Things to Do in Rome: Hidden Gems and Must See Classics

Have you ever been to Rome? When I first started traveling, I must admit that the eternal city was far down on my list. EVERYONE goes to Rome. Why should I? Well here’s the truth of it. Rome can be exactly what you expect it to be: a historical place that you know you are supposed to see. But with a little bit of planning, a mindset filled with wonder, and a few good recommendations, Rome will become the magical destination that makes you relive the first moment you laid eyes on the Trevi fountain every single time you eat a plate of pasta. Keep reading to discover all the Things to Do in Rome, From the Hidden Gems to the Must See Classics.

A little bit of both plus a few good restaurant recommendations just might make you fall in love with Rome like I did.  

My Parent’s Love Affair with Rome

Rome is a city that welcomes nearly NINE MILLION tourists every year, and it was just not on my list. But then something happened. My PARENTS went to Rome, and fell in love with it.

Their passion for Rome was contagious! One night, as we shared a plate of pasta and a Chianti, my Dad started talking about the Trevi fountain. And he wasn’t just talking, he could’ve been writing a sonnet about it’s beauty, detail and history. By the way, can you tell that I’m a music teacher?

And then my Mom took her turn, and sang an Aria about Nonna- who so famously creates an environment at Trattoria der Pallaro that makes her guests feel like they are dining at their own Nonna’s, or Grandmother’s house on a Sunday.

The Rome I love: Hidden Gems and Must See Classics

They made me want to go there- to experience the history, culture, and romance of this city that’s been around since 753BC. And today?  That is what I’m going to do for you. I’m going to share MY passion for Rome that my parents shared with me.

I will share my tried and true lists of restaurants and things to do, along with sprinkling in the perspective of my parents as well. Together we will take your time in Rome from average, to the kind of Roman experience that is more authentic, and WAY more fun.  

Where to Stay in Rome:

I have talked to folks that did NOT enjoy Rome, and I’ve talked to those that absolutely loved it! One of the key differences between these two groups seems to be the area they chose as their home base. Where you stay really does matter.

Trastevere (TREST-ev-AIR-reh)

Ah the Trastevere. This free spirited and artistic area can be found on the West side of the Tiber River- just South of Vatican City. This is a side of Rome that I love so much, and you truly MUST SEE! So if you want to experience the Hidden Gems and Must See Classics of Rome? You will stay here too.  

I rented a room in the Trastevere through AirBnb at the advice of my Parents who stayed in this area as well.  My host was a lovely Roman woman who greeted me with open arms, and an espresso.  My family is part Italian, and within moments I felt like I was surrounded by MY family, but this time I was in ROME!  Now THIS was the kind of hospitality I had hoped for. 

A Wanderer’s Paradise

Concerned about being too far from the places you want to see? Don’t be. Rome is incredibly spread out, and you will be walking a lot anyway.  Plus the Trastevere is a wanderer’s paradise. The twists and turns of the Trastevere are MAGIC! It is also home to Spirito DiVino, a Jewish Synogogue turned restaurant that dates back to 80 BC which makes it older than the Colosseum!

Staying in the Trastevere will also allow you to frequent the bridges over the Tiber River. Many of them are pedestrian bridges where you may be lucky enough to hear musicians playing day and night.

The Prati Neighborhood:

When I visited Rome for the 2nd time, I stayed at a B & B in the Prati neighborhood- just over the river. I cannot tell you how enjoyable it was to walk over the Ponte St. Angelo numerous times a day- especially at night when it was all lit up in a glow.  

The Villa Borghese

Another area to consider is atop the Spanish Steps, a little East, and near the Villa Borghese. This neighborhood is a bit more touristy than the Trastevere, but you will be closer to more of the Roman must-see classics.  

I myself stumbled upon this slice of Rome by chance! I had just enjoyed a late lunch at the Mirabelle, which has a view that I had only seen in my dreams- years before I ever visited Italy. It is the perfect spot for an apertivo, and it will take your breath away. 

The Hotel Smeraldo

Tucked between the Regola and Centro Storico neighborhoods of Rome is Hotel Smeraldo. This is the hotel that my Parents won’t stop talking about! And the neighborhood is close to the must see classics along with the Trastevere. Best of both worlds.

