Top things to see in Rome: 21 amazing places
Top things to see in Rome: 21 amazing places

Top things to see in Rome: 21 amazing places

Dear traveler, welcome to this Rome travel guide that contains top things to see in Rome. What to expect from this article? Well, I hope that it will serve you as a detailed plan to use for your Rome itinerary, will inspire you to have more fun while visiting this historic city, or will compel you to make this your next travel destination.

Buckle up, because I’m going to take you on a virtual trip to one of the most top rated destinations in Europe, Rome.

Top things to see in Rome

Just to let you know… This post (probably) contains affiliate links, including Amazon Associates links, and I may receive a small commission when you click on the links. This is at no extra cost to you and allows me to keep running this website. How cool is that?! I only recommend products I would use myself and all opinions expressed here are my own.

Welcome to Rome: Exploring the Eternal City's Top Attractions

I feel like Rome is a very popular destination in Europe, especially for tourists. I say tourists, because for me tourists and travelers are different and have particular goals when it comes to traveling. Tourists usually want to see top things in any location, prefer to explore the most popular destination, while travelers enjoy exploring in depth every place and try to immerse themselves in the culture. They always want to discover hidden gems and choose the off-road instead of the popular ones. For travelers, traveling is a way of living, not just a hobby or a thing to do on vacations. Of course, there are also people like me, who sometimes are a combination of both.

That being said, no matter what type of explorer you are, I think that Rome is a must see and a worthy destination. In order for you to make the most out of your trip, just remember that Rome is more than just good food, the Colosseum and Vatican City. This is why I wrote this Rome travel guide. I want to share with you top things to see in Rome, that aren’t just the landmarks mentioned above.

While exploring the eternal city’s top attractions, you are going to learn a lot about history in the best possible way, by seeing the places where famous battles and events happened. Events that shaped Romans history and basically made modern Rome what it is today, which is one of the most visited destinations in Europe. I feel like Rome is like a time window from which you can witness history being written.

I know that in Europe there are many other cities that I would prefer instead of Rome (and I know there are people that think the same). To be honest, I think that so far, Florence is my favorite city from Italy. 

What is your favorite city in Italy? Leave me a comment below, I would love to know.

However, Rome is a beautiful destination and if you like visiting historic sites and art galleries, then for sure you are going to love it. 

Ancient Rome: Marvels of History and Architecture

Colosseum: Iconic Amphitheater of Ancient Rome

The Colosseum is an ancient Roman amphitheater and one of the most iconic landmarks in Rome, which makes it a must-visit for most travelers. 

The Colosseum is a quiet testament to the city’s history. What awe-struck me from the first moment I looked at this iconic site, was the grandeur and the architectural design and styles. Even if I knew from photos and clips how it looked, I was impressed to witness this imposing structure. 

During Roman times, the Colosseum was primarily used for gladiatorial battles and public spectacles which included exotic animals, like elephants for example. How fascinating is this fact?!..well, fascinating in a sad way, but as you probably know those times were brutal.

If you close your eyes while being there, you can almost hear the cheers of spectators or the sounds of battle. It’s admirable how the Colosseum stood the test of time and it’s still a remarkable visiting place for thousands of people. 

Want to know something creepy and fascinating all the same?  It is believed that the Colosseum is haunted by the troubled spirits of gladiators and other tormented souls that lost their lives within its walls. The legends say that on certain nights, at midnight, you can hear the echoes of clashing swords and cries. There are many stories similar to this one and I feel like hearing them while you are visiting the Colosseum has a different impact, then reading them after your trip. I believe in scary stuff and legends like these, but no matter if you believe or not or if these are just the result of vivid imagination, I feel like it adds to the Colosseum’s mysterious atmosphere.

Regarding visiting this popular landmark, my top and most important advice to you, is to book a guided tour that includes all the corners, including the underground. My only regret is that we booked a guided tour at the location and we didn’t research for one before our trip. The visit was very nice and we learnt a lot of cool facts and things about the Colosseum, but I feel like maybe we missed out on some things. So, do your research and pick the best option for you. You can check out the tours below and use the widget to verify the availability without any added effort. 

Visiting the Colosseum with a guide that knows all those freaky and scary legends and myths will keep you entertained and engaged the whole time. I feel like if you know the events that happened in the Colosseum, it will enhance your experience there tenfold.

Fun fact (shared by our guide): Did you know that the gladiators that lasted the longest during battles were those with belly fat? I know that in movies we see these perfectly built gladiators with six packs, but in reality having fat along the belly protects their internal organs. Sounds crazy, right?! But I have to say that it makes a lot of sense.

