Things to do in Rome (other than sightseeing)

All roads lead to Rome, and when it comes to iconic holiday destinations, Rome is about as exquisite as they come. Simply uttering to someone that you’re heading to Rome evokes positive affirmations about how amazing and incredible your trip is set to be. With a rich, storied history behind its cobbled streets and centuries of culture and tradition on display, it’s a treasure trove of experiences for the intrepid traveller. If you’re wanting a bit of variability in the Eternal City, however, beyond just taking in the sights, we’ve pulled together some things to do in Rome - other than sightseeing! 

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Before we jump in, here are some quick tips to keep on hand.

• How to get around: Depending on where you’re headed, this will change somewhat but will become a combination of walking, the underground metro, cycling and buses. Rome has 3 metro lines that run diagonally under the city, and so due to its limitations, you may need to jump on a bus, or walk to your destination. Thankfully, as a city that attracts millions of tourists every year, it’s equipped to handle this. 
• Currency: The Euro is the main currency of Rome, and of all Italy, so you’ll need to get this swapped out. Our experts at Travel Money can help you arrange this before you depart. Alternatively, a Flight Centre Mastercard has no international transaction fees, freeing you up to just focus on shopping!
• Where to Stay: Depending on your focus, Rome boasts many amazing places to stay. For first-timers or those looking to immerse themselves in the rich history of Rome, then the Centro Storico (Historic Centre) is the best place to stay. It has an array of hotels that are comfortable and stately, and gives you easy access to attractions like the Pantheon, Trevi Fountain, and Piazza Navona. 

Take a Roman Cooking Class

Fancy yourself a dab hand in the kitchen, and want some new skills to show off with when you return back home? Consider immersing yourself in Italian cuisine by learning how to prepare classic dishes like pasta cacio e pepe or saltimbocca. You’ll find many local trattorias (restaurants) or specific cooking schools where you can learn about the cuisine that is iconic across the world. Expect to be taken through lessons around fresh and seasonal ingredients, as well as some of the secrets to Italian cooking. This is a double whammy because not only do you get some new skills to add to your repertoire, but you’ll be all sorted for dinner for the evening! If you’re after a bit of extra edge to your experience, then a course such as the Spritz & Spaghetti Class from ‘Rome with Chef’ offers you the opportunity to create authentic Italian food, while you drink and get merry with your friends. Dinner and drinks never looked so tasty! 

Explore the Vibrant Trastevere Neighbourhood

This funky, bohemian neighbourhood is definitely a spot for sightseeing. Beyond that, however, it clings to its centuries-old, working-class roots with narrow, cobbled streets, intimate alleys and family run businesses fuelled by passion and love for their craft. Situated on the opposite bank of the Tiber, you’ll have a blast exploring this vibrant hotspot. 

• Support local and browse through the many artisan stores and boutiques that dot the narrow alleyways. Often family-run and using centuries-old techniques handed down over generations, you’ll be guaranteed to pick up an authentically exquisite item that has been made by a master craftsperson.
• Take a food tour to explore the restaurants. As such a prominent tourist destination, you’ll find yourself spoilt for choice with the food tours on offer. From food and wine tours offering 20+ tastings, to a walking tour of street food hotspots, you’ll be dazzled and delighted by each location. 
• Visit the Basilica Papale di Santa Maria Maggiore - the largest church dedicated to Mary in Rome, plus one of the four papal basilicas in Rome. Built on the site where the Virgin Mary appeared to Pope Liberius, it features striking mosaics, stunning architecture and offers a glimpse into the artistry and spirituality of the early Christian era. Plus, if you’re there in early August, they commemorate the day when a blanket of snow appeared on the land in the height of summer, by dropping white flower petals from the ceiling. 
• Wind down as the sun sets with a cocktail from any of the beautiful cocktail bars that dot the district. A bar like Freni e Frizoni or Santo Trastevere is a great spot for an experimental and bespoke cocktail! 

Attend an Opera or Classical Music Concert

As the home of opera, no trip to Italy would be complete without attending an opera or a classical music performance. From Puccini’s La Bohème to La Traviata by Verdi, Il Barbiere di Siviglia by Rossini, or Madama Butterfly by Puccini, Italy has produced an array of opera that has dazzled people the world over.  

• Standing on the site of a formerly occupied villa, the Teatro dell'Opera di Roma is the premier theatre of Rome, for opera and classical music. Seating around 2,200 people, it’s a love letter to the art form and the neo-renaissance style lends itself to exquisite acoustic performances.
• If you’re after something older, then the Teatro Argentina is one of the oldest, dating back to 1732. Predominantly used for theatrical and dance performances, it does occasionally host opera performances and its beautiful architecture makes it a dreamy spot to visit.
• Take a look at an organisation like Opera in Roman. They coordinate various operatic performances throughout the year and host them in iconic settings, such as various Roman churches and cathedrals. A perfect way to experience both art and culture in one go.

