The Ultimate Rome Bucket List: Things You Shouldn’t Miss
Rome is one of those cities where you can spend a week exploring and still feel like you have only scratched the surface. There are the famous landmarks everyone comes to see, but also beautiful streets, lively neighborhoods, viewpoints and simple experiences that make the city feel truly Roman. If it’s your first time in Rome, these are some of the experiences I would put on your Rome bucket list:
Don’t Try to See Everything
- Rome has too much to see in one trip. Instead of rushing from one attraction to another, choose what matters most to you, group nearby sights together and leave some time to eat, have coffee and simply enjoy the city.
- If you want to make the most of your time without spending hours researching what to see, when to visit and how to organize everything, a personalized Rome itinerary can take care of the planning for you.
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See the Colosseum and Ancient Rome
You can’t come to Rome for the first time and skip the Colosseum. Make time for the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill too — they are right next to it and give you a much better idea of what ancient Rome looked like.
Visit Vatican City
Vatican City is one of those places you should experience at least once. Visit St. Peter’s Basilica and, if you have time, climb the dome for one of the best views over Rome.
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Throw a Coin in the Trevi Fountain
Yes, it’s touristy, but the Trevi Fountain really is worth seeing. Visit early in the morning or later in the evening for a different atmosphere — and don’t forget the coin-throwing tradition.
Walk Through Piazza Navona
Piazza Navona is one of Rome’s most beautiful squares. Take a walk around the fountains, admire the Baroque architecture and stop for a few minutes to enjoy the atmosphere.
Step Inside the Pantheon
The Pantheon is easy to pass by while exploring the historic center, but make sure you step inside. The enormous dome and famous oculus make it one of the most impressive ancient buildings in Rome.
Explore Trastevere
With its narrow cobblestone streets, old buildings and lively piazzas, Trastevere is one of the neighborhoods worth exploring in Rome. Come during the day or stay into the evening when the area becomes especially lively.
See Rome From Above
Rome looks completely different from above. From the Gianicolo and Pincio to the dome of St. Peter’s Basilica, there are several great places to enjoy the city from a different perspective.
Explore Rome’s Neighborhoods
Rome is much more than its historic center. Spend some time exploring neighborhoods such as Monti and Testaccio to see a more local side of the city.
Visit Rome’s Beautiful Churches
Rome is full of beautiful churches, from enormous basilicas to small churches hidden along ordinary-looking streets. Many are free to enter and easy to visit while exploring the city.
Have a Roman Coffee
Coffee is part of everyday life in Rome. Stop at a traditional bar, order an espresso and take a few minutes to experience one of the city’s simplest everyday rituals.
Eat the Roman Classics
Carbonara, cacio e pepe, amatriciana, supplì and gelato are all part of experiencing Rome. You don’t need a fancy restaurant to enjoy them — some of the best Roman food can be found in simple local trattorias.
Have a Roman Gelato
You can’t leave Rome without trying gelato. Look for a good gelateria, try a classic flavor or two, and enjoy it while walking through the city. It’s one of those simple Rome experiences you’ll probably remember.
Visit a Roman Market
Markets are a great way to see a more everyday side of Rome. Campo de’ Fiori is the most famous, while markets in neighborhoods such as Testaccio can feel more local.
Watch the Sunset in Rome
Rome is beautiful at sunset. Find a viewpoint, piazza or quiet street, slow down and enjoy the city as the light changes.
Take a Night Walk Through Rome
Rome is especially atmospheric after dark. The historic center, fountains and piazzas all look different at night, and an evening walk is a simple way to experience the city.