Top 58 Things To Do in Rome 2018 - Best Activities in Rome

Rome's Keyhole

A pleasant surprise

Rome's Keyhole

37

This is one of those strange things that you have to do at least once. Even if you come back time and time again, it never ceases to impress. Set in the gate of the Knights of Malta headquarters you’ll find a keyhole offering a magnificent furtive peep of St. Peter’s Basilica. Read more ›

by Francesca

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Ponte Milvio Market

Things To Do 20 6

By Francesca

Antique market on the river

Ponte Milvio Market

20

Ponte Milvio Market is one of the best ways to enjoy the Tevere River during the daytime. Located beside the river, it’s a place where antique lovers come to take a pleasant stroll under the chestnut trees while browsing a great selection of antique furniture and other objects. Read more ›

by Francesca

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Borromini's Perspective

Things To Do 16 3

By Francesca

A perspective trick

Borromini's Perspective

16

This is one of Rome’s weirdest and most unique hidden gems. When strolling in the city centre, look out onto Galleria Spada – the magic of Borromini’s masterpiece will hit you unexpectedly. It’s really something everyone should see at least once. Read more ›

by Francesca

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Giardino degli Aranci

Things To Do 16 5

By Francesca

A terrace set amongst oranges trees

Giardino degli Aranci

16

Giardino degli Aranci (“Orange Garden”) is a little slice of Eden. It’s a romantic and relaxing spot perfect for lovers as well as for those who simply want to spend some time alone. From the small terrace surrounded by orange trees you can look down over the city and regain a bit of peace. Read more ›

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Appia Antica Regional Park

Things To Do 15 3

By Francesca

A park brimming with Roman ruins

Appia Antica Regional Park

15

A trip to Appian Way is one of the greatest experiences to be had in Rome, especially on a sunny Sunday. This ancient road is located in the Appian Antica Regional Park. Here you can enjoy a unique landscape of green parkland dotted with ancient Roman ruins. Read more ›

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Pantheon

Things To Do 14 3

By Francesca

The temple with the hole

Pantheon

14

As it’s located in the heart of Rome, the Pantheon is a place that locals regularly pass by. Sometimes we need step inside to once again be amazed by its fabulous architecture. “Have you ever seen a building with a hole in its ceiling?” is a local joke. Read more ›

by Francesca

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Rione Monti

Things To Do 14 4

By Francesca

Hip shopping & drinking spot

Rione Monti

14

Rione Monti is a trendy neighbourhood that attracts a young and creative crowd. Locals like to walk here in the afternoons and shop in alternative boutiques before heading out for aperitifs once the sun has gone down. From 8 pm onwards, especially on weekends, the square transforms into a vibrant meeting place for hip and stylish people. Read more ›

by Francesca

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Villa Borghese & Pincio

Things To Do 12 1

By Francesca

Historical park in the city centre

Villa Borghese & Pincio

12

Located in the heart of Rome, Villa Borghese is one of the largest public parks in the city. Locals often come here on weekends to walk or cycle. It attracts families as well as couples with its romantic atmosphere. Read more ›

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San Luigi dei Francesi

Things To Do 11 3

By Francesca

See Caravaggio for free

San Luigi dei Francesi

11

It’s no secret that Rome is home to innumerable churches, however this one is particularly special as there are several masterpieces hidden within. When strolling near the Pantheon and Piazza Navona, it’s worth visiting this church to admire artworks by Caravaggio...for free! Read more ›

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Galleria Borghese

Things To Do 11 1

By Francesca

The museum of masterpieces

Galleria Borghese

11

This is one of the greatest museums in the world and a must-see for locals and visitors alike. It’s located in the fabulous Villa Borghese park and has a wonderful inner garden itself. Visiting this museum is like taking a trip through the history of art. Read more ›

