Rome is a popular destination to add on travel itineraries for clients visiting Italy. Furthermore, why not? Rome is so breathtaking! It is well-known for a good reason and is attractive, historic, lovely, and romantic! Furthermore, Rome can be very overwhelming. It can be intimidating attempt to see its most significant sights in a short period of time. It's also important to stay informed on where and how to obtain tickets because things might change at any time! Whether you are traveling with friends, family, or as a couple, the secret to making the most of your time is to plan the ideal itinerary for you and your travel partners. To truly make the most of your time in this timeless city, embracing the flexibility and adventure of a Rome self-guided tour is key.
When in Rome, do as the Romans do with our top things to do in and around the city. Time to start planning your Rome Bucket List!
Planning your first (or third) trip to Rome? There are many hidden treasures, historical sites, and locations to get a taste of local life in the Eternal City. No matter your style of travel, we've compiled this list of the top things to do in Rome because we know how difficult it can be to decide what to do.
Visit The Vatican’s Sistine Chapel
If the Vatican museums aren't on any list of the best things to do in Rome, it's not worth reading. Among the best collections in the world are those found in the Vatican museums. However, an unscheduled visit can easily turn from the vacation of your dreams into a nightmare. We're not advocating that you must go on a tour. We are a tour company, after all, but not everyone can afford tours, or perhaps your budget is limited. All of our advice on visiting the Vatican can be found here, but if you're looking for something a little more unique, continue reading.
Visiting the Vatican after the people have dispersed is, without a question, one of the most incredible things you can do while in Rome. Yes, you can visit the Vatican Museums outside of normal operating hours if you have no other options. Once you've taken in all that amazing art, you may relax in the pinecone patio with refreshments. An ideal way to spend a Rome afternoon.
Take a self-guided tour of Vatican City from Vox City to witness this extravagant but very unique experience.
Domus Aurea
One of the most spectacular homes of its era, Emperor Nero's opulent Domus Aurea (Golden House) provides a unique window into Rome's underground. Constructed as an opulent amusement venue close to the Colosseum between 64 and 68 AD, it covered numerous historic hills in Rome before being devastated by the city's devastating fire in 64 AD. Every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, guests can participate in tours. A virtual reality tour that aims to recreate the villa's previous splendor is also available.
Capitoline Museums
The Capitoline Museums are housed in three buildings on the trapezoidal Piazza del Campidoglio, which Michelangelo created in the sixteenth century. Known as the world's first public museums, they hold Renaissance marble statues and Roman bronzes, including the Capitoline Wolf, a symbol of Rome's birth, and the Equestrian figure of Marcus Aurelius. Through the Galleria Lapidaria, an underground tunnel connecting the two main buildings of the museum, visitors may also enjoy a superb view of the Roman Forum. Make time to spend a few hours perusing the collection, and don't forget to pay a visit to Piazzale Caffarelli's hidden garden, which is nestled away right behind the square.
Take a stroll through the ruins
Rome has some of the most thrilling running and walking trails. It's also the greatest way to discover all the secret passageways, off-the-beaten-path treasures, and hidden passages.
Walk to Appia Antica Regional Park along the Appian Way for one of those unique strolls. This 3,500-hectare region is renowned for its lush greenery, historic sites, and historical artifacts. You will thus undoubtedly find what you're searching for, whether you're yearning adventure or just want to stroll away from the bustle of the Italian city.
Tip: Furthermore keep in mind that you can prevent wasting money on bottled water when you are in Rome. There are drinking fountains strewn around the city. There are over 2,500 so-called nasoni (big noses) in Italy's capital.
Visit your Local Market
Rome has a wide range of supermarkets, including less expensive chains like Lidl, just like any other metropolis. But come on, wouldn't it be nice to shop for food like locals?
Grocery shopping has historically evolved from a chore to more of a social activity for many Romans. They attend their local market first thing in the morning, get some fresh produce straight from the garden, and strike up a dialogue with the owner of their favorite stand.
Families have been operating several of the market stalls in Testaccio for many generations. This place will enthrall you with its vast assortment of fresh vegetables, cheese, bread, meat, and seafood, along with mouthwatering street food vendors.
Discover the best neighborhoods in Rome
While every area in Rome has something unique to offer, some districts stand out more than others. The list of our favorites is as follows:
The Borgho district
Visit the Borgo neighborhood for a more distinctive experience; here, you'll find quaint squares and streets bordered by classic Roman buildings. Visiting the Sistine Chapel, St. Peter's Basilica, and the Vatican Museums are a few of the most well-liked activities in the Borgo neighborhood. A few other well-liked sites in the Borgo neighborhood are the Pantheon, Piazza Navona, and Castel Sant'Angelo. The best stores, eateries, and cafes in Rome could also be found in this area as well.
