Things To Do On Your Own

Rome is a beautiful city with a rich history and plenty of things to explore on your own. Whether you enjoy history, art, food, or simply wandering through charming streets, Rome has something for everyone. Here are some solo activities you can enjoy in Rome:

Bucket List 

Tours, Museums, and Activities

1. Visit the Colosseum: Explore this iconic ancient amphitheater and immerse yourself in the history of gladiatorial combat and Roman entertainment.

2. Roman Forum: Wander through the ancient ruins of the Roman Forum, once the center of political, religious, and commercial life in ancient Rome.

3. Pantheon: Marvel at the stunning architecture of the Pantheon, one of the best-preserved ancient Roman buildings, and experience its impressive dome.

4. Vatican City: Explore the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel, home to some of the world's most renowned art masterpieces.

5. St. Peter's Basilica: Visit the largest Christian church in the world and climb to the top of the dome for a breathtaking view of Rome.

6. Trevi Fountain: Throw a coin over your shoulder into the Trevi Fountain to ensure your return to Rome and make a wish.

7. Piazza Navona: Enjoy the lively atmosphere of this beautiful square, surrounded by stunning fountains and charming cafes.

8. Spanish Steps: Climb the Spanish Steps and enjoy the view from the top while watching the bustling city below.

9. Villa Borghese Gardens: Take a relaxing stroll or rent a bike in these beautiful gardens, a perfect escape from the city's hustle and bustle.

10. Explore Trastevere: Wander through the narrow cobbled streets of this bohemian neighborhood, filled with lively bars, restaurants, and street art.

11. Campo de' Fiori Market: Experience the vibrant atmosphere of this daily market and try some fresh Italian produce.

12. Mouth-watering Food Tour: Treat yourself to some authentic Italian cuisine, including pasta, pizza, gelato, and delicious espresso.

13. Appian Way: Rent a bike and cycle along the ancient Appian Way, lined with historical landmarks and picturesque countryside.

14. Capitoline Hill: Visit the Capitoline Museums and enjoy a fantastic view of the Roman Forum and the cityscape.

15. Catacombs of Rome: Explore the eerie underground burial sites and catacombs, providing a unique perspective on Roman history.

16. Galleria Borghese: Admire the art collection housed in this elegant villa, featuring works by renowned artists like Bernini and Caravaggio.

17. Street Art in Ostiense: Discover the vibrant street art scene in the Ostiense neighborhood, featuring colorful murals and graffiti.

Shopping

Rome offers a fantastic shopping experience with a mix of high-end designer boutiques, trendy fashion stores, artisanal shops, and local markets. Here are some of the best shopping areas and streets in Rome:

1. Via del Corso: This is one of Rome's main shopping streets, stretching from Piazza Venezia to Piazza del Popolo. You'll find a mix of international brands, Italian fashion houses, and department stores along this bustling street.

2. Via Condotti: Known for its luxury shopping, Via Condotti is home to high-end designer stores such as Gucci, Prada, Bulgari, and more. It's located near the Spanish Steps and is a popular destination for luxury shoppers.

3. Via del Babuino: Connected to Via Condotti, Via del Babuino features more luxury boutiques and art galleries, making it another great spot for high-end shopping.

4. Via Cola di Rienzo: This street offers a mix of well-known chain stores, smaller boutiques, and shoe shops, making it a favorite among locals and tourists alike.

5. Via del Governo Vecchio: Located in the heart of the historic center, this charming street is known for its vintage shops, trendy boutiques, and unique finds.

6. Trastevere: This bohemian neighborhood is perfect for shopping for artsy and one-of-a-kind pieces, including handmade jewelry, artisanal crafts, and vintage clothing.

7. Campo de' Fiori Market: Open during the day, this lively market offers a wide range of fresh produce, flowers, and local products, making it an excellent place to buy souvenirs and gifts.

8. Porta Portese Market: Taking place every Sunday morning, this flea market is one of the largest in Rome, offering a treasure trove of antiques, vintage items, clothing, and more.

9. Galleria Alberto Sordi: This beautiful shopping arcade near the Pantheon houses various shops, including fashion, beauty, and electronics stores.

10. Eataly: For food lovers, Eataly in Rome is a gourmet marketplace where you can find a wide variety of Italian food products, including pasta, cheeses, olive oil, and more.

