Choose from 177 Fun Things to Do in Rome
ShowingFilter 61-80 of 177 listings.
Keats-Shelley House
Rome was a popular stop for artists and writers during the Italian Grand Tour of centuries past. The Keats-Shelley House pays homage to a particular group of Romantic poets—specifically John Keats, who briefly lived in the house at the end of his life—who resided in Italy’s Eternal City during the early 19th century.
The Basics
English poet John Keats moved into this house at the base of the Spanish Steps in Piazza di Spagna in late 1820, and died from tuberculosis here just a few months later. While the objects in his room were burned after he died, a replica of his bed and his death mask are now on display. The rest of this small museum contains letters, art, and other objects related to Byron, Elizabeth and Robert Browning, Oscar Wilde, and Percy Bysshe Shelley (whose name is on the house, though he never lived here). The historic site is managed by the Keats-Shelley Memorial Association, which often holds literary events in English at the museum.
Rome walking and bike tours that include a stop in Piazza di Spagna can include a visit to the Keats-Shelley House, as well as other city highlights like the Trevi Fountain and the Colosseum.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Keats-Shelley House is an especially interesting attraction for English literature and poetry buffs.
- The museum’s gift shop sells English-language books and objects related to Romantic poetry.
- You must leave large bags in the entrance.
- Photography is allowed without flash.
- Though the museum is accessible to wheelchairs inside, there are stairs to reach the entrance. Contact the museum to arrange for transportation up the stairs.
How to Get There
The Keats-Shelley House is at in Piazza di Spagna, on the right side of the base of the Spanish Steps. It is easily reached from metro line A’s Spagna stop.
When to Get There
The museum is open 10am to 1pm and 2pm to 6pm Monday to Saturday; it is closed Sunday as well as December 8 and December 24 through January 1. It’s busiest from Easter to October, when you should plan to arrive first thing in the morning to explore before the crowds arrive.
Joseph Severn
Keats lived in the Rome house with artist friend Joseph Severn, whose portraits of the poet hang in various places around the museum.
Address: Piazza di Spagna 26, Rome 00187, Italy
Admission: Varies
From $ 35
Orvieto Duomo
Orvieto’s magnificent cathedral (duomo) can be seen from miles around, its soaring facade and spires towering high above the rooftops of the clifftop town. Once you get closer, you can take in its intricate external mosaics and stonework, rose window, bronze doors, and sumptuous Signorelli frescoes inside.
The Basics
Orvieto Cathedral (Duomo di Orvieto) is considered one of the most beautiful churches in Italy, begun in the early 1200s based on a design by Arnolfo di Cambio, who also designed Florence’s duomo. The original plan was Romanesque, but was transformed into the more fashionable Italian Gothic over the centuries; the facade designed by Sienese sculptor and architect Lorenzo Maitani is one of the great architectural masterpieces of its time, covered with splendid mosaics and bas-reliefs and crowned by Orcagna’s 14th-century rose window. Inside, the main nave has the same stark stripes of white travertine and gray basalt stone as the external walls, but the apse is richly frescoed, as are the Chapel of the Corporal and the Chapel of the Madonna of San Brizio, the latter decorated by Signorelli’s masterful Apocalypse and the Last Judgment fresco cycle.
Orvieto is just over an hour outside Rome, and a popular day trip along with nearby Cività di Bagnoregio and Assisi. Join a walking tour of Orvieto that includes an in-depth visit of the Cathedral, or zip around the medieval center on an electric bike. The entrance to Orvieto’s popular underground tour is just across the square from the duomo, so you can easily pair a visit to the town’s most famous above-ground attraction with a tour of its warren of underground tunnels and caves.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Modest attire is required to enter the church, so be sure to cover your shoulders and knees.
- Walking tours of the duomo and city of Orvieto cover quite a bit of ground; comfortable shoes are recommended.
- The cathedral is accessible via a secondary entrance to the left of the main staircase; the internal chapels are all accessible.
- Flash photography isn’t allowed inside the church.
How to Get There
The Orvieto Duomo is on Piazza Duomo in Orvieto’s pedestrian-only historic center and can only be reached on foot. You can reach Orvieto from Rome by car or train in just over an hour.
When to Get There
Orvieto’s two main celebrations—Festa della Palombella on Pentecost and Corpus Domini—center around celebrations, processions, and ceremonial games in the square just outside the duomo and are a particularly festive time to visit.
The Corporal of Bolsena
Orvieto’s impressive cathedral was built to house the Corporal of Bolsena. A corporal is a small square of cloth that holds the communion host and wine chalice during Mass, and in 1263 a host is said to have miraculously dripped blood onto the corporal below in the nearby town of Bolsena. The stained cloth, known as the Corporal of Bolsena, is now displayed in the duomo’s Chapel of the Corporal, and has been attracting pilgrims for almost 800 years.
