With the recent influx of European travel, many popular cities, such as Rome, can be overrun by tourists. Trust me, I’ve been in Rome several times when this has occurred. (Insider tip: book your trip during the off-season.) The crowds and the lines can be daunting and stressful, to say the least. And what’s worse than having planned a beautiful holiday in a beautiful city only to wrestle your way through it? This often leads you to scream for a break from it all. (Unless you’re a fan of crowds!) So here we have it: 31 non-touristy things to do in Rome for when you need a break from the crowds…and a break on your wallet!
31 Non-Touristy Things To Do In Rome
In Rome, there are many things to do that will take you away from the crowds when you need a break and give your wallet a bit of relaxation, too. Not all of the ‘to-dos” in my list are free; however, they won’t be as pricey as, say, visiting the Vatican Museum. Think of this list as your backdoor access to Rome while getting to know it inside and out.
- Mercati Traianei (Trojan’s Market): Think Shopping Mall; this would have been one of the earliest examples. Emperor Trajan built it between 107 and 110 AD. It is an important archaeological site and, back in its day, offered a variety of shops, offices, and storage rooms. Goods ranging from food to clothing and luxury items were sold to customers. It is one of Rome’s lesser-known archaeological sites, nestled in the city’s heart next to the Roman Forum.
2. Antica Farmacia di Santa Maria della Scala: Located in the Trastevere district, this is one of the oldest pharmacies in Rome. Due to its close proximity to the Vatican, many cardinals, popes, and princes would frequent this pharmacy, which earned it the nickname “Pharmacy of the Popes.” Later, in the 18th century, it became a place to study the properties of plants and a makeshift hospital to assist soldiers.
3. Visit Monte di Cocci: This is a very interesting man-made hill in the Testaccio district. It is an interesting archaeological site in Rome characterized by its towering hill composed of ancient pottery fragments. The hill is estimated to contain millions of broken potsherds. You can easily visit this site by making a reservation via phone at by calling +39 060608
4. Explore Quartiere Coppedè: This is such a charming neighborhood—one of my favorites. It is known for its eclectic and whimsical architectural style, which blends Art Nouveau, Art Deco, and Gothic influences.
5. Take a cooking class: This is one of my favorite things to do while traveling. Especially in Italy! One, not only are you away from the insane crowds of Rome, but two, you get to make and eat some pretty tasty dishes. I highly recommend booking a cooking class. You’ll be happy you did this because it’s such a fun experience, and there are many classes to pick from.
6. Explore the Jewish Ghetto: Situated between the Tiber River and the Roman Forum, you will find this historic neighborhood. Originally, the Ghetto was a walled-off area with locked gates at night. Over time, the physical barriers were removed, but the neighborhood retained its distinct character and identity. Within the neighborhood, visit the sites of the Jewish Museum of Rome, the Fontana delle Tartarughe (Turtle Fountain), and the Portico d’Ottavia, a Roman-era portico. And most importantly, the Great Synagogue of Rome.
7. Explore the ruins of the Baths of Caracalla: Known as the second largest public bathhouse in Rome, this is worth a visit. The Baths of Caracalla are located in the southern part of the city. They became operational in 216 AD, fully functional in the 5th century, and, amazingly, were referred to as one of the seven wonders of Rome. It is said that the daily capacity could have been between 6,000 and 8,000 bathers.
8. Spend a day hiking in the Parco Regionale dell’Appia Antica: Lace up your hiking boots and explore this park’s scenic trails. Along the way, you will see ancient ruins, archaeological sites, Roman villas, and natural beauty.
9. See the Aventine Keyhole: How beautiful it is to see St. Peter’s Basilica while looking through a tiny keyhole! Tucked away on Aventine Hill, this unassuming keyhole in the doorway of the Priory of the Knights of Malta unlocks a mind-bending view. Aventine Keyhole is definitely your ticket to a hidden gem with a view!
10. Climb to the top of St. Peter’s Dome: Yes, there are many, many steps, and I think that is what makes it less crowded! There are 551 steps, to be precise. This was a ton of fun to do, and it will only set you back €8. (OK, did I say “ton of fun”?) All kidding aside, it wasn’t that bad of a climb, and if push comes to shove, you can always take the elevator up.
11. Visit Palazzo Spada: Built in the mid-16th century, Palazzo Spada is well known for its baroque architecture and impressive art collection. This is where you can see Borromini’s perspective gallery. It’s really interesting and fun to see.
12. Take a bike ride along the Appian Way: Take a ride down the oldest road in Rome. Highlights include the Tomb of Cecilia Metella, the Catacombs of San Callisto, and the Villa of the Quintilii.
13. Attend a traditional Roman folk music and dance performance at the Casa del Jazz: Casa del Jazz is a cultural center in the Villa Osio Park in Rome. It is dedicated to promoting jazz music and other forms of musical expression. Check their event calendar here.
14. Visit the Protestant Cemetery of Piramide: Enjoy a peaceful stroll through this cemetery, also known as the Cimitero Acattolico, located near the Pyramid of Cestius in Rome. Admire the beautiful monuments and tombstones and pay tribute to noble figures such as English poets John Keats and Percy Bysshe Shelley.
15. Spend some time in Piazza Santa Maria in Trastevere: One of my favorite squares. Sit at one of the outdoor cafes or wine bars surrounding the square and enjoy a nice meal or aperitivo while soaking up the atmosphere. And if you are into people-watching, this is a great place.
16. Visit the Catacombs of San Sebastiano: On a tour of these catacombs, you will learn about the history, symbolism, and rituals associated with Christian burial practices in ancient Rome from your knowledgeable guide. These burials date back to the 2nd century AD.
