A visit to Italy wouldn’t be complete without exploring the storied layers of the Colosseum. Guided tours of the Colosseum, Roman Forum and Palatine Hill allow you to skip the line, take in stunning vistas and delve deep into history with the expertise of a dedicated guide. The exploration doesn’t have to stop after your tour ends, however, as there are many more fantastic things to do just a stone’s throw away. Read on to discover 15 things to do near the Colosseum in Rome!
1. Explore the Picturesque Streets of Monti
Discovering Rome’s Monti neighborhood is one of the best things to do near the Colosseum. This historic district borders the iconic amphitheater, making it the perfect place to shop and dine after your tour. Besides boasting an abundance of trendy boutiques, bars and eateries, Monti is well known for its enchanting architecture. As you wander through the postcard-worthy alleyways and piazzas, you’re bound to fall deeper in love with the city!
2. See Michelangelo’s Moses Sculpture within the Basilica of San Pietro in Vincoli
Visiting the Basilica of San Pietro in Vincoli is another wonderful thing to do after your Colosseum tour in Rome. Here, you’ll find Michelangelo’s Moses sculpture adorning the funerary monument of Pope Julius II. This Renaissance masterpiece depicts the biblical figure Moses with horns protruding out of his head. From the flowing hair to the detailed veins and muscles, the work showcases the genius of Michelangelo.
Note that the Basilica of San Pietro in Vincoli is situated just an eight minute walk away from the Colosseum and is open daily from 8:00 AM to 12:30 PM and 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM. It’s also completely free to enter!
3. Ascend Capitoline Hill to Visit Piazza del Campidoglio
Michelangelo also left his mark on Piazza del Campidoglio, a magnificent square perched on top of Capitoline Hill. During the 16th century, he completely redesigned the piazza and the surrounding buildings. Among his new additions were the geometric pavement, the central placement of the statue of Marcus Aurelius on horseback and the elegant wide-step staircase. If you’re a fan of art, be sure to also check out the impressive collections of the Capitoline Museums located within the square!
To get to Piazza del Campidoglio from the Colosseum, head straight down Via dei Fori Imperiali then turn left after passing the Vittorio Emanuele II Monument. The scenic journey will take about fifteen minutes in total. Pro tip: From the terrace behind the square, you can also observe breathtaking views over the Colosseum, Roman Forum and Palatine Hill!
4. Take in Panoramic Views From the Top of the Vittorio Emanuele II Monument
Taking the elevator up to the top of the Vittorio Emanuele II Monument is next up on our list of things to do in Rome near the Colosseum. This imposing building, also known as the Vittoriano or Altare della Patria, was constructed between 1885 and 1935 to honor the first king of Italy. For unbeatable views over the entire city of Rome, we recommend visiting its panoramic rooftop. A ticket to the Vittoriano terrace costs €17 and also includes entrance to the Central Museum of the Risorgimento and National Museum of Palazzo Venezia.
5. Admire the Chandeliers Within the Basilica of Saints John and Paul on the Caelian Hill
Among the most spectacular things to see in Rome off the beaten path are the dazzling chandeliers adorning the Basilica of Saints John and Paul on the Caelian Hill. This church is a hidden gem that’s nestled just a thirteen minute stroll away from the Colosseum. Though the church is free to visit, you can opt to donate €5 to witness each of its thirty-five chandeliers light up all at once before your eyes! Note that the Basilica of Saints John and Paul is open daily from 8:30 AM to 12:45 PM and 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM.
6. Explore the Ancient Roman Baths of Caracalla and Observe the Reflecting Pool Outside
If you’re hoping to dive deeper into the history of Ancient Rome after your Colosseum tour, we suggest making your way to the Baths of Caracalla located a fourteen minute walk away. This remarkable complex once contained a variety of baths, pools and recreation facilities. As you traverse through the grounds today, you’ll be able to admire original mosaics that offer a glimpse into the structure’s former glory. Recently, a new reflecting pool was also installed out front, reminding visitors of the site’s storied connection with water. For just €8, the Baths of Caracalla are not to be missed!
7. Stroll Along the Circus Maximus Where Chariot Races Were Once Held
The Circus Maximus is one of the most interesting things to see near the Colosseum. This expansive park is positioned just a seven minute stroll down the street and was once home to the largest stadium in antiquity. Here, countless festivals, political gatherings and chariot races took place across the centuries. Though only ruins remain within the archeological site now, it’s fun to picture what the thrilling atmosphere of the Circus Maximus must have been like at its peak. Just imagine cheering on your favorite competitors as they raced around the track!
