Off the Beaten Path Rome - Rome’s Best-Kept Secrets

In a time when we talk a lot about over-tourism, Rome seems to be turning into an amusement park for tourists, with long queues and crowded attractions (or at least its centro storico). But you can still enjoy this magnificent city without constantly feeling like just another sheep in the herd. While major landmarks—like Piazza Navona, Via dei Fori Imperiali (the Roman Forum), and the Capitoline Museums on Capitoline Hill—are essential visits, there are hidden gems in the Eternal City worth discovering. As lovers of exploring off the beaten path, we’ve ventured beyond the usual spots.

Even as a frequent visitor, I haven’t yet seen everything Rome has to offer. The city’s wealth of hidden treasures and lesser-known sites provides endless exploration opportunities. In this complete guide, I’ll share some of the best things to see and do beyond the obvious tourist hotspots. Discover great places near the charming Palatine Hill and savor a delicious food tour featuring local delights like Cacio e Pepe. Explore various hidden gems like the Jewish Ghetto and enjoy serene views along the Tiber River.

Whether you have a two-day itinerary or are planning a four-day adventure, this guide will help you uncover Rome’s lesser-known wonders and the non touristy things to do in Rome and make the most of your visit, even if you’ve already ticked off the classics like Piazza di Spagna.

Don't miss the Coppedè District, where whimsical architecture meets surreal fantasy, making you feel like you've stepped into a dreamlike film set. 👆

Why Is the Appian Way So Famous?

Biking the Ancient Appian Way is like riding through history. Known as the "Queen of Roads," the Via Appia Antica was one of the most important Roman roads, connecting Rome to the southern regions of Italy. Recently recognized as Italy's 60th UNESCO World Heritage Site, this ancient route offers a scenic and historical journey.

Starting around the Church of Domine Quo Vadis, you can follow the road all the way to the Info Point Appia Antica X-XI Miglio, covering more than 13 kilometers. Along the way, you'll encounter ancient ruins, impressive tombs, and beautiful countryside, offering a glimpse into Rome's past. However, be cautious if you decide to start from Porta San Sebastiano. The first section of the road is shared with cars, making it less ideal for biking or running (this is from experience 🤣). Once you pass this area, the road narrows and becomes a peaceful path, reserved mostly for residents, making it perfect for a leisurely bike ride.

From our humble experience, avoid the first section of the road that is shared by cars...and avoid coming here on a 35 degree August day

Where Is the Best Sunset in Rome?

Everywhere - the sky is just different in Rome. However, for a breathtaking sunset in Rome, Gianicolo Hill (Janiculum Hill) is an unbeatable spot. Perched just above Trastevere, this hill offers panoramic views that stretch across the city’s iconic skyline, including St. Peter’s Basilica, the Pantheon, and countless domes that shimmer in the golden hour. What sets Gianicolo apart is not just the view but also its blend of history, culture, and tranquility, making it one of Rome's hidden gems.

Adding to its charm, Gianicolo Hill is home to the tradition of the daily cannon firing at noon. This custom, started by Pope Pius IX in 1847, was intended to synchronize the ringing of church bells throughout Rome—a unique historical touch that echoes through the city each day.

A stroll down Via Piccolomini, near the hill, offers a fascinating optical illusion: as you walk toward the dome of St. Peter’s Basilica (Il Cupolone), it appears to shrink rather than grow—a quirky visual trick that adds an extra layer of magic to your visit.

The Fontana dell’Acqua Paola, a grand Baroque fountain on the hill, serves as a serene alternative to the busy Trevi Fountain. Its cascading waters and majestic design provide a peaceful spot to relax while enjoying the stunning cityscape.

As the sun sets, Gianicolo Hill transforms into a romantic vantage point, where the sky is painted with hues of pink and orange, casting a warm glow over Rome's ancient rooftops. It’s the perfect place to end your day in the Eternal City, capturing a picture-perfect moment that encapsulates the beauty of Rome.

Ponte Fabryk, ehm... Fabricius: the oldest still-standing bridge in Rome.

Can You Do Wine Tasting In Rome?

Yes, you can enjoy wine tasting in Rome, and the best place to start is in the nearby town of Frascati, famous for its historic vineyards and renowned white wines. Just a 30-minute train ride from Roma Termini, Frascati offers an authentic Italian wine experience with scenic views and charming wineries that welcome visitors for tastings and tours.