11. Outlet Malls: If you're looking for deals on designer goods, consider visiting outlet malls like Castel Romano Designer Outlet or Valmontone Outlet, located on the outskirts of Rome.

Remember that many shops in Rome observe the traditional afternoon break (siesta) and may close for a few hours during the day. Additionally, always check the operating hours of the stores you plan to visit, as they may vary. Happy shopping!

Festivals 

Rome hosts a variety of festivals and events throughout the year. Here are some notable festivals that take place during fall, spring, and summer in the Eternal City:

Fall Festivals (Autumn):

1. International Literature Festival (October): This festival brings together writers, authors, and literary enthusiasts from around the world for readings, discussions, and book presentations.

2. Rome Film Fest (October): An annual film festival showcasing a diverse selection of international and Italian films, often attended by renowned actors and filmmakers.

3. Chestnut Festival (October): Held in various locations near Rome, this festival celebrates the autumn season with roasted chestnuts, local food, and traditional music.

4. All Saints' Day (Ognissanti) (November 1): It's a public holiday in Italy, and many Romans visit cemeteries to pay their respects to the departed.

Spring Festivals:

1. Rome Marathon (April): The Rome Marathon attracts thousands of runners from around the world who race through the historic streets of the city, passing by iconic landmarks.

2. Holy Week and Easter Celebrations (April): Experience the solemn and religious atmosphere during Holy Week, with processions, masses, and the Pope's Easter Sunday address at St. Peter's Square.

3. Rome Birthday Celebrations (April 21): Rome celebrates its birthday with various events and reenactments of ancient Roman ceremonies.

4. Labor Day (Festa dei Lavoratori) (May 1): Labor Day is a public holiday celebrated with parades and demonstrations in some areas of the city.

Summer Festivals:

1. Estate Romana (Roman Summer) (June to September): An annual summer festival featuring a wide array of cultural events, including concerts, theater performances, art exhibitions, and outdoor cinema.

2. Festa della Repubblica (June 2): Italy's National Day is celebrated with military parades, historical reenactments, and cultural events in Rome.

3. Lungo il Tevere (June to September): A summer festival along the Tiber River with food stalls, live music, and entertainment.

4. Gay Village (June to September): A LGBTQ+ festival in Rome with concerts, parties, and cultural events.

5. Rock in Roma (June to August): One of Italy's biggest music festivals featuring top international and Italian rock and pop artists.

Please note that festival dates and events may vary from year-to-year, so it's best to check the official websites and local sources for up-to-date information when planning your visit. Enjoy the vibrant and festive atmosphere of Rome during these seasons!

Eating

Eating cheap in Rome doesn't mean sacrificing taste or quality. There are plenty of budget-friendly options that allow you to enjoy delicious Italian cuisine without breaking the bank. Here are some tips for eating cheap in Rome:

1. Trattorias and Pizzerias: Look for small, family-run trattorias and pizzerias away from major tourist areas. These places often offer traditional, affordable dishes that locals love.

2. Lunch Specials: Many restaurants and eateries in Rome offer affordable fixed-price lunch menus, known as "menu del giorno" or "menu turistico." These menus often include a starter, main course, side dish, and sometimes dessert at a lower price compared to the evening menu.

3. Street Food: Opt for street food options like pizza al taglio (pizza by the slice), supplì, and panini. These are quick and cheap options that you can find at kiosks and small shops throughout the city.

4. Markets and Grocery Stores: Visit local markets like Campo de' Fiori or supermarkets to buy fresh fruits, vegetables, cheeses, bread, and other ingredients for a DIY picnic or simple meal.

5. Aperitivo: Take advantage of the aperitivo culture in the early evening, where you can enjoy a drink and access to a buffet of snacks and appetizers for the price of a drink.

6. Pasta Takeaways: Look for pasta takeaway spots that offer affordable pasta dishes to-go. You can find places serving pasta al pomodoro (pasta with tomato sauce), pasta aglio e olio (pasta with garlic and oil), and more.

7. Pizzeria by the Slice: Grab a slice of pizza from a "pizza al taglio" place, where you pay by the slice, making it an inexpensive and quick meal option.

