These are the most romantic things to do in Rome for couples. These couples activities are perfect for first-time tourists and locals. They’re the most fun and exciting things to do in Rome for couples. 

Romantic Things to do in Rome for couples

These things for couples to do in Rome span every budget and activity preference. We’ve included activities at top tourist sites and places that are off the beaten path. 

You’ll find activities to do during the day and romantic things to do in Rome at night. Plus, you’ll find insider tips for visiting the most touristy places and the top things to do. Rome is such a magical and beautiful city. It’s meant to be explored with your significant other!

Best Hotels in Rome for Couples 

If you’re planning a romantic Italian getaway, you’re probably wondering about the best places to stay in Rome for couples. These are the best hotels in Rome Italy for couples, and they’re within your budget!

View our interactive map of Rome, so you can find a location that works best for you.

The following accommodations have been selected for their romantic style and design features. Also, they’re well rated by guests. Each hotel on this list has unique amenities. 

Budget Romantic Accommodations 

The Trilussa Palace Hotel is the best hotel in Rome for couples on a budget. It’s located in the Trastevere neighborhood in the heart of Rome. It’s regarded for its romantic, Louis XIV style decor. They also offer a seductive Turkish bathhouse and a world-class spa.

Book your stay at the Trilussa Palace Hotel in Rome. 

Hotel San Anselmo is another excellent pick for budget travelers. The hotel is housed inside a historic villa that was artfully restored. Picture velvet, chandeliers, and flowy curtains. Breakfast is included in your stay!

Click here to see more photos of Hotel San Anselmo.

Mid-Range Romantic Accommodations 

Hotel Aldrovandi is a 5-star hotel within the Borghese Gardens. It’s the most romantic scenery in Rome! This hotel’s restaurant even has a Michelin star. 

Find out more about Hotel Aldrovandi. 

Hotel Majestic is another affordable option with many luxurious touches. The architecture is historic and romantic. Rich textures, bright colors, and frescoed ceilings. The feeling of magic is in the air. This is the best hotel in Rome for couples looking for an affordable luxury experience. 

Check out the Hotel Majestic.

Luxury Romantic Accommodations 

Ultimate luxury travelers will rejoice at the First Roma Arte. This hotel has high-end design features and all the top-tier amenities you would expect. The rooftop bar at First Roma Arte is one of the best places to visit in Rome at night.

Find your perfect room at the First Roma Arte.

Another excellent option for luxury travelers is the St. Regis Rome. It’s one of the best hotels in Rome for couples! It’s a scrumptious historic building that’s been beautifully restored. You’ll find it in one of Rome’s most esteemed piazzas. 

See stunning photos of the St. Regis Rome.

17. Romantic Things to do in Rome for couples

This list of romantic things to do in Rome was created by travel bloggers — seasoned travel couples who are always looking for new and unique experiences. 

1. Tour the Colosseum together

By Samantha from Sam Sees World

Rome is a magical city full of romance and beauty. The Colosseum is one of the top Rome attractions and one of the top places to visit in Europe with your partner. 

Rome is a city that eludes romance at every corner –from the cobblestone streets to the colorful buildings. There are historic landmarks everywhere you look and these are some of the best places to visit in Rome. 

No matter where you look, there is always something new to see and discover, and there is no better way to experience new things than with your significant other.

 Check out the Colosseum tour I took.

Although there are many things to see in Rome, one of the top things to do in Rome for couples is to visit the infamous colosseum and explore it together. The colosseum is one of the wonders of the ancient world, so it doesn’t get much better!

The Colosseum is grand and amazing. You’ll be in shock by how huge and well-constructed it is considering it was built almost 2,000 years ago! 

One of the best things to do in Rome is to take a tour of the Colosseum. The best tours offer behind-the-scenes access to the gladiatorial areas as well as premier viewpoints on the upper levels. Having a guide during your visit to the Colosseum can ensure that this is one of the most unforgettable things to do in Rome. 

If you prefer not to splurge on a guided tour, there’s another way to visit the Colosseum and avoid crowds. Consider visiting Rome in January during the offseason. This way, you can have a more intimate experience. You and your partner can explore together and go on your own little adventure. Either way, you will share a moment exploring one of the world’s most magical structures in great company.

