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If you’re planning a trip to Rome for the first time, chances are you’ll want to visit some free museums and landmarks.
But if you’re looking for hidden gems in Rome, you’ll find there are many cute neighborhoods, architecture and magical gardens you really can’t miss out on.
There are plenty of cool things to do when traveling solo to Rome, and exploring this open-air museum off the beaten path is a great way to immerse yourself in the culture.
Not only that, but you might come across new places to have breakfast and brunch in town, or new secret rooftop restaurants you wouldn’t have thought existed in such an antique city!
Between the stunning Villa Farnesina and the Catacombs of St. Callixtus, and the colorful Piccola Londra, here are some of the best hidden gems in Rome!
These Are The Best Hidden Gems in Rome and Secret Places to Have on Your Bucket List
In this guide, you’ll discover areas of Rome you might not have seen before – even if you’ve traveled to Italy in the past.
Grab your most comfortable shoes – Rome’s cobblestone streets are unforgiving, your camera, and discover magical gardens, pretty views and some of the coolest free things to do in Rome!
Hidden Gems in Rome: Villa Farnesina
There are lots of beautiful villas in Rome, and one of the most famous is Villa Farnesina, which you’ll find close to Vatican City.
The villa houses some of Raphael’s most breathtaking artwork – the same Raphael who painted the Transfiguration and the Sistine Chapel.
Surprisingly, Villa Farnesina is one of the most uncrowded places to visit in town, despite how incredible the artwork and architecture inside are.
Portraits of cherubs line the ceiling, while marble drapes the walls – if you’re an art fanatic looking to experience the most magical places in Rome, then a visit here is a must!
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Best Hidden Gems in Rome: Palazzo Doria Pamphilj
Though the average tour here will only take about two hours, it’s easy to get lost in time at the Palazzo Doria Pamphilj.
It hosts one of the most secret gardens in Rome, and everything about the palace located on Via del Corso screams opulence.
Intense, detailed, gorgeous paintings line the walls and ceiling and gold accents await you at every turn.
You’re here two steps away from one of the best places to go shopping in Rome, and really take a step back in time when observing the hundreds of paintings in the private collection!
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Hidden Gems in Rome: Capuchin Crypt of Santa Maria Della Concezione
The Capuchin Crypt of Santa Maria Della Concezione will either scare you or leave you in awe – and honestly, both are appropriate responses.
There are a few crypts and catacombs in Rome which are definitely worth a visit, and this one is probably one of the most famous.
Back in the 1600s, Capuchin Friars were ordered by Cardinal Antonio Barberini to bring the remains of their fellow deceased friars to Santa Maria Della Concezione so that they may all be laid to rest in the same place.
There are around 4,000 skulls, legs, pelvises and mummified friars in the crypt, which is as much a hidden gem as it is impressive.
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Best Hidden Gems in Rome: Quartiere Coppede
If you’re ever looking for free things to do in Rome at night, pop by the Quartiere Coppedè – it’s an architecture lover’s dream!
The Palazzo del Ragno (Spider Palace) is one of the buildings you have to check out when you’re in this unusual neighborhood.
The large decorative spider on top of the building makes it a perfect photo spot, and in fact, what makes the buildings in Quartiere Coppede unique is that they all have something artistic on their facades.
The Fountain of the Frogs, in the middle of this tiny – yet detail-packed – neighborhood is another one of the highlights of this place, which mixes Art Nouveau, baroque and medieval sculptures and frescoes.
The Quartiere Coppedè is only really known to locals, and even then, so if you’re looking for the best hidden gems in Rome, that’s definitely a spot to have on your bucket list.
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Secret Places in Rome: Palatine Museum
Earlier in this article, I mentioned that, while visiting Rome, a lot of people want to see the big historical sites – the Colosseum, the Pantheon, the Trevi Fountain…
That’s why it’s so surprising that many people walk right by Palatine Hills, which is largely considered to be the birthplace of the Roman Empire.
Located on Palatine Hill is the Palatine Museum, which takes you through different eras dating as far back as the 7th century BC.
In Rooms I to III, you’ll see stones from the Paleolithic era.
During this period, the first chipped stone tools were created, making looking at these giant stones all the more magnificent.
