For the best experience, book the earliest entry slot—crowds build fast, especially in peak season. Skip the long lines and get more out of your visit by booking a guided tour (trust us, it’s worth it!). We recommend going with a small group tour—you’ll have a much better experience than being in a group of 20+ people. Want the best guide? Talk to Brianna, she’ll help you find the perfect tour and make the whole process seamless.
To truly enjoy the magic of the Trevi Fountain without the crowds, aim to get there before 8 AM—it's one of the few times you'll find it peaceful and photo-friendly. As of recently, a new queuing system starts at 9 AM for access to the lower terrace area, so arriving early helps you skip both the lines and the crowds.
While the Pantheon is generally less crowded during the day than other major sites, our favorite time to visit is at night—it's absolutely magical when lit up and far quieter. If you’d like to go inside, you can book tickets in advance or purchase them on-site. Don’t miss it—the Pantheon is the best-preserved Roman temple from the early 2nd century AD and truly a marvel of ancient engineering.
To truly immerse yourself in the history of the Roman Forum, we highly recommend booking a guided tour. For the best experience, consider a combined tour of the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill. The Roman Forum was the heart of ancient Rome, where business transactions and military parades took place. Don’t miss the Palatine Hill, home to the emperors on one of Rome’s seven founding hills—you can explore the ruins of their palaces and enjoy stunning views of the city.
St. Peter’s Basilica is free to visit, but don't forget to bring your passport—it's technically its own country! If you plan to explore the Vatican Museums, a guided tour is a must to skip the long lines and truly appreciate the incredible art and history. A tour will guide you through countless ancient artifacts, the Rooms of Maps, and of course, the Sistine Chapel—which is only accessible through the museums. Arrive early; it gets incredibly crowded, especially as the day goes on!
Piazza Navona is built on the ruins of an ancient circus—imagine horse races and grand spectacles in a large oval space! The unique shape of the circus has shaped the footprint of the piazza today, which is now home to stunning Baroque fountains, including the famous Fountain of the Four Rivers. It’s a must-see for its beauty and history!
The place where Becca & Steven got engaged (and Brianna's favorite spot in all of Rome), the Orange Garden is a hidden gem. Lined with fragrant orange trees, it offers stunning views over the entire central city. To enjoy the tranquility and incredible vistas without the crowds, get there early—it’s a 20-30 minute walk up Aventine Hill, and the peaceful mornings are absolutely worth it!
The iconic Spanish Steps sit at the heart of Rome’s most prestigious shopping district, surrounded by high-end boutiques and charming cafes. After taking in the beauty of the steps, climb to the top for a stunning view of the city, then continue on to the nearby Borghese Gardens for a peaceful stroll through one of Rome’s most beautiful green spaces. It's the perfect spot to escape the hustle and bustle while soaking in nature and art.
Need a break from the chaos of the city? Escape to the Borghese Gardens, perched atop Pincio Hill—a serene oasis in the heart of Rome. It's just a short walk from the top of the Spanish Steps—simply turn left and continue up the hill. Originally designed by Cardinal Scipione Borghese in the 17th century, the gardens are now a public space open to all. With lush greenery, peaceful ponds, and stunning sculptures, it’s the ideal place to relax and unwind. Grab a coffee or lunch at one of the charming cafes and take a leisurely stroll through this tranquil retreat.
A (very) short walk across the Tiber River, Trastevere is a vibrant neighborhood known for its charming streets, lively nightlife, and fantastic dining options. It’s the perfect spot for a leisurely lunch, a cozy dinner, or an aperitivo. This is where the locals head to unwind in the evenings, offering a true taste of Roman culture.
One of our absolute favorite activities in Rome—though slightly outside the main tourist areas—the Via Appia Antica is totally worth the effort. It’s a peaceful, unforgettable walk along the original stones of what was once the most important road in the Roman Empire. This ancient highway connected Rome to the rest of Europe and still winds past crumbling villas, ancient tombs, and—if you go far enough—the incredible remains of Rome’s aqueducts. Getting there can be a little tricky, but the trail officially begins just outside Appia Antica Caffè, where you can grab a coffee before starting your journey. Pro tip: wear good walking shoes, and bring water—it’s quiet, scenic, and one of the most unique ways to step back in time in the Eternal City.