Things to Do in Rome: Unique Activities & Local Spots
- Sierra Busch
- 16 hours ago
- 19 min read
Rome - the Eternal City. Just hearing the name conjures images of ancient ruins, Renaissance masterpieces, and endless plates of cacio e pepe. But here's what we've learned after years of leading travelers through Rome's cobblestone streets: the best things to do in Rome aren't always the ones in the guidebooks!
Don't get us wrong - the Colosseum is magnificent, and the Vatican Museums will leave you speechless. But what about the Sunday antique market where locals hunt for treasures? The hidden hills with secret keyhole views? The perfect neighborhood trattoria where Romans actually eat? The beautiful park where families, couples, and groups of friends relax? These are the experiences that transform a trip to Rome from a checklist vacation into something truly unforgettable.
At Creative Edge Travel, we've spent years discovering what to do in Rome beyond the typical tourist trail. We've wandered through neighborhoods most visitors never see, shared aperitivo with Roman friends in their favorite wine bars, and learned where locals go to escape the crowds. Today, we're sharing our insider guide to the best things to do in Rome—from sunrise to sunset and everything in between.
In this article:
Why Rome Is Always a Good Idea
Before we dive into the best things to do in Rome, let's talk about why this city captures hearts year after year. Rome isn't just a destination - it's a living museum where ancient history collides with vibrant modern life. Where else can you sip espresso in a café built into a 2,000-year-old theater, or stumble upon Baroque fountains while wandering to dinner?
What makes Rome special is how layers of history exist side by side. A Renaissance church might be built on top of a medieval monastery, which sits on ancient Roman foundations. This depth gives Rome a texture and richness that few cities can match. Every corner reveals something extraordinary, whether it's a hidden garden, an artisan's workshop, or a neighborhood square where locals have gathered for generations.
We love Rome because it rewards curiosity. When it comes to what to do in Rome– Yes, the major attractions are incredible and absolutely worth visiting. But the magic happens when you venture into neighborhoods like Monti or explore the hidden Jewish Ghetto, when you follow the scent of fresh bread to a family-run bakery, or when you discover that perfect viewpoint where you can see the entire city spread before you.
Rome also offers something for every type of traveler. History buffs can spend weeks exploring ancient ruins and archaeological sites. Food lovers will find themselves in heaven with traditional Roman cuisine that's been perfected over centuries. Art enthusiasts can marvel at masterpieces by Michelangelo, Caravaggio, and Bernini. And those seeking authentic cultural experiences will find endless opportunities to connect with Romans who are passionate about sharing their city's treasures.
The best things to do in Rome aren't just about seeing famous sights - they're about feeling the pulse of the city, understanding its rhythms, and connecting with the people who call it home. That's what we're here to help you discover.
Curious what you should pack? Check out our Ultimate Packing List for Italy!
Things to Do in Rome: Top Gems
Let's start with what to do in Rome that goes beyond the obvious tourist attractions. While we absolutely recommend visiting the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Vatican (preferably very early in the morning to avoid crowds!), these top gems offer something most visitors never experience.
Explore Lesser-Known Neighborhoods with a Local Guide
One of the best things to do in Rome is picking a neighborhood and getting completely lost in it. While Trastevere is popular and charming with its narrow medieval streets and lively atmosphere, we love setting our guests up with local guides who reveal Rome's lesser-known treasures.
Janiculum Hill (Gianicolo in Italian) offers breathtaking panoramic views of Rome without the tourist crowds. This is where Romans come to watch the sunset, and it's one of our favorite spots for understanding the city's geography. From here, you can see how Rome's seven hills flow together, spot major landmarks, and feel like you've discovered a secret that most tourists miss.
Aventine Hill is another hidden gem that showcases Rome's quieter, more elegant side. This residential area is home to beautiful gardens, ancient churches, and -here's the secret- the famous Knights of Malta keyhole. Peer through this modest keyhole in a green door, and you'll see a perfectly framed view of St. Peter's Basilica dome. It's one of Rome's most magical moments, and local guides know exactly when to visit to avoid the small crowds that have discovered this treasure.
Beyond these hills, neighborhoods like Monti (Rome's oldest quarter with artisan shops and intimate wine bars), the Jewish Ghetto (offering incredible history and the best carciofi alla giudia - Jewish-style fried artichokes), and Testaccio (a working-class neighborhood with authentic food culture) reveal the real Rome that locals love.
