Choose from 177 Fun Things to Do in Rome
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Via Nazionale
The large avenue that runs between Piazza della Repubblica and the Largo Magnanapoli in Rome is called Via Nazionale, and it's lined with hotels and shops.
Via Nazionale was built in the late 19th century, though there was already a street under construction at the time - Via Pia, named for Pope Pius IX. The existing plan was altered to make the road wider, as it was deemed a critical artery leading from the area near Termini train station into the heart of Rome.
Because of the proximity to Stazione Termini, Via Nazionale is a popular street for hotels and other accommodation options. There are also lots of mid-range and chain clothing stores, and some chain and fast food restaurants.
Although the construction of Via Nazionale required the demolition of several historic buildings, there are still some attractions along the broad street - many of which were built after the road was finished. St. Paul's Within the Walls was the first Protestant church in Rome, opened in 1880. The Palazzo delle Esposizioni, opened in 1883, has several entertainment and exhibition spaces. The 16th-century church of Santa Caterina a Magnanapoli is is near the end of Via Nazionale, and the street also leads directly to the ruins of Trajan's Market.
Practical Info
Via Nazionale is a major Roman artery and not necessarily the most scenic of spots, but it connects two ancient Roman archaeological sites (Trajan's Market and the Baths of Diocletian), and it's not far from the palace and museum of the Quirinale, where Italy's President lives.
Address: Via Nazionale, Rome, Lazio 00184, Italy
From $ 149
Spanish Steps
Climbing from Piazza di Spagna to the Trinità dei Monti church, the Spanish Steps is one of Rome’s most recognized landmarks, immortalized in countless postcards and films. Built between 1723 and 1725, the 138-step staircase recently underwent a meticulous cleaning, restoring the marble landmark to its former glory.
The Basics
The monumental Spanish Steps, the widest staircase in Europe, was designed by architect Francesco de Sanctis and counts among the Eternal City's most iconic tourist sites, along with such highlights as the Trevi Fountain, Piazza Navona, and the Roman Forum. The steps are also a lively meeting places for locals, who gather at the bars and cafés around Bernini's famous Fontana della Barcaccia in the square below.
Rome tours by Segway, Vespa, or hop-on hop-off bus are a great way to see the Spanish Steps along with other famous attractions like the Colosseum (often with skip-the-line access) and Pantheon in a single day, or opt for a specialized private tour with an expert tour guide to combine a food and wine or pizza tour with your visit. For a unique look at the steps, consider joining a small-group city tour by night when the monument is dramatically lit and the crowds are thinner.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Sitting, eating, and drinking on the steps is forbidden; local police strictly enforce these rules.
- The steps are just that: stairs. As such, they are not accessible to wheelchairs or strollers.
- Just adjacent to the Spanish Steps is the house where English poet John Keats lived, now a museum dedicated to his memory and works.
- Be aware of your surroundings and watch for individuals who will thrust a rose or other souvenir into your hand and then demand payment.
How to Get There
The metro line A runs from the Termini train station to Piazza di Spagna.
When to Get There
The Spanish Steps are crowded most of the day, so you'll have to visit early in the morning or late at night if you want to enjoy them in relative peace. The steps are in direct sunlight almost all day, so can be hot to climb during the midday hours in summer; they are particularly photogenic in the spring, festooned with colorful flowers, and decorated with a towering Christmas tree and fairy lights during the winter holidays.
Why Spanish?
The Spanish steps were financed by French diplomat Étienne Gueffier and built to link the Trinità dei Monti Church, under the patronage of the king of France at the time, with the Spanish Square below, so-named because it was home to the Spain's embassy and considered Spanish territory in the 17th century.
Address: Piazza di Spagna, Rome 00187, Italy
Hours: Daily
Admission: Free
From $ 3
Hard Rock Cafe Rome
Fans of the Hard Rock Cafe chain know that throughout the world, every restaurant looks pretty uniform. But Rome has always played to its own tune, which customers will notice immediately "“ a ceiling fresco that at first seems like every church in the city at closer scrutiny reveals cherubs rocking out on their very own instruments!