In Room IV, you’ll see sprawling lawns and gorgeous architecture that houses an altar used in Archaic times, whereas in Room V, you’ll see beautiful marbleized works of art.
This is just a taste of what you’ll find here.
And with the Colosseum being nearby, taking a detour to the Palatine Museum is a great way to experience secret spots in Rome and still a bit of mainstream.
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Hidden Gems in Rome: Tiber Island
Tiber Island is one of the most unique hidden gems in Trastevere – actually, it’s located on the border of the Trastevere neighborhood.
Shaped like a boat, the Tiber Island (Isola Tiberina) used to be used for medical purposes, and during summer nights, it’s a great spot to go walking.
One of the main attractions on Tiber Island is the Church of San Bartolomeo, as well as two of the most ancient bridges in Rome – the Ponte Fabricio and Ponte Cestio.
These bridges are not just attractive to lovers of Ancient Rome history, but they offer some of the most stunning views of Rome as well.
In the evening, Tiramisu in Trastevere, one of the best places to get delicious tiramisu in Rome, is open until late and will provide creamy desserts to enjoy while walking around.
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Secret Places in Rome: The Basilica of St. Mary of the Angels
The Basilica of St. Mary of the Angels probably looks exactly how you’d expect it to when hearing its beautiful name.
Considered the mother of all Roman churches, The Basilica of St. Mary of the Angels plays a significant role in the history of Christianity.
There are many, many beautiful churches and basilicas in Rome, and from the historical ruins to the incredible Renaissance artwork, this one will take your breath away.
The reality is that you are truly standing in a special spot because one of the main architects here was Michaelangelo himself.
Like a lot of the stunning Roman churches, it’s completely free to visit and will give you a bit more insight into Christianity and history!
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Hidden Gems in Rome: Michelangelo’s Moses
While we’re speaking of Michaelangelo, you should visit Michaelangelo’s Moses.
When visiting Rome, many people opt to visit the famed Sistine Chapel, and of course, you definitely should because it’s one of the greatest paintings ever created.
However, many tourists overlook another one of Michaelangelo’s masterpieces – the statue of Moses.
Located in the Basilica of Saint Peter in Chains (San Pietro in Vincoli, close to Via Cavour), you’ll stumble upon this massive, 8-foot marble sculpture of the biblical figure, Moses as he was handed the Commandments on Mount Sinai.
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Secret Places in Rome: Monti Neighborhood
One of the prettiest neighborhoods in Rome is Monti, and it’s not only filled with restaurants, but also history and even shops!
The streets curve tightly between the houses, giving you access to trendy shops, outdoor dining, and picturesque views of Italian architecture.
While you’re visiting the Colosseum, why not look for some more nontouristy things to do in Rome and head over to the Monti neighborhood?
It’s located really close and tends to be super quiet.
The buildings are all tall and painted shades of beige, orange, and yellow, so the city is literally bursting with true, authentic Italian beauty.
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Hidden Gems in Rome: Palazzo Massimo alle Terme
What makes Palazzo Massimo allle Terme so great is that it’s a showcase for a large collection of classical art, sculptures, mosaics, and jewellery.
This is one of the most magical places in Rome due to the sheer beauty of the artwork you’ll see as you’re making your way through this museum.
If you’re looking for a great place to admire history through gorgeous artwork, then you need to check out this one-of-a-kind museum.
Indeed, if you’re on the hunt for the best hidden gems in Rome, this architectural beauty is a place to visit!
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Secret Places in Rome: Rome Cavalieri
This is one of the most gorgeous hotels we’ve ever set our eyes on, and the pinnacle of class if you’re looking for places to take your other half on a romantic date in Rome!
Not only does Rome Cavalieri feature some of the most beautiful suites we’ve ever laid our eyes on, but there’s also a private art collection for you to explore while staying here.
On top of all of that, this hotel is home to La Pergola, Rome’s only 3-Michelin star restaurant – one we’ve mentioned on The Working Line in the past.
Plus, when you stay here, you have access to an incredible panoramic view of the entire city of Rome.
How can you not just fall in love with that?
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Hidden Gems in Rome: Bramante’s Tempietto
Discovering Rome off the beaten path is an exquisite adventure which helps you unravel gems of history, architecture and art.
