Outdoors in Rome

There is a magnificent array of museums in and around the city, and you absolutely should check every one of them out, but not at the expense of ignoring all of the great outdoor activities in Rome.

Whether it’s on a bike tour through the historic thoroughfares or trotting on foot along ancient alleyways in the footsteps of Caesar himself, there are many wonderful ways to spend time outdoors in Rome. The Romans were smart when they built this city because they included a lot of space for parks, including the glorious Villa Borghese that provides a vast and beautiful expanse full of outdoor activities and a much-needed oasis from the congested city streets.

Although outdoor events in Rome no longer include bloody gladiator battles, one can easily imagine the roaring crowds when ambling through the incredible Coliseum. Just relaxing in one of the many famous gathering areas like the Piazza di Spagna is a classic way to spend time outdoors in Rome, both for its famous Spanish Steps leading up to the Trinità dei Monti church and its proximity to some great outdoor shopping.

The ritzy stores of Piazza di Spagna give way to chic boutiques on the way down Via del Babuino toward Piazza del Popolo, a charming square often ignored by tourists – which makes it a wonderful spot for resting after a shopping spree.

As night falls, streams of people head toward Campo de’ Fiori, where an international crowd gathers to mingle and share a drink after a day of sightseeing, study, or work at more than twenty bars and restaurants with bursting outdoor patios.

Whether for via wandering sightseeing, purposeful shopping or something in-between, there are many Rome outdoor activities to enjoy. Prego!