Rome is one of the most culturally significant cities in the world. Referred to as the capital of the world, Rome has earned the title of “the eternal city.” Its streets comprise of ruins that are as old as two and a half millenniums.
There are so many things to do in Rome, Italy that a typical 3 days to a one-week trip will not be enough.
10 of the Best Things to Do in Rome, Italy
Very few cities compare to Rome, in that it has managed to preserve its two and a half millennia history so well that visitors and residents can walk amongst the ruins of what was once the Roman Empire. Follow these tips as you prepare to take a trip to Rome.
Its history is part of the popular Rome experience but there is more to Rome than just its archaeology. There is art, food, religion and the hipness of Rome. Some of the top things to do Rome are:
1. Visit the Colosseum
Originally referred to as the Flavian Amphitheater, Emperor Vespasian commissioned it in AD72, even though his son Titus completed it in AD 80. It sits on with 80 arched entrances that would allow easy access to approximately 55,000 spectators, with each of these spectators seated according to rank.
The Colosseum served as an arena where gladiators, mostly men, and a few female gladiators, fought, in succession. This practice when on for more than three centuries only to stop when Christianity put an end to large public entertainments and gladiatorial combats.
Since then, it has become one of the leading tourist attractions in Italy. The amphitheatre has recently received a full renovation and restoration and a new museum opened on the second floor. Visit the Colosseum and marvel at what was once an arena for gladiators.
2. Visit the Palatine Hill
Many visitors often overlook Palatine Hill as it’s overshadowed by the Colosseum which is its next-door neighbour. A visit to Rome is incomplete without exploring this majestic hill. They tower over the ruins of the Circus Maximus, the Roman Forum, and ruins of ancient palaces. Palatine Hill sits at the centre of “the legend of Romulus and Remus,” which was Rome’s most important myth.
It’s a good place to set up a picnic or watch as the sun sets.
3. Eat Roman Food
Italians boast of their exquisite culinary skills and the Italian cuisine is irresistible. Other than its history, Italy also has amazing food and naturally, you want to have a taste of Italian cuisine while in Rome. Try out some of these dishes:
i. Bucatini all’ Amatriciana- it’s the most popular Roman dish
ii. Coda AllaVaccinara
iii. Pasta Allagricia
iv. Roman-style pizza
4. View Paintings Free in Rome’s Churches
There something about viewing a piece of art in the location it originally intended. Rome Churches contain some of the most iconic works of art and they can be viewed free of charge. You get to view iconic art by artists such as Michelangelo Merisi da Caravaggio.
His art pieces are displayed free of charge in the church of San Luigi deiFrancesi and the church of Santa Maria del Popolo. In these churches, you will find captivating pieces like the Madonna di Loreto and The Martyrdom of St. Matthew.
5. Visit the Pantheon
This is one of the top things to see in Rome and it’s free to enter. The Pantheon is among the most magnificent buildings in Rome. It was built by Emperor Mandarin from 118 AD to 125 AD and its amazing architectural design makes it a must visit.
Preferably, visit during the morning hours as it’s less crowded. Afterwards, head to the Trevi Fountain, which is less than ten minutes from the Pantheon
6. Visit the Vatican Museums
The Vatican Museums is home to some of the world’s most iconic art collection. You have to pay an entrance fee except for last Sunday of the month. It’s home to Renaissance paintings, Egyptian relics, Greek and Roman sculptures and Etruscan artifacts.
If you are visiting on a weekday, it’s advisable that you book your tickets online to hassle of waiting in line for hours.
7. Visit the St. Peter’s Basilica
The Constantine commissioned it in 324 AD as a dedication to the Apostle Peter. It’s said that the cathedral was built on the tomb of St. Peter. The St. Peter’s Basilica is one of four major basilicas in the entire world, all of which are in Rome.
It covers 22,300 square meters, which makes it one of the largest churches in the world. This is however not the original church as it was destroyed due to serious degradation over 1000 years. It took 120 years and all the greatest architects that Roman Renaissance had to offer to rebuild it to what it is today.
Visits to the Basilica are free but to see sights such as the Vatican Necropolis and the Cupola you have to pay a small fee.
8. Visit the Vatican City
You can sum up your visit by visiting the smallest state in the world. The Vatican City, which is a country within Rome, covers about 100 acres. It prints its own euros, issues its own passports, has its own stamps, operates media outlets, and has a national anthem and a flag.
The only government function it does not carry out is taxation.
Be sure to purchase your tickets early as the ticket lines are very usually very long and you could end up waiting for hours.
9. Visit the Villa Borghese Park
The Villa Borghese Park is not only the most popular park in Rome but it is also home to world-class museums and historical buildings. While here, you can go to the Galleria Borghese or rent bikes for a few hours. You can also enjoy a picnic along the banks of the lake.
10. Campo De’Fiori Market
Wind up your trip by taking a stroll in this open-air market. Here, you get to enjoy authentic Italian culture. In addition, you get to buy fresh produce ranging from fruits and vegetables to fish, cheese, and meat. There is a flower market just nearby.
Things to do in Rome, Italy on a Tight Budget
While in Rome, be sure to bring back souvenirs for your family and friends. If you are working with a tight budget, you can always buy simple souvenirs like fridge magnets or key chains.
You can also buy Authentic Italian object such as ceramics, wines, shoes, etc. as you go about your list of things to do in Rome, Italy.