So naturally, we will be staying here for a few nights next summer when our family heads to Italy for our very first family trip overseas. I can already see myself enjoying an apertivo on their rooftop. A cocktail with an incredible view is one of my favorite outdoor activities!

♥Le Meridien Rome, River Palace Hotel, Palazzo Ripetta-Relais & Chateaux, and Arco del Lauro B &B also caught my eye.

My 2 week Italy Itinerary for Summer 2026

As I mentioned, my family is going to Italy! Click here to read about the 2 week trip to Italy that we are planning for summer 2026. It’s one of the best itineraries I’ve ever planned. We are doing a wonderful mix of Hidden Gems and Must See Classics all over Italy. You may even decide to use it for yourself.

Ask the Locals! Things to Do in Rome: Hidden Gems and Must See Classics

If you find yourself in conversation with a local, ask them what they love about their city.  Do not underestimate the power of other people’s experiences. You may be lucky enough to walk away with a life-long friend, but the chances are pretty high that you’ll end up with a great Rome restaurant recommendation.

♥Keep reading for my Rome restaurant List!

Let Google Maps be your Travel Guide – especially with Rome Restaurants

I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again. Do your research ahead of time, and favorite everything on your Google Maps. Especially when it comes to Rome restaurants! My Parents agree that you need to plan ahead in order to get the Roman food experience you’ve been dreaming of. 

It can be challenging when you are on the go all day to choose a Rome restaurant wisely, so please trust us when we tell you that your tastebuds will thank you for doing a little research.  Otherwise you will be hangry, and we all know how easy it is to make snap decisions when that happens!

Enjoying Rome vs. Seeing Rome:  How long should you stay?  

Deciding how long to stay in Rome is a hot topic. Someone once told me that 3 days was enough, but here’s the thing: Three days will NEVER be enough time if you give in to the Roman way of slowing down, and enjoying the little things in life. 

Espresso and a pastry in the morning. Sight seeing.  Lunch and more Espresso in the afternoon.  More Roman Sights.  Pasta.  More Pasta.  If you try to SEE Rome instead of ENJOYING Rome, you have already made a big mistake. So give yourself time,  plan enough, but not too much, and let yourself wander the same cobblestones of Rome that Julius Caesar walked on.

The Classics: Hidden Gems and Must See Classics

I have struggled to write about Rome, because I love this city with all my heart! And I want you to love it too. So go fix yourself an apertivo, and get ready to take notes as I share my favorite things to do in Rome.

The Colosseum

Make a reservation, and GO EARLY. You will be happy you did. As soon as I arrived in Rome, I made my way to see the truly enormous piece of history. The Colosseum IS ROME. To see it with my own eyes was one of the gasp worth moments that I live for. 

A few days after I arrived in Rome, I went inside the Colosseum with the Rick Steves app as my guide. He told me all about the Gladiators that used to fight to the death, and the history only made this place more special to me. 

Tip: Summer in Rome is HOT. At these times of year, it’s best to go to the Colosseum in the morning or at night.

The Roman Forum

To the Naked Eye, the Forum would be a few pillars, random groups of rocks, and a bunch of people walking around. I recommend seeking out a guide whether you hire someone or do what I did and download the Rick Steves app.

Hiring a person to guide you can be pricey, but this dynamic app is not only a steal, but the content is truly a pot of gold!  Plus you can pause it whenever you want to. 

Rick Steves, the OG Traveler himself, will help you uncover a world of history, dramatic deceit, and death amongst the rubble of the forum. These TRUE stories are so unbelievable! They’ve been writing about them for thousands of years, and they are so captivating that I guarantee they’ll be writing about them for a thousand more.   

Vatican City, and the Vatican Museum

Did you know that Vatican City is its own country? Religious or not, The Vatican is a must see, as the historic depth and beauty are astounding. 

Purchase your tickets ahead of time, and use my favorite app for the perfect audio tour. The Museum is HUGE.  Please trust me when I tell you that you will need a guide. 

The Sistene Chapel

And for the grand finale of your Vatican tour with the Rick Steves app, you will walk into the Sistene Chapel. I can still remember him telling me exactly where to walk to when I entered, and so I did. I remember being a little nervous. This was the Sistene Chapel. Would it be as beautiful as I expected it to be? I found a seat through his guidance, took a deep breath and looked up.

