Rome Bucket List: 50+ Ultimate Things To Do This Year!

1. Colosseum

No Rome bucket list would be right without the Colosseum. Step into the world of gladiators at this iconic Roman amphitheater.

Grab a skip-the-line ticket to beat the crowds.

The Colosseum, capable of seating 50,000 spectators, hosted gladiatorial contests and public spectacles.

Also see: The Best Way To See The Colosseum In Rome!

2. Palatine Hill

Explore the ruins of ancient Rome’s most exclusive neighborhood.

It offers one of the best views of the Roman Forum.

According to Roman mythology, it’s also the site of the Lupercal, the wolf’s den where Romulus and Remus were found.

3. Roman Forum

Go back in time wandering the ruins of the heart of ancient Rome.

A ticket gives access to the Colosseum and Palatine Hill too, so plan a day to cover all three.

Julius Caesar was cremated here.

4. Sistine Chapel

Be awestruck by Michelangelo’s ceiling painting of The Last Judgment in Vatican City.

Arrive early to avoid the crowds, and dress modestly as a sign of respect.

The chapel’s ceiling took four years to complete.

Also see: 10 Interesting Vatican City Fun Facts You Need To Know!

5. St. Peter’s Basilica (Basilica di San Pietro)

Climb to the dome for breathtaking city views, and explore Michelangelo’s Pietà inside.

It’s free entry, but there are dress code requirements.

This basilica is the largest church in the world.

6. The Pantheon

Gaze up at the world’s largest unreinforced concrete dome, an architectural marvel, with free entry.

The oculus at the dome’s center offers a unique view of the sky.

The building is now a church, containing the tomb of Raphael.

Also see: How To Take An Easy Rome DIY Walking Tour!

7. Vatican Museums

Lose yourself in the vast collections of art and history, including the Raphael Rooms.

Booking a skip-the-line ticket is highly recommended to bypass the long queues.

The museums contain one of the largest art collections in the world.

8. Campo de’ Fiori

Dive into Rome’s daily life at this bustling market.

By day, it’s a vibrant spot for local produce; by night, a lively social scene.

Campo de’ Fiori has been a commercial hub since the 15th century.

Also see: Best 3 Day Rome Itinerary + Pompeii Day Trip Complete Guide!

9. Trevi Fountain (Fontana di Trevi)

Make sure to throw a coin over your shoulder into the fountain to ensure a return to Rome.

It’s the largest Baroque fountain in the city and one of the most famous fountains in the world.

10. Piazza Navona

Soak up the atmosphere of this lively baroque square.

Home to three magnificent fountains.

Built on the site of the Stadium of Domitian, it was Rome’s ancient competition arena.

Also see: 12 Beautiful Main Squares In Rome You Need To See!

11. Spanish Steps

Join the locals and tourists alike for a picturesque walk up the Spanish Steps, leading up to the Trinità dei Monti church.

They were featured in the classic film “Roman Holiday.”

Remember, eating and sitting on the steps is frowned upon.

12. Piazza del Popolo

Experience the grandness of this expansive square.

Climb the Pincio Hill for stunning city views.

The square is a showcase of Roman neoclassical architecture.

Also see: 3 Days In Rome Budget Breakdown That’s Actually Affordable!

13. Catacombs of St. Callixtus

Venture beneath Rome to explore its ancient underground cemeteries.

Guided tours offer insights into early Christian burial practices.

The catacombs reveal a hidden layer of Roman history, stretching miles beneath the city.

14. Appian Way (Via Appia Antica)

Walk Rome’s oldest road to feel history under your feet.

It’s open and free, offering a peaceful break from city life.

This ancient highway used to be rushing with travelers from across the globe.

15. Baths of Caracalla (Terme di Caracalla)

Step into what used to be Rome’s luxurious ancient baths.

Wear comfortable shoes to explore this vast leisure complex that once included libraries and gyms.

The Baths of Caracalla were a social hub in ancient times.

16. Basilica of San Clemente (Basilica di San Clemente)

Discover the layers of religious history within the Basilica di San Clemente.

From a 2nd-century Mithraic temple to a medieval church, it’s a true journey through time.

