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Discover 76 Fun & Unusual Things to Do in Rome, Italy

Discover 76 Fun & Unusual Things to Do in Rome, Italy

A shining beacon of Roman history and a melting pot of some of Europe’s — scratch that, the world’s most delectable food, it’s no wonder that the Italian capital welcomes over nine million visitors each and every year.

Thanks to its eclectic mix of past and present, fast-paced and slow, and its proximity to places like the Amalfi Coast and Pompeii, there’s no shortage of things to do in Rome, Italy.

Need help deciding what to do first? Then read on!

1 – See Michaelangelo’s Last Judgement at the Vatican Museums

Discover 76 Fun & Unusual Things to Do in Rome, Italy

This labyrinth museum has over five miles of corridors and breathtaking art ranging from Ancient Egypt to contemporary paintings, with themes of divinity and spirituality running throughout.

Often the fresco art is literally plastered on the walls! Visitors love the exciting and chaotic Last Judgement, depicting the Second Coming of Christ.

2 – Climb the dome at St Peter’s Basilica

Discover 76 Fun & Unusual Things to Do in Rome, Italy

The soul of the world itself resonates from the Basilica, a product of the Renaissance’s finest artists including Michaelangelo, Raphael, and Bramante.

The Pope’s local church took 120 years to build and is brimming with spirituality as well as incredible fine art.

At the top of the dome are unparalleled views of Rome itself!

3 – Stare at the ceiling at the Sistine Chapel

Discover 76 Fun & Unusual Things to Do in Rome, Italy

Ever complained about how long it took to paint your house? Well, this ceiling took four years to paint!

The artistic apex is Michaelangelo’s The Creation of Adam — elsewhere, Michaelangelo paints people both clothed and nude to flex his skill in depicting people in different poses.

The entire Chapel is a living, breathing masterpiece!

Learn how to book Sistine Chapel early access tickets.

4 – Visit the Colosseum and Ancient Rome

Discover 76 Fun & Unusual Things to Do in Rome, Italy

As the saying goes, all roads lead to Rome!

The crown jewel of the ancient world is the roaring Colosseum – just imagine the lions and the gladiators battling it out!

A tour will show you the well-preserved great city which once controlled the world as you get a glimpse of Roman life!

Read more about Colosseum tickets price.

5 – See the macabre Capuchin Crypt and Roman catacombs

Discover 76 Fun & Unusual Things to Do in Rome, Italy

During years of Roman oppression 2,000 years ago, Christians were forced to practice in secret under the streets.

Fast forward to today, and the maze of secret, underground tunnels — which doubled as a place of worship and a sacred burial ground with solid rock tombs — remain mostly intact.

Don’t forget to check out the Capuchin Crypt, a chapel lined with the bones of 3,700 monks.

Read more about the Catacombs of Rome tickets.

6 – Tour the Pantheon

Discover 76 Fun & Unusual Things to Do in Rome, Italy

One of the most underrated historical things to do in Rome is this 2,000-year old temple dedicated to the gods – one of the city’s best-preserved and most influential buildings!

The stunning design inspired Michaelangelo and others while the sun beaming through the oculus basks the temple in a spiritual glow.

7 – Design your ultimate holiday house on a day-trip to Tivoli

Discover 76 Fun & Unusual Things to Do in Rome, Italy

Looking for a holiday house?

See two of the best on a Tivoli trip! When Hadrian’s Villa was built it was larger than Imperial Rome with its own temples, theaters, and baths.

The Villa D’Este is renowned for the Hundred Fountains among pristine gardens, trees, and artificial waterfalls.

The perfect place to escape the busy city!

8 – Be blessed by the Pope

Discover 76 Fun & Unusual Things to Do in Rome, Italy

Every Wednesday, Pope Francis I graces either St Peter’s Square or Nervi Hall for the weekly papal audience.

He greets pilgrims and groups in each language, imparts some divine wisdom onto the crowd, then leads the audience in collective prayer.

Less-religious visitors love the opportunity for reflection and spirituality.

Read more about Papal Audience tickets.