There it was. The ceiling of the Sistene Chapel- Michelangelo’s greatest work of art. My eyes moved all around to take in the different scenes of The Book of Genesis including the one that made me cry in the most innocent and beautiful way…and still gives me the chills. The Creation of Man. It really was as remarkable as they say. Yes, the painting is on the ceiling. But somehow I felt like the figures in the painting were reaching out to me as well.

The Spanish Steps

I first saw the Spanish steps at golden hour- That time of day when a higher being seems to be putting a spotlight over the world in the most beautiful golden hue. John Keats, the great English poet lived next door for a part of his life, and I can’t help but wonder how many poems were inspired by the absolute Romance of the 138 grand steps that lead up to the Trinita dei Monti Church.  

I encourage you to walk all the way up. Atop the steps you will find another beautiful view of Rome and a quieter neighborhood.

The Trevi Fountain

As I previously mentioned, I did not want to go to Rome. I had heard that it was just too touristy- which was quite the turn off for someone like me who was in search of Italian moments that were off the beaten path.

But when my Parents arrived home from their trip to Rome they fell into a joyful and love filled haze as they reminisced about Rome. On a historic level, they had just walked on the same cobblestones as Julius Caesar and laid eyes on the miraculous ceiling of the Sistene Chapel. But there was also a romance to it all.

And then my Dad told me about the Trevi fountain. From the sheer size of this magnificent fountain, to the story that each sculpture whispered into the water as it rushed into the pool below- or at least that’s the conversation I remember. I had already started drifting into my own Roman wonderland as I listened to their stories about the Trevi . This was more than just a monument. And that’s when I knew that I had to see it with my own eyes as well.

The Trevi Fountain: A must both night and day

When it was finally my turn to stand in front of the Trevi fountain for the first time, I immediately understood the magic. Even though I was surrounded by crowds of people- I didn’t really see them. All I could see was the Trevi in its powerful yet somehow peaceful glory.

The Trevi fountain is a breathtaking work of art. Just to stand in its presence was a moment that I will never forget and I made my way back at least 3 times while in Rome. I recommend visiting both night, and day.

Maybe it was the incredible details of the sculptures, or perhaps the power of the fountain that made me feel a calm sense of joy. But all I know is that taking in the prowess of Oceanus with gelato is a must in the Eternal City of Rome. I can’t wait to go back!

The Pantheon 

This ancient Roman structure was completed around 126-128 A.D. and while today it serves as a Catholic Church, it was once believed to be a temple for the Roman Gods. 

While I have never been inside, Many of my most beloved Roman memories happened in the shadow of the Pantheon at La Rosetta. Let’s just say it all started with a chilled glass of Sicilian Red from a handsome Roman man, but I digress! This mammoth piece of architecture with a domed ceiling is larger than life. And as Michaelangelo reportedly said: It was the design of angels. Not of man. 

Ponte Sant’Angelo

This bridge has served as a safe passage, a place of deadly warning, and a place of artistic creation.  This is Rome afterall! A complicated city that had a glorious rise, and a dramatic fall, And whether you are mystifyed by the 10 heavenly angels that lead you to the majestic Castel Sant’Angelo, or are completely obsessed with all of the legends and history that surround it, this is a place that is a must see.  

I will never forget meeting Tascha, a fellow solo traveler from California. We exchanged stories, took each other’s photograph, and will be forever connected by those moments we shared.  Solo travel is very special to me, and I will never tire of meeting strangers, learning their stories, and spending time doing whatever my heart desires. There is magic in solitude, but only for those who wish to discover it.

♥Click here to read my 16 Tips for Solo Travel

Ponte Sant’Angelo at Night

And then there was the time that I was crossing the bridge on my last night in Rome. I must admit that I had just experienced the most dramatic goodbye (If you’ve seen Roman Holiday you’ll understand).  The angels were all aglow and the Castle was casting its beam in a way that made me feel like my life as a rom com was only just beginning.

Keep reading to hear about the night that started with a few tears but ended with joy.

Piazza Navona

When you step onto the Piazza for the first time, you are greeted by a fountain.  A work of art!  And as you try to decipher the story that the figures of the fountain are trying to tell you…. You notice how beautiful the buildings are that surround it. Then you notice that there are actually 3 fountains on this grand piazza that ask to you to stay awhile.