Regarding the visiting hours, tickets and other details that you need to know before you plan your trip, check out their website, here.

Roman Forum: Journey through Ancient Roman Civilization

The Roman Forum is located between Capitoline Hill and Palatine Hill and is very close to the Colosseum as well.

The Roman Forum was a very important part of ancient Rome, serving as the social, political and commercial core for centuries. While visiting the Roman Forum you will encounter several important buildings such as the Temple of Saturn, the Senate House, the Arch of Septimius Severus and the Rostra.

When you step into the Roman Forum you will be transported back to ancient Rome. Imagine, in this space, orators captivating the public, ideas and ideologies being spoken and religious ceremonies taking place. In places like the Roman Forum history was made, people were influenced and life was shaped. I imagine that the Forum was always buzzing with energy, with politicians and merchants roaming around.

Without any doubt, the Roman Forum needs to be included on any list with top things to see in Rome. During your visit, I encourage you to take your time, breathe in everything that this place is offering. Immerse yourself in the energy surrounding you and contemplate all the passionate debates and rituals that took place here. My advice is to go on a guided tour to make the best of the whole experience. You can find tours that offer packages that include the Colosseum, the Roman Forum and other landmarks. Check out the ones above.

Top things to see in Rome

Arch of Constantine: Triumphal Arch in the Roman Forum

The Arch of Constantine is famous for being built to commemorate the victory of Emperor Constantine during the Battle of Milvian Bridge. It’s located near the Colosseum and the Roman Forum. Knowing the surroundings is very useful in any itinerary, because you can plan your trip better and more efficiently. 

The Arch of Constantine is also the perfect place for you to take cool and very Instagram-worthy pictures.

Altar of the Fatherland: Monument Celebrating Italian Unification

The Altar of the Fatherland is a magnificent and imposing building that represents a symbol of Italian unification and national identity. This historical landmark, considered a must-see in Rome, is a monument dedicated to Victor Emmanuel II, the first king of a unified Italy.

The Altar of the Fatherland is located in Piazza Venezia, a central square in Rome. This location makes it perfect if you want to witness amazing panoramic views of the Colosseum and the Roman Forum.

The Altar of the Fatherland is free to visit, but you need to pay if  you want to access the elevators that will take you to the terrace from where you can have beautiful scenic overlooks over Rome. 

This beautiful landmark serves as a gathering place for national celebrations and other events.

Vatican City: Spiritual and Artistic Treasures

Vatican City is for sure one of the top things to see in Rome. No matter if you are catholic or even religious, I feel like this famous landmark is a great addition to your travel bucket list.

There are several things to see in Vatican City such as St Peter’s Square, St. Peter’s Basilica, Museums and the Sistine Chapel. Make sure you are dedicating at least a full day to explore this part of Rome.

Another thing that I find useful to know is that you can book a guided tour and visit all the things mentioned. There are so many stories, symbols and memorable elements that are part of Vatican City that a guide can explain and teach you about. For us, it was fascinating to understand the meaning behind famous paintings or sculptures or find out stories behind some of the masterpieces found in Vatican Museums. 

You can have a look below and see if any of the tours are suited for you. I promise that it will be money well spent.

Also, if you want to read more about Vatican City, all the things you can see, general news, specific details and information about tickets and visiting hours, you can check out their official website.

There are a lot of things to write about Vatican City, this is why I’m going to dedicate an entire article to writing a more complete travel guide, so stay in touch for that, because it’s coming very soon!

A. St. Peter's Square: Grand Piazza at the Heart of Vatican City

St. Peter’s Square is a piazza that serves as a reminder to the grandeur that is Vatican City. Immerse yourself in the beautiful architectural elements that define St. Peter’s Square, such as the gorgeous colonnade designed by Gian Lorenzo Bernini, the rows of Doric columns and the towering Egyptian obelisk.

This is the place where the Pope is holding his audiences and celebrations, so you can imagine the energy and the vibration that this square has. There are beautiful spots where you can take great pictures, you can sit around and admire the view or watch people roaming around. I especially like people watching in big places like St. Peter’s Square, because there is enough “room” for each individual to do their own things, take photos, sit and admire the view or discuss with their companions. 

This Vatican City mini travel guide wouldn’t be complete without mentioning St. Peter’s Square. This is why I will repeat what I already said, don’t rush your visit to the Vatican. There is so much to see and admire.