This site offers a unique glimpse into the evolution of Christian worship spaces.

17. Basilica di San Giovanni in Laterano

Experience the oldest basilica in Rome; a must-see for its history and architecture.

It’s the official seat of the Pope, boasting an interior filled with breathtaking artworks.

This basilica outdates even St. Peter’s in Vatican City.

18. Basilica di Santa Maria in Monti

Immerse yourself in the beauty of this lesser-known gem, with its stunning frescoes and tranquil atmosphere.

It’s a quiet escape from Rome’s crowded spots.

Santa Maria in Monti has been a local spiritual haven since the 16th century.

19. Belvedere del Gianicolo

Catch Rome’s best panoramic views from this prime spot.

Ideal for sunset watchers, it offers a romantic backdrop of the city.

Gianicolo Hill is also a historical site, celebrating Italy’s unification heroes.

Also see: This Is What To Know For Your First Trip To Rome: 10 Tips!

20. Capitoline Museums (Musei Capitolini)

Explore Rome’s oldest public museums for a deep dive into its rich history.

Located on the iconic Capitoline Hill, they house an extensive collection of art and artifacts.

The museums sit on a piazza designed by Michelangelo.

21. Castel Gandolfo

Visit the Pope’s summer residence for stunning views and serene gardens.

Open to the public, it offers a peek into papal life.

Castel Gandolfo overlooks Lake Albano, providing a picturesque escape.

22. Castel Sant’Angelo

Experience the history of this fortress-turned-museum.

Originally built as a mausoleum for Emperor Hadrian, it later became a papal fortress.

Castel Sant’Angelo is connected to Vatican City by a secret passageway.

23. Cooking Class

Dive into Italian cuisine by taking a cooking class in Rome.

Learn to make pasta or pizza from scratch with a local chef.

Many classes include a market visit to choose fresh ingredients.

This class teaches you to make pasta and Tiramisu!

24. Fountain of the Four Rivers (Fontana dei Quattro Fiumi)

Marvel at Bernini’s masterpiece in Piazza Navona.

Toss a coin in and make a wish.

This fountain symbolizes the four major rivers of the continents where the Catholic Church had followers.

25. Food Tour

Savor Rome’s culinary delights on a food tour.

Sample classic dishes like carbonara and gelato.

Tours often explore lesser-known neighborhoods, giving a taste of local life.

This street food tour is less than $50!

26. Galleria Borghese

Admire the art and gardens by Caravaggio and Bernini in this stunning villa.

Booking in advance is a must.

The Borghese family, who originally owned the villa, played a significant role in Italian art patronage.

27. Galleria Doria Pamphilj

Explore this private art collection in a Roman palace.

See works by Raphael and Caravaggio.

The unassuming facade hides one of Rome’s largest art collections.

28. Galleria Spada

Check out the forced perspective gallery by Borromini.

This optical illusion makes the gallery seem longer.

The gallery houses a collection of Baroque paintings and antique armor.

29. Garden of Oranges (Giardino degli Aranci)

Enjoy panoramic views of Rome from this hidden garden.

It’s the perfect spot for a peaceful break.

The garden’s official name is Parco Savello, offering a unique view of the city’s domes.

30. Jewish Ghetto

Walk through history in one of Rome’s oldest neighborhoods.

Try traditional Jewish Roman cuisine.

The area was established in 1555 by Pope Paul IV to segregate Jews.

31. Knights of Malta Keyhole

Peek through this famous keyhole for a unique view of St. Peter’s Basilica.

It’s located on the door of the Priory of the Knights of Malta.

The perfectly aligned view is a favorite for photographers.

32. Largo di Torre Argentina

Visit the site where Julius Caesar was assassinated.

Now home to a cat sanctuary.

The area is also significant for its ancient temple ruins.

33. Mouth of Truth (Bocca della Verità)

Test your truthfulness with this ancient lie detector.

According to legend, it bites off the hands of liars.

The marble mask is located at the portico of the Santa Maria in Cosmedin church.

34. Monti District

Wander through Rome’s coolest neighborhood.

Full of vintage shops and trendy bars.

This area was once the city’s red-light district but is now a hub for young artists and foodies.