Address: Piazza Duomo, Orvieto, Umbria 05108, Italy
Admission: Varies
From $ 14
Quirinale Palace (Palazzo del Quirinale)
Quirinale Palace (Palazzo del Quirinale), the official residence of the president of the Italian Republic, sits on Quirinal Hill, the highest of Rome’s historic seven hills. Formerly a royal residence, the palace has dozens of sumptuous, art-filled halls around a stately central courtyard and a beautiful garden with expansive views over Rome.
The Basics
Pope Gregory XIII built the Quirinale Palace in the late 1500s as a summer residence. It was home to dozens of popes for over three centuries before becoming the first residence of the royal House of Savoy, and finally the residence of Italy’s president of the republic in 1947. Its monumental staircase, grand Salone dei Corazzieri, and Cappella Paolina even caught the eye of Napoleon, who was defeated before he could make the palace his own.
Palace visits are only by guided tour on Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday; booking in advance is imperative, as spaces are limited. To view the Renaissance palace from the outside, join a walking, e-bike, or Vespa tour that includes Rome’s highlights such as the Quirinale Palace, Colosseum, Trevi Fountain, and the Vatican. For a unique experience, opt for an evening tour of Rome to see the palace beautifully lit.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Palace visits require a security check; large bags and backpacks, plastic and glass bottles, cans, umbrellas, and other pointed objects are prohibited.
- No photos or videos are allowed.
- The palace is accessible to wheelchair users, though the garden has gravel paths that may be difficult to maneuver.
How to Get There
The Quirinale Palace is located on Via del Quirinale at Piazza del Quirinale. Take metro line A to Repubblica–Teatro Opera station or metro line B to Cavour station.
When to Get There
The palace is closed on Monday and Thursday. Plan to visit on a Sunday, when you can also see the Changing of the Guard.
The History of Quirinal Hill
The palace’s current site was once home to Roman temples and, later, baths built by Constantine. The hill was known as the Salita di Montecavallo (Horse Hill) for centuries, named for ancient statues that portrayed Castor and Pollux in the act of taming their horses that once sat here.
Address: Piazza del Quirinale, Rome, Lazio 00187, Italy
From $ 3
Porta Maggiore
The impressive Porta Maggiore is one of the gates in the Aurelian Walls that circled the ancient city of Rome.
Historic city walls often have well-preserved gates, which were once the only entry and exit points to the city. Porta Maggiore is a particularly good example of an ancient gate, as it’s not just an old doorway but also an aqueduct.
There are two large arches through which two ancient roads once ran, connecting Rome with the outside world. It was built into the existing Aurelian Walls in 52 AD, and the upper part of the gate contained channels for two aqueducts bringing water into Rome.
Tours don’t tend to make the Porta Maggiore a highlight, but it’s sometimes on itineraries as a drive-by - it’s on a large intersection with quite a bit of traffic.
Practical Info
The Porta Maggiore isn’t far from the main entrances of Rome’s Termini Station, so if you’re leaving the train station by taxi or bus and head back along the tracks to the right of the station (if you’re facing it), keep an eye out for the Porta Maggiore.
Address: Piazza di Porta Maggiore, Rome, Lazio 00182, Italy
From $ 69
Piazza Barberini
Sitting atop Rome’s Quirinal Hill, Piazza Barberini is home to two 17th-century fountains designed by Gian Lorenzo Bernini: the ornately sculpted Triton Fountain near the entrance to Palazzo Barberini and the small yet delightful Fountain of Bees. A stop at this bustling square is a must for lovers of baroque art.
The Basics
Piazza Barberini is one of the main transport hubs in central Rome, but look past the bustle of passing traffic and pedestrians to appreciate Bernini’s baroque masterpieces. The square is also home to the National Gallery of Ancient Art (Galleria Nazionale di Arte Antica) in Palazzo Barberini, which contains one of the most important painting collections in Italy, including works by Caravaggio, Titian, and Guercino.
Hop-on-hop-off bus tours of Rome’s most famous landmarks stop at the square, as do city highlights tours, which may include sights such as the Trevi Fountain and the Pantheon. You can opt for a walking or golf-cart tour to explore the square and other top attractions, or see the piazza as part of a food tour with a gelato tasting. The square is especially lovely at night when Bernini’s famous fountains are dramatically lit, so opt for a sunset or twilight tour for unforgettable photos.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The square is pedestrian-only in the center, but busy with passing cars and buses around the periphery.
- If you’re joining a walking or bike tour of Rome and Piazza Barberini, wear comfortable shoes and a sun hat.
- Piazza Barberini is easy to navigate with a wheelchair or stroller, though the cobblestones make the terrain a bit bumpy.
- There are plenty of cafés around the square, perfect for a quick snack or drink.
How to Get There
Piazza Barberini is located in the historical city center of Rome at the bottom of Via Veneto and is one of the main bus and metro hubs in the city. A number of bus routes and metro line A have stops in the square.
