20 of the most fun things to do in Rome for a unique trip

You already know all about the great monuments, historical sites, and famous museums in Rome. Now it's time to go below the surface. We've searched the Eternal City for cool things to do in Rome, from gladiator classes to Vespa tours.
There are plenty of activities in Rome that are ideal for adventures with the whole family. Others can become the most romantic date of your life. Cook your own spaghetti, take unique tours, and see a different side of the Italian capital.

Fun things to do in Rome for couples

1. Travel like a local on a classic Vespa scooter

Ciao, bella. Put on your helmet and get ready to weave through the traffic on the back of a Vespa. This is one of the best dates in Rome. You'll feel like you're the stars of a classic Italian film as you zoom around town.

Highlights:

With Vespa rental in Rome, you can choose your own route. Check out the top sights, and be sure to stop for romantic photos along the way.

2. See the city by moonlight on a romantic walking tour

Rome by day is one thing, but Rome by night? That's when the city's romantic side comes out. Stroll hand in hand around the center, admiring the most beautiful sights all lit up.

Highlights:

Your professional tour guide will show you all the city's major monuments. Take your time to admire the Colosseum, which looks totally different lit up at night.

3. Enjoy an authentic Italian opera performance

For centuries, Italy has been famous for its stunning opera music. Now it's time to see it for yourself, with a stunning open-air performance on one of Rome's most exclusive terraces.

Highlights:

As you enjoy this private concert, you'll sip on a delicate aperitif. Admire the beautiful views to a soundtrack of Verdi and Rossini.

Address and opening hours:

Sant'Agnese in Agone, Via di Santia Maria dell'Anima 30A, 00186 Rome. Open Tuesday-Sunday, 9:00 AM-12:30 PM and 3:30-7:00 PM. Closed Mondays.

4. Escape from the city and cool down on the lake

Ready for a romantic getaway? Get out of the city with a trip to Castel Gandolfo. You'll see this beautiful town from a new point of view as you kayak around the lake.

Highlights:

Your day trip from Rome lets you admire the gorgeous town of Castel Gandolfo, where the Pope spends his summers. You can even cool off by swimming in the lake.

5. Throw a coin or two into the Trevi Fountain

The Trevi Fountain may just be the most famous fountain in the world. You and your partner just have to stop here for a photo while you're in the city. What could be more romantic?

Highlights:

Be careful when tossing your change into the Trevi Fountain. Local legend dictates you have to plan the number of coins you throw, depending on your wish. One coin means you'll return to Rome, while three means marriage. Don't throw two if you're on a romantic break, as that means you're wishing for a new love.

Address and opening hours:

Piazza di Trevi, 00187 Rome. Open 24 hours per day, every day.

Fun things to do in Rome with kids

6. Prepare for the Colosseum with a trip to gladiator school

Learn to be an authentic gladiator with this unique class. You'll put on your official gladiatorial tunic and learn the art of swordplay. It's great fun for both kids and grown-ups.

Highlights:

At the end of this gladiator class, you'll get your official certificate to prove that you're ready for the Colosseum.

Address and opening hours:

Via Appia Antica 18, 00179 Rome. Open Monday-Sunday, 9:30 AM-7:00 PM.

7. Take a trip inside the brilliant mind of Leonardo da Vinci

Discover the hidden world of Italy's most famous genius. Join the kids for a Leonardo da Vinci-inspired treasure hunt across Rome, solving puzzles along the way.

Highlights:

This family-friendly tour will keep the kids interested as they solve the clues. If you solve the final riddle, you'll even get a special prize.

8. Get your pulse racing with a VR chariot race

Ancient Rome is fascinating for kids. Now they can live it for themselves with a VR chariot race. Who will win this heart-thumping contest?

Highlights:

When you arrive at the Circus Maximus for this interactive event, you'll be given VR headsets. Stroll through the streets of Ancient Rome and explore it for yourselves.

Address and opening hours:

Viale Aventino, 00186 Rome. Open Tuesday-Sunday, 10:00 AM-2:50 PM.

9. Treat yourselves to a sunset gelato

Even the fussiest kids will love the local food in Rome. On this special experience, you'll have the chance to nibble on authentic pizza and gelato as you explore the city's most famous sites.

Highlights:

This evening tour of Rome is specifically designed for families. That means you'll enjoy delicious kid-friendly food, as well as puzzles, games, quizzes, and more along the way.

10. Make feline friends at the cat sanctuary

Rome's cat sanctuary is a great place for pet-loving kids to spend an hour. These friendly felines just adore company, so come and say hello.

Highlights:

This is a cat sanctuary like nothing you've seen before, set around the ancient ruins of the Torre Argentina. In fact, you'll be just a few steps away from the spot of Caesar's assassination.

Address and opening hours:

Largo di Torre Argentina, 00186 Rome. Open Monday-Sunday, 12:00 PM-4:30 PM.

Fun things to do in Rome on your own

11. Send a shiver down your spine with a creepy ghost tour

With over 2,000 years of history, Rome has hundreds of ghost stories. Learn the most interesting ones with a spooky ghost tour. You may need to sleep with the light on afterward.

Highlights:

A ghost tour with a professional guide will show you an entirely different side of the city. Discover hidden alleyways and tiny streets that most visitors never get to see.

