Rome is famous for the Colosseum, the Vatican, and ancient ruins around every corner. But beyond those postcard sights, the city hides another side, one filled with unique neighborhoods, secret viewpoints, underground mysteries, and food experiences that feel truly local.
If you’re looking for unique things to do in Rome, you’re in the right place. The Eternal City has layers of history and culture that most travelers miss when they stick only to the big landmarks.
This guide gives you Rome's unusual attractions, hidden corners, and creative ways to experience the city. These activities, which range from underground catacombs to bike rides through ancient streets, uncover some of Rome's most exciting hidden gems.
1. Drink up on this tipsy tour in Rome 🍸
This tipsy tour in Rome is best experienced with a group of friends!
You can start your list of unusual things to do in Rome by joining this tipsy tour! It’s definitely a fun and unique way to break the ice while in a city far away from home. On this tour, you get to experience Rome’s nightlife through bars, drinks, and great company.
You’ll start your tipsy tour with a glass of Italian wine at Piazza della Madonna dei MontiNext, you’ll head to a local bar, where you’ll try a classic Italian vermouth, Carpano Classico. After that, the tour will take you to Via dei Fori Imperiali for an ice-cold limoncello paired with stunning views of ancient Rome.
These are just some of Rome’s traditional drinks that you’ll get to taste on the tour. If you’re looking for something familiar but still local, cocktails such as the Aperol Spritz (Aperol, prosecco, and soda water), Negroni (gin, sweet vermouth, and Campari), and Garibaldi (Campari and orange juice) are also must-haves when in Rome.
Klook Tip: If you don’t want to drink alcohol or can’t, but still want to be part of the tour, non-alcoholic drinks are available upon request.
📍 Address: Piazza della Madonna dei Monti, 00184 Rome, Italy
🚇 How to go: Metro Line B to Cavour Station, then walk about 5 minutes
⏰ Best time to go: Evening (7:00 PM onward) for the best nightlife vibe
2. Explore the crypts and catacombs of Rome 🦴
There will be a local guide who’ll let you in on stories from Rome’s past
Another activity you can add to your list of unusual things to do in Rome is visiting and learning about its crypts and catacombs. Your tour begins at the Catacombe dei Cappuccini di Palermo, where the walls display the remains of around 4,000 monks.
It continues to the Basilica of San Clemente and the Museo e Cripta dei Cappuccini, where you’ll see ancient churches, artworks, and a chapel decorated with Capuchin friars’ bones. For a hassle-free trip, we recommend joining the Crypts and Catacombs tour!
While the tour gives off eerie and gloomy vibes, it’s still worth a go if you want to learn more about this era in Rome’s history, art, and culture.
📍Address: Museo e Cripta dei Cappuccini, Via Vittorio Veneto 27, 00187 Rome, Italy
🚇 How to go: Metro Line A to Barberini Station, then walk about 5 minutes
⏰ Best time to go: Morning tours (9:00–11:00 AM) for fewer visitors
3. Walk through the ruins and mosaics of the Archaeological Park of Ostia Antica ✨
The Archaeological Park of Ostia Antica is just as worth visiting as Pompeii and Herculaneum
Get a feel of ancient Roman life as you explore the well-preserved ruins of the Archaeological Park of Ostia Antica. This park is one of Italy’s most iconic ancient sites, where you can enjoy a peaceful walk along its preserved streets, admire beautiful mosaics, and visit public baths, temples, and even marketplaces.
Some must-see spots here include the Boacciana Tower, the banks of the river Tiber, the seaside villas of Procoio, St. Herculanus' Church, the Necropolis and Basilica in Pianabella, and the Laurentina Necropolis.
Klook Tip: This tour will include a lot of walking, so it’s best to wear comfortable shoes.
📍Address: Viale dei Romagnoli 717, 00119 Rome, Italy
🚇 How to go: Take the Roma–Lido train from Porta San Paolo Station to Ostia Antica Station, then walk about 5 minutes
⏰ Best time to go: Early morning or late afternoon for cooler weather
4. Get spooky on a ghost and mystery night walking tour 👻
Uncover Rome’s beauty at night on this ghost and mystery walking tour
This ghost and mystery night walking tour in Rome has to be on your list of unusual things to do in Rome. The tour will take you to many sights at night, including Corso Vittorio Emanuele II, 252, Campo de' Fiori, Piazza Farnese, and Castel Sant'Angelo. You’ll also see the city in all its wonderful night lights!
One highlight of the tour is a visit to the haunted bridge, said to be related to the legend of the ghostly female pope. Your local guide will let you in on all the stories and some gripping tales about Rome.