Also see: How To Eat Like A Local In Rome + Best Restaurants!

35. Olympic Stadium (Stadio Olimpico)

Catch a soccer match at this massive sports complex.

It’s home to both AS Roma and SS Lazio.

Originally built for the 1960 Olympics, it’s a must-visit for sports fans.

36. Papal Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore

Admire one of Rome’s four major basilicas.

Famous for its stunning mosaics.

It’s the largest Catholic Marian church in Rome.

37. Piazza del Campidoglio

Visit Michelangelo’s Renaissance masterpiece of urban planning.

The piazza hosts the Capitoline Museums.

It was designed to impress Charles V of Spain in 1536.

38. Quirinal Palace (Palazzo del Quirinale)

Marvel at Italy’s presidential residences, open to public tours on specific dates – check ahead.

The palace, located on Rome’s highest hill, boasts an extensive art collection and stunning gardens.

39. Ride a Vespa

Zip through Rome’s cobbled streets on a classic Vespa, the most iconic way to explore the eternal city.

Rentals are available city-wide; remember your helmet for a safe, stylish adventure.

Also see: Your Simple Guide To Visiting Pompeii From Rome!

40. Sant’Agnese in Agone

Visit this beautiful 17th-century church in Piazza Navona, free entry.

It’s a prime example of Baroque architecture and houses impressive frescoes.

Bernini’s Fountain of the Four Rivers is right in front facing it.

41. Santo Stefano al Monte Celio

Discover this lesser-known but serene ancient church, believed to be built over a Roman temple.

It’s a quiet spot for reflection, away from the city noise.

The church has a unique circular plan.

42. Santa Susanna

A charming church in Rome with stunning Baroque architecture.

A must-see is the impressive frescoes inside. A modest dress code is required.

It has been the American national church in Rome since 1922.

Also see: 4 Best Places To Stay In Rome For All Types Of Travelers!

43. Tempietto del Bramante

A small but stunning temple in Rome, designed by Bramante. Take a quiet moment to appreciate its harmonious beauty.

When visiting, note that it’s located in the courtyard of the Church of San Pietro in Montorio.

It’s considered a masterpiece of High Renaissance architecture. Add this hidden gem to your Rome bucket list!

44. Temple of Hercules Victor (Tempio di Ercole Vincitore)

Admire this well-preserved ancient Roman temple, possibly the oldest marble building in Rome.

Located in the Forum Boarium, it’s often mistaken for the Temple of Vesta.

The temple is circular with 20 Corinthian columns.

45. The Capuchin Crypts (Cripta dei Frati Cappuccini)

Explore the morbid yet fascinating underground crypts decorated with the bones of over 4,000 Capuchin monks.

There’s an entry fee, and photography is not allowed.

The crypts aim to remind visitors of the swift passage of life on Earth.

46. The Holy Stairs (Scala Sancta)

Ascend these 28 marble steps on your knees, a tradition followed by many pilgrims.

Believed to be brought from Jerusalem by Saint Helena, they lead to the Sancta Sanctorum.

Jesus is said to have walked these stairs.

47. Theatre of Marcellus (Teatro di Marcello)

See this ancient open-air theatre that predates the Colosseum and influenced its design.

Now partially integrated into a Renaissance palazzo, it’s a striking blend of historical layers.

Julius Caesar initially proposed the theatre.

48. The Vittoriano or Altare della Patria

Climb up to get panoramic views from this monument honoring unified Italy’s first king and the Italian Unknown Soldier.

It’s known for its grand white marble structure.

The monument is also called “The Wedding Cake.”

49. Trastevere

Wander the charming streets of this vibrant neighborhood, known for its authentic Roman eateries and lively nightlife.

Don’t miss the Basilica of Santa Maria in Trastevere, one of the oldest churches in Rome.

Trastevere means “beyond the Tiber.”

50. Via dei Condotti

And last but not least on the Rome bucket list is Via dei Condotti.

Window shop or indulge in high-end shopping on Rome’s most fashionable street, leading directly to the Spanish Steps.

It’s the best spot for luxury Italian and international brands. The street has been a shopping hub since the 18th century.

Also see: 10 Things To Buy In Rome At A Bargain!