The Best Museums to Visit in Rome

Rome is a beautiful and historic city, full of attractions and activities for tourists to explore. There are a huge range of museums to visit in the city, from small galleries displaying art and historical artefacts to those which display some of the most iconic items of our time. In this article we will look at the best museums in Rome and why these should be included in any trip to the Eternal City.

The Vatican Museums

One of the most well-known and visited museums in Rome is the Vatican Museum. Home to some of the world’s most treasured artworks, this museum includes collections from Ancient Rome, Renaissance period works and modern day art. The majority of the walls are covered with frescoes, while sculptures, such as Bernini’s sculpture of Saint Peter can also be found throughout the museum. Visitors to the museum can expect to see a huge range of works, from Caravaggio’s paintings, Leonardo da Vinci’s studies and Raphael’s Transfiguration. As well as these permanent collections, there are also regular temporary exhibitions held within the museum which allow visitors to get a closer look at some of the city’s most iconic artworks.

Galleria Borghese

The Galleria Borghese is one of the smaller galleries in Rome with a specific focus on classical and Baroque art. This museum houses one of the world’s largest private art collections and includes both sculpture and paintings from great artistic masters such as Titian, Raphael, Caravaggio and Bernini. Just as impressive as the works housed within is the gallery itself, due to its size, it was built as a private palace by Cardinal Scipione Borghese in 1613 who wanted a showcase for his art collection. The marble sculpture gardens are also worth a visit and are particularly beautiful when illuminated at night.

Galleria Nazionale de Arte Moderna

If you love modern Italian art, then the Galleria Nazionale de Arte Modernain is the place to visit in Rome. This museum houses one of the country’s most extensive collections of 19th and 20th century paintings, sculptures, photography and video art by some of Italy’s most renowned artists. Visitors can expect to find works by artists such as Modigliani and De Chirico as well as more contemporary works from the likes of Boccioni and Guttuso. The museum is also home to some of the world’s most recognised posters, advertising everything from cigarettes to movie posters.

Museo e Galleria Borghese

The Museo e Galleria Borghese is another beautiful gallery located just outside Rome. This grand palace was originally built by Cardinal Scipione Borghese in the late 16th century and is home to some of his most prestigious artwork. Paintings by great masters such as Titian and Raphael are part of the museum’s comprehensive collection as well as works by Caravaggio and Bernini. The museum also contains more modern pieces by artists including De Chirico and Guttuso, making it one of the best places to explore Italian art from different eras.

Overall, there are many amazing museums, galleries and exhibitions to explore whilst in Rome. From some of the greatest works by Renaissance artists to modern pieces by Italy’s contemporary artists, each museum offers something different for visitors to admire.

If you are looking for the best museums in Rome to visit, then make sure that you include the Vatican Museum, the Galleria Borghese, Galleria Nazionale de Arte Moderna and Museo e Galleria Borghese as they all offer something unique and are sure to offer a memorable experience whilst you are in the Eternal City. To help make plans easier for visitors, Romeingame offer tailored city tours focused on genuine Italian culture and art with personalised itineraries designed to show travellers the city’s best hidden gems.

The Insider’s Guide to Rome: Discovering Hidden Gems and Unique Experiences

Rome is undoubtedly one of the most breathtaking cities in the world, filled with iconic landmarks, such as the Colosseum, the Pantheon, and the Trevi Fountain. However, as you explore the city, you’ll quickly realize there’s much more to Rome than its famous tourist sites. To truly experience the soul of this vibrant city, you need to get off the beaten track and explore its hidden gems. Here is an insider’s guide to Rome that will help you discover the city’s lesser-known treasures.

Uncovering Hidden Gems in Rome

While the Colosseum and the Vatican Museums are often on the top of tourists’ lists, Rome has many off-the-beaten-path sights that are worth exploring. Among them are Quartiere Coppedè, a whimsical neighborhood with stunning art-nouveau architecture, or Via Appia Antica, an ancient Roman road that leads you to some of the city’s best-preserved ruins. You can also visit the catacombs, a network of underground burial sites and chapels, or explore the Aventine Hill, home to beautiful gardens and stunning views of the city.

The Tastes of Rome: Cuisine and Stories

One of the most exciting aspects of traveling is trying the local cuisine, and in Rome, the food culture is nothing short of fascinating. From classic pizza alla romana to the iconic cacio e pepe, Rome has a rich culinary heritage with unique ingredients, techniques, and stories. For example, did you know that Carbonara, a creamy pasta dish, is said to have been invented by Italian women who cooked for American soldiers during World War II? Or that the sweet almond biscuits, called Amaretti, have been a staple in Rome since the 18th century?
To experience the city’s culinary culture firsthand, you should head to Testaccio, Rome’s foodie hub, to indulge in some authentic local delicacies.

Immersing in Rome’s Culture

Rome is more than just a city of history; it’s a city of culture, too. Here, you can immerse yourself in ancient Roman art and sculpture at the Palazzo Altemps, or marvel at Renaissance masterpieces at the Galleria Borghese. You can also experience the vibrant contemporary art scene at the MACRO, a museum that showcases modern Italian art or visit MAXXI, the first national museum dedicated to contemporary art and architecture in Italy. If you’re interested in music, check out one of Rome’s many music venues or join a sing-along by the Tiber River.

History Beyond the Colosseum: Fascinating Stories and Anecdotes

The history of Rome goes far beyond its iconic landmarks, and to truly understand the city, you need to delve into its stories and anecdotes. For example, did you know that Rome is said to have been founded by twin brothers, Romulus and Remus, who were raised by a wolf? Or that the famous Capuchin Crypt, decorated with the bones of over 4,000 monks, was built as a reflection on human mortality? Unearthing the many fascinating and lesser-known stories is a unique way to see Rome in a different light.

Unforgettable Experiences in Rome

Finally, our insider’s guide to Rome wouldn’t be complete without mentioning some unforgettable experiences that you simply can’t miss. These include taking a Vespa tour through the city’s streets, visiting the Roman street-art scene, or wandering through Rome’s beautiful public parks. You can also join a cooking class to learn how to make authentic Italian pasta or take a bike ride through the Appian Way. No matter what you choose, Rome offers endless opportunities for unforgettable and unique experiences.

In conclusion, Rome is a city steeped in culture, history, and tradition. If you’re willing to look beyond its famous landmarks, you’ll find a city filled with hidden gems, fascinating stories, delicious food, and unforgettable experiences. Use this insider’s guide to create a journey that will take you deep into the heart of Rome, and leave you with memories to last a lifetime.