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Via dei Coronari

Things To Do 11 0

By Francesca

Rome's antique row

Via dei Coronari

11

Strolling along Via dei Coronari is always exciting when you’re looking for some creative inspiration. Located right behind Piazza Navona, it’s a peaceful street brimming with antique stores. Here you can find a unique selection of antique furniture and design objects. Read more ›

by Francesca

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Quartiere Coppedè

Things To Do 11 3

By Francesca

Art nouveau neighbourhood

Quartiere Coppedè

11

A big arch leads you into this marvellous little residential quarter hidden in the Parioli neighbourhood. Elegant, romantic and quiet, Quartiere Coppedé is an unexpected and bizarre area perfect for a dreamy stroll. Read more ›

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Musei Vaticani & the Sistine Chapel

Things To Do 10 3

By Francesca

When in Rome…

Musei Vaticani & the Sistine Chapel

10

Musei Vaticani is one of Rome’s most precious treasures and, unsurprisingly, one of the city’s top tourist attractions. Locals only visit the museums once or twice in a lifetime, so don’t expect to meet us there. Nevertheless, Musei Vaticani and its Sistine Chapel are must-see sights when in Rome. Read more ›

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Cripta dei Cappuccini

Things To Do 10 1

By Francesca

A macabre surprise

Cripta dei Cappuccini

10

This would have to be one of the weirdest places in the world. Although it’s relatively unknown amongst locals, it’s a favourite spot for those who enjoy all things macabre, sacred and scary. There are bones piled high amongst countless others, bones nailed to the walls in intricate patterns and some even hanging from the ceiling as light fixtures. Read more ›

by Francesca

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Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore

Things To Do 9 1

By Paola

Santa Maria Maggiore

Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore

9

One of many fabulous churches in Rome - one of the 4 main basilicas. Magnificent internally with beautiful artworks. It is the largest Catholic Marian church in Rome. This is awe inspiring and fascinating: when you look at all the paintings and the craftmanship of this building, you are just blown away with its appearance. Read more ›

by Paola

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Gianicolo

Things To Do 9 4

By Francesca

Puppet show & breathtaking panorama

Gianicolo

9

The puppet show at Gianicolo Belvedere is a tradition for every family in Rome. All Roman children have been brought here by their parents at least once in their lifetime. It’s a funny and cheerful experience for children and children at heart. Read more ›

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MAXXI

Things To Do 8 1

By Francesca

Contemporary art & architecture

MAXXI

8

When MAXXI opened in 2010, Rome’s youth was renewed. Before this time the city had no contemporary buildings or museums. This is a place where you can visit contemporary art and architecture exhibitions as well as other hyped events. Read more ›

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Macro

Things To Do 7 0

By Francesca

Rome's museum of contemporary art

Macro

7

In 2011 this majestic building was transformed into a big museum for contemporary art. Come here for the modern art exhibitions or to simply enjoy a coffee at the hyped bar, or a meal at the fashionable restaurant. Read more ›

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Casa dell'Architettura

Things To Do 7 0

By Francesca

Architecture & street art museum

Casa dell'Architettura

7

Some years ago the Roman Aquarium was restored after a period of abandonment – now it’s the new location for the House of Architecture. This museum hosts architecture exhibitions, lectures and concerts. It’s also home to the -1 Art Gallery where top street artists are involved with the customisation of the building's basement. Read more ›

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Wunderkammern

Things To Do 6 1

By Francesca

Street art gallery

Wunderkammern

6

The Wunderkammern contemporary art gallery is a favourite amongst local artists and young people. Located in the Tor Pignattara neighbourhood (an extension of the creative Pigneto district), it hosts up-to-date exhibitions by Italian as well as international artists. Read more ›

by Francesca

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Verano Cemetery

Things To Do 6 0

By Francesca

A monumental cemetery

Verano Cemetery

6

Verano is Rome’s main cemetery. It’s also the oldest and most central one. Not many locals visit this monumental spot, even though it is indeed rich with monuments. It’s a peaceful place to walk when you feel like escaping the stressful San Lorenzo neighbourhood. Read more ›

by Francesca

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Macro Testaccio

Things To Do 6 1

By Francesca

A contemporary art space

Macro Testaccio

6

Macro Testaccio is located in the heart of Testaccio, one of the liveliest neighbourhoods for nightlife lovers. This might explain why it’s open from 4 pm until midnight. A branch of Macro, Rome’s Museum of Contemporary Art, it hosts modern art exhibitions, installations and a range of art-related events. Read more ›