The memorabilia found at this Hard Rock location lives up to the hype, with items ranging from the iconic clothing of Elvis, John Lennon, Jimi Hendrix and Elton John to instruments donated by Flea, Tom Petty, and Nancy Wilson of Heart. The food is all-American; something many tourists may scoff at in Rome, but is exotic for the Italians and a welcome taste of home for expats and those who have been traveling for a long time!
Practical Info
Hard Rock Cafe Rome is at Via Vittorio Veneto 62 and open seven days a week. They have non-stop service from noon to midnight or 1am; their merchandise store is open starting at 9:30am until closing.
Address: Via Vittorio Veneto 62, Rome, Italy
From $ 23
Trajan's Market (Mercati di Traiano)
Trajan’s Market (Mercati di Traiano) is one of the most interesting areas of Rome’s five Imperial Forums, built by Julius Caesar and his successors at the very apex of the Imperial Age. This vast, triple-decker semicircle was ancient Rome’s version of the modern-day shopping mall, and it remains a remarkably intact example of Roman urban planning.
The Basics
Trajan’s Market, commissioned by Emperor Trajan and designed by Greek architect Apollodorus of Damascus, was constructed between AD 107 and 113 to complete the Forum of Trajan. The market was extensively excavated between the world wars, and today, although Trajan’s Forum is a hodgepodge of fallen columns and plinths, the market is still recognizable. Explore its passageways and main street as part of a small-group ancient Rome tour on foot or by Segway. Also here is the Museum of the Imperial Forums (Museo dei Fori Imperiali), which contains fragments discovered while excavating the archaeological complex, models of ancient temples and buildings, a huge sculpted head of Emperor Constantine, and temporary exhibitions focused on the history of the Roman Empire.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Trajan’s Market tours require a bit of walking, so be sure to wear comfortable shoes and a sun hat.
- The archaeological site and museum are accessible to wheelchair users.
- Flash photography is not allowed inside the museum.
- You must check backpacks, large bags, and umbrellas at the cloakroom.
How to Get There
Trajan’s Market is located on the side of Quirinal Hill in Rome’s Forum area along Via Quattro Novembre, a 5-minute walk from Colosseo metro station (line B).
When to Get There
Rome is one of the most popular destinations in Italy and can be crowded for much of the year. It’s best to visit in early spring or late fall, when the temperatures are mild for exploring outdoor archaeological sites and crowds are sparse.
The Imperial Fora
Ancient Rome once had five Imperial Forums: the Forum of Caesar, the Forum of Augustus, the Forum of Nerva, the Forum of Trajan, and the Forum of Vespasian. These are concentrated around the area around Via dei Fori Imperiali, near the famous Roman Forum.
Address: Via IV Novembre 94, Rome 00187, Italy
Admission: Varies
From $ 103
Turtle Fountain (Fontana delle Tartarughe)
Tucked away in a quiet corner of Rome’s Trastevere district, the Turtle Fountain (Fontana delle Tartarughe) is one of many important monuments found in the historic Jewish Ghetto. The collaborative masterpiece of sculptor Taddeo Landini and architect Giacomo della Porta, the fountain was built between 1580 and 1588, and stands at the center of the Piazza Mattei.
A prime example of late Renaissance art, the fountain’s design features a central pedestal depicting four ephebes perched on marble shells, each lifting turtles to the upper water basin. Today, the original bronze turtles that gave the fountain its name have been replaced by replicas thanks to a spate of thieving, while the originals are preserved in the Capitoline Museums.
Practical Info
The Turtle Fountain is located on Piazza Mattei, in the Trastevere district of Rome.
Address: Piazza Mattei, Roma 00186, Italy
From $ 38
Trastevere
Bohemian Trastevere is one of Rome’s most historic and picturesque neighborhoods—a maze of cobbled streets lined with atmospheric restaurants serving some of Italy’s best cuisine. At dusk, trendy crowds pour into its fashionable sidewalk cafés and bars to enjoy the vibrant Roman nightlife. Trastevere lies across the river—hence the name, which means “across the Tiber”—from the center of Rome, and at its heart is Piazza Santa Maria in Trastevere, home to one of Rome’s oldest churches (from AD 340) and a majestic 15th-century fountain. Other neighborhood sights include the beautiful Santa Cecilia in Trastevere church, dating from the fifth century, and Villa Farnesina, filled with stunning frescoes—including two attributed to Raphael.
