32 FUN things to Do in Rome - Vespa Rides and Gladiators

41 Fun Things to Do in Rome – Vespa Rides, Gladiators and Tickets you need to Prepare

Looking for some fun things to do in Rome? You just found the right place.

Rome, known as the Eternal City, has plenty of historical monuments and buildings to visit and see, along with various activities in Rome Italy. Normally, many people just think that Rome is a romantic place, but don’t let them fool you!

This article is part of our big, detailed guide on spending 7 days in Rome.

It is a very cool city for traveling with friends or even solo. We know so many that you can even get bored.

That is why we searched and found 32 FUN and COOLEST things to do in Rome. Because we all need some joy and fun while our travelings, right?!

Hidden Gem Update: At the end I added one UNIQUE gem you won’t find anywhere else. Keep scrolling, thank me later =)

Rome is a city where you can see and still feel the ancient ages:

  • the Colosseum is a must see in Rome.(important: get your ticket due to limited entrance!)
  • the Pantheon (an ancient god’s temple)
  • churches,
  • catacombs

These are just a few of the incredible attractions Rome has to offer. And don’t forget to explore the famous Appian Way, one of the ancient Roman roads that has witnessed centuries of history, and the intriguing Domus Aurea, the ‘Golden House’ of Nero.

Now, let’s explore what to do in Rome Italy outside of its famous landmarks.

You will feel the ancient ages and the glamour of non-forgotten times all around.

Also, at the end of the article, you will find the fun things to do in Rome at night with the best cocktail bars. We put every epic and cool things to do in Rome on a map.

We also added all the must things to do in Rome, as well as my favorite restaurants and coffee shops. Make sure you read our detailed guide on where to stay in Rome (with map and scams to avoid!).

Best Fun Things To Do in Rome, Italy

(Last updated in 2024)

So, let’s have some fun between Gladiators, vespa rides, cooking classes with Nonnas, and everything in between. And if you’re looking to extend your adventure, consider planning a day trip to nearby gems to make the most of your time in and around Rome.

In this list we have fun activities in Rome for families, groups, even solo-travellers.

Many of the tours and sights you can book with Get Your Guide. I wrote a review of Get Your Guide and how to use it step-by-step.

We will start with a fun way to discover the city.

1. Drive around with a Fiat 500 (or get a driver!)

Loving how cool do Fiat 500 look? Imagine driving this old school bad boy through Rome!

A funny Italian experience which will never be forgotten.

For us, this is one of the absolute most unique things to do in Rome.

With Driving tour by Vintage Fiat 500 you can take charge of the streets of the Eternal City with a candy-colored fiat 500.

The tour takes you around the most scenic sights and gives you a different perspective to see  and feel the city.

Good to know: You can actually drive the FIAT 500 by yourself. Yet, you need to have a valid drivers license for the EU or an international drivers license.

If you do not have a drivers license, you can also get a driver which is a guide at the same time.

My recommendation: Get the driver and relax to see the city. Traffic in Rome is quite a madness.

Book your Fiat 500 here

Fiat 500 rental in Rome - unique things to do

2. Enter majestic Colosseum (BUT pre-book!!!)

It is obvious: enter the Colosseum! It was my personal highlight when visiting Rome.

However, the entrance is limited for 3.000 visitors per day “only“.

You need to book your ticket in advance.

My absolute best recommendation: Take a cheap tour through the Amphitheatre!

We joined this tour “Skip-the-Line Colosseum, Forum, and Palatine Hill Tour“. You can book it on Get Your Guide or with Walks of Italy here.

IT. WAS. AWESOME! Here is the hard facts:

  • guided tour
  • skip the line ticket for Coloseum, Forum and Palatine Hill
  • Head set
  • 3 hours
  • 35€ per person
  • Takes place every day (but book in advance!!!)

Our guide Lara knows everything, just ask her! The tour was 35€ and went on for 3 hours. We received the Skip The Line Ticket and even a head-set.