8. Wander Through Rome’s Seasonal Rose Garden
If you’re wondering what to do in Rome during spring, look no further than Il Roseto! This seasonal rose garden is situated across the road from the Circus Maximus and blossoms with more than a thousand diverse species of roses from around the world. These flowers come in all shapes, sizes and colors while some even boast their own distinct smells! Note that Rome’s rose garden is only open for a few months each year when the flowers bloom. If you are lucky enough to be in town when it happens, be sure to add this free rose garden to your itinerary as it is one of the most picturesque parks in Rome!
9. Discover the the Circular Basilica of Santo Stefano Rotondo and its Unique Frescoes
If you’re fascinated by the darker side of history, here’s an idea of what to see near the Colosseum: the Basilica of Santo Stefano Rotondo. You can reach this unusual church by foot in just eleven minutes and there’s a lot to unpack once inside. Beside boasting a mesmerizing circular design, the basilica also houses a variety of gruesome frescoes depicting scenes of martyrdom. Santo Stefano Rotondo is open to visitors for free Tuesday through Sunday from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM and 3:30 PM to 6:30 PM.
10. Enjoy the Vibrant Atmosphere of Giardino degli Aranci
Watching the sunset from Giardino degli Aranci is another one of the best things to do in Rome near the Colosseum. This peaceful park on Aventine Hill features an orange garden, towering stone pine trees and a lookout point popular among travelers and locals alike. The terrace is famous for offering a marvelous view over St. Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City, further contributing to its allure as one of the most picturesque parks in Rome. From the Colosseum, you can reach this beloved garden in less than a twenty minute walk.
11. Peer Through the Aventine Keyhole for a Glimpse of the Dome of St. Peter’s Basilica
Just down the road from Giardino degli Aranci, you’ll encounter a delightful attraction known as the Aventine keyhole. Within the tiny opening of the grand green doors of Piazza dei Cavalieri di Malta, 3, you’ll discover a perfectly framed view of the dome of St. Peter’s Basilica. Due to its novelty, the Aventine Keyhole has also earned a spot on our list of the best 10 free hidden gems in Rome. If you’re looking for what to do near the Colosseum, know that this sight is a real showstopper!
12. Traverse the Ruins of Trajan’s Markets and the Museo dei Fori Imperiali
Right down the street from the Colosseum, you’ll encounter more ancient ruins that bear a captivating story of their own. Trajan’s Markets were built during the 2nd century under Emperor Trajan and once housed an assortment of bustling shops and offices. Today, you can wander through the multilayered structure while learning about Imperial art and architecture. Tickets to Trajan’s Markets and the Museo dei Fori Imperiali cost €13.
13. Step Back in Time at the Layered Basilica of San Clemente
Venturing beneath the surface of the Basilica of San Clemente is another one of the most intriguing things to do in Rome just around the corner from the Colosseum. Underneath this 12th-century basilica, you’ll find the ruins of a church that was constructed many centuries prior. Even further underground, lie an ancient temple and a large Roman building. As you descend through the various layers of history, you’ll gain a more comprehensive understanding of how the city of Rome has evolved since antiquity. Though the basilica is free to visit, you must purchase a ticket to enter the subterranean archaeological area which costs €10.
14. Roam Down the Ancient Roman Street of Clivus Argentarius
Between the towering Vittorio Emanuele II Monument and the Roman Forum, you’ll find the Clivus Argentarius. This storied road was a vital route in Ancient Rome which linked key destinations. Even today, the avenue remains open to travelers traversing the various corners of the city. Strolling along the Clivus Argentarius quite literally allows you to follow in the footsteps of the ancient Romans!
15. Capture Incredible Photos at Giardinetto del Monte Oppio
Marveling at the awe-inspiring view from Giardinetto del Monte is last up on our list of things to do in Rome, Italy, near the Colosseum. This scenic park is located on top of the hill right next to the famous amphitheater. Despite its centralized location, many travelers aren’t aware of this viewpoint, so you’ll most likely be able to take some outstanding photos away from the many crowds below. For this reason, Giardinetto del Monte Oppio has also made it on our ranking of the top free hidden gems in Rome!
Discover the Wonders of Rome & Vatican City on Tour with us!
When in Rome, visiting the Colosseum is an absolute must, but there are many more breathtaking sites that await your discovery nearby as well. We hope that you found this guide useful in planning your upcoming travel itinerary. To make the most out of your visit to the Eternal City, be sure to secure your spot on one of our exclusive guided tours of the Colosseum, Roman Forum and Palatine Hill, such as our Complete Colosseum Underground Tour, our VIP Private Colosseum Tour, or our Gladiator’s Gate Colosseum Arena Floor Tour.
Looking for more exciting activities in Rome and Vatican City? Check out our expert-led tours of Rome and our top-rated tours of the Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel and St. Peter’s Basilica!
For any questions or assistance with booking one of our tours, kindly reach out to our team via email at info@whatalifetours.com or by phone at +39 06 89 111 009 and we’ll get back to you as soon as possible.
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