And that’s what we have here with the Tempietto del Bramante, located in the courtyard of San Pietro in Montorio, a church located within the city.
Bramante’s Tempietto is a commemorative tomb that is considered a masterpiece of architecture from the High Renaissance period, one of the most important in Italy.
This gorgeous tomb is circular, and features pillars and ornate statues to mark the place where St. Peter was crucified.
Another one of the best hidden gems in Rome, the Caffetteria at the Chiostro del Bramante, is located close and makes for one of the most colorful and instagrammable cafes in town – a must visit!
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Secret Places in Rome: Janiculum Terrace
One of the best free rooftops in Rome is the Janiculum Hill terrace, from which you can enjoy ancient Roman architecture, giant sculptures, and a beautiful play on lights at night.
This one is probably less of a hidden gem, but for whoever is visiting Rome on a budget, you’ll love the view here.
Completely free, the Janiculum Hill terrace makes for a perfect photo spot – memory or camera, the memory will linger.
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Hidden Gems in Rome: Teatro Marcello
When you’re walking around Rome, you’ll come across the Teatro Marcello and if you’re anything like us, you’ll wonder why there is a mini Colosseum just minutes from the real deal.
Well, actually, the Teatro Marcello is located on the way to the Bocca Della Verità, another one of the best hidden gems in Rome, as well as secret chapels and churches.
This ancient theater was built at the tail end of the Roman Republic and was the largest and most important theater in Ancient Rome.
In fact, it is said that the Teatro Marcello was able to hold anywhere between 11,000 to 20,000 people at a time, and the ruins are well-preserved enough that you can really enjoy the sight.
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Secret Places in Rome: Church of Saint Agnes
If you want to experience one of the most beautifully designed churches in all of Rome, then you need to check out the Church of Saint Agnes.
A gorgeous church on the outside, and a wonderfully ornate building on the inside, this church almost feels like an art museum as you walk through and admire the many different sculptures that adorn the interior.
Whoever loves architecture will fall in love with the many churches of Rome, and that of Saint Agnes has got to be on your bucket list!
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Hidden Gems in Rome: The Ostiense and Garbatella Neighborhoods (Street Art)
Ostiense and Garbatella are two of the best areas for street art in Rome, and both feature some incredible murals and stunning architecture.
These neighborhoods have been using their buildings to showcase art for over 100 years, and as you walk around, you’ll notice large, sprawling murals taking up the entire sides of buildings, such as colorful faces and larger-than-life fish.
Because those areas are so eclectic, they are among our favorite non touristy things to do in Rome – and the art pieces always change!
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Hidden Gems in Rome: Appian Way
The Appian Way is quite possibly the oldest road in all of Rome, and was one of the most important roads for the Roman Republic as it was used to communicate and transport everything from goods to troops.
It was also the start of the many roads that the Romans would build to expand across Italy, which eventually led to the expression, “All roads lead to Rome.”
This is a great historical landmark worth checking out, especially if you’re looking for free things to do in Rome.
While it was significant in its own time, it’s become one of the great hidden gems of the city, and now a perfect spot to go hiking.
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Secret Places in Rome: Laghetto dell’Eur
One of the best places to see the cherry blossom in Rome is the Laghetto dell’Eur, an artificial lake bordered by clean, crisp nature.
There are lots of places to go hiking around Rome, but when you find a really cute park, with water and greenery right in the heart of the city, you learn to enjoy it!
This park features lush plants and many different beautiful water games that make this one of the most scenic gardens we’ve ever walked through.
Waterfalls in Rome are scarce, but the Laghetto dell’Eur is one of the only places you’ll find them – pop by, you won’t regret it!
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Hidden Gems in Rome: Domus Aurea
One of the most magical places in Rome, the Domus Aurea was at one point the residence of Emperor Nero, who ordered it after the Great Fire of Rome in 64 AD.
This was one of the most ostentatious palaces ever built for a Roman emperor, and is now a place where you can tour and experience the history for yourself.
Even with it being nearly 2,000 years old, you can still see the grandeur of the Domus Aurea, from its ornate ceilings to its multiple domes.
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Hidden Gems in Rome: Trastevere
Is Trastevere really a hidden gem?