The Basics
Many of Trastevere’s narrow streets are closed to traffic, so the best way to explore this ancient Roman neighborhood is by getting off the beaten path with a guided walking tour—though Vespa scooter and Segway tours are also fun options. Trastevere is famous for its excellent cuisine, so consider taking a food tour to discover traditional Roman dishes, Italian wines, and open-air food markets. Alternatively, tour after dark to rub elbows with young Romans out for a night on the town.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Trastevere’s nightlife centers around the bustling Piazza Trilussa, at the end of the Ponte Sisto.
- If you love authentic Italian food and wine, Trastevere is considered one of the best neighborhoods in Rome for meals, wine tastings, and festive ambience.
- Tours of Trastevere often include visits to the Jewish Ghetto and Campo de’ Fiori, both located just across the river.
How to Get There
Trastevere lies along the east bank of the Tiber River, south of Vatican City. To reach the neighborhood, cross the Ponte Sisto on foot, or take the 8 tram across the Ponte Garibaldi just north of Tiber Island.
When to Get There
Trastevere is delightful to explore all year round, though the neighborhood is best appreciated when the weather is mild. For a unique look into one of the most lively neighborhoods in the Eternal City, take a leisurely stroll by night. Like much of Rome, the area gets crowded in summer.
Caravaggio in Trastevere
In the early 17th century, Caravaggio was commissioned to paint “The Death of the Virgin” for the Chiesa di Santa Maria della Scala in Trastevere. The master painter’s realistic depiction of the Virgin as swollen and bare-legged was considered blasphemous, and the parish rejected his work. It now hangs in the Louvre in Paris.
Address: Rome, Province of Rome 00153, Italy
From $ 3
Sistine Chapel
The Sistine Chapel, part of Rome’s Vatican Museums, was decorated by art masters Sandro Botticelli and Pinturicchio in the 15th century before being completed with Michelangelo’s stunning 16th-century ceilings frescoes and monumental “The Last Judgement,” which covers the apse wall. The fresco-covered ceiling is the artist’s greatest work and one of the most important masterpieces in history, while the Sistine Chapel serves as a glorious homage to Renaissance art and one of the most visited sights in all of Italy.
The Basics
A Vatican Museums ticket includes access to the Sistine Chapel, and as part of the Vatican Museums, the chapel cannot be visited on its own and can only be entered through the museum complex. Because the Sistine Chapel attracts millions of visitors each year, those who don’t reserve skip-the-line access in advance will find long lines upon arrival. Many travelers find that the complex frescoes are best appreciated with the assistance of an official tour guide, so booking a group tour, an expert guide for a private tour, or even a self-guided audio tour is recommended.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Seeing Michelangelo's frescoes can be unforgettable even for kids if seen as part of a small-group or kid-friendly Sistine Chapel and Vatican tour.
- Because the chapel is a Catholic church, appropriate attire and decorum are required. Wear clothing that covers your shoulders and knees and to keep your voice low.
- Though photography (without flash) is permitted in the Vatican Museums, no photography is allowed in the Sistine Chapel.
How to Get to the Sistine Chapel
The Sistine Chapel is part of the Vatican Museums complex adjacent to St. Peter’s Basilica in the Vatican City. The Ottaviano station on Line A of the city’s underground metro system is about a five-minute walk away.
When to Get There
The Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel are famously crowded, especially during the middle of the day. To skip the line and savor the chapel frescoes in relative peace, reserve an exclusive first-entry or early-access tour in the morning or a night tour after the general public has left. The chapel is often quieter on Wednesday mornings, when the papal address attracts most visitors to St. Peter’s Square instead of the museums.
Sistine Chapel Highlights
It’s easy to be overwhelmed by the majesty of Michelangelo’s sumptuous ceiling frescoes, which cover 5,000 square feet (460 square meters) and depict more than 300 figures illustrating the “Creation of the Earth,” the “Creation of Humankind,” and the “State of Humanity.” Take a few moments to focus on and appreciate the iconic scene of the “Creation of Adam” in the ceiling’s central section, one of the most famous and replicated religious paintings of all time.