The Trastevere district
Trastevere is a good option if you're searching for a neighborhood with a little more history. Many of Rome's intellectuals and artists once called this working-class area home, and it still has a bohemian vibe. This neighborhood is well-known for its vibrant nightlife, charming eateries, and cobblestone walkways. Make sure to see some of the most well-known sights in the area, such as the Piazza di Santa Maria in Trastevere and the Basilica di Santa Maria in Trastevere.
The San Lorenzo district
In search of both shopping and nightlife, the San Lorenzo district is the ideal destination. This trendy district is teeming with hipster restaurants, pubs, and vintage shops.
Casa del Jazz is one of the greatest places to go in the evenings here. Both foreign and local musicians perform at this venue. Try Bar Basso for a more relaxed vibe. This establishment is well-known for its retro atmosphere and Negroni cocktails.
Discover Rome's traditional wine and food.
Among the key tenets of Italian culture are food and wine. Rome is a city that is well-versed in traditional culinary traditions. Rome offers something for everyone to enjoy, from delicious pasta dishes to decadent sweets.
What dishes is Rome famous for?
Known for its combination of cheese, bacon, and eggs, spaghetti alla carbonara is considered the ultimate dish in Roman cuisine. Other well-liked dishes consist of:
Pasta with cheese and pepper, known as cacio e pepe, and veal cooked with sage and prosciutto are the ingredients of saltimbocca. The dish called pollo alla romana consists of chicken cooked in white wine with garlic.
Naturally, visiting Rome wouldn't be complete without sampling some authentic gelato! The city is filled with innumerable gelaterias, each with a distinct flavor.
The best restaurants in Rome
Rome offers an extensive selection of eateries, making it simple to become lost in them. Fear not—we performed the necessary research and have compiled this list for you.
1. Try Trattoria dei 13 Gobbi for a typical Italian meal. In a welcoming setting, this family-owned eatery serves customers classic cuisine including fresh pasta.
2. Try Da Giggetto or a typical Roman dinner. This well-liked restaurant offers traditional dishes including amatriciana and carbonara.
3. Check out Sforno for something a little different. This 1882-founded restaurant is well-known for its distinctive "oven-baked" pizza.
4. Another family-run eatery that has been providing authentic Roman food since 1950 is called Da Ivo. This is the ideal location for a traditional carbonara or spaghetti all'amatriciana.
5. One of the city's most well-liked fine dining establishments is La Pergola. The restaurant serves inventive versions of classic Italian fare and has an amazing wine cellar.
Make time for Rome's top events
Rome's calendar is filled with festivals and events all year long, so there's always something going on there. Everyone can appreciate something, whether it's food and wine or art and culture.
The following are a few of the top celebrations and events in Rome that you should not miss:
1. Held in October, the Rome Film Festival is one of the world's most prominent film festivals.
2. Held in November, the Rome Jazz Festival is one of the biggest jazz festivals in Europe.
3. Every October, the Roma Eurochocolate Festival is a chocolate lover's dream come true.
4. Every November, coffee enthusiasts should attend the Rome Coffee Festival.
5. Every two years in odd-numbered years, a significant international art show called the Rome Art Biennale takes place.
6. Every June, one of the biggest theater events in Europe is held, the Roma Teatro Festival.
7. Rome Gay Pride is a yearly celebration of the city's LGBT community. It usually happens in late June or early July, when the entire city is decked out in parades and other celebrations. The pride will take place this year from July 7–9.
Navigating Rome with a self-guided tour opens the door to a world of exploration, allowing you to savor the city's treasures at your own pace. From ancient marvels like the Colosseum and Roman Forum to the artistic wonders within the Vatican City, each moment becomes a personal encounter with the rich tapestry of Rome's history and culture.
Whether you're strolling through charming neighborhoods, ascending panoramic hills, or indulging in street food delights, a self-guided approach ensures that every step is a discovery. Embrace the freedom to wander, linger, and immerse yourself in the timeless beauty of Rome, making each activity and attraction a chapter in your own Roman adventure. Unveil the marvels of this eternal city, where every corner tells a story and every moment is an invitation to fall in love with Rome anew.
So, what are you waiting for? Go out and discover everything Rome sightseeing has to offer. You'll be able to explore the city like an expert and discover all of its hidden treasures if you have this guide with you. Have fun!
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