The famous city of Rome doesn’t just go to sleep as the sun sets. In fact, the city comes alive when the night falls.
For travelers exploring the Eternal City, the question isn’t what to do but where to start. If you’re on the hunt for the best things to do in Rome at night, you’ve come to the right place.
This city offers an amazing mix of experiences after dark, catering to all types of travelers.
My family and I traveled to this iconic city last summer for one week, and some of our favorite activities took place after dark. We took full advantage of seeing and exploring the city when the light faded to dusk. There is something so magical about the eternal city at twilight.
This post dives deeper into 15 incredible nighttime activities in Rome. From exploring ancient landmarks under the stars to savoring the local cuisine in famous neighborhoods, you will find so many things to do when the sun goes down.
1. Visit the Trevi Fountain

- Experience: The city’s most famous fountain is beautifully lit up in the evenings.
- Why at Night: Less crowded, the fountain’s lights make the sculptures seem to come alive.
- Tips: Bring small coins for wishes. Visit after dinner for a quieter experience.
While the Trevi fountain is crowded almost all times of day, visiting after dinner will be much more calm than visiting during the daytime.
There is also something magical about tossing a coin in when the sun is setting, or the moonlight shines overhead.
You can’t miss participating in this Roman tradition – throwing a coin with the right hand over the left shoulder to ensure a return to this eternal city.
2. Stroll Up the Spanish Steps

- Experience: The Spanish Steps offer a peaceful and romantic setting at night, beautifully illuminated.
- Why at Night: Cooler temperatures and fewer tourists make for a more enjoyable climb.
- Tips: Grab a gelato from a nearby shop. Best visited post-sunset for the best experience.
There’s something about the Spanish Steps at night that feels quintessentially Roman.
It’s must do for any Rome itinerary.
The steps are gently lit, the air is cooler, and you can hear the sounds of the city all around you- a distant chatter, the clinking of glasses from nearby cafes, the soft strum of a street musician’s guitar.
The best time to visit? Just after sunset when, Rome is illuminated in the golden hues of streetlights.
3. Book a Night Time Tour of the Colosseum

- Experience: A night tour of the Colosseum is the perfect way to see this ancient wonder without the crowds.
- Why at Night: The lighting adds drama to the fascinating historical ambiance.
- Tips: Book in advance as night tours are limited. Wear comfortable shoes.
Under the night sky, it is easy to imagine gladiators and wild beasts preparing for battle at the very place you are standing.
A nighttime tour will give you exclusive access to the Colosseum Underground and Arena Floor without the massive crowds you will find during the daytime.
Wander through the underground dungeons, envisioning the warriors who awaited their fate in these very corridors.
The drama of nightfall only adds to the spookiness while admiring one of the world’s greatest historical treasures.
Check the rates and reviews for this Colosseum Night Tour that I recommend.
4. Take a Food Tour Through Trastevere
- Experience: Trastevere’s lively atmosphere at night is perfect for a food tour with various local eateries.
- Why at Night: Experience the authentic Roman nightlife and cuisine.
- Tips: Tours often start right before sunset. Come hungry.
The charming neighborhood of Trastevere, with its cobbled streets and twinkling lights, serves as a backdrop for an unforgettable food tour.
The air is filled with the aromas of freshly cooked pasta and baked pizza, inviting you to indulge.
You’re not just tasting food; you’re experiencing the essence of Roman culture. You will sample dishes such as ‘Cacio e Pepe’, a simple yet mouth-watering pasta dish that captures the heart of Roman cuisine.
The tours usually kick off right before sunset, just as the evening begins to buzz with both locals and visitors in the cozy trattorias and bustling piazzas.
Check rates and reviews for this Trastevere Guided Food Tour + Wine Tasting
5. Visit the Vatican