9 – Channel your inner art-lover at the Borghese Gallery

Discover 76 Fun & Unusual Things to Do in Rome, Italy

Along with the huge collection of swanky art by the likes of Raphael, Bernini, and Caravaggio are grand statues of famous Roman Emperors for you to come face-to-face with!

After wading through this petri dish of fine fresco, paintings, and sculpture; head to the Villa’s remarkable gardens for views over the Piazza del Popolo!

Learn how to book last-minute Bhorgese Gallery tickets.

10 – See the Sacred Steps at the Archbasilica of St. John Lateran

Discover 76 Fun & Unusual Things to Do in Rome, Italy

Rome’s oldest basilica is a stunner!

There are relics dating back to Ancient Egypt, giant mosaics, marble statues, Renaissance artwork, a gothic altar, and the Sacred Steps where Jesus climbed during the Passion!

If you’re really lucky, the divine Holy Door is opened once every 25 years, with its next opening in 2025!

11 – Ride the glass elevator to the Vittoriano

Discover 76 Fun & Unusual Things to Do in Rome, Italy

The monolithic marble ‘Altar of the Fatherland’ monument in Piazza Venezia hides the most spectacular vantage point of the Eternal City!

The 360-degree panoramic views of Rome really puts the city into perspective as the capital of an ancient empire, a middle-age marvel, and a modern metropolis all in one!

12 – Go on a hop-on hop-off bus tour

Discover 76 Fun & Unusual Things to Do in Rome, Italy

Overwhelmed by all the things to do in Rome?

This open-air bus is a great way to explore the city with bus stops at all major tourist attractions, audio-tours in a bunch of languages, and buses leaving so often there’s always another one just around the corner!

The bus even has free Wi-Fi!

Read our blog post about Rome hop-on hop-off bus tours.

13 – Explore the eerie streets of Pompeii

Discover 76 Fun & Unusual Things to Do in Rome, Italy

After a sudden and fiery volcanic eruption at nearby Mt Vesuvius, the great city of Pompeii was preserved in volcanic ash.

Today you can walk the streets, go inside houses, and enter restaurants frozen in time 2,000 years ago on that fateful day!

It’s eerie, immersive, and simply unforgettable!

Read how to book Pompeii skip-the-line tickets.

14 – Ride an electric bike down Appian Way

Discover 76 Fun & Unusual Things to Do in Rome, Italy

Ready to feel the wind through your hair on a 2,000-year-old country road?

The scenery will leave you breathless — but if you don’t want to be out of breath pedaling, let the electric bike do its thing!

The color contrast of green fields alongside golden-brown soil between ancient ruins is unmissable, so take a few snaps before riding by Rome’s most famous sites!

15 – Try a fried artichoke at the Jewish Ghetto

Discover 76 Fun & Unusual Things to Do in Rome, Italy

Get a taste of real Rome by going a little off the beaten path in this historic area.

Starting at the bank of the Tiber River, you’ll see remnants from ancient through to modern times, all perfectly layered like an onion – or perhaps like a fried artichoke?

If you have a little time, try the local delicacy!

16 – Hear the tales of the town on a segway tour

Discover 76 Fun & Unusual Things to Do in Rome, Italy

Gliding past the major tourist attractions and hidden gems while a local guide delivers great anecdotes about the city and advice on things to do in Rome is an ideal way to start your journey!

Don’t be worried about the segway either, they’re fun and easy to ride… jus a quick lesson and you’re on your way!

17 – Do a walking tour around Piazza Navona

Discover 76 Fun & Unusual Things to Do in Rome, Italy

Make a wish and throw a coin in the gorgeous Trevi Fountain!

Nearby, the pitter-patter of Piazza Navona is the heartbeat of the city with the Fountain of the Four Rivers is similarly beautiful.

Then round off your tour with a rich Italian coffee and Rome’s famous ‘dolce far niente’; the sweetness of doing nothing!

18 – Tour Rome on a Vespa sidecar

Discover 76 Fun & Unusual Things to Do in Rome, Italy

Avoid the crowded tour buses.