St. Peter's Basilica: Majestic Renaissance Basilica

St. Peter’s Basilica is one of the most impressive and splendid churches that I have seen so far. From the moment you step inside, you are going to be awe-struck by the stunning frescoes, sculptures and elaborate mosaics. 

St. Peter’s Basilica is one of the most important and holiest sites in Christianity, because it was built upon the burial of Saint Peter. Also, many popes are buried here.

I didn’t know a lot about architecture styles or designs, but I learnt that St. Peter’s Basilica is marked by the magnificent Renaissance architecture and design by famous artists, like Michelangelo and Gian Lorenzo Bernini.

As I already mentioned, I highly recommend you book a guided tour, or an audio guide to have a better understanding of the basilica’s history and the art behind it. Even if St. Peter’s Basilica is free to visit, the waiting can be very long, plus you are going to miss out on all the things you can learn from this experience. Also, with a tour you are going to skip the line and visit it at a fixed hour, which is very important, especially when you are running on a tight itinerary.

Many guided tours offer a whole package that include Sistine Chapel, Vatican Museums and St.Peter’s Basilica.

If you are a fan of panoramic views, then you can climb to the top of the dome and be impressed by gorgeous views of Rome. If you are booking a tour and are interested in climbing the dome, then make sure that it is included (check out the tour below).

Vatican Museums: Artistic Riches and Historical Collections

There are many museums in Vatican City, such as the Pio-Clementine Museum, the Gallery of Maps, the Gregorian Egyptian Museum, the Vatican Historical Museum, the Gallery of Tapestries, the Raphael Rooms, the Sistine Chapel (which I’m presenting separately) and many more.

Even though it is so cool to visit the museums, because there is so much beauty in each of them, having a guide with you will add true value to your experience. I don’t know how many things you already know about Michelangelo’s work, or about the stories behind famous pieces of art, like Raphael’s frescoes, but I’m sure that it’s still so many things to learn. 

I think that my favorite museum was the Gallery of Maps. I was fascinated by the colors and the beauty of all the maps and the way they were displayed.

I’m curious, which one was your favorite? Or which museum excites you the most to see? Leave me a comment below!

Sistine Chapel: Michelangelo's Masterpiece

The Sistine Chapel is a sacred chapel that serves as the official residence of the Pope. This famous landmark is a masterpiece where art and spirituality intertwine. This is why I highly recommend you don’t skip on visiting Vatican City, including the Sistine Chapel. No matter if you are religious or not, the art and history behind this place is fascinating and eye-catching. 

I was impressed by Michelangelo’s work and unparalleled talent. The representation for different scenes from the Book of Genesis are so beautifully done, that will make you stare at them in wonder. The masterpiece is the Last Judgment, where the Second Coming of Christ and the final judgment of souls is represented. The vision of this stunning fresco is breathtaking. 

The whole Sistine Chapel was a divine beauty to me, so I suggest you take your time and let your eye and mind wonder and reflect on the themes that are represented here, like faith, salvation and divine intervention.

Castles, Squares, and Fountains: Rome's Scenic Delights

Castel Sant'Angelo: Mausoleum Turned Fortress

Castel Sant’Angelo was originally the mausoleum of the Roman emperor Hadrian and it was built in 135-139 AD and converted into a fortress in the 5th century.

The location of Castel Sant’Angelo very close to a beautiful bridge and the overall view, make this location very picturesque. 

You can visit the outside and take advantage of all the good angles for your Instagram photos, but you can also explore the interior. On the first Sunday of every month you can visit many landmarks in Rome for free, but you will need to double check this information and also see if Castel Sant’Angelo is included on that list. If this is not an option for you, then you can visit on your own by researching their visiting hours and tickets on their website, or you can book a tour with an audio guide.

Piazza del Popolo: Vibrant Square with Egyptian Obelisk

Piazza del Popolo is a large and well-known landmark in Rome. Thus, it’s one of the top things to see in Rome. Here you can admire the beautiful obelisk, the impressive Fontana del Nettuno and the interesting twin churches, Santa Maria dei Miracoli and Santa Maria in Montesanto.

This square was very interesting to watch because it had that symmetrical effect and the impression that every element was placed with intention and care to make that effect happen.

Piazza del Popolo is the perfect place to take a break, rest your legs while marveling at the view and energy surrounding you. If you are like me and enjoy people-watching (yes, this is a thing…well, I hope that I’m not the only weirdo), this square will not disappoint as it’s flooded with locals and tourists engaged in lively conversations and laughter. I feel like this square is like a hub for human connection and has that beautiful ambiance that will remain in your heart even after you leave.