So pull up a chair, order a Caprese salad, and while you’re at it?  A glass of Prosecco or an Aperol Spritz may be the perfect addition to the beauty that surrounds you.  And don’t just take my word for it, The Evans Girls kept coming back here as well.  To feel “All Roman!” and truly just take it all in.  

♥Heading to Rome? Click here to find me on Instagram and let me know on my instagram what you loved most!

Hidden Gems: Things to Do in Rome: Hidden Gems and Must See Classics

The Aventine Keyhole: Hidden Gems of Rome

What if I told you that one look into the keyhole of a door could transport you to a place of wonder and possibility? But I will warn you, there tends to be a line, so go mid-afternoon when everyone else is enjoying their afternoon slumber. 

Even though I knew what I would see, I still held my breath as I leaned in, closed one eye, and peered through The Keyhole of St. Peter’s Basilica that was redesigned around 1765. I only saw it for a moment, but something about it was just so special that it left an imprint on my memory for all time.

To me, the Keyhole is also a must see in Rome because it represents the power of artistic creativity that always went hand in hand with the power of the Roman Empire. And these Roman ideals continue to captivate the world in the most unexpected ways.

The Giardino degli Aranci: Hidden Gems of Rome

A hop skip and a jump along the same street as the Keyhole, you will find the Giardino degli Aranci, or The Garden of Oranges.  Through an iron gate, and down a gravel walkway, you will find a panoramic view of Rome, with  St. Peter’s Basilica at the Center of it all.

It was here that I enjoyed a sandwich from the heavens, a little bit of shade from Rome’s Iconic Pine Trees, and a few quiet hours where I pondered all of the historical figures that were also looking for a few moments away from the heat, and the crowds… just like me.    

Parco del Gianicolo: Hidden Gems of Rome

I have visited Rome in both June and July. and both of these months are hot hot hot! The Park was recommended to me as an escape from the heat, and it did just that! The 30 acre park also had a botanical garden and an abundance of shade. It was the perfect space to wander and enjoy the outdoors in a more comfortable setting.

If you make your way to the top of the Giancolo Hill you will be rewarded with stunning view of Rome. You will also find fountains and monuments throughout the park that will only add to your discovery of all of Rome’s history.

Escape the Heat with a picnic

When I go back to Rome, I will make sure to bring a picnic, a frisbee, and I’ll make sure to go at noon to watch the Giancolo canon fire a blank shot towards the Tiber River. Keep in mind that there is a fee of 5-8 Euro to enter the park.

Entering the park

When I went the first time, I struggled to find the entrance of the Park. I just found it on my Google Maps and started walking, but it was not that easy as the park does not have many entrances.

I would plan to enter at the top of Janiculum hill or you can enter near Vatican City and the Church of Sant’Onofrio. This is where I will plan on entering on my next visit. The church and its grounds look stunning and filled with more of the Roman History that I crave!

Gregory’s Jazz Club: Hidden Gems of Rome

I had just said the most dramatic goodbye to the Italian man that had been making my heart skip a beat. My heart was quite heavy as I walked across the Ponte Sant’Angelo. My eyes were filled with tears as I tried to feel grateful for these Roman memories I was so lucky to call my own.

It was a somber moment- but then suddenly I heard the sound of a drum stick dancing on a cymbal. I looked over to see an outdoor jazz club on the Tiber River!

A Musician’s Roman Paradise

As a music educator from Chicago, spending my last few hours listening to beautiful music underneath the glow of the Castle was exactly what I needed to transition my mindset from Holiday Julie to the life that awaited me back home.  

And so this night would not be the night that I whispered to the angels on the bridge through tears asking for advice on when love would find me again…. It would be the night that I discovered that Rome embraces the power of music.

Where to find Gregory’s Jazz Club – Hidden Gems in Rome

Gregory’s Jazz Club can be found all year round near the Spanish Steps and I have heard the ambiance is the perfect setting for a memorable jazz set. This is Rome after all! It is unclear if Gregory’s still has their club on the river during the summer, but I’ll check back in when I find out.

The Many Churches of Rome

In Rome, I encourage you to walk into churches- even if you’ve never heard of them. There are beautiful paintings and sculptures EVERYWHERE. Here a few churches to add to your Google Maps that are not on the usual tourist’s radar. I have either visited these churches myself or they have been recommended by Bob and Jane.

