Last Updated on August 31, 2024 by Tori Pines
Rome is the most magical city in the world, in my opinion! And at night, it just gets that much more magical with the lights glowing, music wafting through the air, and couples walking hand in hand down the cobblestone streets. There’s a lot of things to do in Rome, Italy at night that you probably didn’t even know were happening from your quiet hotel room. So check out some of these fun things to do during your vacation in Roma.
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1. Take a Food Tour
One of my favorite things we have done in Rome, Italy at night is take a food tour! You’ll spend several hours around the city visiting some of the best restaurants in town, trying different Roman dishes. Usually the tours stay in a specific area of town, and the Trastevere neighborhood is a great option, since it is home to some of the best places to eat in town.
Some of the dishes you might get to try include Cacio e Pepe, Carbonara, Suppli, Fried Zucchini Flowers, braised or fried artichokes, Trapezzino and more! Italy is home to some of the best food in the world, and Rome has a wonderful cuisine specific to the city. Everything is so fresh and so much care is put into making it.
There’s tons of amazing food tours to choose from. The best and most thorough option would be this 4-hour tour through Trastevere that stops at 4 restaurants and includes 20 different dishes plus wine. It’s a really great option for something to do in Rome, Italy at night.
For a much more inexpensive option, this tour is just 2.5 hours long, and will only sample 5 street foods along the way. Or if you don’t have much time then this option could be right for you!
2. Attend a Cooking Class
If you’d rather learn how to make these incredible Roman dishes so that you can come home and recreate them, then plan to spend a night in Rome at a cooking class! I absolutely loved our cooking class, learning to make pastas and desserts. I’ve made them several times at home now and it transports me right back to my time in Italy.
Cooking classes are a great thing to do in Rome, Italy at night because it’s an activity and meal in one! Plus, they are usually not too expensive, considering you are getting a full meal, wine and class all in one.
There’s plenty of different cooking classes to choose from in Rome that include different things. The best option is this class that teaches you to make two different pastas and sauces plus tiramisu! It’s the perfect amount of meals!
If you’re looking for something different, this cooking class in Rome at night will teach you how to make both pizza and gelato instead. Talk about delicious! Either way, you are going to have so much fun, eat delicious food, and go home with new skills and recipes to use at home for years to come! That’s why this is one of the best things to do in Rome, Italy at night!
Tori’s Tip: Don’t have time available at night for a cooking class? Book one for lunch instead!
3. Have Dinner at the Most Authentic Restaurants
Of course one of the most common things to do in Rome, Italy at night is to enjoy a traditional Roman meal for dinner! Rome is filled to the brim with TONS of delicious and authentic Italian restaurants to choose from. However, it’s unfortunately also filled with many really bad touristy restaurants, as well. So it is incredibly important to do your research before you get to Rome, and know where you plan to have dinner in Rome, Italy at night.
Rome has a great variety of high-end to cheap-eats for dinner, so no matter what you are looking for, there’s something for everyone. We almost always eat at the mid-range spots for dinner and save the cheap eats for lunch.
Generally speaking, many of the best restaurants in Rome are located in the Trastevere neighborhood since that’s where many locals live. And then there are, of course, many others the further you get from the center of the city. It’s also important to know that Italians eat dinner very late, with 9-11pm reservation times being extremely normal. You definitely don’t have to eat that late, but the restaurants likely won’t open until at least 7pm. But don’t worry, you won’t go hungry if you partake in Aperitivo beforehand (more on that later!).
Here’s some of my favorite places for dinner in Rome:
Roscioli’s Salumeria
Located just a few blocks from Campo de’ Fiori, this spot is part of a collection of restaurants but the Salumeria is their sit down lunch and dinner restaurant. You’ll find a menu made up of some of the best and most authentic Roman dishes including zucchini flowers, prosciutto and melon, Cacio e Pepe, Amatriciana and more.
Da Enzo al 29
As I mentioned, Trastevere is home to many of the city’s best restaurants. So for a great thing to do in Rome, Italy at night, head to this neighborhood and get in line for a table at Da Enzo al 29. Yes, I said get in line because this is a super popular spot known for its fabulous Roman dishes. If you get here before they open you might have to spend less time in line, but not necessarily. The line gets long very quickly, so if you want a chance at the first seating you probably need to get there more than 30 minutes before the opening.
Once you finally get a seat, be prepared to fill up on classics like carbonara, burrata and tomatoes and tiramisu of course! It’s a perfect way to spend a night in Rome.
Pane e Salame
This one is much more on the casual and inexpensive side, but they serve incredible panini and charcuterie boards here! Also a wonderful option for lunch.
