most of your trip. Find out!

I wrote this post after one of my first trips to Rome. My head was still spinning from all the impressions, my legs were sore and, despite walking more than 46km (29 miles) in three days, I definitely gained a few pounds…

I wanted to share some advice for a  more enjoyable travel experience  in the Eternal City and give you some useful tips on how to get the most out of your time in Rome .

From where and when to go, to where to eat and where to stay, to what shoes to wear – find out all you need to know when planning a trip to Rome so that you can get the most out of your visit and truly enjoy it.

Good to know: This blog with Rome travel tips has been updated after our most recent trips to Rome. We do our best to keep it up-to-date with experience-based tips and insights. I hope that it will help you plan a fun and truly memorable visit to the Eternal City!

Top 4 Tickets You Should Book in Advance:

• Airport Transfer .
• Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel .
• Colosseum & Roman Forum .
• The Pantheon (yes, since recently, you need a ticket here too!).

Rome is a beautiful place! One of the most beautiful cities in Italy and one of the most impressive cities in the world! I often refer to it as the city-museum because it really feels as if you are walking through a huge museum.

Every street, every church, every building breaths history. There’s so much to see in do in Rome and it’s a city like no other, a place everyone should visit, at least once in their lifetime.

Unfortunately, it feels as if everyone is actually visiting Rome at the same time as you are… Rome is crowded . It’s certainly the case for the main tourist sights. Visiting the Trevi Fountain in the middle of the day is really no fun. It’s so busy that it makes many other popular destinations look like a rather quiet experience…

Despite the crowds, there are plenty of ways to enjoy the city. Below are some top tips that should help you make the most of your trip to Rome and have a more enjoyable visit. Read on!

Here are our top Rome travel tips:

1. Book in advance

When traveling to Rome for the first time, you probably have a pretty good idea of what you want to see. The Trevi Fountain, the Pantheon, the Colosseum, the Roman Forum, the Vatican…

You will quickly realize that you are not the only one, however. There are huge crowds at each of the most famous landmarks. Often, it’s so busy that if you don’t think to book well in advance, you may not be able to visit at all.

The tickets to the most popular places – the Colosseum and the Vatican Museums – often get sold out at least a few weeks in advance . So if you absolutely want to visit the Colosseum or see Sistine Chapel, you HAVE to book upfront. In the high season (April – October), be sure to book at least 2-3 weeks in advance. In winter, you might be able to find tickets in the same week as well, but don’t count on it.

Here you can get tickets for the Colosseum and the Vatican Museums .

Also, keep in mind that some places – especially the Vatican – can be closed for some religious celebrations or other occasions. When booking in advance, you’ll immediately see which days are unavailable and will be able to adjust your itinerary if needed . Otherwise, you risk not being to able to visit some places at all…

PRO TIP: If the tickets you want to are sold out, you can usually still visit the place by joining a guided tour. Many tour companies have access to additional tickets, and often, they prebook them long in advance as well. More info about tours and tickets below.

2. Get ‘skip the line’ tickets or go with a guided tour

If you are like most tourists, you have just two or three days in Rome and want to see it all. Do you really want to spend most of your time queuing at the most famous landmarks, wondering where exactly to go and what to see, and completely miss out on the more authentic travel experience?

If you don’t, then you should really consider booking ‘skip the line’ tickets or guided tours.

Otherwise – if you are really short on time – you can also skip some must-see places and only see them from the outside. Spend your time getting to know the city and don’t waste it queuing!

Guided tours might cost you a few extra euros, but considering how much your trip costs, it’s really worth spending that tiny bit extra and getting more out of your time in Rome. After all, your trip to Rome is not cheap and it would be a complete waste of money to spend all your time waiting in lines or visiting a place and getting completely overwhelmed not knowing where exactly to go and what to see…

So save time at the most popular attractions and make the most of your trip!

PRO TIP: This Rome Tourist Card is an easy way to secure timed entry tickets to the most popular tourist attractions in Rome in one place. It includes priority access to the Colosseum, Roman Forum & Palatine Hill, Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel, and more. It’s all digital so really simple to use.

Here are some more tips for visiting two of the most popular attractions in Rome . Take a look!

Tips for visiting Colosseum

Skip the lines at the Colosseum by booking your tickets in advance, take a guided tour, or just see the Colosseum from the outside and don’t go inside at all. 

Don’t skip Colosseum completely, just don’t spend the whole day in line!

The ruins of the Colosseum’s basements are well worth a visit, and so is the Arena Floor and the rest of the Colosseum, but do yourself a favor and research what exactly you want to see and how to best do it in advance ! Otherwise, you’ll get overwhelmed, won’t see everything, and/or end up paying way too much to just be able to get in.

TIP: We recently did and recommend this highly-rated all-in Colosseum tour . After hours of research, it looked like the most complete tour and we were so glad we took it. Yes, it was more expensive than just the entrance tickets, but it saved us so much stress and we saw all the very best places in just 3 hours. And yes, the Underground of the Colosseum and the Arena Floor are absolutely worth it!

PRO TIP: If you visit Colosseum on your own, be sure to book your tickets well in advance ! If you want to visit Colosseum Underground, you will always have to go with a guide. Without a guide, you can choose between regular tickets or – slightly more expensive – tickets that also include a visit to Arena Floor (recommended).

If you get this ticket and go on your own, make sure you don’t miss the entry to Arena Floor! Because if you pass it, you won’t be allowed to turn back (to control the crowds, there’s a one-way ‘flow’ inside). We heard from many people that things might get confusing and that they missed several parts of the Colosseum or thought they would visit them later and then were not allowed to go back. This is also why we personally go with a guide and recommend it to our readers as well.

Good to know: The more in advance you book, the more choice of available time slots you’ll have. On the other hand, Colosseum usually only releases its tickets a month upfront . For that, a guided tour is again a better option since you can usually reserve it several months in advance. Alternatively – on the Tiqets website – you can choose the tickets that you want and the date when you want to visit Colosseum, fill in your email address, and they will send you a reminder as soon as the tickets become available.

READ ALSO: How to Visit Colosseum in Rome (all levels and tickets explained)

Tips for visiting Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel

Visit the Vatican Museums with a guided tour or plan your visit at a quieter time. Do you really want to spend 3 hours queuing and wandering around the Vatican Museums in order to spend 2 minutes inside the Sistine Chapel to see the famous ceiling painted by Michelangelo?

I understand that you want to see the Vatican museums – they are absolutely worth it! Just try to at least plan your visit in such a way that you spend more time at the museums and not waiting to get in or trying to figure out where exactly to go.

Nowadays, you HAVE to book your tickets for the Vatican Museums online . We did this and the entrance was easy and smooth. However, we absolutely regretted not booking a guided visit. The place is crowded, it’s not at all clear where exactly to go and what is worth it the most… In the end, all the routes lead to the Sistine Chapel, so we did get there, but we have no idea what else we missed… Either way, we found a visit really stressful and overwhelming. Next time, I’d absolutely go with a tour.

TIP: Going first thing in the morning (=as soon as it opens) or very late in the afternoon is the best way to visit the Vatican Museums. I would also advise booking a tour with a guide – that way you are sure you actually get to see all the best places. This is the most popular tour of the Vatican Museums, this is a great early-bird option without the crowds (recommended!), and here you can find (an overwhelming) choice of all the available tours of the Vatican.

PRO TIP: If you decide to visit the Vatican Museums on your own, book your tickets well in advance . They often sell out days upfront, not even to mention the high season.

Last-minute Vatican tickets. If you can’t find tickets for the Vatican anymore, check here . Sometimes, they have some last-minute tickets available.

UNIQUE TOUR: If you are looking for an even more special experience and don’t mind to splurge, check out this unique VIP Key Master’s Tour . You enter Vatican Museums about 2 hours before they open to the public and walk together with the Key Master as they open the galleries and Sistine Chapel.

3. Outsmart the crowds

One of the concerns I always hear from people visiting Rome is how to actually enjoy the most popular places if it’s always so busy. The good news is that it is absolutely possible to see some of the most popular landmarks in Rome without the huge crowds IF you plan well. And the best way to do this is to go at the less popular times.

TIP: If you want to avoid the biggest crowds, visit Rome in the lower season (November – March) – more about the best months to visit further below, towards the end of this article. But also in the high season, it’s possible to enjoy some of the main sites without too many other people around.

One of my top travel tips for Rome is to try and visit the most popular places in the city early in the morning . But for some places – going in the afternoon might actually be better. Below are some examples and tips for visiting some of the most popular landmarks in Rome . Take a look!

Best time to visit Trevi Fountain

If you want to see Trevi Fountain without hundreds of other people, get up early! Early morning (no later than 7-7.30 AM) is really the best time to visit the Trevi Fountain without the crowds . However, nowadays, it’s often quite busy in the morning too, especially in the summer season…

Alternatively, go to the Trevi Fountain very late in the evening. It will still be busy – it always is – but it’s nothing compared to the crowds during the day.

Best time to visit the Vatican

Depending on where you go exactly – St. Peter’s or Sistine Chapel – it might be better to come either very early or late. Whatever you do, avoid the busiest daytime hours (10 AM to 2-3 PM).

We’ve been to the Vatican in high season and in low season, in the morning, during the day, and also in the afternoon… It’s always very busy during the day, but can be amazing (very) early in the morning or very late in the afternoon.

During the day, all the streets leading to the Vatican are so crowded that it’s really hard to enjoy a visit. But if you come early in the morning or in the late afternoon, it’s a totally different experience.

For the Vatican Museums , we recommend visiting either as soon as they open or going about 2 hours before the closing time. For St. Peter’s Basilica , the best time to visit is late afternoon.

Even in the high season, we once visited St. Peter’s Basilica at 6 PM and we were inside in less than 10 minutes (security check included)! In the low season, it’s already pretty quiet from about 3-4 PM. Just be sure to check the opening times, especially if you also want to climb the Dome.

Good to know: While you absolutely need to book tickets/tour for the Vatican Museums in advance, the entrance to the Basilica doesn’t require a booking and is free of charge. You do need a ticket to go up to the top of St Peter’s Dome, but it can’t be booked in advance. You’ll have to queue and get the tickets for the Dome when you get there.

Recently, we decided to go with a tour because we wanted to learn more and be sure we saw everything. We took this tour that included the Dome and the Underground and it was really good.

TIP: If you visit St. Peter’s on your own, get an audioguide at the entrance. That way, you’ll get some explanation and have a better idea of what you are seeing in this colossal building.

When to visit the Pantheon

First things first – since recently, you need a ticket in order to visit the Pantheon. It used to be free, but that is no longer the case.

You can get tickets on the official website (which is quite confusing according to many recent reports), on GetYourGuide (very easy and you can cancel up to 24 hours before your visit), or simply stand in line and get them on the spot (even more confusing and there are two lines – one for cash payments and one for card payments – and you never know which one will be shorter).

In order to avoid having to stand in a long queue without any shade for an hour or even longer, we highly recommend getting your tickets online. If you get a fast-track timed-entry ticket , you can go to the ‘online’ queue and enter at the specified time slot.

Good to know: At the moment of the last update, all online bookings (official site too) involve picking up the actual ticket at another location. So be sure to read the instructions carefully!

TIP: If you can, visit the Pantheon first thing in the morning or half an hour before the closing time.

The Pantheon is one of the most popular landmarks in Rome and is extremely crowded. The best way to appreciate it without the biggest crowds is to visit in the morning right after it opens or about half an hour before the closing time.

We once managed to see the Pantheon completely empty by visiting it right before it closed. You have to make sure you are not too late as they don’t let people in just before closing time. But once inside, you can stay until it closes and everyone leaves. Great experience!

Good to know: Nowadays, all online tickets include an audio guide. It’s a great way to learn more about the Pantheon, its history, architecture, and the people buried inside. If you listen to the entire narrative, it takes about half an hour.