If I’m being honest, this is one of the things that I really enjoyed in Rome (beside all the obvious stuff, like the art, history and culture). Finding big spaces with beautiful art details that are crowded with happy people.

Galleria Borghese: Art Museum Amidst Beautiful Gardens

If you are an art enthusiast or want to start exploring more galleries and museums, then you should add Galleria Borghese on your list with top things to see in Rome.

After you figure out what tour you should book and on what day you are going to visit (check out the links below for some recommendations), prepare to be amazed and captivated by the masterpieces that you will encounter during your exploration in Galleria Borghese.

Spanish Steps: Staircase and Meeting Place

The Spanish Steps are an iconic symbol of Rome’s charm and a must-see place. Even if you aren’t passionate about history, their aesthetics and position make them perfect for photoshoots. 

The steps were built between 1723 and 1726 (so old! I love old steps, I find them romantic) and lead from the Piazza di Spagna square to the French monastery church called Trinita dei Monti. So step in history and soak up the vibrant atmosphere. Usually the area of the steps is crowded with energetic people trying to get the best angles or roaming around and enjoying the ambience. 

At the bottom of the Spanish Steps there is a charming fountain, called the Fountain of Barcaccia or the Fountain of the Old Boat. I don’t know if you already are familiar with this, but in Rome there are a lot of pretty awesome fountains! The Fountain of the Old Boat commemorates the flooding of the Tiber River in the 17th century. 

The Spanish Steps and the Fountain of Barcaccia make this place a beloved location of tourists and locals alike. 

If you are an active traveler and enjoy sneaking a small “workout” during your travels, the Spanish Steps consist of 135 steps in total, perfect for a little hike.

Also, the whole area surrounding the steps is worth exploring. There are a lot of picturesque streets with boutiques, art galleries and other shops. 

So, make sure you include the Spanish Steps on your Rome itinerary. 

The Pantheon: Ancient Temple turned Church

The Pantheon is a timeless testament of Rome’s power and influence. 

Initially the Pantheon was built over 2000 years ago as a temple to worship the gods of ancient Rome. In the 7th century it was transformed into a Christian church. Can you imagine how many events and iconic moments were witnessed by the Pantheon’s silent walls? Fascinating, right?! If walls could talk..

The architectural splendor of the Pantheon impressed me for sure. As you step inside, marvel at the enormous dome and the interesting oculus that lets natural light inside. There are also many beautiful details, like the columns, so you should take your time and be present during your visit. I know I repeat myself a lot with this, but I feel like it’s vital for us travelers to learn to enjoy our explorations more by just immersing and absorbing the atmosphere and our surroundings in any destination (this is something I’m still working on as well).

Top things to see in Rome

The Trevi Fountain: Baroque Beauty and Coin-Throwing Tradition

Remember when I told you that there is something about Rome and charming fountains? Well, I feel like Trevi Fountain is one of the most outstanding fountains that I saw in Italy, not just in Rome. 

What I loved the most about this fountain (beside the aesthetics and architectural details) was the story it was telling. It felt like the sculptures with the sea god, the tritons and the nymphs transport you into another world, where these creatures thrive.

The only thing I didn’t like so much at the Trevi Fountain, was that the area in front of it was very crowded. You couldn’t take even the smallest frame in your photos with the fountain without people being there. So, if photos are super important to you, then make sure you plan your visit VERY early in the morning. 

Of course, where a fountain is found the coin-throwing tradition follows. If you look into the crystal clear waters you can see countless coins thrown there by people. So, if you believe in this myth or just want to respect the tradition, then make sure you have coins when you visit.

Top things to see in Rome

Piazza Navona: Fountains and Baroque Architecture

Piazza Navona is a vibrant place that should be included on your Rome itinerary. Beside visiting historical sites and museums, one of the best things to see and do in Rome is to seek famous squares, fountains and street sculptures. Piazza Navona has all of that and more. Other attractions include churches, palaces, cafes and restaurants that are located around Piazza Navona.

The shape of the square is due to the fact that over the course of the centuries, this place has been a stadium for athletics competitions that hosted up to 20.000 people. 

In Navona Piazza you can admire three gorgeous fountains like Neptune’s Fountain, the Moor Fountains and the Fountain of the Four Rivers. Like all the fountains in Rome, these three tell stories and are so beautiful to watch. 

Navona Piazza is the perfect and picturesque place for you to take a break, have a great meal, drink a cappuccino or just sit around and admire the view. 