When to Get There
Since the piazza can be busy with traffic during the day, the best time to visit is later in the evening when Bernini’s fountains are beautifully lit and the urban chaos somewhat limited.
Highlights of the National Gallery of Ancient Art
Piazza Barberini is named for Palazzo Barberini, once residence of the powerful Barberini family and now home to the Galleria Nazionale di Arte Antica. Don’t be fooled by the name, however, as the collection focuses on paintings from the 13th to the 18th century and not ancient Roman art. Some of the most beautiful paintings in Rome are gathered here, including Raphael's La Fornarina and a number of works by Filippo Lippi, Titian, and Caravaggio—including his striking Judith Beheading Holofernes (Giuditta e Oloferne).
Address: Piazza Barberini, Rome, Province of Rome 00187, Italy
From $ 3
Ponte Sisto
Ponte Sisto is a stone pedestrian bridge that crosses the Tiber River in Rome. It connects the historic center of Rome on one side of the river with the Trastevere neighborhood on the other side. The bridge dates back to the late 1400s and uses the foundations of an older Roman bridge that was destroyed in
the early Middle Ages. Today the bridge is one of the few bridges crossing the Tiber River that does not allow vehicles. This makes it a pleasant crossing point for visitors exploring the city by foot.
The bridge also provides nice views of the city. From here, you can see the dome of St. Peter's Basilica, Ponte Garibaldi, Ponte Mazzini, Tiber Island, and Gianicolo Hill. The bridge connects Via dei Pettinari and Piazza Trilussa. Several boutique hotels, restaurants, and cafes can be found in this area on both sides of the bridge, some offering views of the river and the bridge itself.
Practical Info
Ponte Sisto is located west of Ponte Garibaldi. To get there, take tram 8 to Arenula – Ministero Grazia E Giustizia on the north side of the river or to Belli on the south side of the river, and then walk
northwest along the river, away from Tiber Island.
Address: Ponte Sisto, Rome, Lazio 00153, Italy
From $ 21
La Pieta
Among the many masterpieces inside St. Peter's Basilica, Michelangelo's majestic and moving La Pietà is perhaps the crown jewel. This remarkable life-size sculpture of the Virgin Mary cradling the dead body of Christ blends classical ideals of beauty with startling naturalism and is among the world’s most important works of art.
The Basics
Michelangelo carved La Pietà from a single block of Carrara marble in the late 1490s, and it is the only work the artist signed. Created as a funeral monument for the French cardinal Jean de Bilhères, the statue was moved to its current location in St. Peter’s Basilica in the 18th century. After being damaged by a vandal in 1972, La Pietà was placed behind a protective glass screen.
Choose an early entrance or skip-the-line tour of St. Peter's Basilica to benefit from the knowledge of a guide and avoid a long wait to enter this popular sight. Tours of the basilica are often combined with a visit to St. Peter’s Dome or the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel, where more of Michelangelo's works can be seen. Extended Vatican tours may also include the Vatican Gardens, Necropolis, and Bramante’s Staircase.
Things to Know Before You Go
- A visit to La Pietà is a must for art enthusiasts.
- You must pass through a security check to access St. Peter’s Basilica, and items like pocket knives, corkscrews, and umbrellas are not allowed.
- The dress code in the basilica requires covered shoulders and knees.
- The basilica and the chapel where La Pietà is displayed are accessible to wheelchairs.
- Photography is allowed inside St. Peter’s Basilica, though the glare from the protective glass makes it hard to get a good snapshot of the famous sculpture.
How to Get There
St. Peter’s Basilica is located on St. Peter’s Square (Piazza San Pietro) in Vatican City. The closest metro station is Ottaviano. La Pietà stands in the first chapel on the right when you enter the basilica.
When to Get There
St. Peter’s Basilica is one of the most popular attractions in Rome and crowded most of the year. Early morning is the best time to visit to beat the crowds and enjoy the beauty of the largest church in the world and the art inside virtually to yourself.
Highlights of St. Peter’s Basilica
In addition to Michelangelo’s stunning masterpiece, the basilica is home to a number of important works of art. Be sure to admire Bernini’s ornate Papal altar and baldacchino, as well as his equestrian statue of Constantine. The interior of the church is covered with over 100,000 square feet (9,290 square meters) of mosaics, much of which reproduce famous Renaissance paintings, including Raphael’s Transfiguration. Another work of note is the funerary monument dedicated to Clement XIII, created by Canova at the end of the 18th century and famous for its meticulously sculpted lions.
Address: Piazza San Pietro, Rome 00165, Italy
Admission: Varies
From $ 23
Ponte Sant'Angelo
This marble pedestrian bridge spanning the Tiber river between Castel Sant'Angelo and the historic center of Rome is lined with 10 monumental angel statues based on designs by Bernini. The most beautiful bridge in the city, Ponte Sant’Angelo dates from AD 134 and provides an unforgettable approach to St. Peter’s Square in Vatican City.
