Best Things to Do In Your First Time in Rome

Last Updated: Aug 24, 2023
Reading Time: 18 minutes
By: Shaun

Rome is one of the most visited cities in the world for a reason. It is a city that combines history, culture, art, cuisine, and entertainment like no other. Whether you are interested in ancient ruins, Renaissance masterpieces, or a modern lifestyle, you will find something that suits your taste in Rome.

But with so much to see and do in the Eternal City, it can be overwhelming for first-time visitors to plan their trip. That’s why we have created this comprehensive guide on what to see, do, eat, and enjoy in Rome. We will cover everything from how to choose the best time to visit to accommodations, transportation, and more.

By following this guide, you will be able to make the most of your time in Rome and experience its beauty and charm like a local. So let’s get started!

How to Plan Your Trip to Rome

Roman Forum | Image by pascal OHLMANN on Pixabay

Before you pack your bags and hop on a plane to Rome, there are some things you need to consider and prepare for. Here are some of the most important aspects of planning your trip to Rome:

When to Visit Rome

Rome is a year-round destination, but your experience will depend on when you visit. The best time to visit Rome depends on your preferences and priorities. Here are some factors to consider:

Weather: Rome has a Mediterranean climate, which means it has hot and dry summers and mild and wet winters. The average temperature ranges from 8°C in January to 25°C in July. The hottest months are July and August, when the temperature can reach up to 35°C. The coldest months are December and January, when the temperature can hover around 0°C. The rainiest months are November and December, when the average rainfall is about 110 mm. The driest months are July and August, when the average rainfall is about 20 mm.
Crowds: Rome is a popular tourist destination, which means it can get very crowded during peak seasons. The busiest months are April, May, June, September, and October, when the weather is pleasant and many festivals and events take place. The quietest months are between November and February, when the weather is colder and fewer tourists choose to visit.
Events: Rome hosts many cultural and religious events throughout the year, which can add to your experience or cause inconvenience. Some of the ones to keep an eye on are Carnival, Easter, Christmas, Festa della Repubblica (June 2nd), and Festa della Liberazione (April 25th).

Considering the above factors, you can decide for yourself when it’s best to visit Rome, but generally speaking,

If you want to enjoy warm weather and a lively atmosphere, visit Rome in the spring (March–May) or autumn (September–November).
If you want to avoid crowds and save money, visit Rome in the winter (December–February).
If you don’t mind the heat and the crowds, visit Rome in the summer (June–August).

Where to Stay in Rome

Trastevere | Image by user32212 on Pixabay

Rome has many areas and neighbourhoods to choose where to stay. Depending on your budget, preferences, and convenience, you can find different types of accommodation in different parts of the city. The best areas and neighbourhoods to consider are:

Centro Storico: The historic centre of Rome covers most of the main attractions and landmarks. It is divided into several districts, such as Piazza Navona, Campo de’ Fiori, the Pantheon, the Trevi Fountain, the Spanish Steps, etc. It is ideal for sightseeing lovers who want to be close to everything. However, it is also the most expensive and crowded area, with limited parking options.
Trastevere: A charming and bohemian neighbourhood across the Tiber River that offers a more authentic and local feel. It is full of narrow streets, cobblestones, cafes, restaurants, bars, and shops. It is ideal for foodies, nightlife lovers, and culture seekers who want to experience the real Roman lifestyle. However, it can be noisy and crowded at night, and it is far from some attractions.
Monti: A trendy and hip neighbourhood near the Colosseum and the Roman Forum that mixes ancient and modern vibes. It is full of art galleries, vintage shops, boutiques, bistros, and pubs. It is ideal for creative and alternative travellers who want to discover a different side of Rome. However, it can be expensive and hard to find accommodation.
Prati: An elegant and upscale neighbourhood near the Vatican City and Castel Sant’Angelo that offers a more refined and quiet atmosphere. Prati is full of chic shops, restaurants, hotels, and offices and is ideal for luxury and business travellers who want to enjoy some comfort and convenience. However, some find it boring and lacking in character.
Testaccio: A lively and authentic neighbourhood south of the city centre that is famous for its food market, nightlife, and street art. As you can expect, it is full of local eateries, clubs, bars, and museums and is ideal for adventurous and fun-loving travellers who want to taste the real Roman cuisine and culture. However, it can be dirty and noisy.
Termini: A central and convenient neighbourhood near the main train station that offers easy access to public transportation and other parts of the city. It is full of budget hotels, hostels, guesthouses, and apartments, which is great for backpackers and budget travellers who want to save money and time or for those who want easy access to other towns and cities around Rome. However, it can be unsafe and unpleasant.