2. Book a Night Tour at the Colosseum

By Maria from Europe Up Close

The Colosseum in Rome is one of the most magnificent historic buildings and definitely one of the iconic sights to see in Rome. That also means that it can get quite crowded during the day. However, if you chose to do a night tour at the Colosseum, you can explore this stunning monument with just a select group of other visitors. It may be one of the unusual things to do in Rome, but it creates a more intimate and private experience…something you and your partner will never forget. 

The night tour also usually includes a visit to the Gladiators Quarter down below. Walking in the footsteps of Gladiators is one of the essential Rome activities. This makes for some really great photo opportunities and fun memories at one of the most legendary sites in Rome. 

Grab your spot on the best rated night tour of the Colosseum. 

You’ll learn about how the Roman Emperors used “Panem et Circenses” to entertain the masses and distract them from their political scandals. Also, you’ll find out why this gory spectacle was so popular among the masses. 

As you explore the Colosseum at night, you and your partner will hear stories about the ancient Roman Empire, the vast reach of its power, and the traditions of the Romans. This experience will make your couple’s trip to Rome just a little more extra special. 

The Colosseum is one of the best places to visit in Rome Italy for first-timers, and it’s one of the best things to see in Rome for history lovers.

3. Learn How to Make Pasta

By James from Travel Collecting 

One of the best things to do near Rome is to take a pasta-making class together. You won’t be the only ones in the class, but it is a lovely shared experience. You’ll learn a skill that you can take home and do together at any time. 

Many classes begin with a glass of wine, appetizers, and a chance to meet the other people in the class. So, it’s one of the best activities to do in Rome where you can meet fellow travelers. Then, you’ll be instructed on how to mix pasta dough. You’ll help each other out before moving on to the next step. Finally, you’ll all roll the dough and cut it into the desired shape.

Experience pasta culture in Rome.

Whilst there were other people in the class, you’ll spend most of the class working together as a couple. It’s one of the best team building activities and things to do around Rome. 

After you’ve toiled over this scrumptious meal, you’ll get to enjoy it. One of the most fun activities in Rome is to sit down to a delightful dinner that you made yourself. 

Learn how to make fettuccine in Rome.

It’s a great chance to get to know some of the other people in your group. You can exchange stories of European vacations and tips for alternative things to do in Rome. It’s an amazing experience and a lovely way to spend an evening together on your Roman holiday.

4. Take a Ghost & Mystery Tour 

By Lindsey from Have Clothes, Will Travel

This is one of the quirky and weird things to do in Rome. It’s especially fun for couples! Whether you believe in spirits, or not, taking a Ghost & Mystery tour in Rome is great fun! Ghosts tours are some of the best ways to experience Rome off the beaten path. 

This is a wonderful excuse to wrap your arm around your sweetheart and wander the mystical streets of Rome at night… all while getting a little history lesson from an animated tour guide. 

Tour Rome’s spooky catacombs. 

You’ll be with a smaller group of people, and the streets of Rome are quiet when you begin your journey. You will wander through the Eternal City for about an hour and a half…stopping at various attractions in Rome Italy to talk about brutal deaths, legends, and history. 

Learn about history during your evening stroll through Rome.

Don’t expect any Oujia boards or seances on this tour either. These Ghost & Mystery tours are some of the best things to do in Rome Italy. They’re meant to give you information about some of Rome’s lesser-known and darker historical events! 

While it may not be the most romantic way to visit Rome sites to see, it is certainly a fun and adventurous memory to create together! 

Book Rome’s original ghost tour.

Many tourists have the same experience in Rome as everyone else. They tour the most common things to visit in Rome and don’t do anything unique. A ghost tour is a great way to spice things up!

5. Take a Helicopter Tour over Rome

By Samantha from the Wandering Wanderluster

Rome, the Eternal City, and the city of Eternal love. Like many other cities in Europe, Rome is synonymous with romance. Whether you’re visiting Rome on a romantic weekend away, celebrating an anniversary, or perhaps you’re planning on popping the question...no doubt you’ll be searching for some of the best views in Rome to share a memorable moment. 