But Creative Edge Travel's founder, Sierra Busch, loves soaking up the unique and surprising architecture of the Quartiere Coppedè, a distinctive neighborhood tucked away in Rome's Trieste area, created by architect Gino Coppedè during the 1920s. It's a relatively small, residential area that showcases an eclectic fusion of architectural movements, including Art Nouveau, Art Deco, Gothic, and Baroque— combined with enchanting, storybook-inspired features such as the Fountain of the Frogs and the Spider Palace. Its imaginative structures make it one of the city's most unusual and lesser-known treasures.
Hunt for Treasures at Porta Portese Antique Market
What to do in Rome on a Sunday morning? Head to Porta Portese, Rome's legendary flea market that transforms the Trastevere area into a treasure hunter's paradise. This sprawling open-air market has been a Roman tradition since the 1940s, and it's where locals come to find everything from vintage clothing and antique furniture to rare books and quirky collectibles.
Arriving early (the market runs from about 6:30 AM to 2 PM, but the best finds go quickly) means you'll experience Rome waking up in the most authentic way. Watch vendors setting up their stalls, bargain in a mix of Italian and hand gestures, and discover unique souvenirs that tell real stories - vintage Italian ceramics, old photographs of Rome, leather goods, and treasures you never knew you needed.
This is people-watching at its finest and one of the best things to do in Rome for experiencing local life. Bring cash, wear comfortable shoes, and be prepared to negotiate. And don't forget to grab a supplì (Roman fried rice ball) from one of the street food vendors - it's the perfect market snack!
Things to Do in Rome: Day Activities
When exploring what to do in Rome during the day, we recommend balancing must-see sights with spontaneous wandering. The beauty of Rome is that some of the best experiences happen when you're not following a rigid itinerary.
Wander Through Rome's Most Beautiful Neighborhoods
One of our favorite things to do in Rome is dedicating entire mornings to exploring different neighborhoods on foot. Each area of Rome has its own distinct personality, and the best way to discover them is slowly, with all your senses engaged.
Start your day in Trastevere, crossing the Tiber River to enter this bohemian neighborhood with its ochre buildings draped in ivy, small piazzas filled with café tables, and winding streets that beg to be explored. Stop for a cappuccino (but only before noon - that's when Italians stop drinking milky coffee!), browse artisan shops, and peek into ancient churches that hold surprising artistic treasures.
Mid-morning, make your way to Campo de' Fiori, where the daily market bursts with color, fragrance, and energy. This is where Romans shop for fresh produce, flowers, spices, and specialty ingredients. Watch how locals select their tomatoes, learn what's in season, and soak up the animated conversations between vendors and regular customers. This market has been held in the same spot since 1869, making it one of the most authentic things to do in Rome.
Continue to the Jewish Ghetto, one of Rome's most historically significant neighborhoods. This small area tells the complex story of Rome's Jewish community, which has lived here since 161 BCE- making it one of the oldest Jewish communities in the world. Visit the Great Synagogue, explore the narrow streets, and stop at a bakery for traditional Jewish-Roman pastries. The food here is exceptional, representing a unique culinary tradition that blends Jewish and Roman cooking.
Looking for more Hidden Gems and Off the Beaten Path Places in Rome? Check out this blog post!
Discover Rome's Hidden Artisan Workshops
Among the best things to do in Rome that most tourists never experience is visiting the city's traditional artisan workshops. Rome still has craftspeople practicing trades that have been passed down through generations-from bookbinders and leather workers to mosaic artists and violin makers.
In the Monti neighborhood, you'll find small studios where artisans create everything from handmade shoes to custom jewelry. Many workshops welcome visitors and are happy to explain their craft. This is what to do in Rome when you want to bring home something truly special and meaningful, created by someone who poured their skill and passion into every detail. Not all artisan workshops are obvious– be curious and don’t be afraid to peer into windows or ask a local.
Take a Cooking Class with a Roman Family
One of the most memorable things to do in Rome is visiting a local market to gather ingredients then learning to make pasta from scratch with a Roman home cook. We arrange private cooking experiences where our guests join local families in their kitchens, learning recipes that have been passed down through generations.
