What to Do in Rome: Your Complete Rome Itinerary

Everything You Should Do in Rome—And What to Skip

As Rick Steves (one of my travel icons) says about Rome: “Rome is magnificent and overwhelming at the same time.” The Eternal City is a magical and slightly chaotic mix of ancient ruins, art, food, city life, crazy drivers, the Catholic capital of the world, and so much more. There is PLENTY to see in Rome. According to legend, it was founded in 753 BC, so there has been a lot going on in the city since then. So here is the full list of what to do in Rome.

I’ve ranked what I think are the must-see and what is skippable:

⭐️⭐️⭐️: Must see!

⭐️⭐️: If you’ve got the time

⭐️: If it’s super interesting to you add it, or else skip it

But don’t let my opinion ruin the fun! If something has only one star, but it seems incredible to you, totally do it! Everything on this list would be amazing to see.

If you are looking for a full Italy Itinerary, you can check out my 10-Day Italy Itinerary!

Here’s the TL;DR version, but I go into all the details below.

Ancient sites:

• The Colosseum: ⭐️⭐️⭐️

• Roman Forum and Palatine Hill: ⭐️⭐️⭐️

• The Pantheon: ⭐️⭐️⭐️

• Pompeii: ⭐️⭐️⭐️

• National Roman Museum and Diocletian Thermal Baths: ⭐️⭐️

• Hadrian's Villa: ⭐️⭐️

• Ostia Antica: ⭐️

Art and culture:

• Vatican Museums: ⭐️⭐️⭐️

• Spanish steps: ⭐️⭐️⭐️

• St. Peter's Basilica: ⭐️⭐️⭐️

• Borghese Gallery: ⭐️⭐️

• Capitoline Museums: ⭐️⭐️

• Basilica of Santa Maria del Popolo: ⭐️

• Victor Emmanuel Monument: ⭐️

• Church of San Giovanni in Laterano: ⭐️

Miscellaneous:

• The Roman Ghetto: ⭐️⭐️

• Campo de' Fiori Market: ⭐️⭐️

• Catacombs or the Capuchin Crypt: ⭐️

• Aventine Keyhole: ⭐️

*Some links in this post are affiliate links. It doesn’t change the price, but I may earn a small commission if you purchase something I’ve recommended. I’m really grateful for your trust in my advice, and if I wouldn’t recommend it to a friend, I won’t recommend it to you.

What to Do in Rome: Ancient Sites

The Colosseum: ⭐️⭐️⭐️

The Colosseum
About	Probably one of the most iconic ancient buildings in the world, the Colosseum is a must see on your Roman holiday. The ancient amphitheater once hosted gladiator battles and grand spectacles.
How to see the Colosseum	A ticket costs around $20. You can purchase colosseum tickets from the official website here. If you’d like a free audio tour of the Colosseum, you can download the Rick Steves’ Audio Europe App.  If you’d like a live guided tour of the Colosseum, here are a few great options.  Colosseum Tour with Roman Forum, Palatine Hill and Skip-the-Line Tickets Skip the Line: Colosseum, Roman Forum & Palatine Hill Guided Tour Skip-the-Line Guided Group Tour of Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill

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Roman Forum and Palatine Hill: ⭐️⭐️⭐️

Roman Forum and Palatine Hill
About	Step into the heart of ancient Rome at the Roman Forum, where you can wander amid the ruins of temples, basilicas, and government buildings. Adjacent is Palatine Hill, the legendary birthplace of Rome, offering panoramic views. A great place for pictures!
How to see the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill	Your Colosseum ticket will include entrance to the Roman Forum and the Palatine Hill.  The Rick Steves tour and the live tours listed for the Colosseum will also guide you through the Forum and Hill.

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The Pantheon: ⭐️⭐️⭐️

The Pantheon
About	Visit the Pantheon for a stunning ancient temple dedicated to all gods. It's perfectly preserved dome and oculus are an architectural dream.
How to see the Pantheon	The Pantheon previously was free, but now is around $5.50 to get a ticket.  You can purchase tickets, audio guides, and tours directly from the Pantheons website here.