Neighborhoods and Culinary Experiences

Trastevere: Bohemian Charm and Authentic Vibe

Trastevere is a bohemian neighborhood and a hidden gem that will lure you in with charming boutiques, restaurants and captivating streets. The cobblestone streets and narrow alleys are perfect to roam around before you go to dinner or lunch. 

Speaking of food, Trastevere is the place for you if you are looking for traditional cooking and great wine. There is a wide array of restaurants to choose from, so make sure you double check their rating and score on Google Maps or Tripadvisor, so you pick the best or the one that suits your budget. The ambiance is very nice and welcoming and creates this perfect atmosphere for you to indulge in Rome delights.

Without a doubt, Trastevere is one of the top things to see in Rome, so make sure you add it to your travel itinerary.

Gelato Delights: Indulging in Rome's Finest Frozen Treats

How can I write a Rome travel guide without adding gelato to the list with top things to experience in the Eternal City! People that say they don’t like gelato, sorry but we can’t be friends. Kidding! My husband isn’t a big fan of ice cream and says that he doesn’t understand it (the audacity, I know! But he has other qualities 😉 ), but he always eats gelato when we visit Italy. 

Of course, you can find gelato everywhere, but there are places that have good ones and places with exquisite ones! You will have to do a little research, or try as many as possible. 

One place that has one of the best gelatos I tasted in Rome was near the Trevi Fountain. Sadly, I didn’t write the name, but if you are facing the fountain, then on your left is the place that I found. 

Pasta and Pizza Pleasures: Savoring Rome's Signature Dish

I love food! If you read other travel guides on my blog you already know how much I love food, especially trying new recipes from different countries. Food is part of the culture and it’s one of the best travel experiences in my opinion.

Italian food is one of my favorites! I love love pasta! When you are planning your trip to Rome, I’m suggesting you include some traditional restaurants and plan your lunches and dinners. 

Eating in Rome is part of the travel experience and you are going to remember all those delicious dishes, this I assure you.

Apart from the food, if you are a big fan of coffee, then you need to drink it in Rome (in Italy in general), especially cappuccino. I don’t know how the Italians prepare their coffees, but the cappuccino in particular is the best one I ever tasted. 

Every time we took a break from our explorations, it was tradition (and still is whenever we visit Italy) for me to order cappuccinos.

Walking the street of Rome: Discover hidden gems

I remember a conversation I had with my husband regarding Rome, which is so interesting because even if I didn’t know at that time, it’s so true now that I think more about it. Rome is one of those cities, where at every step you find something that even if it’s not a popular landmark, or targeted by most tourists, is worth seeing. It was so cool because we ended up exploring the city by foot and on random streets we found ruins, sculptures, old buildings.

Rome is such a captivating city, but in order for you to immerse yourself in its ambience you need to explore it freely. Put on comfortable shoes and prepare for an adventure. I feel like the Eternal City is telling its story and history through random ruins and old buildings like pieces of a puzzle.

I couldn’t write this Rome travel guide without encouraging you to walk the streets and discover hidden gems, after you finish with all the famous landmarks and still have time to spare.

Exploring Beyond Rome: Day Trips and Excursions

Appian Way: Ancient Roman Road and Archaeological Sites

The Eternal City has so much to offer in terms of history and ancient stories. This is why the Appian Way is one of the top things to see in Rome and you need to include it on your itinerary.

The Appian Way is one of the most famous ancient roads in Rome. Originally, this road connected Rome to a big port, named Brindisi. The distance was approx. 500 km. As you can imagine the Appian Way played an important role in connecting the Eternal City to other areas from the Roman Empire. It was used for moving armies, or transporting goods and was a strategic road overall.

Today the Appian Way is an iconic attraction in Rome that also transformed into an archaeological treasure known as the Appian Way Regional Park. Basically this is an ancient road with archaeological sites around it, such as ruins (Circus Maxentius) and the Tomb of Cecilia Metella. 

So if you want to walk in the footsteps of history and have a sneak peek into the Rome Empire, then you should definitely plan a visit to the Appian Way and take your time exploring it. Apart from the ancient ruins and tombs, the landscape is very picturesque due to the countryside scenery. 

As you traverse the Appian Way you can take in the tranquility of the region outside the crowded city of Rome and imagine all the events that took place here, things that maybe had an important impact for modern Rome as we know it.

If you want to make the best of your visit and understand every archaeological site, then you should consider booking a guided tour.

If you are interested, then check out the ones below and use the widget to check out availability. 

