Rome, the Eternal City, is a destination on many travellers’ bucket lists. Whether it’s the ancient ruins, stunning art, or delicious food, this Italian capital is packed with things to do and see. In this article, I’ll share the top ten must-visit attractions for first-time visitors to Rome. I’ve included practical details like opening hours, addresses, and entrance fees to help you plan your trip.
Table of Contents
Why Visit Rome?
Rome attracts millions of visitors yearly because it’s like stepping back in time. The city is an open-air museum where ancient history blends seamlessly with modern life. From the grand Colosseum to the artistic treasures of the Vatican, Rome offers something for everyone. Its vibrant piazzas, world-class gelato, and picturesque streets make it a place you’ll never forget.
Tips for Solo Travellers in Rome
- Stay Aware of Your Belongings
Rome is a safe city for solo travellers. Still, like many popular tourist destinations, it’s not immune to pickpockets, especially in crowded areas like the Colosseum, Trevi Fountain, or public transport. Keep your bag close, use a money belt or anti-theft backpack, and avoid carrying too many valuables when exploring.
- Join Group Tours for Social Interaction
Exploring Rome solo doesn’t mean you have to feel lonely. Group tours are a great way to meet fellow travellers and learn more about the city. Many walking tours cover top attractions like the Colosseum or Vatican City, and food tours are perfect for experiencing authentic Roman cuisine while mingling with others.
10 Best things to do in Rome for first-timers:
1 Visit the Colosseum
The Colosseum is one of the most iconic landmarks in Rome and a must-visit for any first-timer. Built nearly 2,000 years ago, this amphitheatre hosted gladiatorial contests and public spectacles. Walking through its ancient corridors gives you a glimpse of Rome’s incredible history.
- Opening Hours: Daily, 8:30 am – 4:30 pm (hours may vary seasonally)
- Address: Piazza del Colosseo, 1, 00184 Rome
Tour Options
- 1-Priority Access Colosseum, Roman Forum & Palatine Tour
- 2-Colosseum Tour with Access to the Gladiator Arena
- 3-Colosseum and Roman Forum Experience & Audio Guide App
2 Explore the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill
Right next to the Colosseum, the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill are essential stops for history lovers. The Forum was the centre of ancient Roman life, filled with temples, markets, and government buildings. Palatine Hill, overlooking the Forum, is where legend says Rome was founded.
- Opening Hours: Daily, 9:00 am – 4:30 pm (same ticket as the Colosseum) Palatine Hill 10:00 – 19:15.
- Cost: Included with the Colosseum ticket.
Tour Option
3 Toss a Coin in the Trevi Fountain
The Trevi Fountain is one of the most beautiful fountains in the world. Legend has it that tossing a coin over your left shoulder ensures you’ll return to Rome someday. Even if you don’t believe in superstitions, the stunning Baroque design is worth a visit.
- Opening Hours: Open 24/7
- Address: Piazza di Trevi, 00187 Rome
- Cost: Free.
Tip: The best place to take a photo is from the top floor of the United Colors of Benetton window.
4 Tour the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel
The Vatican Museums house some of the world’s most significant art collections, including Michelangelo’s masterpiece on the Sistine Chapel ceiling. Book your tickets in advance, as the queues can be incredibly long.
- Opening Hours: Monday to Saturday, 9:00 am – 4:00 pm
- Address: Viale Vaticano, 00165 Vatican City
5 St. Peter’s Basilica and Square
St. Peter’s Basilica is a masterpiece of Renaissance architecture and the largest church in the world. Climb to the top of the dome for breathtaking views of Vatican City and beyond. The square is also iconic, especially during the Pope’s Sunday blessing.
- Opening Hours: Daily, 7:00 am – 7:00 pm April – September (climb to the dome closes earlier) October-March 7 am-6.30 pm
- Address: Piazza San Pietro, 00120 Vatican City
Tour Option:
6 Wander Around Powered by GetYourGuide
Piazza Navona is one of Rome’s most famous squares, known for its elegant fountains, lively atmosphere, and surrounding cafes. The Fountain of the Four Rivers, designed by Bernini, is the highlight. This is a great spot to relax and soak up the local vibe.
- Opening Hours: Open 24/7
- Address: Piazza Navona, 00186 Rome
- Cost: Free.
7 Walk Through the Pantheon
The Pantheon is a marvel of ancient engineering and one of the best-preserved Roman buildings. Its massive dome, with a hole at the top (the oculus), is an architectural wonder. Famous figures like the painter Raphael rest there.
- Opening Hours: Daily, 9:00 am – 6:30 pm
- Address: Piazza della Rotonda, 00186 Rome
8 Climb the Spanish Steps
The Spanish Steps are a popular meeting spot and offer fantastic city views. From here, you can explore the nearby high-end shopping streets like Via Condotti or enjoy the beauty of the Baroque-style staircase.
- Opening Hours: Open 24/7
- Address: Piazza di Spagna, 00187 Rome
- Cost: Free.
9 Stroll Through Trastevere
Trastevere is a charming neighbourhood with narrow cobblestone streets, colourful buildings, and cosy trattorias. It’s the perfect place to wander, enjoy a leisurely meal, or explore hidden gems like the Basilica of Santa Maria in Trastevere.
- Opening Hours: Always open (individual attractions may vary)
- Address: Trastevere, Rome
- Cost: Free to explore; costs vary for food or attractions.
Tour Options:
- 1 Trastevere & Campo de Fiori Street Food Walking Tour
- 2 Trastevere Guided Food and Wine Tour with 20+ Tastings
- 3 Twilight Trastevere Food Tour with Wine Tasting
10 Discover the Catacombs
Rome’s catacombs are underground burial sites dating back to early Christianity. The most popular Catacombs are San Sebastiano and San Callisto, which are best explored on a guided tour.
- Opening Hours: Varies by site, generally 9:00 am – 12:00 pm and 2:00 pm – 5:00 pm
- Address: Via Appia Antica, 136 (San Sebastiano) and Via Appia Antica, 126 (San Callisto)
Tour Options:
- 1 Crypts and Catacombs Underground Tour with Transfers
- 2 Appian Way E-Bike Tour Catacombs, Aqueducts & Picnic
Tips for Solo Travellers
Rome is best explored on foot, so wear comfortable shoes and take your time soaking in the atmosphere. Plan your visits to major attractions early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds. And, of course, remember to indulge in plenty of gelato, pizza, and pasta!
With this guide, you’re all set for an unforgettable trip to Rome. Enjoy every moment in the Eternal City!” Unlocking the Eternal City: Top 10 Must-See Attractions in Rome for First-Time Visitors!”
Europe Tours
If you are anything like me, who loves to explore loads of places while I am visiting a destination, then a tour might be worth looking at. A tour is the perfect choice if you are a solo traveller who would love to see many places but feels uncomfortable alone.
I can help you book your European trip. All you have to do is click the link, check the details, and message me through the website! It is that easy.
Tour Options
- Venice Rome & Santorini 4 Star W/BBQ on a Boat
- Italian Triple Centre with A World Wonder
- Italy By High-Speed Train
- 8-day Best of Italy: Rome, Florence & Venice
Thanks for taking the time to read this article. I hope this post has given you the information you need. If you have any recommendations, tips or advice, I would love for you to share them in the comment section below!
This post may contain affiliate links, meaning we may receive a commission at no extra cost if you purchase through a link. Please see our full disclosure for further information.
Check out my Instagram page or join the Truly Expat Facebook group.
Pin it for later