- Experience: Visiting the Vatican at night offers a more personal and less rushed experience.
- Why at Night: Special evening tours mean fewer crowds and a unique atmosphere.
- Tips: Check dates for night openings. Don’t forget to dress modestly.
It’s a rare opportunity to see the Vatican’s treasures without the rush of daytime crowds, allowing you and your family to connect with history on a deeper level.
These special night openings are a chance to see the Vatican in a different light, quite literally.
The artworks and sculptures take on a new life in the evening glow, making it a magical experience.
Remember to check the dates for these exclusive tours and dress respectfully (cover those shoulders and knees).
6. Zip Around on a Golf Cart or Vespa

- Experience: Exploring Rome by golf cart or Vespa at night lets you cover more ground with cooler temperatures.
- Why at Night: See the city’s landmarks beautifully lit up, with less traffic.
- Tips: Book with a reputable tour company.
Touring by golf cart or Vespa offers a fun and exhilarating way to see Rome’s iconic sights under the stars.
Gliding past landmarks like the Pantheon or the Colosseum, beautifully illuminated against the night sky, is an experience you won’t forget.
Opting for a golf cart can be a great choice for families.
For the more adventurous, a Vespa tour is the perfect way to cruise around Rome. Whichever mode you choose, you’re in for an unforgettable night discovering the eternal city.
7. Enjoy Sunset from a Rooftop Bar

- Experience: Enjoy stunning sunset views over Rome with an Italian cocktail
- Why at Night: Witness the transformation of the city as day turns to night.
- Tips: Arrive early to grab the best spot. Our favorite is Cielo Terrace.
As the sun dips below the horizon, the city’s ancient buildings and winding streets create a picture-perfect backdrop for an unforgettable evening.
One tip to make the most of this experience is to arrive early, securing the best spot to take in the views.
And if you’re looking for a recommendation, Cielo Terrace is a fantastic choice. Known for its welcoming atmosphere, it’s the perfect place to relax, sipping on drinks and watching daylight fade to night.
8. Spend A Night at the Opera
- Experience: Experience the rich cultural tradition of Italian opera in a historic venue.
- Why at Night: The dramatic setting is perfect for an elegant evening out.
- Tips: Book tickets in advance. Opt for a pre-opera dinner nearby.
These historic venues, such as the Teatro dell’Opera di Roma, are architectural masterpieces and come alive with the beautiful sounds of opera.
The evening setting adds to the sophistication and charm of the experience, making it an ideal choice for a special night out in Rome.
9. Savor a Traditional Italian Dinner

- Experience: Nighttime is perfect for enjoying a leisurely traditional Italian dinner.
- Why at Night: Experience the authentic Italian dining culture.
- Tips: Make reservations in popular restaurants. Try local specialties.
There’s nothing quite like the experience of sitting down to a traditional Italian dinner as the city of Rome twinkles under the night sky.
This is when the true essence of Italian dining culture comes to life – a time for relaxation, conversation, and savoring every bite.
Check out the historic Trastevere district for classic Roman dishes like Carbonara and Amatriciana or the Prati neighborhood, where you might indulge in a Risotto alla Romana or a perfectly cooked Saltimbocca.
Embrace the Italian way of dining – take your time and enjoy the ambiance.
10. Wander Through Centro Storico

- Experience: The historic center is enchanting at night, with illuminated streets and landmarks.
- Why at Night: Cooler and less crowded, it’s perfect for a leisurely stroll.
- Tips: Don’t miss the Pantheon and Piazza Navona. Comfortable walking shoes are a must.
Strolling through these cobblestone streets, you’ll come across some of Rome’s most iconic landmarks.
The Pantheon, with its grand dome and centuries-old history, stands seems more majestic under the night sky.
Nearby Piazza Navona, with its beautiful fountains is the perfect spot to people watch or grab an aperitivo.
The cooler night air makes wandering through these ancient streets a joy.
Remember to wear comfortable shoes, as the charm of the Centro Storico is best experienced on foot. Let yourself get lost in the narrow alleys.
11. Catch a Show at an Outdoor Cinema
- Experience: Spring and Summer nights in Rome are perfect for catching a show at one of the city’s charming outdoor cinemas.
- Why at Night: A unique way to enjoy films under the stars in a historic setting.
- Tips: Popular venues include Piazza San Cosimato, Monte Ciocci, and Casale della Cervelletta. Check schedules in advance.
Rome offers a delightful summer tradition – outdoor cinema.
Typically, in June and July, several of its picturesque locations transform into open-air movie theaters.
These venues typically showcase a mix of contemporary and classic films, often in original language with Italian subtitles, catering to both locals and tourists.
Arriving early to secure a good spot is recommended, as these summer screenings are a popular evening pastime.