Picture this: you're in a Roman apartment filled with the aroma of simmering to
mato sauce, learning to shape perfect rigatoni while your host shares stories about growing up in Rome. You'll knead dough for fresh fettuccine, master the technique for creamy carbonara (no cream involved!), and discover that authentic Roman cuisine is all about simple, quality ingredients prepared with technique and love.
These cooking experiences end with everyone sitting down together to enjoy the meal you've prepared, accompanied by local wine and warm conversation. This is what to do in Rome when you want to create genuine connections and understand Italian culture at its most fundamental level - around the table.
Things to Do in Rome: Night Activities
As the sun sets, Rome transforms into something even more magical. The golden hour light makes the ancient stones glow, crowds thin out, and a romantic energy fills the air. The best things to do in Rome at night offer completely different experiences from daytime sightseeing.
Experience Rome's Monuments Illuminated After Dark
One of the most spectacular things to do in Rome is taking a driving tour of the city's iconic monuments after dark. Seeing the Colosseum, Trevi Fountain, Piazza Navona, and the Pantheon illuminated against the night sky is absolutely breathtaking- and surprisingly overlooked by most visitors.
There's something magical about seeing the Colosseum under a full moon, its ancient arches glowing and nearly empty of tourists. The Trevi Fountain becomes even more romantic at night, its baroque sculptures dramatically lit and the sound of water echoing through the quiet piazza. Without the daytime crowds, you can actually appreciate the artistry and scale of these masterpieces.
Many local drivers offer nighttime tours that hit all the major landmarks, and this is one of the best things to do in Rome for photography enthusiasts. The lighting is dramatic, the atmosphere is intimate, and you'll see these famous sights in a completely new way. Pro tip: bring a tripod for those long-exposure shots that capture the magic!
Check out this blog: Dining in Italy: A Guide for Travelers and Italian Menus
People Watch in Rome's Most Beautiful Piazzas
What to do in Rome on a warm evening? Join the locals in the age-old tradition of the passeggiata - the evening stroll - and claim a spot in one of Rome's gorgeous piazzas for world-class people watching.
Piazza Navona, built on the site of an ancient Roman stadium, comes alive at night with street performers, artists sketching portraits, and couples strolling arm in arm. The three magnificent fountains are illuminated, and outdoor cafés buzz with conversation. While the café prices are tourist-level, ordering a drink and settling in for an hour of people watching is worth every euro for the atmosphere and experience.
Piazza di Spagna (Spanish Steps) offers a different vibe - more elegant and refined. Sit on the steps (recently cleaned and beautifully maintained) and watch the fashion parade of stylish Romans and international visitors. The view up to Trinità dei Monti church is particularly beautiful at dusk.
For a more local experience, head to Piazza Santa Maria in Trastevere. This is where Romans congregate - sitting on the fountain's edge with takeaway drinks, meeting friends, and soaking up the neighborhood's bohemian energy. Street musicians often perform here, and the medieval church's golden mosaics glow beautifully when lit at night.
Experience Trastevere Nightlife and Wine Bar Hopping
When it comes to what to do in Rome at night, experiencing the city's wine bar culture is essential. Trastevere transforms after dark into one of Rome's liveliest neighborhoods, with wine bars, cocktail lounges, and intimate restaurants spilling onto the streets.
We love taking our guests on wine bar crawls through Trastevere and nearby neighborhoods, stopping at spots where locals gather. You'll sample wines from different Italian regions, learn about natural wine production, and enjoy small plates of Roman specialties - supplì, bruschetta with fresh toppings, and thin-crust pizza.
The key to the best things to do in Rome at night is embracing the Italian concept of la dolce vita - the sweet life. Don't rush. Order another glass of wine. Strike up conversations with fellow travelers and locals. Stay out late wandering through narrow streets where music drifts from hidden courtyards. This is Rome at its most enchanting.
Things to Do in Rome: Lunch/Dinner Time
Food is central to Roman culture, and knowing what to do in Rome at mealtimes can make or break your experience. Romans take eating seriously - it's not just sustenance, it's a daily celebration of tradition, quality ingredients, and good company!
Start Your Evening with Aperitivo Like a Local
One of the best things to do in Rome is embracing the sacred ritual of aperitivo - the pre-dinner drink and appetizers that Italians enjoy between 6 and 9 PM. This isn't just happy hour; it's a cherished tradition that bridges the gap between the workday and dinner.
