What is the Best Way to Experience Rome

When it comes to experiencing the best of Rome, there’s no shortage of things to explore. Whether you want to explore the ancient ruins and monuments, savor the city’s renowned culinary delicacies, or party it up in one of its famous bars and pubs, Rome offers everything a traveler could wish for. But with so much to see and do, it can be difficult to know what the best way to experience Rome is. From wild nightlife in Trastevere to exploring the Colosseum and the beautiful Saint Peter’s Basilica, here is our guide on what is the best way to experience Rome.

Discover Ancient Rome

The best way to experience Rome is to investigate its vast history and culture, and there’s no better place to do that than by exploring the city’s oldest and most iconic monuments. While a visit to the Colosseum might top everyone’s list (it is, after all, one of the world’s most popular tourist destinations) we’d also recommend walking around the vast ruins of the Roman Forum, or the 22 km long Appian Way that dates back to 312 BC.

See the Arcibasilica di San Giovanni in Laterano

If you like visiting churches, then you won’t want to miss out on the beautiful Arcibasilica di San Giovanni in Laterano. As Rome’s cathedral and the official seat of the Bishop of Rome, it’s one of the oldest churches in Rome and arguably holds the most significance for Roman Catholics. Inside its walls you’ll find astonishing Baroque furniture and decorations befitting of its impressive holy status. And for those of you looking for a freaky experience: San Giovanni in Laterano is home to a terrifying skeletal representation of death itself, called La Pala dello Scanno della Morte, or “The Board of Death’.

Discover Street Art in Garbatella

Garbatella is known as one of Rome’s best kept secrets. This neighborhood is frequented by Italian locals rather than tourists, so it’s a great place to explore if you want to get an authentic experience of Rome away from the bustling crowds of other touristy spots. Here you’ll find enchanting street and graffiti art—like vivid yellow birds perched on staircases and garish statues that look suspiciously like Mario & Luigi lining up against one another. For the most impressive artwork however, nothing beats Garbatella’s ‘Ornamento’ wall by Fabio Petrucci and Sbagllato. Comprised of different tiles and canvases that come together to form a vivid and colorful representation of harmony among different cultures, it’s no surprise why this wall has become one of the most iconic pieces of street art in Rome.

Experience a Bird’s Eye View of Ancient Rome

If you’re feeling adventurous, then there’s nothing quite like viewing Rome from above for an unforgettable experience. As one of the world’s most breathtaking cities, this activity gives travellers the chance to fully take in the grandeur and beauty of ancient Rome like never before. There are plenty of companies offering hot air balloon rides over the city—with varying prices based on the duration of your ride and unique experiences—so it pays off to shop around for competitive deals.

Visit Palazzo Barberini

This 17th century palace was originally commissioned by Cardinal Francesco Barberini and is home to a number of paintings, sculptures and ancient works of art from some of Italy’s most influential painters such as Caravaggio and Raphael. The Baroque museum houses a glorious collection that effectively chronicles Italy’s historical trajectory through its showcase of four floors that were built for four different popes spanning centuries until 1870—it truly is a historic day out that can’t be missed.

Explore Historic Centro Storico

Centro Storico is simply one of the best areas to spend your time in Rome. Situated near Campo de Fiori, this historic neighborhood is home to several churches, alleyways and narrow roads that open up onto stunning piazzas like the Pantheon or Piazza Navona—the latter known for hosting some incredible cultural events including theater shows, live music acts and book fairs throughout the year. From here you can sample unique dishes at local restaurants or watch street performances by talented acrobats doing death-defying stunts.

Go Shopping in Via del Corso

While Rome has seen its fair share of touristy ‘Made in Italy’ clothes products it has yet to join cities like Milan in embracing world-renowned fashion houses like Gucci and Prada. Via del Corso, however, houses a number of upscale clothes stores that span high-end Italian designers and international luxury brands—meaning you can shop until you find that glamorous designer throw-on or beautiful leather bag without depleting your savings. You’ll also find an array jewelry stores that sell some lovely vintage finds: ceramics, Murano glasses and antique coins are best for those looking for souvenirs with an authentic Roman flair.

Drunken History Tour with Included Drinks

No trip to Rome is complete without experiencing its vibrant nightlife culture—and what better way to do that than with a Drunken History Tour with Included Drinks? All you have to do is book your tickets with GetYourGuide and join your professional guide for an unforgettable night out as they steer you around Trastevere’s hot spots which offer some seriously strong cocktails (and other beverages) brewed from local ingredientes and spices from Italy’s romantic capital city. As well as slipping into some renowned breweries, restaurants and bars—many offering discounts exclusively for tour members—you’ll also get captivating anecdotes about some of Trastevere’s famous writers, artists and musicians while uncovering unusual facts about the city’s past.

Ultimately, our guide should leave you far more informed about all aspects of Rome—from its monuments, churches and cultural hubs right through to its buzzing nightlife scene. Regardless if it’s not your first time visit or a first timer’s introduction to journey through Italy’s capital city: there’s no better way than experiencing it firsthand!