10 Hidden Gems in Rome: Secret Spots & Local Favorites Off the Beaten Path
- Theresa Myers
- Aug 11
- 3 min read
Looking for hidden gems in Rome? Skip the tourist traps and explore unique, non-touristy experiences that most visitors miss. Sure, the Colosseum and Vatican are stunning, but the real magic of Rome lies in its tucked-away corners—where local life, history, and flavor meet.
From secret rooftop bars to underground restaurants and street art neighborhoods, here are 10 unforgettable things to do in Rome that will take your trip to the next level.
Peek Through the Keyhole on Aventine Hill 🔑
Want a million-dollar view with zero crowds? Head to the Knights of Malta keyhole on Aventine Hill. Look through it and you’ll see a perfectly framed view of St. Peter’s Basilica, lined up through a garden archway. It’s poetic—and free.
Eat Dinner in a Wine Cellar Older Than the Colosseum 🍷
At Spirito di Vino in Trastevere, you can enjoy authentic Roman dishes in a wine cellar that’s over 2,000 years old. Yes, it predates the Colosseum. Bonus: The food and wine are just as memorable as the history.
Climb Rome’s Only Pyramid ⛰️
Bet you didn’t expect to see a pyramid in Rome! The Pyramid of Cestius, built in 12 BC, is one of the city’s most unusual landmarks—and you can go inside on guided tours. It’s located in the Testaccio neighborhood, next to a serene non-Catholic cemetery.
See a 17th-Century Optical Illusion at Palazzo Spada 👁️
Tucked inside the Palazzo Spada, you’ll find a hallway that looks about 100 feet long—but it’s just over 25 feet. Created by Baroque architect Borromini, it’s an early mind-bending illusion long before Instagram made it cool.
Watch a Movie on an Island 🎬
In the summer, Isola Tiberina becomes a dreamy open-air cinema. Locals flock here for food, drinks, and indie films under the stars. It’s one of Rome’s most romantic—and underrated—experiences.
Take a Stroll Through Villa Doria Pamphili
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Rome’s largest landscaped park is still a hidden gem. Located just west of Trastevere, Villa Doria Pamphili is perfect for a picnic, bike ride, or peaceful escape from the bustle of the city center.
Get Insider Access to the Vatican Pharmacy 💊
Founded in 1874, the Vatican Pharmacy is Europe’s most exclusive pharmacy—usually only open to clergy and Vatican residents. However, some private Vatican tours include a sneak peek. Ask your guide if they can help you get in!
Explore the Street Art of Ostiense 🎨
Want a modern side of Rome? Head to the Ostiense district, where you’ll find massive murals, bold colors, and one of the city’s coolest underground art scenes. Grab a cappuccino and walk the open-air gallery streets.
Toss a Coin at the Fountain of the Turtles 🐢
Forget the crowds at the Trevi Fountain. The elegant Fontana delle Tartarughe (Fountain of the Turtles) offers charm, history, and peace. Built in the 1500s, it’s one of Rome’s most beautiful small fountains.
Sip Cocktails Above the Trevi Fountain
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This one’s pure magic. The Trevi Rooftop Bar is hidden just above the famous fountain and offers unobstructed views with none of the chaos below. It’s one of the best secret spots in Rome to grab a drink, take a breath, and feel like you’re in on something special.
✨ Make Rome Your Own—with Myers Tours
At Myers Tours, we believe your trip should go beyond the brochure. That’s why we create custom European itineraries filled with local experiences, hidden gems, and personalized service. Whether you’re joining a group tour or planning a private, chauffeured trip—we take care of every detail.
📍 Destinations we specialize in: Rome, Florence, Dublin, Edinburgh, Prague, and beyond.
🧭 Services: Group tours, private drivers, themed trips, and white-labeled options for travel agents.
📅 Ready to Plan Your Trip to Rome?
Let’s uncover the secrets of the Eternal City—together.
Don’t just visit Rome—experience it like a local.
Let Myers Tours be your guide to the unexpected.
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