Basilica of San Pietro in Vincoli

This church houses the chains that imprisoned St. Peter along with Michelangelo’s Sculpture of Moses which was commissioned by Pope Julius II as his funeral monument, and completed in 1545.

Basilica of Santa Maria Sopra Minerva

Michelangelo’s “The Risen Christ” which was completed in 1521 and can be found at the Basilica of Santa Maria Sopra Minerva. Michelangelo’s paintings and sculptures are truly a must see in Rome.

San Luigi deli Fancesi

You can see 3 Caravaggio paintings depicting the life of Matthew at San Luigi deli Fancesi. These paintings are a hidden gem of Rome so you may not have to compete with lots of tourists when you visit.

Santa Maria del Popolo

This is the church that the Roman writer took me to with the promise of seeing “Caravaggio’s Pictures.” We saw the “Crucifixion of Saint Peter” and the “Conversion of Saint Paul”

We also visited the Basilica of St. Cecilia in the Trastevere area of Rome. St. Cecilia was the patron saint of music- which was very meaningful to me as a musician and band director.

Concerts in Churches- Hidden Gems in Rome

While in Rome, I encourage you to keep your eyes open for concerts at the many churches you will find as you stroll along. That’s exactly what I did as I made my way home one afternoon. I noticed a poster outside of Chiesa di Santa Maria della Scala which translates to “Holy Mary of the Staircase.” It was promoting a piano and choral concert of the works of Schubert and Vivaldi the next evening. And the church was right down the street from where I was staying.

And so I went! This was a beautiful musical moment for me. Music is truly an international language, and to see the director do his thing and conduct the musicians in this historic church that was built at the turn of the 17th century was quite remarkable. It was also a reminder of the ways in which we are all connected. If only I could conduct my students in a place of great art, holiness and history! “Hot Cross Buns” would never be the same.

2 Week Italy Itinerary: My Formula for the Perfect Trip

Read more about my chance encounter with the Roman writer in my article about how to plan the perfect 2 week trip to Italy. The article includes details on my upcoming trip to Rome, Florence, Bologna, and a villa in the Tuscan Countryside. I also give you ideas on how to choose your own destinations for a trip that lets you enjoy Italy the way it was intended.

Water in Rome: Things to Do in Rome: Hidden Gems and Must See Classics

From traditional water spiggots to the most beautiful stone fountains that have quenched the thirst of the Romans for thousands of years.  I encourage you to carry an empty water bottle.  Because in Rome? you will never go thirsty. The water in Rome is some of the cleanest (and most delicious water) I have ever had.  

Getting around Rome

In Rome, you must plan to walk as you make your way through your list of Things to Do in Rome. While taxis are available, and yes, there is public transportation, there is only one way to trust that you will arrive to a destination on time:  on foot, or by bike.  Public transportation is not always reliable, and finding a taxi stand is not always convenient.  It’s also important to note that Ride share services in Rome are indeed available, yet not as readily as many countries are used to.  

Mangia Mangi! Where to Eat in Rome

The best Rome restaurants will not be on the busiest streets- they will be just around the bend. And in Rome, with countless restaurants to choose from, the best course of action is to do your homework. Because unfortunately, not all Rome restaurants are created equal.

Trattoria der Pallaro – a Hidden Gem in Rome

There was one Rome restaurant I knew I needed to go to, and that was Trattoria der Palero.  Bobby and Janie (my Parents) told me that they were greeted like family, and to this day they say it was the best meal that they had while in Rome. 

When I went, I told them that my Parents sent me. And just like that there were hugs, and within moments I was enjoying the kind of Roman experience you could only hope for.  A traditional, no fuss Italian meal surrounded by my new family for the next few hours.

Just like Sunday Dinner at your Nonna’s

A delicious multi-course meal of pastas, meats, cheeses, and a carafe of wine- of course!   I remember the picture my Mom took with Nonna, and the sheer joy on her face!  I of course have my own picture that is also filled with pure jubilation.  

Is it the food and wine that makes Nonna’s so special? Or could it be the fact that when you go to Rome in search of an authentic Italian experience, Nonna’s makes you feel like you’re in the middle of your own Roman dream coming true.