Head to a local wine bar or café and order an Aperol Spritz, Negroni, or prosecco, and you'll typically receive complimentary appetizers - olives, nuts, small sandwiches, vegetables, and sometimes even pasta salads. Some places offer elaborate aperitivo buffets where you can practically make a meal.
In Trastevere, Freni e Frizioni is famous for its generous aperitivo spread and lively atmosphere. In the Monti neighborhood, smaller wine bars offer more intimate experiences where you can chat with the owners and learn about Italian wines. This is what to do in Rome when you want to eat and socialize like locals do - standing at the bar, nibbling snacks, and enjoying the relaxed transition from day to evening.
Explore Rome's Food Markets for Authentic Meals
Among the most underrated things to do in Rome is grabbing lunch from one of the city's authentic food markets. Mercato Testaccio is our favorite - a covered market in a traditionally working-class neighborhood where vendors have been serving Romans for generations.
Here you'll find market stalls selling fresh produce, cheese, meat, and fish alongside small restaurants and food counters serving incredible local specialties. Order a plate of pasta from one of the in-market kitchens, grab a trapizzino (a pocket-shaped pizza stuffed with Roman classics like chicken cacciatore or meatballs), and enjoy your meal standing at a counter surrounded by locals on their lunch breaks.
This is authentic Rome - no tourists menus, no English-speaking waiters, just honest food prepared by people who've been doing it their whole lives. It's also one of the most budget-friendly things to do in Rome while eating exceptionally well.
Join a Food Tour to Discover Roman Culinary Traditions
What to do in Rome to really understand the local food culture? Join a guided food tour that takes you beyond restaurants into the stories, traditions, and history behind Roman cuisine.
A good food tour will introduce you to traditional dishes you might not order on your own - coda alla vaccinara (oxtail stew), rigatoni con la pajata (pasta with veal intestines), and maritozzo (sweet cream-filled buns). You'll learn why Romans are passionate about specific pasta shapes for specific sauces, visit family-run delis that have been operating for 100+ years, and understand how Rome's cuisine reflects its history as a working-class city.
We arrange private food tours that take our guests to spots where locals eat—not the restaurants near the Colosseum charging €25 for mediocre carbonara, but the neighborhood trattoria where the owner's grandmother's recipe has been perfected over decades. These experiences are among the best things to do in Rome for food lovers who want to truly understand Italian culinary culture.
Reserve Restaurants in Advance to Avoid Tourist Traps
Here's an insider tip on what to do in Rome to ensure great meals: reserve some restaurants in advance. Wandering around hungry is almost guaranteed to land you in a tourist trap with mediocre food, inflated prices, and laminated menus in eight languages.
Romans make reservations at their favorite restaurants, and the best spots fill up quickly. If there's a specific trattoria you want to try (maybe one recommended by a local or featured in a trusted guide), book ahead. This is especially important for dinner, when the best restaurants are at capacity.
However, leave some meals unplanned for spontaneity and local recommendations. The perfect balance is having 2-3 dinner reservations during a week-long visit, with other meals left open for discoveries and last-minute suggestions from people you meet.
Things to Do in Rome: Outdoor Activities
Rome's history and art are magnificent, but the city also offers wonderful outdoor experiences that let you connect with nature while staying close to ancient wonders. These are the best things to do in Rome when you need a break from museums and monuments.
Rent a Bike and Explore the Appian Way
One of our favorite things to do in Rome - and one that surprises many travelers - is cycling the Appian Way (Via Appia Antica), one of the world's oldest roads. Don't worry, you won't be biking through Rome's chaotic city traffic! The Appian Way stretches outside the city center through a protected park area where ancient Roman ruins stand alongside pastoral landscapes.
This is what to do in Rome when you want to experience the layers of history in a completely different way. As you pedal along the ancient stones (some still bearing marks from Roman chariot wheels), you'll pass catacombs, crumbling aqueducts, tombstones, and cypress trees that frame the countryside views. The road has been here since 312 BCE, and cycling it connects you to centuries of travelers who've passed along this same route.
