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One of the oldest cities in the world, dating back two and a half thousand years, Rome is blessed with striking historical monuments, fascinating architecture, and delicious cuisine. It is one of Europe’s 15 best UNESCO World Heritage Sites. So if you’re coming for the first time, you may be wondering what to see and do.
Often referred to as the ‘Eternal City,’ Rome houses many things to see and do. So much so that planning your visit can be a little overwhelming, especially if you are visiting Rome for the first time.
In this article, I will delve into the best things to do in Rome for first-time visitors.
Best Things to Do in Rome
1. The Colosseum
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Colosseum is arguably the most famous landmark in Rome.
One of the largest amphitheaters in the world, the Colosseum was built as a venue for gladiatorial contests and other public spectacles, such as animal hunts, mock sea battles, and dramatic performances. Construction for this majestic monument first began in 72 AD.
Being one of the most popular attractions in the city, the Colosseum can get pretty busy. It’s important to note that tickets are almost exclusively sold online, so be sure to purchase them online before your visit.
PRO TIP: Enjoy a refreshing beverage at Oppio Caffe while you wait for your tour. You’ll get a beautiful view of the Colosseum!
2. Palatine Hill
Considered the birthplace of Rome, Palatine Hill is believed to have been inhabited since 1000 BC. Legend has it that this hill housed the cave where a she-wolf nursed Romulus and Remus.
Today this mystical hill, which stands 168 feet above sea level, houses a host of ruins, including the Flavian Palace, which was the residence of the emperors in the first century AD, and the Palace of Domitian, which was built in the late first century AD.
A visit to Palatine Hill provides a tranquil change of scenery from the busy city to a more natural setting. Tall pine trees stand alongside the ruins, with beautiful wildflowers at their bases. This site isn’t as busy as some of the more famous ruins, such as the Coliseum.
Being positioned on a hill, you will also be gifted with fabulous views of the city, including the neighboring Colosseum.
PRO TIP: Your Colosseum admission tickets often include Tickets to Palatine Hill.
3. The Roman Forum
One of the most important architectural sights in the world, the Roman Forum, is a rectangular plaza that can be found in the heart of Rome.
The site comprises numerous ancient ruins, including four temples, the Senate House, the Rostra (a platform on which people would give speeches), and the Sacra Via (the main road that connected all sites).
The open-air plaza was used in ancient Rome for public meetings, law courts, and gladiatorial combats.
The site is still being excavated, with the most recent findings occurring in 2009.
PRO TIP: Tickets to visit the Roman Forum are best purchased online. You can purchase tickets that combine access to the Colosseum and Palatine Hill.
4. Trevi Fountain
Nestled in the heart of the city is perhaps one of the most romantic attractions within Rome. The Trevi Fountain is a magnificent 26-foot-tall theatrical display of water, featuring a large central statue of Neptune, the Roman god of the sea.
Its grand size and beautiful design make the Trevi Fountain arguably the most famous fountain in the world.
According to tradition, visitors to the fountain should toss a coin over their shoulder with their right hand into the water to receive good luck. The practice is so popular that an estimated €3,000 are thrown into the fountain daily! The money is collected and donated to charity.
PRO TIP: There is often a large crowd trying to get their photo here. Be patient and you too will get to try your lucky coin toss!
5. Vatican City
In the center of Italy is the smallest independent state-nation in the world, spanning an area of a mere 0.44 kilometers and housing just 800 people.
Vatican City is the spiritual and administrative center of the Roman Catholic Church and is home to some of Rome’s most spectacular monuments, including the impressive St. Peter’s Basilica.
The city is surrounded on most sides by medieval and Renaissance walls except on the southeast at St. Peter’s Square, which is one of three entry points into this unique state.
Within the city, you will find the Vatican Palace, the pope’s residence.
PRO TIP: Purchase your tickets in advance! They often sell out months ahead. And wear comfortable walking shoes!
6. St. Peter’s Basilica
The largest church in the world, St. Peter’s Basilica, is considered the center of the Roman Catholic Church.
The original basilica was constructed in the 4th century over the tomb of St. Peter, one of the twelve apostles of Jesus Christ. A new basilica was later constructed, replacing the original, and was designed by some of the most famous architects of the Renaissance.
The magnificent church is located on the western side of St. Peter’s Square and is the entrance to the Vatican City.
Entrance to St. Peter’s Basilica is free of charge.
PRO TIP: If you want to beat the lengthy queues, purchase skip-the-line tickets online.
7. St. Peter’s Square
To the east of Vatican City, you will find St. Peter’s Square, a large trapezoidal space with incredible monuments on all sides. To the west of the square, you will find the largest church in the world, St. Peter’s Basilica.
Much of the square is surrounded by two magnificent colonnades consisting of 284 columns and 88 pilasters. These were designed to symbolize the outstretched arms of the Catholic Church, welcoming visitors to the Vatican.
You will also find two fountains in St. Peter’s Square, perched on either side of the obelisk, a tall granite structure that dates back to Egyptian times.
8. The Pantheon
Considered one of the oldest preserved buildings in the world, the Pantheon was originally built as a Roman temple to all the gods of ancient Rome by Marcus Agrippa in 27 BC.
The Pantheon has undergone various transformations throughout history, most notably being rebuilt after two terrible fires. It was then converted into a Christian church in the 7th century.
Characterized by large granite columns and one of the world’s largest unsupported domes, the architecture is truly spectacular.
Entrance to the Pantheon is free of charge.
9. Enjoy Gelato
No visit to Rome is complete without sampling some of the local food. Italian Gelato is one of the most popular delicacies. There are undoubtedly plenty of gelaterias in Rome. But it’s important to remember that not all gelatos are created equal.