12. Enjoy Rome’s Vibrant Nightlife
- Experience: Dive into Rome’s electrifying nightlife and dance scene.
- Why at Night: A fun and exhilarating way to immerse yourself in the local culture and music.
- Tips: Explore the nightlife in Trastevere, Piazza Navona, Campo de’ Fiori, and Monti.
When the sun sets, Rome’s nightlife comes alive with a vibrant energy that’s infectious.
The city’s nightclubs and bars offer an array of experiences, from chic lounges to high-energy dance floors.
While there are awesome venues throughout the city, the Trastevere and Monti neighborhoods, as well as the area around Piazza Navona and Campo de’ Fiori, will be where you can find the best nightlife.
Every night is a celebration of life, music, and the joy of being in one of the world’s most beautiful cities.
13. Cheer at a Football Game
- Experience: Immerse yourself in the local sports culture at a lively football match.
- Why at Night: The energetic atmosphere under the floodlights is thrilling.
- Tips: Wear the team colors to blend in. Check the schedule in advance. The main teams are AS Roma and SS Lazio, playing at Stadio Olimpico.
There’s nothing quite like the excitement of a football match in Rome, especially when the city’s beloved teams, AS Roma and SS Lazio, take to the field at the iconic Stadio Olimpico.
As the sun sets and the floodlights come on, The air is electric with chants and cheers.
Attending a night match here is a fantastic way to dive into the heart of Roman culture.
Be sure to check the match schedule in advance, as these games are a central part of Roman life, and tickets can sell out quickly.
14. Have a Spooky Night on a Ghost Tour
- Experience: A ghost tour offers the perfect way to learn about Rome’s mysterious past.
- Why at Night: The darkness adds to the eerie atmosphere of the ancient stories.
- Tips: Wear comfortable walking shoes. Be prepared for spine-tingling encounters!
Your guide, a master storyteller, will lead you through secret backstreets and hidden corners of the Eternal City, tracing trails left by old ghosts and unsolved mysteries.
As you navigate between grand monuments and opulent churches under the cover of darkness, the city’s rich history becomes even more fascinating.
Be warned – it’s not for the faint of heart.
It’s an experience that promises to leave you looking over your shoulder long after the tour ends, forever changing the way you see the Eternal City.
Check reviews and prices for this Paranormal Night Walking Tour in Rome
15. Craft your own Pasta or Cocktails by Taking a Class

- Experience: A pasta and cocktail-making class is a fun way to immerse yourself in Roman culture
- Why at Night: An engaging way to spend an evening, followed by enjoying your creation.
- Tips: Suitable for all ages. My top recommendation is to try the Drunken Cooking Class for a unique experience making both pasta and cocktails.
You will be greeted not just with aprons but also with the history and spirit of Italian cooking.
Under the guidance of expert chefs, you’ll get hands-on with crafting your own fresh Italian pasta, choosing between classic sauces like carbonara or cacio e pepe.
The experience of kneading the dough, shaping the pasta, and simmering the sauce will make you feel like a true Italian Chef.
For a fun twist, consider booking a class that offers a class on cocktails. You’ll learn to make three of Italy’s most famous spritzes: Aperol, Campari, and Limoncello.
And the best part? Settling down with your new foodie friends, sipping on your third refreshing spritz, and savoring the delicious meal you’ve created.
Check rates and reviews for this Traditional Pasta with Cocktails Drunken Cooking Class in Rome
Final Thoughts:
It’s clear that the city’s excitement doesn’t dim with the setting sun.
Instead, it takes on a different, more intimate charm.
Whether you’ve spent your evening admiring historical sites under the moonlight, savoring exquisite Italian cuisine, or immersing yourself in the local nightlife, you will never forget your time in the ancient city.