8 things to do outdoors in Rome when it’s sunny

Rome is the perfect destination for people who love to get outside to explore cultural landmarks, nature, and stunning architecture. The city’s balmy Mediterranean climate lets visitors enjoy outdoor adventures year-round. Plus, Rome gets over 270 sunny days per year — so you won’t have to worry about gloomy weather putting a damper on your vacation plans.

Roam the awe-inspiring ruins of Palatine Hill and the Roman Forum, enjoy a leisurely paddle at Lake Bracciano, or wander among the surreal statues at the Park of the Monsters. Whether you’re a fitness buff or a history lover, you’ll find plenty of outdoor activities in Rome to immerse yourself in.

1. Explore the ancient architecture of the Colosseum

The Colosseum is one of Rome’s most iconic monuments. Explore the expansive grounds, from the stunning amphitheater to the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill. On the second floor, the Colosseum Museum showcases artifacts from different periods of the monument’s nearly two thousand years of history.

Highlights

• Search for ancient graffiti on the first level of the Colosseum
• Roam Palatine Hill, an open-air museum filled with gardens, monuments, and the ruins of several emperors' residencies
• Get a stunning exterior view of the Colosseum as you wander the ancient ruins of the Roman Forum

Address and opening hours

Piazza del Colosseo, 1, 00184 Roma RM. Open 8:30 AM to 6:30 PM.

2. Stroll through the lush Gardens of Vatican City

A visit to the gorgeous Vatican Gardens is one of the best things to do in Rome when it's sunny. Originally built in 1279, these gardens feature beautiful flowers, forests, monuments, and artwork.

Highlights

• Discover fascinating caves and temples in the English garden
• Take a magical carriage ride through the gardens
• View a portion of the Berlin Wall, gifted to the Vatican in 1994

Address and opening hours

WC2X+RG, Via Paolo VI, 29, 00120 Città del Vaticano, Vatican City. Open Monday–Saturday, 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM; closed on Sundays.

3. Discover Rome’s best wineries

The rolling hills surrounding Rome are home to some of Italy’s top wineries. Enjoy a delicious lunch, tour the lush vineyards near Rome, and learn about the region’s rich agricultural history.

Highlights

• The picturesque town of Frascati is home to an ancient wine farm — enjoy a traditional Italian lunch and sample wine at the family farmhouse
• Take a guided day trip to Tuscany for a delicious three-course lunch in the cellar of the winery that invented Brunello di Montalcino, an iconic Italian wine

4. Soak up a refreshing breeze at Lake Bracciano

Lake Bracciano is a gorgeous volcanic lake that attracts beach lovers and water sports fans. The crystal clear water is perfect for kayaking, boating trips, and swimming. If you prefer to explore on land, a leisurely e-bike tour along the banks of the lake is one of the most relaxing things to do in Rome when it’s sunny.

Highlights

• Enjoy stunning lake views from the front lawn of Odescalchi Castle, an ancient Renaissance mansion
• During the summer, a ferry carries visitors across the lake to charming villages, including Anguillara Sabazia and Trevignano Romano
• Eat a delicious seafood lunch on the water at Ristorante Alfredo da Persichella, located at a historic hotel

Address

Lake Bracciano, Province of Rome.

5. Explore the monuments of Villa Borghese

The sprawling gardens of Villa Borghese offer many things to do in Rome on sunny days. This beautiful park is home to the Borghese Gallery, the Rome Zoo, playgrounds, coffee shops, and carousels. And, of course, you can enjoy plenty of natural features, from colorful gardens to scenic ponds.

Highlights

• Catch panoramic views of Rome from the Pincio Terrace — one of the city's most romantic spots, especially at sunset
• Get your steps in as you follow the garden’s meandering, three-mile-long pathway
• Tell the time at the Pincio water clock, a unique water-powered clock

Address and opening hours

Piazzale Napoleone I, 00197 Rome. Open daily from dawn to dusk.

6. Take a thrilling raft ride on the Tiber River

See Rome from a fresh perspective as you embark on an adrenaline-pumping urban rafting tour along the Tiber River. This waterway travels through the heart of Rome and passes by many iconic historic sites, including Ponte Palatine and Torre della Pulzella on Tiber Island.

Highlights

• Gliding under Ponte Sant’Angelo, a nearly two-thousand-year-old bridge to Castel Sant’Angelo
• A guided tour of Tiber Island and the visually striking Romanesque Church of San Bartolomeo
• Test your mettle and paddling skills as you navigate real rapids at Ponte Garibaldi

Address

Tours meet at the Porta del Popolo at Piazzale Flaminio, 00187 Rome.

7. Take a leisurely bike ride or a swordsmanship class at Appian Way Regional Park

The Appian Way Regional Park features over 3,000 hectares of ancient Roman ruins, roads, and catacombs. Exploring this vibrant park by bike is one of the best outdoor activities in Rome.

Highlights

• Venture underground for a guided tour of the catacombs and Capuchin Crypt
• Refuel by dining at the Appia Antica Caffè, which overlooks the lush gardens
• Learn ancient swordsmanship techniques by taking a gladiator class

Address and opening hours

Via Appia Antica, 42, 00178 Rome. Open 24/7.

8. Stroll through the Park of the Monsters

Fantasy lovers can immerse themselves in a new world at the Park of the Monsters, also known as the Sacro Bosco di Bomarzo. Built in the sixteenth century, the park features dozens of enormous statues of magical creatures, along with a few familiar animals like elephants and lions.

Highlights

• Visit the Temple of Eternity, a memorial to the artist’s wife
• Snap an Instagram-worthy photo inside the mouth of Orcus, a god of the underworld

Address and opening hours

Località Giardino, 01020 Bomarzo VT. Open 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM daily.

FAQs

1. Is there nature in Rome?

Whether you’re an avid hiker or a casual nature lover, you’ll find plenty of serene things to do outdoors in Rome. The city has several parks, including the Appian Way Regional Park and the Park of the Monsters, where you can spot wildlife.

2. What is the sunniest month in Rome?

June, July, and August are typically the sunniest months in the city. During summer in Rome, you can take full advantage of the warm weather by visiting nearby lakes and exploring the countless historic monuments.

3. Is there a beach near Rome?

Taking a trip to the beach is one of the most popular things to do outside in Rome. Ostia Beach is only 25 minutes away from the city and has cool, easy-to-access water. Other local favorites include Santa Marinella, Fregene Beach, and the breathtaking Sperlonga Beach.

4. Can you sunbathe in Rome?

Yes, sunbathing is one of the most popular sunny day activities in Rome. You can spot locals and tourists soaking up the rays on Tiber Island or at the nearby Ostia Beach.

5. What can I do on a hot day in Rome?

While Rome typically has a mild climate, the city can get downright sweltering at the peak of summer. Luckily, there are plenty of things to do outside in Rome to escape the heat. Consider touring Roman churches like Sant’Ignazio and Santa Maria del Popolo, which tend to stay cool thanks to their stone exteriors. You can also venture out to Castel Gandolfo to catch the cool breezes of Lake Albano.