Address: St Peter’s Square, Vatican City 00120, Italy
Hours: Mon–Sat 9am–6pm, last Sunday of the month 9am-2pm
Admission: Adults €16, Children €8
From $ 25
Baths of Diocletian
Visitors to Rome are still able to visit what was once the grandest and most luxurious public bath or thermae in the ancient city. Built from 298 to 306 AD, at its largest it spanned nearly 32 acres and could accompany as many as 3,000 bathers. Bathing was a social event and ritual significant to Roman society. Rooms ranged from cold to warm to hot water, with saunas, swimming pools, and spas. Baths were not just a form of relaxation for ancient Romans, but a social and even political act where business often took place.
These massive baths were named in honor of Emperor Diocletian, who at the time hadn't even visited Rome. The entire complex included a gymnasium, library, stadium, gardens, galleries, and walking paths. Though most of the structures were destroyed by Goths in 537 AD, some of the ruins remain. The Basilica of St. Mary of the Angels was built into the central bath area by Michelangelo in 1561.
Practical Info
Located at Viale Enrico De Nicola 79, the site is open Tuesday to Sunday from 9 am to 7:45 pm. It is part of the National Roman Museum. Admission cost is €7, and also includes entry to Palazzo Altemps and Crypta Balbi. The closest metro stop is Termini or Repubblica.
Address: Viale Enrico De Nicola, 79, Rome 00185, Italy
Admission: € 7.00
From $ 149
Trinità dei Monti
Standing proud at the top of Rome's iconic Spanish Steps, the historic Trinità dei Monti is one of the city's most photographed churches and dates back to 1585. Built under order of King Louis XII of France, the landmark church remains the property of the French government, a legacy hinted at by the pair of clocks that adorn its façade "“ one showing Rome time, the other Paris time.
For most visitors the most striking image of the church is from piazza below, looking up over the Fontana della Barcaccia and the Spanish steps. Climbing the 135 steps to the church entrance (there's also a lift running from the Spagna metro station) is also rewarding, offering a closer view of the Renaissance façade, the work of architect Giacomo della Porta. Inside the church, highlights include a series of magnificent frescoes by Daniele da Volterra, Federico Zuccari and Giambattista Naldini.
Practical Info
Trinità dei Monti is located on the Piazza della Trinità dei Monti at the top of the Spanish steps in central Rome and is open Tuesday to Sunday from 8am-8pm.
Address: Piazza della Trinità dei Monti, 3, Roma 00187, Italy
Hours: Tues-Sun: 8am-8pm.
From $ 45
Church of the Gesù (Chiesa del Gesù)
In a city famous for its impressive ceilings"”think that of the Sistine Chapel"”Rome's Church of the Gesù is a standout. The massive three-dimensional trompe l'oeil ceiling frescoes are so extraordinary that a large mirror has been strategically positioned so visitors can enjoy without straining their necks.
The Basics
The baroque Chiesa del Gesù (Chiesa del Santissimo Nome di Gesù all'Argentina) is one of the main churches of Rome, and a visit is often included in walking tours of the city's most important historic and artistic churches, such as Santa Maria degli Angeli e dei Martiri, San Luigi dei Francesi, and Santa Maria sopra Minerva. You can combine a visit to Church of the Gesù with skip-the-line Vatican tickets to also tour St. Peter's Basilica, or opt for an audio-guided tour to visit this and other attractions at your own pace.
The church was built in the 16th century to replace an older Jesuit church marking the spot where the founder of the Jesuit order, Saint Ignatius of Loyola, once prayed to an image of the Virgin Mary (still preserved inside). The ornate frescoes over the nave and inside the dome by Giovanni Battista Gaulli date from the 17th century and feature clever trompe l'oeil effects.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Remember to wear clothing that covers your shoulders and knees to enter Catholic churches in Rome.
- Tours of Rome's churches require quite a bit of time on your feet, so wear comfortable shoes.
- Due to the stairs at the entrance to the church, it is not accessible to wheelchairs or strollers.
- Photography without a flash is allowed inside the church.
How to Get There
Church of the Gesù is located along Via degli Astalli on Piazza del Gesù right in the center of Rome, a quick walk from Piazza Venezia where many buses and tram lines stop.
When to Get There
Rome is one of the most popular destinations in Italy, and its most famous churches can be crowded during the busy summer season. Try to visit first thing in the morning or late in the afternoon to enjoy the ceiling decorations in relative peace.
