Summary
Rome is an absolute beauty of a city to visit, with the secret spots in Rome actually a testament to that.
It’s not very often when the hype around a city is reflected in the reality of exploring it, however, Rome is one of those few cities that doesn’t just match up with the hype, it far surpasses it.
1.) Pyramid of Cestius
This pyramid is particularly special because it’s Europe’s only ancient pyramid. Most people’s thoughts tend to travel to Egypt or Mexico when they think of pyramids, but as it turns out, Rome has a 2,000-year-old pyramid built as a tomb for Gaius Cestius, a Roman senator and general.
Located on Via Raffaele Persichetti, the pyramid stands around 36 meters high and 29.6 meters wide, making it quite an impressive sight to see in Rome.
You can now go inside the pyramid (after renovations ended in 2015), though access is limited to specific days of the week; it’s open on the 3rd and 4th Saturday and Sunday of every month (closed in August).
This all means that the demand is high, so plan ahead if you wish to visit.
2.) Michaelangelo’s Moses
Basilica di San Pietro in Vincoli is one of those churches in Rome you could easily overlook.
Rome has an abundance of beautiful churches, and you could easily spend a week here and feel like you have barely scratched the surface. Nevertheless, this is one church you should definitely not miss when you’re in Rome.
Michaelangelo, one of Italy’s most celebrated artists, has created amazing pieces like David (located in Florence). However, in this beautiful church, you can witness his stunning work—Moses—almost all to yourself.
Even during the height of summer, while people flock to the Sistine Chapel and the Colosseum, this church remains relatively quiet, which is impressive considering the art it houses.
So, be sure to add this secret spot in Rome to your itinerary.
3.) The ancient ruins of Ostia Antica
Rome boasts countless ancient ruins, but none quite compare to Ostia Antica. This site is believed to be Rome’s first colony and is an impressive destination in its own right.
It’s important to note that Ostia Antica is not located in the heart of Rome but rather in the suburb of Ostia. This might explain why many tourists miss out on this incredible site.
Wandering through Ostia Antica evokes a similar feeling to visiting Pompeii; the setting and ambiance are remarkable.
4.) Santa Maria del Popolo
If you’re in search of some of the greatest art not just in Rome, but in all of Italy, then this unassuming church deserves your attention.
Its walls are adorned with masterpieces from renowned Italian artists like Raphael, Caravaggio, and Bernini—names even those without an art background would surely recognize.
The best part? This church is conveniently located near some of the city’s most stunning attractions, making it an easy stop from the Spanish Steps or Villa Borghese.
Entering the church and witnessing the extraordinary art here reinforces just how special Rome truly is.
It’s a city filled with beauty, often found where you least expect it.
5.) Palazzo Doria Pamphilj
This hidden gem is another remarkable site in Rome that remains unnoticed by many tourists.
Owned by a prominent family, the Doria Pamphili family, this opulent palace serves as an art gallery featuring remarkable works that reflect the grandeur of its past.
Once you navigate a tour, you can explore its stunning staterooms and experience one of Italy’s most beautiful locales, often overlooked by other visitors.
6.) Capuchin Crypt
This crypt, located underneath the Santa Maria della Concezione dei Cappuccini (near Piazza Barberini), contains the remains of over 3,700 Capuchin friars.
Although it may come across as morbid, similar to the catacombs of Paris, it is an essential stop in the city.
7.) Largo di Torre Argentina (where Julius Caesar was stabbed)
We arrived at these ruins, gelato in hand (it was a sweltering day in Rome), completely unaware of the historical significance of this location.
Largo di Torre Argentina is believed to be the site where Julius Caesar was assassinated and was once home to four remarkable Roman temples.
You can still observe the remnants of these four temples, but more recently, Largo di Torre Argentina has become a sanctuary for stray cats.
Italy enforces a no-kill policy for strays, with volunteers caring for and sterilizing the cats that have made this unique spot their home.
8.) Piazzale Giuseppe Garibaldi on Gianicolo Hill
For breathtaking views of Rome, this is the place to be.
We happened to visit just as the sun began to set, creating the perfect end to a day of exploring the city.
Even though it isn’t close to the main attractions, and other locations in Rome offer stunning views (like the orange garden on Aventine Hill), if you’re seeking beautiful views away from the crowds, this spot is a wonderful choice.
Visiting Rome? Here are the places you HAVE to visit.