Spanish Steps, Piazza Navona & other landmarks

Spanish Steps are probably best visited very early in the morning or late at night. This area is always so busy during the day! Often, you can’t even see the steps because of the number of people there.

The same for the Piazza Navona . It’s beautiful in the morning and late in the evening, but crowded during the day.

If you only have a few days in Rome, skip the busiest museums (=save lots of time) . Capitoline Museums are especially busy, with long queues every time we visit Rome.

If you like art, consider some of the less busy places. For example, the art gallery at Villa Borghese is one of the gems of Rome ( tickets have to be booked in advance ). Alternatively, visit some of the churches instead of museums. Often, you can admire the most amazing pieces of art at the churches for free and without the crowds.

4. Stay close to the Pantheon

If your budget allows, try to find a hotel in the old city center. In my opinion, the best place to stay in Rome is the area close to the Pantheon . The best location is pretty much anywhere between Piazza Navona and Trevi Fountain, with the Pantheon being right in the middle. 

Every time we go to Rome, we always stay close to the Pantheon. It’s so central that you can easily walk to all the main landmarks and visit everything without ever needing to use public transport.

Staying here, you can easily discover most of central Rome on foot. It’s also really simple to visit some of the most popular places in the morning without the crowds. Get up early, walk to Trevi Fountain, the Pantheon, or the Spanish Steps, then go back to your hotel for a relaxing breakfast – it’s a great way to start your day in Rome!

You can find some of the best deals for Central Rome accommodation here . Alternatively, here are some hand-picked hotel suggestions in this area for all budgets:

• €€€€€ Eitch Borromini Palazzo Pamphilj – a very popular 4* hotel overlooking Piazza Navona.
• €€€€ 9HotelCesari – a beautiful 4* hotel with the most beautiful rooftop bar/ restaurant. This is the hotel where we stayed on our last visit to Rome.
• €€€ Albergo Abruzzi – an excellent 3* hotel close to the Pantheon.
• €€ Navona Theatre Hotel – 3* hotel with a very good price/ quality/ location ratio. One of the best sellers in Rome!
• €+ Hotel Primavera – a popular 2* hotel offering good value for the location.

READ ALSO: Where to Stay in Rome: Best Area & Hotels

TIP: There are also lots of hotels, apartments, and short-term rental accommodations in the center of Rome. Take a look at the map below where you can compare various accommodation providers in one place and look for the best deals for your trip.

Simply insert your travel dates and group size and you will see what’s available in the area of your choice. Check it out!

5. Research & book airport transfers in advance

If you are arriving in Rome by plane, you’ll most likely land at the Fiumicino Airport , aka Leonardo da Vinci International Airport. This airport is located about 30 kilometers (18.5 miles) outside the city center and the drive usually takes about 35-45 minutes.

Ciampino Airport is about 15 kilometers (9 miles) from the center, but the drive usually takes almost just as long – over half an hour.

There are many ways to get from these airports to the city; the best option depends on where you are staying, at what time of day you arrive, and, of course, your budget. Either way, you will save time and money by doing some research and booking in advance!

Here are the best Rome airport transport options:

• The easiest way to get from any airport directly to your hotel in Rome is by booking a private transfer . Alternatively, you can take a taxi. The rates they charge are now fixed in order to avoid tourist scams. However, depending on the time of the day, traffic can be busy, not even to mention that there is often a long wait for a taxi (for that, a private transfer is better).
• The fastest, most reliable, and most convenient way to get to Rome city center from Fiumicino airport is by train – Leonardo Express . Trains run every 15-20 minutes from early morning to almost midnight. You get a digital ticket that is valid for any train on the selected day, so you don’t have to worry about having to look for a ticket desk or stress in case your flight is delayed. Also, there are no luggage limits. Round-trip tickets are also available.
• The cheapest way to travel between Fiumicino airport and the city center is by this bus that brings you straight to the central railway station without any stops. This shuttle bus is slightly more expensive and has several stops along the way including the Vatican and Rome Termini central station. There is also a similar shuttle bus transfer to/from Ciampino Airport .

LEARN MORE: Rome Airport Transfers (all the best options from Fiumicino or Ciampino)

6. Get off the beaten path in Rome

If I could give one general piece of advice on how to avoid big crowds in Rome, it would be to go in the opposite direction of where most of the people go! Take a side street, look around, enter a narrow passage, try the closed door of a church…

We visited a couple of amazing places just meters away from the main streets where – literally- thousands of people were passing by focused on their main goal and completely ignorant to all the rest.

Here you can find some ideas for Rome underground sites and the best Ancient Rome landmarks (many of these hardly see any visitors), and also for the best views in Rome .

We also have some great suggestions for some of the nicest off-the-beaten-path, different places to see in Rome in a more detailed guide. Take a look via the link below.

LEARN MORE: Hidden Gems of Rome

7. Avoid tourist restaurants

A big part of any Italian trip experience is related to the food. Food in Italy can be absolutely delicious, but don’t just assume it will be everywhere you go.

If I can give one piece of advice when it comes to food in Rome, it would be to avoid tourist places. Eat where locals eat and avoid restaurants with pictures on the menu!

Usually, restaurants at the busiest tourist landmarks (directly on Piazza Navona, at the Pantheon, or Campo dei Fiori) don’t have the best food. Not to mention that they are often seriously overpriced too.

If you are not sure where to eat, ask your hotel for suggestions, but keep in mind that some hotels might recommend places for other reasons than their quality. The best way to find good places is to check reviews on Google Maps – this is really the easiest way to avoid tourist traps.

TIP: A nice way to get to taste some really good local food is by joining a food tour or a cooking class . If you do this at the beginning of your stay in Rome, you will immediately have a few good addresses of places to eat in the city. Be sure to also ask your tour guide for some local recommendations as well!

Our experience: On our most recent visit to Rome, we booked this amazing street food tour on one of the first days we were in the city. Not only it was a great way to learn the more local side of Rome, but we also tried some absolutely delicious food and got plenty of restaurant ideas for the rest of our stay. Here you can find our review of this street food tour in Rome . Highly recommended!

LEARN MORE: How to Find the Best Food in Rome Best Traditional Food in Italy

8. Take some cash

When visiting Rome (or anywhere in Italy, for that matter), you should always have some cash on you . Italy uses Euro, so you do need Euros, of course.

While in the past credit cards were really unpopular in Rome, the situation has changed a lot recently (probably because of the pandemic). On our most recent visit to Rome, we could use our credit cards pretty much everywhere in the city – all the shops and restaurants accept credit cards and we never really needed cash. Except on a few occasions – see below.

First, taxis – they seem to really hate credit cards. So if you are planning on taking a taxi in Rome, you should always have enough cash. It’s still very difficult to find a taxi driver who will want to take a credit card. ‘Cash, no card’, they’ll tell you. We took a taxi from the airport to the city and couldn’t pay by card. Also our private transfer arranged by the hotel back to the airport only accepted cash, even though the hotel told us that we could pay by card…

If you don’t want to use cash for airport transfers , you can easily pre-book them online in advance . Often, it’s also the cheaper way, depending on where you are going.

Second, street vendors, souvenir shops, and local markets . If you buy something from one of the street vendors, small souvenir shops, or at a local market, you will need cash as well.

And third, tipping . If you are taking tours and want to tip a tour guide, or if you want to leave a small tip at a restaurant, you’ll want to have some cash. Remember that tipping isn’t a must in Europe, but we have a feeling that most Italians appreciate/expect a tip. So we usually tipped about 10% at the restaurant and also some (private) tours.

But apart from this, you can now pay for pretty much everything by card. Even small purchases like gelato at the best gelaterias in Rome can be paid by card. Also museums and other attractions accept credit cards.

All that being said, don’t carry lots of cash with you. 50-100 EUR (ideally in smaller notes) should be plenty. Leave the rest at your hotel and top up when you spend some.

9. Take a bike to get more out of your time in Rome

The old city center of Rome is pretty compact. You can easily walk to the main sights such as Piazza Navona, Pantheon, The Trevi Fountain, and the Spanish Steps. Even the Vatican and the Colosseum are within walking distance from the city center.

However, if you want to explore more of Rome and discover some of the less known hidden gems of the city you may want to consider renting a bike or joining one of the many guided bike tours . By bike, you can cover big distances in less time and get more out of your time in the city.

We recommend the latter – bicycling in Rome is hectic and it’s only fun if you know the city well and know where exactly to go. Guided tours follow routes that they have tried and tested many times before allowing you to truly enjoy the experience.

TIP: If you opt to explore Rome by bike, opt for e-bikes. It’s a hilly city and an electric bike will make it so much easier! This is one of the best-rated bike tours of the highlights in the city center . And this is the AMAZING off-the-beaten-path bike tour that we recently did in Rome (highly recommend).

10. Visit Rome in the lower season

Most travel guides will probably tell you that spring and early autumn is the best period to visit Rome and they are absolutely right. April-May and late September-October are the best months to visit Rome weather-wise. But it’s also extremely busy in that period.

On the other hand, you really want to avoid visiting Rome (or any other cities in Italy for that matter) in summer when temperatures soar to well over 35°C (95°F), often even higher. Furthermore, locals leave the city in the summer, and – especially in August – Rome feels a bit like a theme park with hardly any locals at all.

Once we visited Rome the first weekend of May and with temperatures of just 18-22°C (64-72°F). It was pleasant most of the time and sometimes it even felt too warm.

Another time, we were in Rome at the end of September and it was still HOT during the day. I cannot even try to imagine how hot it feels there in July or August.

Our most recent visit to Rome was at the beginning of November. We did get a few showers one day and one day it was really warm, but for the rest – the weather was perfect for sightseeing. We had temperatures of about 20°C (68°F) most of the time. As for the crowds, it was still very busy at the main landmarks.

Visiting Rome during the cooler months is best if you want to avoid the heat, the crowds, and save some money on accommodation. If you don’t mind a higher possibility of some rain, I recommend the ‘shoulder season’ – end of March – the beginning of April (but avoid Easter!) and the beginning of November. In fact, November can be a great month to visit the bigger cities in Italy. Here you can read about what it’s like to visit Italy in November and here – what to expect when visiting Rome in November .

READ ALSO: Best Time to Visit Europe

11. Wear comfortable shoes & dress respectably

I could have as well put this at the very beginning of this article as one of the most important tips for Rome – wear comfortable shoes!

Don’t underestimate the importance of good footwear when visiting a big city and especially Rome! Rome is a very walkable city, but the distances can add up and you’ll be walking a lot.

If your feet are hurting, you will not be able to enjoy the sights much. So forget about all the ‘Italy is about looking stylish’ advice and pack comfortable shoes. Normally, I don’t really like wearing sports shoes in the city, but sneakers have become very common in Europe in recent years as well. And given the choice, I would always go for the good old comfy sneakers instead of summer sandals with a thin sole…

You can often tell what kind of shoes people are wearing just by looking at the expression on their faces. People who still look happy and are smiling at the end of the day, are usually the ones with the most comfortable footwear.

These days, there are so many comfortable and stylish shoes available that you don’t even need to sacrifice comfort for style.

Another important tip for Rome is to be sure that your shoulders are covered and that you wear respectable clothing . Most churches in Rome don’t allow shorts, mini skirts, or sleeveless shirts. This is also the case when visiting the Vatican.

READ ALSO: Most Beautiful Churches in Italy (+ Tips for Visiting)

12. Pack a water bottle

No matter when you visit Rome – in summer or in winter – you’ll want to carry a bottle of drinking water with you. And while you can buy bottled water in the city, there is absolutely no need to waste money and use more plastic than necessary!

There are more than 2,500 drinking fountains in Rome. The water is fresh, cold, always available, and it’s completely free of charge.

