Relaxing Things To do in Rome

Looking for some relaxing things to do in Rome? Here are some great activities that will help you unwind and enjoy the beauty of the Eternal City.

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Picnic on Monte Mario in Rome

First up, why not take a picnic on Monte Mario? It’s just outside the city limits, but the views across Rome are exceptional. The climb to the top may not be what you had in mind for a relaxing day, but the peace and relative solitude up there, coupled with those wonderful, far-reaching views, are well worth the effort. Take some delicious Italian snacks and a bottle of wine and relax in the long grass before heading back down.

Jazz, Dinner & Sightseeing

If you’re looking for a unique and romantic experience, try Tramjazz. You’ll dine on a candlelit vintage tram, enjoying live jazz music as you weave past city sights such as Villa Borghese, the Colosseum, and Circus Maximus. It’s a dreamlike experience that you won’t forget anytime soon.

Let the Pope Bless You

For something truly special, attend the Pope’s weekly benedictions and prayers. You don’t have to be religious to enjoy listening to the murmured Latin prayers amid a hushed and reverent crowd. Tickets are free, or you can buy a combo ticket that also gets you a tour of the Basilica, which is an absolute must-see when in Rome.

Enjoy Villa Borgese, Rome’s Central Park

If you’re looking for a more low-key day, spend some time exploring Villa Borghese, Rome’s central park. The park features tranquil fountains, historic buildings and monuments, and acres of lush landscaped gardens. Visit the Borghese Gallery, rent a boat to paddle on the lake, and take in a show at the Globe Theater.

A Sunset Stroll in Rome

For a romantic and picturesque evening, take a sunset stroll around Rome. The city is at its most romantic at twilight, as the sky blazes with oranges, pinks, purples, and reds. Join a walking tour that takes in some of Rome’s most beautiful attractions, from the Spanish Steps to the ancient Pantheon.

How To Relax in Rome

How to relax in Rome? When it comes to relaxation, everyone has their own unique definition of what that looks like. For some, it could be as simple as sipping a glass of wine at a café and people-watching. Others might prefer to explore the city, popping into different piazzas for a caffeine fix and a change of scenery.

While Villa Borghese is a beautiful spot, it can get quite crowded. If you’re looking for a more peaceful setting and have an interest in plants and horticulture, the botanical gardens might be just the ticket. Check out their website at http://www.ortobotanicoitalia.it/lazio/romalasapienza/ to learn more.

And if you do find yourself at Villa Borghese, why not rent one of the charming little boats and take a leisurely paddle around the pond? You’ll get a chance to admire the picturesque fake ruins and soak in the romantic ambiance.

Cupola di San Pietro. Trust me, climbing the dome of St. Peter’s is well worth it. It’s not too crowded, and there’s even a café at the top, so you can enjoy the views while sipping on some cappuccino.
If you’re looking for something a bit more intimate, head over to Tempietto Bramante, a small chapel designed by Bernini. It’s architecturally stunning, and the terrace offers yet another breathtaking view of Rome.
Ara Pacis is another must-visit spot. It used to be an ancient Roman sacrificial altar, and you can literally walk through it. Don’t worry, it’s no longer in use, so you won’t have to dodge any bulls.
For a unique street with some serious charm, check out Clivo di Scauro. The flying buttresses that support the church are a sight to see. Plus, you can find an underground site with preserved Roman houses. How cool is that?
San Nicola in Carcere is a church that was once the site of three Roman temples. You can still see the columns on either side of the church, and if you go underneath, you can see the bottom structures of the temples. It’s like a history lesson and a church visit all rolled into one.
Foro Boario is another favorite of mine. It’s always quiet here, and the two temples are so well preserved and unique. I feel like it’s under-appreciated by most tourists. Come on, people, show this place some love!
Arco di Giano is a four-pronged triumphal arch that’s incredibly preserved and very unique. If you’re in the area checking out Foro Boario, be sure to swing by and check it out.
If you’re feeling adventurous, head over to Mitreo di San Clemente. It’s one of many ancient Roman cult sites honoring the god Mithras. Little is known about the religion today, but all of the sites seem to contain a small, underground room with an altar and a depiction of a bull being sacrificed. Definitely a unique experience.
Torre delle Milizie is a tower that looms over the Trajan’s markets and imperial fora. It’s only accessible through the Trajan’s markets, and it’s definitely worth the visit.
Mercati Traianei is a museum that’s a pretty amazing glimpse into ancient Rome. Most people just walk past it, but I highly recommend taking the time to go in and explore.
If you’re looking for a religious experience, head over to Santa Scala. Visitors are only allowed to go up the stairs on their knees. It’s a sacred Catholic site that’s meant to be the stairs taken from Jerusalem. Kneeling may not be relaxing, but it’s definitely a unique experience.
Another one of my favorite sites in Rome is the Antica Farmacia di Santa Maria della Scala. You have to email the Carmelites who run Santa Maria della Scala to request a visit, but it’s worth it. Pictures aren’t allowed, but trust me when I say that it’s a fascinating glimpse into the world of pre-modern medicine.
Castel Sant’Angelo is a site that everyone’s seen, but most people don’t bother with the tour. It’s very worth it, in my opinion, because the castle was built directly on top of Hadrian’s mausoleum. And being an ancient Roman mausoleum, it’s rare for being one of two that still exist today within the city cente

In conclusion, there are plenty of relaxing things to do in Rome, and the key is to find what works for you. Whether you prefer people-watching at a café, exploring the city’s piazzas, or discovering hidden gems like the botanical gardens, there’s something for everyone. So why not take a break from the hustle and bustle of daily life and treat yourself to some well-deserved relaxation in the Eternal City?