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Pompeii: ⭐️⭐️⭐

Pompeii
About	Pompeii, an ancient Roman city located near modern Naples, Italy, was a bustling and prosperous metropolis until its tragic fate in 79 AD. The city was buried under layers of volcanic ash, which preserved Pompeii remarkably well, providing a unique snapshot of life in ancient Rome.
How to see Pompeii	Seeing Pompeii would be a day trip from Rome.  Tickets to enter Pompeii are around $20 which you can buy from the official site here.  The Rick Steves’ Audio Europe app has a free audio guide of Pompeii if you are interested.  If you don’t mind renting a car or taking the train to get to Pompeii, here are a few live tour options:  Pompeii Small Group tour with an Archaeologist Pompeii and Herculaneum Small Group tour with an Archaeologist Pompeii Private Tour with an Archaeologist and Skip The Line Here are some tour options that will pick you up in Rome:  Private Tour: Pompeii and Sorrento from Rome Private Full-Day Pompeii Day Trip from Rome with Skip-the-Line Tickets
Travel Tip	Pompeii is HOT in the summer. It is a lot of rock and cement with no shade. So make sure to bring a hat, sunscreen, and other items to help you beat the heat!

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National Roman Museum and Diocletian Thermal Baths: ⭐️⭐️

National Roman Museum and Diocletian Thermal Baths
About	The Baths of Diocletian is one of ancient Rome's grandest thermal complexes. The complex was not only a place for bathing but also an entertainment hub, offering libraries, gardens, and athletic facilities.  Today, much of the original structure has been repurposed, with sections of the Baths transformed into the National Roman Museum, which houses an exceptional collection of art and artifacts from antiquity.
How to see the National Roman Museum and Diocletian Thermal Baths	A ticket from the official site will cost around $13, which you buy from the official site here..  If you’d like a live tour of the National Roman Museum and Diocletian Thermal Baths, here is a great one: Skip the Line: National Roman Museum and Diocletian Thermal Baths Walking Tour

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Hadrian's Villa: ⭐️⭐

Hadrian's Villa
About	Hadrian's Villa, situated in the picturesque Tivoli countryside, is an archaeological complex that once served as the retreat of Emperor Hadrian during the 2nd century AD.  Hadrian's Villa remains a captivating destination for those eager to explore the lavish lifestyle and visionary creativity of ancient Rome's elite.
How to see Hadrian's Villa	Going to Hadrian's Villa will be a half-day/full-day trip from Rome. It is about half an hour's drive from Rome.  You can buy a ticket from the official site here. It should be around $14.  Here are some tours that will pick you up in Rome: Tivoli Day Trip from Rome with Lunch Including Hadrian's Villa and Villa d'Este Private Full-day Tivoli Day Trip from Rome with Skip-the-Line Tickets

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Ostia Antica: ⭐️

Ostia Antica
About	Ostia Antica is an impeccably preserved archaeological site that offers a glimpse into the life of a thriving Roman harbor town.  For history enthusiasts and anyone seeking to step back in time, Ostia Antica serves as an open-air museum, showing off the vitality and sophistication of ancient Roman urban life.
How to see Ostia Antica	Visiting Ostia Antica will be a half-day from Rome.  Here is the official site for tickets to Ostia Antica. They should be around $20.  Here are some tours that will pick you up in Rome: Ostia Antica Tour from Rome  Ancient Ostia Antica Semi-Private Day Trip from Rome by Train with Guide Private Half-Day Ostia Antica Archaeological Site Day Trip from Rome
Travel Tip	If you do not have the time to go to Pompeii, Ostia Antica is a great alternative that is much closer to Rome and will give you a similar experience.

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What to do in Rome: Art and Culture

Vatican Museums: ⭐️⭐️⭐️

Vatican Museums
About	The Vatican Museums, a world-renowned treasure trove of art and history. The museums house an unparalleled array of art and artifacts, from classical sculptures to mummies. This is also how you can see the Sistine Chapel, with Michelangelo's ceiling frescoes.
How to see Vatican Museums	You can purchase tickets to see the Vatican Museums from their official site here for around $18.  Rick Steves Audio Europe app has a free guided audio tour of the Vatican Museums.  If you are interested in a live tour, here are some great options:  Small group Complete Early Morning Vatican Tour Early Entry Vatican Tour with Sistine Chapel and Skip-the-Line Tickets Small group Skip-the-Line Tour of the Vatican, Sistine Chapel & St. Peter's
Travel Tip	My #1 travel tip for Rome is to do the early access tour of the Vatican museums.  This is an attraction that can become PACKED with people. The early morning tour lets you see the museums and the Sistine Chapel practically empty.