So pack a reusable water bottle and be sure to fill it up every time you pass one of these drinking fountains!

13. Prepare a good itinerary, but don’t overplan

One last piece of advice for visiting Rome – don’t plan every minute of your day in advance, especially if you have more than a day or two in the city.

Yes, it’s important to have an approximate itinerary and pre-book tickets for the main attractions (or you’ll waste too much time and might not even be able to visit at all). But be sure to also allow yourself some time to get off the beaten path and explore some interesting places you’ll come across along the way.

Look around you and you will be amazed to see how many hidden treasures you will find in Rome: the most beautiful churches, wonderful architecture, secret alleys, and little town squares…

All you have to do is keep your eyes open and your mind flexible.

Enjoy your trip!

Suggested itineraries:

• Rome in a Day (how to see all the musts in just 1 day)
• Rome in 2 Days (all the best places + a few hidden gems)
• 4 Days in Rome (amazing itinerary that covers all the main landmarks & and lots of hidden gems)
• You may also like: 2-week Italy Itinerary (covers all the musts in the most efficient way)

READ ALSO: Best Things to Do in Rome

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More tips for your trip to Italy:

• Best Places to See in Italy
• Best Things to Do in Venice
• Best Things to Do in Naples
• Best Things to Do in Florence
• Best Things to Do in Milan
• Best Things to Do in Bologna
• Best Things to Do in Siena
• Best Things to Do in Verona
• Best Things to Do in Como
• One Day in Venice
• Milan in One Day
• Amalfi Coast Itinerary
• Most Beautiful Towns in Tuscany
• Cinque Terre vs. Amalfi Coast
• Tips for Cinque Terre
• Emilia Romagna Itinerary
• Hiking in the Dolomites
• Best Places in the Dolomites
• Bellagio, Lake Como
• Varenna, Lake Como
• … For more destinations, please see Italy travel guide .

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Sunday 21st of April 2024

Thank you for the indepth insights. It is wonderful. Any know abouts to consider if traveling with toddler and infants? Is it convenient to take a stroller every where ?

Monday 22nd of April 2024

@Jurga, Thank you very much. The tip to carry lock is great !!

Regards, Noshir

Hi Noshir, the historic center of Rome is rather flat but there are cobbled stones everywhere. And the moment you leave the center, there are also some hills - like the Spanish Steps, for example. So it's not a straightforward answer. You will be able to visit many places with a stroller (with big wheels that can handle cobbled streets), but there are also many places where it won't be easy. Like the Colosseum, for example - you can walk around it with a stroller, but visiting inside won't be easy. That said, we have been to other hillier places in Italy when our kids were in strollers and we managed (with three kids and two strollers - one of them double). But you have to do a bit more research for every place you want to visit. There's also a huge difference when you travel with just one kid/stroller or a couple of young kids and a few strollers. One tip - pack a bicycle lock with you. So that if you have to leave the strollers somewhere, you can lock them up.

Liviu Trimbitas

Friday 23rd of February 2024

Sorry Jurga, me again, We are planing on staying 4 days in Rome, visit the main landmarks, I just can't make up my mind if we should get the Rome Tourist Card or just book individually for each one of those. Thank you, Liviu

Tuesday 27th of February 2024

Hi Liviu, if you mean this Rome Tourist Card, then it has pretty much the same advantages as booking everything individually, but normally, it's a bit cheaper AND you get to choose all tickets/time slots in one place. So it's very convenient, if you want to visit all those places anyway. If, however, you would like to book a guided tour at e.g. Colosseum, then it's better to book individual tickets for the other attractions. But if you are just looking for tickets and want to visit everything on your own, then you can just as well book everything in one go. Hope this helps. Have a great trip!

Hi Jurga, Most comprehensive guide, congratulation and thank you. Liviu

Diki Khiangte

Thursday 8th of February 2024

Hello Jurga Thank you so much for providing a lot of useful information , Italy is my dream destination ever since , my husband and i are planning to visit Rome next month Is it a good time to travel in March?

Saturday 10th of February 2024

Hi Diki, Rome is always a good idea and March is a very nice month for sightseeing, with temperatures around 14-18°C (57-64°F) during the day. It may rain on some days too, so be sure to pack a rain jacket and a sweater. If you are flexible, I would try not to travel too close to Easter because it will be very busy during Holy Week. But if you book everything ahead, you'll be fine. Have a great trip!

Wednesday 7th of February 2024

Hello Jurga Thank you for producing all of this information. We are travelling to Rome in a few weeks time and I have used a lot of your advice for where and when to go and your links for booking some of the attractions. I wondered if you have used any of the Hop-on-hop-off buses in Rome and whether they are worth considering. Thank you

@Jurga, okay, thank you

Hi Michele, as far as I can recall, we never used a hop on hop off bus in Rome. It's such a walkable city - we love walking everywhere. Whether it's worth it... It depends. If you have little time, don't want to walk much, and want to see a lot in a short time without taking the time to visit anywhere inside, then it could be nice to just sit and do the whole tour once. If, however, you want to visit various places, you will likely need several hours at each stop, so it won't be the best use of your bus ticket. Once again, it really depends on what you want to see, how much time you have, and how much walking you want to do. If you haven't seen it yet take a look at our Rome itinerary for 4 days and also for 1 day. That might give you some ideas of how to plan your time.

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I've been a tour guide in Rome for 16 years. Here are 5 tourist attractions that are worth it and 5 you can skip.

• After 16 years of working as a tour guide in Rome , I've figured out the best attractions.
• I always recommend visiting the Park of the Aqueducts and the  Ostia Antica archeological site.
• But I think the Colosseum, Trevi Fountain, and Mouth of Truth attractions are overcrowded. 

Rome is pretty crowded — the city welcomed a record-breaking 35 million tourists in 2023. Any gorgeous photos you see of breathtaking and empty piazzas were likely taken long before most people have woken up.

As a seasoned Roman tour guide for the past 16 years, I would never say certain attractions have no merit. But after years of interacting with travelers , I understand that people want alternatives.

Luckily, Rome has priceless art and artifacts around every corner.

Here are five popular attractions that are worth visiting, and five you might want to skip.

The Capitoline Museums offer plenty of art and archeological finds.

Located on Capitoline Hill, the Capitoline Museums offer a treasure trove of ancient Roman art and artifacts.

Despite their historical significance as some of the oldest public museums in the world , they're often overlooked by tourists.

The well-curated collections include masterpieces by renowned artists like Michelangelo and Caravaggio, ancient bronzes, and frescoes. It's a must-visit for any art enthusiast seeking a quieter, more intimate experience.

Don't miss the Basilica di San Giovanni in Laterano.

As one of Rome's four major basilicas, San Giovanni in Laterano (also known as the Archbasilica of St. John Lateran) boasts a stunning display of baroque architecture and intricate frescoes.

It may not be as famous as some of Rome's other churches, but its grandeur and historical importance as the oldest papal basilica in the city make it a hidden gem worth exploring.

The Park of the Aqueducts is beautiful and full of history.

Escape the crowds and stagnant air of the city center and venture into a tranquil Park of the Aqueducts (Parco degli Acquedotti).

Here, you'll see towering arches of 11 aqueducts that once carried water to the heart of ancient Rome. It's a perfect spot for a leisurely stroll on the ancient Latin Road or a picnic away from the crowds.

The attraction also offers a unique perspective on the ingenuity of Roman engineering.

There's incredible art in the Basilica of Sant’Agostino.

Art lovers shouldn't miss the exquisite "Madonna dei Pellegrini" housed within the Cavalletti Chapel at Basilica di Sant'Agostino in Campo Marzio.

The dramatic interplay of light and shadow in Caravaggio's painting comes alive in the serene church, providing a captivating glimpse into the artist's unparalleled talent and revolutionary style.

A Roman vacation isn't complete without a trip to Ostia Antica.

Step back in time and explore the remarkably well-preserved ruins of Ostia Antica, Rome's ancient seaport.

The archaeological site offers a quieter and less time-consuming alternative to the crowds of Pompeii a little farther south. Visitors can wander through ancient streets, houses, and Roman theaters in a more peaceful setting than the Roman Forum.

Plus, you can enjoy a seafood lunch overlooking the Tyrrhenian Sea after your visit .

On the other hand, the Vatican Museums are overcrowded.

Although the Vatican Museums are undeniably home to some of the world's most renowned art collections, they're almost always swarming with tourists.

The crowds and long queues can detract from your overall experience. In peak season , the Vatican easily sees 20,000 to 30,000 visitors a day.

It's virtually impossible to admire the art as you're shuttled through each gallery until everyone spills into the Sistine Chapel . Even the bathroom lines can be a 30-minute wait.

Unless you are willing to spend a lot of money on an official tour before the museums are open to the public or visit in the offseason , you should consider alternative attractions.

You can get a good view of the Colosseum without going inside.

As iconic as it may be, the Colosseum can be overwhelming, particularly during peak tourist seasons .

Its historical significance is undeniable, but exploring the ancient amphitheater can be a challenge among the swarms of visitors.

Acquiring tickets is also tricky. We often have to time our online purchases perfectly, refreshing the page in 10-minute intervals. Tickets sell out quickly and are sometimes resold by large companies.

Consider alternative viewpoints or guided tours for a more personalized experience. I also like taking in the exterior around 9 a.m. or in the evening when it lights up.

Walking the Appian Way might be a letdown.

The Appian Way is significant in Roman history as the oldest and most important road. But its appeal may be lost on the average tourist.

Nowadays, there are loads of bike and bus tours to the Catacombs along the road — making it crowded — and public transport there is difficult.

I suggest visiting the Park of the Aqueducts instead. It's an easy metro ride from Termini Station and offers a glimpse into what the Roman countryside would've been like.

Everyone wants a photo in front of the Trevi Fountain — and that's the problem.

Although undeniably one of Rome's most famous landmarks , the Trevi Fountain is often teeming with tourists jostling for the perfect selfie.

The sheer volume of visitors can detract from the fountain's beauty and significance, making it challenging to appreciate it in peace.

If you insist on throwing a coin in, go as early in the morning as possible — otherwise, it's a zoo.

I wouldn't wait in line for the Mouth of Truth.

Made famous by its appearance in classic films like "Roman Holiday," the Mouth of Truth may not live up to the hype for many visitors.

According to medieval legend, the stone mask will bite off the hand of any liar who enters its mouth, which has made it popular with tourists.

But the brief photo opportunity doesn't justify the long queues. Plus, it was probably just used as a drain cover in the Temple of Hercules.

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What to Book in Advance in Rome (and when to book it!)

By Elyssa Bernard

Updated April 17, 2024

Wondering what to book in advance in Rome? 

This page is about how far in advance you have to book things, and what to do when you don't book in time.

Why you should book in advance in Rome . . . and what to do when you are too late

It’s easy to visit Rome without any advance planning whatsoever .

You will still see a lot. 

In my experience, however, people often arrive in Rome with a wish list, only to discover that what they wanted to see/do needed to be booked ahead, and is now sold out.

One reason to book in advance in Rome is simply due to high demand and limited availability.

Another reason is to skip the lines.

This page is to help you plan ahead, but I'm also including tips for what to do when you're too late .

Here's how to plan your visit and book in advance in Rome to make sure you see what you want to see:

• Things to book ahead by at least 3 months
• Things to book in advance in Rome by 1 week
• Things to book in advance in Rome by 1-2 days
• Things you do not need to book in advance in Rome

Things you should book in advance in Florence and Venice

You might be TOO EARLY

There are a lot of things you cannot book in advance in Rome by more than say, 6 months.

If there is something you want to do more than 6 months from now, and you don't see availability, check back each month until they start opening it up to bookings.

This page is mostly about what to book in advance in Rome during the busy months ( March - November ).