Get into a quaint and charming Vespa built for two, plus your driver who will take you around the Eternal City and her beautiful sights.

The narrow Vespa is perfect for getting into those narrow cobblestone-paved streets where other vehicles could only dream of entering!

19 – Stroll through the Vatican Gardens

Discover 76 Fun & Unusual Things to Do in Rome, Italy

For almost a thousand years, the lush gardens have been a place of retreat, relaxation, and recreation for the Pope and those in the know!

Visitors love coming on a sunny day, putting the phone away, and taking a moment to reflect among the hustle and bustle of the Italian capital.

20 – Follow Professor Langdon on an Angels & Demons tour

Discover 76 Fun & Unusual Things to Do in Rome, Italy

Calling all Dan Brown and Tom Hanks fans!

Discover the lost symbols, riddles, and secrets sprinkled throughout Rome which would normally take a detective’s eye to spot!

The Illuminati tour brings the famous novel to life in front of your eyes, with the added bonus of a coffee-pitstop at around the halfway mark.

21 – Choose-your-own-adventure in a Fiat 500 tour

Discover 76 Fun & Unusual Things to Do in Rome, Italy

Discover Rome in comfort and style in one of the most recognizable vintage cars Europe has to offer!

The upshot to this tour is that travelers can customize their tour!

Want an overview of the major sites? Want a deep dive into historical sites? Want to see all the fine art and shopping? Tell your driver!

22 – Get your Money Heist on in an Escape Room

Discover 76 Fun & Unusual Things to Do in Rome, Italy

The world-famous, adrenaline-pumping Escape Rooms are a thrill no matter where you are!

Enter a room and when the door bolts behind you, you have an hour to solve the riddles and escape by scouring the room for answers.

The rooms and puzzles have themes like prison escape, bank assault, insane asylum, and more!

23 – Play a scavenger game across Rome

Discover 76 Fun & Unusual Things to Do in Rome, Italy

If a walking-tour isn’t fast-paced and exciting enough, explore Rome and the Vatican like contestants on the Amazing Race!

16 sealed envelopes lead you on challenges across the city that will guide you through all the major attractions in a whole new light over the course of 5-6 hours – so, are you ready?

24 – Take a street-art tour in Ostiense

Discover 76 Fun & Unusual Things to Do in Rome, Italy

Rome isn’t all fine art and Renaissance sculpture, the street-art scene is vibing too!

The lively Ostiense neighborhood with bars and nightclubs is a bohemian canvas and full of great food to match.

Look out for Blu’s colored faces in a former homeless shelter and ROA’s Jumping off Wolf – the wolf being the symbol of Rome!

25 – Explore Trastevere on a foodie tour

Discover 76 Fun & Unusual Things to Do in Rome, Italy

It’s hard to think about Italy without its incredible food.

The Trastevere neighborhood will dazzle your eyes with marble fountains, and cobblestone streets; while delighting your tastebuds with wine, cheese, prosciutto, gelato, and of course, pizza!

On the way, learn the legend of Margaret of Savoy and the famous dish named after her – the Margherita pizza!

26 – Head to the Amalfi Coast

Discover 76 Fun & Unusual Things to Do in Rome, Italy

Picture colorful houses perched on rocky cliffs plunging into azure waters and you’ve just pictured Amalfi Coast!

On the stunning shoreline lies the dynamic waterside villages of Sorrento and Positano – two gastronomic giants with gorgeous views and charming piazzas perfect for lunch and a limoncello.

If you have time, go on a nearby hike!

27 – Let history come alive at Castel Sant’Angelo

Discover 76 Fun & Unusual Things to Do in Rome, Italy

If these walls could talk you’d be in for a story!

The resting place of Roman Emperors, a fortress and Papal residence; and now a Museum which has seen sackings, deaths, and where the Archangel Michael descended to end the plague of 590!

The view of Rome from here is also top-notch.

28 – Discover the hidden gems of Tuscany

Discover 76 Fun & Unusual Things to Do in Rome, Italy

There are a million things to do in Tuscany on a short trip from Rome!

