Things to Do in Rome (2026): Rome Local Guide (2026)

elia · 2026-05-21T16:03:23+02:00

**🏛️ Must-See Ancient Sites** Start with the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill. Book a combined ticket online in advance to skip the long queues, and consider a guided tour to unlock the stories behind the ruins. **⛲ Iconic Fountains and Squares** Toss a coin into the Trevi Fountain at dawn to avoid crowds, then wander to Piazza Navona with its three fountains. Nearby, the Pantheon offers free entry and a stunning oculus. **🍝 Authentic Roman Food Experiences** Try cacio e pepe at Roscioli Salumeria in the historic center, or head to Testaccio for a food tour of the neighborhood's trattorias and market stalls. For a budget-friendly lunch, grab a pizza al taglio from Pizzarium near the Vatican. **🎨 Art and Museums Beyond the Vatican** The Borghese Gallery houses masterpieces by Bernini and Caravaggio, but you must book tickets weeks ahead. For a quieter option, visit the Capitoline Museums or the contemporary MAXXI museum in the Flaminio district. **🚶 Hidden Neighborhoods to Explore** Escape the crowds in Trastevere's narrow alleys, especially in the evening when the piazzas come alive. For a local vibe, explore the trendy Monti district near the Colosseum, filled with vintage shops and wine bars. **⛪ Churches with Surprising Art** Santa Maria della Vittoria houses Bernini's Ecstasy of Saint Teresa, while San Luigi dei Francesi features three Caravaggio paintings. Both are free and usually uncrowded. **🚇 Getting Around Like a Local** Rome's metro has two main lines (A and B) plus a new line C, but many sights are walkable. Buy a 24-hour or 48-hour ticket from any metro station for unlimited buses and trams. **🌅 Best Evening Spots** Watch the sunset from the Pincian Hill Terrace near Villa Borghese, or from the Janiculum Hill for a panoramic view. End the night with gelato from Gelateria del Teatro near Piazza Navona.