Osteria da Fortunata
All around Rome, you’ll find this wonderful restaurant serving up freshly made pasta covered in yummy homemade sauces. You will likely even watch them making the pasta there in the dining room! They have 5 locations in Rome alone, several others throughout Italy, one in the U.S. (Miami) and another coming soon to NYC! There are many locations for a reason; the food is delicious!
Mimì e Cocò
This spot is located super close to the center of the city and while slightly touristy, they still serve up some delicious and authentic Roman food. The service is great and they serve focaccia bread, which is always a win in my book.
Ginger – Pantheon
Now, if for whatever reason you are sick of Italian food (I know, I’m crazy for even saying that) then you should head to Ginger! There are a few locations but one is right by the Pantheon. We had this on our very last night of 12 nights in Italy and it totally hit the spot when we wanted anything but pizza and pasta.
And if for whatever reason you don’t have a restaurant planned for dinner, just be sure to follow these important rules. Never eat at a restaurant where there are photos on the menu. Also, don’t eat where they are standing outside inviting you to come in, that’s never a good sign. And most importantly, never eat anywhere that’s directly next to a tourist site (unless it’s highly recommended). Generally speaking, walk far from the main tourist areas to find the best, most authentic spots to dine!
4. Eat only the Best Gelato
As with restaurants, there are many terrible gelato shops in Italy. But the good ones? They’re to die for. So be sure to do your research and find the best in the city. My friends Adam and Kathryn from Adventures of A+K have a great list of their favorite gelato spots in Rome that will be a great start.
When searching for a place for gelato on your own, always follow these two important rules. Look for gelato that’s flat, not piled high behind the glass. If it’s covered with lids then that’s even better! And also look for places that serve gelatos with muted colors. For example, pistachio should be a brownish green, not neon green! Follow those rules and you’ll be sure to eat delicious gelato each night in Rome.
5. See the Trevi Fountain Lit Up
It’s one of my favorite things to do in Rome, Italy at night, admiring the stunning Trevi fountain after dark when it’s glowing. There’s something so magical about it at night. However, it will be packed (unless you go super late of course). So I recommend you also visit first thing in the morning as well to get epic photos with no one in the background. Before 7am is best! Just look at how beautiful that second photo is, it looks like I own the place!
6. Walk along the Tiber River
A super romantic thing to do in Rome, Italy at night is to walk along the majestic Tiber River. Admire the views and all of the lights bouncing off the water. There will likely be street musicians playing, and many couples wandering and enjoying the peacefulness of the city at night.
7. Hang Out at the Lungo il Tevere
If you’re visiting Rome in the summer, you can spend your nights in Rome at the Lungo il Tevere, a fun festival set up along the Tiber River. Here you’ll find food stands, live music and plenty of shopping. It’s a really fun time and one of the best things to do in Rome, Italy at night each summer!
8. Views from the Altare della Patria
The Altare della Patria is also known as the wedding cake building. It’s a bright white, tall building (hence the nickname) and seems to stick out like a sore thumb amongst the ancient buildings surrounding it. And even though this building gets a bad rep, I honestly kinda like it. Plus, it’s right next to the Roman Forum, so you’ll likely be passing it a lot as you explore the city.
Located inside is the Central Museum of the Risorgimento. But the thing you’ll be coming here for is not a museum, instead it’s the panoramic terrace on top of the building! You’ll be treated to stunning views of the city. Try to get there for sunset for the best experience. But the last entry is at 6:45pm, so be there by then to get in! You can buy tickets in advance to make entry fast and seamless.
9. Stop by Different Rooftop Bars
One of the ways we enjoy experiencing Rome, Italy at night is by visiting the best rooftop bars in the city! Visit a few throughout your time in Rome for delicious drinks, light appetizers and views of the bustling city below you. We love relaxing in Rome and getting away from the city for a bit. Plus, they’re usually pretty romantic, and a great way to spend some quality time with your person!
A few favorites are The Court, Divinity Restaurant and Lounge, Oro Bistro and Garden Roof Trevi.
10. Go on a Colosseum Night Tour
Any visit to Rome will include a stop at the Colosseum. Of course you must take a tour to see this incredible wonder of the world, but you might want to consider going on a night tour instead of during the day! It’s definitely one of the most unique things to do in Rome, Italy at night, and most tourists don’t get this insanely cool experience!
The Colosseum does not always allow night tours though, so be sure to check the Colosseum’s website directly before your trip to see if they’ll be offering tours when you’re there!
11. Have Aperitivo with the Locals
If you haven’t read my Rome travel guide yet, then be sure to do so because it includes lots of information about Rome and Italy as a whole that you’ll need to know before your trip but wouldn’t even know to ask. Things like the glorious aperitivo.