Indulge in a Gelato-making Workshop

Another iconic invention of the Italian, Gelato - which translates to ‘frozen’ in Italian - first made its appearance back in the 16th century. Today, however, it’s a worldwide treat beloved by many, and often seen as the healthier alternative to ice cream (or at least we like to tell ourselves as much!). Scattered across Rome you’ll find numerous workshops and classes dedicated to teaching studious tourists the art of gelato making. From how to select the right ingredients through to how to process and store them to create gelato, it’s a unique skill that is sure to be a winner at dinner parties. 

You can explore options such as the Gelato & Italian Biscotti Masterclass by ‘In Rome Cooking’ or the Gelato Lovers Workshop from ‘Eat & Walk Italy’, or chat to your Travel Expert and they’ll help add one into your itinerary to make things easy! 

Discover the Street Art of Ostiense

Situated between Rome’s historic centre and the working-class district of Garbatellea, Ostiense is known for being a canvas for street artists across the globe. As an old industry area, the street art has revitalised the district, whilst adding to its character and charm! Artists from Italy, Germany, Argentina, Portugal and more have all left their mark. If you want to get technical, Ostiense is a destination that reflects the intersection of ancient and modern Rome (a good line to use on your colleagues after your trip!) 

• Discover the ‘Wall of Fame’ by JB Rock - a massive feature of over 60 portraits of historical and contemporary figures ranging from Da Vinci to Gandhi!
• Witness one of the largest eco-murals in Europe, “Hunting Pollution” by Iena Cruz - created with air-purifying paint that helps to reduce smog.
• Or ogle at the “Jumping Wolf” by Roa which depicts a black and white wolf leaping across a wall.  

If you’re looking for a double whammy, then consider booking in with a company that matches the art experience with a tour of the various restaurants along the way. Experience the local history through both art and flavour for a guaranteed memory maker. 

Take a Bike Tour along the Appian Way

Get your sandals on and rent a bike to then cycle along the ancient Via Appia Antica! This peaceful, cobbled Roman street is lined with aqueducts, catacombs and ancient ruins that will make you feel like you’re stepping back in time. This is a phenomenal way to breathe in the clean air of the Roman countryside, whilst also getting exposed to the glorious tapestry of Italian history. 

Pro tip - start your ride early in the morning to avoid the midday heat and any weekend crowds. Start from Cecilia Metella (just a little past the Catacombs of San Sebastiano). This skips the initial stretch of the Appian Way which is often far too cobbled and uneven for comfortable cycling on a rental bike! Pack a picnic in a backpack to take with you, find a spot to park up and enjoy cheeses and breads in the shade of swaying trees

Visit & explore the Local Markets

International markets are a veritable trove of local trinkets and hand crafted treasures. In Italy, you can find markets of all shapes and sizes to help you get a feel for living like a Roman. 

• Spend a morning at Camp de’ Fiori where you can taste street food, buy fresh produce, or shop for local delicacies. This classical open-air market is held every morning (except Sunday’s) and is a must visit. If you can get there bright and early then you’ll have your choice of fresh produce and treats!
• Visit the Testaccio Market to explore local flavours and sample cheese, cured meats and even freshly made olive oil. 
• If you’re a fan of flea markets, then Porta Portese Market is Rome’s largest! Held every Sunday morning in Trastevere (so you can double it up with the activities above) you’ll find a huge variety of everything from vintage clothes to vinyl records! Plus, if you love to bargain, you can expect to engage with passionate stall keepers as you find a fair price!  

Be warned with the markets though - they get PACKED. Unfortunately, this can also lead to pickpockets prowling the streets and stalls, so keep your wits about you. 

Relax at a traditional Roman Spa

Self care whilst on holiday is the name of the game, and visiting one of Rome’s modern spas - inspired by the ancient Roman baths - is a must. A destination like the QC Terme Roma offers you the opportunity to enjoy saunas, thermal pools, and steam baths set in historical surroundings.  

Most of these spas also offer massages, and so you can easily pass half a day giving your body some much needed TLC and ironing out any tired or achy muscles. It pays to book these ahead of time, and your Travel Expert will be able to assist in building this into your itinerary! 

Visit the MAXXI National Museum of 21st Century Arts

When you’ve had your fill of antiquities and ancient alleyways, you may be more drawn to the modern arts of the Eternal City. Opened in 2010, in the Flaminio district of Rome, MAXXI is Italy’s first national museum dedicated ENTIRELY to contemporary creativity. Think visual arts, architecture, design and photography, and performance art.  

The building itself is an homage to architectural excellence, from the natural light that is filtered through the massive skylights through to the use of concrete, steel and glass to form dramatic curves.  

Undertake an Aperitivo Crawl

It wouldn’t be a trip to Rome without a sampling of the amazing beverages on offer. Tour Rome like a true local with a small-group aperitivo crawl. Sample spritzes, negronis, and local wines while enjoying snacks like olives or focaccia.  

Not only is this a great choice because of the amazing flavours you’ll get to experience, but it is also likely to take you through amazing, historical neighbourhoods like Prati, Monit and Trastevere. What better way to round out your stories from your holiday to Rome? 

Ready to step back in time? Book your holiday to Rome today!