Rome is a bustling city famous for its culture and history and no matter what time of day it is, there is always something to do and see. Whether you enjoy sightseeing, sampling the local cuisine or simply wandering the streets and experiencing the local way of life, you will certainly find it all here in Rome!
If you plan to visit Rome, here are some of my top recommendations for some cool things to do at night!
Take a night walking tour
I love taking walking tours and find that they are a great way of learning about the city and discovering hidden gems. Taking a night walking tour will enable you to see the city lit up and discover the magic of Rome at night!
‘Get your guide’ offer night walking and also bike tours.
Stroll along the river and watch the sunset over Castel Sant’ Angelo
If you’re looking for a beautiful spot to watch the sunset, head to the riverside or admire the sunset from the Sant’Angelo bridge. Castel Sant’ Angelo is one of the most iconic monuments in Rome. The ‘castle’ was commissioned in 125BC by the Roman emperor as a mausoleum for his family. It was later converted into a fortress and prison. The castle overlooks the Vatican City and the Tiber River, offering great views over the city. The castle is open from 9.00am until 7.30pm and tickets cost 12 euros per person.
See the stunning city lights of Rome from the top of the Spanish Steps
Witnessing Rome all lit up at night is a truly breath-taking sight. The Spanish steps are a beautiful location to enjoy a great view of the city and also a great spot to people watch! (Who doesn’t love people watching?)
The 135-marble staircase is located between Piazza di Spagna and Trinità dei Monti church. Usually, this place is super crowded during the day so visiting at night is the perfect time to snap some great pictures! There are also some really expensive boutique and designer shops around this area if you’re wanting to splurge… or just window shop!
Sample the nightlife in the Trastevere neighbourhood
Trastervere is one of the best areas for nightlife in Rome. The narrow cobblestone streets and ivy draped buildings feature a wide variety of bars, restaurants and artisan shops. This lively neighbourhood is a popular spot for locals and tourists to hang out and enjoy live music and entertainment.
Wander along the River Tiber (Lungo il Tevere) and check out the bars, restaurants and market stalls
The River Tiber runs right through the heart of the city and as mentioned before, it is a great place to enjoy an evening stroll and watch the sunset. Along the riverside, there are many great restaurants and bars offering aperitivo, snacks and also international food (Of course I love Italian food, but if you’re fancying something different, they have a great Mexican restaurant here).
Enjoy dinner whilst admiring the 3 fountains at Piazza Navona
Piazza Navona is one of the most beautiful squares in the city of Rome. In my opinion, it is best visited at night when all three of the beautiful fountains are lit up under the moonlight. This square is also buzzing with people, buskers and street artists, restaurants, bars and gelaterias.
Piazza Navona stands above the Domitian stadium and you can get a little glimpse of the ruins at the end of the square. If you’re a history buff, you can also take a tour of the archaeological remains.’
Partake in the famous Italian tradition called Aperitvo
One of my favourite things about Italy is Aperitivo and where better to sample it than the countries capital city! Between 5-8pm, head to any bar and enjoy some light drinks and free snacks! Think of it as a little warm up to dinner!
Sample the local cuisine
As we all know, Italy is known for its great food and wine. Whilst in Rome, eat like a Roman! After Aperitivo, head to a restaurant to enjoy some local dishes. Some of my favourites were: Bucatini Amatriciana pasta, Tonnarelli Cacio and Pepe pasta or for a snack, Supplì- A fried ball filled with meat, tomato sauce and mozzarella.
Restaurant recommendations:
Near the Trevi fountain
-Il Chianti restaurant
-Hosteria de pastini
-La taberna (beautiful décor- looks like a church inside)
Trastervere
-Ristorante la lanonica
Visit the Testaccio Market
If you’re a foodie, you will want to check out one of the best food markets in Rome. Here you can sample a range of wines, local foods and delicacies.
Admire the city views at one of the rooftop bars
Rome’s rooftop bars offer a great place to enjoy a drink and nibbles with a view.
A couple of great places to try are:
-Zuma bar, lounge and terrace (great cocktail list and they also have a Japanese restaurant)
-The court terrace bar (Inside the Hotel Palazzo Manfredi) (Enjoy drinks in the rooftop bar or book a reservation at the Aroma restaurant. This luxury restaurant offers the best views of the Colosseum in the whole of Rome- perfect for a special occasion! (Book in advance it is very popular)
See the lit-up facade of the Pantheon
One of the most charming spots in Rome is in front of this spot. The Pantheon is closed at night, but the squares (Piazza della Rotonda or Piazza del Pantheon) come alive with busy bars, restaurants and entertainers. I spent an evening enjoying dinner here, right in front of the Pantheon and listening to the most amazing opera singer!