Pair wine and cheese in the vineyards of the rolling Tuscan countryside; explore the artistic and architectural haven that is Florence; see the leaning tower of Pisa; and catch the medieval Palio horse racing in Siena!

29 – Set your alarm clock for a sunrise hot-air balloon ride

Discover 76 Fun & Unusual Things to Do in Rome, Italy

What better way is there to see Rome than from the sky?

Take a scenic flight in a Hot Air Balloon as you glide over the beautiful city and countryside at sunrise.

It is a truly unique experience with added glam as you celebrate with a complimentary wine toast with salami as you land!

30 – Wine and dine on a Tiber River cruise

Discover 76 Fun & Unusual Things to Do in Rome, Italy

Don’t be afraid to get a little romantic!

Cruising through the heart of Rome on the Tiber is a fabulous and unique way to see the sights.

Enhance the experience with a glass of Italian wine and some appetizers, with that perfect playlist in the background as the sun sets over the Eternal City.

31 – Walk the footsteps of the ancient Romans at Ostia Antica

Discover 76 Fun & Unusual Things to Do in Rome, Italy

Experience a day in the life of a Roman!

A guide will bring the buildings around you to life as you walk the Decumanus Maximus thoroughfare to the Baths of Neptune, before you cheer and take your seat at the amphitheater for chariot racing — bizarrely, if it tickles your fancy, you can also try out the ancient public washrooms!

32 – See the Blue Grotto at Capri Island

Discover 76 Fun & Unusual Things to Do in Rome, Italy

A short jet-boat ride from Naples, Capri is an island of treasures!

The vibrant houses, artisanal merchants, and luxury boutiques add to the stunning colors and sights of the island itself.

Travelers love the warm glows of the famous Blue Grotto, but try rowing a boat along the shoreline for another equally impressive view!

33 – Explore the Roman countryside on horseback

Discover 76 Fun & Unusual Things to Do in Rome, Italy

Don’t let the country views pass you by through the window of a tour bus.

The Italian countryside is absolutely stunning — and just a stone’s throw from Rome!

Feel the fresh air, enjoy the unobstructed views, and most importantly, rest those weary legs on horseback!

Complete your tour with breakfast or lunch from local produce.

34 – Go rafting in the Marmore Falls

Discover 76 Fun & Unusual Things to Do in Rome, Italy

Thrill-seekers will be quick to add this to their list of things to do in Rome.

Europe’s highest waterfall flows through the Nera River for 2 miles of 4th-degree rapids, flanked by views of lush greenery and vegetation!

When you’re done there, the Marmore Falls Natural Park has lovely trails and picnic spots!

35 – Wander Rome’s streets lit by moonlight

Discover 76 Fun & Unusual Things to Do in Rome, Italy

When the streets and squares are bathed in the gentle glow of street-lamps and moonlight, Rome will really take your breath away!

The Eternal City’s glorious monuments (don’t miss the Colosseum night tour) look stunning when lit up at night, with the bonus of fewer tourists blocking the way so you can see them up close and personal!

Read more about the best Rome night tours.

36 – Don’t bring a towel to Caracalla Baths

Discover 76 Fun & Unusual Things to Do in Rome, Italy

See the weird and wonderful ways the Romans would relax, study and play sport at this ancient spa!

Among the colorful mosaics and equally colorful gossip of the day, the engineering and architectural ingenuity to keep the water hot and the building standing is thoroughly impressive.

A welcomed change from the tourist traps, the Baths give a glimpse into ordinary Roman life.

37 – Ride the world’s longest, fastest zipline at Rocca Massima

Discover 76 Fun & Unusual Things to Do in Rome, Italy

The quiet, medieval village of Rocca Massima is an unlikely home for a thrilling zipline.

Zip through 2 kilometers of zipline 730 meters above the picturesque village for stunning views of the village and nearby slopes, peaking at 160 kph!

If you need to hold someone’s hand, you can ride as a tandem.

38 – Take a day-trip to Orvieto & Assisi

Discover 76 Fun & Unusual Things to Do in Rome, Italy

Wind through the Umbrian hills from Rome.