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St. Peter's Basilica: ⭐️⭐️⭐️

St. Peter's Basilica
About	St. Peter's Basilica stands as one of the most iconic and revered religious sites in the world. Located in the heart of Vatican City, this extraordinary basilica is both a place of worship and a testament to the artistic genius of the Renaissance period.
How to see St. Peter's Basilica	It is free to visit St Peter's Basilica.  Rick Steves Audio Europe app has a free guided audio tour of the St Peter's Basilica.  Some tours for St Peter's Basilica will be combined with the Vatican Museums tours. Check out the tours listed in the Vatican Museums section to see some options.
Travel Tip	There are modesty requirements to enter St. Peter's Basilica. “Men and women are required to cover their knees and shoulders”, so that means no shorts, tank tops, or above-the-knee dresses/skirts.

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The Spanish Steps: ⭐️⭐️⭐️

The Spanish Steps
About	The Spanish Steps are an iconic feature of Rome's urban landscape. These steps have long been a gathering place for both locals and visitors.  The steps are a great place to relax, people-watch, and savor the vibrant atmosphere of one of Rome's most famous squares. The Piazza di Spagna at the base of the steps is home to high-end boutiques, making it a prime shopping destination.
How to see the Spanish Steps	The Spanish Steps are a public area. This is a perfect area to watch the sunset over the city.
Travel Tip	Rick Steves Audio Europe app has a great city walking tour called the “Heart of Rome” tour. This tour ends at the Spanish steps, so it’s a perfect way to spend the afternoon.

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Borghese Gallery: ⭐️⭐️

Borghese Gallery
About	The Borghese Gallery, or Galleria Borghese, hosts an immense art collection of the Borghese family, one of Rome's most influential noble families. The surrounding Villa Borghese gardens provide a natural escape after exploring the art
How to see the Borghese Gallery	The Borghese Gallery tickets are around $18. You can check out the official site to get tickets here.  If you’d like a live tour of the Borghese Gallery, here are some great options:  VIP Small Group Tour of Borghese Gallery with Tickets Skip-the-Line: Villa Borghese Gallery & Gardens Guided Tour

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Capitoline Museums: ⭐️⭐

Capitoline Museums
About	The Capitoline Museums house a collection of art and historical artifacts, spanning millennia of Roman history.  The renowned bronze statue of Emperor Marcus Aurelius set majestically in the center of the Piazza del Campidoglio, is just the beginning. The museum has a collection of classical sculptures, including the iconic Capitoline Wolf.
How to see the Capitoline Museums	Getting a ticket for the Capitoline Museums costs around $18. Here is the official site to purchase tickets.  If you’d like a live tour of the Capitoline Museums, here is a great option: Private Tour - Capitoline Museums

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Basilica of Santa Maria del Popolo: ⭐️

Basilica of Santa Maria del Popolo
About	The Basilica of Santa Maria del Popolo, a hidden gem tucked away in the heart of Rome, is a remarkable blend of art, history, and religious significance.  Santa Maria del Popolo is known for its stunning chapel, the Cappella Chigi, designed by the great Renaissance artist Raphael. Inside there is a collection of artwork, including masterpieces by Caravaggio.
How to see the Basilica of Santa Maria del Popolo	The Basilica of Santa Maria del Popolo is free to enter, but you’ll want a couple of euros on you to see the painting. You’ll need to pay to have lighting turned on to see the Caravaggio paintings.

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Victor Emmanuel Monument: ⭐️

Victor Emmanuel Monument
About	The Victor Emmanuel Monument was built in honor of the first King of a unified Italy. Visitors can take an elevator to the panoramic terrace on the roof of the monument, which offers breathtaking views of Rome. This elevated viewpoint provides an excellent vantage point for the historic Roman Forum, the Colosseum, and the Capitoline Hill.
How to see the Victor Emmanuel Monument	It costs around $13 to take the elevators up to the panoramic view.