Bike rental shops near the beginning of the Appian Way provide bikes, maps, and suggested routes. You can cycle for a few hours or pack a picnic and make a full day of it. This is easily one of the most peaceful and memorable things to do in Rome, far from the crowded historic center.
Embrace "Dolce Far Niente" in Rome's Most Beautiful Parks
Here's the most Roman thing to do in Rome: absolutely nothing. Or rather, the art of dolce far niente - the sweetness of doing nothing. Romans have perfected this practice, and their city parks are the ideal setting.
On a sunny day, do as locals do - pack a picnic basket with cheese, prosciutto, fresh bread, and wine picked up from a local market. Spread a blanket in one of Rome's gorgeous parks and spend the entire day reading, dozing, people-watching, and simply being present in the moment.
Villa Borghese is Rome's most famous park, offering shaded paths, a lake where you can rent rowboats, beautiful gardens, and the stunning Borghese Gallery museum. Find your perfect spot under a stone pine tree, lay out your picnic, and let the afternoon drift by. Watch families playing, couples strolling, and locals walking their dogs. This is what to do in Rome when you want to truly slow down and embrace the Italian approach to life.
Villa Doria Pamphili is Rome's largest public park and much less touristy than Villa Borghese. This sprawling green space on Janiculum Hill features formal gardens, fountains, walking paths, and plenty of quiet corners where you can claim your own little piece of paradise. The views over Rome from certain vantage points are spectacular, and you'll be surrounded almost entirely by locals enjoying their neighborhood park.
Pro Tip: Villa Doria Pamphili is the PARK but “Galleria Doria Pamphili” is a private art collection at another location– don’t get confused!
Watch the Sunset from Rome's Best Viewpoints
What to do in Rome as the day winds down? Head to one of the city's breathtaking viewpoints for sunset. Rome's seven hills offer countless spots to watch the sun sink behind terracotta roofs and ancient domes.
We already mentioned Janiculum Hill, but it deserves another mention for sunset specifically. The 360-degree views are unmatched, and there's something profoundly moving about watching the light change across this eternal city while you're standing on the same hills that Romans have climbed for millennia.
The Pincio Terrace above Piazza del Popolo offers another spectacular sunset view, with St. Peter's dome visible in the distance. Orange Garden (Giardino degli Aranci) on Aventine Hill provides a more intimate setting with Rome's rooftops spread before you and the sound of church bells ringing across the city.
These sunset moments are among the best things to do in Rome for reflection, romance, and truly appreciating the beauty of this remarkable city.
What to Do in Rome: Best Tips for First Time Travelers
Now that you know the best things to do in Rome, let's talk strategy. These tips come from years of experience helping travelers make the most of their Roman adventures without the common pitfalls.
Don't Overplan Your Days
The most important tip for what to do in Rome: leave breathing room in your schedule. We recommend planning just one major scheduled activity per day, then leaving the rest open for wandering, discoveries, and spontaneity.
Rome is best experienced at a relaxed pace. If you pack your itinerary with back-to-back scheduled tours and museum visits, you'll miss the magic that happens between the plans—stumbling upon a neighborhood festival, spending an hour chatting with an artisan in their workshop, or getting delightfully lost in medieval streets and finding that perfect little café.
Trust us on this: some of your best Rome memories will come from unplanned moments. Build space into your days for these to happen.
Book Famous Sights Early (Very Early!)
While we advocate for spontaneity in most of your planning, here's when to do the opposite: the major attractions. For the best experience visiting the Colosseum, Roman Forum, Vatican Museums, Borghese Gallery, and other popular sites, visit as early as possible - ideally at opening time.
Arriving when sites open means you'll experience these incredible places before the bus tour crowds arrive. You can actually take photos at the Trevi Fountain without dozens of people in your frame. You can stand in the Sistine Chapel and truly absorb Michelangelo's genius without being shoulder-to-shoulder with hundreds of others.
Many sites offer special early morning or after-hours tours, and these are worth every penny. When it comes to what to do in Rome for the most memorable experiences, seeing these treasures in relative tranquility transforms them from tourist obligations into truly moving encounters.
Reserve Strategic Restaurants But Stay Flexible
We've mentioned this regarding food, but it's important enough to repeat: reserve a few key restaurants in advance, but don't lock down every meal. Wandering around hungry in tourist areas almost guarantees you'll end up somewhere mediocre with inflated prices.
