12 fun things to do in Rome when it rains

Rain in Italy’s capital city can transform your experience of the Eternal City. Instead of strolling through sunlit piazzas, you’re now given an opportunity in disguise to explore some of the best things to do in Rome indoors. This guide unveils the 12 best things to do in Rome when it rains. From world-class museums like the Vatican Museums brimming with art to cozy cafes for a well-deserved rest, there are many ways to experience the city’s charm even when it’s pouring. Here’s how to make your rainy day bellissimo.

1. Vatican Museums

Rainy days are ideal for exploring the Vatican Museums, one of the best museums in Rome. Home to some of the world’s most famous artworks, they are a haven for everyone, not just history buffs or art lovers.

Highlights

Don't miss the Sistine Chapel, with Michelangelo’s breathtaking ceiling. The intricate tapestries and ancient sculptures are also must-sees.

Address and opening hours:

Viale Vaticano, 00165 Rome. Open Monday-Saturday, 9:00 AM-6:00 PM (final entry 4:00 PM); last Sunday of each month, 9:00 AM-2:00 PM (final entry 12:30 PM).

2. Historic cafes

Experience Rome’s coffee culture in its historic cafes. Perfect for a rainy day, these spots offer a warm refuge and a taste of local life.

Insider tip

Visit Sant'Eustachio Il Caffè for a quintessential Roman espresso. The aroma of freshly ground beans and the clatter of cups create an unforgettable atmosphere.

Address and opening hours:

Piazza di S. Eustachio, 82, 00186 Rome. Open Monday-Friday, 7:30 AM-12:00 AM; Saturday 7:30 AM-1:00 AM; Sunday 7:30 AM-8:00 PM.

3. Capitoline Museums

The Capitoline Museums house a vast collection of art and archaeological treasures. It's a journey through Rome’s rich history.

Highlights

The statue of Marcus Aurelius and the ruins of ancient temples are treasures of the ancient world and absolute must-sees. Additionally, the museums’ terraces offer a unique view of the Roman Forum.

Address and opening hours:

Piazza del Campidoglio, 1, 00186 Rome. Open daily, 9:30 AM-7:30 PM.

4. Rome’s bookshops

Rome’s bookshops are a great option for book lovers on rainy days. From ancient texts to modern novels, they offer a cozy escape from the rain.

Insider tip

The Almost Corner Bookshop in Trastevere is known for its collection of English books. It’s a perfect spot to find your next read.

Address and opening hours:

Via del Moro, 45, 00153 Roma RM, Italy. Open daily, 12:00 PM-7:00 PM.

5. Teatro dell’Opera

Experience an evening at Teatro dell’Opera. This historic venue hosts world-class operas and ballets, ideal for a cultured rainy evening.

Best time to visit

Check their schedule for current shows. The opulent interior and stunning performances make for a memorable evening.

Address:

Piazza Beniamino Gigli, 00184 Rome.

6. Galleria Borghese

Galleria Borghese is a jewel of art and nature. Its collection includes works by Caravaggio, Bernini, and Titian.

Highlights

Bernini’s sculptures and Caravaggio’s paintings are not to be missed. The surrounding park is also beautiful, even in the rain.

Address and opening hours:

Piazzale Scipione Borghese, 5, 00197 Rome. Open Tuesday and Friday-Sunday, 9:00 AM-7:00 PM; Wednesday, 9:00 AM-10:00 PM; Thursday, 9:00 AM-9:00 PM.

7. Roman culinary class

Join a cooking class and learn to make authentic Roman dishes. It’s a fun and delicious way to spend a rainy day.

Insider tip

From pasta making to gelato crafting, these classes immerse you in Italian cuisine and give you an insider view of authentic Italian culture. Plus, you get to enjoy your tasty creations and discover some of the best things to eat in Rome.

8. Palazzo Altemps

Palazzo Altemps, part of the National Roman Museum, is a hidden gem in Rome full of ancient sculptures and Renaissance art. It’s a peaceful retreat on a wet day.

Highlights

The Ludovisi Battle Sarcophagus is a standout piece. The courtyard and its sculptures offer a serene escape from the city bustle.

