Best Things to do in Rome in 2025: A Complete Guide
Rome is not just a city; it is a living museum. Often called the Eternal City, it is where the past and present coexist in perfect harmony. With its ancient ruins, grand piazzas, world-class art, and irresistible cuisine, Rome remains one of the most timeless travel destinations in the world. It is where empires and civilisations were born and torn, where art was revolutionary and the city which gave birth to much of the history that we read today. Whether you love art, culture, or history, food or simply a bustling city, Rome has everything to offer. Whether you are wandering through the shadow of the Colosseum, sipping espresso near the Spanish Steps, or admiring Renaissance masterpieces in tucked-away churches, every corner of the city tells a story that spans thousands of years. From exploring iconic Rome tourist attractions like the Vatican and Trevi Fountain to indulging in traditional Roman pasta and gelato, there’s no shortage of memorable things to do in Rome. If you’re planning your first visit or returning for more, this Rome travel guide will walk you through the must-see sights, local favourites, and insider tips to make the most of your time visiting Rome, whether it’s for a few days or a full Italian adventure. The best time to visit Rome depends on what you want to do in Rome. You can visit this city throughout the year. Spring is widely considered the best time to visit Rome. The weather is mild and comfortable, with temperatures ranging between 12°C and 21°C (54°F to 70°F). Flowers bloom across the city’s gardens and piazzas, making it perfect for walking tours, sightseeing, and al fresco dining. It’s also a great time to explore major Rome tourist attractions like the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Vatican Museums without the intense summer heat. Autumn is also a great time to visit Rome. With crisp air, golden light, and manageable tourist crowds, autumn offers a breezy and perfect vibe. If you’re looking for a quieter but equally beautiful alternative to spring, this is it. Rome buzzes with energy in summer, but it comes at a cost, in terms of temperature, higher prices and tourist volume. Daytime highs can exceed 35°C (95°F), and long queues at popular attractions are common. That said, this is festival season, and you’ll find concerts, open-air cinema, and night tours throughout the city. If you plan to visit Rome in summer, make sure that you book hotels and tours in advance. While winter in Rome is chilly and occasionally rainy, it’s also the quietest and most affordable time to visit. With fewer tourists, you’ll have more space to enjoy landmarks like St. Peter’s Basilica or the Pantheon at your own pace. Also, Rome lights up beautifully during Christmas, offering seasonal markets and events. Rome isn’t a city you just visit, it’s a city you feel. Every cobblestone street, crumbling ruin, and bustling piazza has a story to tell. If you’re planning your itinerary and wondering about the top things to do in Rome, here’s a heartfelt guide to the must-see places of interest in Rome that left me in awe, and will likely do the same for you. No guide to ancient Rome for first-time visitors is complete without a visit to the Colosseum in Rome. This iconic amphitheatre, also known as the Flavian Amphitheatre, stands as a symbol of Rome’s imperial past. Constructed around 70-80 AD, it could hold an estimated 50,000–80,000 spectators, making it the largest amphitheatre of its time. The Colosseum was primarily used for gladiatorial contests, public spectacles, and other theatrical performances. The breathtaking architecture and engineering genius of the amphitheatre are evident in its tiered seating, underground passages, and advanced mechanisms used to stage grand events. Today, the Colosseum stands as a testament to ancient Roman civilisation’s engineering prowess and cultural significance. A visit to this grand monument allows you to envision the roar of the crowd and the bravery of the gladiators who once graced its sands. With the Colosseum tickets, visitors can explore the amphitheatre’s interior, witness its intricate architecture, and gain insight into the lives of the ancient Romans. Opening Hours: Daily: 8:30 AM – 7:15 PM (Last admission one hour before closing) Closed: 25 December and 1 January The Roman Forum, located in the heart of Rome, is an enchanting archaeological site that offers a glimpse into the political, religious, and social life of ancient Rome. Today, this vast archaeological site remains one of the most captivating ancient Roman attractions. Once a bustling centre of civic activity, this sprawling area is now a captivating open-air museum, with ruins of temples, basilicas, and government buildings that bear witness to the city’s illustrious past. As you walk among the ancient stones, you can imagine the echoes of historical events that shaped the destiny of an empire. The Temple of Saturn, dedicated to the god of agriculture, stands as a testament to the religious devotion of the Roman people. The Arch of Titus, celebrating the emperor’s triumph in Jerusalem, recounts military achievements. The Curia Julia, the former meeting place of the Roman Senate, resonates with the voices of influential statesmen and decisions that shaped the course of history. The ruins of the Basilica Aemilia and the Temple of Castor and Pollux evoke the bustling marketplace and the religious fervour of the past. The entry here is included with your Colosseum tickets. Located within Vatican City, the smallest independent state in the world, the Vatican Museums house an extraordinary collection of art and historical artefacts amassed by various popes throughout the centuries. If you’re wondering what to see in the Vatican Museums, the journey begins at the spiral Bramante Staircase, opening the gates to some of the most iconic artistic creations in the world. The museums are a treasure trove of masterpieces from different periods, cultures, and civilisations. The journey through the Vatican Museums begins at the magnificent spiral staircase, known as the Bramante Staircase, which leads visitors to a world of artistic wonders.