Orvieto’s magnificent 14th-century cathedral and surroundings are the pinnacles of gothic architecture, then at the foot of Mount Subasio, the green slopes of Assisi in the ancient city walls are amazing to explore!

In between, taste the local Umbrian wines and local dishes for lunch!

39 – Paraglide through the Central Apennine mountains

Discover 76 Fun & Unusual Things to Do in Rome, Italy

Ever dreaming of flying through the sky?

Da Vinci and many others sure did, and there’s nowhere better to do it than in these mountains – the Wild Heart of Italy!

Admire the views from a vantage point you could only dream of as you soar like an eagle through the mountain tops.

40 – Understand the mind of history’s greatest genius at the Leonardo da Vinci Museum

Discover 76 Fun & Unusual Things to Do in Rome, Italy

Inventor. Scientist. Artist. Engineer. Architect. Renaissance man. Da Vinci is definitely on the podium as one of history’s greatest brainiacs!

Follow his story and step into his mind at this museum to see just how much he did, including 65 working wooden models of his inventions created by the da Vinci codes!

Whether you opt for a museum visit, exhibition tour, or VIP experience, an insightful day is guaranteed.

41 – See the Marcus Aurelius statue at the Capitoline Museums

Discover 76 Fun & Unusual Things to Do in Rome, Italy

The oldest archaeological museum in the world is an exciting history book brought to life, but there’s so much more around here too!

Piazza del Campidoglio was designed by Michaelangelo and so beloved it was used on 50-cent coins, and Piazza Venezia contains the Vittoriano dedicated to Italy’s first king fitted with a glass elevator!

42 – Taste wine in the Frascati region

Discover 76 Fun & Unusual Things to Do in Rome, Italy

Want to try an Italian wine?

The grapevines and olive groves of the Frascati region are a peaceful oasis to relax away from the busy city – they also have some of the world’s best wine and bruschetta available to taste!

Your sommelier will make you into a true connoisseur, or maybe just a wine lover!

43 – Take an Italian cooking class

Discover 76 Fun & Unusual Things to Do in Rome, Italy

For all you culinary artists, add this to your list of things to do in Rome.

Capture the flavors of Italian cooking with local chefs in an intimate class, all with a glass or two of wine!

Soon you will be making authentic pizza, pasta, and delicious tiramisu to impress your Nonna back home.

44 – Take in an opera

Discover 76 Fun & Unusual Things to Do in Rome, Italy

When in Rome, do as the Romans do!

The locals love their opera and build their opera houses to match.

You will fall in love with the facade and interior design of the 17th century Palazzo Santa Chiara before the show even starts, while Teatro dell’Opera di Roma is known for its legendary acoustics!

45 – Meet all the animals at Bioparco Zoo

Discover 76 Fun & Unusual Things to Do in Rome, Italy

A sanctuary of exotic animals to marvel at in the heart of Rome!

This great escape is loved by kids and adults alike with plenty of cuddly (and not-so-cuddly) creatures calling Bioparco home.

While you’re there, be sure to check out the endangered animals and learn a little about the important conservation efforts taking place.

46 – Meet Julius Caesar at the Time Elevator

Discover 76 Fun & Unusual Things to Do in Rome, Italy

The Time Elevator uses state-of-the-art surround sound, video effects, and moving platforms to take you through 3,000 years of Roman history!

See the founding of Rome, hear the plot to take down Julius Caesar, and follow the story of Rome all the way up to the present day. Finish your trip with a picture in traditional Roman costume!

47 – Find a bargain at Castel Romano Designer Outlet

Discover 76 Fun & Unusual Things to Do in Rome, Italy

What do you get when you cross 156 leading designer stores, 9 restaurants, and one credit card?

You get Castel Romano with famous Italian and international labels offering as much as 30-70% off their stock!

For a little help carrying those bags, arrange for an air-conditioned minivan to take you to/from your hotel!

48 – Go skydiving at Nettuno

Discover 76 Fun & Unusual Things to Do in Rome, Italy

Skydiving is at the top of everyone’s bucket list.