I have never in my life joined a tour with a headset. Once you are here, you will be happy you did! The masses of crowds is insane.

Anyway, the tour was amazing! You will enter and go up to the seats. Lara explains the history, the background and has even a few fun facts of the Colosseum and Rome as an Empire.

100% worth it and recommended!

Important: Book as soon as you can your ticket! Tickets are sold out fast.

Book your Colosseum Tour here

Compare prices at: Get Your Guide | Walks of Italy

Colosseum Skip The Line Ticket Inside the Colosseum in Rome; you need to book a ticket before!

Headset Tour at Colosseum in Rome

3. Visit the Colosseum after the Gates have Closed

Want to make it even more special?

Well, here you go!

Colosseum night tours are some of the most exclusive and enjoyable ways to visit Rome’s most famous ruin.

The crowds are smaller, the views better, and the experience much more intimate.

You’ll start near the Jewish Ghetto for a look at the Teatro di Marcello, an ancient theater that looks like a miniature Colosseum, then head over to the main event just as the last of the daytime crowds empty out.

You’ll experience the arena in all its glory as you explore the nearly empty ruin with your expert guide telling hair-raising tales of its bloody past. Your experience won’t just be more intimate, it will be much more comfortable now that the sun has gone down.

Book Night Tour Colosseum here

4. Skate and feel like Bart Simpson

Alright, let us cover some more unique things, and less obvious stuff.

There are different areas for different levels, and there is also a skateboard school.
Have fun skate boarding park rome

5. Discover the Roman street art

Ostiense is known as the underground neighborhood in Rome and one of the coolest places for fun things to do in Rome Italy.

It’s not only famous for its street art but also its vibrant atmosphere. Wander around the streets of Ostiense and be amazed by graffiti from international urban artists, such as Ron English, Jim Avignon, Malo Farfan.

6. Ghost Tour

Curious about the spooky stories of ghosts running around Rome?

Hear the legends of these historical places, and you might even see a ghost or two.

Brave enough to take this ghost tour in the heart of Rome?

Book your Ghost Tour here

Pantheon Tour in Rome

7. Cuddle with Romeo

No, we are not talking about Romeo from Romeo and Juliet (that is in Verona!), but a cute, fluffy cat.

Romeow is a cat café which not only has cats to cuddle, but also amazing food.

(you just have to love that pun!)

Enjoy your breakfast, lunch or dinner and… play with the cats!

8. People watching on Spanish stairs

The Spanish stairs are one of the mandatory stops when in Rome.

Once there, practice your people watching skills. Is that a skill??

Anyway, it is very funny!

From young girls trying to model to thousands of sellers, couples, and tourists from all over the world.

Don’t forget your camera.

Remember, you are actually not allowed to eat or drink at the Spanish Steps.

Spanish Steps in Rome; one of the most romantic things to do in Rome for couples

Look around at Spanish stairs Rome

9. American style Brunch

Update: This restaurant is temporarily closed.

Cinecaffé is located in Villa Borghese park, the main park in Rome.

This café offers brunch every Sunday in an American style.

From eggs to carrot cakes, all you need to enjoy your brunch in a different way.

As a tourist, this may sound odd as you are in Italy, but for locals? Think about it…

10. Change your point of view

See Saint Peter’s church with a different point of view.

From Buco della Serratura Priorato dei Cavalieri di Malta, you can see Saint Peter’s church from a keyhole.

Not easy to find, but totally worthy!

Update: This hole got really famous. There was even a queue last time we have been visiting. Anyways, still worth it.

Vatican City Through a Hole

11. Drive a Vespa

Okay, okay…how about a Vespa ride?

Take an old Vespa for a ride exploring Rome. You can fulfill your dream!

Rent a Vespa and drive along Rome streets.

Not experience riding a scooter? We seriously recommend NOT to drive a scooter in Rome if you are an inexperienced driver. Again traffic is mad here to drive by yourself.