Grom, located on the Plaza Navona, offers a delicious assortment of flavors. Pick up a tasty treat as you people-watch in the Plaza. They have multiple locations in Italy and throughout the world.
Gelateria Valentino, close to Quirinal Palace, is one of the best places to enjoy Gelato in the entire city. This eatery serves various flavors of ice cream, including vegan options.
10. Villa Borghese Gardens
Considered Rome’s green lung, Villa Borghese Gardens can be found north of the city, perched on Pincian Hill. Covering an extensive 80 hectares, the park incorporates numerous buildings, museums, statues, and other striking attractions.
The most beautiful part of the park is the picturesque Tempio di Esculapio, a 1786 temple in the middle of a lake connected to land via a wooden pier.
Another impressive park feature is Arco Romano, a large stone arch.
Villa Borghese Gardens is a beautiful spot where you can find yourself surrounded by various plants and trees. It’s a great place to stroll or simply sit on a bench and admire your surroundings.
Entry to the park is free of charge.
11. Indulge in Cacio E Pepe or Carbonara
Cacio e pepe is a traditional dish from Rome. The name literally means ‘cheese and pepper.’ It’s a simple yet beautiful dish, combining only three ingredients: pasta, fresh ground pepper, and pecorino Romano cheese.
Roma Sparita is one of the best places in Rome to try this famous dish. The restaurant has a cozy country-style interior and serves various local pasta and pizza dishes.
Another fantastic restaurant is La Taverna dei Fori Imperiali. This family-run eatery serves a delicious cacio e pepe with a sprinkling of fresh truffles, amongst many other mouth-watering dishes.
Or try pasta carbonara at Osteria da Fortuna. Made with bacon, pecorino cheese, and eggs, this classic dish is another Roman classic. At Osteria da Fortuna, you’ll see the pasta being made by hand. You can’t miss this place since there will often be a long line of people waiting patiently for their turn.
12. Milite Ignoto
On the southern end of Piazza Venezia stands Milite Ignoto, the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. This grand war memorial stands beneath the goddess Roma at the Altare della Patria. It’s a tribute to all the Italian soldiers killed or missing in the war. There are 11 bodies of unknown soldiers buried at the altar.
The tomb is an incredibly beautiful structure, and gazing while knowing its meaning and history can prove quite a moving experience.
13. Basilica Papale di Santa Maria Maggiore
Built on a pagan temple dedicated to the goddess Cybele, Basilica Papale di Santa Maria Maggiore is one of the four papal basilicas in Rome. It is the largest of the eighty churches dedicated to the Virgin Mary within the city.
This stunning church is one of the oldest in Rome and is renowned for its intricate architecture and stunning artwork. Over the centuries, the church has undergone countless renovations and additions. Today it is a magnificent example of both medieval and baroque architecture.
The basilica is very close to the train station and is free to enter.
14. Piazza del Campidoglio
Standing proudly at Capitoline Hill is Piazza del Campidoglio, a public square surrounded by three main buildings: the Palazzo Senatorio (Senatorial Palace) and two palaces that make up the Capitoline Museums. In the center of the square is a bronze statue of Marcus Aurelius.
Piazza del Campidoglio is most famous for housing the Capitoline Museums.
The museums are home to some incredible works of art. However, they are most famous for featuring the original sculpture of the Capitoline Wolf, a famous statue that depicts Romulus and Remus suckling from a she-wolf.
15. Piazza di Spagna (and the Spanish Steps!)
At the bottom of the famous Spanish Steps sits Piazza di Spagna, one of the most famous squares in Rome.
In the center of the square stands Fontana della Barcaccia, which translates to ‘Fountain of the ugly boat,’ a 17th-century fountain shaped like a ship. The fountain can be found directly below the Spanish Steps.
The highlight of the square is of course, the 135-step tall Spanish staircase, which Pope Benedict XIII inaugurated during the 1725 Jubilee. The staircase leads to the French monastery church, Trinita dei Monti, built between 1502 and 1587.
Also found in the square is the Column of the Immaculate Conception, a 19th-century bronze statue atop a tall marble column.
PRO TIP: You can fill your water bottle with the fountain’s waters.
16. Trastevere
This formerly working-class district is now a trendy, bohemian neighborhood renowned for its vibrant nightlife, stylish boutiques, and innovative trattorias.
The area is steeped with history and with cobbled streets surrounded by medieval buildings. With ivy-clad facades and largely car-free streets, Trastevere is the perfect place to retreat to escape the hustle and bustle of central Rome.
Trastevere is best visited in the evening, when the restaurants and bars fill out, creating an electric atmosphere.
One of the best ways to enjoy Trastevere is to take a culinary walking tour to several of the district’s most beloved eateries, where you can sample the delicious local cuisine.
Where to Stay in Rome
Luxury: Hotel Artemide is ideally located just a stone’s throw away from Rome’s best attractions, including Trevi Fountain and the Colosseum. It’s a modern yet cozy four-star hotel that enjoys exceptional online reviews.
Mid-Range: Hotel Boutique Nazionale is a charming boutique hotel around 10 minutes’ walk from the Trevi Fountain and Colosseum.
Affordable: Hotel Mimosa Pantheon is just 150 yards from the mighty Pantheon, in the heart of Rome. It features modern rooms.
Final Thoughts on the Best Things to Do in Rome
Rome is a sprawling city that is dotted with countless historical monuments. It’s perfect for those fascinated with history or foodies who can’t get enough Italian food or coffee. There really is something for everyone in this picturesque city!
Have you been to Rome before? What was your favorite thing?
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Happy travels,
Annick, The Common Traveler
Raised as a third culture kid living in South America and Europe, Annick caught the travel bug early. As an empty-nester, Annick enjoys sharing her tips for traveling for those with champagne taste and beer budgets.