How to Get Around Rome

Sunset over Frascati | Image by ddzphoto on Pixabay

Rome is a large and sprawling city with many options for getting around. Depending on your destination, budget, and preference, you can use different modes of transportation in Rome. Here are some of the best ways to travel within Rome:

Public Transportation: Rome has a network of buses, trams, metros, trains, and taxis that covers most of the city. You can buy tickets at kiosks, news stands, or vending machines or use contactless payment methods such as credit cards or mobile apps. You can also buy passes that allow you to use unlimited public transportation for a certain period of time, such as 24 hours, 48 hours, 72 hours, or 7 days. The prices range from €1.50 for a single ticket to €24 for a 7-day pass. Public transportation is convenient, cheap, and eco-friendly, but it can also be crowded, slow, and unreliable.
Taxi: Rome has many licenced taxis that you can hail on the street, call by phone, or book online or through apps such as Free Now, Uber, or Bolt. Taxis are comfortable, fast, and easy to use, but they are also expensive, scarce, and prone to scams. You should always check the metre, the licence plate, and the receipt before paying. You should also avoid taxis that are parked outside tourist attractions or train stations, as they may charge higher rates or take longer routes. The average fare for a taxi ride in Rome is €15–€20.
Walking: Rome is a walkable city with many pedestrian zones, sidewalks, and bridges. Walking is the best way to explore the city at your own pace, admire the architecture, and discover hidden gems. While it can be healthy and enjoyable, it can also be tiring and time-consuming. Make sure you are always wearing comfortable shoes, carry a map or a smartphone with GPS, and watch out for traffic and pickpockets.
Bike: Rome has many bike rental shops and bike-sharing services that allow you to rent a bike for a few hours or a day. You can also join guided bike tours that take you to different parts of the city. Biking is fun, flexible, and adventurous, but it can also be dangerous, stressful, and exhausting. You should always wear a helmet, follow the traffic rules, and avoid busy roads and hills. The average cost for renting a bike in Rome is €10–€15 per day.
Bike: Rome has always had many Vespa rental shops that allow you to rent a scooter for a few hours or a day. You can also join guided Vespa tours that take you to different parts of the city. Riding a Vespa is fun, stylish, and iconic, but it can be challenging in the Roman traffic. You should always have a valid driver’s licence, insurance, and experience before riding a Vespa. Make sure you always wear a helmet, follow the traffic rules, and avoid busy roads and traffic jams. The average cost of renting a Vespa in Rome is €30–€40 per day.

What to See in Rome: The Top Attractions and Landmarks

Rome is a city that boasts thousands of years of history, culture, art, and architecture. It is home to some of the most famous and impressive attractions and landmarks in the world. You can spend days or even weeks exploring the city and still not see everything.

But if you are visiting Rome for the first time, there are some landmarks and attraction that you should not miss. Here are some of the top ones:

The Colosseum and the Roman Forum

Colosseum | Image by Diliff on Wikimedia Commons

The Colosseum and the Roman Forum are the most iconic and historical sites of ancient Rome. They are located in the heart of the city and are part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site list.

