Amazing things to do in Rome

Immortalised in the 1953 Audrey Hepburn film Roman Holiday, the romance of Rome is truly captivating. And we think that our Italy holidays really capture some of the city's magical essence. As the sun bathes the architecture, you can stroll through Rome and lose yourself in the hustle and bustle of the streets, marvel at some of the world's most magnificent monuments and artwork, as well as follow in the footsteps of some of history's greatest figures. As well as take some time to soak it all in and relax in the city's wonderful trattorias and restaurants - eating and drinking first-class Italian cuisine and wine, while people watching. 

On our Grand Tour of Italy, we get to spend a full day exploring Rome's greatest attractions, but you'll also have some leisure time to wander the city and discover much more of Rome at your own pace. To help you make the most of your free time in Rome, we have some suggestions of the best things to do in Rome while you are there and hope that our mini itinerary will help you go on your very own Rome tour.

Palatine Hill

Of all the things to do in Rome, perhaps the best way to experience the city is by foot - and Rome is relatively easy to navigate. As the sun rises on the city, start your day by visiting Palatine Hill, which according to Roman mythology is where the founders of Rome, Romulus and Remus, were found and raised by a female wolf, and later began to build the city on this site. Be sure to see the ruins of the House of Augustus, the first great Caesar of Rome.

Roman Forum

Just a short walk away is the impressive Roman Forum, where you can walk amongst the ruins of some of the most important buildings of the Roman Empire, treading in the footsteps of the legendary Julius Caesar, Mark Anthony and Cicero, marvelling at the grandeur of this fascinating historical site. Keep walking past the Altar of the Fatherland and pay a visit to the wonderfully preserved Pantheon, an iconic temple in which the great Renaissance painter Raphael is entombed.

Spanish Steps

After a spot of lunch and perhaps a refreshing Tartufo (truffle) ice cream dessert, make your way to the famous Spanish Steps to snap some photographs for your Roman holiday album, before visiting the beautifully sculpted Villa Borghese Gardens, 148 acres of lush greenery which are a delight to take a leisurely stroll through.

Borghese Art Gallery

At the centre of the Gardens is the Villa Borghese, which houses the magnificent Borghese Art Gallery. Masterpieces of the collection include Bernini’s dynamic sculptures of David, and Apollo and Daphne; Raphael’s painting ‘Lady with a Unicorn’; and Caravaggio’s ‘St John the Baptist’.

Trevi Fountain 

As the evening draws in, make your way back to the centre of Rome, taking the opportunity to see the legendary Trevi Fountain lit up at night. Listen to the trickle of the water and the buzz in the air at one of the city's most treasured spots. Remember to throw a coin over your shoulder into the Fountain for good fortune and a return to Rome! All the coins are collected to support local causes, so even if your good fortune doesn’t appear, you know you’ll be helping someone less fortunate.

Piazza Navona

The gorgeous Piazza Navona is the perfect place for a delicious evening meal, a few drinks and a spot of people watching. The centrepiece of the Piazza is Bernini’s ornate Fountain of the Four Rivers, which features sculptures of four river gods representing the Danube, Ganges, Nile and Rio de la Plata. 

We have several holidays to Italy, speak to one of our travel experts today or download our Worldwide brochure here.