If you prefer to stay in the city center, there are several wine bars and tasting rooms in Rome where you can sample local and regional wines. We love La Salumeria, where you can find incredible, cheap bottles of wine paired with amazing charcuterie boards featuring typical Roman treats like porchetta romana and spianata romana. Other great spots include Enoteca Il Goccetto and Rimessa Roscioli, both offering curated wine tastings paired with traditional Roman dishes, giving you a taste of Italy’s wine culture without leaving the city.

The incredible charcuterie boards of La Salumeria

Why Is the Basilica of San Clemente Important?

San Clemente is not just a basilica; it’s an archaeological treasure that takes you on a journey through Rome’s layered history. Beneath the 12th-century basilica lies a 4th-century church, and below that, a 1st-century Roman house with a temple dedicated to the god Mithras. Mithraism was a secretive religion with rituals that intriguingly mirror early Christian practices, reflecting the complex religious evolution of Rome. Exploring these underground levels—similar to the Mithraic sancturary discovered in 1936 near the Circus Maximus— offers a glimpse into the clash and blending of Pagan and Christian traditions—a must-see for history enthusiasts.

Which Catacomb in Rome Is Best?

Visiting the catacombs in Rome is like stepping back into the early days of Christianity. These underground burial sites hold immense historical and spiritual significance, serving as a testament to the faith and resilience of early Christians who sought refuge and a place to bury their dead in peace. The catacombs are not just eerie tunnels; they are a crucial part of Rome's history, providing insights into ancient burial practices, early Christian art, and the evolution of the Christian faith.

Among the many catacombs in Rome, San Callisto and Domitilla are often considered the best to visit. The Catacombs of San Callisto, the largest and most famous, feature intricate frescoes and crypts of early popes. The Catacombs of Domitilla offer a quieter experience with a beautiful underground basilica.

Other notable catacombs include San Sebastiano, known for ancient Christian graffiti, Priscilla, famous for the earliest depiction of the Virgin Mary, and Santa Agnese, which honors an early Christian martyr. Most of these sites provide guided tours in multiple languages, making them accessible and enriching for all visitors.

Where Is the Best Night Out in Rome?

Pigneto, once a humble corner of Rome, has transformed into a vibrant and inclusive hotspot full of life and culture. Centered around Via del Pigneto, this dynamic area offers a safe and exciting playground for both locals and visitors -- and is a hotspot for LGBTQ+ life. Begin your evening with an aperitivo at Cargo, known for its delicious taglieri, or Buseto, where Venetian spritzes have found a new home. Pigneto’s diverse culinary scene includes international flavors like Greek cuisine alongside local specialties. The neighborhood’s inclusivity shines through its welcoming LGBTQ+ spots, such as Magnoebevo and Malo Glitter Bar, preferred over the tourist-heavy gay scene near the Colosseum. With lively street festivals and artisanal markets, Pigneto promises an unforgettable night out.

For other vibrant options, Trastevere offers picturesque river views, Testaccio is ideal for culinary adventures with its top-notch restaurants and market, and Garbatella provides a relaxed, local atmosphere with its unique architecture. Each area adds its own flavor to Rome’s nightlife, ensuring a perfect evening experience.

We decided to have an aperitivo in Pigneto this time, another place in Rome where you will witness mostly Italians enjoying a drink and bite to eat.

Ready to rock the party after pre-drinks at Pigneto

Where Is the Fascist Architecture in Rome?

Rome’s fascist architecture, a bold and controversial legacy of Mussolini’s regime, is prominently showcased in several key locations. The most significant example is the Colosseo Quadrato, or Square Colosseum, an iconic structure in the EUR district. Designed by Marcello Piacentini, this building epitomizes the Rationalist style with its monumental and geometric forms. It houses the Palazzo della Civiltà Italiana, a testament to Mussolini’s vision of a modern, imperial Rome, and is currently leased to the high fashion brand Fendi until 2028—check their site for exhibitions organized here.

Other notable fascist-era landmarks include the Foro Italico (formerly Foro Mussolini), known for its grand sports complex and imposing architecture, and Palazzo della Sapienza, remodeled during the fascist era to align with neoclassical ideals. Each of these sites reflects the regime’s attempt to merge modernist and classical elements to project power and control, leaving a lasting, albeit still controversial, imprint on Rome’s urban landscape.

Did you know that even Termini Station is part of this architectural legacy? Here, you can discover the full extent of Mussolini's influence, starting from Termini Station.

Experience the grandeur of ancient Rome at the Bulgari Hotel, where fascist-era architecture meets modern luxury. This stunning hotel, inspired by the empire, offers exquisite suites, a lavish spa, and impeccable service, making you feel like an emperor at every turn.

