Top Things to Do in Rome: Landmarks, Food, and Tours

Rome, the Eternal City, is a treasure trove of ancient history, rich culture, and culinary wonders. Whether youre a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, the city never fails to enchant with its mix of iconic landmarks and modern charm. Many travelers who plan a cultural circuit through Europelike those who visit the Etihad Stadium Manchester Europeoften make Rome a centerpiece of their journey. This article dives into the top things to do in Rome, from exploring landmarks to tasting authentic cuisine and joining immersive tours.

1. Explore Iconic Roman Landmarks

Rome is practically an open-air museum, brimming with historical structures that span over two millennia. No visit is complete without seeing the following sites:

Colosseum and Roman Forum

The Colosseum, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, remains Romes most recognized symbol. Walking through its ruins gives you a vivid sense of ancient gladiator battles and Roman entertainment. Just next door, the Roman Forum offers insight into ancient political life with its crumbling columns, temples, and basilicas.

Pantheon

This architectural marvel has stood intact since 125 AD. With its massive dome and oculus, the Pantheon showcases the brilliance of ancient Roman engineering. It's also the resting place of artists and royals like Raphael and Victor Emmanuel II.

Vatican City

Though technically an independent country, Vatican City is a must when in Rome. Visit St. Peters Basilica, the Vatican Museums, and the awe-inspiring Sistine Chapel to admire Michelangelos masterpieces. Arriving early or booking a skip-the-line tour ensures you avoid long queues.

2. Discover Rome Through Guided Tours

One of the best ways to truly understand the soul of Rome is by participating in expertly guided tours. Whether youre interested in history, art, or local life, theres a tour for everyone.

Walking and Bike Tours

Romes cobblestone alleys and charming piazzas are best explored on foot or by bicycle. Walking tours often take you through hidden gems like Trastevere, Campo de' Fiori, and the Jewish Ghetto. Meanwhile, guided bike tours can take you as far as the Appian Wayan ancient Roman road flanked by aqueducts and catacombs.

Food and Wine Tours

Want to experience Rome through your taste buds? Food tours take you into local trattorias, bakeries, and markets. Sample handmade pasta in Testaccio or sip a glass of wine in a centuries-old wine cellar beneath Piazza Navona.

As Rome is often paired with other European cities on larger itineraries, travelers also consider seasonal information across destinations. For example, understanding the best time to visit London can help align your multi-city tour with weather and crowd expectations.

3. Indulge in Authentic Roman Cuisine

Italian cuisine varies greatly by region, and Rome offers its own delicious twist. Here are must-try dishes and experiences:

Pasta the Roman Way

Dont leave the city without trying classic Roman pastas:

• Cacio e Pepe A creamy mix of pecorino cheese and black pepper.

• Carbonara Made with eggs, cheese, guanciale (cured pork cheek), and black pepperno cream involved!

• Amatriciana A tomato-based pasta also made with guanciale and pecorino.

Roman Street Food

Grab suppl (fried rice balls filled with mozzarella), Roman-style pizza, and trapizzino, a pizza-pocket hybrid filled with meatballs, eggplant parmigiana, and more.

Coffee and Gelato

Romans take coffee seriouslyorder a quick espresso at the bar or try a macchiato. And for dessert? Go on a gelato crawl. Look for authentic shops using natural ingredientsavoid bright, artificially colored options.

4. Wander Through Piazza Life

Romes public squares, or piazzas, serve as vibrant gathering spots and gateways to beautiful fountains and architecture.

Piazza Navona

Built on the site of a Roman stadium, this baroque square features fountains, artists, and charming cafes. Berninis Fountain of the Four Rivers is the highlight.

Trevi Fountain

A few blocks away, youll find the Trevi FountainRomes most famous. Toss a coin over your left shoulder to ensure a return visit.

Spanish Steps

Climb the 135-step staircase to the Trinit dei Monti Church, then relax on the steps and people-watch. The nearby shopping street, Via Condotti, features luxury brands and Italian boutiques.

5. Go Beyond the Tourist Trail

Rome is much more than its major attractions. Here are a few offbeat things to try:

Aventine Keyhole

At the top of Aventine Hill is a keyhole that perfectly frames the dome of St. Peters Basilica. Its one of Romes best-kept secrets.

Quartiere Copped

A surreal blend of Art Nouveau, medieval, and Baroque architecture, this lesser-known neighborhood feels like a fairy tale come alive.

Janiculum Hill

For a panoramic view of the city, head to Janiculum Hill. Its not one of Romes seven hills, but it offers the best vantage pointespecially at sunset.

6. Plan for the Perfect Roman Holiday

Rome offers something for every type of travelerhistory buffs, foodies, romantics, and solo explorers. Before your trip, its smart to research weather patterns, local events, and festivals. While Rome is a year-round destination, spring and autumn offer the most comfortable temperatures and fewer crowds.

If youre exploring other parts of Europe in one journey, bundling your itinerary through curated Europe tour packages can save time and money. These packages often include Rome along with cities like Paris, Barcelona, and Prague, and they streamline your travel experience with guided tours, accommodations, and internal transfers.

Final Thoughts

Rome is a city that captivates from the moment you arrive. With its blend of history, cuisine, and local charm, theres no shortage of unforgettable things to do. Whether you're strolling through ancient ruins, sipping espresso in a sun-drenched piazza, or discovering hidden treasures, Rome offers a truly timeless travel experience. Its easy to combine Rome with other major destinationsperhaps watching a match at the Etihad Stadium Manchester Europe, planning for the best time to visit London, or booking comprehensive Europe tour packages to explore the continent in one seamless trip.