Get up to 4000 meters and take a deep breath before you get the adrenaline-hit of a lifetime and views of Rome to match – all you have to do is jump!

To show off to your friends, you’ll get a DVD of your jump and a participation certificate.

49 – Don’t get spooked on a Ghost Tour

Discover 76 Fun & Unusual Things to Do in Rome, Italy

The legends and mysteries of the Eternal City which saw it all give rise to plenty of folklore and ghost stories!

See the house of Rome’s most notorious murderer, the bridge haunted by the female Pope, and learn Rome tried to tackle crime and the plague by burning heretics and hanging pictures!

50 – See the Papal Palace of Castel Gandolfo

Discover 76 Fun & Unusual Things to Do in Rome, Italy

The Pope’s summer holiday house is a great place to escape.

The ancient villas overlook a crystal lake with landscaped gardens on either side and contain art, a theater, and a circus!

On a guided audio tour of the facility, keen visitors will learn a little about the politics, stories, and controversies of the different Popes who inhabited it in decades gone by.

51 – Ride through Rome on a golf-cart

Discover 76 Fun & Unusual Things to Do in Rome, Italy

Roam past palaces, churches, monuments, fountains, and galleries on a family-friendly and well-covered golf cart!

Save your legs from the seven hills of Rome as you get acquainted with Italy’s beating heart and the long-time capital of the Western world.

You even have the option of customizing your tour’s itinerary in line with your interests!

52 – Check out the Gladiator School Museum

Discover 76 Fun & Unusual Things to Do in Rome, Italy

Sharpen your sword and don your tunic!

Learn the basics of authentic gladiator sword-fighting and wield your weapon in a gladiator tournament with the other students, or picture yourself in the Colosseum face-to-face with a lion and in front of thousands of screaming fans!

You’ll be sure to give this a thumbs-up.

53 – Watch the Rome derby at Stadio Olimpico

Discover 76 Fun & Unusual Things to Do in Rome, Italy

When the two local football teams do battle here (Lazio and AS Roma), Stadio Olimpico is the modern Colosseum!

70,000 fans will pack the stadium for a derby, with an atmosphere unlike anything else; otherwise, watching either side host a football match is still a treat.

The stadium also sometimes hosts rugby unions, athletics, and concerts.

54 – Have a picnic at the Villa Doria Pamphili gardens

Discover 76 Fun & Unusual Things to Do in Rome, Italy

The gardens around the 17th-century villa earn the title of the largest public park in the city!

The sea of greenery with statues and fountains throughout is a great place to settle down and relax on a sunny afternoon with a rustic Italian picnic lunch, before touring the opulent Villa itself with a magnificent display of sculptures.

55 – See three countries at once at the Garden of Oranges

Discover 76 Fun & Unusual Things to Do in Rome, Italy

The romantic walks through Parco Savello’s orange trees lead to beautiful panoramic views of Rome and the Vatican City!

The third country — one seldom known by tourists or locals — is the mini-state of the Sovereign Military Hospitaller Order of Saint John of Jerusalem of Rhodes and of Malta.

Find the door with the keyhole to see all three countries at once!

56 – Lights! Camera! Actions! at the Cinecitta Studio Tour and Museum

Discover 76 Fun & Unusual Things to Do in Rome, Italy

Hollywood on the Tiber is Europe’s largest film studio!

The studios and backlots have been graced by Sergio Leone, Martin Scorsese, Francis Ford Coppola, and Mel Gibson!

See sets from the television show Rome and from the films The Two Popes and Gangs of New York!

A studio and backlot tour will delight any film buffs, that’s for sure.

57 – Browse MAXXI contemporary art museum

Discover 76 Fun & Unusual Things to Do in Rome, Italy

The extravagant museum building is an award-winning architectural marvel, fitting Rome’s reputation for having grand and awe-inspiring buildings!

Roman art is more than just ancient artifacts and Renaissance portraits; inside, the gallery displays the best of contemporary art by local and international artists, while also hosting classes and talks for artistic and cultural innovation.