If you are planning to visit Rome in the quietest months  of winter (part of December, January and early February ), you may not need to book quite so far in advance.

Things to book in advance in Rome by at least three months

The below are some of the most highly requested things to see and do in Rome . You need to plan ahead.

Vatican Sites to visit to book in advance in Rome

Christmas or easter mass at the vatican.

The Pope holds mass throughout the year  for various important occasions. Even during Christmas and Easter, there are several masses he holds. But the most popular papal masses of the entire year by far are  Christmas Eve Midnight Mass , and  Easter Sunday Mass , both held at  Saint Peter's Basilica . 

You need tickets for both. Tickets are free, but they are also in limited supply.

Visit my pages for each holiday, with instructions for booking. You cannot go wrong requesting tickets 6 months in advance.

What to do if you can't get tickets to Vatican Christmas or Easter masses?

• You can try to go there anyway . Sometimes people have extra tickets, and give them away to people walking by, and you could just get lucky. You can try to ask at the bronze doors where the Swiss Guard stand. That's a long shot but you never know.
• You can go to Saint Peter's Basilica and plan to be outside . This is less enjoyable when it's Christmas, as Christmas Mass is held inside the basilica and it's cold outside. But at Easter, you can stand far back and still get a glimpse of the Pope on the jumbotrons.
• You could try for other papal masses around the holidays. You could try for mass on Christmas Day, or on at Easter on Holy Thursday, Friday, Saturday, or Monday.
• On both Christmas Day and Easter Sunday, the Pope addresses the crowds in Saint Peter's Square after mass, at noon . This address is free and open to everyone. It's called Urbi et Orbi , and is a short speech, usually only in Italian, lasting about 15 minutes.
• There are so many other churches in Rome where you can attend these special holiday masses, without, of course, seeing the Pope. One such church is the Pantheon . Space will be limited so come early!

St Peter’s tomb - the Necropolis under St. Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City

A visit to  St. Peter's tomb , also called  scavi  (excavations) is a fascinating archeological tour, showing us a glimpse of how the Ancient Romans buried their dead.

It is also one of the most sought-after, and difficult to get, reservations in Rome. 

When you   visit the Vatican Necropolis   (city of the dead, or burial grounds), deep underneath Saint Peter's basilica, you will also see the site where St. Peter is said to be buried .

The site is delicate, so they only allow 12 people on each tour, and a maximum 250 people in the excavations per day. And the tours do not go every day. So as you can imagine, especially as we get into high season months, from March - November, you will have to really plan ahead to visit this amazing site .

What to do if you can't get tickets to Saint Peter's tomb?

• You can try booking through a ticket agency. It's more expensive than booking directly through the Scavi office, but it's a little easier, and, you have a chance to get tickets if the Scavi office is sold out.
• You can visit other parts of the Vatican, and when you are in Saint Peter's basilica , you can head down into the tombs just below the main church. This is NOT the same as visiting Saint Peter's tomb, but you can see where many other popes are buried, and you will at least be IN the place where St. Peter is said to be buried. This is free and part of a visit to St. Peter's basilica.
• You can visit the Mamertine prison on Capitoline Hill , and see where Saints Peter and Paul were held prisoner before their executions.
• You can visit the church of Saint John in Lateran , where the skulls of Peter and Paul are kept.
• You can visit the church of Saint Pauls Outside the Walls , where Saint Paul is buried.
• You can visit the catacombs , where many Christians and saints are said to have been buried.

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Exclusive After-Hours Visit to the Sistine Chapel

Did you know you can skip all the lines but also the crowds, and see the Sistine Chapel after hours?

This very special thing to do does not come cheaply.

But in my experience, it sells out FAST , precisely because it's so exclusive. So if you want to to partake, you need to book as far in advance as you can.

What to do if you can't get tickets to an exclusive after-hours visit to the Sistine Chapel?

• If your goal is to have privileged access to the Vatican Museums and the Sistine Chapel , one option is to join the Vatican Patrons . I've found a lot of visitors to Rome sign up for this year-long membership even if they won't be able to partake of their privileges throughout the year, simply because they find it worth doing even for the short time they are in Rome. 
• You can book an early morning tour to see the Sistine Chapel before opening time . Since many tour companies offer this option, it is not as exclusive or private as seeing it after hours. But it's still much less crowded than during normal visiting hours.
• My personal preference for visiting the Vatican Museums is always to go as late in the day as possible . I like to go in at 3:45pm, right before the ticket office closes at 4pm. Then, I get to the Sistine Chapel at 5:20pm, before they start shooing people out at about 5:30pm (the Sistine Chapel closes at 6pm but that is the time they shut the doors, so they need everyone out before that). Then, I just stand that and look at the art. I mean really look at it, closing out all other senses. Ignore the guards asking people to leave. You don't have to leave just yet. Stay as long as you can, focus on what you are seeing, and just soak it up. It's not an exclusive visit, but it feels more special this way, and it's definitely less crowded than during the peak hours of the day.

Colosseum Underground

Visiting the Colosseum  is one thing.

Visiting the  Colosseum underground  (hypogeum) is another.

This special visit has limited availability, in part because the area is delicate, and cannot accommodate the thousands of visitors who come to the Colosseum every day. This is one visit you must book in advance in Rome, year-round.

What to do if you can't get tickets to the Underground?

• You can try booking a tour through an agency . It will cost more than booking it directly on the Parco Colosseo website , but you may find availability that way.
• You can try to book a night tour of the Colosseum (only spring-summer-early fall). The night tours include a visit to the underground of the Colosseum.

Palazzo Farnese

Palazzo Farnese  is one of the most exquisite, and one of the most difficult to book, noble palazzos in Rome, because it is today the French Embassy.

Due to security concerns, there are a limited number of tours, with a limited number of visitors allowed each week.

Visits in English are held only once a week (Wednesdays at 5pm).

If you want to see Palazzo Farnese, you need to book as far in advance as you can (and as far in advance as their calendar allows). Bookings are not accepted less than one week before the date of the visit. 

What to do if you can't get tickets to Palazzo Farnese?

• You could try to take the visit in another language . There are many more options for visits in French and in Italian . If it's important for you to see the villa, and you can only get a tour in a language you don't understand, you will at least be able to soak in all the beauty.
• You can visit another one of Rome's noble palazzos, such as Palazzo Doria Pamphilj .
• You can come to Piazza Farnese and get a look at the facade (designed in part by Michelangelo ), and enjoy an aperitivo at one of the wine bars there.

The perfect 3-day itinerary in Rome

Trying to figure out how to organize your visit to Rome? I've got the perfect 3-day itinerary for first-time visitors (or those who have not been here in a while.) It works for a 2.5 day visit as well.

In my 3-day itinerary, you'll see all the major must-see Rome attractions like the Vatican , Colosseum , Trevi Fountain , Pantheon , Piazza Navona , Spanish Steps , Castel Sant'Angelo , and much more.

And if you have more time, or want suggestions for extra/other things to do, you'll find that there too.

Visit my page with the best 3-day itinerary in Rome for first-timers .

La Pergola restaurant at the Rome Cavalieri Waldorf Astoria

As of early November 2023, La Pergola is closed for renovations until April 2024. Check back for updates.

Rome has one 3*** Michelin star restaurant, La Pergola , inside the Cavalieri Waldorf Astoria . Chef Heinz Beck is world-renowned for his creative, exquisite dishes, and dining at the Pergola offers a treat for the senses like no place else in Rome, perfect for a romantic meal .

You'll need to book months in advance to get a coveted spot here. Jacket and tie required.

What to do if you can't get a reservation at La Pergola?

• The Waldorf Astoria boasts another wonderful restaurant, L'Uliveto , headed by celebrity chef Fabio Boschero . You will dine poolside on delicious cuisine, worthy of the setting.
• Rome has several Michelin star restaurants, all wonderful, and some with views . Two of my favorite 1* Michelin restaurants in Rome are the Mirabelle inside the hotel Splendide Royale , and Imago on top of the Hotel Hassler . These are both restaurants to book in advance in Rome, by at least 3-4 days.

Things to book in advance in Rome by at least a week

Galleria borghese.

In low season, you may be able to visit the Galleria Borghese without booking ahead, but most of the time this is one museum you must book in advance in Rome, even by a few days.

And in peak season , you need to book ahead of time by at least a week.

What to do if you can't get a reservation at the Galleria Borghese?

• You can phone the booking office (011 39 06 32810). Sometimes they have tickets available even if you cannot find them online.
• You can try just showing up and seeing if there are any no-shows. The best times to try this are 8:30am for the 9am slot, or 4:30pm for the 5pm slot.
• You can try booking a tour through an outside agency.
• You can visit another of Rome's wonderful art museums , such as the Doria Pamphilj , the Villa Torlonia, and the Capitoline Museums .

Vatican Museums

If you have a tight travel schedule and want to visit the Vatican Museums on a specific date and time, you should book at least a week in advance.

If you, as many visitors to Rome do, don’t book ahead for the Vatican museums, you may be able to book once you are in Rome. You just may find, especially in peak season, that you can't get a ticket online, or cannot get one for the time/date you want.

Friday or Saturday Night Visit to Vatican Museums

If you are visiting Rome between April and October, and want to visit the Vatican Museums on Friday or Saturday night , you should book this at least a week in advance .

What to do if you can't get a reservation for the Vatican Museums through the Vatican Website?

• You can go there and wait in line. They do not have a daily quota for number of visitors, so if you wait, you will eventually get in . The lines can be long, even 2 hours' wait time. Try going first thing in the morning ( 8am, for 9am entry ), or closer to closing, like 3:30pm , when there is almost no line.
• Try to book a tour online , even same day. Tour companies all offer skip-the-line access.
• If you go down to the Vatican Museums, you will be bombarded by touts trying to sell you skip-the-line tickets and/or tours . Caveat emptor - buyer beware . You have no idea what you are paying for, and often, it can be a tour happening 2 hours later so you sill have to wait. Be very careful about this if you decide to go for one of these options. I don't recommend it but it is an option.
• If you know you will be back in Rome soon, you could skip the museums and visit just St. Peter's Basilica , and plan to see the museums on your next visit, when you can book in advance.

Vatican Gardens

Like some of the other exclusive sites in the Vatican, visits to the Vatican Gardens are something you should book in advance in Rome if you want to get a spot. 

They are not held every day, and only a limited number of people are allowed in at a time, so these sell out quickly.

What to do if you can't get a reservation for the Vatican Gardens?

• You can try to  book through a ticket agency .
• You can book a visit to the Pope's gardens at Castel Gandolfo . ( Visit our dedicated page about Castel Gandolfo .)
• You can climb the dome of St. Peter's Basilica , where you can see the gardens from above.
• If you're looking for some green space, head to Villa Borghese park , or one of the other many parks in Rome.

Domus Aurea

Visiting the Domus Aurea can be one of highlights of a visit to Rome, especially if you are into Ancient Rome. This extraordinary archeological site gives you a rare chance to see and experience what an ancient Roman Imperial palace was like . 

Availability is very limited, in part because it's open for tours only on weekends . This is one site you really must book in advance in Rome.

What to do if you can't get a reservation for the Domus Aurea?

• You can try to  book a tour that includes this. It will cost more than booking directly with Parco Colosseo , but it will include other things too.
• Visit Palazzo Valentini (below),  another amazing underground Ancient Rome site .
• Visit the Palazzo Massimo alle Terme , a wonderful museum with fantastic Ancient Rome artefacts, sculptures, mosaics and more.

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Domus Romana - Palazzo Valentini

The Domus Romana at Palazzo Valentini is an amazing visit of an ancient Rome site. Right underneath Trajan's Column and Trajan's Forum , you can see excavations of an ancient Roman  domus , or home. The tour is excellent, and offers an immersive experience, including film, light shows and laser images .

