It would take a lifetime to explore everything that Rome has to offer. This means that, once you’ve ticked off the main tourist sites, one of the pleasures of the city is the things you discover just by wandering around. There are minor Roman sites, curiosities and lesser visited areas, all with the added possibility of finding an inviting back street café or restaurant. This is my own, very small, selection things to see off the beaten track, an introduction to hidden Rome.
Lesser Known Roman Sites
It may seem odd to include Roman remains in a list of “hidden Rome”: you may argue that these are why tourists come to Rome in the first place. However, there are lots of archaeological sites beyond the Forum and the Colosseum. You are likely to discover many of these just by keeping your eyes open as you explore.
You can find a few of the less visited Roman remains here – 7 Lesser Known Roman Sites In Rome.
The Caelian Hill
Of the seven hills of ancient Rome it is probably the Palatine and the Capitoline that are the best known. But the Caelian Hill, just a short walk from the Colosseum, is well worth a visit. This area was once home to wealthy Romans and was partly covered by a vineyard.
Today the former vineyard is occupied by the beautiful gardens of the Villa Celimontana. Elsewhere you can see parts of the Clivus Scauri, an old Roman road, and the Case Romane del Celio, the remains of a group of Roman houses. There are also several notable churches on the Caelian Hill, including the Basilica of St John Lateran, the cathedral church of Rome.
Bohemian Trastevere
Trastevere is Rome’s “left bank”, across the river from the main city. Easy to get to by bus or on foot, this is a lively, bohemian area, full of restaurants, churches and creative graffiti. Read more about Trastevere, the “other side” of Rome.
The Fantastical Quartiere Coppedè
Rome is a historic city, and its buildings are generally – well, a bit historic. So the Quartiere Coppedè might be a bit of a shock to the system – here you’ll find an eclectic architecture, a whimsical fusion of early 20th century styles. Read more about the Fantastical Quartiere Coppedè In Rome.
The Walls Of The Vatican City
The Vatican City is a very popular tourist spot but did you know that it is surrounded by a wall, and that you can walk around the outside of that wall? I did just that a few years ago, and enjoyed a stroll through peaceful residential districts as well as gaining a rather different perspective on the Vatican. Read more about walking round the walls of the Vatican City.
Tours Of Hidden Rome
A guided tour can be an excellent way of discovering new – and hidden – sights. Local guides have expert knowledge of places that tourists rarely see, and can also supply lots of background information (as well as tips for the best bars and restaurants to visit). There is a vast range available – possibilities include Hidden Rome Tour, Gladiators & Ancient Mysteries, Hidden Depths – Unveiling Underground Treasures, or even Ghosts, Secret Stories, Hidden Legends & Tastings. The choice is yours!
Day Trips From Rome
If you have more than a few days in the city, Rome is ideally placed for a number of day trips by train. You could head inland to the spa town of Tivoli, go south to Castel Gandolfo in the Castelli Romani region, or visit the ancient Roman port city of Ostia Antica. There is plenty to explore and discover.
3 thoughts on “Hidden Rome: Exploring Off The Beaten Track”
Nice to hear about those unique places that aren’t always in travel guides. Always find it fascinating that ruins like the Portico d’Ottavia can be in the heart of a city surrounded by local businesses. I haven’t been to Rome in (gulp) decades. Guess it’s time to go back.
I have not yet visited Italy but hope to make it there eventually! I always like to visit off-the-beaten track attractions so this post gives me some great ideas!
There is so much of Europe that we need to explore. Your wonderful article on the hidden sites in Rome makes us really yearn to travel. Let’s hope that 2021 is the year we can resume.