Do some research ahead of time, maybe reserve 2-3 restaurants you're excited about (particularly for dinner), but leave other meals open for recommendations you'll receive from locals, your hotel staff, or people you meet. Some of the best things to do in Rome food-wise come from last-minute suggestions and spontaneous discoveries.
Watch Out for Pickpockets and Common Scams
Rome is generally safe, but like any major tourist city, pickpockets target distracted visitors. Stay aware in crowded places - busy metro stations, popular tourist sites, and markets. Keep valuables secure and be particularly cautious on crowded public transportation.
Common scams to watch for include people offering to help you buy train or metro tickets (they'll charge you extra), "gladiators" near the Colosseum who pose for photos then demand payment, and the old bracelet trick where someone ties a friendship bracelet on your wrist as if it’s a gift then demands money.
Stay alert, but don't let concerns about safety prevent you from enjoying all the wonderful things to do in Rome. Use common sense, keep your belongings secure, and you'll have a safe and amazing experience.
Escape the City for the True Dolce Vita
Here's our most passionate tip about what to do in Rome: don't just stay in Rome. We know this seems counterintuitive in an article about Rome, but hear us out - you haven't truly experienced Italy if you've only visited its overtouristed cities.
The real magic of Italian culture happens in small villages and rural areas where life moves slower, traditions are preserved, and locals have time to share their way of life with visitors. Within easy reach of Rome, you'll find hilltop towns, vineyard-covered valleys, and coastal villages where you can experience the authentic dolce vita that draws people to Italy in the first place.
Consider dedicating at least 2-3 days of your trip to exploring beyond Rome. Visit Orvieto, perched dramatically on volcanic rock, or head to the Castelli Romani wine region where Romans have been escaping for weekend getaways since ancient times. Explore medieval villages in Umbria or Tuscany where you can take cooking classes with local families, visit artisan workshops, and understand what Italian life is really about.
At Creative Edge Travel, we specialize in these off-the-beaten-path experiences that connect you with authentic Italian culture. While Rome is magnificent, pairing it with time in smaller destinations creates a more balanced and meaningful journey.
Get Expert Guidance for the Best Experience
One final tip on what to do in Rome: consider working with local experts who can unlock experiences you'd never find on your own. The difference between a good Rome trip and an extraordinary one often comes down to connections - knowing which family-run trattoria serves the best cacio e pepe, having a local guide who can explain the layers of history you're seeing, or getting invited into spaces that aren't accessible to typical tourists.
We're finishing the final touches on our comprehensive Rome City Guide that will include all our insider recommendations - the best restaurants by neighborhood, hidden gems locals love, detailed walking routes, cultural insights, and practical tips for navigating the city like a Roman. This guide represents years of our experience living, exploring, and connecting with locals in Rome, and we can't wait to share it with you!
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You'll get exclusive access to our hand-picked recommendations and insider knowledge that will transform your Rome experience.
Ready to Experience the Real Rome?
Now you know the best things to do in Rome - from sunrise bike rides along ancient roads to sunset aperitivo with views over terracotta rooftops, from hidden neighborhood gems to illuminated monuments under the stars. Rome offers endless possibilities for travelers who want to go beyond the typical tourist experience.
Remember, the most magical things to do in Rome often happen spontaneously - a conversation with a shopkeeper who invites you to taste their family's olive oil, an evening stumbling upon a neighborhood festival, or a quiet moment in an empty church where light streams through ancient windows. These are the experiences that stay with you long after you've returned home.
At Creative Edge Travel, we create opportunities for exactly these kinds of authentic connections. Whether you're looking for expert guidance planning your Rome adventure, want to combine Rome with small-group tours to other Italian regions, or need help accessing unique experiences with local artisans and families, we're here to help you discover Italy's true magic.
Explore our Italy tours where we design special moments around the people who make Italian culture extraordinary—from cooking with Roman families to exploring hidden hilltop villages with local guides. Or check out our Custom Travel Planning services to create your perfect Italian adventure with insider access and authentic experiences you won't find anywhere else.
Rome is always waiting, always revealing new secrets, always ready to capture your heart. Now you know what to do in Rome to experience it at its most authentic and magical.
Buon viaggio! (bwohn vee-AH-joh) - Have a great trip!