Just a small warning - it made me a little dizzy to have lights going off and the floor lighting up underneath me, but I still loved it. I just leaned on the wall!

Because the number of people and visits per day is limited, you will need to book in advance if you want to visit this site.

What to do if you can't get a reservation for Palazzo Valentini?

• You can go to the booking office/entry site and see if they've had any cancellations/openings.
• Visit the  Palazzo Massimo alle Terme , a wonderful museum with fantastic Ancient Rome artefacts, sculptures, mosaics and more.

Papal Audience

To attend the weekly Papal Audience , it's a good idea to book at least a week in advance, if not more. 

Depending on how busy it is in Rome, you can sometimes book 1-2 days in advance.

What to do if you can't get a reservation for the Papal Audience?

• You can go at 7am to the bronze door of the Swiss Guard on the morning of the audience, and ask if they have tickets. This is not a guarantee but often you will be able to get them this way.
• You can try booking through a tour agency . In this case you will pay to attend the Papal Audience. As a bonus, the tour agent usually accompanies you to seating near the front.

Things to book in advance in Rome by 1-2 days (but often can also be booked on the same day)

Some of the below are ALSO in the sections above about what to book in advance in Rome by a week or more.

They are in this section as well because you can sometimes book them during your visit, or with short notice , if you are here in low season, or, in high season, if you get lucky.

Just know that even if it's the same day, you SHOULD book .

So the exact time when to book in advance in Rome for these things is up to you.

If you are a planner , err on the side of caution and book ahead.

If you like to play it by ear , you will probably get bookings to the below, perhaps just not exactly when/how you want to:

I always suggest booking (even same day) ahead for the Vatican Museums , purely to make sure you get skip-the-line tickets .

The Pantheon

As of July 3, 2023, it will cost 5€ to visit the Pantheon

You don't need to book ahead (but you can -visit my dedicated Pantheon page below). You can simply wait in line at the Pantheon to buy your ticket.

To find out how to book the Pantheon  Visit my dedicated page all about Pantheon tickets to find out how.

Opera/ballet

Unless you have a specific, high in-demand concert or opera you know you want to see, you can usually find tickets to an opera or concert last-minute in Rome .

This includes concerts at Rome's auditorium, operas in Rome's opera house or at the Caracalla baths , and of course, the smaller concerts held in churches around Rome. So even if you book the same day, you will find something to see.

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As I mentioned above, in low season , you can often just go to the entrance of the Swiss Guard at 7am and ask if they have tickets. And in high season, you can try this as well, although in general, the Papal Audience is one thing I suggest you book in advance in Rome by at least a week.

Most restaurants

My advice to you is to relax about this and not over-plan.

I’ve seen so many of our hotel guests book a restaurant, and then cancel at the end of a long day, because they either “are too tired to go very far” or, “ate some pizza along the way and now are not hungry, we might just go out for some drinks.”

Once you are in Rome, you can see how you feel, and decide even on the same day where you want to have dinner. Believe me, there is always someplace good to eat in Rome .

When to book advance in Rome at a restaurant

However, there are exceptions to my above advice:

• To book at Rome’s only 3-star Michelin restaurant, La Pergola , you need to book weeks, if not months, in advance As of early November 2023, La Pergola is closed for renovations until April 2024. Check back for updates.  
• To book at some of the hottest popular “best Rome trattorias” , you should consider booking a few  days in advance. (By this I mean the ones blazing the pages of all the Rome food blogs.)
• If you are coming at a very busy time, and have a specific restaurant where you really want to eat , book a couple of days in advance. By busy times, I don’t mean Christmas and Easter. I mean during really busy weekends , such as when 6-nations Rugby matches are in town (in February and March); when the BNL tennis tournaments are in Rome (mid-May); on Valentine’s Day ; or when a major concert is on in Rome. 

So if you are coming on a weekend-break to Rome, consider if there is a special event or reason you are coming.

Chances are, thousands of others are coming too, so you should book in advance in Rome if you know where you want to eat.

Things you don’t need to book in advance in Rome  

When I say that for the below, you don't need to book in advance in Rome, I mean, you do not need to book at all. Just show up.

Visiting Saint Peter’s Basilica (not the museums)

Visiting the Vatican  usually entails seeing the  Vatican Museums  (for which I highly recommend booking in advance, see above), and visiting St. Peter's Basilica. You can visit one and not the other, and you can also visit them on separate days.

St. Peter's Basilica is open 7 days a week, from 7am until 6:30pm ( winter ) or 7pm (summer).

It's free, but you do have to go through security. So you do not need to book this in advance.

You CAN  purchase tickets to skip the line , but that can also be done a day in advance and often on the same day.

The Pope’s Sunday angelus

One of the best ways to  see the Pope in Rome  is to attend the Sunday Angelus.

Held (just about) every Sunday when the Pope is in Rome , this short greeting is free for everyone and does not require a ticket.

Just come to St. Peter's square around 11:30, and wait for the Pope to appear in the window above, and greet the crowd. The Angelus starts at 12 noon and lasts about 15 minutes.

Forum/Palatine Hill

To visit the Roman Forum / Palatine Hill (it is considered one park even if there are several entrances), you do not need to book in advance.

You can buy this ticket even on the same day of your visit, as long as you do not also plan to visit the Colosseum.

If you want to visit the Colosseum normally, you now can to book online (i.e. in advance), but also at the two ticket offices near by. You probably can get tickets even on the same day even in high season, as long as it's not for anything special like the arena, underground, or a night visit.

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Most museums in Rome

Other than the Galleria Borghese, and Palazzo Farnese, you can count on being able to visit other Rome museums without booking ahead. This includes (but is not limited to):

• Capitoline Museums
• Galleria Doria Pamphilj
• Villa Torlonia

While this page is about what to book in advance in Rome, while you're at it, you might as well book ahead for Florence and Venice too. Here are just a couple of things you should book in advance in those cities:

What to book in advance in Florence

Without a doubt, you should book the Uffizi Gallery , Accademia (where Michelangelo's David is), and the Duomo (cathedral), especially if you want to climb to the top.

What to book in advance in Venice

You can visit the Doge's Palace in Venice on your own, but if you want to book the Secret Itineraries tour at the Doge's Palace , you need to book that in advance.

Plans, trains and automobiles (and hotels)

By booking your trip in advance, you can often get some good deals.

This page is about sites and restaurants to book in advance in Rome.

For more about booking your hotels, flights , cars and trains ahead to save money, visit this page .

And if you're planning to head to Florence (aren't most of you??), don't forget to book your high-speed train from Rome to Florence in advance!

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Top attractions and tours

• Colosseum - Don't miss visiting Rome's most iconic monument
• Vatican Museums - This is where the Sistine Chapel is
• Pantheon - Book ahead and skip the line
• Galleria Borghese - You'll need to book ahead for one of Rome's best museums
• Castel Sant'Angelo - See Rome's history through its architecture
• Rome City Pass - A great way to make your Rome visits easier

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20 Best Things to Do in Rome, According to Locals

From picnicking in the shadow of ancient aqueducts to sipping cocktails at the hottest new rooftop bar, these are the best things to do in Rome.

Laura Itzkowitz is a freelance writer and editor based in Rome. She has been contributing to Travel + Leisure since 2014, when she started as a fact checker before becoming a contributing digital editor in 2015 and going freelance in 2016. She has also held positions as a contributing editor at The Points Guy and the NYC cities editor at DuJour Magazine. In addition to Travel + Leisure , her writing has appeared in Architectural Digest , Surface Magazine , Brooklyn Magazine , T Magazine , The Wall Street Journal , Vogue, GQ, Departures, Afar, Fodor's, Town & Country , Condé Nast Traveler , Robb Report , Hemispheres, and others. When she's not jetsetting around Italy and beyond, she can be found in Rome, enjoying some cacio e pepe or relaxing at home with her husband and two dogs. Originally from the Boston area, Laura moved to New York City in 2011 to pursue a master's degree in creative writing and translation at Columbia University. She also holds a bachelor's degree in French from Smith College. * 10+ years of experience writing and editing * Co-wrote "New York: Hidden Bars & Restaurants," an award-winning guide to New York City's speakeasy scene published by Jonglez Editions in 2015 * Contributed to "Fodor's Brooklyn," published by Penguin Random House in 2015, which won silver in the Lowell Thomas Travel Journalism competition * Contributed an essay to "Epic Hikes of Europe," published by Lonely Planet in 2021 * Updated the 2022 edition of "Fodor's Essential Italy"

© Marco Bottigelli/Getty Images

When planning a trip to Rome, first-time visitors usually want to check the Colosseum and the Vatican off their lists, throw a coin in the Trevi Fountain, and indulge in heaping plates of pasta, pizza, and gelato. And while those things are all worth doing, there’s so much more to do in the Eternal City.

Just consider that aside from the Vatican, Rome is home to more than 900 churches — and many of them contain precious works of art. And the Colosseum is just one of many archeological sites where you can learn more about the Roman Empire. But Rome is far from stuck in the past, and some of the best things to do include seeing modern and contemporary art exhibitions, admiring 1930s architecture, spotting street art, and checking out the city’s swanky new hotels.

Of course, Romans are passionate about food and wine, and everyone has their favorite places for pizza, pasta, gelato, coffee, wine, and cocktails. In fact, it would be easy to plan a whole trip to Rome around meals and aperitivos. You could start your day with a cappuccino at an old-school café, twirl spaghetti carbonara, sip an Aperol spritz at a rooftop bar, eat award-winning pizza, and sample some of the city’s most unusual gelato flavors all in a day.

Having lived in Rome for nearly five years and having visited many times before that, I’ve tried to take advantage of every chance I can get to visit the best museums and archeological sites, explore under-the-radar neighborhoods, peek inside aristocratic palaces, see masterpieces inside churches, and eat my way across the city. But don’t take it from me — I’ve also tapped a couple of in-the-know locals who run some of Rome’s best tour companies for their recommendations. Read on for the 20 best things to do in Rome.

Visit archeological sites beyond the Colosseum.

Tomás Guardia Bencomo/Getty Images

As an archeologist and CEO of the luxury tour company Roma Experience , Elisa Valeria Bove knows all the best archeological sites in and around Rome. Her personal favorite? The Appia Antica and Quintili’s Villa , which is found along the ancient Roman road. “Once called the 'road of fire', for me it is the road of wonders,” she says, calling it “the most romantic and imposing archeological site of Rome.” About a half-hour drive outside the center of Rome, these sites draw only a tiny fraction of the amount of people that crowd the Colosseum, so visiting them is a much more relaxed experience.

Embrace the coffee culture.

piola666/Getty Images

“Every Italian has their neighborhood bar, and Retrobottega is mine,” says Annie Ojile, who runs the Vespa tour company Scooteroma and has been living in Rome for more than 15 years. “I like to have a cold coffee, especially in the summer months, so I’ve fallen in love with espresso tonic, which is espresso on ice with tonic water. It’s fabulous and refreshing.”

For an old-school Italian coffee bar, Bove recommends La Tazza d’Oro near the Pantheon, which opened in 1944 and still roasts its own beans. “In the summer you can have an amazing coffee granita with whipped cream — exactly what’s needed during a tour,” she says.

See artistic treasures at the world’s oldest museum.

Christopher Larson/Travel + Leisure

While the Vatican Museums may be more famous, the Capitoline Museums atop the Capitoline Hill are actually the oldest museum in the world. “Crossing each room, you have a clear idea of the grandiosity of the Roman civilization, from the monarchy, passing through the republic and imperial eras,” says Bove, calling it “the evolution of Rome in one museum — a trip within a trip.” Don’t miss the incredible panoramas of the Roman Forum.

Try the quartet of Roman pastas.

