When you think of Rome, what comes to mind? Probably the Colosseum, Trevi Fountain, and Vatican City. And don’t get me wrong—those are worth seeing. But what if you’re craving something more offbeat? The kind of experiences that make you feel like you’re part of Rome’s secret rhythm? I’ve been there too—wandering cobbled alleys looking for something unexpected. And trust me, Rome has a lot to offer beyond its postcard spots.
So here it is: your ultimate guide to 20 unusual things to do in Rome, Italy. These aren’t just quirky side notes. They’re the city’s heartbeat—from hidden gems in Rome, Italy, and secret tunnels to the best non-touristy restaurants in Rome and surreal views you won’t find in any mainstream guidebook.
Unusual Things to Do in Rome You Won’t Believe Exist
If you’re already enchanted by Rome’s iconic landmarks but still crave experiences that feel fresh, underground, and wonderfully weird—you’re in the right place. From catacombs full of bones to candlelit opera in a private apartment, this list dives into Rome’s secret corners.
In this city, history gets weird, food gets unexpected, and adventure is hidden behind every alleyway. If you’re seeking out hidden Rome attractions or non-touristy things to do in Rome, Italy, then these ideas are perfect for you.
1. Visit the Capuchin Crypts—Rome’s Most Haunting Secret Beneath Santa Maria della Concezione
This serene church is nestled beneath the Capuchin Crypts, which contain the bones of over 4,000 monks. It is far from creepy but rather a hauntingly beautiful reflection on mortality that is created by the ornate bone arrangements. It is a deeply reflective experience, revealing Rome’s unusual spiritual history.
- How to get there: Just a 2-minute walk from Barberini Metro Station (Line A)
- Best time to visit: If you want to avoid crowds, go early in the morning
- Tip: Take in the solemn atmosphere without taking pictures
2. Sip Cocktails in a Secret Underground Speakeasy near Piazza Navona
Is there anything unusual to do in Rome at night? Discover a hidden cocktail bar reminiscent of the Prohibition era near Piazza Navona. With vintage vibes, a secret password, and expert mixologists, it’s one of the best hidden attractions in Rome after dark.
- Where: Jerry Thomas Speakeasy, Vicolo Cellini 30
- Booking: Mandatory via the official website; a password will be emailed upon confirmation
- Tip: Take advantage of the intimate atmosphere by arriving on time
3. Peek Through the Aventine Keyhole for a Magical View of St. Peter’s
Imagine peering through a tiny keyhole to see a perfectly framed view of St. Peter’s Basilica. One of the most unique things to do in Rome, this keyhole on Aventine Hill is pure magic and surprisingly emotional.
- How to get there: From Circo Massimo Metro Station, it is a 10-minute walk (Line B)
- Best time to visit: At sunset or in the early morning for a peaceful experience
- Tip: There may be a short wait, but you will not regret it
4. Discover Rome’s Pyramid of Cestius—An Ancient Egyptian Relic
Wait, there’s a pyramid in Rome? Yep. Built in 18 BCE during the Egyptian craze, this sharp stone triangle near Piramide station is a hidden gem in Rome, Italy. This sharp, stone pyramid stands out amid Roman ruins, built in 18 BCE during Rome’s fascination with Egypt.
- Where: Next to Piramide Metro Station (Line B)
- Tip: Book in advance to access the interior, only available via guided tours on select days
5. Taste Trapizzino in Testaccio—Rome’s Street Food Gem
In this sandwich-meets-pizza, you’ll find a must-eat hidden gem. A trapizzino is a triangular bread pocket filled with Roman classics such as oxtail stew or eggplant parm. It’s an experience that locals love that’s not touristy.
- Where: Via Giovanni Branca 88, Testaccio
- Best time to visit: After lunch or in the evening
- Tip: There are vegetarian options available; try multiple fillings
6. Explore Ostiense’s Vibrant Street Art and Industrial-Chic Neighborhood
In Ostiense, Rome‘s artsy, gritty district, you can find colorful urban murals alongside massive graffiti and bold street art. Located in the heart of Rome, it showcases a contemporary, creative side of Rome that few tourists see.