The Gesù Chapels
Other highlights of Church of the Gesù include the sumptuous side chapels, namely the Cappella di Sant'Andrea, the Saint Francis Xavier Chapel, and the Chapel of St. Ignatius, designed by Andrea Pozzo.
Address: Via degli Astalli 16, Rome, Puglia, Italy
From $ 39
Teatro dell'Opera di Roma
Rome's opera house, the Teatro dell'Opera di Roma, is a 19th-century theater in the city center and the Italian capital's main opera house.
The original theater opened in 1880 with the name Teatro Costanzi. It was later renamed the Teatro Reale dell'Opera and underwent some minor structural changes in the 1920s, and renamed again in 1946 as the Teatro dell'Opera. The theater was largely remodeled in the late 1950s to the structure that stands today.
The theater has five tiers of seating in a semicircle around the floor seating and facing the stage. Three of the tiers have theater boxes, while the uppermost two tiers have several graduated rows of seating. Like many great theaters, it is bedecked in red velvet and accented with gold. The current seating capacity is 1,600 people.
The theater hosts opera performances as well as ballet and other concerts. The seasons for each vary, as do ticket prices for various shows. There are tours of the opera house available, however, on Mondays from 10:00am-2:00pm.
Practical Info
During the summer months, the opera company performs outdoors at the Baths of Caracalla rather than inside the Teatro dell'Opera.
Address: Piazza Beniamino Gigli 1, Rome, Lazio 00184, Italy
Hours: Monday tours available10am-2pm
Admission: (Monday tours of the opera house) €10
From $ 149
Palazzo Valentini Domus Romane (Le Domus Romane di Palazzo Valentini)
When the 16th-century Palazzo Valentini underwent a major renovation in 2005, the magnificent remains of two ancient Roman villas and thermal baths dating from the 4th century AD were discovered underground. After years of additional excavation, this 20,000-square-foot Domus Romane complex is now open to the public.
The Basics
Because it was buried for newer palaces for centuries, the Domus Romane di Palazzo Valentini"”or Roman Houses of Palazzo Valentini"”archaeological site is well-preserved today, and visitors can still view original staircases, frescoes, mosaics, and inlaid marble pavement, which is protected by a glass floor. Multimedia light shows bring the ruins to life, revealing how these elegant villas"”owned by Imperial Rome's most powerful families"”once looked and offering visitors a glimpse into life in ancient Rome. In addition, a newly unearthed underground area opposite Trajan's Column holds the remains of a monumental public building; a virtual reconstruction of the column and its surrounding area show what they looked like during their heyday. These archaeological sites are only open to the public via a guided Roman Domus of Palazzo Valentini tour, so it's essential to book ahead.
Things to Know Before You Go
- This is a fascinating stop for anyone interested in ancient Rome, and the multimedia effects make it particularly engaging for older kids.
- The archaeological remains are spread out over a number of different levels, and visitors using a wheelchair must contact the site ahead of time to arrange entrance.
- Large bags and backpacks cannot be taken inside.
- You'll be spending your visit on your feet, so wear comfortable shoes.
How to Get There
Le Domus Romane di Palazzo Valentini archaeological site is located beneath the seat of Rome's Provincial Administration on Via IV Novembre near Piazza Venezia and the Roman Forums (Foro Traiano and Fori Imperiali). There are a number of bus routes that stop in Piazza Venezia, and the Colosseo metro stop is about a 10-minute walk away.
When to Get There
The Domus Romane is open daily except for Tuesdays and December 25, January 1, and May 1. In summer and on wet days, the tour doubles as an especially pleasant respite from the heat or rain.
Ancient Rome and Modern Technology
The Palazzo Valentini Domus Romane is one of a number of Roman archaeological sites that use light and sound effects to demonstrate the splendor of Imperial Rome; others to check out include the Ara Pacis and the Domus Aurea.
Address: Via IV Novembre, 119A, Rome, Italy
From $ 57
Zoomarine
On the Italian coast about 23 miles from Rome is Zoomarine, a theme park that's part Sea World and part water park and fun for all ages.
Zoomarine covers more than 86 acres, and gives visitors a chance to enjoy the adventurous rides of a water park in between watching live shows. There are two giant pools for swimming and playing in the water, one of which has several water slides. The other pool is more laid back, with lounge chairs lining the perimeter. Both pools have life guards on duty.