Address and opening hours:

Piazza di Sant'Apollinare, 46, 00186 Rome. Open Tuesday-Sunday, 9:30 AM-7:00 PM.

9. Doria Pamphilj Gallery

Escape the rain and step into the opulent world of the Doria Pamphilj Gallery, nestled in a grand palazzo. This Baroque masterpiece is a feast for art lovers.

Highlights

The gallery boasts works by Raphael, Caravaggio, and Velázquez. The audio guide, often narrated by a Pamphilj family member, enriches the experience, offering personal stories behind the stunning collection and the lavish rooms.

Address and opening hours:

Via del Corso, 305, 00186 Rome. Open Tuesday-Thursday and Sunday, 9:00 AM-7:00 PM; Friday and Saturday, 10:00 AM-8:00 PM.

10. Trastevere

The narrow streets of the Trastevere neighborhood are lined with quaint cafes and trattorias. It’s the perfect neighborhood to relax and watch the rain.

Highlights

Enjoy traditional Roman fare or a glass of wine in this charming district. The atmosphere is especially cozy on rainy days.

11. MAXXI: Contemporary art fix

MAXXI, the National Museum of 21st Century Arts, showcases modern art and architecture. It’s an amazing spot for contemporary art enthusiasts.

Highlights

The building itself is a modern architectural marvel. Inside, the rotating exhibitions are always cutting-edge and thought-provoking.

Address and opening hours:

Via Guido Reni, 4a, 00196 Roma RM, Italy. Open Monday, 11:00 AM-8:00 PM; Tuesday-Saturday, 11:00 AM-7:00 PM; Sunday, 11:00 AM-4:00 PM.

12. Santa Maria Maggiore Basilica in Trastevere

Rome is home to over 900 churches, making it the city with the most churches in the world. You can’t go wrong with a day of church-hopping. That being said, be sure to pay a visit to the beautiful Santa Maria Maggiore Basilica in Trastevere. Its mosaics and artworks are a treat for art and history buffs.

Highlights

The apse's 12th-century mosaics are stunning. The atmosphere inside is serene, perfect for contemplative moments on a rainy day.

Address and opening hours:

Piazza di Santa Maria in Trastevere, 00153 Rome. Open Monday-Friday, 7:30 AM-8:30 PM; Saturday and Sunday, 7:30 AM-8:00 PM.

FAQs

What are some lesser-known indoor attractions in Rome for a rainy day?

Rome is filled with hidden indoor gems. The Palazzo Massimo alle Terme, part of the National Roman Museum, showcases stunning ancient Roman art and artifacts. Another lesser-known site is the Centrale Montemartini, where classical statues are displayed against the backdrop of a former power plant. For a unique experience, visit the Crypta Balbi, which reveals layers of Roman history through its archaeological excavations

Are there any indoor historical sites in Rome suitable for exploring on rainy days?

The Pantheon, with its massive dome and oculus, is a marvel of ancient architecture and remains largely dry inside, even during rain. The Baths of Diocletian, now partly a museum, offer a fascinating glimpse into ancient Roman life. Additionally, the Church of San Clemente provides a journey through time with its underground layers dating back to the 1st century.

What are the best indoor markets or shopping areas in Rome for a rainy day?

For an indoor shopping experience, head to Galleria Alberto Sordi, a beautiful, historic shopping gallery with a variety of shops and cafes. One of Rome’s best markets, Mercato Centrale Roma, located in Termini Station, offers a range of food stalls and artisan products, perfect for exploring indoors

What are the best rainy day activities in Rome for kids?

The Explora Children’s Museum is an excellent choice for kids, offering interactive exhibits designed to educate and entertain. The Time Elevator Rome is a 5D experience that takes visitors on a journey through the history of Rome, which is both fun and educational for children.

Are there any special rainy-day tours or experiences offered in Rome?

Some tour operators offer special rainy day itineraries, which might include visits to lesser-known museums or historical sites with covered or indoor areas. You might even consider a day trip from Rome to one of the highlights near the city, such as Pompeii, Hadrian’s Villa, or Castel Gandolfo, the Pope’s country retreat.