The Basics
Ponte Sant'Angelo, or the Sant'Angelo Bridge, was built by Roman emperor Hadrian to access his mausoleum and was originally named Pons Aelius, or the Bridge of Hadrian. Legend holds that the archangel Michael appeared on top of the mausoleum in 590, ending an outbreak of the plague; to mark that miracle, Hadrian's tomb and adjacent bridge were renamed Sant'Angelo.
This ancient Roman bridge is one of the most popular spots in Rome for its scenic views, and a must-see during any walking, bike, or Vespa scooter tour of the Eternal City. Especially beautiful at night, Ponte Sant'Angelo is an unforgettably romantic stop during a Rome-by-night private excursion.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Ponte Sant'Angelo links the pedestrian-only Lungotevere Castello river walk on the Castello Sant'Angelo side of the Tiber to the neighborhoods of Ponte and Borgo, two of the most historic quarters of Rome, on the opposite bank.
- The bridge is crowded during the day and late into the night with visitors snapping pictures, buskers and artists, and street vendors.
- The cobblestoned bridge is flat and easy to navigate with wheelchairs and strollers.
How to Get There
The 64 bus runs from the Termini train station to Castel Sant'Angelo, or you can walk from the Vatican.
When to Get There
The bridge is known for its great views, so visit in the early morning or late afternoon for the best light if you are interested in taking photos.
Ponte Sant'Angelo and the Vatican
Ponte Sant'Angelo is just a short walk from St. Peter's Basilica, and has been used by religious pilgrims on their final stretch to the Vatican for centuries. If you are planning on visiting the Vatican and Sistine Chapel, consider taking the scenic walk across this bridge for an unforgettable approach.
Address: Ponte Sant'Angelo, Rome 00186, Italy
Admission: Free
From $ 23
MAXXI (Museo Nazionale Delle Arti del XXI Secolo)
Amid Rome’s ancient ruins and Renaissance masterpieces, MAXXI—Italy’s national contemporary art museum—is a refreshing change of pace. The museum includes a space dedicated to art and another to architecture, but is perhaps most famous for the striking building itself, designed by prize-winning architect Zaha Hadid.
The Basics
The National Museum of 21st-Century Art (Museo Nazionale Delle Arti del XXI Secolo) has a large permanent collection of paintings, installations, video art, and photography dating from 1970 to today, and also holds temporary exhibitions highlighting artists from around the globe. Given its location on the outskirts of the city center, tourists often overlook MAXXI, offering art buffs the chance to stroll its dynamic 300-foot-long (90-meter) galleries at leisure and admire architect Zaha Hadid’s maze-like structure featuring soaring open spaces and skylights.
MAXXI is often a photo stop on Rome architecture tours, and you can peek at its spacious galleries inside to fully appreciate the building’s beauty.
Things to Know Before You Go
- MAXXI is wonderful for fans of contemporary and modern art.
- The museum has a restaurant and a café open for meals and snacks, and a bookstore.
- Large bags and backpacks must be left in the cloakroom.
- Photography is not allowed in the galleries.
- The museum is fully accessible to wheelchair users.
How to Get There
MAXXI is located on Via Guido Reni 4a in Rome’s Flaminio neighborhood. Take metro line A to Piazzale Flaminio, where you board the line 2 tram to Apollodoro. If arriving by bus, lines 168 and 910 take you to the Reni/Flaminia stop, just a 5-minute walk from the museum, or take line 53 to De Coubertin/Palazzetto dello Sport.
When to Get There
The museum is open 11am to 7pm Tuesday through Sunday with extended hours (until 10pm) on Thursday; it is closed on Monday, Christmas, and May 1. A bit north of the center of Rome, MAXXI is never as crowded as the city’s more famous museums, and serves as a welcome respite from the crush of tourists in the summer months.
Zaha Hadid
The late Iraqi-British architect Zaha Hadid was the first woman to receive the Pritzker Architecture Prize, and is known for her curving, organic-shaped buildings. MAXXI took about 10 years to complete and is considered among Hadid’s finest works.
Address: Via Guido Reni, 4a, Rome, Italy
Admission: Varies
From $ 83
Piazza del Campidoglio
The first modern civic square in Rome, Piazza del Campidoglio was designed by Michelangelo in 1536. Perched at the top of the Capitoline Hill overlooking the Roman Forum, the space is lined by the monumental Cordonata staircase and three Renaissance palaces, now home to city hall and the Capitoline Museums.
The Basics
Piazza del Campidoglio was commissioned by Pope Paul III on the occasion of Holy Roman Emperor Charles V’s visit, and Michelangelo laid out the square to face St. Peter’s Basilica, turning its back on the Roman Forum. He also designed new facades for Palazzo dei Conservatori and Palazzo Senatorio and built Palazzo Nuovo to complement the older palaces. Today, Palazzo Senatorio houses city hall, and the other two palaces house the Capitoline Museums (Musei Capitolini), with vast collections of classical sculpture, Renaissance paintings, and archaeological artifacts. Michelangelo also designed the square’s sweeping Cordonata Steps, unique geometric paving, and setting for the central equestrian statue of Marcus Aurelius.
