10 unmissable experiences in Rome

Ineke • 5 oct. 2023
Rome has enthralled travelers for centuries. From ancient artifacts to experiencing la dolce vita, there are so many incredible things to do in the eternal city. Our tip: when in Rome, do as the Romans do… Read more to find out how.
Explore Rome on a 2-hour walking tour and marvel at architecture that dates from the Roman Empire, through the Renaissance, and beyond.

1. Walk this way

One of the best things about Rome is that many of its sights are focused in small, easily walkable areas. On a guided walking tour you’ll see the top attractions in the city and learn about interesting architectural details. From the famous Spanish Steps to Piazza Navona, you’ll get bragging rights for visiting all the top spots in Rome. And don’t forget to toss a coin in the Trevi Fountain — this guarantees you’ll visit again.

When in Rome...ride around the ancient city streets on an iconic Vespa moped.

2. Scoot around town

Whizzing along Roman streets on a Vespa is a fantastic way to see the city. The best part? Aside from looking (and feeling) quintessentially Italian, you’re free to go where you want, when you want. If that’s not la dolce vita, we don’t know what is.

Skip the ticket lines while visiting Rome’s oldest monuments on a 3-hour guided tour.

3. Discover ancient Rome

The past comes to life on a tour of the Colosseum, Roman Forum and Palatine Hill. This 2,000-year-old amphitheater is one of Rome’s top attractions, and it’s easy to see why. Your guide will share gory stories of gladiator battles as you visit the Colosseum and see the arena where fights were held. Climb to the second tier and imagine being one of 50,000 spectators. Next, visit the Forum, where locals went about their daily life. As the final stop, head to the Palatine Hill. There, you’ll learn about the foundation of Rome and the myth of Romulus and Remus.

Learn how to fight like a Roman warrior in gladiator school.

4. Be a gladiator for a day

If all the tales about gladiators got your imagination going, why not be a gladiator for a morning? Kids of all ages love this experience. First, learn about gladiator weapons and techniques (and don’t forget to take pictures). Then, learn cool skills before you stage a mock fight. To arms!

Take a 3-hour tour of Ostia Antica and learn about ancient Rome.

5. Explore an archaeological site

If you can’t get enough of ancient history, Rome is the place to be. Visit Ostia Antica to see the archaeological site of a real Roman city and learn about daily life from your expert guide. Ostia was the port city of Rome, and you’ll see impressive mosaics and frescoes that are still preserved to this day. 

Immerse yourself in the Vatican's awe-inspiring art with no-wait access to the Sistine Chapel, Vatican Museums, St. Peter’s Basilica, and more.

6. Tour Vatican City

One of the most important Rome attractions is Vatican City. This country within a city is such a popular destination that over 5 million people visit each year. But don’t let the crowds stop you! Instead, opt for a skip-the-line ticket with no-wait access to Vatican City highlights. Your knowledgable guide will take a small group of visitors through the Sistine Chapel, Vatican Museums, St. Peter’s Basilica, and more. Not only will you learn the history behind the artwork and buildings, you’ll enjoy these sights at your own pace.

Descend into the chill of Rome’s mysterious underworld on the city’s longest-running crypts and catacombs tour.

7. Go underground

One of the eeriest places to visit in Rome is the catacombs and crypts: underground worlds filled with mystery and fascinating tales. See the Capuchin Crypt, where the bones of 4,000 Capuchin monks have been laid to rest. Then it’s on to the catacombs, secret tunnels where Christians practiced their faith 2,000 years ago.

Combine a guided walking tour of Rome with one of the best things to do there: tasting authentic Roman delicacies.

8. Say buon appetito!

Roaming around Rome is guaranteed to work up an appetite. Good thing you’re visiting the home of delicious cuisine. Taste street food favorites on a walking tour around vibey local neighborhoods. Feast on authentic pizza, suppli (rice balls), cured meats, and, of course, wine and beer. No food tasting is complete without gelato — end with a scoop of creamy ice cream.

Visit the Borghese Gallery and discover masterpieces of art inside the former Villa Borghese Pinciana.

9. Revel in the Renaissance

Art lovers will adore visiting the Borghese Gallery, home to many of the world’s most exquisite Renaissance paintings and sculptures. You can admire works by famous artists such as Bernini, Canova, Caravaggio, and Titian housed in this 17th-century villa. Afterward, explore the expansive Borghese gardens on foot or by bicycle.

Enjoy an immersive pizza experience near the Trevi Fountain.

10. Learn a delicious skill

You can’t leave Rome without learning how to make authentic pizza. Learn about ingredients and dough-tossing methods from your instructor before chowing down on your creation. Between seconds (and maybe thirds), we bet you’ll already be dreaming up your next trip to the Eternal City.