Rome is one of those places that feels like a living history book, and I always find myself looking for ways to experience it beyond the usual crowds. This time, I was determined to see some of its most iconic spots but also discover a few less-obvious treasures. Planning ahead is key here, especially to make the most of your time each day in 2026. To help you navigate, I’ve put together a guide to some of the places that really stood out to me.
Experience Ancient Might
The Colosseum is, of course, a must-see when you’re in Rome. It’s astonishing to stand where gladiators once fought and to think about the sheer scale of the Roman Empire’s engineering. I remember reading about how it was built to inspire awe, and it certainly does. Even with so many visitors, the feeling of history is powerful.
Inside the Colosseum
When you visit the Colosseum, you get entry to the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill too. It’s a lot to take in, so I recommend getting a digital audio guide to really bring the ruins to life. It helps you appreciate the stories behind the stones.
Best views of the Colosseum
If you’re looking for a special treat, staying at offers incredible views directly overlooking the Colosseum. Imagine having your morning coffee with that panorama!
Discover Artistic Treasures
Rome has an incredible number of art collections, but the Borghese Gallery offers a more intimate experience. It’s housed within the beautiful Villa Borghese park, and the collection is incredibly rich, focusing on works by masters like Bernini and Caravaggio. It’s a perfect spot for a quieter, more focused art appreciation.
Intimate Gallery Setting
The gallery is designed to be explored over a couple of hours, with timed entry to keep it from feeling too crowded. It feels really special to be in a space with such significant art without being rushed.
What to see at Borghese Gallery
You’ll find stunning sculptures and paintings here, including incredible works by Bernini and Caravaggio. Even the mosaic panels from the 4th century are captivating, showing scenes of hunts and gladiator fights.
A Family’s Art Appreciation
I took Lily to the Borghese Gallery, and she was surprisingly fascinated by the sculptures. We spent a good amount of time looking at Bernini’s Apollo and Daphne; she kept asking if Daphne really turned into a tree! It was a lovely moment appreciating art together.
Explore a Private Palace
Palazzo Colonna is a real find, especially for those who appreciate history and art in a more personal setting. It’s still the home of one of Rome’s oldest families and houses an impressive private art collection. It feels like stepping back in time.
The Colonna Gallery
The highlight here is the Colonna Gallery, with its breathtaking ceiling frescoes by Gherardi and Chiari, and an amazing collection of Italian art. You can see works by Ghirlandaio and Bronzino among others. The sheer scale and beauty of the frescoes are unforgettable.
When is Palazzo Colonna open
This palace is typically open to the public on Saturday mornings, so planning your visit around that is essential. It’s a unique opportunity to see a part of Roman history that remains very much alive.
We also explored the gardens, which are a peaceful escape from the city. Ethan, who’s only four, loved running around the paths, and it was a nice way for us to unwind.
A Unique Spiritual Site
For something truly different, the Capuchin Crypt beneath the church of Santa Maria della Concezione dei Cappuccini is a striking and thought-provoking place. It’s an ossuary decorated with the skeletal remains of around 3,700 Capuchin monks.
Meaning in Mortality
The arrangements of bones are intricate and artistic, serving as a powerful reminder of the transience of life. The inscriptions there, like “What you are now we used to be; what we are now you will be,” really encourage reflection.
Capuchin Crypt guided tour
Booking a guided tour here is highly recommended, as it provides a lot of context and insight into the history and philosophy behind this unique place. It’s definitely not for the faint-hearted, but it’s a profound experience.
The Vatican’s Vast Collections
No visit to Rome feels complete without exploring the Vatican Museums. The sheer scale of the collection is overwhelming, spanning thousands of years of art and artifacts from all over the world. It’s a journey through global history housed within the Vatican City.
Highlights of the Vatican Museums
Beyond the famous Sistine Chapel, you’ll discover Egyptian sarcophagi, Etruscan jewelry, Flemish tapestries, and paintings by artists like Van Gogh and Matisse. The museums are vast, with 54 galleries covering about seven kilometers of exhibition space.
Navigating the Vatican Museums
Given the immense size and popularity, booking your tickets in advance is absolutely essential. You’ll want to skip the long queues and maximize your time exploring. Many tours offer a dedicated focus on the Sistine Chapel and key galleries.
Michael was particularly interested in the classical sculptures in the Pio Clementino Museum. It was fascinating to see his historical knowledge come alive as we walked through the galleries.
Exploring Rome’s rich history and art offers endless possibilities for discovery, and planning your visits can truly enhance the experience. I hope these insights help you plan your own memorable journey through the Eternal City.