- How to get there: Take the Metro Line B to Garbatella or Piramide
- Best time to visit: During the day for vibrant colors and safe walking
- Tip: Visit Eataly’s craft beer market before your visit
7. Experience the Vatican Museums’ Magical Night Openings from April to October
Nighttime at the Vatican Museums offers a completely different experience—fewer people, softer lighting, and a mystical ambiance beneath Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel ceiling. You’ll get an unusual look at one of Rome’s top attractions.
- Booking: Required in advance on the official Vatican website
- Dress code: Shoulders and knees must be covered for entry
- Tip: Book early; Friday nights fill fast and offer a more intimate experience
8. Wander Through the Whimsical Coppedè District, Rome’s Architectural Fantasy Land
In Coppedè, you’ll find dragon mosaics, whimsical fountains, and quirky Liberty-style villas. There is nothing like this off-the-beaten-path spot in Rome for architecture lovers and photographers.
- How to get there: Take tram 3 or 19 to Piazza Buenos Aires
- Best time to visit: During daylight hours for best photos
- Tip: Take a stroll through the streets of this lesser-known city with your camera
9. Attend an Intimate Candlelit Opera Concert in a Secret Roman Apartment
Book a seat with Rome Opera Omnia for an opera experience unlike any other. You’ll enjoy opera in private apartments or chapels. Every performance is emotional and unforgettable because of the intimate setting, away from the crowds.
- Dress code: Smart casual
- Tip: Be sure to arrive early so you can soak in the cozy atmosphere before the show begins
10. Journey Beneath San Clemente Church to Discover Ancient Layers of Rome
San Clemente is a unique archaeological treasure with three layers: a 12th-century basilica on top, a 4th-century church below, and an ancient pagan temple at the bottom, complete with a still-flowing underground spring.
- Location: Via Labicana 95, 5-minute walk from the Colosseum Metro Station
- Tip: Don’t miss the subterranean spring—a rare, living piece of ancient Rome
11. Chill Like a Local on Tiber Island—Rome’s Secret Summer Social Spot
Tucked between Trastevere and the Jewish Ghetto, Isola Tiberina turns into a riverside haven in summer. Locals gather for outdoor films, pop-up bars, and evening strolls with gelato. Silent discos and candlelit aperitivo tables make it the perfect sunset hangout away from tourist crowds.
- How to get there: Cross Ponte Fabricio from the Ghetto Ebraico
- Best time to visit: June–September, after 6 PM
- Tip: Bring cash for snacks, and arrive early for film seating
12. Experience Rome’s Weirdest Optical Illusion at Via Piccolomini
Ever seen a dome shrink as you get closer? Head to Via Piccolomini to watch St. Peter’s Basilica defy physics. This quirky forced-perspective trick is only known to in-the-know Romans. It’s short, sweet, and perfect for a fun detour on your way to Gianicolo Hill.
- How to get there: Take bus 982 or a taxi from the Trastevere or the Vatican area
- Tip: Film your walk—this illusion blows up on Instagram
13. Ride a Vespa Along the Ancient Appian Way Like a Roman Movie Star
Want to feel like you’re in Roman Holiday? Rent a Vespa or e-bike and cruise the Via Appia Antica, an ancient Roman road flanked by aqueducts, ruins, and pine trees. It’s peaceful, cinematic, and surprisingly empty of crowds.
- Start at: Via Appia Antica Regional Park entrance, near Cecilia Metella
- Pro tip: Go early morning or golden hour for dreamy light and quiet paths
14. Watch the Sunset in the Scented Orange Garden on Aventine Hill
Giardino degli Aranci offers one of the most peaceful views in Rome. Locals come here for romantic walks, golden sunsets, and the faint scent of citrus trees. Sit under the orange groves and watch the Tiber shimmer below.
- Location: Piazza Pietro d’Illiria, Aventine Hill
- Best time: Around 7–8 PM in summer
15. Visit the Cat Sanctuary Where Julius Caesar Was Betrayed
At Largo di Torre Argentina, history meets whiskers. Among ancient ruins where Caesar was assassinated, a colony of rescue cats now reigns. Run by volunteers, this cat sanctuary is heartwarming, surreal, and undeniably Roman.