While there is a multitude of romantic views in Rome for couples to enjoy (more than you could ever imagine) few will beat the birdseye view of the historic city from the sky on a romantic helicopter ride for two.  

See the Vatican City, the River Tiber, the Villa Borghese, and more from your helicopter window as it soars over the city’s rooftops. This thrilling and luxurious ride will not only surprise your loved one, but it is guaranteed to leave a long-lasting memory because this exclusive experience gives the best view of Rome you could possibly get. No other tour allows you to see all the popular places in Rome in one fell swoop! 

There are a few companies that offer Helicopter rides over Rome, so it’s worth doing your research into what they include and how long the rides are. The experience isn’t for those on a budget, but the views are worth every penny. Helicopters are forbidden to fly over the historical center but this doesn’t in any way lessen the experience or the view.

6. Evening Stroll

By Dhara from It’s Not About the Miles

If you are visiting the Eternal City for the first time, there are definitely many places of interest in Rome that you should consider visiting. But if you are visiting as a couple, you will want to find a few romantic things to savor the ambiance of this beautiful historic city and to create beautiful memories.

Take an evening sightseeing tour through Rome.

One of the cool places to go in Rome at night is the historical core. It’s one of the lesser-known activities. All the monuments are illuminated and there is an electric, magical air about the city. The squares are still lively after dark, and the fountains are lit as well. The top tourist attractions in Rome take on a completely different personality at night.

Start at the beautiful Piazza del Popolo, with its twin churches. This is one of the plazas you must visit in Rome! Walk the vibrant Via dei Corso and stop for gelato at the famous Fatamorgana Gelateria. 

Continue to the Spanish Steps, the Trevi Fountain, the Pantheon, and Piazza Navona, before making your way past the Forum to the Colosseum. These are all the most impressive tourist sites in Rome, but you’ll see them in a completely different light. 

Many people walk the historical core at night, so it’s not quiet by any means. But the electric atmosphere of Rome after dark is a must-experience. This evening stroll is a great way to enjoy each other’s company whilst visiting the must see sights in Rome. It is a memory you will cherish forever!

7. Explore the Victor Emmanuel II Monument

By Chrysoula from Travel Passionate 

The stunning Victor Emmanuel II Monument also is known as the Altare della Patria (‘Altar of the Fatherland’). Visiting the Altar of the Fatherland is one of the must-do things in Rome. 

It’s a grand structure located between the Piazza Venezia and the Capitoline Hill in Rome. It’s a beautiful spot that overlooks the city. The sheer size and beauty of the Victor Emmanuel II Monument will leave you astounded. It has marble steps and reliefs as well as intricate statues and columns.

The monument symbolizes Italian unification and liberation. It features an altar to the Goddess Roma. Also, there’s a shrine to the ‘Italian Unknown Solider’ for those who died in the first world war.

One of the fun things to do in Rome is to see the city from the top of the Victor Emmanuel monument. Visitors can take the elevator of this huge monument to reach the third level for great views. Although, there’s a really incredible vista view on the top floor. This terrace, located on the same level as the chariot statues, features wonderful panoramic views of the city.

You can get to this place by elevator or by climbing the 196 steps to the top. Entry to this level costs a small feel. It’s open every day apart from Christmas Day and New Year’s Day.

This viewpoint is a really romantic spot to watch the sunset over Rome— with views of the capital turning golden in the evening light. It’s one of the top 10 things to do in Rome, and it’s lovely for couples. 

8. Visit Villa Borghese

By Maartje from Sebastiaan and The Orange Backpack

One of the most romantic places to go in Rome is the Villa Borghese Park. The complex includes gardens, historic buildings, museums, and beautiful landscaping. It’s quite central in Rome – not far from the Spanish Steps or the Piazza del Popolo. It’s one of the top things to see in Rome – especially for first-timers. 