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Palazzo della Civiltà e del Lavoro

Things To Do 5 2

By Paola

A modern take on the Colosseum

Palazzo della Civiltà e del Lavoro

5

The building called Palazzo della Civiltà del Lavoro or simply the Colosseo Quadrato (Square Colosseum), is an icon of Fascist architecture. It's a different kind of architecture in Rome, as the whole EUR area, it's like being in a different city. Read more ›

by Paola

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Palazzo delle Esposizioni

Things To Do 5 0

By Francesca

Exhibition space & culture centre

Palazzo delle Esposizioni

5

Situated in a recently renovated historic building, the beautiful Palazzo delle Espozizioni is known amongst locals for hosting some of the best exhibitions in town. Sometimes they also have cinema evenings where you can watch cult films that aren’t screened anywhere else. Read more ›

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GNAM

Things To Do 5 2

By Francesca

National gallery of modern art

GNAM

5

GNAM (Galleria Nazionale d'Arte Moderna) is the national gallery of modern art. It has many rooms containing a wealth of contemporary masterpieces. It takes a long time to see all of the collections so locals usually come here for the temporary exhibitions. Read more ›

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Fraschette

Things To Do 5 0

By Francesca

A trip to a traditional Roman tavern

Fraschette

5

"Let's go to Ariccia's fraschetta!" This is one of the things Romans like to do most with friends. When you’re looking for somewhere easy and cheap with good local wine and food such as porchetta (a tender boneless pork roast), olives and cheese, a trip to a traditional tavern is a good choice. Read more ›

by Francesca

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Villa Torlonia

Things To Do 5 2

By Francesca

Art Nouveau & nature

Villa Torlonia

5

Villa Torlonia is an elegant and quiet park with refined paths, palms, aviaries and beautiful Art Nouveau buildings. Step inside this recently renovated gem for a trip back to the 1920s. It’s a great place for peaceful walks, jogging and playing with children. Read more ›

by Francesca

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Auditorium Parco della Musica

Things To Do 5 0

By Francesca

The concert hall of Rome

Auditorium Parco della Musica

5

If you’re looking to attend a great concert, come here – it’s THE concert hall of Rome. The programme is varied: there’s symphony, chamber, jazz, pop, rock and world music and more. It also hosts stage plays, contemporary art exhibitions and all manner of festivals including literature, garden design and film to name a few. Read more ›

by Francesca

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Il Museo Del Louvre

Things To Do 4 1

By Gamze

Art and Photography lovers' secret

Il Museo Del Louvre

4

This little shop is dedicated entirely photography. If you are an art/photography lover, you should go and have a look. It is in Jewish Ghetto, in a narrow street. Sometimes they make some photography exhibitions. A true gem! Believe me, you will be impressed. Read more ›

by Gamze

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Barattolo

Things To Do 4 0

By francesca

Every food wonder trapped in a jar

Barattolo

4

Jazz music and 4 varieties of REAL Tiramisù, everything served in Jars. The bartender is a rare expert and he mixes cocktails according to your taste and demand. He distills the spirit himself so cocktails are strong but taste as flowing like water. Read more ›

by francesca

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Villa Medici - Accademia di Francia a Roma

Things To Do 4 1

By Paola

One of the most beautiful villas of Rome

Villa Medici - Accademia di Francia a Roma

4

The Académie de France better known as well as "Villa Medici" is located at the top of the Spanish Steps on the Pincian hill. It's a cultural centre originally created by Louis XIV to enable French artists to live in the city, gain inspiration from their surroundings, and develop their crafts. Read more ›

by Paola

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National Gallery of Ancient Art of Barberini Palace

