Things to Experience in Rome at Least Once

You might have heard the quote “when in Rome, do as the Romans do,” but what experiences actually tell you about Roman history and everyday life: is it eating gelato outside a church that predates most countries or exploring around random streets where every turn means walking alongside a two-thousand-year-old wall?

Whether you're chasing history, food, or a quiet evening by the Tiber, there are countless things to do in Rome that suit every kind of traveller.  This guide walks you through the famous places you can't miss to quieter areas fewer travellers know about, so you can come back from Rome and say you lived as the Romans do.

What Are the Top Things to Do in Rome for First-Time Visitors?

If it's your first time in the city, a handful of landmarks have shaped Rome's identity and still can't be skipped:

These five make up the bulk of the top things to do in Rome, and honestly, they earn the hype. Book Colosseum and Vatican tickets ahead of time, since queues can eat up a good chunk of your day otherwise.

Tribe Travel Tip: A combined Colosseum-Forum-Palatine Hill ticket saves both money and time compared to buying entries separately.

What Are Some Things to Do in Rome, Italy Away From the Crowds?

Once you've covered the big names, Rome rewards those who wander a little further. Several neighbourhoods and corners of the city stay quiet even during peak season, and they often feel more authentic.

• Aventine Keyhole: Peek through this famous keyhole for a perfectly framed view of St. Peter's Basilica dome.
• Testaccio Market: A local food market where Romans actually shop, far from tourist menus.
• Quartiere Coppedè: A small, fairy-tale style architectural pocket most visitors never find.
• Centrale Montemartini: Ancient sculptures displayed inside a former power plant, an unusual pairing that works surprisingly well.
• Catacombs of Priscilla: Quieter and less crowded than the more famous Appian Way catacombs.

These things to do in Rome, Italy give you a break from the crowds while still keeping the city's character front and centre. Trastevere's back alleys, away from the main piazza, are also worth a slow walk.

What Adventurous Things Can You Try in Rome?

Rome isn't only about standing in queues and admiring ruins. If you know where to look, the city and its surroundings offer plenty of adventure.

• Bike the Appian Way: Rent a bike and ride along one of the oldest roads in the world, past ancient tombs and pine-lined stretches.
• Underground catacomb tours: Descend into narrow tunnels beneath the city on the Via Appia.
• Kayak the Tiber River: A less common way to see Rome's bridges and skyline from water level.
• Day trip to Ostia Antica: Explore a preserved ancient port town, often called a mini Pompeii, with far fewer visitors.
• Cooking class in Trastevere: Learn to make fresh pasta from scratch with a local chef.

Adventurous things to do in Rome don't need to mean extreme sports. Sometimes it's simply choosing the path fewer people take, whether that's a bike ride past ruins or a kayak paddle under bridges that have stood for centuries.

What Are the Best Things to Do in Rome at Night?

Rome changes character once the sun goes down. The crowds thin out at the major sites, and the city takes on a softer, quieter glow.

There's a good reason so many travellers rank things to do in Rome at night as their favourite part of the vacation. The city feels calmer, and photographs come out better without the daytime rush.

Tribe Travel Tip: Piazza Navona and Campo de' Fiori are within walking distance of each other so that you can cover both in one relaxed evening.

What Romantic Things Can Couples Do in Rome?

For couples, Rome offers plenty of quiet, unhurried moments that don't require much planning to feel special.

• Sunset at Pincio Terrace: Overlooks Piazza del Popolo and the domes of the old city.
• Dinner in Trastevere: Candlelit tables along cobbled lanes make for an easy, unforced evening.
• Boat ride on the Tiber: A slower, quieter way to see the city lights reflect on water.
• Wine tasting near Campo de' Fiori: Small enotecas tucked into side streets, perfect for a couple of hours together.
• Moonlit walk to the Spanish Steps: Far less crowded after 10 PM, with a peaceful view over the city.

Romantic things to do in Rome rarely need a reservation months in advance. Much of the magic comes from slowing down and letting the city set the pace.

How Should You Plan Your Days in Rome?

How much time you give the city depends on what you want out of your vacation. Here's a rough breakdown to help you decide:

Three days is enough to see the essentials, but five to seven gives you room to enjoy Rome without rushing from sight to sight. If your schedule allows it, the extra days are usually worth it.

Also read: Places to Visit in Rome

Conclusion

You could visit Rome for the first time or go there for the fifth, and you will always find a side of it that you haven't discovered before. Visit the famous places, then spend time on the streets of Rome and experience what life is like in an ancient city. No matter what you are into, whether that’s history, food or culture, there will always be things to do in Rome that will be of interest to you.

If you’re planning a visit to this historic city, Holiday Tribe can help plan a Rome holiday complete with itineraries, stays, transfers, and optional flight and visa assistance. Get in touch to book your vacation today!