Well, it offers some of the cutest streets in Rome, and has is own set of hidden gems, actually.
The Basilica di Santa Maria in Trastevere is one to visit for beautiful paintings, sculptures and an ornate ceiling that will take your breath away.
There are many things to do in Trastevere.
Once you’re done with the Basilica, check out the Porta Portese Market, the Botanical Garden and its Japanese garden, and Caffè Trastevere for some of the most authentic pastries in Rome.
OVS, a few minutes away from the heart of Trastevere, is perfect if you’re looking for places to go clothes shopping in Rome – with makeup, accessories and shoes, it’s a really complete store to check out!
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Secret Places in Rome: Park of the Aqueducts
One of the great free things to do in Rome is to visit the Park of the Aqueducts.
It’s a public park where you can see remnants of the Roman Aqueduct system that was put into place by the Roman Republic.
Many locals spend afternoons and evenings in the Parco degli Acquedotti, which you can reach by bike too.
This is a great way to experience a piece of history and admire the engineering skills it took to build aqueducts during the peak of the Roman Empire.
While you’re here, you can also visit the Appian Way, one of Rome’s oldest and most important roads!
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Secret Places in Rome: Rooftop at the Altare della Patria
The Altare della Patria is one of the most famous landmarks in Rome, a large monument designed to pay tribute to Victor Emmanuel II.
At the top of this monument is a terrace, from which you can take in breathtaking views of the city.
The building in itself is not a hidden gem, but few people know about the viewpoint.
The only way to get to the terrace is by taking an elevator up, and while it’s not free, it’s definitely something to do if you want to see incredible views of Rome!
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Secret Places in Rome: Park Caffarella
Park Caffarella is located close to the Appian Way and dates back to ancient Rome, when a large estate known as the Triopius occupied the area.
This was the home of Herodes Atticus, Roman senator, and the current name of the park stems from the Caffarelli family who owned a farm on the property in the 16th century.
In the 20th century, Park Caffarella was incorporated into the park of the Appian Way and has been considered a historical landmark ever since.
Now, you get to explore the area and be surrounded by large and lush green landscapes and charming historical ruins – the perfect spot to relax!
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Secret Places in Rome: The Lock of the Knights of Malta
The Aventino Keyhole is one of the most unique things to do in Rome, and if you come early enough, you’ll be able to avoid tourists checking it out.
Take a look through the keyhole and you’ll see a perfectly framed view of St. Peter’s Basilica.
It’s something that has to be experienced in person, because it’s literally not something you see every day and the whole area around the Aventino Keyhole is fit for a relaxing stroll.
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Hidden Gems in Rome: Via Margutta
You’d be amazed at how such a small stretch of road can pack so much history into it!
Via Margutta was probably made most famous by the 1953 movie Roman Holiday, but the different artists and musicians who lived on this street also participate in making it a special street.
Fellini, Puccini, Wagner, Liszt, Debussy, Stravinsky, and even Pablo Picasso all took residence on this little street, and with the cobblestones and authentic Italian architecture, it’s a perfect photo spot.
Via Margutta is located between Villa Borghese, the Flaminio neighborhood (one of the poshest neighborhoods in Rome) and Monti, so a walk around will provide all the sights you need!
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Secret Places in Rome: Vatican Necropolis
The Vatican Necropolis isn’t as famous as other museums in the area, such as the Sistine Chapel but honestly, that’s kind of… sad.
Located no more than 12 meters beneath St. Peter’s Basilica, this area exposes you to the burial grounds that were once hidden beneath Vatican City, and is also believed to be the original tomb of St. Peter.
Though this place can be pretty eerie, there’s beauty in its exploration.
To be so close to history in this way is very touching and gives you a brand new appreciation for life and what life must have been like back then.
The brick walls and network of tombs are something you have to experience for yourself; words really don’t do it justice!
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Hidden Gems in Rome: Catacombs of St. Callixtus
The Catacombs of St. Callixtus are eerie in a beautiful kind of way, since they are one of the largest underground burial sites in the city.
In fact, approximately 500,000 people are buried here, including at least 16 popes.
Once inside, you’ll be surrounded by gray stone and long, winding hallways unlike anything you’ve ever experienced.