Things To Do 4 1

By Flavia

Borromini, Bernini, Caravaggio, oh my

National Gallery of Ancient Art of Barberini Palace

4

Writing about places like Palazzo Barberini makes me freeze up, because how can anybody ever do it justice? Some of the world's most famous pieces of art are housed here, in this ancient palace of incomparable beauty. And there's a secret garden; need I say more? Read more ›

by Flavia

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Via Margutta

Things To Do 4 0

By Francesca

A poetic street

Via Margutta

4

When you feel like skipping the chaos of Piazza di Spagna and Via del Corso, simply take a walk along the quiet Via Margutta. This narrow street takes you back in time to an era when Federico Fellini and Giulietta Masina called it home. Read more ›

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Forte Prenestino

Things To Do 4 1

By Francesca

Iconic social centre

Forte Prenestino

4

Forte Prenestino is a local institution. In the 80s it was known for its liberal political action, though nowadays it’s considered a cultural hub. They host many activities and events including parties, exhibitions, festivals, film forums, dance, music and theatre courses, and much more. Read more ›

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Bocca della Verità

Things To Do 4 0

By Francesca

“The Mouth of Truth”

Bocca della Verità

4

The fascinating thing about this sculpture is the legend behind it: the mouth bites off the hand of anyone not telling the truth. It doesn’t matter if you’re superstitious or religious – it’s something to try at least once. Read more ›

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The Catacombs of Rome

Things To Do 4 1

By Francesca

Sacred burial grounds beneath the city

The Catacombs of Rome

4

Venturing underground to visit the catacombs is an experience not to be missed. With narrow alleys, chapels, stairways and arches, it’s as if you’re walking through a mini subterranean city. These early burial grounds hold huge historical and religious significance, and while they’re a little bit macabre, they’re also amazing. Read more ›

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Villa Doria Pamphili

Things To Do 4 4

By Francesca

The biggest park in Rome

Villa Doria Pamphili

4

Villa Pamphili is one of the best places to visit on a sunny day. It's a huge park where locals come to walk, jog, cycle and play football, especially on weekends. Depending on your mood, you can either find a secret corner or share a big grassy patch with others. Read more ›

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The downhill rise

Things To Do 4 0

By Francesca

A mysterious spot

The downhill rise

4

Just a few kilometres from Rome in the Castelli Romani area, there’s a strange slope where gravity doesn’t seem to work. Everything you put on the ground rises instead of rolling down! Read more ›

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The gardens of Rome's Japanese Cultural Institute

Things To Do 3 1

By Paola

A corner of Japan in Rome

The gardens of Rome's Japanese Cultural Institute

3

Italy is home to some amazing "giardini all’italiana" but if you're visiting Rome and one day you feel like taking a break from this kind of aesthetic and want to immerse yourself in a very different interpretation of outside space, you might enjoy a visit to the Japanese garden of the Japanese Cultural Institute. Read more ›

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Bioparco di Roma

Things To Do 3 1

By Francesca

Rome's zoo

Bioparco di Roma

3

A visit to Bioparco is a beautiful experience for kids of all ages. It’s a big park home to a wide variety of animals from five continents. Read more ›

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Gagosian Gallery

Things To Do 3 1

By Francesca

International art gallery

Gagosian Gallery

3

After establishing art spaces in New York, Los Angeles, Paris and London, owner and king of contemporary art Larry Gagosian selected Rome as the newest site for his global network of galleries. This is where you’ll find the city’s contemporary art elite, as well as the usual wannabes. Read more ›

by Francesca

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Villa Ada

Things To Do 3 0

By Francesca

A peaceful public park

Villa Ada

3

Villa Ada is the favourite public park of locals living in northern Rome. People come to this big and peaceful oasis to walk, jog and play with their children. It’s especially popular on sunny weekends. Read more ›

by Francesca

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Casa del Jazz

Things To Do 3 0

By Francesca

The house of jazz

Casa del Jazz

3

Casa del Jazz is a temple for jazz lovers. They host concerts as well as cultural and educational events with the aim of promoting and developing all styles of the genre. Unlike typical jazz clubs, it’s not a commercial endeavour so they have more freedom when it comes to selecting performers. Read more ›