The park was constructed by the wealthy and influential Borghese family on the Pincian Hill. Many villas were built in the park for the family as well, including one just for the family’s art collection. Both the art collection and the villa are still there. Now they’re well-known as the Galleria Borghese. Visiting the Borghese Gallery is another one of the must see sites in Rome. We’d recommend you to book your tickets online a few days in advance. Since it’s one of the best places to visit in Rome, you can rarely get a hold on a last-minute ticket at the ticket office.

The best-known artworks in this world-class museum are Bernini’s sculptures. One favorite is of Apollo who falls deeply in love with the beautiful Daphne after being struck by Eros’s love arrows. The sculpture shows the moment Daphne – who doesn’t return Apollo’s love – turns into a tree to escape the desperate Apollo.

Villa Borghese is not just about unrequited love. It’s the perfect place for a romantic stroll within the landscaped park. A picnic within its green oasis is a must do in Rome for couples. This is a hidden gem and an escape from the lively streets of Rome. Besides the Galleria, make sure to walk along the central lake where you can rent a small rowing boat. It’s a beautiful romantic place with a small island with a Roman temple. 

9. Rent a Paddleboat

By Bradley from Dream Big Travel Far

Rome is bursting with romantic opportunities, but if you want to get into the romantic spirit, then head to the beautiful Borghese Lake. Borghese Lake is one of the top places in Rome to get a romantic vibe on. 

This stunning lake is located within the Villa Borghese gardens. It’s easily accessible via Rome’s metro system. Not only is this a beautiful lake to simply wander around, but there is the opportunity to rent out little paddle boats. This is one of the most relaxing things to do in Rome, it will allow you to create your very own romantic scene. 

It’s only a few euros for a 20-minute ride. On a sunny day, this is such a peaceful setting. The price also makes this a budget-friendly romantic activity as well as one of the quirky things to do in Rome.

After your boat ride, you can walk around the gardens and grab some authentic gelato. You may also consider renting out rickshaws for a small fee. It’s one of the largest green places to see near Rome.

This whole area is the perfect place to explore with a loved one. You’re surrounded by beauty and it’s a tranquil escape from Rome’s busy center. 

10. View Rome from a Rooftop

By Kelly from Snap Travel Magic

When the sun sets over Rome points of interest, the city is bathed in the warm black night and the historical landmarks and buildings come to life in the soft, orange glow of the spotlights. For a wonderful, romantic date night, choose to visit a rooftop bar and see the eternal city from the sky. 

Rooftop bars and restaurants are some of the best places to visit near Rome. For the perfect ambiance, make your reservation just before sunset. You’ll be able to see some of the top sights in Rome and watch the city transform. 

See the Trevi Fountain from an exclusive rooftop. 

Enjoy a glass of Italian wine with your birds-eye view, and don’t forget about the amazing Italian food. Many of the rooftop bars are also restaurants. Trying Italian wine is one of the cool things to do in Rome, especially for couples.

There are so many rooftop bars, that you can choose one that fits your budget, palate, and style. 

The Hotel Forum Rooftop offers stunning views of the Roman Forum. This is one of the top places to visit in Rome. There is a garden restaurant as well as a cocktail bar to enjoy. 

You may also consider the Hotel Raphael. It’s is special because they have a variety of vegetarian and organic food options, and it is one of the most well-known and beloved rooftop restaurants in the city. This is another one of the must see places in Rome. 

For something a bit less pricey, try the Terrazza Dei Papi Roofgarden Restaurant. Views include a 360-degree panorama of the city, with a focus on Piazza di Santa Maria Maggiore. The food is affordable and the service is amazing.  

For other restaurants and nighttime activities in Rome check out some of the best things to do at night in Rome.

11. Stroll through the Giardino degli Aranci 

By Anda from Travel for a While

Giardino degli Aranci is the affectionate nickname for Savello Park up on the Aventine Hill. It’s a rather small public garden by Santa Sabina on the Aventine church. This is one of the lesser-known Rome tourist attractions. 

Entering the garden, the median avenue will take you directly to the Belvedere. There’s a terrace above the Tiber that’s a great spot for views and photos of Rome sightseeing spots from above.