I am so grateful to have been given this Rome restaurant recommendation by my Parents via the OG Traveler himself: Rick Steves. Don’t forget to save Trattoria der Pallaro on your Google Maps before you go.

Rome Restaurants on my list: Hidden Gems and Must See Classics

Ristorante Pizzeria La Francescana (Rome restaurants on my list 👩‍💻)

On my second trip to Rome, I went to La Francescana on my very first night. This is one of the Rome restaurants that my hotel recommended. I enjoyed a glass of Chianti, Melon e prosciutto, and the most perfect plate of Pasta Carbonara. Prices are very reasonable, and the restaurant is near the Castel Sant’Angelo. It was perfect.

Da Gino al Parlamento

I went to Da Gino back in 2017 on my first trip to Rome. A celebrity chef recommended it as one of his favorite Rome restaurants so I made a bee line to try it myself. I enjoyed a simple and absolutely delicious plate of Cacio e pepe and a small carafe of red wine. The Prices were incredibly reasonable- just make sure to plan ahead and make a reservation. I have recommended this restaurant many times over the years and it never disappoints. The restaurant is near the Trevi fountain and the Pantheon.

La Rosetta

I enjoyed a glass of wine and oysters at La Rosetta which is positioned on a quaint side street in the shadow of the Pantheon. This restaurant is very seafood focused and I was very fond of their outdoor seating. I also shared a glass of chilled Sicilian Red with a new Roman friend who called La Rosetta one of his favorite Rome restaurants.

Ombré Rosse

4,000 reviews positive reviews on Google do not lie. I went to Ombré Rosse with my Air Bnb hostess and enjoy delicious wine, flatbread, and charcuterie all while listening to a rendition of John Mayer’s “Gravity” by a woman who loved Chicago for its Blues and the Chicago Bulls. They have since changed locations but it’s still tucked into my favorite neighborhood in Rome. The ever charming Trasteverde.

Santo Palato

According to a friend of mine who has been to Rome more times than I can count, Santo Palato is a must. Chefs from Chicago come to this Rome restaurant to work on their craft of making not only the best Italian dishes in Chicago, but some of the best food in Rome as well. This Rome restaurant is high on my list for Summer 2026.

Naumachia

This Traditional Tuscan Rome restaurant has dishes ranging from pizza to pasta in a rustic and informal atmosphere. This is on my list for 2026!

La Tavernaccia Da Bruno

From the pictures of the space to the stellar reviews on Google, this Rome restaurant is high on my list for Summer 2026. Comfort food in the Trastevere? Yes please. The Trastevere has the ability to create an atmosphere that is quite transcendental. I am going to close my eyes to imagine how blissful that will make a pasta and wine dinner at La Tavernaccia Da Bruno on a summer’s eve.

Trattoria Da Enzo al 29

As I am sure you’ve noticed by now, I love the Trastevere neighborhood. All I want to do is sit outside and eat classic and delicious plates of pasta and pizza with an Aperol Spritz or chilled red wine on a hot day. And I’d like to do that at Trattoria Da Enzo al 29. Over 9,000 positive reviews on Google do not lie! See you there.

Final Thoughts: Things to Do in Rome: Hidden Gems and Must See Classics

Roma Roma Roma! That’s what my taxi driver said with a loving enthusiasm as he drove me into the eternal city from the airport. And after 6 days in Rome I was singing the same praises while trying to decide if I loved Rome more than Paris. And even after thousands of years, the ancient city of Rome still has so much history, food, wine, and memorable moments to share with the people that come from all over the world just to stroll down their charming cobblestone streets. I cannot wait to go back to fall in love with Rome all over again.

Many thanks to my Parents for inspiring me to go to Rome the first time, and for all of our chats as I wrote this article. As you probably already guessed- in the Syperek household we think about the Roman Empire ALL THE TIME! I will never forget all of the delicious Italian wine and dinners that we shared while planning our trip to Italy next summer. I look forward to sharing a glass or two over a plate of Cacio e Pepe as we finally experience the great city of Rome side by side.

More articles about Italy

Click here to read about the 2 week trip to Italy that my family is planning for summer 2026. I will also give you tips on how to choose destinations and create your own Italy Itinerary where you spend more time spritzing and less time traveling between locations.