Day Trips from Rome: Discovering the Surrounding Gems

If you are staying multiple days in Rome and you are done exploring everything that the Eternal City has to offer, then you should also consider planning some day trips from Rome and discover other gems.

Depending on your budget and the time that you have left, you have multiple choices. You can take trips to famous destinations like Pompei, Amalfi Coast or Tuscany. 

For this activity you need to either rent a car or book a guided tour.

Regarding the latter, there are tours that offer multiple destinations in just one trip. If you want to keep the Amalfi coast or Tuscany to explore in more detail in future trips (as I encourage you to do), then you can visit Castel Gandolfo and Lake Albano. This location is only one hour drive from Rome and it’s perfect if you want to escape the city and go into nature.

Other destinations that are close to Rome (approx. 30 km) are Tivoli and Ostia Antica, which is Rome’s seaside region. 

If you are interested, check out the tours below.

Unforgettable Memories: Experiencing Rome's Diverse Offerings

As you can see the list with top things to do in Rome is very long, and I’m sure that even more can be added to this travel guide. 

I know that Rome is a very popular destination in Italy and in Europe and it’s on everyone’s travel bucket list. And I also know that the Colosseum, Vatican City and eating pasta are a must for travelers and I fully support that. These were top attractions for me as well while visiting Rome. 

That being said, there is one important aspect that I want you to take from this article, which is that Rome, the Eternal City, is so much more than those top attractions. There is art, history and timeless beauty spread through the city and surrounding it. There are ancient ruins, gorgeous fountains, mystical roads and endless sceneries that will transport you in time, that will bring you untold stories and legends that are at the foundation of Italy’s capital.

If you plan your trip while keeping your schedule flexible and while being eager to go in search of hidden treasures, then you are going to have a lot of unforgettable memories from your trip to Rome.

I hope this Rome travel guide is useful for you and you now have a complete list with exciting attractions to add to your itinerary. As you can see, if you read the whole article (if you had, then congrats, I know it was a long read) I included all the resources and information that I find are necessary and may I say, vital, for you to have the best time in Rome. 

What not to be missed in Rome?

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What is the number 1 attraction in Rome?

The number one attraction in Rome is for sure the Colosseum.

How to explore Rome in 3 days?

Write an itinerary and stick to it. Try to plan your days based on the distance between each attraction, but leave free time for visiting. Group the main landmarks for each day in a way that is also fun and relaxing. For example, you can plan a whole day in Vatican City, another one for Colosseum, Roman Forum, the Altar of Fatherland, Pantheon and other landmarks that are close and so on. 

What are some things to do in Rome that are free?

There are a lot of things to do that are free in Rome, including seeing the exterior of most of the popular attractions, such as the Colosseum.

Other things include:

  • Fontana di trevi
  • The Pantheon
  • Piazza Navona
  • Spanish Steps
  • Trastevere
  • Altar of Fatherland (amazing view)
  • St. Peter’s Basilica (you need to pay only if you want to visit the dome)

What are the top attractions to visit in Rome?

There is a list with top 10 things to see in Rome:

  • Colosseum
  • Pantheon
  • Roman Forum
  • Vatican City (including Sistine Chapel and St. Peter’s Basilica)
  • Spanish Steps
  • Fontana di Trevi
  • Piazza Navona
  • Eat gelato
  • Eat pasta
  • Bike through Appian Way

What are the most popular things to do in Rome with kids?

There are a lot of amazing things to do in Rome with kids. Rome is the perfect occasion for your kids to learn about Roman history and it can also be fun. They are going to have a lot of fun learning about the Colosseum and the fascinating stories about gladiators, heroes and other legends. Depending on your kids age, you can do the following things (i suggest you book guided tours, so they can learn a lot more stuff)

  • Visit the historic landmarks like: Colosseum, Roman Forum, Pantheon
  • Explore popular square and fountains, like Piazza Navona, Fontana di Trevi, Spanish Steps
  • Ride bikes through Appian Way
  • Eat gelato (this is a must!)
  • Visit St. Peter’s Basilica
  • Explore the streets and discover random hidden gems (this can be a fun game to play with your kids).

Also, there are fun activities to do with your children, like enroll in a gladiator training. Check out below the 2-hour gladiator school activity that I found. It has great reviews and sounds so entertaining.

How many days in Rome is enough?

If you want to enjoy the full Rome experience you will need 4 to 5 days, but if you want to see only the most popular attractions, 3 days are also manageable if you plan a great itinerary. 

If you are looking for more travel inspiration, then check out my other travel guides.

Happy traveling! 😁