This post is the best things to do in Rome for first time visitors.
Rome is the capital city of Italy. It is also one of my favorite cities in the world because I just love the history, culture, shopping, and food there. I have been to Rome a couple of times and would love to go back and spend a lot longer so I can explore the city at a slower pace.
During my initial days of trip planning on Rome, I noticed there are a lot of museums and historical sites to visit and 2-3 days trip is not going to be enough. But since I traveled for shorter periods, I was able to narrow down the must dos and have listed them below.
You can definitely explore the city on your own or book tours. I personally found Rome is best explored on your own for the main attractions and then add in a couple of group tours such as a food & wine tasting or a cooking class. You get to meet other travelers during the tour as well as learn about the rich history of the city.
Top Things to do in Rome for First Time Visitors
- Colosseum
The Colosseum is one of the most iconic landmarks in all of Rome as well as around the world. It is also one of the 7 Wonders of the World and the largest ancient amphitheater in the world. The Colosseum is an absolutely one of the best things to do in Rome for first time visitors. I enjoyed learning the history of how it was an entertainment venue that hosted gladiator fights. I recommend booking this tour for the best experience as you get a guided tour where you can learn so much more of the history of the Colosseum.
- Trevi Fountain
Trevi Fountain is a masterpiece in the form of a fountain. It is the largest fountain in the city. There is no entry fees to visit the Trevi Fountain, however, if you would like a personalized experience, click here for the underground guided tour.
Tossing a coin in the Trevi Fountain is a popular tradition that is said to bring good luck, love or a visit back to Rome! I tossed one coin during my first visit (my dropped my phone in their too!) and did end up returning a second time to the city. So I guess the tradition is true!
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- Pantheon
The Pantheon is one of the best-preserved of all Ancient Roman buildings, in large part because it has been in continuous use throughout its history. The word Pantheon means a temple dedicated to all Gods. The tour itself won’t take you long, it took me less than 40 minutes which was not including the line at the entrance. I purchased my ticket from their website here.
- Piazza Navona
Right next to the Pantheon is the Piazza Navona which is basically an open public space square with 3 fountains in the center as the main attraction. There are some restaurants at Piazza Navona which makes it ideal to grab some lunch and catch a break from the walking.
- The Vatican City
The Vatican City is an absolute must and hands down one of the best things to do in Rome for first time visitors. It is the smallest country in the world and the headquarters of the Roman Catholic Church. There is so much to see and learn of the history, a day or 2 at the Vatican are a must. I suggest booking well in advance as tickets do sell out and it is an extremely popular place. I booked this tour for my visit.
- Spanish Steps
The Spanish Steps are another important landmark in Rome that are not to be missed. They are longest and widest steps in Europe. Keep in mind, you are not allowed to sit on the steps anymore but you can definitely climb them up and down. There were guards at all times enforcing this. There is no entry fees to visit the Spanish Steps, you can go there at any time of the day.
- Galleria Borghese
Galleria Borghese is a beautiful art gallery housed in the former Villa Borghese Pinciana. In addition to the stunning collection of art in the gallery, the outdoors landscape is sight in itself. The highlights include statues by Bernini and paintings by some of the world renowned artists. Definitely worth a visit and a great way to spend a slower afternoon in Rome. Click here for the tickets.
- Monument to Victor Emmanuel II
You can’t miss this one! It is literally located in the center of the city. It was built to honor Victor Emmanuel II, a leader who helped unite Italy and was the first king of the reunified Italy in 1871. I didn’t get a chance to go in, however, you can get stunning views of Rome just by climbing the stairs (there are a lot of them!).
- Food and Wine tour
One of my favorite things to do in a new city is a food tour. This allows me to try a variety of some of the local cuisines at restaurants that are not so touristy as well as meet other travelers. A food and wine tour in Rome is exactly that. You get to go on guided tour of the city, meet other travelers, eat some delicious food, and learn about the city. I always try to add some sort of group tour to my itinerary, especially if I am traveling solo. Click here for tour.
- Cooking class
Another one of my favorite activities while traveling is to take a local cooking class. There is no better way to learn about a cuisine right from the locals. If you do end up taking a group cooking class, you might end up making some new friends! I also suggest adding a cooking class to your itinerary because it is a nice break from all the walking and sightseeing. Here are 2 best options that I found Option 1 and Option 2.
- Shopping
One of my favorite areas to shop around was right by the Spanish Steps. I did a quick search on my iPhone maps for shopping near me and several designer stores popped up. So I just started walking around and going in & out of stores that caught my eye. The most streets for shopping are: Via dei Condotti, Via del Corso, and Via Borgognona. Shopping in Rome was one of my absolute favorites as they had some unique high-end and budget friendly stores. If only I had more space in my luggage!
Rome is an absolute must visit in my opinion as it has so much to offer for everyone. There’s history, culture, art, shopping, food, nightlife and so much more. I recommend dedicating at least 5 days for a trip to Rome, however, if you are short on time, I suggest you start with the above mentioned things to do. As always, I hope you enjoy your trip to Rome and feel free to drop your questions or comments below.
SAVE ME- BEST THINGS TO DO IN ROME FOR FIRST TIME
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