Things to do in Rome: the must-sees and our tips
Contents
In short: Rome is best explored on foot, from square to square. Book ancient Rome (Colosseum, Forum, Palatine) and the Vatican in advance, then wander the historic centre, from the Pantheon to Piazza Navona, before dinner in Trastevere.
The Colosseum, the Roman Forum and the Palatine
Rome’s symbol, the Colosseum, is visited together with the Roman Forum, heart of the ancient city, and the Palatine, the hill of the emperors: one ticket, with a booked time slot. Allow half a day, good shoes and water.
The Vatican: St Peter’s and the Sistine Chapel
St Peter’s Basilica is breathtaking in scale; you can climb the dome for the view over the square. The Vatican Museums lead to the Sistine Chapel and Michelangelo’s frescoes: book a time slot and come early.
The historic centre
- The Pantheon (paid entry), an ancient temple with a spectacular dome.
- Piazza Navona and its baroque fountains.
- The Trevi Fountain: since 2026, access to the edge of the fountain is paid.
- The Spanish Steps, and the Campo de’ Fiori and its market.
Trastevere
Across the Tiber, Trastevere and its ivy-covered lanes are the ideal area for dinner. Don’t miss the Basilica of Santa Maria in Trastevere and its mosaics.
Villa Borghese and Castel Sant’Angelo
The large Villa Borghese park is home to the Borghese Gallery (booking required), with Bernini’s sculptures. On the Tiber, Castel Sant’Angelo offers a fine view of St Peter’s.
The Appian Way and the catacombs
South of the city, the ancient Appian Way can be explored on foot or by bike, among umbrella pines, tombs and catacombs.
Eating in Rome
Roman pasta (carbonara, cacio e pepe, amatriciana), supplì, pizza al taglio and an artisan gelato.
Day trips from Rome
- Ostia Antica, a well-preserved Roman town near the sea.
- Tivoli, Villa d’Este and its fountain gardens.
- Florence, about 1 h 30 away by high-speed train.
- Naples and Pompeii, for a full day.
Getting around
- On foot for the centre; the metro for longer trips.
- From Fiumicino, the direct Leonardo Express train reaches Termini station in about 32 minutes; from Ciampino, buses run to Termini.
All the tips for the country: Travel in Italy.
Where to stay in Rome
The historic centre to do everything on foot, Monti for atmosphere, Trastevere for charm, Prati for calm near the Vatican. Every area is detailed in our guide Where to stay in Rome. For a day-by-day plan, see Rome in 3 days.
Frequently asked questions
How many days do you need in Rome?
Three to four days for the essentials: ancient Rome (Colosseum, Forum, Palatine), the Vatican, the historic centre (Pantheon, Piazza Navona, Trevi Fountain) and Trastevere. More for museums and day trips.
Do you need to book the Colosseum and the Vatican Museums?
Yes: book tickets with a time slot in advance on the official websites, especially in high season. The Colosseum, the Roman Forum and the Palatine share a single ticket.
Can you get close to the Trevi Fountain?
Since 2026, access to the edge of the fountain is paid; the square remains open to everyone. Check the conditions on the city's official website before your visit.