Photo by Rafa Elias/Getty Images

The most classic Roman pastas are essentially variations of the same recipe. Cacio e pepe is made with just pecorino and pepper. Add guanciale (pork cheek) and you’ve got la gricia . Add an egg to la gricia and you’ve got carbonara . Substitute tomato sauce for the egg and you’ve got amatriciana . Try them all at a quintessentially Roman restaurant like Da Enzo al 29 , Checco Er Carettiere , or Salumeria Roscioli and decide which one is your favorite.

Picnic in the shadow of ancient aqueducts.

TFILM/Getty Images

On sunny days — especially weekends and public holidays — locals love to pack a picnic or pop into a deli to grab a sandwich and head out to one of the city’s green, leafy parks. While the most famous and centrally located park is the Villa Borghese, the Parco degli Acquedotti is a local favorite — and you can reach it on the metro. “A stroll here is stepping into the past, a perfect place for a picnic, to run or cycle,” says Bove. “The owners of this spot are the aqueducts: six of the 11 of the ancient city of Rome can be admired in this charming location.”

Shop for local souvenirs.

Courtesy of Booktique

Skip the ubiquitous shops selling cheap souvenirs made elsewhere and support small local businesses instead. “What I love about Booktique is that the owners’ history is with books and museum shops and they have a way to present all their treasures in a very interesting, cheeky, chic way,” says Ojile. “I buy every single gift there, and I’m not exaggerating at all. I also buy myself many gifts there — candles, hand soap, art for my house, canvas bags.” Booktique has two locations near the Pantheon and Piazza Navona.

Find all the Caravaggios in Rome.

Michelangelo Merisi (better known as Caravaggio) was one of the masters of Baroque painting. He was particularly known for using a technique called chiaroscuro , which is essentially the dramatic contrast between light and dark. There are about 25 of his works in Rome, many of which can be seen in museums such as Galleria Borghese , Palazzo Barberini , and the aforementioned Capitoline Museums, as well as churches like San Luigi dei Francesi, Santa Maria del Popolo, and Sant’Agostino. You could go on a treasure hunt looking for them all.

Stroll down Via Margutta, the artists’ street.

adisa/Getty Images

Tucked away between the Spanish Steps and Piazza del Popolo, the charming, cobblestoned Via Margutta is known as the artists’ street because historically, it was a hub for artists, including Picasso, and there are still many art galleries there today. Bove calls it, “A peaceful place in the heart of Rome, just a few minutes from the crowded Spanish Steps, to get lost in the magnificent art galleries and discover the painters of Via Margutta.”

Via Margutta also has some fascinating cinematic history. Famed filmmaker Federico Fellini lived on this street (there’s a plaque on his building) and part of "Roman Holiday" starring Audrey Hepburn and Gregory Peck was filmed in the same apartment complex where Picasso lived. For a unique souvenir, stop by La Bottega del Marmoraro , where artisan Sandro Fiorentino still carves marble plaques by hand — many with witty phrases.

Visit a winery on the outskirts of the city.

Courtesy of Tenuta di Fiorano

Did you know there are vineyards and wineries on the edges of Rome? Bove’s favorite, Tenuta di Fiorano , is owned by Prince Alessandrojacopo Boncompagni Ludovisi. “It doesn’t happen every day that a prince welcomes you in his estate like an old friend,” she remarks. “I always admired the will he has to respect the history of his family and the territory where he decided to plant his vineyard, creating one of the excellences of Italy.”

Try unusual gelato flavors.

krblokhin/Getty Images

There are plenty of excellent gelaterias all over the city, but to taste some unusual flavors, you have to go to Torcè . “They have these unusual flavors like black sesame. I tried their tomato gelato, which is excellent with mozzarella. Torcè has done phenomenal things,” says Bove. In addition to their award-winning Majani chocolate gelato, they make savory flavors like gorgonzola, carbonara, and cacio e pepe.

Go street art hunting.

Marilla Sicilia/Archivio Marilla Sicilia/Mondadori Portfolio via Getty Images

“Street art has an expiration date — you never know how long the piece is going to last — so it’s always fun to go find new pieces,” says Ojile. “I just love gliding over the cobblestones on my cherry red wheels and making random stops when I find new or revisit old pieces of street art.” Ojile recommends exploring neighborhoods like Testaccio, Ostiense, and Garbatella, where there’s a proliferation of murals and paste art. You can also see some cool street art in San Lorenzo and Pigneto, which are two of the city’s most up-and-coming neighborhoods.

See an ancient monument and modern art at the Ara Pacis.

Photo Beto/Getty Images

“The year after I moved to Rome, they started building the Ara Pacis and I will always remember that there was this big scandal because it was the first new piece of architecture to be built in the historic center since Mussolini’s era,” Ojile recalls. The sleek, white building was designed by Richard Meier to house the ancient Altar of Peace built for Emperor Augustus. Upstairs you can see the ancient altar, while the lower level shows rotating exhibitions dedicated to modern art, design, cinema, or photography. “Now I live five minutes from it and they have really stellar photography shows and exhibitions and I absolutely love it. I go to every show,” Ojile says.

Peek inside aristocratic palaces.

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Want to see how Roman nobility lived? A handful of aristocratic palaces have been opened up as museums, allowing visitors to glimpse at their incredible art collections and opulent décor. Palazzo Colonna , which was a filming location for "Roman Holiday," is open on Friday and Saturday mornings. Palazzo Doria Pamphilj , meanwhile, has a gorgeous hall of mirrors inspired by the one at Versailles. Villa Farnesina in Trastevere contains breathtaking frescoes by Raphael.

Have an aperitivo at a rooftop bar.

At the end of the day, there are few experiences as magical as sipping a drink while watching the sunset over the city’s terracotta rooftops. Luckily Rome has plenty of rooftop bars to choose from. Bove’s pick is Otivm Roof Bar overlooking the Capitoline Hill, while Ojile raves about Terrazza Flores above El Porteño, a chic Argentinian restaurant. “This is where you’ll find me this summer soaking in the gorgeous views and sipping on my Porteño cocktail,” she says.

Try one of the city’s new wave of pizzerias.

Courtesy of Seu Pizza Illuminati

Pizza never went out of style, but lately there are more and more pizzerias upping the ante with creative offerings and top-notch quality. Rome has 10 pizzerias ranked among the best in Italy by the judges at Top 50 Pizza. Among the top are Seu Pizza Illuminati in Trastevere, which serves gourmet Neapolitan-style pizza by Pier Daniele Seu; 180 Grammi in the up-and-coming neighborhood of Centocelle, where pizzaiolo Jacopo Mercuro makes thin-crust Roman pizza with all kinds of creative toppings; and Sbanco , where the dough is somewhere in between Neapolitan and Roman style and the fritti (fried appetizers) are divine.

Sip cutting-edge cocktails at Drink Kong.

Courtesy of Drink Kong

For Ojile, a perfect night out starts with dinner in Monti at a restaurant like Rocco or La Taverna dei Fori Imperiali and ends at Drink Kong , which is ranked as one of the world’s 50 best bars. “It’s like an ‘80s dreamland with amazing cocktails,” she notes. The aesthetic is inspired by Japanese film noir and the wildly creative drinks are dreamt up by Irish-Italian bartender Patrick Pistolesi, who has been a fixture on the city’s nightlife scene for decades.

Book a stay at a luxury hotel.

Courtesy of Bulgari Hotel Roma

Rome is having a hospitality renaissance , with one luxe five-star hotel opening after the next. Some of the buzziest recent openings include It List hotel the Six Senses Rome , a sleek, modern hotel for wellness and sustainability-minded travelers; the Bulgari Hotel Rome , known for its gorgeous design and restaurant by Michelin-starred chef Niko Romito; the Rome Edition , which occupies a Rationalist building near Via Veneto and has a restaurant by the team behind cult-favorite spot Pianostrada (also on the It List); and Anantara Palazzo Naiadi , which has a cool rooftop restaurant and a gourmet restaurant on the ground floor.

Venture out to EUR.

Pino Pacifico/REDA&CO/Universal Images Group via Getty Images

The neighborhood known as EUR on the southern edge of Rome is a must-see destination for fans of 1930s and ‘40s Rationalist architecture. Mussolini built the neighborhood for the Esposizione Universale Romana of 1942, which never took place because of the Second World War. The most alluring building, architecturally speaking, is the Palazzo della Civiltà Italiana (better known as the Colosseo Quadrato, or Square Colosseum), which now houses Fendi’s headquarters. EUR is also home to an amusement park called Luneur Park , the Nuvola Convention Center , and a location of Torcè.

See the Cinecittà Film Studios.

Gianmarco Dettori/Getty Images

Rome was once known as “Hollywood on the Tiber” because so many movies were filmed here. While some were filmed on location, many were shot at Cinecittà Studios , which is still an active filming studio. Part of it is open to visitors, including several exhibitions dedicated to film history (there’s one all about Fellini). You can visit the exhibitions on your own or sign up for a guided tour to learn more about the studio’s history and see the set of HBO’s Rome .

Sample wine at an enoteca.

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An enoteca is essentially just a wine bar, but they can range from simple and spartan to classy, elegant affairs. They usually have a wide selection of bottles and often a good variety of wines by the glass. Some just have small bites like meat and cheese boards, while others have full menus. For the best enoteca in Rome, Bove recommends Achilli al Parlamento , saying they have “an incredible selection of wine labels at cost price. If you are a lover of great wines, you can’t skip this place.”

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The Best Way to Get Around Rome – All You Need to Know

I’m often asked what’s the best way to get around Rome. For short vacations spent in the city center, we can agree that on foot is certainly one of the best and favorite ways to get around Rome.

The answer to this popular question, however, is not a short one. Rome is a huge city, so there is not one single way to get around, but much depends on where you are staying and where you want to go.

There are many ways to get around Rome. In this handy article, I’m going to guide you through how to get around Rome and what means of transportation to choose whether you are staying in the city center or not, and also depending on where you need to go.

Are you ready? Read on and plan your best and smoothest Rome trip!

Table of Contents

How to get around Rome – Full guide to navigating the city

This is my favorite and for sure one of the best ways to get around Rome if you have booked your room in the city center and this is where your holiday will mainly take place. Rome’s city center is pretty walkable. Even though quite large and consisting of different areas, walking around the central districts of Rome is just like visiting a museum with the perk that it’s free.

Of course, from the Vatican to the Capitoline Museums is not a short walk, but if you plan your trip properly and make daily itineraries, you will be able to do all or most of your holiday on foot. In fact, if you are staying in Rome for a day only and it’s your first, I would suggest spending 24 hours in the city center as there is plenty to see and do.

If you are staying longer, the best thing you can do is draw daily itineraries so each day you have a more compact area to visit and you can walk in between landmarks. If you are staying far from the city center, you can reach by public transport in the morning and walk for the rest of the day you want to spend downtown.

Rome buses are run essentially by two companies, ATAC and TPL. ATAC is the public company of Rome’s municipality and runs most buses, especially in the city center. Taking the bus is convenient when there is no metro or train where you are going because usually, the bus takes longer.

Unlike metro and trains, in fact, buses mostly run through general roads and often get stuck. There are also devoted bus and taxi lanes across Rome, but not everywhere, so buses are not always faster than cars and immune to traffic jams.

If you decide to use Rome’s public transport , you can purchase single tickets with a 100-minute validity, 1 full day, a week, or even a month. With a single ticket, which costs €1.50, you can do 1 train ride, 1 metro ride, and unlimited bus rides always within its validity.

Rome’s metro is one of the best and fastest ways to get around Rome. Unfortunately, it doesn’t cover a very widespread network. There are two lines, A e B, and in the past few years, they have been opening the third line, C, and gradually opening more stations.

This is great because it considerably expands the metro network, but it’s still extremely limited considering the size of Rome. Let’s just say that Rome’s metro is nowhere near London’s or Shanghai’s metros.

