Things to do in Rome
Ancient ruins, Baroque fountains and pasta worth crossing the city for. Here is how to spend a few perfect days in the Italian capital.
St Peter's Basilica
One of the largest churches in the world. Stepping into Vatican City feels like entering a different era.
A Rome city break: what to expect
There are so many things to do in Rome that a first visit can feel overwhelming. The good news is that much of the historic centre is compact, so you can walk from the Colosseum to the Pantheon and on to the Spanish Steps in an afternoon, stopping for espresso along the way.
Rome is the capital of Italy and one of the great European city breaks, with direct flights from airports across the UK. Use this guide to plan the sights, and see our guide to Italy holidays for where to go next.
The Colosseum
You cannot visit Rome for the first time without seeing the Colosseum. Buy tickets in advance to skip the longest queues.
Ancient Rome: the Colosseum and the Forum
Start with the Colosseum, the vast amphitheatre where gladiators once fought in front of tens of thousands of spectators. Book tickets online before you go, and read up on its history first, so the stones come to life.
Next door, the Roman Forum and the Palatine Hill show what the heart of the ancient city looked like. Wear comfortable shoes and bring water, as there is little shade in summer.
Churches, fountains and the Vatican
St Peter's Basilica is one of the largest churches in the world, and the scale alone makes it worth the visit. Plan ahead if you also want to see the Vatican Museums and the Sistine Chapel, as tickets can sell out in busy periods.
Our writer was even more impressed by Santa Maria Maggiore, the largest church in Rome dedicated to the Virgin Mary. In the evening, walk to the Pantheon and the Trevi Fountain, when the crowds thin out and the mood turns romantic. Coins thrown into the fountain are donated to the charity Caritas.
The Trevi Fountain
Throw a coin over your shoulder and, so the legend goes, you will return to Rome. Come in the evening for a calmer atmosphere.
Shopping and food in Rome
Via Condotti, at the foot of the Spanish Steps, is lined with designer boutiques. For something more personal, head to Via dei Coronari for antiques and Via del Governo Vecchio for vintage fashion.
Food is one of the best reasons to visit. Do a little research to avoid tourist traps, look for small family-run trattorias, and try Roman classics such as cacio e pepe and carbonara, or a simple aglio e olio. Read about the bistro, sandwich bar and family restaurant we loved in I fell totally in love with Rome on my first trip.
Castel Sant'Angelo by night
An evening stroll along the Tiber is one of the most romantic things to do in Rome.
Where to stay in Rome
For a first visit, stay in the historic centre, around the Spanish Steps, Piazza Navona or the Pantheon, so you can walk to most of the sights. Trastevere, across the Tiber, has a village feel and lively evenings, while Prati, near the Vatican, is quieter.
For a special stay, see our selection of historic hotels for the ultimate Roman experience.
When is the best time to visit Rome?
Spring and autumn are the best times to visit Rome. From April to early June, and in September and October, the weather is warm enough for long days outdoors without the intense heat of high summer.
July and August are hot and busy, and many locals leave the city around mid-August. Winter is mild and quieter, a good choice if you mainly want museums, churches and long lunches.
Frequently asked questions about Rome
How many days do you need in Rome?
Three days is enough to see the main sights in Rome at a comfortable pace: one day for the Colosseum and the Forum, one for the Vatican, and one for the Pantheon, the Trevi Fountain, shopping and food. With four or five days, you can add day trips or simply slow down and enjoy the city.
Is Rome expensive?
Rome is cheaper than many other European capitals, but prices vary a lot. Hotels in the centre and restaurants right by the big sights can be pricey, while a coffee at the bar, a slice of pizza or a meal in a neighbourhood trattoria is often good value. Booking accommodation early also helps.
What is the best area to stay in Rome for first-timers?
The best area for first-timers is the historic centre, around the Pantheon, Piazza Navona or the Spanish Steps, as you can walk to most of the main sights from there. Trastevere suits those who want restaurants and nightlife, while Prati near the Vatican is calmer and well connected by metro.
Can you drink tap water in Rome?
Yes, tap water in Rome is safe to drink. The city also has hundreds of public drinking fountains, known as nasoni, where you can refill a bottle for free while sightseeing. It is an easy way to stay hydrated on hot days and to cut down on plastic bottles.