Things to do in Rome

Discover the hidden treasures of Rome

A beautiful city so full of art, gourmet food and drink and lots of amazing shopping opportunities, that one trip doesn’t do it justice. Rome is destination like no other, it is both a living museum and a bustling modern city.

You can marvel at Renaissance architecture, eat fantastic street food and cycle around the sights of Ancient Rome. And while a lot of visitors go for the classic holiday in Rome, visiting the Vatican and the Colosseum, there is much more to this wonderful city. Discover new areas, chat with locals in traditional trattorias, shop in trendy hipster boutiques or explore contemporary art instead. Yet one thing will always hold true – there are so many things to do in Rome that it would be impossible to fit it all in.

Explore historic Rome

Tours of ancient Rome start at the Roman Forum and The Colosseum – to get to grips with its fascinating history, why not book an educational guided tour? Admire the angels that guard the Castel Sant’Angelo and the stunning architecture of The Pantheon – just walk through the enormous open door and look up. Vatican City is an inspiring place, with so much to see you’ll need a whole day – don’t miss Michelangelo's awe-inspiring artwork on the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel.

Hit the shops

The bustling areas around the Spanish Steps and Trevi Fountain are great for upscale shopping and certainly attract the crowds. But you don’t have to spend a fortune to enjoy shopping in Rome. Join the locals on Via Giubbonari and enjoy retail therapy on a budget in the Pantheon area. Explore foodie heaven, Campo De Fiori, or splash out and head to the hip boutiques of Monti, where you are sure to find something unique for your wardrobe.

Take in the sights

Sightseeing in Rome starts in Piazza Navona. This pedestrian square is home to curvaceous architecture, chic cafes and elaborate fountains. The Campo De Fiori is a lively area, with colourful market stalls, whilst The Spanish Steps is usually abuzz with people and musicians. If you want to avoid the crowds, see the sights at night – when the Trevi Fountain looks spectacular. Climb up Aventine Hill for spectacular views over Rome and look through The Aventine Keyhole for a perfectly framed glimpse of the Vatican.

Restaurant scene with empty tables and chairs in Rome.

Enjoy the foodie scene

Taste the best Italian coffee in Rome at La Tazza d’Oro in Centro Storico or sample some traditional Italian gelato – Giolitti in Via Uffici del Vicario is the place to go. From Michelin-starred eateries in Centro Storico to traditional trattorias and trendy wine bars in Travestere, you can enjoy delectable Italian food whatever your budget. The streets of Prati are lined with wine bars, whilst Tridente is a dining hotspot and the student hangouts in San Lorenzo offer both cheap eats and intellectual musings. Why not join the locals and enjoy a picnic around one of the city’s fountains?

Bartender pouring cocktails in to martini glasses.

Nightlife

Offering something for everyone isn’t easy, but Rome manages to do it with panache. You can drink exquisite wine in elegant bars or opt for cheap beers at a bustling piazza, or something in between. The lively bars around Monti are reminiscent of East London’s hipster speakeasies, while the friendly local hangouts of Prati are more down to earth. Or grab a cocktail or two in a plush hotel, before heading to the pumping nightclubs of Testaccio.

Tips from a Ventoura Local

Locals can unlock the best secrets of your destination and let you experience their city unlike any tourist. We caught up with Lawrence, a local with a passion for Rome and his classic Italian Vespa. Check out his recommendations for the complete Rome experience, or connect with him on the Ventoura app for iPhone and Android.

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Take a walk during la passeggiata

Hit Rome’s cobblestone streets at dusk to take part in the Italian tradition of la passeggiata, which literally translates to “the walk”. This is a time when Romans wander the streets to spend time with family, see friends, and impress in their best garb. As the sun dips towards the horizon, change into your best clothes and take to the streets to truly live Rome like a local.

Taste authentic gelato

Those with a sweet tooth know that trying some of Italy’s most famous dessert is an absolute must, but knowing where to go in Rome to get the best is a true secret. Venture outside the city centre to Gori Gelato in the Montesacro district, which offers authentic Italian gelato without the sky-high prices you’ll find near the Colloseum. Treat your palate to unusual flavours (think cardamom and rice, or buckwheat) that you won’t find anywhere else in the world.

Watch a gig in Monti

Watch a gig in Monti

Monti is one of Rome’s most bohemian suburbs, with Blackmarket the premier live music venue that has a keen eye for the nostalgic and kitsch. For the true Italian experience grab a bite to eat during apertivo time in the early evening, before performances from local and international acts start. Blackmarket is also a creative and artistic hub, playing host to exhibitions and cinema nights alongside intimate concerts. It’s a venue packed with people and charm, from the quirky lampshades to the retro posters that adorn its walls, it’s undoubtedly one of Rome’s coolest venues.

Experience the riverside during LungoIl Tevere

Experience the riverside during LungoIl Tevere

As the weather heats up the Romans emerge to party at the LungoIl Tevere, a summer-long festival celebrating Roman art, food, and film. With market stalls tightly lining over a mile of the Tiber River’s banks, and everything from pizza to porchetta on offer, there’s no risk of going hungry. It’s the ultimate event on the Roman calendar that sees the riverside and Tiber Island illuminated with fairylights and brought to life with festivity. From my studies I know all about Rome's rich history and I love exploring the city. If you want someone to lead the way, find me on the Ventoura app for iPhone and Android.