Piazza del Campidoglio is a stop on many guided walking, bike, and Segway tours of Rome’s highlights. Guided city tours generally visit other top attractions such as the Trevi Fountain and the Pantheon and may include skip-the-line tickets to the Colosseum and Vatican.
Things to Know Before You Go
- There is no shade in the square, so be sure to wear a hat and sunscreen if visiting on foot or bike in the hot summer months.
- The square is flat and well paved, easily navigable by wheelchair or with a stroller.
- Photography enthusiasts will enjoy the view from the square atop the Capitoline Hill.
- There are no restaurants or cafés along the square, but the museum has a rooftop café overlooking Rome.
How to Get There
Piazza del Campidoglio is located behind the famous Vittoriano monument in Piazza Venezia, where a number of bus and tram lines stop. You can also take metro line B to the Colosseo stop and walk about 10 minutes to Piazza del Campidoglio.
When to Get There
With no shade, Piazza del Campidoglio can be very hot during the midday hours. Time your visit for early in the morning or later in the afternoon, when the temperatures are milder and the light better for photographs.
Highlights of the Capitoline Museums
The Capitoline Museums on Piazza del Campidoglio are home to a number of important works of art, including the Capitoline Wolf (Lupa capitolina), a bronze statue of Romulus and Remus suckling a she-wolf; and The Dying Gaul (Galata Morente), dating from ancient Rome. There are also masterpieces by Caravaggio, Titian, Pietro da Cortona, and Guercino.
Address: Piazza del Campidoglio, Rome, Province of Rome, Italy
From $ 3
Ponza Island
This island, sandwiched between Rome and Naples off Italy’s western coast, was long considered one of the Tyrrhenian Sea’s best-kept secrets. These days, however, the secret’s out: Visitors can’t stay away from Ponza’s dramatic coastal cliffs, crystal-clear water, and sea grottoes.
The Basics
Part of of the Pontine Islands Archipelago, Ponza is famous for its blue grottoes, as well as its swimming- and snorkeling-friendly beaches (Chiaia di Luna, Cala Feola, and Frontone) and Piscine Naturali (saltwater pools formed by ancient volcanic activity). Cobblestone roads wind through a pretty town center that’s filled with charming shops and excellent restaurants, and colorful homes and villas dot the hills overlooking the sea.
The best way to see Ponza is from the Mediterranean; daylong boat tours usually include a cruise along the coastline to admire jagged cliffs, the Arco Naturale stone arch, and sea grottoes, plus free time to explore on land. Your excursion may also stop at Palmarola, a picturesque island nearby.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Boat tours may include beach towels and water-sports gear, but bring your own hat and sunblock.
- Some boats may be wheelchair accessible—always confirm ahead of time.
- Boat tours are family friendly; they’re a perfect way to spend the day with kids.
- Other popular island destinations along Italy's southern coast are Capri, Ischia, and Ventotene.
How to Get There
Ponza is located in the Tyrrhenian Sea, 21 miles (34 kilometers) off the Italian coast. Ferries bound for the island leave from Naples, Terracina, Formia, and Anzio; you can also book a private boat tour.
When to Get There
Due to choppy seas and inclement weather, ferry and boat crossings are often suspended in winter. The best time to visit Ponza is between April and October.
Legendary History
Ponza is fabled to be the island home of the sorceress Circe, who makes an appearance in Homer’s The Odyssey.
Address: Ponza Island, Italy
From $ 108
Paciotti Salumeria
Established in 1970, Paciotti Salumeria (the word ‘salumeria’ translates roughly as ‘a shop selling cured meats’, but this place is so much more) is one of Rome’s best-loved and smartest gastro-emporiums, family-run over four generations and located in a tangle of backstreets north of the Vatican City. A visual and aromatic delight, the store is known throughout Rome for its superb selection of salamis, smoked meats and fine Parma hams. There’s a wide choice of Italian cheeses—from Dolcelatte to Parmiggiano and Gorgonzola—and the very freshest of bread delivered daily. Other treats include homemade pastas, extra-virgin olive oils and exclusive (and expensive) seasonal truffles.
An experienced sommelier is on hand to advise on buying some of Italy’s best wines, from reds and whites to sparkling Astis and the Italian liqueur grappa. Paciotti also offers a gift service and its hampers can be delivered across the world; the gourmet store is also on several tours of the very best of Rome’s gastronomy.
Practical Info
Via Marcantonio Bragadin, 51/53. Mon–Wed, Fri–Sat 7.30–8.30pm; Thur 1pm–8.30pm. Metro Line A to Cipro.
