12 Things To Do In Rome That Are Worth The Hype

Rome rewards strategy. The icons are every bit as spectacular as you’ve imagined—if you time them right, book key entries ahead, and thread in neighborhood evenings and parks for balance. This curated list blends the must-sees with premium, family-friendly tips so you can build a Rome itinerary that’s polished, not complicated. The short version: secure timed entries for the busiest sights, go early or late to reduce lines, and use small-group tours where storytelling and special access actually elevate the experience. Here’s exactly how to see the classics—without the chaos.

Rome is eternally popular for good reason. These 15 experiences balance the icons with local flavor, and they’re genuinely worth your time. Each entry includes what makes it special, how to do it, and a trusted source to plan your visit.

1. Step Inside the Colosseum, Then Walk the Forum and Palatine Hill

• Why it’s worth it: The Colosseum is the world’s most famous amphitheater; pairing it with the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill lets you see the heart of ancient Rome in one sweep.
• How to do it: Book a timed-entry ticket in advance (mandatory) for the Colosseum; most tickets also include the Forum and Palatine Hill on the same or next day.
• Good to know: Standard Colosseum tickets are time-bound; more extensive options (arena/underground) sell out first. Official info: https://parcocolosseo.it/en/ and ticket details: https://parcocolosseo.it/en/ticket-office/

Source: Parco archeologico del Colosseo (official)