We have created a list of 10 of the must-do things in Rome. The list has a mixture of both classic and ‘off-the-beaten-track’ things that we feel are a must see when you visit Rome, no matter when you are visiting.

Every Roman has done at least 6 of of the 10. We are sure that you can do better!

10 must do things in Rome

 

1) The Colosseum

One of the most reconsidered monuments in the world. Visit the first floor and see it from the inside. We feel that this is an important must do as it is not only iconic but breath-taking. The size of the Colosseum is overwhelming and you can really feel the size when you enter and walk around the first floor. Pictures do not do it justice.

 

2) The Sistine Chapel

One of the most requested tours we have is a visit to the Vatican, with special requests for the Sistine Chapel. It can get exceptionally busy and we recommend visiting early in the morning (about 8:00am) or in the later afternoon,when there are very fewer people. But regardless of when you go, the room is incredible. (please ensure that you are dressed appropriately. The Vatican has a dress code and entry can be denied. Please read our Vatican blog post for dress code information: Visiting the Vatican )

 

3) Toss a coin in the Trevi Fountain

Visit the Trevi Fountain and follow the tradition of throwing coins in over your shoulder. Legend has it that a coin thrown into the fountain will ensure a return to Rome (you can throw in a second con if you are seeking love and a third for marriage). Roughly €3000 is thrown in the fountain everyday in the high tourist seasons, and the money is collected and given to charity to help the needy of Rome. If you walk over to the right side, there are two drinking fountains to drink the water!

 

 

4) Take a landscape shot of Rome.

You might not know it, but Rome has a couple of hills, where you can get a fantastic view of the city. Gianicolo, which is the best, the Aventine Hill, The Palatine Hill and you can also visit the dome of St Peter’s Basilica or from the top of the Vittoriano.

 

5) Stroll along the shopping street

Take a stroll along the busy and fashionable Via dei Condotti (from Piazza di Spagna aka the Spanish Steps) and have a look at the windows of all the luxury boutiques such as; Prada, Gucci, Bulgari, Valentino to name put a few.

 

6) Enjoy an aperitif in Campo de’ Fiori in the evening

Campo de’Fiori is a medieval square in historic Rome and is one of the main piazzas in the city. In the mornings there is a market selling local produce, and in the evening it becomes a lively place where people love to gather at the restaurants and bars.

 

7) Look through the keyhole on the Aventine hill

The keyhole of the Knights of Malta is one of the more intriguing sights in Rome. A little off the beaten track, it has become a favourite stop for people looking for different attractions in the city. You might see a queue of visitors waiting their turn to peek through the keyhole or try and capture it with their camera. But we feel that it can only be truly experience in person.

 

8) Test your bravery and your hand in the mouth of the “Mouth of Truth”

The Mouth of Truth or  Bocca della Verità in italian, is a pagan visage that is said to bite off the hands of liars. The actual origin is still debated, but the legend seems to have originated during the Middle Ages. The disc was used during trials and the accused would put their hand in the slot and if they were found to be untruthful, a hidden axeman would be ready to remove the hand.

The Mouth of Truth is inside Santa Maria in Cosmedin church. Please make sure that your shoulders and knees are covered.

 

9) Visit the Pantheon

One of the most well-preserved and influential buildings of Ancient Rome. It was built as a temple dedicated to the gods of Pagan Rome. An extraordinary building, it is definitely worth a visit inside.

 

10) Try a traditional Italian gelato

Try a gelato the Italian way. Two to Three scoops in a cone (not a cup) in one of the gelaterias between the Pantheon and Piazza Navona.

 

Other reading your might be interested in;

https://thegrandtoureurope.com/like-a-local-ordering-an-ice-cream/

https://thegrandtoureurope.com/visiting-the-vatican/

https://thegrandtoureurope.com/visiting-the-colosseum/

https://thegrandtoureurope.com/discover-rome-with-our-tours/

https://thegrandtoureurope.com/how-to-be-like-a-local-in-italy/

 

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