Then we recommend to join scooter tours. Just sit on the back and enjoy the ride.

Take a vespa ride around Rome

12. Become a Gladiator

Enroll to the Gladiator school and learn how to fight as a Gladiator!

If you need any inspiration beforehand, just watch Russel Crowe in his epic movie “Gladiator“, that will help!

13. Watch an AS Roma match

When in Rome, do as the Romans do…

That means to see a football match of the local AS Roma team.

“Calcio” (Italian for football) is very important for Romans, even for women!

Take your chance to go to the AS Roma stadium or, at least, watch the match in a bar. Italian’s, as many European, are crazy about football. Join in, it can be big fun. Just make sure you support the right team!

14. Discover the Art district

San Lorenzo has this special bohemian vibe all around.

This is due to the Sapienza University, which is super close.

This neighborhood has plenty of underground bars with live music, cafés, hip discos…

And also lot of artisan shops!

15. Enjoy a panoramic view

Monte Mario is the highest hill in Rome.

Located on the northwest side of the city, it is the best place for a panoramic view.

Bring some picnic with you, and relax while watching the sunset.

16. Unique way to understand the City (only in Summer!)

The Show at Forum Augusto brings ancient Roman houses back to life! You will get a much much better understanding of the layout of ancient Rome.

See the photo below to get an idea

Using laser and other light effects, you will be able to see how ancient roman houses looked like.

It is a fascinating new form to learn historical facts – without the wikipedia-boring chatter-bla-bla.

The show takes place 1 hour and costs 19€. You need to book your ticket at Tiqets.com.

Choose at time slot between 9pm and 11pm. Show the voucher at the entrance, and pick the language of your audio guide.

Let the show begin!

This is also great for families with children from 8 and above – when interested in history.

My own story: I was not planning to attend this show since I had no idea it took place. On my first night I walked by the Forum Augusto and saw the show. You can see the lights, but hear nothing. The guests get the audio guide. So I bought a ticket for the next night – fantastic! I wish every city with big history would do these things!!

Book your Ticket here

 Tickets for Forum of Augustus Evening Show

17. Jump the queue at the Vatican Museum

There is nothing more boring than…queuing!

If you just want to skip the line for the Vatican Museum, the Sistine Chapel, and the Roman Forum, which is usually loooooooong, just get a guided tour.

You won’t have to queue, plus you will get plenty of extra information!

Make sure you book your Skip The Line Ticket ahead of time. We recommend at least 7 days before!

Skip the line at Vatican Museum here

Skip The Line at Vatican Museum

18. Learn how to cook… with the Nonna!

Once in Rome, take the opportunity to go inside a grandma’s apartment. And learn how to cook roman specialties!

The most memorable, fun, and hands-on way to spend an evening, this Rome cooking class by Walks Of Italy gives you a chance to enjoy an authentic culinary experience and learn some tricks for your own kitchen.

Your evening starts with prosecco, traditional Italian aperitivi and conversation with your fellow students and the local chefs who teach the class.

Good to know: Walks Of Italy is a small Italian tour company. They run unique tours in Florence, Rome and Venice. We highly recommend them!

Book your Cooking Class here

Learn how to cook with the Grandma

19. Bargain at a Flea Market

Have fun bargaining at this second hand market. Porta Portese is the biggest flea market in Rome. and it’s one of the cool things in Rome you don’t want to miss.

You can find lots of second hand clothes, souvenirs, and so on every Sunday. On a sunny day, expect it to be crowded. We recommend to go early to avoid the big crowd.

20. Get to know Rome by bike

Join a bike tour or walking tour to be able to see the old ruins present in the countryside in less time.

A bike tour is one of my favorite ways to see the city. Any city in Europe really – I absolutely love bike tours…

Why?

With the guided bike tour or walking tour, you will learn a lot of fun facts, meet more people, and go to a few spots you would not notice when walking by.

Book your Bike Tour here

21. Open air cinema

During summer season, Casa del cinema offers free open air cinema.

