dwdypt
- Jun 28
- 8 min read

Roaming Through Rome: Best Things to Do in Rome

Updated: Aug 9

Discover the Best of Rome: Top Activities for an Unforgettable Visit

Have you ever placed “Discovering Rome: Top activities” on your bucket list of unforgettable places to visit?

Welcome to Rome, the Eternal City, whether you are a solo traveller, on a romantic getaway or on a family city break. You won’t regret wandering in the city where history comes alive with every step you take. From ancient ruins and grandiose monuments to vibrant neighbourhoods and world-renowned cuisine, Rome is a city that captivates the heart and soul of every traveller. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, an art lover, or simply someone looking to immerse yourself in the rich culture of Italy, Rome offers an endless array of activities that promise to make your visit unforgettable.

In this blog post, we’ll take you on a journey through the top activities that you simply can’t miss when in Rome. From exploring iconic landmarks like the Colosseum and the Vatican to discovering hidden gems tucked away in cobblestone streets, we’ll guide you through the best experiences this magnificent city has to offer. So, lace up your walking shoes, grab a scoop of gelato, and let’s dive into the wonders of Rome!

This site contains affiliate links. If you click through the links on this page and make a purchase, we may earn a small commission. As an affiliate member of Stay22, TravelPayout and a few other travel brands, we earn from qualifying purchases. Thank you for supporting Melanin Travels Magic Blog. [Learn More]

__________________________________________________________________________________

1. Discovering the Grandeur of St. Peter's Basilica: A Journey Through Time and Faith

Welcome to St. Peter's Basilica in Vatican City, a symbol of faith, art, and history. This iconic church, built over the burial site of St. Peter, combines architectural brilliance and spiritual significance. The vast nave leads to Bernini's baldachin over St. Peter's tomb, and Michelangelo’s Pietà is a must-see.

Climbing Michelangelo’s dome, one of the largest in the world, offers breathtaking views of Vatican City and Rome. Beneath the basilica, the Vatican Grottoes and Necropolis reveal fascinating historical layers, including the believed tomb of St. Peter.

St. Peter’s Square, designed by Bernini, is surrounded by grand colonnades and features an Egyptian obelisk, serving as a gathering place for pilgrims and visitors. To make the most of your visit, go early or late to avoid crowds, dress modestly, and remember that while entry to the basilica is free, there is a fee for climbing the dome.

St. Peter’s Basilica, with its architectural splendour and spiritual depth, is a living museum of art and history, making it a highlight of any trip to Rome. Don’t miss the chance to experience its timeless beauty.

Why not checking which hotel will match your next Stay in Rome?

2. Become a Gladiator: Explore Rome’s Famous Colosseum

Welcome to the Roman Colosseum, an iconic symbol of ancient Rome. Built between 70-80 AD, this monumental amphitheatre could hold up to 50,000 spectators and hosted gladiatorial contests, animal hunts, and public spectacles.

Despite damage from earthquakes and stone robbers, the Colosseum remains a testament to Roman engineering and architecture. Inside, you can explore the underground hypogeum, revealing the complex network of tunnels where fighters and animals awaited their fate.

To make the most of your visit, arrive early to avoid crowds and consider a night tour for a unique experience. Purchase tickets in advance, which often includes access to the nearby Roman Forum and Palatine Hill. Wear comfortable shoes as there’s a lot of walking and uneven surfaces.

The Colosseum is more than a historical site; it’s a journey back in time to ancient Rome's heart. Its enduring presence and rich history make it a must-see on any Roman itinerary. Don’t miss the chance to explore this iconic monument and experience a piece of history.

3. Discovering the Roman Forum: A Window into Ancient Rome

Welcome to the Roman Forum, the bustling heart of ancient Rome's political, religious, and commercial life. This sprawling archaeological site, nestled between the Palatine and Capitoline Hills, offers a captivating glimpse into the city's rich history.

As you wander through its ruins, imagine the bustling markets, political debates, and religious ceremonies that once animated this vibrant centre.

The Forum is home to iconic landmarks such as the Temple of Saturn, the Arch of Septimius Severus, and the House of the Vestal Virgins. Each structure tells a story of Rome's rise to power and its enduring influence on Western civilisation.

For an immersive experience, consider a guided tour to unravel the Forum's layers of history and gain deeper insights into its significance.

Visiting early in the morning or late afternoon ensures a quieter atmosphere, allowing you to soak in the atmosphere and appreciate the Forum's timeless allure. Don't miss this opportunity to step back in time and explore the heart of ancient Rome at the captivating Roman Forum.

4. Unveiling the Palatine Hill: Cradle of Roman Civilization

Welcome to Palatine Hill, where Rome's legendary origins and imperial grandeur converge. As the legendary birthplace of Rome, this ancient hilltop offers panoramic views of the city and insights into its rich history. Stroll through sprawling ruins that once housed emperors, aristocrats, and temples dedicated to Rome’s earliest gods.

The Palatine Hill is a treasure trove of archaeological wonders, including the Flavian Palace and the Stadium of Domitian. Explore at your own pace or join a guided tour to uncover stories of imperial splendour and daily life in ancient Rome.

