If you are about to embark on your first visit to Rome, it is likely that you will be going to sites such as the Colosseum, Pantheon, the Vatican, Trevi Fountain and Spanish Steps.

Of course, visiting these iconic landmarks is a must, but tours, museums, and big crowds do get a little tiring – especially if you are visiting during the heat of peak tourist season (June-August).

So, this year we decided to think ‘outside the box’ and book some activities that may not be on your typical Roman holiday list.

Here is a breakdown of our favourite experiences from 2023:

Cooking Class with Nonna

Cost: $120 per person (includes train tickets)

Time: 6 hours

Location: Near Palombara Sabina (40 minutes outside of Rome)

Group Size: 30 people

Rating: 9.5/10

Pro Tip: Be prepared to stand up for at least 2-3 hours

This has to be by far one of my favourite activities during this trip! It was a lovely birthday gift from my friend and travel companion Sarah – who booked the experience on Airbnb.

This was a 6-hour activity, which actually required us to take a 40-minute train to the countryside, where we were picked up by our guides and driven to the town of Palombara Sabina.

We got to walk around the town, and received a little history lesson about the layout of the streets and the past inhabitants of this place, which was very interesting.

We then hopped back into the cars and were driven to a gorgeous Italian villa on top a hill, where Nonna was waiting for us with Prosecco and bruschetta.

Nonna taught us how to make two different types of pasta and a ricotta and spinach gnocci. We started by rolling out the dough and creating authentic shapes under her watchful gaze.

The afternoon was concluded with a sit down meal where we got to taste our own creations, coupled with homemade, free-flowing wine and stunning views of the rolling Italian hills.

Around 6pm, we were driven back to the train station, tipsy and full of pasta. This activity was definitely one that I would recommend to EVERYONE (watch this Tik Tok for more information).

Ghost Tour of Rome

Cost: $24

Time: 8.30pm – 10.30pm

Location: Campo D’Fiori

Group Size: 6 people (can vary)

Rating: 10/10

TIP: Try to have a more relaxed day so you are not too tired for the night-time tour.

This tour was budget friendly and by far exceeded any expectations I might have had… We started the tour in Campo D’Fiori, where the wonderful guide Delilah swept us away with real tales of Rome’s dark history.

We heard stories of witch hunts, serial killers, executioners and partying popes who smuggled ladies of the night through secret tunnels.

The two-and-a-half-hour tour was such a great way to see more of Rome, get to know its rich history and see the landmarks on which these events actually took place.

Long story short – this tour is a must!

Visit the Gallerias

Galleria Borghese: A stunning gallery which houses some of the world’s most famous paintings and sculptures, including works by artists like Raphael and Bernini. You will also get a chance to walk around the stunning gardens, which offers a reprieve from the sweltering streets.

Galleria e Palazzo Colonna: This incredible building was constructed for over 5 centuries, and if you are a fan of baroque art and architecture, it is definitely worth a visit!

Galleria Doria Pamphilj: The Gallery has a jaw dropping private collection of floor to cieling art by famous Italian artists like Raffaello, Tiziano, and Caravaggio.

Explore Cafes, Bars and Restaraunts

Best Carbonara: La Carbonara (Monti)

When I say this is the best Carbonara I have ever tasted... I am not exaggerating!
Great place to try the traditional Roman dish called 'Fiori di Zucca' which is essentially a deep fried zucchini flower stuffed with mozarella...it is to die for!

Lemon Sorbet and Slushies: Limon'è

Another excellent refreshment to endure the summer heat. They offer tastings of limoncello shots at the door, so you are likely to walk out a little tipsy…

Best croissants/cornetto: Gourmet cafe Bistro

This little gem is located right next to the trevi fountain and there is ALWAYS a massive line outside, but the croissants here are to die for… special tip, try the pistachio croissant!

Pastries and breakfast: Roscioli Caffè Pasticceria

This place offers some delicious pastries which you can have standing up at the counter or sitting down at the tables (little tip: they charge you more if you sit down). The coffee here was pretty good, so I would definitely recommend to check it out.

Woodfired Pizza: Nuovo Mondo

Gelato: Picchio Gelateria Naturale

This one came highly recommended by one of our guides... perfect to beat the summer heat.

Deep Fried Pizza: Ce Stamo A Pensà

If you are feeling like a classic Southern Italian meal - this is the place to go!

Affordable bar: Santa Maria Bistro

Rooftop Bar: Oro Bistro