It is located at the ground of Villa Borghese park, the main park in  Rome.

Most films are just in Italian, but there are some which are in the original version.

Check out all the program at Casa del cinema website.

22. Catacombs: Visiting a Cript of Skulls

Ok this might be creepy, and not even fun.

In Santa Maria della Concezione dei Cappuccini Church, a church near Piazza Barberini, you can find skeletal remains.

There are more than 3700 capuchin friars bodies remaining.

Room after room, you will see skulls, bone chandeliers…

A total different experience!

For sensitive people…we do not recommend it.

The Crypta Tour takes place every day at 9AM and 2PM. Make sure you book ahead of time due to limited entrances!

Book your Catacombs Tour here

Compare rates at: Walks of Italy | Get Your Guide

23. Open air concert

If, by any chance, you are in Rome for the 1st of May, you have to visit the Primo Maggio concert.

It is a free open air concert at San Giovanni square.

This musical highlight is a wonderful reflection of the Italian music scene.

Lots of people from all over Italy come to the city just for this concert!

Feel the music

24. Refresh in a water park!

Just during summer season, there is the possibility to go to a Water Park in the eternal city.

Good way to refresh! Rome in summer can be suuuuper hot.

So when coming here in August, going to the Water Park is a good call!

Find all the information in the hydromania website.

25. July sounds extra good

Almost all months sound great to visit Rome, but July has an extra argument to count in: awesome concerts at the Auditorium Music Park. It’s one of the top things to do in Roma during the summer.

The Music Association in Rome, called Auditorium, has organized open air concerts during July.

Check out the events calendar and plan your trip around that great concert.

26. Italian food feast

Italian food in Rome is to die for!

Prepare your taste buds for a delicious Rome Food Tour with Pizza-Making, Trattoria Tastings & Gelato.

Book your Food Tour here

Pizza Tour in Rome

27. Taste a wine, no wait, a good wine!

Located in one of the most hipster neighborhoods, San Lorenzo.

Il Sori offers a wide range of Italian wines. Slow down and taste authentic Italian flavors.

Wine tasting Barcelona

Things for couples to do in Rome

Want some fun things to do in Rome for couples? Of course, it goes without saying: Rome is romantic.

Just think about the word itself: ROMANTIC…ROM-ANTIC.

Noticed?

The absolute #1 one of the most romantic things to do in Rome is the Trevi Fountain. Come here, it is worth it.

Trevi Fountain - throw your coin and make a wish

28. Check if your partner is lying to you

“Boca della Verità” is a face carved in Marble which is known as a lie detector.

The legend says: If you tell a lie with your hand on the mouth’s sculpture it would be bitten off.

Do you dare to try?

We warned you…

Mouth of Truth in Rome

29. Get lost in Villa Borghese park

Villa Borghese is a great park in the city center.

It is the place to get lost, refill your energy, or just lie under some shadow during summer season.

You can find plenty of activities :

  • walks
  • mini car rental
  • bike rental

There is also the Galleria Borghese, an Art gallery with Caravaggio, Gian Lorenzo Bernini, and Titian paintings.

Also in the park, you can find cafés and bistrots in case you are hungry.

30. Smell passionate stories

Parco Savello, also known as Giardino degli Aranci, is a lovely park full of orange trees.

It offers one of the best views of the roman skyline. You know, besides Monte Mario.

Walk around and smell the passionate stories which took place right here.

This park is so beautiful that has seen lot of stolen kisses.
Oranges with stories...smell them!

31. Hide in a natural salty cave

Have you ever been in a salty cave?

Salty caves are not very known, but they provide lot of good properties for our bodies and mind.

It is not only impressive, but also healthy.

You can visit one salty cave in Rome, and even sit there and relax…

Give it a chance, you will feel better afterwards!

32. Get out of a wedding cake

Did you know National Monument of Victor Emmanuel II is know as the wedding cake monument?