- Best for: History nerds, animal lovers, wanderers
- Tip: You can adopt a Roman cat—or sponsor one from afar
16. Skip Tourist Traps—Dine at Best Hidden Restaurants in Rome, Loved by Locals
Avoid tourist menus and discover real Roman flavor at these off-the-radar gems. Da Enzo al 29 in Trastevere is cozy and famed for cacio e pepe. Osteria Fernanda in Testaccio serves up Bib Gourmand-level dishes with flair. Craving bold flavors? Try SantoPalato in San Giovanni—modern Roman food with offal and attitude.
- Tip: Book ahead—locals snag tables early
- Pro tip: Ask for daily specials and local wine pairings
17. Step Inside Rome’s Hidden Churches with Big Surprises and Zero Crowds
Rome’s lesser-known churches offer intimate beauty and big history. Visit Santa Maria in Cosmedin for the iconic Mouth of Truth and tranquil interiors. San Pietro in Vincoli houses Michelangelo’s awe-inspiring Moses. Dive underground at San Clemente to explore layers of ancient temples.
- Best time to visit: Morning, before tour groups arrive
- Tip: Wear modest attire and take your time—these spots are soulful
18. Take a Local-Led Experience That Shows You the Real Rome Behind the Scenes
Want to explore like a Roman? Skip generic tours and join locals who’ll take you into their world—literally. Sample buffalo mozzarella and porchetta on a Trionfale market food tour, hike the aqueduct trails outside the city, or sip sunset wine from a hidden rooftop.
- Where to book: Airbnb Experiences, WithLocals
- Tip: Read host reviews—personal vibes matter for immersive experiences
19. Catch an Indie Film at the World’s Smallest Cinema in Villa Borghese
Cinema dei Piccoli holds fewer than 70 seats and sits hidden among the trees of Villa Borghese. It’s officially the smallest purpose-built cinema on Earth. They screen Italian indies, classics, and kid-friendly films in a charmingly intimate setting.
- How to get there: Walk from Piazza di Spagna or Flaminio Metro Station
- Insider tip: Grab gelato at Giolitti or Gelateria dei Gracchi before your film
20. Explore a Surreal Art Museum in a Former Power Plant—Centrale Montemartini
At Centrale Montemartini, Roman statues stand beside industrial engines in a breathtaking blend of tech and antiquity. This former power station now houses marble gods and muses under steel beams and turbine halls. It’s one of the city’s weirdest and most fascinating museums.
- Where: Via Ostiense 106, 5 minutes from Piramide Metro Station
- Best time to visit: Weekday afternoons for quiet photos
- Photo tip: Snap Venus against the turbines—absolute Instagram gold.
To Wrap Up
Beyond its timeless ruins, Rome whispers stories through crooked alleys and candlelit corners. It’s not just about what you see—but how deeply you feel it. These unusual things to do in Rome invite you to discover the city with your heart, not just your eyes. Beneath every shadow lies a surprise; every detour hides a memory.
So slow down. Wander without purpose. Let Rome reveal herself in stolen moments and quiet wonders.
And if you find magic where no one’s looking—know you’ve met the real Rome.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where not to go in Rome?
While Rome is generally safe, avoid Termini Station late at night, overly touristy restaurants near major landmarks, and Trastevere’s back alleys alone after dark to stay cautious.
What are the top 3 things in Rome?
Undoubtedly, the Colosseum, Vatican Museums (including the Sistine Chapel), and Trevi Fountain top the list—each offering a breathtaking mix of history, art, and timeless Roman charm.
What is something unique about Rome?
Interestingly, Rome is home to a city within a city—Vatican City, the smallest country in the world, complete with its government, post office, and guards.
What cannot be missed in Rome?
You absolutely can’t miss walking through the Roman Forum, tossing a coin in the Trevi Fountain, and savoring authentic carbonara in a hidden Trastevere trattoria.