The garden is open every day from 7:00 AM until sunset and is one of the free things to do in Rome. It’s a must see in Rome because it gives travelers a much-needed break from the hustle and bustle of city life.

While it’s one of the prettiest places to see in Rome, many first time visitors don’t venture here. It’s a quiet place where locals come to relax, talk, and enjoy the stunning views over Rome. 

A short walk uphill from the Circus Maximus will take you to this oasis in the city center.

Hurrying everywhere to see all the Rome places to visit can be stressful and far from romantic. A little pause to spend time together in a charming garden can be the perfect break.

Walkthrough the orange trees, in the shadow of the umbrella pines, find a good place to sit and unwind while taking in the incredible view.

12. Visit the Spanish Steps 

By Kate from Our Escape Clause

Popular for decades with fictional and real-life couples alike, perusing the Spanish Steps at the Piazza di Spagna is definitely one of the romantic things to do in Rome Italy.

Though you can no longer sit on the steps–the practice was recently banned–it’s still worth climbing the 135 steps to admire the views and to check out the Trinita dei Monti Church that sits at the top. After the climb, you’ll be rewarded with sweeping panoramic views. It’s one of the best Rome romantic things to do.

While you’re in and around the Piazza di Spagna, consider visiting the Keats-Shelley Memorial House. It’s located directly next to the steps. 

This is a small, quiet, museum and a memorial to the English Romantic poets of the 19th century (particularly John Keats, who died there). The museum looks over the Spanish Steps and the Piazza di Spagna, offering unique and stunning views of both.

Cafe Greco, Rome’s oldest cafe, is also located in the piazza. You’ll also find the popular Babington’s Tea Rooms. Luxury–though not remotely budget-friendly–designers like Valentino, Versace, and Chanel also have storefronts in the Piazza di Spagna. Shopping here can be another one of the unforgettable couple things to do in Rome.

Even with limited time, it’s still worth the effort for couples to visit the popular Spanish Steps–but to see them empty (and arguably at their most romantic), a solid Rome travel tip is to consider showing up in the very early morning or late at night! Visiting this place late in the evening is one of the incredible things to do in Rome at night. 

13. Watch the Sunset from the Pincio Viewpoint

By Maja from Away with Maja

 If you’re looking for a bit of romance on a budget, watching a sunset together should be on your Rome bucket list! One of the best viewpoints of the city is Pincio or the top of Pincian Hill. You can find it near the Piazza del Popolo. 

This is one of the best places to go in Rome, and the views over the city stretch to St. Peter’s in the Vatican. It’s a legendary spot and one of the uncommon tourist places in Rome.

There are quite a lot of stairs to climb to get up to the top, but it’s worth it! Come here at sunset to share a special moment with your loved one—watch the city turn to gold as the sun goes down. 

For additional ambiance, you may consider bringing a bottle of wine to share and a box of chocolates. This is one of the unique things to do in Rome that isn’t only for locals. 

Rome isn’t necessarily a cheap destination. Many of the best places to see in Rome require entrance fees or tours to get the full experience…but catching a sunset with a view over the city is completely free. 

The viewpoint is attached to lovely gardens that you can wander through. It’s one of the must see things in Rome! 

Whether you’re visiting top sites in Rome for the first time and wanting to get the best views in the city, or just looking for a budget activity with a splash of romance —watching a Roman sunset from Pincio is a must.

14. Throw a Coin in the Trevi Fountain

By Ivan from Mind the Travel

For traveling couples, a visit to one of the best sites in Rome is a must. We must give thanks to Fellini’s Dolce Vita for this imposing Baroque masterpiece — the Trevi fountain is now one of the top places to see in Rome. It’s an iconic landmark that depicts the sea god Oceanus along with Tritons, sea horses, and numerous statues. 

You may want to come here in the afternoon when the fountain is illuminated. Discover the stunning beauty of the fountain and get in a romantic mood by watching the running water glowing from LED lighting. It’s one of the most visited historical sites in Rome & one of the most popular free attractions in Rome.

If you travel a couple, don’t forget to toss three coins into the Trevi Fountain. Legend has it that by throwing a coin into it you ensure that you’ll return to Rome one day. 