This is one final resting place that is worth exploring the next time you’re in Rome – and clearly one of the true blue, off the beaten path landmarks!
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Secret Places in Rome: The Pincio Water Clock
While exploring Rome off the beaten path, you may find yourself at the Borghese Gardens, where you’ll stumble upon the Pincio Water Clock.
Built back in the 19th century by a Dominican Friar, the clock is actually operated by water.
It stands tall between towering palm trees and moss-covered rock formations and you wouldn’t expect to see it there.
Looking at it makes you feel like you’ve somehow entered a fairytale world, beautiful and whimsical.
And since Villa Borghese and the Pincio are two of the best spots to see sunset in Rome, that’s one more reason to check out the area!
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Hidden Gems in Rome: Passetto del Biscione
It’s said that even the locals tend to overlook the Passetto del Biscione, making it truly one of the best hidden gems in Rome.
This passageway is very old and in fact, was used to lead into the Theater of Pompey.
As you stroll through the passage, you’ll be greeted with a massive mural of the sky and a cherub hanging above you.
Though it only takes a few minutes to explore, it’s one of the many free things to do in Rome that take you off the beaten path.
Also, if you love finding beautiful ceilings and secret passageways in Rome, there are a lot – including one close to Castel Sant Angelo, with a painted starry sky!
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Best Hidden Gems in Rome: Palazzo Spada’s Borromini Perspective Gallery
Located just a few steps away from Campo de’ Fiori, you will find Palazzo Spada, another one of the most secret places in Rome.
This is a palazzo from the Renaissance era named after Cardinal Spada, purchased by the same man in 1632.
Like many famous buildings in Rome, Palazzo Spada used the architect Borromini, and the architecture inside is quite incredible.
The small art gallery has four rooms with some of the arts and crafts of Caravaggio, Titan, Reubens, Brueghel the Elder, and some rare works of Artemisia Gentileschi (the first woman to study at the Art Institute of Florence in the 17th century)!
Of course, most people pop by to check the phenomenal work of Borromini in his famous optical illusion stairs.
It’s the museum’s highlight – think of an internal garden courtyard with a forced perspective trick that makes the corridor look much longer than it is.
Perfect if you’re looking for cute photo spots in Rome!
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Best Hidden Gems in Rome: Pyramid of Cestius
Close to Ostiense and Garbatella (two of the top spots for street art in Rome), you have the Pyramid of Cestius.
The Pyramid of Cestius was built as a tomb for Gaius Cestius, Roman senator and general, and the 120-foot pyramid was completed in only 330 days.
This beauty is Europe’s only ancient Pyramid, and easily accessible from the subway station Piramide.
The entire area is really cute, and you can reach Ostia Lido Beach in a short time from Piramide, should you wish to see some water.
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Best Hidden Gems in Rome: Galleria Sciarra
A few minutes away from Trevi Fountain, you will fill Galleria Sciarra – it’s absolutely gorgeous!
In the late 19th century, the wealthy Sciarra family commissioned the opulent courtyard, and from colorful murals painted by Giuseppe Cellini to its beautiful iron ceiling, it offers amazing details.
Everything here breathes art.
When the sunlight takes a peek into the courtyard, it illuminates every detail in those frescoes, making it a glowy spectacle of lights and color combined.
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Best Hidden Gems in Rome: Santa Maria in Ara Coeli
Santa Maria in Ara Coeli is located on the Capitoline Hill, close to the Altare della Patria, and is in my opinion one of the most beautiful churches in Rome.
Whether you’re looking for ornate ceilings, paintings or sculptures, you can easily spend a full hour or more in this church, well-preserved and as incredible as ever.
In the Middle Ages, Santa Maria in Ara Coeli was set as a gathering place for the Roman Senate, however, the place we see nowadays is older than the 14th-century building we know.
Indeed, the original church dates back to the 6th Century and is mostly known for its frescos by Pincturicchio, an early Renaissance artist as well as its large nave and 22 granite columns separating the aisles.
Everywhere you look in the Santa Maria in Ara Coeli church, there is something to discover.
And it’s completely free to visit!
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Best Hidden Gems in Rome: Church Santo Stefano Rotondo
Santo Stefano Rotondo is a round church located on Coelian Hill, one of Rome’s seven hills, and pretty close to the Colosseum.
