Unique, fun and unforgettable ways to see 5 key sites in Rome

Known as the eternal city, Rome has been around for over two millennia. As a result, there are loads of things to do and countless choices to make. How do you sort through them and decide the sites in Rome you want to see?

You’ve come to the right place for help so you will have your best experience in Rome…one that is unique, fun and unforgettable. 

Most people agree that there are certain core things everyone should see and do in Rome. In general, I tend to agree. However, you can and should make these experiences uniquely yours. 

Here you’ll find answers and recommendations that help you make the right choices to transport your visit into “amazing and unforgettable” territory. So, let’s get started…

The Vatican Museums and St. Peter’s Basilica & Square

Putting these on the list is a little misleading because they aren’t part of Rome or even Italy for that matter. Instead, both are in Vatican City, the world’s smallest country.

Together, they are some of the most sacred places in Christendom and packed with history and art treasures.

Vatican Museums

The Vatican Museums are a huge complex of 26 museums that are housed in the living quarters of previous popes. 

There are almost 4 miles of collections from ancient times to present day. So, you need to pick and choose what to see. Come prepared to pace yourself and have a busy, enriching day.

Along with the main things you always hear about (Sistine Chapel, Raphael Rooms, Map and Tapestry Galleries), there is something of interest for everyone. Check these out to name a few:

• The Carriage Pavilion – A favorite of car enthusiasts and kids, see the different vehicles Popes have used from carriages to popemobiles. 
• The Ethnological Museum Anima Mundi – A collection of cultural, spiritual and artistic works from all over the world are on display. Works include prehistoric artifacts (some dating back two million years) as well as pre-Colombian, African, and Asian pieces.
• The Gregorian Etruscan Museum – Go back to a time before the Romans and see important works of the Etruscans from the 9th through 1st centuries B.C. A personal favorite of mine, it features an interactive experience within an Etruscan tomb. As a bonus, you get a view of Bramante’s double-helix staircase (the original from the 1500s).
• The Collection of Modern and Contemporary Art – Features notable international and Italian artists such as Matisse, Van Gogh, Chagall, and Manzù.
• Vatican Gardens – Take the tour for an interesting look at the outside spaces within Vatican City, including some beautiful fountains.

Key Tips/Make it Unique:

• Buy tickets online before you go AND purchase direct from the Vatican website.
• Consider this unique and special way to see the Vatican without the crowds.
• Purchase an audio guide (currently 7€). This lets you choose what you see and when.  Works are identified by number. When you see something of interest, key in the number to learn more. With this, you have the freedom to go at your own pace instead of following a guide’s set itinerary.  

St. Peter’s Basilica and Square

To fully appreciate why this is a top site to see in Rome, you need context – why it is here in the first place.

The short answer is that the square is where the Apostle Peter was crucified and the Basilica marks his burial site. (More on this below, along with a unique option to experience this more fully.)

Since Jesus appointed Peter as the rock of the church, the Basilica and square are two of the most revered and holy sites for Christians. Here you are surrounded by awe-inspiring beauty making it a not-to-be-missed experience.

Key Tips/Make it Unique

• Download and use the free Rick Steves audio tour of St. Peter’s Basilica. About an hour long, it covers the high points in the Basilica and square. Very user-friendly, you have the freedom to set your own pace and decide what to see in the world’s largest church (just stop, start, rewind, and skip as you choose).

• Take an elevator or climb (think vertical football field) the dome of St. Peter’s for an amazing view of Rome. Also, as you climb, make sure to look down inside the church and see it from a different perspective. Buy these tickets while at the Basilica for 10€ or 8€s respectively. The line to purchase is on the left side under the portico in the front.
• For a truly unique and special experience, tour St. Peter’s original gravesite far below the altar in the Basilica. This is an opportunity to see the ancient necropolis and make a pilgrimage to one of the holiest sites in Christianity. Each tour lasts 1 ½ hours with a maximum of 12 people. The Vatican schedules only a few tours each day. So, spaces are highly sought, and arrangements must be made far in advance. The entrance fee is currently 13€ which includes the guide. Make reservations for this Scavi Tour directly through the Vatican’s Excavations Office.

The Roman Forum and Colosseum

The Forum and Colosseum make the list because they were the heart of ancient Rome. Because of this, they’re really something everyone should experience if they can.

Both cover a lot of ground. So, most people stay on the beaten path and don’t realize the treasures tucked away within these vast spaces. There are a variety of ticket options to choose from. In particular, check out the SUPER ticket below for an amazing experience.