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Chiostro del Bramante

Things To Do 3 0

By Francesca

A courtyard & museum

Chiostro del Bramante

3

Chiostro del Bramante is a peaceful oasis located just two steps away from the famous Piazza Navona. Locals come here for art exhibitions, to wander through the ancient columns, to have a break at the café or to visit the bookshop. Read more ›

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Cinecittà Studios

Things To Do 3 0

By Francesca

Legendary film studios

Cinecittà Studios

3

Cinecittà stands for the cinema greats of the past – Fellini first of all... It’s a big and poetic village where visitors can take dreamy walks along the paths and in the studios that formed the history of the “seventh art”. This is the place to experience the magic of cinema. Read more ›

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The race club

Things To Do 2 0

By Alessandra

Speakeasy Top

The race club

2

If you are looking for a place where to relax, enjoy a unique atmosphere and sip the best cocktails in town then you must head to The Race Club. It is a speakeasy bar concept and they take it very seriously: furniture and lighting are rigorously reproducing the 20s, 30s style and even cocktails are inspired by the authentic recipes. Read more ›

by Alessandra

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Parco degli Acquedotti

Things To Do 2 0

By francesca

Do come back to the Roman Times!

Parco degli Acquedotti

2

Because you feel you are inside the history. This place is full of energy and you can smell and see how ancient Roman time is interacting with today's Roman life. It is a huge city park crossed by two aqueducts, a small lake and fruit trees. Read more ›

by francesca

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Benito Mussolini's bunker

Things To Do 2 1

By Paola

Secret World War II Bunker

Benito Mussolini's bunker

2

This Bunker is hidden under one of the most beautiful Villas (and gardens) in Rome: Villa Torlonia, a popular public park where Romans gather to picnic, jog or just walk around. Between 1925-1943, Mussolini lived here with his family and he built underground chambers to protect himself from possible air raids and gas attacks. Read more ›

by Paola

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Abbazia delle Tre Fontane

Things To Do 2 0

By Paola

Hidden peaceful Abbey

Abbazia delle Tre Fontane

2

It is a very peaceful spot; not everyone have time to visit this site because it is not centrally placed, but it's a gem in Rome. The Abbey complex is currently held by the Trappist Fathers of the Cistercian Order. In May 2015, Tre Fontane became the 11th Trappist monastery to produce and sell trappist beer. Read more ›

by Paola

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Centrale Montemartini Museum

Things To Do 2 0

By Paola

Not a standard museum

Centrale Montemartini Museum

2

This museum was a former power plant and today is converted into an art gallery that houses a collection of sculptures, tombs and mosaics from Ancient Rome, displayed amongst giant boilers and turbines that used to produce Rome's electric power. Read more ›

by Paola

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Borgo Pio

Things To Do 2 1

By Francesca

Quiet neighbourhood behind the Vatican

Borgo Pio

2

Borgo Pio is a nice spot for a quiet walk when visiting the Vatican. This small neighbourhood retains its own unique character even though it’s located behind the touristic St. Peter's Basilica and the commercial shopping street of Via Cola di Rienzo. Read more ›

by Francesca

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Globe Theatre

Things To Do 2 2

By Francesca

An open-air theatre in Villa Borghese

Globe Theatre

2

Experience the magic of the theatre in the heart of the elegant Villa Borghese public park. It’s a great place to spend a night out in summer. Imagine watching a Shakespearean play in an Elizabethan theatre in a beautiful park setting! Read more ›

by Francesca

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Roseto Comunale

Things To Do 2 2

By Francesca

A romantic rose garden

Roseto Comunale

2

Right beside the Circo Massimo at the foot of Palatino Hill, you’ll find one of the most romantic gardens in the city. It’s home to over 1000 species of roses including both botanical and antique varieties. Read more ›

by Francesca

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Dorothy Circus Gallery

Things To Do 2 1

By Francesca

Pop surrealism exhibition space

Dorothy Circus Gallery

2

As the name of this amazing gallery suggests, you'll find yourself in a surreal world once you pass through its doors. Expect velvet, baroque, blood red, deep black and angelic white in abundance. Read more ›

by Francesca

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Tor Marancia Lotto 1 Street Art