There are lots of hidden gems near the Colosseum, and what is crazy is that most people visit the other hills, basilicas and churches closer to the center of Rome.
That’s how Santo Stefano Rotondo is quite empty most of the time, giving you time to wander around and truly appreciate the views.
From the shape to the architecture and sculptures, this is one of the most beautiful – and secret places to visit in Rome for couples, kids, and solo travelers.
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Hidden Gems of Rome: Best Views in Rome
Best Hidden Gems in Rome: Botanical Gardens
The Orto Botanico (Botanical Gardens of Rome) is one of the best hidden gems in Rome if you’re looking for really cute, quaint, small gardens.
The Botanical Gardens are split into several gardens; a Rose Garden, a Japanese garden, a bamboo forest, a vineyard…
All making it one of the most romantic places to visit with your other half – or on your own if you’d rather discover new places to write in Rome.
You’re really close to all the cute cafes in Trastevere and coffee shops, and the Botanical Gardens are one of the top spots to see the cherry blossom in Rome, too.
The entry fee is just 4 euros, and for that price, you really have lots to discover at the Orto Botanico!
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Best Hidden Gems in Rome: The Orange Garden
The Orange Garden, or Parco Savello is one of the most famous places to see the sunset in Rome.
Located on another one of the Seven Hills of Rome, Parco Savello was built in 1932, with a beautiful symmetrical design and authentic Roman architecture.
If you’re looking for places to see autumn colors in Rome, you’ll love this one – the view is immaculate, and with fall foliage, you’ll find it’s an utterly romantic spot.
is a stunning place located atop Aventine Hill. We have written about it before in one of the best parks in Rome to visit.
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Hidden Gems in Rome: Villa Torlonia
Villa Torlonia is another one of the best hidden gems in Rome, and a favorite when it comes to spots that blend a park, architecture, fountains, green spaces and art.
Villa Torlonia’s fairytale house is one that attracts the masses, but aside from locals, very few tourists actually visit the beautiful park.
It’s located relatively close to Quartiere Coppedè, so if you visit one, make sure you pop by the other!
The stunning neoclassical architecture makes Villa Torlonia one of the most beautiful buildings in Rome, and much of the place’s eccentricity actually has to do with Mussolini, who used to live on this property.
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Hidden Gems in Rome: Pigneto
Pigneto is a beautiful neighborhood located at the limites of the city center, and perfect for whoever loves street art.
The atmosphere here is an absolute joy and between the hip, alternative and multicultural vibes, Pigneto is definitely a place blooming with color.
If you’re looking for Rome off the beaten path, this is definitely it.
There are lots of cute coffee shops in Pigneto and places to eat for not much, so if you’re traveling to Rome on a budget, that’s a neighborhood to visit!
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Hidden Gems in Rome: Cats in Torre Argentina
Largo di Torre Argentina is a must visit if you love history, as you’ll find some of Rome’s most famous ruins there.
One of the highlights of Torre Argentina is the LaFeltrinelli bookshop, nothing short of one of the biggest and best bookstores in Rome.
In addition, this area is a large cat sanctuary home to many stray and feral cats, who are taken care of by a team of volunteers.
While you might not be able to bring a cat home on the plane, this sanctuary offers an “adopt from a distance” program where you can “adopt” a cat by sending monthly donations.
The sanctuary will then provide you with regular updates about your feline friend.
Largo di Torre Argentina is said to be the place where Julius Ceasar was assassinated, so in addition to the kitties, there are beautiful ruins and columns to admire.
You’ll also find some of the best pizza in Rome around, at Rossopomodoro – the Margherita pizza is always a go-to!
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Hidden Gems in Rome: Ostia Antica
Ostia Antica is one of the prettiest villages around Rome, and you’ll find there an incredible archaeological area.
Ostia is also famous for its beaches, and while there are plenty of cool beaches near Rome, this is the closest and cheapest to access.
You’ll also find beautiful gelato at Time Out in Ostia, well-worth a try as the flavors are all pretty different and very – very – tasty.
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Hidden Gems in Rome: Vicus Caprarius
The Vicus Caprarius, also known as the City of Water, is a series of underground tunnels beneath the Trevi district.
