The minute I landed in Rome, I knew it was going to be short of amazing. As soon as I stepped off the plane, I could totally smell that espresso wafting through the air, hear those Vespas zipping past on those darling cobblestone roads, and sense that history surrounding me.
Rome is no typical city—it’s more like an aura, like an existing museum, and for real, it really does feel like it’s frozen in its own little bubble. So if you’re even considering coming to explore the Eternal City (the nickname the locals give it every now and again), prepare to be blown away.
Here’s my complete insider’s guide to the coolest things to see and experience in Rome, filled with seven days of pasta, piazzas, and pure awesomeness.
1. Visit the Colosseum – it’s Rome’s iconic landmark!
Okay, so let’s start off with this classic, and to be honest, it’s totally worth it. I went to the Colosseum first, and wow, it’s even better in person than it looks like in pictures on the internet. Standing beneath this old theater gave me the major chills. I splurg-ed on a skip-the-line tour (do it!) and absorbed all the tales of gladiators, emperors, and that crazy engineering that has allowed this structure to stand for nearly 2,000 years.
If possible, go early this morning or at dusk—the light is really otherworldly, and there are significantly less people around. And for sure, dress appropriately in comfy footwear. Those ancient stones aren’t to be trifled with!
2. Visit the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill
Next to the Colosseum, you have Roman Forum and Palatine Hill. That was essentially the center of ancient Rome—the downtown atmosphere, you know? Sort of like an maze with all those ruins, but once you learn your way around, it really is like you’re among history. I even sat on a crumbling column (not always the brightest thing to do, I admit, but who cares) and could envision senators strolling by with those toga-swinging things.
Palatine Hill has a great view of the Colosseum and the Forum, so you have to visit. And if you enjoy history like I do, bring a guided app along or have a tour guide with you to learn as much as you can.
3. Make a wish at the Trevi Fountain
You absolutely cannot visit Rome without stopping at the Trevi Fountain. I stopped by at about 10 p.m. after having some supper, and really, that is the best time to visit it. When it is completely lit up, it’s amazing, and there are fewer people around.
So, if you throw a coin over your left shoulder using your right hand, you’ll end up back in Rome. I threw two coins, just to be safe, you understand?
4. Get Lost in the Streets of Trastevere
The one place in the city that is really relaxing is the Trastevere district. It’s on the other side of the Tiber River, and it has this really cozy, villagey atmosphere even though it’s smack dab in the middle of things. Imagine ivy on the houses, little restaurants called trattorias, cobblestone streets, and street performers on nearly every corner.
I spent the entire afternoon just strolling about, browsing those sweet little boutiques, and nursing cappuccinos at these quaint bistros. Then there was aperitivo, the equivalent of happy hour for Rome. An iced Moretti beer and some olives, and it was time to people-watch. It was pure heaven.
5. Visit the Vatican and ascend up St. Peter’s Basilica!
Vatican City is its own separate nation, but you’ve got to visit it while you’re in Rome. I booked an early morning tour that got us through the Vatican Museums, the Sistine Chapel, and St. Peter’s Basilica. That ceiling in the Sistine Chapel by Michelangelo? Absolutely mind-blowing. You may get a sore neck from looking up, but believe me, it’s well worth it.
One of the highlights of my trip was going up into the dome of St. Peter’s. It’s no easy walk, though—551 steps if you don’t use the elevator—but the view afterwards is simply stunning. You have this incredible panoramic view of Rome, and it really hits you with the realization of how much history is concentrated there.
6. Eat every bite (seriously, every single one)
Let’s talk about the grub. In all honesty, it completely needs a shout-out. Roman cuisine is really simple but loaded with flavor, and that is really because of the fresh produce. I visited this small place called Da Felice near Testaccio, and it completely flipped things around for me. No joke.
I’d have something different to snack on each day: carbonara, amatriciana, fried artichokes, Roman pizza (thin, crispy stuff), and plenty of gelato. Here’s one bit of advice: if the gelato is piled high like whipped cream, it is probably the cheap variety. Opt for the places where it’s piled up relatively short and looks natural.
And espresso! I completely spaced out about how many small cups I consumed throughout the day. Romans just shoot it back at the counter like it’s this fast little habit they have. By the third day, I was completely into that too.
7. Visit the Pantheon – An Architectural Marvel
So, one afternoon, I found myself at the Pantheon. I knew it was really old, but you couldn’t have told me it’s actually the best-preserved ancient building in Rome. The gigantic dome, the oculus (which is really just this huge hole in the ceiling), and the incredible symmetry—it’s all so breathtaking.
You know the best part? The rain pours through the oculus, and the floor is sloping, so it drains off by itself. The Romans really knew what they were doing!
So I was hanging out at this Piazza della Rotonda, having a cappuccino while this street performer was playing the violin in the warm late afternoon sunshine. It was completely one of those “pinch me” moments.
8. Enjoy the Piazzas and People-Watching
Rome’s piazzas are where it’s at! You’ll find these open public spaces throughout the city, and each one has its own character. Piazza Navona is really lively and artistic, filled with fountains and lots of street performers. Campo de’ Fiori is a bustling market by day but an awesome place to hang out at night.
Honestly, my favorite part was probably Piazza di Spagna at sunset. The Spanish Steps were incredible during that golden hour, and there was just this relaxed atmosphere in the air. I sat for a while, wrote some things in my journal, and absorbed how Rome was just going about its business.
9. Walk along the Tiber River at sunset
If you become overwhelmed by too much sightseeing, you can always relax by taking a walk. The Tiber River is really great to hang out on and enjoy the essence of the city. I was along the river while it was getting dusk, and really, the way the light reflected off the bridges and domes was simply breathtaking.
They have these great pop-up restaurants and bars along the river during the summer. The atmosphere is really relaxed, laid-back, and it’s the best way to end off an afternoon of sightseeing.
10. What about a day trip to Ostia Antica or Tivoli?
If you have a few days to spare, you absolutely need to get out of the city for a little while. I took a day trip to Tivoli where Villa d’Este is, and those fountains are incredible. It’s honestly like walking into a fairytale garden, no kidding.
Ostia Antica is also an amazing place, like the relaxed cousin of Pompeii. You can ride the train there within thirty minutes, completely immersed in an experience of daily life back at ancient Rome. I walked along those ancient Roman streets and even visited old bathhouses and bakeries.
Ultimate last-minute tips for exploring Rome
Before I conclude, let me pass along some quick tips based on what I learned.
- Walk as much as you can: Rome is best experienced on foot. You’ll discover hidden corners you’d miss otherwise.
- Bring a refillable water bottle: Public fountains with great, cold water are all over the city. They’re nasoni and they’re absolute lifesavers if you’re visiting when it’s warm.
- Learn a few Italian phrases: Even by saying hello with a simple ciao and grazie, you can really connect with people.
- Stay in the center: It’s really convenient because it saves you energy and time going around.
- Relax, man: it didn’t happen quickly in Rome, either, and you don’t have to see it all at once. Simply just walk around.
Is Rome actually so great?
Absolutely! Rome is one of those destinations that lingers with you even after you’ve left. It has this incredible combination—old and new, crazy and relaxed, big and homey. I thought I’d just check off some history, but I really felt like I tapped into something that’s always been there.
Whether you’ve ever been there or it’s your first visit, Rome always has some surprise awaiting you to blow your mind. So, by all means—toss that coin into the fountain, savor each bite you take, and have the Eternal City cast its spell on you. Believe me, it certainly did me!