Aperitivo is the Italian tradition of heading to a bar and getting drinks and light snacks before dinner. Sound familiar? Yep it’s the classier version of happy hour. Except they’re usually drinking an Aperol Spritz or a Negroni with nuts or crudites. While in the U.S. we pound down beers with our nachos. The Italians just do it better.
The point is, Aperitivo is just the way of life in Italy, so when you’re there, you should too. There’s tons of places to enjoy aperitivo, but here’s a few of my favorites.
The Court Bar: This bar has the best views ever, overlooking the Colosseum. It’s expensive, but appetizers come free with a drink. Plus it’s worth it for the views. Reservations are required.
Freni e Frizioni: This restaurant in Trastevere serves a huge appetizer buffet that’s included when you buy a drink. It could honestly be your entire meal!
Jerry Thomas Speakeasy: It’s a speakeasy, need I say more?! There’s just something so fun about playing pretend at a speakeasy! So head here for a super unique aperitivo.
12. Watch the Sunset
Sunsets happen every single day, yet there’s still something so magical about sitting down and actually taking the time to watch the sky turn the most beautiful shades of pink and orange. Plus, it’s that much more magical to watch the sunset over a European city like Rome. Grab a bottle of wine and head to The Janiculum Hill, The Pincian Hill or somewhere along the Tiber River to watch it go down.
13. Go on a Golf Cart Tour
Another one of the best things to do in Rome at night is to hop on the back of a golf cart and explore the city. A golf cart, in Rome?! I know, I know it sounds a little weird, but I promise, these tours are ALWAYS a huge hit for people visiting Rome. Especially if it’s your first time here and you really want to see the city and learn a lot about it.
There are tons of these tours to choose from depending on exactly what you want to see. This night golf cart tour for example is 2.5 hours long and takes you around to tons of the city’s top sights like the Colosseum, Trevi Fountain, Pantheon, and more. Plus your local guide will teach you all about the neighborhoods and the different things you see along the way.
It is easily one of the best ways to see the city, and it’s extra magical at night.
14. Visit The Ice Club
Easily the most unique thing you can possibly do in Rome, Italy at night is to get drinks at the Ice Club. It’s exactly what it sounds like, a club that is literally made of ice! From floor to ceiling things are made of ice including the chairs, tables, cups and more!
Entry will cost 15 euros per person, but that includes a drink. And any additional drinks are super reasonably priced, so it really is not expensive to experience this really fun bar in Rome!
15. Watch AS Roma at a Football Game
Football (Soccer as we know it in the US) is probably the thing that Italians and Europeans as a whole get the most excited about, so while you’re here, you should try to catch a game to see what all the hype is about! The energy is infectious.
Head to Stadio Olimpico to watch a game! Because like they say, when in Rome, do as the Romans do! They play almost all year long, so there’s a good chance you’ll be able to catch a game while you’re in Rome, Italy at night.
Where to Stay in Rome, Italy at Night
And of course, at the end of each night you’ll need somewhere to sleep! There are a million options for places to stay in Rome that it gets overwhelming. We have stayed at a few different spots in Rome and there’s benefits for each place! Here’s some I recommend.
Budget:
Chiara’s place at Pantheon: If you’re interested in staying in a vacation rental, this is your place! A great price, amazing reviews and is right next to the Pantheon…which in my opinion is the absolute best location in Rome!
Domus 21 Luxury Suites: Another very central location, perfect for walking everywhere! The rooms are a beautiful mix of old and new.
A Trastevere da M.E.: If you want the most authentic, local experience while still being close to everything, you need to stay in Trastevere! Plus, it’s where most of the best food is located. Win-win! This hotel is simple and modern and has great reviews.
Mid-Level:
The Pantheon Iconic Rome Hotel: We stayed here for a night and wished we had stayed longer…it was amazing and in the most incredible location! It’s a Marriott property which is great for those racking up their points!
Cosmopolita Hotel Rome: This Hilton brand hotel is located in a very central location. It’s always nice to stay in big brand hotels because you pretty much know what you’re paying for and can rely on cleanliness and comfort!
Luxury:
The St. Regis Rome: We stayed here several nights and adored this hotel purely for the glitz and glamor. It is a stunning hotel, the rooms are incredible and the service was top-notch! The location is not super ideal though. It’s really close to the train station which is nice, but still in a nice area of town. But it’s quite a walk to get to all of the sights and best restaurants.
Rome is absolutely magical at night, and honestly it’s fun to just walk around and take it all in. The lights are glowing and people are everywhere. It’s one of my favorite cities in the world to be in day or night, and I know you’ll love it too!