Address: Via Marcantonio Bragadin, 51/53, Rome 00136, Italy
Hours: Open Mon–Wed, Fri–Sat 7:30–8:30pm; Thurs 1pm–8:30pm
From $ 87
Pietro Canonica Museum (Museo Pietro Canonica)
One of Rome’s hidden gems, the Pietro Canonica Museum is home to a stellar collection of works by the 19th-century sculptor and musician, all displayed against the backdrop of his luxurious fortress-style villa in the Villa Borghese gardens. Visitors will gain a unique glimpse into the artist's life a century ago.
The Basics
Canonica was a sculptor and academic born near Turin in 1869. Much feted by the aristocracy in Italy and Europe for his fine sculptural portraits of royalty and nobility, he was given this small but sumptuous "fortezzuola" villa by the city of Rome, and lived there until his death in 1959. The artist's house is now a museum dedicated to his life and work; visit as part of a Villa Borghese bike or Segway tour that also includes the Galleria Borghese, the Silvano Toti Globe Theatre, the Bioparco zoo, and the Pincio Gardens.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The museum’s collection consists primarily of sculptures, but there are other eclectic things to see as well, including Canonica’s smock and beret.
- Large bags and backpacks are not allowed in the museum.
- The museum is partially accessible to wheelchairs and strollers.
- Flash photography is not allowed inside the museum.
How to Get There
The museum is located on Viale Pietro Canonica in Villa Borghese park. The nearest metro station is Flaminio; the nearest bus stop is at Piazzale Brasile.
When to Get There
Because of its location in Villa Borghese park, the museum makes for a great stop on a nice day. It’s closed on Mondays.
The Pietro Canonica Museum Collection
Visitors can see original models for Canonica’s bronze and marble statues, as well as sketches and drawings, in the artist’s ground-floor studio. Upstairs, you can explore private apartments furnished with antiques, Flemish tapestries, and paintings by 19th- and 20th-century Italian artists such as Giovanni Battista Quadrone and Vittorio Cavalleri.
Address: Viale Pietro Canonica, 2, Rome, Lazio 00197, Italy
From $ 45
Rainbow Magic Land
Just as its name implies, Rainbow Magic Land is a fantasy world of color and magic — a theme park for families to explore, located just outside of Rome. With more than thirty attractions and ten different shows, there is plenty to see and do, from roller coaster rides to live entertainment. Areas are themed with castles, fairies, Vikings, wizards, and other enchanted characters, some of which are from popular cartoons shown in Europe. Sections of the park are inspired by the Italian Rainbow Group for children with animated characters such as Winx fairies, Monster Allergy, and Huntik PopPixie.
There are also many restaurant, shopping, and entertainment options throughout. Seasonally the options expand, as ice, water, and firework shows are added. The park is partly powered by solar energy. At over 600,000 square meters in size, there are plenty of adventures to be had!
Practical Info
Located in Valmontone, it takes about 20 minutes to reach Rainbow Magic Land by car from Rome. It is open daily from 10 am to 6 pm, with extended hours in July and August. Admission costs 35 € for adults, 28 € for children under 10 and free for children under 1 meter in height. There are activities suitable for all ages.
Address: Via della Pace, Valmontone, Italy
Hours: Daily from 10 am to 6 pm, with extended hours in July and August.
Admission: 35 € for adults, 28 € for children under 10 and free for children under 1 meter in height.
From $ 30
Protestant Cemetery
Rome may be home to the Vatican, but not everyone who lives (or dies) in the Eternal City is Catholic. One of the city’s loveliest cemeteries is dedicated to Protestants and non-Catholics, both Italian and foreign, and is home to a number of important tombs, including those of English poets Keats and Shelley.
The Basics
English travelers began to come through Rome on the Grand Tour in the 18th century, followed by a wave of writers and artists who settled there. Many were not Catholic, and Rome soon found it needed a cemetery to lay to rest Protestants who died while in the city. The first burial in Rome’s Protestant Cemetery was in 1738, making it one of the oldest cemeteries in continuous use in Europe. With the tombs of luminaries such as John Keats, Percy Bysshe Shelley, American poet Gregory Corso, and Italian philosopher Antonio Gramsci, the cemetery is said to contain the highest density of famous graves anywhere in the world.
The Protestant Cemetery is also known locally as the Cemetery of the English (Cimitero degli Inglesi), though its official name is the Non-Catholic Cemetery for Foreigners. Visit the most famous graves in the Protestant Cemetery by joining a guided cemetery tour, or stop in to appreciate its beautiful statuary and moving inscriptions as part of a Rome highlights walking or bike tour.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The cemetery offers 1-hour guided tours that must be booked at least 10 days in advance.
- To find a specific grave, consult the burial database or pick up a cemetery map at the visitor center.
- Restrooms are available in the visitor center at the cemetery entrance.
- The cemetery is crisscrossed by paved and gravel walkways, some of which may be hard to navigate with a wheelchair or stroller.
How to Get There
The Protestant Cemetery is located in the southern Roman neighborhood of Testaccio, near Porta San Paolo and the Pyramid of Cestius. Take metro line B to the Piramide station.