58 – See the owls of the Casina delle Civette

Discover 76 Fun & Unusual Things to Do in Rome, Italy

Plenty of tourists overlook the rustic ‘House of the Owls’, home of former Prince Giovanna Torlonia Jr., but it’s a hidden gem certainly worthy of a visit!

The owl motif appears everywhere: stained glass windows, in the furniture, and in the decor!

All up, the decorative house is a petri dish of experimental artistic expression with mixed aesthetics.

59 – Catch a movie at Villa Medici’s open-air cinema

Discover 76 Fun & Unusual Things to Do in Rome, Italy

The fantastically preserved 16th-century French villa and gardens wouldn’t look out of place around Versailles, but lucky for travelers to Rome it’s just around the corner!

Parts of the elegant Villa are only accessible by private tour, but it holds events and exhibitions in its rooms and gardens for art, film, and music.

60 – Have fun at Rainbow Magicland

Discover 76 Fun & Unusual Things to Do in Rome, Italy

Rainbow Magicland amusement park with 180 factory shows nearby is a playground for older and younger travelers alike!

Dine on a medieval banquet in front of a live jousting show, or for thrill-seekers, the Cagliostro indoor roller coaster will turn you around and upside down.

For the best bang for your buck, grab a ticket that also includes entry to ZooMarine.

61 – Tour the mansion of the National Etruscan Museum of Villa Giulia

Discover 76 Fun & Unusual Things to Do in Rome, Italy

This beautiful 16th-century Renaissance palace and its lovely gardens would be worth visiting even if they didn’t have the most phenomenal exhibit on the Etruscans!

Visitors love the Sarcophagus of the Spouses where the lovers recline for all eternity along with pottery, art, funeral urns, jewelry, and sculptures — all of which combined bring the civilization alive.

62 – Explore the bustling Trajan’s Market

Discover 76 Fun & Unusual Things to Do in Rome, Italy

Once home to over 150 shops and apartments, Trajan’s earns the title of the oldest shopping mall in history.

With its original appearance basically intact, it’s easy for visitors to imagine the place bustling with vendors, fresh produce, and buyers looking to bargain!

Complete your visit at Museo dei Fori Imperiali which synthesizes past with present to give a unique glimpse of Rome.

63 – Listen to the buskers at Terrazza del Pincio

Discover 76 Fun & Unusual Things to Do in Rome, Italy

Next to Borghese Gardens, visit the Terrazza del Pincio and take some time one afternoon to listen to the talented buskers (don’t forget to throw them a coin or two!).

Then in the sunset, the marble starts to glow as you round off an amazing day around Rome with an equally wonderful sunset!

64 – Take your seat at Circus Maximus

Discover 76 Fun & Unusual Things to Do in Rome, Italy

Imagine 150,000 spectators cheering and jeering at the chariot races — that’s the wild atmosphere at Circus Maximus.

Take your seat where so many others have at the Circus Maximus, or feel like Ben Hur as you step out onto the track!

Nowadays, if you’re lucky, you can catch an opera here too — a much better spectacle than some darker events in its history.

65 – Shop till you drop at Galleria Alberto Sordi

Discover 76 Fun & Unusual Things to Do in Rome, Italy

Shopping bags at the ready!

This chic mall in Art Noveau style named after the actor Alberto Sordi in the center of Rome is the first stop for shopaholics!

The design of the building is almost as beautiful as the designer clothes you can pick up from retailers like Calvin Klein and Massimo Dutti.

66 – See all of Rome’s iconic squares and fountains

Discover 76 Fun & Unusual Things to Do in Rome, Italy

The squares and fountains are the city’s lifeblood, so whatever things you do in Rome will involve them!

Take a tour to discover the coolest ones, including a fountain shaped like a half-sunken ship and the Campo de’ Fiori which had a medieval market.

The squares are brimming with life and tales for you to hear!

67 – Go on a pilgrimage to Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore

Discover 76 Fun & Unusual Things to Do in Rome, Italy

The resting place of Bernini, whose architecture is found all over Rome, this is one of just 7 pilgrimage basilicas anywhere in the world!