Key Tips/Make it Unique

Santa Maria Antiqua

Roman Curia (Senate)

House of Augustus

• Purchase a SUPER ticket to see some of these hidden gems. This gives you entry into the Roman Forum and Palatine (not the Colosseum) and several sites not included in general admission, including:
  • The House of Emperor Augustus
  • The Roman Senate House (Curia)
  • Santa Maria Antiqua – early Christian church with numerous frescoes, including the Oratory of the Forty Martyrs
• Walking through the ruins, it’s hard to imagine what it must have been like in ancient times. Fortunately, virtual reality technology now allows us to view these sites as if we were there at that time. To do this, either check it out beforehand to see the Forum and Colosseum or book one of several tours with virtual reality built-in while you’re there.  Make sure to check reviews as these vary in quality.
• To see the Colosseum in a softer but more dramatic way, consider booking an evening visit. If you go this route, make sure to choose a tour that includes seeing the underground tunnels and chambers as well as free time to explore on your own. 

Trastevere

Streets of Trastevere

Raphael’s Council of the Gods

Villa Farnesina

The Romans I talk with always encourage me to go across the river to Trastevere (trahs-TAY-veh-ray) and see a less touristy side of Rome.

Stroll the narrow, winding streets and absorb the vibe. Dine alfresco and people watch.

For Raphael lovers, the Villa Farnesina is a not-to-be-missed treasure. Raphael painted vibrant, earthy frescoes throughout this Renaissance villa. Built by his friend Agostino Chigi, the wealthiest man in Europe at the time, it is an insider look at the extravagance and luxury of wealthy families in the Renaissance.

Tradition says that Raphael became enamored with the baker’s daughter down the street at the bakery near the arch. He was so distracted that Agostino finally grew frustrated and kidnapped the woman to force Raphael to focus on painting. 

Take in the View and Stroll the Streets

Take time for a leisurely walk through the streets. Rome is an ancient city, and you can see and feel this all around you.

As you walk, think about people in history that tread these same streets – St. Peter, St. Paul, Popes, emperors, and famous writers, artists, poets along with countless others going about their daily routines in life.

A great route starts at the Piazza Navona, then over to Piazza Rotondo (with quick visit to the Pantheon), finally meander over to the Trevi Fountain (toss a coin in to guarantee your return). Along the way, you’ll see several of Rome’s enchanting fountains and ancient obelisks. Make sure to treat yourself to gelato as you wander.

The view of Rome from the dome of St. Peter’s Basilica mentioned earlier is one of the best in Rome. Another great choice is the spectacular vista at the summit of the Pincian Hill, which includes a view of the Vatican.  

The Pincio Terrace overlooks Piazza del Popolo from on high. A great view any time of day; however, evenings at sunset are a particular highlight. The mood then is upbeat with interesting displays from vendors and people meandering as they enjoy the end of the day. 

Connect with an Experience

So many people miss this last one because it isn’t even on their radar. However, I assure you that including it may likely be one of the highlights of your trip.

Today there are a lot of choices available to connect with Italians and learn something new in the process. These can be grouped under general headings such as cultural/history, food, nature/outdoor, and fashion. 

I try to include at least one experience each time I’m in Italy. All have enriched my life with new friends and a deeper understanding of Italian perspectives.

Here are two great experiences to try through Airbnb:

Handmade Pasta with Grandma

Here you learn pasta making from the experts – Italian grandmas. Get away to the small village of Palombara Sabina. Transportation and arrangements are all taken care of and included in the price of the Handmade Pasta with Grandma experience.

You’ll feel like you’re part of a big Italian family and hear stories that touch your heart. Loads of fun with knowledge you can take back and use to make pasta at home the Italian way.

Check out the pasta maker they use and recommend under the Italy at Home section. Each time I make pasta, I remember my time there fondly.

Ancient Mosaic-Making

Reviews call this a “once-in-a-lifetime” experience. With the Ancient Mosaic-Making experience, you gain insight and appreciation for what goes into making all those beautiful mosaics you are seeing in churches, museums, and ancient Roman sites. 

While pricier than others, it is hosted by a family who has been creating and restoring mosaics for over a hundred years. You meet in their Monti workshop and are surrounded by inspiring mosaics as you work to create your own piece to take home. A treasured souvenir, uniquely your own!

Each year, millions visit Rome. Here you have what you need to step away from the “common” experience, see these sites, and make your visit to Rome unique.

The eternal city is unlike any other. Excited? I hope so! Make your time there the amazing, unique, and unforgettable experience you deserve. Buon viaggio! 

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