📍 Address: Campo de' Fiori, 00186 Rome, Italy (common meeting point)
🚇 How to go: Bus or tram to Largo di Torre Argentina, then walk about 5 minutes
⏰ Best time to go: Night tours (8:30 PM onward) for the full spooky atmosphere
5. Enjoy breathtaking views of Rome at Giardino degli Aranci 🍊
There are two churches in the garden: St. Sabina, and the Church of Saints Boniface of Tarsus and Alexius (Photo Credit: Gabriella Clare Marino on Unsplash)
If you want to escape the lively streets of the city, visit Giardino degli Aranci, also known as the Orange Gardens. There are so many things to do here, but to get to the garden, you’ll first need to climb up Aventine Hill, one of the seven hills of Rome.
Once there, you can relax in panoramic views of some landmarks like St. Peter's Basilica and the Tiber River, take a serene stroll among the orange trees, and drop by the famous keyhole of the Knights of Malta, where you’ll see a perfectly framed view of St. Peter’s Dome.
For a different kind of experience, consider the Tiber Sunset Cruise Experience with Aperitif in Rome. As the sun sets, cruise along the Tiber River while sipping an Italian aperitif and admiring Rome’s historic bridges and riverside landmarks from the water. It’s a calm and scenic way to end the day after exploring the city.
6. Bike through ancient streets and scenic views 🚴
Different people with bikes posing in front of The Colosseum
One of the most exciting Rome unique things to do is exploring the city on two wheels. Instead of walking long distances, hop on a bike and glide past ancient ruins, hidden streets, and charming neighborhoods.
You’ll ride past iconic landmarks but also discover quiet backstreets and local corners that most visitors never see. Many bike tours also include scenic viewpoints overlooking the city. It’s the perfect mix of sightseeing and adventure.
For a fun and active experience, try the Highlights of Rome Bike Tour. The e-bike option makes it easy to cruise through hills while enjoying incredible views.
📍 Address: Tour departure points vary around central Rome
🚇 How to go: Most tours begin near Piazza Venezia or the Colosseum
⏰ Best time to go: Early morning or sunset rides for cooler weather
7. Take a surprising day trip to Amalfi and Pompeii 🌋
A view of Pompeii and Amalfi Coast
Sometimes the most unique things to do in Rome, Italy, happen outside the city. A day trip to Pompeii and the Amalfi Coast combines history, scenery, and adventure.
Pompeii is one of the world’s most fascinating archaeological sites. The ancient city was preserved under volcanic ash after Mount Vesuvius erupted in 79 AD. After exploring the ruins, head on to the Amalfi Coast for stunning sea views and colorful cliffside towns. It’s a thrilling change of scenery from Rome’s busy streets.
📍 Address: Pompeii Archaeological Park, Pompeii
🚇 How to go: Guided tours depart from Rome city center
⏰ Best time to go: Spring or fall for comfortable weather
FAQs about unique things to do in Rome
What are some unusual things to do in Rome?
There are many unusual things to do in Rome beyond the famous landmarks. You can explore underground catacombs, bike through historic neighborhoods, or take a pasta-making class with a local chef. These experiences reveal parts of the city many travelers overlook. They’re also a fun way to connect with Roman culture and history in a more personal way.
What should you not miss in Rome, Italy?
Rome’s must-see attractions include the Colosseum, Vatican City, and the Roman Forum. However, visitors should also make time for smaller experiences like wandering Trastevere or visiting the Arch of Constantine. Mixing famous sights with Rome unusual attractions gives you a richer travel experience. It helps you see both the iconic and the hidden sides of the city.
What are some non-touristy things to do in Rome?
Some of the best non-touristy activities involve exploring local neighborhoods and food spots. Visiting quiet piazzas, joining a cooking class, or taking a street food tour in Trastevere offers a more authentic perspective. These experiences highlight everyday Roman life and showcase some of the most interesting hidden gems in Rome.
What is the best hidden attraction in Rome?
One of the most fascinating hidden attractions is Rome’s ancient catacombs. These underground burial tunnels stretch for miles beneath the city and date back nearly two thousand years. Visiting them provides a deeper understanding of early Christian history in Rome. It’s easily one of the most memorable unique things to do in Rome.
What are the top 4 attractions in Rome?
The top four attractions in Rome are the Colosseum, the Vatican Museums, St. Peter’s Basilica, and the Roman Forum. These landmarks showcase the city’s incredible history and architecture. However, travelers who add unique things to do in Rome—like exploring Trastevere or joining a bike tour—often enjoy a more balanced itinerary.
Something wrong with this content, please help to delete this content
What to do in Rome recommended by locals?
Locals recommend visiting the following places: Trastevere, Mercato Campo de' Fiori, the Borghese Gallery and Gardens, lesser-known archaeological sites, and even some famous spots like the Colosseum and Trevi Fountain.
What is Klook?
Klook is a leading pan-regional experiences platform in Asia Pacific, purpose built to digitalize experiences and make them accessible to every traveler.
Our mission is to build the digital infrastructure for the global experience economy — empowering merchants to share their passions and travelers to discover the heartbeat of each destination. We operate a mobile-first, curated platform featuring diverse experiences across global destinations.
✨ Follow us for more deals and inspiration for your upcoming travels