If your route has metro stations, this is definitely how to get around Rome if you are short on time and want to avoid traffic. Unless you have specific appointments, I suggest avoiding rush hours both in the morning and in the afternoon because the trains get extra packed and uncomfortable.

Using the tram is also a good way to get around Rome. It’s similar to taking the bus, so street level, but trams have their own stops and usually their own platforms. Trams are also faster than buses because they have their lanes, and while sometimes cars can cross them, trams have the right of way and anyway never stop to let anyone pass!

Usually, after train and metron, the tram is my go-to mean of transportation in Rome because it gets less stuck in traffic than buses. Some of the trams you will find in the city center include n. 8 from Casaletto to Piazza Venezia across Trastevere and Largo Argentina, and n. 19 connecting the Vatican and Prati areas to the neighborhoods around Villa Borghese, Nomentano, and Esquilino.

The train is another of my favorite means of transportation and one of the best ways to get around Rome. Maybe because I live near a train station and it gets me just about everywhere. The railway line that crosses my neighborhood connects us to metro lines A and B, and several other major train stations such as Tiburtina, Ostiense, Trastevere, and San Pietro.

The urban railway in Rome is great because quite widespread and connects the whole city with the suburbs. I live near an A90 highway exit and yet in 20 minutes by train, I’m in the San Pietro station, with only one train change I arrive at Termini station, and in about 30 minutes I reach Trastevere station.

If you need to get around Rome far from the city center, or at night, or to an area that’s not well served by public transport, you can call a taxi. Taxis in Rome are pretty much everywhere, either in specific stations from where they gather and depart, or running around the city.

If you see a taxi, you can wave to call it but make sure it’s not taken. If the light on top is on, it’s either already on a call or there are passengers inside the car.

You can also call a taxi in Rome at the local number 063570 and book an appointment even from the day before specifying the time and place.

I hardly recommend driving in Rome because of its mental traffic, hard time finding a parking space, and the ZTL that doesn’t allow you to access the city center, making it difficult if you want to book here your hotel.

However, if Rome is a stop in your longer Italy trip and you have rented a car, there are a few things you should keep in mind. First of all, it depends on how many days you are spending in Rome . If you stay only 1 or 2 days, you can keep your car parked and get around Rome by public transport.

On the other hand, if you are staying in Rome for 4 days or even a week , you need to think if it’s the case to drop off the car and rent it again when you are leaving for the next destination in your Italy itinerary .

Best way to get around Rome – FAQ

What is the cheapest mode of transport in rome.

The cheapest mode of transport in Rome is the train because a single ticket with Trenitalia is 1€ as opposed to the €1.50 of the ATAC tickets. However, if you buy a single ticket from Trenitalia, you are only buying a train ride while using an ATAC single ticket, you pay €0.50 more but you have 1 metro ride, unlimited bus and tram rides, and also 1 train ride.

So if you know you are going to need a bus or the metro once you get off the train, you need to buy an ATAC ticket, otherwise, you will end up paying more! To use the bus and metro, in fact, Trenitalia fares are not valid.

How do most people get around in Rome?

Romans drive a lot. In general, in Italy, you will notice that people love to go anywhere by car. In Rome, however, many also opt for public transport, especially if they need to go to central neighborhoods where there is the ZTL or if it’s rush hour because the traffic can get really stuck.

Often, citizens coming from the towns around Rome or the suburbs drive to the nearest train station, park their cars, and move around the city by public transport. This is a much more doable option than driving everywhere because, on weekdays, traffic gets really mad.

Does Rome have Uber?

Rome has also Uber , but it’s not the cheap lift service you know from the U.S. In fact, Uber in Italy is only allowed to use its luxury services like UberBlack, UberLux, and UberVan. The popular UberPop option where any private driver can register and provide lifts without any government-issued authorization, in Italy is not allowed.

About The Author: Angela Corrias

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written by Joanne Owen

updated 31.05.2024

So, here’s the thing. Though undeniably romantic, Rome is also very, very hectic. Even crossing the road can feel akin to undertaking a gladiatorial challenge, and its labyrinthine historic areas can be confusing to navigate. All of which means, it can feel like it might take an eternity to get to grips with getting around the Eternal City. I learned this the hard way during my first trip to the city. For example, getting lost in Trastevere ahead of meeting some Roman mates for lunch wasn’t my finest hour. To save you from making the same mistakes, read on to find how I navigated Rome like a pro (eventually).

Pre-trip preparation

First impressions and challenges, navigating public transport, walking the streets like a local, dealing with traffic and crowds.

As any seasoned traveller knows — whether you’re heading to a remote village in a far-flung tropical destination, or a closer-to-home city — it’s advisable to do plenty of pre-trip prep before you hit the road. Says the person who failed on that front when it came to navigating Trastevere. Anyway, moving on!

Do your research

In terms of pre-trip planning ahead of travelling to Rome, I found a bunch of travel blogs useful in terms of figuring out what I most wanted to see and do in a limited time, and working out how I was going to get around Rome to fit everything in.

Rome Toolkit is pretty great when it comes to insider intel on how to get around, along with detail on airports , sightseeing, and top trips to take from Rome .

If you want to wise-up on local events and concerts, check out Romeing and Romewise . The latter also shares tips on the likes of non-touristy places to grab a coffee, gelato or full-on authentic food near stacks of top attractions. 

Last (but by no means least) on the pre-trip reseach front, you might want to read our travel tips for Rome , and get your hands on The Rough Guide to Rome . 

Yep, I’m definitely biased, but it’s packed with info on every area that’ll help you decide where you want to stay in Rome , and the top things to do when you’re in town. 

Once you’ve done that, you’ll be able to give more thought to start how to get from A to B once you’ve arrived. The Rough Guide will help you do that, too, by the way (it’s also packed with maps), but back to more personal pre-trip planning tips before I share tips on getting around.

 Fountain di Trevi in Rome ©  trabantos/Shutterstock

Arm yourself with navigation tools and apps

I could have done with following this advice I first time I visited Rome — they definitely helped my subsequent trips.

In terms of handy transport apps, check out ATAC Roma — the official app for Rome's public transport authority. You can use it to plan routes and buy tickets.

MyCicero also helps with trip planning and public transport schedules, while Roma Mobile provides real-time info on public transport, including routes, schedules, and delays.

As for maps, it goes without saying that Google and Citymapper will be your best friend — look to download offline maps where possible. That certainly came in handy when my phone battery died on me in the middle of the Forum and I had no idea how get across town to meet a friend for lunch.

Another tool that’s come in massively handy when planning countless trips around the world is  Rome2Rio . You just have to plug in your desired start and end destination and it’ll give you the lowdown on every mode of transport, with estimated journey times and estimated costs.

Learn from locals

While you’ll certainly have no trouble navigating Rome with little-to-no Italian, I found having a few phrases in my armoury pretty useful. That way you can at least ask for directions politely even if you struggle to understand the reply!

Oh, and ahead of travelling, a native Roman friend advised me to forget pricey taxis, and take a bus from the airport to the centre of town — more detail on that below.

Piazza del Popolo (People's Square) in Rome © Shutterstock

On arrival in Fiumicino Airport (Leonardo da Vinci), I already knew to look for the bus stop to get into the centre. On my first trip, I didn’t know I needed be at Terminal 3 — the departure point for most buses — which left me frustrated trying to figure out where the buses were in a busy airport

So, save yourself the time and hassle of aimless wandering by buying your bus ticket in advance and checking the departure point so you can head straight there after collecting your luggage. 

A few companies run shuttles from Fiumicino Airport to the centre of Rome e.g. Terravision, SIT Bus Shuttle, TAM Bus and Cotral. Do your research to check costs and routes to pick the service that’ll get you closest to where you need to be. 

Most services end at Termini Station — the central railway station. It’ll take around 45 minutes to an hour to get here. Being a major transport hub, Termini is very, very hectic, so it’s advisable to pre-plan your onward route from here. 

To avoid get caught in the craziness of crowds and confusing signs, figure out which metro or onward bus you need to take before you arrive. This certainly saved me a whole lot of time and stress when I reached Termini. 

Landing in Ciampino Airport? You could take a 10-minute bus to Ciampino Train Station and jump onto a 15-minute train to Termini from here.

Alternatively, a few bus companies operate direct services to the centre. This might be the best option if you’re loaded down with bulky bags  — lugging luggage on and off buses and trains multiple times isn't much fun!

When it comes to getting around Rome, do your research and plan routes in advance Rome © Shutterstock

While Rome is a wonderful city to wander on foot (once you’ve got used to the traffic and have your bearings — more on that later), you’ll almost certainly want to explore further afield and make use of public transport. Here’s an overview of exactly that.

Compared with other European cities, Rome’s metro system has limited coverage — three main lines that don’t extend to all the key tourist areas. 

That said, Line A (orange) runs from Battistini to Anagnina and serves lots of major attractions, including the Vatican museums (Cipro), Spanish Steps (Spagna) and Trevi Fountain (Barberini).

Line A intersects with Line B (blue) at Termini, and runs from Laurentina to Rebibbia/Conca d'Oro, with stops near the Colosseum (Colosseo) and Circus Maximus (Circo Massimo). Meanwhile, Line C (green) runs from Monte Compatri/Pantano to San Giovanni.

Vatican Gardens from the dome of St. Peter's Basilica © Shutterstock

Running from early morning until midnight, with handy night buses available on certain routes (look out for the “N” prefix), Rome’s bus network covers areas not serviced by the metro or trams. 

Termini, Piazza Venezia, and Largo di Torre Argentina are major bus hubs to have on your radar.

Generally less crowded than buses and the metro, six tram lines cover scenic routes that complement the bus and metro networks.

Most tourists find themselves becoming familiar with Tram 8, which runs from  Piazza Venezia to Trastevere. Another route worth having on your radar is Tram 19 — it connects areas like San Lorenzo, Villa Borghese and the Vatican.

Villa Borghese, Rome © Shutterstock

Tips and tricks for using public transport in Rome

It’s fair to say, buying tickets for public transport in Rome can be pretty confusing. Knowing the best tickets to buy depends on how long you’re in town, and the specific journeys you intend to make. 

For example, I’d have been better off buying a CIS (Carta Integrata Settimanale)   ticket offering unlimited travel for seven days. I was only there for five days, but that would have worked out cheaper — and more convenient — than buying BIT tickets (Biglietto Integrato a Tempo), a single ticket valid that’s valid for 100 minutes.

Another option is to get a Roma 24H, 48H or 72H ticket, which gives you   unlimited travel for (you guessed it) 24, 48 or 72 hours.

Whichever ticket you decide is best for you, remember to validate it as soon as you board a bus or tram — look out for the machines. Being distracted by busy crowds, or simply forgetting, is a common pitfall, and fines can be hefty.

Spanish Steps, Piazza di Spagna, Rome © Shutterstock

One thing I was aware of before visiting Rome was that fact that many areas I wanted to visit are also easy to get lost in — hello Trastevere, Centro Storico and the Monti District! So, it’s best to plan your walking routes in advance.

I also found it useful to orient myself using major landmarks, and to try to remember how turns I’d made while wandering around. No easy feat when one maze of alleys and piazzas leads to another and before you know it, you’re lost!

With that in mind, it’s a good idea to download offline maps with your intended walking routes mapped out. While few things beat going off-piste as a result of making discoveries along the way (in my case, seeing signs for a vintage market in Trastevere), it’s worth having easy access to tools to get you back on track.

That way, freed from stress around the possibility of getting lost, you’ll be able to embrace “La Dolce Vita” with more verve, taking time to linger in cafés, and live in the moment. 

Related, it’s worth not trying to pack too much into your daily plans and walking routes. While you won’t want to miss seeing the city’s celebrated top tourist attractions, allocating extended stretches of time to explore specific districts on foot is the best way to really get to know Rome.