The Colosseum is the largest and most famous amphitheatre in the world. It was built in the first century AD by Emperor Vespasian and his son Titus. It could hold up to 80,000 spectators who watched gladiator fights, animal hunts, executions, and other spectacles.

Close by, you can also visit the Roman Forum, which is the ancient political, religious, and social centre of Rome. It was the place where temples, basilicas, arches, monuments, and statues were erected to honour gods, emperors, and heroes. It was also the place where speeches, trials, elections, and ceremonies took place.

To visit these sites, you need to buy tickets online or at the ticket office. The tickets are valid for both sites and for 24 hours from the first entry. The prices range from €16 for adults to €2 for EU citizens under 18 years old.

The Vatican City

Sistine Chapel | Image by Sistine Chapel on Pixabay

The Vatican City is the smallest country in the world and the seat of the Catholic Church. It is located within Rome but has its own borders and laws. It is also one of the most visited places in the world, as it hosts some of the most important and magnificent religious and artistic treasures.

The Sistine Chapel is one of these treasures. It is a chapel that was built in the 15th century by Pope Sixtus IV and decorated by some of the most renowned artists of the Renaissance, such as Michelangelo, Botticelli, and Perugino, amongst others. It is famous for its frescoes that cover the walls and ceiling, especially The Last Judgement by Michelangelo, which depicts the final destiny of humanity according to Christian doctrine.

Another site not to be missed is, of course, St. Peter’s Basilica, which is the largest and most important church in the world and where the Pope resides and gives his blessings. It is another UNESCO World Heritage Site, and its most famous feature is its dome, which was designed by Michelangelo. Its interior is also quite spectacular and contains many artworks, tombs, and sculptures, such as La Pietà.

St. Peter’s Basilica and the Sistine Chapel are open to visitors every day of the year, except for some religious holidays. Visitors must take care to dress appropriately. Shorts, skirts, and dresses should cover the knees and shoulders, and hats are not allowed. To make the most of your visits, it is recommended to arrive early in the morning or in the late afternoon to avoid crowds.

Trevi Fountain

Trevi Fountain | Image by Ademar Gomes on Flickr

Back in Rome, one other iconic landmark is the Trevi Fountain, which has captivated visitors for centuries with its awe-inspiring beauty and history. Located in the heart of Rome’s historic centre, this stunning Baroque fountain is a testament to the city’s artistic and architectural achievements.

The Trevi Fountain was first commissioned by Pope Clement XII in 1732 as part of a larger plan to renovate Rome’s water system. It was designed by Italian architect Nicola Salvi, who won a public competition for the project.

One thing many visitors do at the fountain is to toss a coin into the water. According to legend, if you toss a coin over your left shoulder with your right hand and make a wish, you will ensure your return to Rome. It is a fun tradition that has been passed down for centuries and a great way to feel connected to the fountain’s rich history and cultural significance. If you are wondering where the money ends up, the coins are regularly collected and donated to charity.

The Spanish Steps

Spanish Steps | Image by Petra on Pixabay

Another iconic landmark is, without a doubt, the Spanish Steps. This staircase features 135 steps made of beautiful white travertine stone and connects Piazza di Spagna at the base to the Trinità dei Monti church at the top.

Piazza di Spagna is a bustling square with many shops, cafes, and restaurants. It is also home to the famous Babington’s Tea Room, which is a must-visit for anyone who loves tea.

The Spanish Steps have been featured in several movies over the years, including Roman Holiday (1953) and The Talented Mr. Ripley (1999). It is also referenced in the song Spanish Steps by Van Morrison and in several books, like The Innocents Abroad by Mark Twain and The Roman Spring of Mrs. Stone by Tennessee Williams.

The Pantheon

Pantheon | Image by krystianwin on Pixabay

Another site you cannot miss when in Rome is the Pantheon, which is an ancient temple that has been standing for over 2000 years.