When to Get There
The cemetery is outdoors so best toured on a clear day in spring and fall, when the temperatures are mild. The site is closed in the afternoon on Sundays and holidays.
The Most Beautiful Tombs in the Protestant Cemetery
Many of the most famous graves in the cemetery are surprisingly simple, while there are a number of remarkably beautiful tombs for less famous figures. Some of the most important are the neoclassical grave of Dutch sculptor Pier Pander, the statue of the young Georges Volkoff, and the Angel of Grief, designed by American sculptor William Wetmore Story for his wife’s grave.
Address: Via Caio Cestio, 6, Rome, Province of Rome 00153, Italy
Admission: Varies
From $ 58
Pincio Gardens (Monte Pincio)
Overlooking Rome’s Piazza del Popolo, the gardens on Pincio Hill have been present since the time of the ancient Romans. It is named for the Pincis, a noble Roman family whose estate was built on these grounds in the 4th century. The gardens were separated from the neighboring Villa Borghese by an ancient wall.
Filled with greenery, flowers, and bust statues of famous Italians, the present gardens were laid out in the 19th century. Tree-lined avenues were once (and still are) a grand place to go for a stroll. There’s also an obelisk and historic water clock located in the gardens. They are accessed via a steep, winding path up from the city. Once at the top, you’ll have one of the best views of Rome, looking out to rooftops, piazzas, and St. Peter’s Basilica. The panoramic outlook is arguably best at sunset.
Practical Info
The Pincio Gardens are located on the western edge of Villa Borghese. The nearest metro stop is Flaminio. It is also accessible on foot from the top of the Spanish Steps.
Address: Piazzale Napoleone I and Viale dell'Obelisco, Rome, Italy
Hours: 24 hours
From $ 45
Jewish Museum of Rome (Museo Ebraico di Roma)
Rome has been home to Italy’s most vibrant Jewish community for over 2000 years. The Jewish Museum of Rome records their history in seven ornate rooms displaying precious textiles, manuscripts, and silver, as well as a section dedicated to the Nazi occupation of Rome and tombstones moved from the catacombs beneath the city.
The Basics
Located in the lower level of the Great Synagogue of Rome (Tempio Maggiore di Roma)—built in the former Jewish ghetto (Ghetto di Roma) and inaugurated in 1904—the Jewish Museum of Rome (Museo Ebraico di Roma) opened in 1960. A gallery displays marble fragments from the 16th to the 19th centuries that record elements of Roman Jewish life, from the purchase of cemetery plots to the wills of wealthy families. The highlight is the 3D virtual tour through the Jewish ghetto, which re-creates the original streets and buildings from historic prints and artworks.
Rome’s former Jewish ghetto is one of the most storied corners of the city, offering a fascinating glimpse into the culture and history of one of Europe’s oldest Jewish communities. Small-group Jewish ghetto tours generally include a guided tour of the main synagogue, the smaller Spanish Synagogue (Tempio Spagnolo), and the Jewish Museum.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Jewish Museum is steps from the charming backstreets, markets, and restaurants of the former Jewish ghetto and, across the river, Trastevere.
- Rome Jewish ghetto tours require a bit of walking, so be sure to wear comfortable shoes and a sun hat.
- The Jewish history museum is accessible to wheelchair users.
- Photography is not allowed inside the museum.
How to Get There
The Jewish Museum is located in the Great Synagogue complex on Lungotevere de' Cenci, just across the Tiber River from Rome’s historic center. Take bus 40 from the Termini train station or walk across Ponte Garibaldi.
When to Get There
As part of the synagogue complex, the Jewish Museum of Rome is closed on Jewish holidays, so be sure to check the calendar before planning a visit.
The Jewish Ghetto
Rome’s historic Jewish ghetto is now one of the most picturesque neighborhoods in the city, with tiny alleys and squares lined with kosher restaurants, bakeries, and shops.
Address: Lungotevere de’ Cenci, Trastevere, Rome 00186, Italy
Admission: Varies
From $ 99
Portico of Octavia
Portico of Octavia was a large courtyard with many columns originally built in the 2nd century BC. It was rebuilt about 100 years later by Emperor Augustus and dedicated to his sister, Octavia. It once covered an area of almost 445 feet long and almost 380 feet wide, larger than a football field, and it had
more than 300 Corinthian columns. The Temple of Juno Regina and the Temple of Jupiter Stator stood in the middle. Today not much remains of the structure compared to what it once was. Visitors can still see five columns and the ruins of the entrance gate.
In the Middle Ages, the ruins of the Portico of Octavia became the site of a fish market. A stone to the right of the portico's great arch still marks the location. Nearby you can find the Teatro Marcello, the Tiber River and Tiber Island, the Temple of Apollo Sosiano, and it's not far from the Roman Forum.
Practical Info
Portico of Octavia is located at Via del Portico D'Ottavia, 29. To get there, take tram 8 to Arenula - Cairoli and walk east.
