Rome in 2025 is more than just a destination—it’s a timeless adventure that seamlessly blends millennia-old history with fresh and modern experiences. As the Eternal City continues to evolve, it offers travelers a vibrant mix of the iconic and the undiscovered. Whether you’re walking through ancient ruins, indulging in local flavors, or uncovering hidden gems, Rome never ceases to amaze. This guide explores the most unforgettable things to do in Rome Italy in 2025, curated for first-time visitors and seasoned travelers alike. Get ready to dive deep into a city that captivates the soul and stirs the imagination.
Marvel at Rome’s Eternal Icons
No visit to Rome is complete without experiencing its legendary landmarks. In 2025, sites like the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill continue to anchor the city’s historical narrative. Enhanced digital tours now provide immersive 3D reconstructions, offering travelers a vivid glimpse into ancient Roman life. The Pantheon, recently revitalized with interactive exhibits, remains a marvel of ancient engineering and sacred design. Nearby, the Trevi Fountain dazzles under sophisticated nighttime lighting, making evening visits especially enchanting. These classic attractions top any list of things to do in Rome Italy, and for good reason—they connect us to the roots of Western civilization.
Experience the Spiritual and Artistic Grandeur of the Vatican
A city within a city, Vatican City is an unmissable stop for anyone exploring Rome. In 2025, the Vatican Museums feature newly opened halls and rotating exhibitions that blend classical art with modern religious interpretations. The Sistine Chapel, still breathtaking after centuries, now includes enhanced crowd control to allow for longer, quieter viewing experiences. St. Peter’s Basilica offers panoramic rooftop access, giving visitors a majestic view over Rome’s skyline. The tranquil Vatican Gardens, open to more visitors this year, offer a peaceful retreat away from the crowds. Visiting Vatican City is not just a spiritual journey but also one of the most enriching things to do in rome italy.
Stroll Through Rome’s Most Beloved Neighborhoods
While its monuments are world-famous, Rome’s true charm often lies in its neighborhoods. Trastevere, with its cobblestone alleys and bohemian cafes, continues to enchant both tourists and locals. For something more avant-garde, explore Pigneto, known for its street art and craft cocktail scene. Monti, just steps from the Colosseum, is the perfect place to discover artisan boutiques and vintage finds. In 2025, many of these districts are hosting weekend markets, local art festivals, and open-air film screenings, turning ordinary walks into delightful discoveries. Getting lost in these neighborhoods is one of the most authentic things to do in Rome Italy, offering a deeper look into Roman daily life.
Taste the Best of Roman Cuisine—From Street Food to Fine Dining
Rome’s culinary offerings are a treat for the senses. In 2025, traditional Roman dishes like cacio e pepe, carbonara, and supplì still dominate local menus, but chefs are also innovating with sustainable ingredients and fusion techniques. The rise of gourmet street food in places like Testaccio Market and Mercato Centrale offers quick yet unforgettable bites. Rooftop dining at spots like La Grande Bellezza delivers panoramic views alongside fine cuisine. For travelers wanting a hands-on experience, cooking classes with local nonnas (grandmothers) are more popular than ever. Sampling Rome’s diverse food scene is without question one of the most rewarding things to do in Rome Italy.
Immerse Yourself in Rome’s Cultural and Artistic Evolution
Rome isn’t just a museum of antiquity—it’s also a hub of evolving art and culture. Museums like the Galleria Borghese, Capitoline Museums, and MAXXI (Museum of 21st Century Art) offer a rich blend of old and new. In 2025, Rome is hosting several international art fairs and pop-up exhibitions in unusual spaces—like ancient ruins and restored churches. Outdoor opera performances at the Baths of Caracalla are drawing bigger crowds thanks to updated staging and acoustics. The fusion of past and present makes cultural exploration one of the most dynamic things to do in Rome Italy, offering unique perspectives for every kind of traveler.
Relax in Rome’s Green Spaces and Scenic Lookouts
Amid Rome’s architectural splendor, its parks and scenic spots offer moments of peace and reflection. Villa Borghese, with its elegant gardens and bike paths, remains a top spot for recreation and picnics. The Orange Garden (Giardino degli Aranci) offers sweeping views of St. Peter’s Basilica through a perfectly framed keyhole, a hidden gem not to be missed. Janiculum Hill (Gianicolo) is another fantastic viewpoint, especially at sunset when the city glows golden. In 2025, eco-walking tours and yoga sessions in these parks are becoming popular with travelers seeking balance and tranquility. Enjoying these natural retreats is among the most rejuvenating things to do in Rome Italy.
Explore Rome by Night—A City of Light and Life
Rome transforms after dark. In 2025, the city’s night scene is more vibrant than ever, with evening access to major landmarks like the Colosseum, Castel Sant’Angelo, and Piazza Navona creating magical experiences. The Tiber River embankments are now home to seasonal night markets, offering local crafts, street food, and live music under twinkling lights. Rooftop bars such as Zuma and Cielo Terrace provide upscale settings to sip Italian wine while soaking in skyline views. Night walking tours, ghost walks, and moonlit scooter rides are also in vogue. For many travelers, Rome truly comes alive after dark—making nightlife exploration a must on the list of things to do in Rome Italy.
Uncover Hidden Treasures and Local Secrets
Beyond the typical attractions lies a quieter, more mysterious Rome. Descend into the Catacombs of San Sebastiano or marvel at the bone-decorated Capuchin Crypts for a chilling brush with history. Visit Quartiere Coppedè, an off-the-beaten-path neighborhood filled with surreal, fairytale-like architecture. Stroll along the Appian Way (Via Appia Antica) on foot or e-bike to discover ancient aqueducts and Roman tombs untouched by time. In 2025, guided tours to places like Monte Testaccio—an ancient Roman garbage dump turned historical site—are gaining popularity among history buffs. Seeking out these lesser-known sites is one of the most thrilling things to do in Rome Italy, perfect for travelers craving originality and depth.
Conclusion
In 2025, Rome is a vibrant tapestry of history, culture, flavor, and discovery. Whether you’re seeing the Colosseum for the first time, indulging in handmade pasta in a hidden trattoria, or uncovering forgotten corners of the city, every moment in Rome offers something unforgettable. This is a city where the past coexists with the present, and every traveler—whether novice or veteran—can find something new to love. From iconic monuments and culinary adventures to underground mysteries and neighborhood strolls, these are the essential things to do in Rome Italy that make every journey to the Eternal City truly one-of-a-kind.