Two coins ensures a new romance, while three coins guarantee true love and marriage. If you want any of these wishes to come true, use your right hand to throw the coins over your left shoulder. 

As you wander the narrow streets you’ll hear the fountain before you see it. Each year, 8-9 million tourists make their way here to marvel at this famous landmark. That said, it’s difficult to take photos without any people in them. Make sure to visit the fountain once during the day and then again at night (or early in the morning) to take stunning photos.

The Trevi Fountain is one of the most amazing things to see in Rome at night!

15. Visit the Rome Forum Lookout

By Wendy from The Nomadic Vegan

There’s a Renaissance square designed by Michelangelo at the top of the Capitoline Hill (“Campidoglio” in Italian). It’s one of the best Rome sightseeing places and it is already beautiful in and of itself. It’s definitely worth the climb. 

Most visitors to Rome don’t realize that an even more beautiful view awaits them just around the corner. If you’re looking for one of the adventurous things to do in Rome, you’ll try to find it.

From the top of the staircase, walk around the right side of the building that’s straight in front of you. That’s Rome’s city hall, which is built on top of the Tabularium. It’s where the official records of ancient Rome were kept — one of the unusual places to visit in Rome.

To the side of the Tabularium, you’ll find a lookout point with sweeping views over the ruins of the ancient Roman Forum. It’s especially romantic when viewed at dusk, just as the floodlights are starting to light up the ruins. This is one of the best Rome things to do at night.

From here, you can see across the Forum to the Colosseum at the other end. Some other impressive structures to look for include the Arch of Septimius Severus and the Temple of Saturn. The Temple of Saturn has eight columns of its portico still intact. It’s one of the Rome must see attractions!

Once you’ve soaked in the view and snapped a few selfies, head back down the hill and enjoy dinner and one of the many great restaurants in central Rome.

16. Visit the Caffarelli Terrace & Café 

By Annalisa from Travel Connect Experience

On the top floor of the Caffarelli Palace, just a few steps from the main entrance of the Capitoline Museums lies one of the most romantic cafés in Rome. This café is a gem hidden right at the heart of the historic center — it’s discreetly tucked away near some of the most famous sights in Rome.

Even if it’s the main coffee bar inside a popular museum, you’ll never find it crowded. Most visitors don’t realize that the backside of the palace hosting the museum has a café with one of the most beautiful views in Rome. It isn’t one of the most popular places to visit in Rome, and that’s what makes this experience all the more special. 

The best news is that you don’t even need to visit the museum to grab a coffee or a glass of wine at the bar on the Caffarelli Terrace: they are actually two separate spaces. 

To get there, climb the stairs to the Capitoline Hill Square. Then, immediately keep right till you reach the Piazzale Caffarelli. On the side of the Caffarelli Palace, a stair will bring you right to the terrace. The outdoor tables will let you enjoy the view throughout your visit, and prices are totally affordable, either you just drink or get something to eat. 

17. Dinner at the Piazza Navona

Written by Helga, from ShegoWandering 

A romantic evening in Rome can’t be spent in a better place than the Piazza Navona! It’s a truly wonderful couple’s experience to share a lovely dinner in a traditional restaurant. 

But where to do it? Piazza Navona is one of the most charming squares in Rome, and there are plenty of restaurants to choose from. 

If you’re looking for something truly romantic, with amazing dishes, the Ristorante Mamma Roma should be your first choice. This restaurant is located just outside the piazza. It’s traditional, yet elegant. This place offers up amazing dishes in a quaint atmosphere. 

If you’re looking for a charming Italian street, with a restaurant that has outdoor tables with stunning views… check out Ristorante Pasquino. It’s on a typical Italian cobblestoned street. Share a great pizza under the sky of Rome.

After dinner, you can always go for a walk and enjoy the vibes of the Piazza Navona. As a dessert, you can get some great gelato from one of the best gelato shops around. Stop by the IceCrome. It’s located just steps away from Ristorante Pasquino, on Via del Governo Vecchio!

Next stop Venice? Make sure to check out our Romantic Guide to Venice.