17. Visit the Testaccio Market: Although it can get crowded at times, it is a must. Here, you can enjoy samples of fresh produce, cheeses, and other local foods.
18. Take a day trip to Tivoli: Tivoli is a town located east of Rome. It has two iconic landmarks: Villa d’Este, a UNESCO World Heritage site famed for its magnificent gardens and fountains, and Hadrian’s Villa, an expansive archaeological complex revealing the grandness of an ancient Roman emperor’s residence. The town also offers natural wonders, illustrated by Villa Gregoriana, a park featuring waterfalls, caves, and scenic trails. You can relax and wander through the town’s medieval streets, discover quaint shops, and enjoy the local atmosphere. If you’re looking for even more relaxation, check out Tivoli’s thermal baths, which reflect the town’s ancient spa tradition.
19. Attend an event at the Auditorium Parco della Musica: This is a world-class venue in Rome and is the largest in Europe. Check here for a schedule of events.
20. Visit the Ostiense neighborhood: This neighborhood has a very vibrant street art scene. You will find colorful murals, graffiti tags, and urban art installations. It’s a really fun neighborhood to walk through.
21. Wander through the picturesque streets of Monti: This is a great place to do some shopping in artisanal shops, boutique galleries, and vintage stores for unique souvenirs and gifts.
22. Take a guided tour of the Castelli Romani region: This beautiful region should not be unexplored. Explore the hilltop towns, local vineyards, and wineries and indulge in some tasty traditional dishes.
23. Explore the hidden gem of Villa Torlonia: Villa Torlonia is a historic park located in the Nomentano neighborhood of Rome. It features neoclassical villas, lush gardens, and a variety of architectural styles. During your visit, you can also explore the Museum of the Villa, the Temple of Saturn, and the Casino dei Principi.
24. Explore the Etruscan necropolis of Cerveteri: Located just outside of Rome, the Etruscan necropolis of Cerveteri is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most important archaeological sites in Italy. Explore the ancient burial mounds, tombs, and artifacts dating back to the Etruscan civilization and learn about their unique burial rituals and customs.
25. Relax in Villa Borghese: Relax and unwind in Rome’s large park. There are plenty of activities to do here, but if you just want to relax and take a peaceful walk, this is a great place to go.
26. Explore Trastevere: This is a really charming neighborhood that you don’t want to miss. Venture down its cobblestone streets to discover local eateries, artisan shops, and a lively atmosphere.
27. Explore the EUR District: Discover the Fascist-era architecture of the EUR (Esposizione Universale Roma) district, built for the 1942 World’s Fair that never took place. Admire the grandiose buildings, wide boulevards, and futuristic design.
28. Take a Food Tour of Testaccio: Join a food tour of Testaccio, a vibrant neighborhood known for its culinary pleasures. Sample traditional Roman street food, visit local markets, and learn about the area’s culinary history from knowledgeable guides.
29. Take a Day Trip to Ostia Antica: As mentioned in my 10 Amazing Day Trips from Rome, explore the well-preserved ruins of Ostia Antica, a former Roman port city located just outside of Rome. Wander through ancient streets, temples, and public buildings to get a glimpse into daily life in ancient Rome.
30. Visit the MACRO Testaccio: A contemporary art museum housed in a former slaughterhouse where you can view thought-provoking exhibitions.
31. Explore the vibrant neighborhood of Pigneto: This neighborhood is known for its eclectic atmosphere, artsy vibe, and bustling nightlife. You will find a ton of bars and great places to eat in this area. It can feel a bit edgy, but don’t let that put you off. The street art makes it well worth a visit.
More on Rome
If you are interested in a 3-day Rome itinerary, check out my post here.
Is Rome Worth Visiting? You can find out here.
What about safety? Is Rome Safe?
Where To Stay In Rome
There are so many great places to stay while visiting Rome. Whether you are a budget planner or looking to splurge, I have listed the hotels that I love and have stayed in during my visits.
Budget Option
Dimora Al 36: Located near the main train station, this is a clean, chic hotel.
Mid-Range Option
Hotel Navona: This hotel is located between Piazza Navona and the Pantheon. I loved this hotel for many reasons. The location was perfect, and the hotel itself was clean, with bright and airy rooms and pretty decor.
Luxury Option
The Westin Excelsior, Rome: Located south of Villa Borghese, this hotel is stunning and yes, pricey. But if you are looking for an elegant and beautiful hotel to stay in, this is it!
FAQs
In this FAQ section, I will highlight some commonly asked questions.
Where do locals go out in Rome?
Many locals hang out in the piazzas. Common piazzas to find locals in are Piazza Navona, Piazza del Popolo, and Piazza Spagna.
Is Rome a walkable city?
Yes, although Rome is a very large city, it is walkable. Many of the main attractions are located in a relatively compact area in the historic center. For attractions that may take you outside the city, there is ample public transportation.
What is the coolest neighborhood in Rome?
Personally, I feel Trastevere is the coolest neighborhood in Rome. It is classified as Rome’s most bohemian area, and this is thanks to its two American colleges. There are plenty of great bars and places to dine. It can get noisy at night, but that’s because it has a great nightlife.
Conclusion
Although you will most definitely want to see all the main attractions in Rome, sometimes you may just want a break from the crowds and still see some amazing things. This comprehensive list of non-touristy things to do in Rome will give you this. By venturing off the tourist trail, you can discover Rome’s lesser-known hidden gems, which promise you a truly enriching and rewarding travel experience.