The animal portion of the park features seals and sea lions, birds of prey, and dolphins – all of which have demonstrations or shows visitors can see just how intelligent these animals are. There is also a show featuring acrobatic high-divers and a 4D cinema. For thrill-seekers, there is also a roller coaster called “Vertigo” and a few other amusement park rides (some of them in water).
Practical Info
A ticket to Zoomarine includes all the shows, rides, pools, water slides and attractions of the park, though there are optional extras for purchase – including photos with the animals and up-close animal encounters.
Address: Via dei Romagnoli, Torvaianica, Lazio 00040, Italy
Hours: Late March-mid-September; hours vary by attraction/area – opening time 10am, closing time from 5-7pm
Admission: day ticket - €30 adults, €24 children (3.2-4.2 feet in height; below 3.2 feet free)
From $ 31
Triton Fountain (Fontana del Tritone)
Piazza Barberini is easy to overlook, as it’s relatively small and surrounded by busy streets, but at its center is the Triton Fountain, a sculptural masterpiece by Gian Lorenzo Bernini.
The Triton Fountain, or Fontana del Tritone in Italian, was commissioned by Pope Urban VIII and built in 1642-1643 by Bernini. It was an outlet of the Acqua Felice aqueduct that the pope had just restored, and was the first public fountain Bernini designed that was free-standing.
The fountain features a large figure of Triton at its center, holding a conch shell to his mouth and blowing water out of it. Below him are four dolphins, whose tails form the base on which he kneels. Bernini also worked in the symbols of his patron, the Barberini family - there are bees carved into the dolphin tails.
The Barberini Palace is near the fountain on the square (today, it is home to the National Gallery of Ancient Art), and another Bernini fountain dedicated to Pope Urban VIII is not far away - it is known as the Fountain of the Bees.
Practical Info
There is another fountain in Rome with a similar name - Fountain of the Tritons - in front of Santa Maria in Cosmedin, the church where you’ll find the Mouth of Truth. That one is not a Bernini creation, so be sure you’re in Piazza Barberini to see the Bernini work.
Address: Piazza Barberini, Rome, Lazio, Italy
From $ 3
Trevi Fountain
The incredibly ornate Trevi Fountain is the most famous fountain in Rome—and perhaps in all of Italy. At the baroque masterpiece’s center stands the Greek sea god Oceanus, who is surrounded by Tritons, seahorses, and other figures from ancient Greek and Roman mythology. Visitors to the Eternal City flock to the Trevi Fountain, as it is internationally recognized thanks to its appearances in many films, and for the legendary good-luck connotations of throwing a coin into its waters.
The Basics
The Trevi Fountain (Fontana di Trevi) is set at the end of the restored Aqua Virgo aqueduct, which dates back to ancient Rome. Water cascades from spigots in several different places, and the palace behind the fountain was redesigned to include majestic columns and statues befitting the fountain below. Visitors jockey for a position from which to throw a coin over their shoulder, supposedly ensuring a return to Rome. Rome walking and bike tours are good ways to see the fountain up close.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Wear comfortable shoes to walk through central Rome's cobbled streets. Walking tours of Rome that include the Trevi Fountain also often visit sights such as the Spanish Steps and Piazza Navona, which are far enough apart to make comfortable shoes a must.
- Distracted tourists make easy targets for pickpockets, so keep your valuables close.
- The Trevi Fountain was the central monument in the movie “Three Coins in the Fountain” and played a memorable role in Federico Fellini’s “La Dolce Vita.”
How to Get There
The Trevi Fountain dominates the Piazza di Trevi in the historic center of Rome, not far from the Quirinal Palace. It's easiest to get there on foot or bicycle, given the narrow streets surrounding the fountain into which larger tour vehicles can't go. On the Metro, take line A to the Barberini stop.
When to Get There
The Trevi is an outdoor public fountain and is open year-round. Given its popularity, sometimes visitors have to wait their turn to admire the fountain, get a good picture, or get close enough for a coin toss. Early morning and evening visits can be quieter and more atmospheric, especially during Rome's less touristed winter months. To avoid crowds and get stunning lighting for your photos, visit at sunrise.
