Discover the Best of Rome in 2025 With This Expert-Curated Guide

Welcome to the Eternal City in 2025

Rome in 2025 is not just a destination—it’s an experience that blends ancient glory with modern innovation. Travelers from around the world flock to the Italian capital to witness millennia of history, breathtaking architecture, vibrant street life, and world-renowned cuisine. But navigating Rome’s endless treasures can be overwhelming. That’s why we’ve created this expert-curated guide to help you explore the city’s most iconic and off-the-beaten-path attractions. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or returning to discover something new, knowing what to see in Rome this year will elevate your journey into something truly unforgettable.

What to See in Rome: Start with the Iconic Landmarks

When planning a trip to Rome, it’s impossible to skip the legendary sights that define its skyline. Begin your journey at the Colosseum, the most visited attraction in Italy and an enduring symbol of Rome’s imperial past. In 2025, enhanced virtual reality tours give visitors a thrilling look into gladiator battles and Roman entertainment. Next, stroll through the Roman Forum, where the ruins of ancient government buildings paint a vivid picture of daily life during the Republic and Empire.

From there, head to the Pantheon, whose nearly 2,000-year-old dome remains one of the greatest architectural feats in the world. Don’t miss the Trevi Fountain, where tradition suggests tossing in a coin ensures your return to Rome. These staples aren’t just must-sees—they’re living connections to the city’s deep and complex history. Anyone asking what to see in rome must start here.

Vatican City: The Spiritual and Artistic Heart

No guide to Rome would be complete without a visit to Vatican City, the smallest independent state in the world and the heart of the Catholic Church. In 2025, the Vatican Museums are more visitor-friendly than ever, offering timed entry, multilingual virtual tours, and crowd-free evening visits. Highlights include the Sistine Chapel, where Michelangelo’s ceiling frescoes continue to awe even the most seasoned travelers.

St. Peter’s Basilica remains one of the most powerful spiritual and architectural landmarks in the world. For panoramic views, climb (or take the elevator partway) to the top of the dome. Nearby, St. Peter’s Square hosts regular papal appearances and religious celebrations. Whether you’re religious or simply a lover of art and culture, this area answers the question of what to see in Rome with spiritual resonance and artistic mastery.

Hidden Gems and Neighborhood Charms

While Rome’s grandeur often steals the spotlight, its soul lies in its neighborhoods. In 2025, travelers are encouraged to explore areas like Trastevere, a bohemian district with cobblestone streets, artisan shops, and family-owned trattorias. Here, you’ll find authentic Roman life and an irresistible atmosphere come sunset.

Don’t overlook Monti, a fashionable yet historic neighborhood filled with vintage boutiques, wine bars, and archaeological surprises like Trajan’s Market. For modern vibes, head to Testaccio, a foodie paradise rooted in working-class tradition. The Jewish Ghetto, one of the oldest in Europe, blends historical significance with culinary delights like carciofi alla giudia (fried artichokes). These neighborhoods give rich answers to what to see in Rome beyond the guidebook.

Rome for Art & Architecture Enthusiasts

Rome is a museum in itself, but its curated spaces offer focused experiences for art lovers. The Galleria Borghese in Villa Borghese park is a highlight, showcasing Bernini sculptures and Caravaggio masterpieces. Entry is limited to timed slots, making for a more intimate viewing.

2025 also brings renewed interest in contemporary Rome. The MAXXI Museum (National Museum of 21st Century Arts) displays cutting-edge works in a stunning building designed by Zaha Hadid. The Centrale Montemartini, a lesser-known gem, exhibits classical sculptures against a backdrop of old industrial machinery—creating a fascinating contrast. Whether you’re into Renaissance, Baroque, or modern installations, discovering what to see in Rome includes diving into its ever-evolving art scene.

Culinary Adventures in the Capital

For many travelers, one of the best ways to experience Rome is through its cuisine. The food culture here is grounded in simplicity and quality, and 2025 is offering more dining options than ever—ranging from classic trattorias to Michelin-starred restaurants. Start with staples like carbonara, amatriciana, and cacio e pepe, served in traditional osterias across Campo de’ Fiori and Piazza Navona.

This year, culinary tours and cooking classes are trending. Learn how to make fresh pasta in a local kitchen or sip regional wines on a rooftop terrace. Don’t miss the Testaccio Market, where street food and local produce collide in delicious harmony. Vegan and gluten-free diets are also more widely accommodated in 2025 than ever before. If you’re exploring what to see in Rome, don’t forget to explore what to eat—it’s equally enlightening.

Rome’s Outdoor Escapes and Panoramic Views

Despite being a bustling metropolis, Rome is full of green spaces and tranquil escapes. The Villa Borghese Gardens offer sprawling lawns, shaded paths, and panoramic viewpoints from the Pincian Terrace. Rent a bike or a paddleboat on the lake, or enjoy an open-air movie night during summer festivals.

Another must-visit is the Orange Garden (Giardino degli Aranci) on Aventine Hill, which offers one of the best views over Rome. Don’t miss the Knights of Malta Keyhole, where a perfectly framed view of St. Peter’s dome awaits. The Gianicolo Hill also delivers unforgettable cityscapes, particularly at sunrise or sunset. For anyone pondering what to see in Rome, these peaceful settings show the city’s quieter, more poetic side.

Plan Smart: Tips for Navigating Rome in 2025

Rome in 2025 is well-prepared for modern travelers. Public transportation has improved, with new electric buses and simplified metro connections. Apps like ATAC Roma and Google Maps provide real-time transit updates, helping you navigate efficiently. Tourist passes like the Roma Pass and Omnia Card offer savings on entrance fees and skip-the-line privileges.

Book tickets for major attractions online to avoid long queues. Consider traveling in the shoulder seasons—spring and early fall—when weather is pleasant and crowds are thinner. Many attractions now offer extended hours, allowing for late-night visits that are less crowded and more atmospheric. If you’re building a custom itinerary of what to see in Rome, consider using travel planning tools powered by AI for optimized routes and real-time suggestions.

Final Thoughts

Rome is eternal for a reason. Its layers of history, art, faith, food, and everyday beauty offer something for every kind of traveler. In 2025, the city continues to evolve—honoring its ancient past while embracing modern experiences. Whether you’re captivated by the roar of the Colosseum, enchanted by the whispers in the Vatican, or delighted by a late-night gelato in Trastevere, Rome will move you.

Use this expert-curated guide to discover not just what to see in Rome, but how to feel it—deeply, joyfully, and memorably. The Eternal City is waiting.