The most impressive feature of the Pantheon is by far its dome, which has a diameter of 43.3 metres (142 feet) and is the largest unsupported dome in the world. The construction was made possible by the use of lightweight materials and a clever design that evenly distributed the weight of the dome on the side of the building.

When you visit the Pantheon, you will be struck by the sense of grandeur that surrounds the building, as every aspect of the building is designed to inspire awe and wonder.

Castel Sant’Angelo

Castel Sant'Angelo | Image by Thomas Wolf on Wikimedia Commons

Castel Sant’Angelo is a fortress and museum that was built in the 2nd century AD by Emperor Hadrian as a mausoleum for himself and his family. It was later converted into a papal residence, a prison, and a military barracks.

It is located just outside Vatican City and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is famous for its cylindrical shape, its bridge with angel statues, and its rooftop terrace with amazing panoramic views of the city.

What to Do in Rome: The Best Activities and Experiences

Rome is not only a city that offers amazing sights and landmarks but also a city that offers exciting activities and experiences. You can do many things in Rome that will make your trip more memorable and enjoyable. Here are some of the best ones:

Eat Like a Local

Carbonara | Image by Wow Phochiangrak on Pixabay

Rome is a paradise for food lovers, as it offers a variety of dishes and delicacies that reflect its rich and diverse culinary heritage. You can try some of the best pizza, pasta, and much more in Rome, as well as some of the specialties that are unique to the city, such as:

Pizza al taglio: A rectangular pizza that is sold by the slice. You can choose from different toppings, such as cheese, tomato, ham, mushrooms, etc. You can find many outlets that sell it as is a great option for a quick snack.
Carbonara: A creamy pasta dish that is made with eggs, cheese, guanciale (cured pork jowl), and black pepper. It is one of the most famous and delicious Roman dishes and you can find it in many restaurants and trattorias around the city.
Cacio e pepe: A simple but tasty pasta dish that is made with cheese and black pepper. It is one of the oldest and most traditional Roman dishes.
Supplì: A fried rice ball that is stuffed with cheese and tomato sauce. It a very popular popular and addictive street food very popular with the locals.
Gelato: A frozen dessert that is made with milk, cream, sugar, and natural flavours. It is one of the most refreshing and satisfying treats sold by the many gelaterias in Rome.

Explore the Art and Culture

Villa Borghese | Image by Emanuele on Flickr

Rome is a treasure trove of art and culture, as it hosts some of the most important and magnificent museums and galleries in the world. You can visit some of the best ones in Rome, such as:

The Vatican Museums: A complex of museums that display some of the finest artworks from the Vatican collections. They include paintings, sculptures, tapestries, maps, mosaics, and more. They also include the Sistine Chapel, which we have already mentioned.
The Borghese Gallery: A museum that displays some of the finest artworks from the Borghese collection. They include paintings, sculptures, and furniture by artists such as Caravaggio, Bernini, Titian, Raphael, and more. The gallery is within the Borghese Gardens, which are the largest and probably the most beautiful public park in Rome.
The Capitoline Museums: A series of museums that display some of the finest artworks from the Capitoline collection. They include artefacts from artists such as Rubens, Caravaggio, and Vermeer, as well as the famous she-wolf statue of Romulus and Remus, the founders of Rome. The museums take their name from Capitoline Hill, which is the highest and most sacred hill in Rome. It is famous for its piazza, designed by Michelangelo, and its statues, such as the equestrian statue of Marcus Aurelius.