Dark Rome Tour: Is the Capuchin Crypt worth visiting?

Absolutely—this eerie and one-of-a-kind site is a must-see for those intrigued by the macabre side of Rome. Located beneath the Church of Santa Maria della Concezione, the crypt is famously adorned with the bones of over 4,000 Capuchin friars. Far from being just a shock factor, the bone arrangements serve as a powerful reminder of the fleeting nature of life.

The crypt’s history dates back to the 17th century when Capuchin friars began using the bones of their deceased brothers to create elaborate decorations, including chandeliers, arches, and entire rooms covered in skeletal remains. Each of the six small chapels within the crypt is filled with bones arranged in symbolic patterns, offering a thought-provoking and unforgettable experience. While it might seem grim, the Capuchin Crypt provides a unique reflection on mortality and the spiritual life of the Capuchin order.

In Love with the Morbid? 🖤💀 Beneath the famous Bocca della Verità, known for its legend of biting the hands of liars, lies more than meets the eye. Located near the ancient Circus Maximus, this area is filled with hidden treasures. The nearby Basilica of Santa Maria in Cosmedin houses the relics of St. Valentine, including his flower-adorned skull, making it an unexpected pilgrimage site for lovers. This area also features ancient Roman structures and hidden sanctuaries, blending romantic lore with historic exploration—perfect for a uniquely meaningful visit.

Where Is the Best Art Gallery in Rome? The Top of Renaissance Art in Rome

If you're looking to experience stunning frescoes in Rome without the crowds of the Vatican Museums or Galleria Borghese (Borghese Gallery), Palazzo Farnese is an excellent choice. This magnificent Renaissance palace, now the French Embassy in Rome, is home to some of the finest works by Annibale Carracci, one of the most celebrated painters of his time.

Palazzo Farnese was designed by the illustrious architects Antonio da Sangallo the Younger and Michelangelo, making it a masterpiece of Renaissance architecture. The palace's interiors are just as impressive, particularly the Carracci Gallery, where you'll find an exquisite series of frescoes depicting the loves of the gods—a beautiful alternative to Michelangelo's work in the Sistine Chapel.

The guided tour of Palazzo Farnese, included with your ticket, offers a rare glimpse into the opulent rooms and halls of the palace, as well as its lesser-known dungeon. Since the building serves as the French Embassy, visits are limited, so it's advisable to book in advance to ensure your spot.

As a bonus for art lovers, consider a visit to the Galleria Doria Pamphilj or Palazzo Barberini. These private collections offer serene environments to appreciate masterpieces by artists like Caravaggio, Velázquez, Bernini, and others, providing intimate and enriching experiences for those who wish to explore Rome's artistic treasures beyond the usual tourist spots.

What Are the Main Basilicas in Rome?

Do you know there are four major basilicas in Rome, each considered a cornerstone of the Catholic Church and also key sites for the upcoming Jubilee 2025? These four—St. Peter’s Basilica, St. John Lateran, St. Mary Major, and St. Paul Outside the Walls—were designated as major due to their historical and ecclesiastical significance. They represent the highest level of honor and are central to the spiritual and architectural heritage of the city. Begin your journey at St. Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City to marvel at Michelangelo’s dome and explore the Vatican Necropolis. Then, visit St. John Lateran, the oldest and highest-ranking basilica, and enjoy the tranquil Lateran Cloister. Continue to St. Mary Major, known for its exquisite mosaics and the peaceful Crypt of the Nativity. Finally, explore St. Paul Outside the Walls, with its impressive mosaic and nearby Protestant Cemetery and the Pyramid of Caius Cestius. These basilicas offer a rich tapestry of history, artistry, and spiritual depth, making them essential stops in Rome.

Don’t miss Michelangelo’s Moses, a masterpiece located in the Church of San Pietro in Vincoli in Rome.

Where Is the Mirror in the Chiesa DI Sant’Ignazio DI Loyola?

Located near the Pantheon, the Chiesa di Sant'Ignazio di Loyola is a hidden gem that is becoming increasingly popular among instagrammers for its jaw-dropping trompe-l'œil ceiling, or better the mirror in the center of the church where you can take photos with the opera behind you. Painted by Andrea Pozzo, this illusionistic masterpiece tricks your eye into seeing a grand dome that doesn’t exist. Make sure to visit early, as it closes at 11:30 AM, and then head to other nearby gems like the Basilica di San Clemente, creating a perfect morning itinerary of hidden art and history.

Time for a break at Summer Village Rome, a place where only the locals seem to know...for now.

For more Rome things:

• The Gay Guide to Rome