What are the Most Popular Activities in Rome?

The answer to what are the most popular activities in Rome depends largely on your interests and budget. For example, if you have a large group of people or a great budget, you can visit the famous sites like the Colosseum, Pantheon, and Vatican City. On the other hand, if you’re on a tight budget or prefer more unique experiences, there are plenty of activities that have just as much to offer as the traditional tourist attractions.

No matter what kind of activity or budget you’re looking for, there’s something for everyone in Rome. Here are some of the most popular things to do in Rome:

For History Buffs:

No visit to Rome is complete without visiting some of the iconic sites of the city’s grand past. The Colosseum and Pantheon are two of the most popular sites to visit, and there are dozens of other ancient sites around the city. For a slightly less crowded experience, consider taking a day trip to Ostia Antica, an ancient Roman port city located along the Tiber river that makes for a lovely day trip away from the crowds.

For Foodies:

Rome is also renowned for its culinary delights, and it could take several trips to try all the delicious dishes that the city has to offer. You’ll find a range of dishes from around the world, but there’s also plenty of authentic Italian cuisine to sample, including pizzas, gelato and carbonara. As well as traditional restaurants, many food tours offer an immersive culinary experience – some include wine or cheese tastings, too.

For Art Lovers:

As the birthplace of some of the world’s most influential and renowned artists and sculptures, Rome is home to some formidable galleries and museums. The Musei Capitolini is one of the most visited museums in Italy, located in the Piazza del Campidoglio where it has been since 1471. The museum gets its name from the two gigantic marble statues of Castor and Pollux that sit atop it, which are believed to be over 3,000 years old. The Vatican Museums are also unmissable in Rome, where you can see works by Michelangelo and legendary artworks such as Laocoön and His Sons and The Creation of Adam.

For Shopaholics:

If shopping is your game, Rome has plenty of options to explore. Via del Corso is a bustling shopping street filled with designer boutiques, while Via Cola di Rienzo is known for its trendy stores with some great vintage finds. For a more traditional experience, visit Campo de Fiori where merchants have been trading for centuries. Here you can find fresh fruit, vegetables and all manner of traditional Italian ingredients, as well as beautiful handmade souvenirs crafted by local artisans.

Something Different: Bar Crawl With Local Guide & Drinks

For something a bit different, why not join a Rome Bar Crawl with Local Guide & Drinks? This three-hour evening tour takes you on a walking tour through Rome’s lively Trastevere neighborhood and its eclectic bar scenes. You can visit up to five bars and pubs in three hours, taste some delicious food and drinks, meet up with fellow travelers and locals, and experience Roman nightlife with a friendly local guide. With drinks included in the price of admission, this is a great way to make sure your night in Rome goes off without a hitch!

Overall, there’s something for everyone in Rome. Whether you’re a history buff or an art lover, a foodie or a shopaholic — or even if you’re looking for something different — you’ll find something to do in Rome that you’ll love. So don’t hesitate — be sure to take advantage of all this amazing city has to offer!

An Insider’s Guide to Rome

As the capital of Italy and a city rich in history, Rome attracts millions of tourists every year. But beyond the usual touristic spots, the city is overflowing with hidden gems waiting for the eager traveler to discover. In this guide, we’ll take a look at some of the most intriguing and idiosyncratic experiences Rome has to offer, from hidden gems and unique cuisine to cultural experiences and local history.

Local Attractions

While visiting Rome, it’s important to see the Colosseum and the Vatican, but there are also treasures that only locals know about. One such gem is the Palazzo Doria Pamphilj, a 17th-century palace with a significant collection of paintings and sculpture. This palace offers an escape from the crowds and a unique window into the heart of Italian culture. There’s also the Centrale Montemartini, an ancient power plant converted into an industrial museum that displays Roman artifacts. It’s a must-visit spot for those intrigued by the intersections of ancient and modern technologies.

Dining Spots

Italian cuisine is world-famous for its delicious flavors and regional differences, and Rome is no exception. While in Rome, try the traditional pasta Carbonara, which originated in the city and is made with pecorino cheese and pancetta. For those with a sweet tooth, don’t miss out on the Tiramisu, a coffee-flavored dessert made with a blend of creamy mascarpone and ladyfingers. At Roscioli, a true Roman culinary icon, you can sit down and enjoy a gourmet dinner. The restaurant has its own bakery, offering an array of fresh bread, and its own wine cellar, giving you an opportunity to complete your dining experience with the perfect wine pairing.

Cultural Experiences

In Rome, the famous ceiling of the Sistine Chapel is just the beginning. There are countless other cultural experiences to enjoy during your trip. The city hosts a multitude of festivals and events throughout the year, and one of the most colorful is the Carnival of Rome, celebrated annually in February. For avid art lovers, the Galleria Borghese displays artwork from some of the most prominent artists in history, including Caravaggio, Bernini, and Raphael. Finally, make sure to check out some of the local music, which can range from classical to jazz, often playing in intimate and unique settings.

Local History

One of the best-kept secrets of Rome’s history is the Capuchin Crypt, where the remains of over 3,700 Capuchin friars have been used to create decorative patterns with their skeletal remains. A macabre and fascinating sight, it offers insight into the city’s religious history. Another notable location is the Villa Medici, a Renaissance-era palace that has hosted French artists since 1803. It’s a veritable oasis in the midst of the city, and visitors can stroll the gardens and take in sculpture and paintings from some of the most famous artists in history.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

If you’re looking for something entirely unique, visit the Catacombs of Priscilla, an ancient Christian cemetery that dates back to the second century AD. It’s a mesmerizing journey through history and offers a glimpse into underground Rome. An entirely different kind of experience can be found at Ostia Antica, an ancient city that sits at the mouth of the Tiber River. Unlike Pompeii, this city has not been buried by the ashes of a volcano, and its ruins are yours to explore without the crowds of tourists you’d find elsewhere.

Rome is a city of wonders and secrets. With this insider’s guide to the Eternal City, you’ll find yourself wandering down cobblestone streets and seeing sights no other tourist has ever seen before. So, come, immerse yourself in the history, taste the exquisite food, experience the culture, and discover something new that will live with you forever.