Okay, most likely not a lot of people actually know that…

Best part, you can get on top of it with an elevator and get a stunning views of the city.

Vittorio Emanuele Monument Rome

Unusual places to see in Rome

You have made it to the unusual places to see in Rome, things you can only see here in the Old Empire’s capital.

33. A 2000 year old Pyramid

In the heart of Rome, you will find an Egyptian style pyramid, the pyramid of Cestius.

There is a free entrance the first Saturday and Sunday of the month at 10.30.

It must be booked it in advance though. Check out the coopculture website for more information.

The Pyramid in Rome

34. Stroll surrounded by Happy Acquedotti

One of the Rome secret places which you should not miss.

Parco degli acquedotti is known as the Happy Acquedotti Park.

No, the aqueducts won’t make you laugh or entertain you like a theme park…

The name was given by the Pope who build the aqueducts, Felice Peretti. Occasionally, there are some Music events and markets hold in this park.

35. House of Owls

The House of Owls or Casina delle Civette is one of those places that you will love or hate. Unlike the grandeur of the Vatican Museums, it offers a more intimate and unique experience. 

It was the residence of the prince Giovanni Torlonia. Nowadays it is a museum located on an exquisite little house on the grounds of the Villa Torlonia Park.

It looks like a fairy tale place.

36. Street art

First-time visitors to Rome can often be shocked by the amount of graffiti in the street of Rome.

The truth is that there are many street art in Rome. Sometimes even affecting the ancient buildings.

Regrettably, lots of it is low-quality tagging.

But there are also several areas that have high quality street artists working.

Fun things to do in Rome at night

During night time, Romans do always have a drink in some of the many squares and then head to the disco.

But first, to heat up, they do an aperitivo.

What is an aperitivo? In some bars, you get and pay for a drink, and it comes along with some food (normally for free)

37. An aperitivo with locals

If you went to Rome just for the food (yes Mr and Mrs food lovers, we got you!), you should be aware about Aperitivo.

Lot of bars offer aperitivo in Rome.

The Aperitivo consists of free dish (or even buffet) with a drink during the evening, it starts around 18:00.

One of the most local and famous place for an Aperitivo is: Freni e Frizoni.

On the map below, I added my favorite places for a good Aperitivo.

38. Get insulted by the restaurant staff (but wait…)

Okay, before you run away, hear us out!

La parolaccia is a restaurant in Rome where waiters will bring you the dishes loaded of good food… and bad words!

Don’t take it personally! It is just a show where they use abusive language.

The best part? You can also use as many as you want. Maybe a good bar to check out after a bad day?

39. Party time!

Wanna party in Rome? On this map you have the best nightclubs in Rome. The most famous Rome nightlife area is near Pyramid mentioned earlier.

There you will find famous clubs, such as Goa Club. This club is known as the electronic temple.

Check all the events on Goa Club here.

40. The time machine to a different era

Tramjazz is a tram with jazz live music.

You can book your dinner and experience the city in a special way.

Regional Italian food, local wine, and live jazz music. This is obviously more for the night out.

41. Go underneath Trevi Fountain (Vicus Caprarius)

I promised you this absolute hidden gem only 1% of all tourists in Rome know about. And here I am:

Did you know you can go underneath the famous Fontana Di Trevi?

Follow the little alley on the street “Vicolo de Modelli”. You can follow the signs “Area Arcehologica: La Citta dell acqua (vicus caprarius)”

You can also find it on Google and Maps under the name “vicus caprarius – The City of Water”. Tickets are only around 5€. You can buy it at the entrance, but I recommend buying it on the official website beforehand. This is the only way to buy their tickets; I could not find it on GetYourGuide or Tiqets.com.

What can you expect?

Get to see the ancient water acqueducts and roman ruins underneath the Trevi Fountain. The water you see is exactly the one cycling through the Trevi Fountain you see upstairs. To me, this was pretty cool to see. On top of that, this place used to be a house. It is pretty hard to imagine.

This piece of hidden history is worth it your time! I recommend taking a guided tour.