8. Local Bakeries: Visit bakeries for fresh, tasty sandwiches or panini filled with cold cuts, cheese, and vegetables at reasonable prices.

9. Avoid Restaurants with "Coperto": Some restaurants charge a "coperto" fee, which is a cover charge for bread and table service. To save money, avoid places with this additional fee.

10. Eat Like a Local: Follow the locals' lead; if a place is crowded with Italians, chances are it offers good food at reasonable prices.

Remember to explore the neighborhoods away from major tourist spots, as the prices tend to be more affordable there. Additionally, ask for tap water ("acqua del rubinetto") instead of bottled water to save on drink expenses. By being mindful of your choices and seeking out local favorites, you can enjoy a budget-friendly culinary experience while in Rome. Buon appetite!

Vegetarian or Vegan

Rome has seen a significant increase in vegetarian and vegan options over the years, making it easier for those with dietary preferences to enjoy delicious and diverse meals. Here are some places and dishes to explore for vegetarian and vegan options in Rome:

1. Vegan Gelato: Look for gelaterias offering vegan gelato made from plant-based ingredients like almond milk, soy milk, or fruit sorbets. You'll find various flavors, so indulge in this sweet treat guilt-free.

2. Pizza Marinara: This classic Neapolitan pizza is vegan-friendly, topped with tomato sauce, garlic, oregano, and sometimes basil. Just make sure the dough doesn't contain animal products.

3. Pasta with Tomato Sauce: Many traditional Italian pasta dishes are already vegetarian-friendly. Opt for pasta with tomato-based sauces like Pomodoro or Arrabbiata, which typically don't contain meat.

4. Eggplant Parmigiana: A delightful vegetarian dish made of layers of eggplant, tomato sauce, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese, often baked to perfection.

5. Cacio e Pepe: A simple yet flavorful pasta dish made with Pecorino Romano cheese and black pepper, usually without any meat.

6. Pasta alla Norma: A Sicilian pasta dish featuring eggplant, tomato sauce, ricotta salata, and basil, which can be adapted for vegan diets by omitting the cheese.

7. Vegan Restaurants and Cafés: Rome has a growing number of exclusively vegan restaurants and cafés offering a wide range of plant-based dishes, including burgers, wraps, salads, and veganized Italian classics.

8. Street Food: Seek out vegan-friendly street food like supplì (rice balls), pizza al taglio (pizza by the slice), and porchetta sandwiches (made with roasted seasoned vegetables) from various food trucks and stalls.

9. Farmers' Markets: Visit local farmers' markets to find fresh produce and ingredients for preparing your own vegetarian and vegan meals.

10. Ethnic Restaurants: Rome also offers a variety of ethnic restaurants with vegetarian and vegan options, such as Indian, Lebanese, Ethiopian, and Japanese.

Some areas in Rome with a higher concentration of vegetarian and vegan restaurants include the neighborhoods of Trastevere, Testaccio, and Monti. Additionally, don't hesitate to communicate your dietary preferences with the waitstaff at restaurants; they are usually accommodating and can provide suitable options.

As the popularity of vegetarian and vegan diets continues to grow, you'll likely find an expanding array of choices to satisfy your culinary preferences while exploring the wonderful city of Rome. Buon appetito!

Weekend Excursions

Thanks to Italy's excellent network of high-speed trains, almost any location in Italy can be a weekend trip. Even better if you can connect with our local site director and/or fellow students for ideas. 

• Florence (CIS Abroad location) -  is a beautiful city in northern Italy known for its vibrant art scene, hailing from its distinction as the birthplace of the Renaissance. It's a place for any student to soak in the good food, fascinating history, and relaxed Italian lifestyle. 

• The Amalfi Coast (specifically Sorrento, a CIS Abroad location) - Soak in the sun in the cradle of the Amalfi Coast, best known for its lemon groves and its beautiful beaches. While you're down there, be sure to visit Pompeii, or its lesser known sibling Herculaneum.

• Milan - a must see for fashion aficionados, containing the world headquarters of many of Italy's most famous brands. However, Milan is also one of Italy's largest cities, with notable contributions to the fields of art, design, education, and research. 

• Venice - A city so famous it hardly needs introduction, Venice is an excellent candidate for a weekend trip to the land of water.