Things To Do 1 0

By Paola

Unexpectedly colourful suburb in Rome

Tor Marancia Lotto 1 Street Art

1

The Tor Marancia district was originally a slum founded in 1935 as a result of forced evictions carried out in Piazza Venezia and the town developed when social housing came into place. An impressive project took place in 2015 when renowned artists have been invited to paint whole city-block facades in this area. Read more ›

by Paola

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Terme di Trastevere

Things To Do 1 0

By Francesca

Ancient Roman style spa

Terme di Trastevere

1

Located in the central neighbourhood of Trastevere, this spa offers you the chance to enjoy a range of different treatments including massages, baths, showers, body masks and more in a unique atmosphere inspired by ancient Rome. Read more ›

by Francesca

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Mod Salons

Things To Do 1 0

By Francesca

Cool hair salon

Mod Salons

1

Many alternative and fashionable locals have their hair cut here. It’s one of the few salons in Rome where the hairdressers understand (and follow) your instructions. Whether you’re a rocker, biker, hipster, fashionista or something completely different, you’ll be more than satisfied with Mod. Read more ›

by Francesca

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Centrale Montemartini

Things To Do 1 0

By Francesca

Classical art & industrial archaeology

Centrale Montemartini

1

Most locals don’t even know about this extraordinary place. It’s a weird museum where the white curves of classical statues contrast with the black metal of old machinery, making for a truly surreal experience. Read more ›

by Francesca

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Rome's Keyhole

Ponte Milvio Market

Giardino degli Aranci

Rome Street Art Tour with a...

Discover the Real Rome with...

Rome Craft Beer Tasting Tour

Pompi

Il Sorchettaro

Spirito

Rione Monti

Spirito

The Jerry Thomas Project

Via del Governo Vecchio

Mercato Monti

Pompi

Things To Do in Rome

58 tips by 6 locals

41 Sights

30 Museums

43 Tours & Activities

A pleasant surprise

A pleasant surprise

Rome's Keyhole

Antique market on the river

Antique market on the river

Ponte Milvio Market

A perspective trick

A perspective trick

Borromini's Perspective

A terrace set amongst oranges trees

A terrace set amongst oranges trees

Giardino degli Aranci

Rome Craft Beer Tasting Tour

Rome Craft Beer Tasting Tour

Eat with a Local at Francesca's Home in Rome!

Eat with a Local at Francesca's Home in Rome!

Mamma che PIZZA! Cooking Class & Dinner with Francesca's Family in Rome

Mamma che PIZZA! Cooking Class & Dinner with Francesca's Family in Rome

Off the Beaten Path Food & Wine Walking Tour in Rome

Off the Beaten Path Food & Wine Walking Tour in Rome

Puppet show & breathtaking panorama

Puppet show & breathtaking panorama

Gianicolo

Art Nouveau & nature

Art Nouveau & nature

Villa Torlonia

The concert hall of Rome

The concert hall of Rome

Auditorium Parco della Musica

Iconic social centre

Iconic social centre

Forte Prenestino

Rome's Keyhole

Ponte Milvio Market

Borromini's Perspective

Rome Street Art Tour with a Local Art Historian

Giardino degli Aranci

Appia Antica Regional Park

Pantheon

Rione Monti

Eat with a Local at Francesca's Home in Rome!

Villa Borghese & Pincio

San Luigi dei Francesi

Galleria Borghese

Become an influencer!

Via dei Coronari

Rome Craft Beer Tasting Tour

Quartiere Coppedè

Musei Vaticani & the Sistine Chapel

Cripta dei Cappuccini

Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore

Magical Tour of Rome by Night

Gianicolo

MAXXI

Macro

Casa dell'Architettura

Day Trip to the Beautiful Castelli Romani

Wunderkammern

Verano Cemetery

Macro Testaccio