Non Touristy Things To Do In Rome

Rome, the Eternal City, is renowned for its ancient ruins, Renaissance art, and incredible food. Located in the heart of Italy, the city is considered one of the most beautiful cities in the world, full of culture, history, and romance. From its iconic Colosseum and Pantheon to its chic cafes, Rome is a city that never fails to captivate visitors.

But for those looking for something beyond the typical touristy activities, Rome has a lot to offer. Whether you’re looking for a unique experience or simply want to explore the city beyond the tourist hotspots, there’s something for everyone. Here are some non-touristy things to do in Rome that will make your trip memorable.

Visit the Catacombs

The Catacombs of Rome are a network of underground burial chambers that date back to the 2nd century AD. The most famous catacombs are located near St. Callixtus and contain the remains of over half a million people. The catacombs are a unique way to explore the history and culture of Rome and a great way to escape the crowds of tourists in the city’s main sites.

Visiting the Catacombs requires a guided tour and can be done in a few hours. Tours typically start at San Callixtus and take you through a series of tunnels and chambers that have remained largely untouched for hundreds of years. You’ll learn about the history of the catacombs and see ancient frescoes and inscriptions on the walls. Tours are offered in multiple languages and can be booked online or in person.

Explore Trastevere

Trastevere is one of Rome’s most charming neighborhoods and a great place to soak up the local atmosphere. Located on the west bank of the Tiber River, this area is filled with cobblestone streets, quaint cafes, and colorful buildings. It’s also home to some of the city’s best restaurants, where you can sample Roman specialties like carbonara and amatriciana.

Trastevere is also home to some of Rome’s best nightlife. There are plenty of bars and clubs to explore, as well as live music venues. If you’re looking for something a bit more low-key, there are plenty of cozy cafes where you can enjoy an espresso or glass of wine and people watch.

Visit Campo de Fiori

Campo de Fiori is one of Rome’s most vibrant squares. Located in the heart of town, this piazza is always bustling with life. During the day, it’s home to an open-air market where you can find fresh produce, flowers, and other local goods. In the evening, it transforms into a lively nightlife spot with bars and restaurants that stay open late into the night.

Campo de Fiori is also home to one of Rome’s most iconic landmarks: the statue of Giordano Bruno, which stands in the center of the piazza. This statue commemorates Bruno, an Italian philosopher who was burned at stake for his controversial beliefs in 1600.

Visit Ostia Antica

Ostia Antica is an ancient Roman city located just outside of Rome that dates back to the 4th century BC. It was once a thriving port city that served as the gateway to Rome but has since been abandoned and left to ruin. Today, it’s one of Rome’s most fascinating archaeological sites and a great place to explore if you want to escape the crowds in central Rome.

Ostia Antica is home to some incredible ruins including an amphitheater, temples, bathhouses, and more. You can explore these ruins on your own or join a guided tour to learn more about their history. The site also offers plenty of activities such as boat rides along the Tiber River and bike tours around the archaeological site.

Shop at Porta Portese

Porta Portese is Rome’s largest flea market and the perfect place to pick up unique souvenirs and bargains. Located in Trastevere, this market has been around since 1613 and is open every Sunday from 7am to 1pm. Here you can find anything from vintage clothes and furniture to antiques and artwork. It’s also a great place to find unique gifts for friends back home or just to browse around for fun.

Visit Villa Borghese

Villa Borghese is one of Rome’s most beautiful parks and a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. Located in central Rome, this large park contains several gardens, lakes, fountains, museums, and more. It’s a great place to go for a leisurely stroll or enjoy some peace and quiet away from the tourist crowds.

The park also contains several attractions such as galleries, sculptures, and monuments. One of its most famous attractions is Galleria Borghese, which houses works by artists such as Bernini, Raphael, Caravaggio, and Titian. The park also contains two outdoor theaters: Teatro Marcello and Teatro di Villa Borghese.

Take a Cooking Class

If you want to learn how to cook like a Roman chef, then taking a cooking class is a must-do while visiting Rome. There are plenty of cooking classes available in Rome that will teach you how to make classic dishes such as pasta carbonara or tiramisu. Most classes include demonstrations from professional chefs as well as hands-on experience so you can learn how to make these dishes properly.

Visit Local Neighborhoods

Rome is full of fascinating neighborhoods that are often overlooked by tourists but are worth exploring. These areas are full of character and personality and provide a glimpse into everyday life in Rome. Two neighborhoods worth exploring are Monti (located near the Colosseum) and Testaccio (located near Ostiense station). Both areas offer plenty of cafes, restaurants, bars, shops, and more for visitors to enjoy.

Book an Ancient Ruins Tour

For those looking for an in-depth exploration of Rome’s ancient ruins, a guided tour is worth considering. On an Ancient Ruins Tour, you will visit some of Rome’s most famous sites such as the Colosseum, Roman Forum, Palatine Hill, Pantheon, Trajan’s Column, and more. You will learn about their history and architecture with an experienced guide who will provide fascinating insight into these ancient monuments. Book an Ancient Ruins Tour here

Book a Food Tour

If you want to experience the best of Rome’s culinary culture, then booking a Food Tour is a must-do. On a Food Tour of Rome, you will visit some of the city’s best eateries where you will sample delicious dishes such as pizza margherita, carbonara pasta, gelato, and more. You will also learn about Roman cuisine with knowledgeable guides who will provide interesting insight into the city’s food culture.Book a Food Tour here

Rome is an incredible city with something for everyone – from tourists looking for popular attractions to those seeking something off-the-beaten-path. Whether you’re exploring its ancient ruins or enjoying its unique cuisine, there’s no shortage of things to do in this vibrant city. With all this in mind, there are plenty of non-touristy things to do in Rome that will provide visitors with an authentic experience that won’t soon be forgotten.