You’re really just a couple of minutes away from the Trevi Fountain, and the amount of archaeological items and ruins there are impressive, from African amphorae to the bust of Alessandro Helios.
The complex shows an imperial era domus and the path of the Virgin Aqueduct, and fun fact – this place actually supplies water to the Trevi Fountain.
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Hidden Gems in Rome: Catacombs of Priscilla
Dating back approximately 2000 years, the Catacombs of Priscilla are a series of catacombs built by early Christians, and known as the “Queen of the Catacombs” (Regina Catacumbarum) since antiquity.
These are the catacombs that house the bones of early popes and many Christian martyrs, and are located under Villa Ada, another villa you should pop by.
These catacombs really show how special Rome is – you have as much to see when walking around as you have under the city.
The Catacombs of Priscilla have only been open to the public since 2018, and is the type of landmark that is usually quiet – all the more time and space to really enjoy them!
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Secret Places in Rome: Piccola Londra
There are lots of beautiful, colorful streets in Notting Hill, in London, that are strong reminders of the Piccola Londra in Rome.
This is here one of the best hidden gems in Rome, so much so that you cannot really access this street unless you’re a local.
Colorful houses full of charm line Piccola Londra, a colorful street you’d really not expect to see in Italy.
However, Rome is indeed one of the most colorful cities in Italy, so it does make sense to come check it out – maybe a resident will let you in to snap a few shots!
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Hidden Gems in Rome: Mouth of Truth
The Bocca della Verità or as we know it, the Mouth of Truth is a face portrayed at the entrance to the church Santa Maria in Cosmedin.
No one is aware of what this sculpture originally was, and while some say it was part of an ancient Roman Fountain or perhaps a manhole cover.
Even though it its a hidden gem in Rome, this place is also a landmark which represents the God of the River Tiber.
Legend says that liars and cheaters who would lay their hand in the mouth of the sculpture would see it bitten off, a legend that has been around since the Middle Ages!
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Hidden Gems in Rome: San Carlo alle Quattro Fontane
San Carlo alle Quattro Fontane is the perfect spot to visit in Rome for beautiful architecture, and you’ll find four different statues around this church.
Also designed by the Baroque architect Borromini, the church plays on columns and curves.
The commission was proposed by the Trinitarian order, however, due to lack of funds, the church was built out of less expensive materials.
There is a certain pattern and rhythm created by the columns and curved walls as it moves in and out, and even the dome is quite peculiar, given it’s not the usual hemisphere but rather oval.
Close by, you have Tiziano Pucci, one of the best jewelry shops in Rome, definitely worth a visit for custom-made jewelry.
The entire area is super interesting, so don’t miss out on it!
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Hidden Gems in Rome: Rome’s Magic Door
The Magic Door (Porta Alchemica) is located close to Termini Station, and while many locals are aware of it, it’s usually missed by tourists who prefer the Trevi Fountain and the Pantheon.
Porta Alchemica is a magical door that is said to take you back to the days of alchemy in the 1600s
It’s one of the last five remaining doors that supposedly lead to Marquis Massimiliano Palombara’s Original villa.
The Marquis met an alchemist who claimed he could turn metal into gold, and is said to have vanished, leaving behind nothing more than gold flakes.
No one has been able to decipher the inscription on the Porta Alchemica, and since it’s located in one of the most beautiful parks in Rome, you have two reasons to come check it out!
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Hidden Gems in Rome: Baths of Caracalla
Last in our guide to the most magical places of Rome, the Baths of Caracalla!
Ancient Rome saw these baths used as a place to socialize and relax, and the Baths of Caracalla are the second-largest public baths that existed at the time.
You can step foot into history by exploring the ruins of this place on a guided tour, in case you’re interested in learning the ins and outs of these magical baths!
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These Are The Best Hidden Gems in Rome and Secret Places to Have on Your Bucket List
There you have them, all the best hidden gems in Rome to pop by whether you’re a tourist or a local!
If you’re traveled to the Eternal City before, you’ll have noticed that actually, some of the best hidden gems and secret spots you can visit are none other than the cafes and restaurants.
So in between all those must-visit spots, make sure you try one of the famous Roman pastries and chill in the oh-so-authentic coffee shops!
Until next time!
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