17 Bucket List Things to Do in Rome
Rome wasn’t built in a day, but with this bucket list, you’ll feel like you’ve conquered it in one fell swoop.
Forget the guidebooks – this is your insider’s pass to the downright unmissable experiences in the Italian capital.
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1. Explore the Colosseum at Night
Rome’s iconic gladiatorial arena takes on a whole new vibe after dark. With the tourist hordes gone, you’ll have the place practically to yourself.
Wander through dimly lit tunnels where warriors and beasts once awaited their fate, then step onto the moonlit arena floor. The atmosphere is equal parts eerie and awe-inspiring.
2. Climb to the Top of St. Peter’s Basilica
Forget the elevator – tackling the 551 steps to the top of St. Peter’s dome is a rite of passage for Rome visitors.
The climb isn’t for the faint of heart (or claustrophobic), but the panoramic views are worth every huff and puff.
From the tippy-top, you’ll see the Vatican’s manicured gardens, the winding Tiber River, and a sea of terracotta rooftops stretching to the horizon.
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3. Toss a Coin into Trevi Fountain at Sunrise
Skip the daytime crowds and head to the Trevi Fountain at dawn for a magical moment.
As the first rays of sunlight hit the baroque masterpiece, you’ll have this iconic spot all to yourself.
Toss in one coin to ensure your return to Rome, two for love, or three if you’re feeling extra lucky. Just don’t blame us if you end up moving to Italy.
4. Take a Cooking Class in Trastevere
Channel your inner nonna in Rome’s charming Trastevere neighborhood. Learn to roll out pasta dough like a pro, whip up the perfect carbonara, and discover the secrets behind a killer tiramisu.
After mastering these culinary arts, sit down to enjoy your creations with new friends and plenty of vino.
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5. Tour the Borghese Museum and Gardens
Art lovers, prepare to swoon. The Borghese Gallery houses an unparalleled collection of Renaissance and Baroque masterpieces, including works by Bernini, Caravaggio, and Raphael.
After feasting your eyes on marble sculptures and breathtaking paintings, stroll through the surrounding gardens.
These manicured grounds are perfect for a picnic or an afternoon siesta under centuries-old trees.
6. Explore the Catacombs of St. Callixtus
Descend into Rome’s ancient underground burial chambers for a spine-tingling adventure.
The Catacombs of St. Callixtus stretch for miles, housing the remains of early Christians, martyrs, and even popes.
As you navigate the narrow passageways, you’ll spot ancient frescoes and cryptic symbols etched into the walls.
It’s a haunting glimpse into Rome’s early Christian history that will stay with you long after you resurface.
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7. Attend an Opera at Circus Maximus
The Circus Maximus transforms into an open-air opera house each summer, serving up tunes for the ears under a canopy of stars.
From Verdi’s passionate arias to Puccini’s heart-wrenching melodies, you’ll be swept away by world-class performances in a setting that screams “epic.”
8. Shop at Galleria Alberto Sordi
The Galleria Alberto Sordi is Rome’s answer to retail therapy, blending historic charm with modern flair.
Snap a selfie under the stunning stained-glass ceiling, then dive into a shopping spree that’ll make your credit card weep with joy.
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9. Take a Food Tour in Campo de’ Fiori
Forget counting calories – it’s time to count flavors on a food tour through Campo de’ Fiori.
This bustling market square is a foodie’s playground, where you’ll sample everything from crispy supplì to melt-in-your-mouth porchetta.
Just don’t blame us if you end up needing a new belt size by the end of the tour.
10. Visit the Capuchin Crypt
At The Capuchin Crypt, you can wander through chambers adorned with intricate designs made entirely of human bones.
It’s equal parts creepy and fascinating, guaranteed to give you a new perspective on life (and death).
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11. See Michelangelo’s Moses at San Pietro in Vincoli
Prepare to be starstruck by Michelangelo’s marble masterpiece, Moses. This bearded bad boy sits in San Pietro in Vincoli, looking like he’s about to leap off his pedestal and start smashing tablets.
Marvel at the insane details, from the bulging veins to the flowing beard that seems to defy the laws of stone.
12. Explore Palatine Hill and the Roman Forum
Channel your inner gladiator and conquer Palatine Hill and the Roman Forum. These ancient ruins whisk you back to the days of togas and chariot races.
Wander through crumbling temples, imagine heated debates in the Senate house, and soak in panoramic views. Just watch your step – those old cobblestones can be tricky.
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13. Visit the Sistine Chapel
Michelangelo’s masterpiece ceiling will have you doing double-takes at every brushstroke. Snag an early morning or late afternoon ticket to dodge the tourist tsunami.
Just remember, no photos allowed – this is one masterpiece you’ll have to commit to memory.
14. Take a Segway Tour of Rome
Ditch the blisters and hop on a Segway for a whirlwind tour of the Eternal City. Zip past the Colosseum, through the Roman Forum, and weave your way to the Trevi Fountain – all without breaking a sweat.
Just watch out for those cobblestones – they’re not exactly Segway-friendly.
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15. Attend Gladiator School
Swap your sneakers for sandals and learn to wield a (fake) sword like a pro. You’ll master the art of looking fierce in a tunic.
By the end, you’ll be ready to take on the Colosseum – or at least impress your friends at the next costume party.
16. Peek Through the Knights of Malta Keyhole
Queue up at the Piazza dei Cavalieri di Malta and press your eye to the tiny keyhole. You’ll spy a perfectly framed view of St. Peter’s Basilica, like a postcard come to life.
It’s a three-for-one deal: you’re technically in Italy, looking through the sovereign Maltese Order’s territory, at the Vatican City.
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17. Enjoy Sunset at Giardino degli Aranci
For the grand finale of your Roman holiday, head to the Giardino degli Aranci (Orange Garden) at golden hour.
As the sun dips below St. Peter’s dome, the Eternal City is bathed in a warm, orange glow – a fitting tribute to the garden’s namesake fruit.
Bring a bottle of vino and toast to la dolce vita as Rome puts on its evening show.