For a serene experience, visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the tranquil beauty of this historic site. Whether you're a history enthusiast or simply seeking breathtaking views, the Palatine Hill promises a memorable journey into the heart of Roman civilization.

Are you ready to book your next weekend getaway flight to Rome? We got you!

5. Indulging in Gelato: A Taste of Rome's Sweetest Delight

Welcome to Rome, where gelato is more than just ice cream— it's a cultural experience. Made with fresh, natural ingredients and less air than traditional ice cream, gelato boasts a dense, rich texture bursting with authentic flavours.

Whether you're savouring classic favourites like pistachio and stracciatella or exploring inventive combinations such as fig and ricotta or lavender and white peach, each gelateria offers a unique palette of tastes to discover.

Finding the Best Gelato

Navigating Rome's gelateria is a delicious adventure. Seek out renowned spots like Giolitti near the Pantheon or Gelateria del Teatro near Campo del Fiori, celebrated for their artisanal craftsmanship and mouth-watering flavours.

Don't hesitate to explore quieter neighbourhoods, where hidden gems often surprise you with exceptional quality and personalized service. Whether you're in bustling city squares or tranquil cobblestone alleys, indulging in gelato is the perfect way to immerse yourself in Rome's culinary delights.

Have we inspired you to Discover the Best of Rome for your next weekend away? If you need accommodation while planning your next city getaway, look no further.

* BONUS *

Best Flight deals for your Next European Trip:

Why not look for a great flight deals now for your next trip to Rome?

If you don't know where to start you can always reach out for a Eurotrip Flight & Hotels packages.

Request a Flight & Hotel Package

BEST VAT Refunds APP for All EU countries

We personally use it since 2021 on all our purchses over 100 EUR , whenever we visit Paris. Use our Code Zapptax referal code REF85QK2 and get an extra 5 EUR on your VAT refund claim.

They are now available & valid across all EU countries.

The ZappTax app is available on the App Store and Google Play.

BEST ESIMS for your Eurotrip/ European Shopping Travel:

Avoid expensive roaming fees, use our AIRALO PROMOCODES and keep your coins to make the most of your upcoming trip to Jamaica.

Fancy staying in touch with your loved one while travelling? Why not get an Airalo E-sim card and save on those expensive roaming fees? Story of my life, my first time in Japan, I was lost in Tokyo and had turned back on Mobile data for 10 mn to use Google Maps and find my way back to the nearest metro station.

I was horrified when I was back in London and got an extra £90 charge for this emergency connection in Japan! Be wiser than me, use an Esim service as soon as you land at the airport and turn off your Mobile data and Roaming option on your device then.

Type our Promo code NEWTOAIRALO15 to get 15% Discount of your next purchase as a new customer!

Type our Promo code AIRALOESIM10 to get 10% Discount of your next purchase as an existing customer!

__________________________________________________________________________________

Roman Transportation

Getting around Rome is an adventure, thanks to the city's efficient and diverse transportation options. The metro is one of the fastest ways to navigate the city, with Line A and Line B intersecting at Termini Station, allowing you to easily reach major attractions like the Colosseum, Vatican City, and Spanish Steps. Trains run from 5:30 AM to 11:30 PM (until 1:30 AM on Fridays and Saturdays), making it convenient for both early birds and night owls.

In addition to the metro, Rome's extensive bus and tram networks cover areas that the metro does not reach, providing a comprehensive means to explore the city's charming neighbourhoods and hidden gems. Buses operate from early morning until late at night, with night buses (Nottuno) available for late-night travellers. For a more leisurely pace, consider renting a bike or using the city's bike-sharing services to pedal through Rome's historic streets. Whether you choose to travel by metro, bus, tram, or bike, Rome's transportation system ensures that you can easily and efficiently experience all the wonders this ancient city has to offer.

__________________________________________________________________________________

Conclusion: Embrace the Magic of Rome

Rome is a city that captivates visitors with its rich history, vibrant culture, and timeless beauty. From exploring top attractions in Rome like the Colosseum and Vatican City to uncovering hidden gems in Rome's charming neighbourhoods, there is no shortage of unforgettable experiences in Rome.

Whether you're delving into the past with a comprehensive Rome sightseeing guide or seeking unique activities in Rome that go beyond the typical tourist trail, the Eternal City offers something for everyone.

To make the most of your visit, consider some Rome travel tips and the best tours in Rome to enhance your experience. From family activities in Rome to romantic things to do in Rome, every moment in this city can become a cherished memory.

Whether it's ticking off items on your Rome bucket list or enjoying fun things to do in Rome, you'll find that every corner of this ancient metropolis holds a new adventure. So pack your bags, embrace the best things to do in Rome, and get ready for a journey that you'll treasure forever.

Are you ready to explore the Magic of Rome: its culture, rich history, famous gelato and many more historical sites? If you need ideas on where to stay, then we got you!

Let Melanin Travels Magic take care of all the details so you can focus on enjoying every moment. Reach out today to start your adventure!

Request a Flight & Hotel Package

Are you a solo traveller wanting to explore African culture?

Why not join our upcoming Group trips in Zanzibar, the legendary Kilimanjaro Trekking Machame route or immerse yourselves in Dutty December Culture, Adventure & Festival in Ghana?

Click here for itinerary and booking info