Throwing Coins Is a Charitable Act
Coins thrown into the Trevi Fountain add up quickly, amounting to roughly $3,600 (€3,000) per day. City officials gather the coins each night, and the money is given to a local charity called Caritas, which helps Rome's neediest citizens.
Address: Piazza di Trevi, Rome 00187, Italy
Admission: Free
From $ 3
Silvano Toti Globe Theatre
Located near the Villa Borghese in the leafy park of the same name, Rome’s answer to London’s Globe Theatre is built in the round, in the style of 16th-century Elizabethan London. Constructed of oak, the Globe opened in 2003 and its construction was financed by Silvano Toti, a wealthy patron of the Italian arts. Now under the eye of art director Gigi Proietti, the playhouse puts on a program of magical works by William Shakespeare between July and September. The roof of the theater is open to the elements and the interior has a capacity for an audience of 1,250. The circular seating is on different levels and balconies overlook the rectangular stage, which is surrounded by standing room for the cheapest ticket holders.
The box office is on Viale Canonica; ticket prices for evening performances at the Globe start at €10 and most plays are presented in Italian, with occasional productions in English. Otherwise the theater can be viewed as part of a tour of the Parco Borghese complex, which also includes the fabulous artworks of the Galleria Borghese, the Pietro Canonica Museum, the Bioparco—Rome’s zoo—and the Pincio Gardens.
Practical Info
Largo Aqua Felix, Villa Borghese, Rome. The season runs Jul–Sept, Tue–Sun, with performances beginning at 9pm. Tickets start at €10 and rise to €28. Access is on foot across the Parco Borghese. There’s car parking on Largo Picasso a few minutes’ walk away. The nearest Metro station is Line A to Flaminio; the nearest bus stop is at Piazzale Brasile. The box office on Viale Canonica is open daily Jun 18–end Sept, 3pm–5pm.
Address: Largo Aqua Felix, Villa Borghese, Rome, Lazio 00197, Italy
Hours: Jul–Sept Tue–Sun 9pm. The box office on Viale Canonica is open daily Jun 18–end Sept, 3pm–5pm
Admission: between €10 and €28
From $ 45
Trajan's Column
One of the most intricate ancient landmarks in Rome, the enormous Trajan's Column near Quirinal Hill was built in the second century to commemorate Emperor Trajan’s victory over the Dacians. The triumphal column is decorated with bas relief carvings that constitute a diary of battle scenes.
The Basics
Trajan’s Column tells the story of war triumphs via an intricate frieze that spirals up the column, running chronologically from base to top. The column was originally topped with a statue of Emperor Trajan, but it was replaced with a sculpture of Saint Peter in the 16th century by Pope Sixtus V. The column contains a staircase leading to a viewing platform, but the stairs are closed to visitors; to see the bas relief carvings up close, visit Rome’s Museum of Roman Civilization, which displays plaster casts of the scenes.
The bas relief scenes on Trajan’s Column are difficult to interpret, so join a tour with a guide who can explain the frieze in detail. Private and small-group walking tours of ancient Rome visit the column, as do tours by bike or Segway. Most ancient Rome tours also include skip-the-line access to the nearby Colosseum and Roman Forum.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Ancient Rome tours require a significant amount of time outside, so be sure to wear a hat and sunscreen.
- The column is visible only from the outside, and is accessible to wheelchair users.
- The column is lit at night, so can be seen during either a daytime or night tour.
- To see the bas relief scenes at the top of the column, bring a pair of mini binoculars for an “up-close” view.
How to Get There
Trajan’s Column is located on the side of Quirinal Hill adjacent the Trajan’s Forum area along Via Quattro Novembre, a five-minute walk from Colosseo metro station (line B).
When to Get There
Visit Trajan’s Column during early spring or late fall, when the temperatures are mild in Rome, and crowds are smaller. This sight can be enjoyed during a daytime or nighttime tour, as the column is illuminated at night.
Friezes in the Museum of Roman Civilization
Roman history enthusiasts can see the entire frieze cycle up close at the Museum of Roman Civilization in the outlying EUR quarter of Rome. Plaster-cast replicas of the battle scenes are on display in horizontal rows at eye level, along with a vast collection of original pieces and casts of artifacts dating from the founding of Rome to the fourth century.
Address: Via 4 Novembre, 94, Rome, Province of Rome 00187, Italy
From $ 53