It was built on a pagan temple where the Virgin Mary appeared to the Pope, bringing instructions to construct the basilica.

Its decor is varied but all beautiful, showing different artistic periods.

68 – See Van Gogh’s Gardner at the National Gallery of Modern and Contemporary Art

Discover 76 Fun & Unusual Things to Do in Rome, Italy

What do the names Cezanne, Van Gogh, Monet, and Jackson Pollock have in common?

Their works are among the 1,100 on display here! Visitors will find Italy’s biggest collection of 19th- and 20th-century art in the museum, sometimes referred to as ‘the teeth’ due to its intimidating columns!

69 – Admire the Spanish Steps

Discover 76 Fun & Unusual Things to Do in Rome, Italy

Grab some gelato and savor the flavor on the Spanish Steps!

One of the most famous set of stairs in the world, located between the Piazza di Spagna at the Piazza Trinità dei Monti, it’s an essential selfie spot.

With a beautiful view of the Trinità dei Monti church at the top of the stairs as well, it’s definitely worth climbing.

70 – Plan your escape at Mamertine Prison

Discover 76 Fun & Unusual Things to Do in Rome, Italy

If you think you’re too good to be behind bars, just remember even St Peter was held here in Rome’s oldest prison!

These cells have held saints, emperors, and kings condemned to their fates — hear the fascinating fables of how they got into trouble, how they were treated, and how St Peter escaped!

71 – Ride the K2 at Hydromania water park

Discover 76 Fun & Unusual Things to Do in Rome, Italy

Hydromania water park has something for everyone: water aerobics sessions, a jacuzzi pool and beach area to chill in the water, a restaurant, and waterslides of all kinds!

The pick for thrill-seekers is K2, where with two parallel slides, you and your mate can see each other one last time before a 3-second drop!

72 – Work on that tan on Ponza

Discover 76 Fun & Unusual Things to Do in Rome, Italy

Lose yourself on a day trip to the island of Ponza.

With multiple boat tours to choose from you can snorkel in crystal blue waters, whilst discovering the secrets and history of the island.

With lunch provided on the private boat to enjoy alongside the views, you won’t want to leave!

73 – Eat to your heart’s content in Testaccio

Discover 76 Fun & Unusual Things to Do in Rome, Italy

Food, glorious food!

We all know that Rome is the home to some of the greatest foods and the best way to experience and find the most-loved local establishments is through a local food tour.

Be guided through the streets of blue-collar Testaccio, the birthplace of Roman cuisine, tasting its rich history and authentic local treats.

74 – Watch the acrobatic divers show at Zoomarine Water Park

Discover 76 Fun & Unusual Things to Do in Rome, Italy

Get up close and personal with the animals with live shows featuring dolphins and sea lions; step into a green aviary at Parrots Forest, and strap in for adrenaline-pumping roller coasters and water slides.

A crowd favorite performance, visitors typically love the circus element at the acrobatic divers’ show!

It is a fun-filled adventure for all to enjoy!

75 – Gaze over Rome at Belvedere del Gianicolo

Discover 76 Fun & Unusual Things to Do in Rome, Italy

For one of the best photo opportunities to update your profile or post a jealousy-inducing selfie, make sure you stop by the Belvedere del Gianicolo!

Being on the second tallest hill in Rome has its perks, like spectacular panoramic views of the Eternal City.

Be sure to wear comfortable shoes as it is a bit of a hike!

76 – Eat at Michelin star restaurants

Discover 76 Fun & Unusual Things to Do in Rome, Italy

Molto benne! 23 Roman restaurants own at least one Michelin star — three of them belong to La Pergola, where the views are as delectable as the carbonara sauce!

There’s nothing funny going on at Il Pagliaccio (‘the Clown’), where the eight-dish set menu is a journey through the head chef’s career. Wherever you dine, just make sure to book ahead.

Thanks for reading through our collection of things to do in Rome!

If you have anything you believe could be added to the list, don’t hesitate to leave a comment below.

Happy travels!


Travel Notes
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