Enjoy the Nightlife

Like many other cities, Rome is a city that never sleeps, as it has a very vibrant and diverse nightlife scene. You can find some of the best bars and clubs in Rome that cater to different tastes and moods. Here are some of the best ones:

Market Stand at Campo de' Fiori | Image by Daniel Ventura on Wikimedia Commons

Campo de’ Fiori: A lively and colourful square that is surrounded by many bars, pubs, cafes, and restaurants that offer drinks, snacks, music, and entertainment. It is ideal for socialising, mingling, and partying with locals and tourists alike. It is also famous for its market, which sells fresh fruits, vegetables, flowers, and more during the day.
Trastevere: A charming and bohemian neighbourhood that we have already mentioned before. It is full of narrow streets, cobblestones, cafes, restaurants, bars, and shops. It is ideal for enjoying a romantic, cosy, and authentic atmosphere. It is also famous for its churches, such as Santa Maria in Trastevere, which has a beautiful mosaic facade.
Testaccio: A lively and authentic neighbourhood that we have already mentioned is full of local eateries, clubs, bars, and museums. It is the perfect place to take in the real Roman cuisine and culture. It is also famous for its nightlife scene, which attracts many young people who want to dance, drink, and have fun until dawn.

Take a Day Trip

Villa D'Este | Image by Waldo Miguez from Pixabay

Rome is a city that has so much to offer, but it is also a city that is close to many other destinations and attractions that are worth visiting. You can take a day trip from Rome to explore some of the best places in Italy and beyond, such as:

Ostia Antica: An ancient Roman port city that was abandoned and preserved by the sand. It is located about 30 km from Rome and can be reached by train or bus. It is famous for its ruins, such as the theatre, the baths, the temples, and the houses. It is ideal for history and archaeology lovers who want to see a glimpse of Roman life and culture. To visit this site, you need to buy tickets online or at the ticket office.
Tivoli: A picturesque town that is famous for its villas, gardens, and fountains. It is located about 30 km from Rome and can be reached by train or bus. It is famous for its UNESCO World Heritage Sites, such as Villa d’Este, Villa Adriana, and Villa Gregoriana. They are examples of Renaissance and Baroque architecture and landscape design. They are ideal for nature and art lovers who want to enjoy some beauty and tranquilly.
Pompeii: An ancient Roman city that was buried and preserved by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD. It is located about 250 km from Rome, close by the city of Naples, and can be reached by train or bus. It is famous for its ruins, such as the forum, the amphitheatre, the temples, and the houses. It is a must-visit for any history buffs out there or anyone remotely interested in taking a glimpse of ancient Roman life and culture.

Conclusion

Rome is one of the most amazing cities in the world and deserves to be visited at least once in a lifetime. It is a city that combines history, culture, art, cuisine, and entertainment like no other. Whether you are interested in ancient ruins, Renaissance masterpieces, or a modern lifestyle, you will find something that suits your taste in Rome. But with so much to see and do in Rome, it can be overwhelming for first-time visitors to plan their trip. That’s why we have created this comprehensive guide on what to see, do, eat, and enjoy in Rome.

By following this guide, you will be able to make the most of your time in Rome and experience its beauty and charm like a local. So what are you waiting for? Book your trip to Rome today and get ready for an unforgettable adventure!

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time of year to visit Rome?

The best time to visit Rome is from April to June or September to October, when the weather is mild and the crowds are smaller.

Do I need to book tickets in advance to visit any of the sites?

Yes, it's recommended to book tickets in advance to avoid long lines and ensure entry.

What should I wear when visiting Rome?

Rome is a fashion-forward city, so it's a good idea to dress nicely. Avoid wearing shorts and tank tops when visiting churches and other religious sites. Comfortable walking shoes are also recommended, as there is a lot of walking involved when exploring Rome.

How long should I spend in Rome?

It's recommended to spend at least three days in Rome to see the main attractions, but a week or more would allow you to explore the city more leisurely.

Why is Rome also known as the Eternal City?

Rome is known as the "Eternal City" because the Romans believed that no matter what happened to the world or the Roman empire, Rome would always endure.

How much money do I need to visit Rome?

Rome is a relatively expensive city that requires a moderate to high budget. The amount of money you need to visit Rome depends on your travel style and choices. Generally speaking, you need at least €100 per day per person to cover the basic expenses, such as accommodation, transportation, food, and entrance fees. You can also spend more or less, depending on your preferences and priorities.