Check more Underground Sights in Rome here

Address of Vicus Caprarius: Vicolo de Piuttarello 25

Below I leave you with a cool video from Tiqets.com. Check it out!

Must do in Rome

I could not find this article without mentioning all the must do in Rome.

There are many interesting things to do in Rome, but here I do summarize the things you should add to your bucket list in Rome.

I also added all Rome attractions on the map above. As well as more attractions.

That way, you can just check the map online during your trip in Rome.

  • the Colosseum
  • the Pantheon
  • Piazza del Popolo
  • Villa borghese. Don’t forget to admire sunset from Pincio
  • Trevi Fountain
  • Piazza Navona
  • Castel San’ Angelo
  • Vitorio Emanuele
  • Campidoglio
  • Boca della verità
  • Fori Imperiali
  • St. Peter’s square
  • Vatican Museum
  • St. Angelo Bridge
  • Piazza Navona
  • Basilica Santa Maria Maggiore
  • Campo de Fiori
  • Walks of Italy
  • Piazza di Spagna

Things to do in Rome, Italy. The most important thing is to enjoy

Where to stay in Rome

The key if you want to enjoy Rome at the fullest is to stay central. That way, you will be able to see all the main attractions easily.

Areas I do particularly enjoy is the area near Villa Borguese Park, Panteon or Piazza di Spagna. Keep it simple and read our detailed guide to where to stay in Rome.

Here the hotel I stayed at in Rome during my last holidays in Rome.

Apartment: Il Ricamo Di Roma

A beautiful apartment centrally located. Easy to walk to many locations such as:

  • the Pantheon,
  • Trevi Fountain,
  • Colosseum…

Il Ricamo di Roma is well equipped. With clean, modern facilities including a cozy courtyard.

Book Il Ricamo di Roma here

Il Ricamo di Roma, where to stay in Rome

Hostels in Rome

There is many cool backpacker hostels in Rome too. They are obviously much cheaper than a hotel.

Here’s our favorites:

  1. best hostel in Rome for Solo-Traveller: Generator Rome
  2. best hostel in Rome for Groups: Generator Rome
  3. best hostel in Rome for Couples: The Bricks
  4. best hostel in Rome for Backpacker: New Generation
  5. best party hostel in Rome: The Yellow Hostel

Here’s a full guide to best hostels in Rome.

Youth Station Hostel Rome Common Area

Map with all Cool Things to do in Rome

Alright, you made it that far to the map we have mentioned already several times.

Below we put all the Rome activities on a map. It helps you to plan your trip better.

You can activate and deactivate the different layers in the left sidebar. It will help you to plan your trip much better.

FAQs

Can I drive a vintage Fiat 500 myself in Rome?

Yes, you can drive a Fiat 500 yourself provided you have a valid EU driver's license or an international driver's license. Alternatively, you can opt for a guided tour with a driver.

Do I need to pre-book a tour for the Colosseum?

Absolutely. Due to limited daily visitor capacity, it is essential to pre-book your Colosseum tour. You can choose from various options, including special night tours for a unique experience.

Is Rome suitable for street art exploration?

Yes. Rome has vibrant street art scenes in neighborhoods like Ostiense. You'll find works by international urban artists, offering a contemporary contrast to Rome's ancient history.

Are there any water parks in Rome?

During the summer, water parks like Hydromania offer a refreshing escape from the city heat. It's a great option, especially for families.

What are some romantic activities for couples in Rome?

Couples can enjoy activities like a stroll in Villa Borghese Park, visiting the 'Boca della Verità' for a fun experience, or enjoying the panoramic views from Monte Mario.

Summary for having fun in Rome

Seriously,  you are still here? Fair enough. You can find more tips in our guide One Week In Rome.

Do you have any other cool recommendation for some fun things in Rome?

Share your thoughts in the comments below. We would love to add more fun activities.

 

— Pin it for later —

Fun things to do in Rome

 

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