Rome is known as one of the most romantic cities and the perfect location for couples looking for a special time away.
Not only does it have world-famous landmarks like the Colosseum and the Vatican City, but simply wandering through its beautiful streets and tasting the delicious Italian dishes make for fun ways to spend time together.
In addition to taking in the sights, there are also plenty of free things to do in Rome if you’re looking to explore this gorgeous city on a budget.
Whether you’re in the city for a weekend or a longer holiday, check out romantic things to do in Rome for couples.
1. Take in the sights from St Peter’s Basilica
One of the coolest features of Rome is that you can easily step out of Italy and make a short visit to another country – Vatican City.
Within the Vatican, heading to St Peter’s Basilica should be on your itinerary. It doesn’t cost anything to get in, although there’s often a long queue, and it’s one of the best free things to do in Rome.
However, you can also climb to the top of the dome at St Peter’s for a small fee, either taking the stairs or using a lift that gets you most of the way up.
The views from the top are outstanding and some of the best in Rome, so don’t miss out during your trip to the city!
2. Have a cultured trip to the Vatican Museums
A visit to the Vatican Museums is a must for any couple visiting Rome, with a vast collection of art and artifacts from around the world. The Sistine Chapel is a standout attraction, of course, with Michelangelo’s famous ceiling depicting famous biblical scenes like the creation of Adam.
Another top attraction at the Vatican Museums is the Gallery of Maps, a unique and visually stunning gallery showcasing detailed frescoes of Italy and its regions.
Whether you’re art lovers, history buffs, or just appreciate beautiful things, a trip to the Vatican Museums is one of the best things to do in Rome for couples.
3. Climb to the top of Castel Sant’Angelo
Climbing to the top of Castel Sant’Angelo offers visitors to Rome a glimpse into its rich history and breathtaking panoramic views of the city. This ancient fortress has served as a military stronghold, a mausoleum, and a prison, and offers some of the best views in Rome.
Once at the top, visitors can enjoy the stunning sights of Rome’s skyline, including landmarks like St. Peter’s Basilica, the Pantheon, and the Tiber River.
In addition to the views, the castle has been repurposed as a museum showcasing art and artifacts from throughout the ages, offering a fascinating look at Rome’s past.
There’s also a great little cafe in the castle where you can sit outside with views across the Vatican while enjoying some delicious suppli!
4. Have a picnic in Villa Borghese
One of the most beautiful areas of Rome is Villa Borghese, a large park close to the Spanish Steps.
The green spaces and peaceful pathways make it a great location for a romantic stroll, but it’s also a perfect setting for a picnic.
Enjoy some tasty food and take a seat on a bench by one of the fountains, or on the grass on a sunny day, and it’s one of the best things to do in Rome for couples.
There are a couple of cafes in the park too, so you can always buy something when you’re there.
5. Hire a rowing boat
One of the best things to do in Villa Borghese is to take to the water at the boating lake by hiring a rowing boat.
There are few better ways to enjoy a sunny day together than enjoying the cool waters of this small lake and relaxing in your own boat.
With a beautiful temple by the waterside, it’s also a great place to get a few memorable pictures.
There are also terrapins that live around the edge of the lake, so there’s a lot to see!
6. Cycle around a park together
Another activity in Villa Borghese that’s a lot of fun for couples is to hire bikes and explore the park that way.
You can either hire individual bikes or get rickshaw-style bikes that you can share together. With an electric motor, you can go surprisingly fast and it’s a lot of fun!
There are a couple of places you can hire them from and for anywhere between an hour to a whole day, so you’ll have plenty of time to discover everything that Villa Borghese has to offer.
7. Toss a coin in the Trevi Fountain
Tossing a coin into the Trevi Fountain is one of the most iconic traditions in Rome. It’s said that those who throw a coin into the fountain will have good luck and be guaranteed a return visit to the city.
The Trevi Fountain itself is a masterpiece of Baroque art and architecture and is located in a small square in the heart of Rome, making it a popular spot for visitors and locals alike.
It’s also one of the most romantic locations in Rome, being a popular spot for couples to get memorable photos together. There’s also a good chance you’ll see a proposal or two while you’re there!
8. Go on a boat trip on the Tiber
Going on a boat trip on the Tiber River is a unique and enjoyable way to see the city of Rome. The Tiber flows through the heart of Rome and offers stunning views of the city’s iconic landmarks.
During a boat trip on the Tiber, you’ll get a chance to see some of Rome’s most famous sights from a new angle. You’ll pass under historic bridges such as Ponte Sant’Angelo and Ponte Sisto, and it’s a peaceful and relaxing way to take in the sights and sounds of Rome.
A boat trip on the Tiber is a great activity for couples, families, or solo travelers. You can choose from a variety of different tours and routes, and it’s a memorable way to experience Rome.
9. Test your love at the Bocca della Verità
Visiting the Bocca della Verità is a must-do experience for couples travelling to Rome. This ancient artefact is a large marble disc with a face carved into it, supposedly an old Roman manhole cover, and it is said to have the power to tell the truth.
Legend has it that if you tell a lie while your hand is in the mouth of the Bocca della Verità, it will snap shut and bite your hand off. While this is just a myth, it certainly adds a lot of excitement for couples declaring their love to each other!
The Bocca della Verità is located in the portico of the Santa Maria in Cosmedin church in Rome, and it attracts thousands of visitors every year. Having no entry fee, a visit to the Bocca della Verità is also one of the most must-do free things to do in Rome.
10. Get drinks on a rooftop bar
When visiting Rome, experiencing the city’s nightlife and stunning views by getting drinks on a rooftop bar is a must-do activity for couples. With a variety of bars available, you’ll surely find the perfect spot to soak up the city’s atmosphere while watching the sunset or as part of a romantic date night.
Rooftop bars in Rome offer a stylish and memorable atmosphere, featuring stunning views of the city that stretch for miles. Sunsets and starry nights can be enjoyed while relaxing on comfortable seating and taking in the beautiful decor.
Getting drinks on a rooftop bar in Rome is an unforgettable way to experience the city’s nightlife. With so many options available, you can choose the perfect venue that suits your preferences and enjoy an unforgettable evening together.
11. Enjoy a romantic meal in Trastevere
Enjoying a romantic meal in Trastevere is a must-do experience for couples visiting Rome. This charming neighbourhood is known for its picturesque cobblestone streets, colourful houses, and lively piazzas, making it the perfect spot for a romantic evening out.
Trastevere is home to some of best restaurants in Rome, serving up delicious Italian cuisine in a cosy and intimate atmosphere. Whether you’re in the mood for traditional Roman dishes or something more contemporary, you’ll find plenty of options to suit your tastes.
After dinner, take a stroll through the streets of Trastevere, hand in hand with your loved one. The neighbourhood has a lively nightlife scene, with plenty of bars and cafes where you can enjoy a drink or dessert.
Whether you’re in Rome for a honeymoon, anniversary, or just a romantic getaway, a meal in Trastevere is the perfect way to celebrate your love.
12. Wander around the Pantheon
Visiting the Pantheon in Rome is a must-see experience for couples interested in history or architecture. This ancient temple was built over 2,000 years ago, and it remains one of the best-preserved examples of ancient Roman engineering.
The Pantheon is a masterpiece of design and engineering, with its enormous dome and intricate interior decorations. With the central Oculus, a hole in the dome that lets in sunlight from above, it is considered one of the most impressive feats of engineering in the world.
Because of the beautiful architecture and the many food and drink options in the piazza outside, visiting the Pantheon is one of the best things to do in Rome for couples.
