Rome: The Best Things to Do in Italy's Capital

If you're after a city break like no other, Rome is your place. It doesn't just serve up breathtaking historic sites — it has an atmosphere all its own, where the ancient and the modern sit side by side, past and present in the same frame. Every corner of the city tells a story, and every street holds a new bit of magic waiting to pull you in.

I was in Rome recently, and during my visit I realised this is no ordinary tourist town — it's a living, breathing city, packed with flavour, culture and history you won't find anywhere else. I decided to share my experiences, along with tips that will help you make the most of your time in this wonderful city and everything it has to offer.

The smartest way to get around Rome

I started my visit to Rome with one realisation: getting around can be a little confusing if you don't know the ropes. Every big city has public transport, but in Rome it can be a challenge without a bit of planning. So here's my trick — eSIMfly.

Because I didn't want to get stranded without internet (I had to know how to reach every site, where to eat and what to buy), I decided to travel with eSIMfly. With eSIMfly, I never had to swap out a SIM card every time I landed in a new country. It's a brilliant solution for travellers who want to get online conveniently and cheaply. In Rome, the eSIMfly service works perfectly, letting you connect anywhere in the city without glitches or hassle.

Keep in mind that Rome has several kinds of public transport — buses, the metro and trams. The Rome metro doesn't always reach the most central areas, but it's very convenient and its lines get you close to nearly everything important. Using eSIMfly also means you can look up routes easily at any time, with GPS and maps at your fingertips.

Sites you simply have to see

1. The Colosseum — a piece of ancient history

The Colosseum is without a doubt one of the most famous sites in the city, and I was genuinely taken aback by the sheer scale and power of the structure. This is where the legendary gladiator battles took place, where men and myths fought their way into Rome's history forever. Standing in front of the Colosseum, you understand exactly why visitors come here from all over the world.

I recommend booking tickets in advance, because the queues can be very long, especially in peak season. And if you really want to grasp the meaning of the place, take a guided tour. It doesn't just give you rich historical background — it helps you see the site in a different, far deeper way.

2. The Vatican — a symbol of faith and art

The Vatican is one of the holiest places in the world, and it's absolutely worth a visit for anyone. It isn't only a religious site — it's also a place of extraordinary art. Stepping into the Vatican Museums means stepping into a world of masterpieces. Michelangelo's Sistine Chapel ceiling is one of the greatest artistic treasures of all time, and it's an experience nothing else compares to.

3. Piazza Navona — the authentic Rome

Of course, you can't visit Rome without seeing Piazza Navona. It's a mesmerising square, full of magnificent statues, beautiful fountains and an enchanting atmosphere. In Piazza Navona you'll find excellent Italian restaurants, cafés and clusters of street artists. It's worth coming during the day, but evening is the perfect time to enjoy the place, when it glows in the soft light of the lamps.

4. The Trevi Fountain — where every wish comes true

The Trevi Fountain is one of the most famous fountains in the world, and visiting it is a must in Rome. It's not just a beautiful fountain — it's a place where you can make your wish come true. All you have to do is toss a coin into the water and make a wish. I threw my coin in, naturally, and thought about how much I'd like to come back to this incredible city again.

Eating in Rome — flavours you won't forget

Food in Rome is an experience in its own right. If you love Italian cooking, you'll find the very best of it here — from pasta to pizza to unique local specialities. While I was in the city, every single dish left me wanting more.

Pizza in Rome — every bite better than the last

There's something special about Roman pizza. It's thin, crisp and delicious in a way you won't find anywhere else. One of the places I'd recommend for pizza in Rome is Pizzarium. It's a small spot, but an excellent one, serving authentic Roman pizza. I recommend trying the cheese and tomato — simply wonderful!

Gelato — where every scoop is a work of art

There's nothing like Italian gelato, and Rome has some of the best places anywhere to try it fresh. Institutions like Giolitti and Frigidarium serve gelato in incredible flavours that will have you coming back again and again. I recommend the dark Italian chocolate or the vanilla — pure pleasure.

Restaurants worth your time in Rome

Rome has a wide range of restaurants serving traditional food, and they're all worth a visit. One I particularly recommend is Trattoria da Enzo al 29, which serves fresh pasta and superb local dishes. It isn't overly expensive, and the food is always fresh and authentic.

History and art — Rome is full of surprises

If you love history and art, Rome is the perfect place for you. The city has several important museums, and a visit to the Capitoline Museums, for instance, is essential for anyone who wants to learn about the city's history in an interactive and fascinating way.

The Capitoline Museums — where time stands still

The Capitoline Museums are among the oldest museums in the world, and they offer visitors a chance to get to know a deeper Rome. With magnificent collections of sculpture, painting and artworks from Roman history, this is a place where every step conveys the city's power.

Tips for travellers in Rome

1. Handle your money smartly: Rome is an expensive city, so it's worth planning your budget in advance. Use international credit cards or a service like eSIMfly to save money and avoid unnecessary costs.

2. Skip the queues: Rome has a lot of queues, especially in summer. I recommend buying tickets in advance for the major sites like the Colosseum and the Vatican.

3. Shopping in Rome: If you love shopping, Rome is paradise. Head for streets like Via Condotti and Via del Corso, where you'll find well-known designer stores. And if you want original souvenirs, there are wonderful markets such as the San Lorenzo market.

In summary: Rome — an unforgettable experience

Rome is a city you have to feel in order to understand its beauty. Every place, every site, every street carries a special kind of magic that stays with you throughout your visit. With eSIMfly, you can stay connected and plan your entire trip easily and comfortably, turning your time in the city into something relaxed and enjoyable. I can't wait to go back — Rome definitely left me with sweet memories.

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