What to do in Rome at Night? A Guide to the Eternal City After Dark

When night falls in the Eternal City, that’s when its magic truly shines. Ancient ruins lit with floodlights, cobblestone passageways winding its way through vivid piazzas and meandering footsteps discovering a Roman night out — tapas and vino, delicious appetizers and pastas, espresso and limoncello — come alive! It’s no wonder Rome holds a special place in hundreds of thousands of people’s hearts worldwide.

So if you’re wondering what to do in Rome at night, wonder no more! Follow us in this guide for the most exciting activities taking place after dark in one of Europe’s most beautiful and romantic cities.

1. Explore the Illuminated Ruins of the Colosseum

Rome by night means exploring history in a whole new light — literally. The Colosseum, one of the most ancient ruins in the world and the greatest amphitheater ever built, is open to visits even after dark, when it is illuminated in warm, romantic tones.

Nitelife Tours offer a unique, evening version of their famous Ancient Appian Way walking tour, which will lead you under the Colosseum archway and into the Imperial Fora in splendor. The tour will be escorted by an extensively knowledgeable guide, there to answer all your questions about the secrets of Ancient Rome.

2. Take an Evening Cruise on the Tiber River

A delightful way to discover nighttime Rome is to board a Tiber River Cruise and drift away with the waters of this legendary river. You’ll be greeted by the most beautiful monuments of Rome slowly illuminated with twinkling lights, such as Castel Sant’Angelo, St Peter’s dome, the Vatican city, Bridge of Angels and Isola Tiberina. You can relax in the cozy atmosphere of this evening cruise while discovering the romantic side of Rome.

3. See a Performance at the Open Air Theater “Circo Massimo’

Circo Massimo is an open air theater located between Aventine Hill and the Palatine Hill in the heart of Ancient Rome. It first became known as a showplace during Julius Caesar’s reign and during summer months, it hosts ballets, operas and concerts surrounded by the city’s iconic monuments. It’s impossible not to have a blast as you witness one of Rome’s lively atmosphere celebrated before one of the city’s most beloved sites.

4. Have a Nightcap at the Historic Piazza Navona

Piazza Navona is one of the oldest and most beloved squares in Rome, known for hosting all manner of festivities throughout the years. As night falls, flock to one of the many lively cafés that surround it, serving up delicious drinks from espressos and cappuccinos to custom-made cocktails and limoncello. Here you’ll find some of Rome’s liveliest dancing scene among beautiful fountains and sculptures, a showcase of the city’s beauty and local spirit.

5. Enjoy a Guided Vespa Tour

Nothing says “dolce vita’ quite like a Vespa guided tour through Rome after dark. From nightfall until dawn you’ll be cruising through eternal city streets in a bright yellow Vespa scooter accompanied by experienced drivers/guides that will show you around and tell stories about landmarks like Campo de Fiori, Piazza Navona, Pantheon and many more. Opt for a 3-hour tour to give yourself plenty of time for enjoying views of the Trevi Fountain, the Spanish Steps and perhaps even a midnight stop for gelato.

6. Admire the Forgotten Catacombs

Delve deep into Rome down its forgotten passageways and corridors, offbeat but still full of character – while paying your respects to Rome’s many dead! Delight in ghostly beauty as you explore sets of underground hallways, marveling at early Christian art decorating its walls. Many catacombs hide ancient religious stories under candlelight – all accompanied by an expert guide who will make sure you don’t get lost – and tales about mysterious hermits that laid for rest there years ago.

Conclusion

If you’re looking for something extraordinary and unexpected to do in Rome at night, look no further! From walking among ancient ruins and taking evening cruises on rivers, to watching performances at open-air theatres or having a relaxing nightcap by an iconic piazza – these activities come together for an unforgettable night out in Italy!

But for those who are seeking a truly unique experience in Rome after dark, we highly recommend a guided Vespa tour – like Rome By Night Vespa Tour with Driver/Private Guide – that will take you deep into some of Rome’s most iconic sights while soaking up its unique atmosphere and local culture. Book it today and create memories that will last a lifetime!