12. Go underground to discover the secrets of the early Christians

You've already seen Rome's most famous religious monuments. Now it's time to see something entirely new with the underground temple hidden 14 meters beneath St Clement's Basilica.

Highlights:

This underground temple has some beautiful frescoes showing the earliest martyrs. A live guide will explain how the site went from a pagan temple to a Christian church.

Address and opening hours:

Via Labicana, 95, 00184 Rome. Open Monday-Saturday, 10:00 AM-12:00 PM and 3:00 PM-5:00 PM.

13. Give yourself nightmares at the Capuchin Crypt

One of the darkest places to visit in Rome, the Capuchin Crypt is not for the faint-hearted. Also known as the Bone Chapel, this underground site is lined with the skulls and bones of Capuchin monks.

Highlights:

A guided tour is one of the best ways to see the crypt. You'll learn the story of these monks and discover how this creepy crypt came to be.

Address and opening hours:

Via Vittorio Veneto 27, 00187 Rome. Open Monday-Sunday, 10:00 AM-7:00 PM.

14. Check out the quirky side of town with a trip to Trastevere

Yes, there's more to Rome than big monuments and ancient history. The bohemian neighborhood of Trastevere has a unique, laid-back vibe. Take a walk through the streets, admiring the colorful street art and listening to the buskers.

Highlights:

Visit on a Sunday and take a trip to the Porta Portese Market, where you can find anything from the latest fashion to beautiful antiques.

15. Watch an outdoor film on the Isola Taberina

The Isola Taberina, an island on the River Tiber, is transformed into an outdoor cinema in the summer months. You can see the best Italian films in the evenings. There are also markets, bars, and more.

Highlights:

On your way to the summer film festival, pause on the bridge to admire the views across the river. They're truly stunning.

Fun things to do in Rome if you like food and drinks

16. Learn to make pasta from scratch

Cook like a true Italian nonna at a pasta-making class. Roll up your sleeves and prepare to get stuck in. When you go home, you'll be able to impress all your friends with your authentic pasta skills.

Highlights:

At this pasta-making class, you've got an added bonus. You'll also learn to make some amazing tiramisu for dessert.

Address and opening hours:

Via Cesare Balbo, 19, 00184 Rome. Variable opening hours.

17. Have a true Roman dining experience at a local's house

Italian home cooking is famous all over the world. Forget the restaurant and head to a local's house for an authentic four-course meal you'll never forget.

Highlights:

You can dine with a local family at lunch or dinner time. Either way, you're in for a treat as you experience the best of Italian hospitality.

18. Dine with wine in an incredible medieval cellar

Want to improve your sommelier skills? Take this special tour to a 12th-century cellar. You'll learn more about how wine is made, and of course, you'll have plenty of chances to sample the local vintage.

Highlights:

Your sommelier guide will lead you through a complete tasting session, with locally sourced dishes to pair with each wine.

19. Enjoy the best local dishes on a foodie tour

After you've worked up an appetite with a day of sightseeing, it's time to indulge. Take a foodie tour of the trendy Trastevere neighborhood, where you'll enjoy Prosecco, cocktails, and a range of local dishes.

Highlights:

An expert guide will accompany you on this guided tour, helping you pick out the best dishes. You'll be able to enjoy a night out in authentic Roman style.

20. Eat the freshest produce at the city's markets

The Mercato Trionfale, inside Vatican City, has some of the best food in town. Navigate its stalls with the help of a local foodie and sample the delicacies on offer.

Highlights:

When you've finished exploring the market, your guide will take you to a cooking class where you'll learn to whip up one of Rome's most famous dishes, the classic spaghetti carbonara.

FAQs

What are some fun things to do in Rome at night?

At night, you can take a gourmet tour to see the best of Rome's food and drink scene. It's also worth just strolling around the city center and seeing the famous monuments all lit up. They look completely different after the sun has set. If you want to do something unique and creepy, try a visit to the Bone Chapel after dark and wander past the walls lined with bones.

Are there any fun day trips from Rome that I should consider?

Yes. You can take a day trip to Castel Gandolfo for fun on the lake. Rome is conveniently located right in the center of Italy, so you can take plenty of other trips. Try the Amalfi Coast for a seaside getaway or Pompeii to immerse yourself in history.

What are some popular festivals or events in Rome?

You'll find a number of festivals of all kinds in the summer months in Rome. Another highlight of the annual calendar is Carnevale, which usually takes place at some point between February and March. Locals dress up in fun costumes, and there are concerts and shows, as well as a large ice rink set up. If you visit on April 21, you can join in the fun of Rome's annual birthday celebration. This festival has an ancient Roman theme, complete with gladiator combat.

What are some family-friendly things to do in Rome?

Try a walking tour that is specifically planned for families, complete with games and puzzles. Rome is also an ideal city for budding young foodies, as the local dishes like pizza and pasta will please even picky eaters. You can also try ancient Rome-inspired activities like gladiator classes or shows, which are sure to inspire young minds.

What are some fun outdoor activities to do in Rome?

Many of Rome's most famous monuments are ruins, so you'll be outdoors as you wander through them. Open-air markets are also extremely popular in Rome. The most famous is the Porta Portese Market, which takes place on Sunday mornings.