Address: Via del Portico D'Ottavia, 29, Rome, Lazio 00186, Italy
From $ 45
Herculaneum
The ruins of the ancient Roman city of Herculaneum (Ercolano) live in the shadow of their more famous neighbor, Pompeii. But many enthusiasts consider this smaller archaeological site—one of Italy’s most important UNESCO-listed spots—to be equally interesting and engaging.
The Basics
Herculaneum, like Pompeii, was buried by the AD 79 eruption of Mount Vesuvius. Unlike Pompeii, however, Herculaneum was preserved rather than destroyed by the blast, so many of the original Roman buildings are still standing—including a few that have an intact second story—giving visitors a more accurate feel for what the city looked like before the eruption. The volcanic ash and mud that covered Herculaneum sealed frescoes and mosaics decorating the homes and baths, protected wooden furniture, and even encased food in household kitchens. Today, the modern city of Ercolano sits above sections of the ancient city that haven’t yet been unearthed.
To fully understand the history and importance of the ruins, it’s best to visit Herculaneum as part of a private tour led by an expert tour guide. Herculaneum is an incredibly popular attraction, so tours including skip-the-line tickets are a must in the busy summer months. As the ruins are located near Pompeii and Mount Vesuvius, all three sights can easily be combined in a single full-day tour.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Herculaneum is a must-see for ancient history buffs.
- Kids especially enjoy exploring the Herculaneum ruins—choose a tour with an expert guide who is adept at engaging the whole family.
- Almost all of the remains of the ancient town are outdoors, so be sure to wear a hat and sunscreen in summer, as well as comfortable shoes.
- Most of the archaeological site at Herculaneum is accessible to wheelchair users.
How to Get There
Herculaneum is located just north of Naples along the Bay of Naples. It’s centrally located for an easy day tour or shore excursion from Sorrento, the Amalfi Coast, Capri, and even Rome.
When to Get There
The archaeological site is almost entirely outdoors, so is best to avoid visiting on the hot days. In summer, visit in early morning or late afternoon to avoid midday heat.
Choosing Herculaneum over Pompeii
Where much of Pompeii is off-limits to visitors due to the dangerous instability of the structures, almost all of Herculaneum is open to the public, and you can walk into many of the ancient Roman town’s buildings. The experience is eerie and poignant, as it can feel as though the owners have just stepped out for the moment rather than having died in an volcanic eruption two millennia ago.
Address: Via Luigi Palmieri, 173, Naples, Italy
Admission: Varies
From $ 139
Museum of Contemporary Art of Rome (MACRO)
Rome’s Museum of Contemporary Art (Museo d'Arte Contemporanea Roma, or MACRO) holds one of Italy’s most important collections of works by contemporary artists in two dramatic industrial spaces. A particular delight for 21st-century art and architecture lovers, the sibling museum venues are sure to impress even the most skeptical art critics.
The Basics
There are two MACRO spaces: the larger on Via Nizza is a former Peroni brewery surrounded by elegant 19th-century apartment buildings that was restored by French architect Odile Decq. The permanent collection here concentrates on modern art including sculpture, photography, and installations from 1960 to today. The art museum’s underground parking lot holds remains of an ancient Roman house discovered during renovation of the brewery. The second location, MACRO Testaccio—aka Il Mattatoio—is located in a retrofitted slaughterhouse and is an exhibition hall that opens only for temporary events. This space is a fascinating stop on any walking tour of the Testaccio neighborhood, once a working-class district and now one of the trendiest neighborhoods in Rome. MACRO’s artworks and both buildings are highlights of Rome’s contemporary art and architecture tours.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Both MACRO venues are a must-see for lovers of contemporary art and architecture.
- The main MACRO museum has both a restaurant and a café, in addition to a shop.
- Large bags and backpacks, umbrellas, and pointed or blunt instruments of any kind must be checked at the cloakroom.
- Photography is not allowed inside the museum.
- MACRO is completely accessible to wheelchair users.
How to Get There
The main MACRO venue is located on Via Nizza in Rome’s Salario-Nomentano neighborhood. Buses 38, 80,60, 62, 82, 89, and 90 all stop in the vicinity. The MACRO Testaccio exhibition hall is located on Piazza Orazio Giustiniani in the Testaccio neighborhood. Tram 3 and buses 719, 170, and 781 stop nearby.
When to Get There
Both MACRO locations are open year-round but closed on Mondays. They often host temporary events and exhibitions, so it’s a good idea to check the upcoming program to see what is scheduled.
MAXXI
Rome’s other contemporary and avant-garde art museum is MAXXI, in the residential Flaminio neighborhood near Ponte Milvio and Villa Borghese. The building, designed in 2010 by Zaha Hadid, is considered a masterpiece of contemporary architecture, and houses a permanent collection of art and photography as well as prestigious temporary exhibitions.
Address: Via Nizza, 138, Rome 00198, Italy
Admission: Varies
From $ 226