For example, I’m so glad I devoted an entire day to the Monti District during my second trip to Rome. Sitting between the Colosseum, Trevi Fountain and Termini station, Monti is hardly off the beaten track, and yet it somehow feels a million miles from well-trod tourist trails. 

Loaded with vintage shops, indie boutiques, and cute little trattorias, with the Colosseum looming large over the Via degli Annibaldi, it’s charming, laidback and understatedly cool.

Rome's Monti district © Tupungato/Shutterstock

As I said at the start, Rome is rather hectic at the best of times, so you’ll want to avoid using public transport or taking taxis during peak hours. 

This means not using buses, trams or the metro from 7.30-9.30 and 17.00-19.30 if you can help it. If you’re travelling by car, the busiest times extend from around 7-9.30, and 16.30-19.30.

As a general rule, visiting top attractions — the Colosseum and Roman Forum, the Vatican museums and St. Peter’s Basilica, Trevi Fountain, the Spanish Steps   and the Pantheon — is best done as soon as they open, which is usually around 8.30.

In the case of the Trevi Fountain, after passing it a few times during the day, when it was nigh impossible to see it, let alone get a decent photo, I decided to make a special effort to head there very, very early in the morning.

I then had enough time to walk on to the Forum (it took around 20 minutes) before crowds descended there, too. 

Another general tip is to check out buying skip-the-line tickets for the likes of these very popular sights. Also bear in mind that some attractions offer evening tours, which can be less crowded.

Joanne is a Pembrokeshire-born writer with a passion for the nature, cultures and histories of the Caribbean region, especially Dominica. Also passionate about inspiring a love of adventure in young people, she’s the author of several books for children and young adults, hosts international writing workshops, and has written articles on the Caribbean and inspirational community initiatives for Rough Guides. Follow her @JoanneOwen on Twitter and @joanneowenwrites on Instagram.

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An Easy Travel Guide to Rome, Italy

V isiting the Eternal City for the first time? Rome is one of the most visited cities in Italy and we created an easy travel guide to Rome so that you know the best things to see and do.

In this post, we’re sharing all we’ve learned from our vacations in Rome to help you plan your getaway. We’ll cover the most popular neighborhoods, the best things to see and do, how to get around in Rome, the best time of the year to visit, how to get to central Rome from FCO Airport, and tips for traveling.

Where is Rome

Rome is located in the region of Lazio, near the and is undoubtedly one of the most popular destinations in Italy. It has the highest population of all cities in Italy and sits about 1 hour from the western coast.

And when it comes to tourism, it’s no surprise that visitors from around the globe travel to Rome to see its beauty and Renaissance art, experience Roman cuisine and Italian cooking , shop the fashion capital, discover the piazzas and fountains, explore the historical landmarks, or even practice Italian phrases that they’ve learned.

The various neighborhoods are the most widely visited by tourists because they are where most attractions can be found. Traveling through the city is easy on foot, but you should also consider the Rome sightseeing bus or the Rome golf cart tours .

The Best Time of Year to Visit Rome

Rome can be extremely uncomfortable in the summer months (primarily June through September). In April and May, the spring temperatures are nice, the mornings are cool, and by noon you probably won’t need a jacket.

The Best Things to See and Do (by Neighborhood)

Each neighborhood of Rome has museums, churches, gardens, parks, and iconic spots to visit. This list gives a brief description of each district, and helps you understand what to see in each neighborhood. It will come in handy for deciding where to stay in Rome while planning your trip.

You may need to take public transportation to reach a specific neighborhood depending on where you stay. However, once you arrive, the area is completely walkable and getting from one point of interest to another is easy.

Modern Center

This neighborhood is located around Via Veneto and the Spanish Steps, the Modern Center neighborhood combines classic and contemporary influences. It has a mix of upscale boutiques, trendy cafes, and luxurious hotels, making it a hub for shopping, dining, and experiencing the modern side of Rome.

Palazzo del Quirinale

Complesso delle Quattro Fontane

Trevi Fountain

Galleria Nazionale d’Arte Antica a Pallazo

Santa Maria degli Angeli e dei Martiri

Castro Pretorio

Chiesa di Santa Maria della Vittoria

Museo e Cripto dei Frati Cappuccini

The heart of Rome’s historic center, the Old Rome neighborhood captivates with its cobblestone streets, charming piazzas, and awe-inspiring landmarks like the Pantheon and Piazza Navona.

Scalinta di Trinita dei Monti (Spanish Steps)

Museo dell’Ara Pacis

Campo de’ Fiori

Palazza Farnese

Piazza Navona

Museo di Roma Palazzo Braschi

Chiesa di San Luigi dei Francesi

Chiesa di Sant’Agnese in Agone

By far this is the most popular neighborhood in Rome for travelers. Trastevere is a bohemian neighborhood located on the west bank of the Tiber River. It is known for it narrow, winding streets, nightlife, and charming piazzas. Trastevere has a lively atmosphere with trendy bars, and traditional trattorias.

Villa Farnesina

Galleria Corsini

Basilica di Santa Maria

Orto Botanico

Home to the iconic Colosseum, the Colosseum neighborhood in Rome immerses visitors in ancient history as they explore the grandeur of the Roman Empire, marvel at ancient ruins, and soak in the architectural splendor of this UNESCO World Heritage site.

Roman Forum

Palatine Hill

Bocca della Verita

Circo Massimo

Piazza Venezia

Altare della Patria

Aventino – Tastaccio

Testaccio is a historic working-class neighborhood that has transformed into a culinary hotspot. It offers a vibrant food scene with traditional trattorias, gourmet restaurants, and a bustling food market.

Basilicia di San Giovanni

Terme di Caracalla

Knights of Malta Keyhole

Esquilino – San Giovanni

Located near Termini Station, the Esquilino neighborhood is a melting pot of cultures and flavors. Known for its diverse immigrant communities, Esquilino is a mix of ethnic restaurants, colorful markets, and architectural gems like the Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore.

Basilica Papale di Santa Maria Maggiore

Palazzo Massimo alle Terme

Museo Nazionale Romano

Basilica di San Pietro in Vincole

Nomentano combines residential tranquility with commercial areas. This neighborhood is characterized by its leafy parks, elegant villas, and the iconic University La Sapienza. There is a mix of students, locals, and dining. Nomentano has a relaxed and intellectual atmosphere.

Sapienza University

North Center

The North Center neighborhood of Rome, encompassing areas like Villa Borghese and Parioli, presents a more tranquil and residential atmosphere. With its leafy parks, elegant villas, and cultural institutions like the Galleria Borghese, this area provides a peaceful retreat from the city center.

• Museo e Galleria Borghese
• Villa Borghese
• La Galleria Nazionale
• Museo Nazionale Etrusce di Villa Guilia

Vatican City

Vatican City is the smallest independent state in the world and the spiritual center of Catholicism. Home to St. Peter’s Basilica, the Vatican Museums, and the Sistine Chapel, this iconic neighborhood offers a rich blend of religious significance, magnificent art, and awe-inspiring architecture.

St. Peter’s Basilica

Vatican Gardens

Vatican Museums

Castel Sant’Angelo

Southern Rome

The southern part of Rome is less touristy and has an authentic atmosphere that portrays a taste of local Roman life. From food markets and traditional trattorias to vibrant street art and a strong sense of community, Southern Rome provides a glimpse into the city’s everyday charm.

Via Appia Antica

Catacombe di San Sebastiano

Catacombe di San Callisto

Museo Capitoline Centrale Montemartini

How to Get Around Rome

Getting around the cobbled-stoned streets of Rome is not hard. I’ve walked, biked, and bused throughout Rome and loved it! All are great ways to get around and the method you choose depends on how much time you have and your personal preference.

I recommend the  Big Bus Tour  or a Golf Cart Tour in Rome if you are short on time or if you booked your travel in the dead heat of summer (which can be intensely hot).

With these tours, you’ll see all the top Rome attractions with audio commentary in your language of choice. If you choose an open top tour bus, the added benefit is free wi-fi and for 3 extra euros, you can use your ticket for two days (it is worth it).

When it comes to seeing Rome, walking can not be avoided especially when getting to an attraction that require climbing hilly pathways or navigating ancient streets. In my opinion, being on foot is one of the best ways to travel in Rome.

Exploring the narrow streets can lead you to the most marvelous pasta, the creamiest gelato, or the most perfect pasta! I highly recommend visiting the Trastevere neighborhood for  Italian street food . 

Public Transportation

This is the best option for getting to a part of town that is more than 20 minutes on foot, especially if visiting a museum or park. Save your energy and use public transportation for less than 2 euros. You can purchase them at the tobacconist store.

You will need to validate your ticket upon boarding the bus (it’s an honor system). Getting caught with an un-validated ticket can result in a fine. You should also use a really good map of Rome. 

Bike or Vespa

Peddling around the city on your own time feels so liberating. Bike rental is very affordable and is an enjoyable way to experience the outdoors, get some exercise to make up for all the  Italian breakfasts  that you eat, and explore Rome.

You can find rentals for as little as 13 euros for 24 hours, complete with lock, for a standard bike. The price for e-bikes is higher.

Getting around on a two-passenger scooter is loads of fun!  Rent a Vespa to skirt traffic or explore outside the city. They can be rented by the hour or day. This will make your trip to Rome memorable as you travel in true Italian style!

How to Get to Central Rome from FCO Airport

There are several options to get from Leonardo da Vinci International Airport to the center of the city. I found the train to be the quickest and most affordable especially if you’ve had a long day of travel and want to get to Termini station.  

The most economical way to get from the airport to the city center is via a shuttle bus service from the airport. You can travel conveniently between Rome’s city center and the airport and take pleasure in a stress-free arrival or departure from the city.

The ride takes about 50 minutes and departures run from the airport every 30 to 40 minutes so you have time to collect your luggage. Shuttles stop in Terminal 3’s arrivals section. Look for the respective service at the arrival platform.

Terravision offers a shuttle service for less than 8 euros it’s quite popular. The buses are air-conditioned and there is no cost to bring your luggage aboard. It goes directly to Termini station with no extra stops. 

Another option is the public transportation system, which costs about 6 euros. The bus stops multiple times in the city center, including one close to the Vatican and one at Termini Station, throughout the 45- to 1-hour one-way trip.

Buses halt in Terminal 3’s arrivals section, at number 14. You can purchase tickets at the airport desk or online. 

A taxi is quite expensive. It will set you back almost 50 euros and the ride takes just as long as a shuttle service (about 50 minutes). You can find the taxis at the arrival level of Terminal 1 and Terminal 3.

The Leonardo Express train is less than 20 euros and runs every 15 minutes during peak periods. It is operated by Trenitalia and the ride takes about 30 to 40 minutes.

If you wait to collect your luggage, and then make your way to the window or kiosk to purchase your ticket, note that many others will be doing the same. Hate long lines? You can purchase tickets in advance and be ready for validation after boarding the train.

I can’t recommend a car rental unless you plan a day trip and need a set of wheels. Rome is completely walkable. Not to mention, even Italians know that finding a parking space can be a hassle.

Tips for Visiting Rome

I adore visiting Italy. And no trip would be complete without seeing some of the most iconic and historic spots in the Eternal City.

Don’t make the mistake (that I made on my first trip) and skip these incredible spots! Fortunately, I was able to see them on return visits!

Whether you are visiting the Vatican for the first time or returning because you tossed a coin into the Trevi fountain, these Rome travel tips will come in handy to make your stay enjoyable.

• Be prepared! Read these tips on the essentials for an international flight .
• Think comfort when flying coach , it will help you stay calm and confident.
• Beware of scammers, pickpockets, and panhandlers. It’s a thing in Europe and it can happen when you least expect it. 

So, what are you waiting for? Book that flight to Rome and thank me later.