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Church of San Giovanni in Laterano: ⭐️

Church of San Giovanni in Laterano
About	The Church of San Giovanni in Laterano, is a magnificent and historically significant place of worship situated in the heart of Rome. As the cathedral of the Diocese of Rome, it holds a unique position as the highest-ranking papal basilica in the city and is often referred to as the "Mother of All Churches." One of the highlights of the church is the Sancta Sanctorum, a small chapel that holds a collection of sacred relics and artwork.
How to see the Church of San Giovanni in Laterano	There is free admission to the Church of San Giovanni in Laterano.  There are a couple of great tours that will take you to multiple iconic churches in Rome including the Church of San Giovanni in Laterano:  Between Holy Doors tour Rome: Underground Temples & Crucifixion Relics Walking Tour

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What to do in Rome: Miscellaneous

The Roman Ghetto: ⭐️⭐️

The Roman Ghetto
About	The Roman Ghetto is a historic neighborhood in Rome, known for its rich Jewish heritage and enduring cultural legacy. Established in the 16th century, the Roman Ghetto is one of the oldest Jewish ghettos in the world and has played a vital role in the city's history. The Ghetto is a charming district with narrow cobblestone streets, traditional Jewish bakeries, and a vibrant atmosphere.
How to see the Roman Ghetto	Rick Steves’ Audio Europe app has an audio guide for this neighborhood. Here are some great tours of the Roman Ghetto: Jewish Ghetto and Navona Food Wine and Sightseeing Tour of Rome Jewish ghetto, Jewish museum and synagogues with Jewish Roman guide 3 hours

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Campo de' Fiori Market:⭐️⭐️

Campo de' Fiori Market
About	Campo de' Fiori is not only a vibrant and picturesque square in the heart of Rome but also home to one of the city's most famous markets. The Campo de' Fiori Market, whose name translates to "Field of Flowers," is a bustling and historic market that has been a focal point of Roman life for centuries.
How to see the Campo de' Fiori Market	The market takes place in the mornings from Monday to Saturday, and it's a lively hub of activity. Vendors set up their stalls to display a wide variety of products, from fresh produce, vegetables, and fruits to flowers, spices, and kitchenware. The market is known for its colorful and aromatic displays, making it a favorite spot for both locals and tourists to explore.

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Catacombs or the Capuchin Crypt: ⭐️

Catacombs or the Capuchin Crypt
About	The Roman Catacombs are an intricate network of underground burial sites located beneath the city of Rome. The catacombs served as underground cemeteries and were used primarily for Christian burials, although some contained Jewish and pagan burials as well.  The Capuchin Crypt, also known as the "Cappuccini Crypt," is a macabre yet compelling site located beneath the Santa Maria della Concezione dei Cappuccini church in Rome. This unique underground space is adorned with the skeletal remains of Capuchin friars.
How to see the Catacombs or the Capuchin Crypt	The most popular catacombs to visit is the Catacombs of Saint Callixtus. Admission to the Catacombs of Saint Callixtus is around $12. You can purchase tickets from the official site here.  The easiest way to see the Roman Catacombs is to take a tour. Here are some tour options for the catacombs:  Rome: Crypts and Roman Catacombs Guided Tour with Coach Transfers Small-Group Express Tour of Roman Catacombs with Transfer A Capuchin Crypt ticket will cost you around $11. You can purchase one from the official website here. Here is a tour option that has both the Catacombs and the Capuchin Crypt: Rome Catacombs & Capuchin Crypts Small-Group Tour with Transfers

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Aventine Keyhole: ⭐️

Aventine Keyhole
About	The Aventine Keyhole, located on Rome's Aventine Hill, is a hidden gem that offers a unique view of the city. This small and unassuming keyhole belongs to the Priory of the Knights of Malta, a historic order of chivalry. Peering through the keyhole's opening, you can see a great view of St. Peter's Basilica, which appears at the end of a perfectly manicured garden path.
How to see the Aventine Keyhole	Seeing the Aventine Keyhole is a free activity! You just need to head to Aventine Hill.

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I hope you find this list helpful!

Thanks for following along!

xoxo,

Syd