Vatican Museums
The jewel in the crown of Rome’s myriad museums, this grand complex of palaces and chapels, galleries, and gardens contains priceless masterpieces from the Egyptians to the Etruscans, the ancient Romans to the Renaissance popes. The highlights (Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel, Raphael’s The School of Athens) are well known, but hidden wonders, like the recently reopened Carriage Pavilion, surprise and delight, too. Skip the lines by reserving a timed, early-morning-entry ticket online.
More Things To Do in Rome
Bellini Travel
London-based Italy specialist Bellini Travel focuses on high-end, high-touch, insider-access trip-planning.
American Academy
Becoming a Friend of the Academy gives you access to the otherwise-closed campus’s rich, dynamic programing.
Nuovo Mercato Esquilino
This food market by the city’s main train, Termini, is a favorite for Rome’s chefs, visiting travelers, and locals.
Contemporary Art Galleries
Rome's new contemporary art showcases offer more diversity to the obvious older treasures in town.
The Colosseum
The iconic site just underwent a $33 million refurbishment
Roman Walks
Two ideal places to stroll in the city, for the shopper and site-seer.
Galleria Doria Pamphilj
This house museum holds a private collection of some of Europe’s most important paintings.
Kami Spa
This beautiful Asian day spa has become one of the city’s best beauty and wellness destinations
MAXXI
Zaha Hadid’s dynamic tour de force houses temporary exhibitions of contemporary art, architecture, and urban design.
Katie Parla Food Tour
Join top English-language food writer Katie Parla on one of her privately guided tasting tours.
Borghese Gallery
This museum houses one of the world’s most impressive collections of Baroque painting and sculpture, as well as the ancient Roman pieces that inspired them.