If you’re looking for something special with your loved one, then Romantic Rome is your best bet. The Eternal City has world-renowned attractions, but it’s also one of the most romantic places to enjoy a vacation or honeymoon with your better half. So what are some of Rome’s top attractions for lovebirds?
Some of the top attractions to explore with your partner include a Vespa tour, strolling through Trastevere, dining in Campo de’ Fiori, experiencing Love Locks on Ponte Milvio, witnessing the sunset at Spanish Steps, an evening boat ride on the Tiber River, a romantic panorama at Gianicolo Hill, and exploring Villa Borghese gardens. You can also toss a coin into the Trevi Fountain and indulge in a spa experience.
Keen to learn more about some of the romantic places to experience with your partner when in magical Rome? If so, then you couldn’t be in a better place. Here are 15 must-do activities to create lasting memories.
The 15 Best Things to Do to Enjoy Romantic Rome
Here are 15 things you can do in Rome to create memories with your loved one.
1. Go on a Vespa Tour
What a beautiful way to experience romantic Rome than hopping on a Vespa and touring with your loved one. These private tours allow you to explore the major Roman attractions in a little under 4 hours.
It’s a great alternative to walking as it adds a much-needed layer of convenience to your tours. Luckily, there are a large number of agencies that specialize in Vespa hires or chauffeuring, so you won’t be short of options. If you opt to be chauffeured on a Vespa scooter, it’s best to request an English-speaking rider.
2. Stroll through Trastevere
Experience the endlessly photogenic Trastevere neighborhood at any time of the day. But for a truly romantic experience, I’d recommend planning for an evening stroll and experiencing its vibrant nightlife. A great place to start your walk is the Lighthouse of Manfredi, which stands high, giving you a proper view of Rome.
Other attractions to explore when strolling through Trastevere include the Garibaldi monument, the Fontana dell’Acqua Paola, and San Pietro in Montorio (limited opening hours). An evening stroll allows you and your better half to experience a bustling nightlife. The neighborhood is filled with nightclubs, bars, and trattorias that’ll make the trip well worth the while.
3. Experience Love Locks on Ponte Milvio
One of Rome’s oldest bridges, Ponte Milvio is widely regarded as one of Rome’s most romantic attractions. It is characterized by the padlocks hung by lovebirds as a way to lock their love and is a great sight to behold when winding up your day.
In addition to the hung padlocks, the bridge also gives you a wonderful view of the river before crossing over. Evening visits allow you to explore the vibrant night scene and enjoy a romantic dinner or drink session with your better half.
4. Have a Dinner Date in Campo de’ Fiori
Although lively during the day due to its flower and vegetable markets, the Campo de’ Fiori is also a great place to experience romantic Rome with your partner. It’s one of Rome’s most beloved meeting spaces due to its restaurants, terraces, and cocktail bars.
You’ll have a rich option of restaurants to choose from as you explore the beautiful Roman square at night. Some of the best fine dining spots worth trying in Camp de’ Fiori include the Art Cibo, Campocori, Giulia, Lion, Queen Bee, and Mater Terrae restaurants.
5. Witness the Sunset at the Spanish Steps
One of Rome’s most iconic landmarks, the Spanish Steps is a must-have in your itinerary. Both locals and tourists adore the attraction for its fascinating views, especially during sunset. It’s one of Rome’s most popular landmarks, attracting millions of tourists every year.
The topmost part gives you a scenic view of the sunset and an aerial view of Rome’s beautiful architecture. Besides enjoying the romantic sunset with your soul mate, you’ll also have a first-hand view of street performers, from artists to musicians.
Read more: Temples in Rome – Secret Guide to 17 Ancient Roman Temples
6. Enjoy an Evening Boat Ride on the Tiber River
Another way to experience Romantic Rome with your loved one is a boat ride on the Tiber River. You’ll enjoy gliding past landmarks like St. Peter’s Basilica and Castel Sant’Angelo under the night sky.
There are several agencies offering boat Tiber River cruises, and you can choose a package that best matches your interests. A good idea is a cruise with dinner as you enjoy live music entertainment. Most agencies offer hotel pickup and drop-off, so you won’t have to worry much about logistics.
7. Visit Gianicolo Hill for a Romantic Panorama
Graciously rising above Trastevere’s streets, the Gianicollo hilltop offers a romantic respite away from all the noise. You can enjoy the lively ambiance created by street artists and entertainers with your love while taking in the magical views of landmarks like the Colosseum, St. Peter’s Basilica, and the Pantheon.
I’d recommend taking an evening walk on the tree-lined pathway to appreciate central Rome’s bell towers and domes. There are several benches lined up, so you can enjoy a romantic sunset picnic with your better half.
8. Explore Villa Borghese Gardens and Pincian Hill
You can’t possibly experience romantic Rome without exploring Villa Borghese, arguably Rome’s most popular park. The beautiful gardens are located on the Pincian Hill, close to Piazza del Popolo and the Spanish Steps.
The garden is renowned for its stunning fountains, picturesque gardens, art collections, and museums. It’s a peaceful retreat after a long day touring Rome’s other attractions, while the high vantage point gives you breathtaking views of the Eternal City.
Read more: Statues in Rome – 23 Must-see Pieces in the Eternal City
9. Experience a Candlelit Visit to the Colosseum
Arguably one of Rome’s most popular attractions, the Colosseum is a must-see for anyone looking to truly experience the Eternal City. Although most people visit the Colosseum during the day, planning for a night tour gives you a different perspective of the historical monument.
A night tour means you won’t have to contend with long lines. Plus, it’s a lot more romantic as you’ll get to explore the undergrounds and Arena with your better half right beside you.
10. Walk the Ancient Appian Way
If you’re big on hikes, then you won’t mind spending an hour or two exploring the famous Appian Way. Some of the popular attractions you’ll come across when walking the Appian Way include the tomb of Priscilla, the church of Domine Quo Vadis, the Chapel of Reginald Pole, and the catacombs of St. Sebastian.
A walk is a great way to fully experience the Appian Way with your better half. But you can also rent a bicycle or an e-bike to travel more comfortably along the ancient road. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes to enjoy the memorable experience.
Read more: What is Rome Famous For – 28 Things that Make Rome Unique
11. Capture the Best Photo of the Colosseum Together in the Roman Forum
Your romantic Rome experience isn’t complete without taking photos next to renowned attractions like the Colosseum and Roman Forum. You can request your tour guide to take photos of you with your loved one. The more photos, the merrier.
12. Sip Cocktails at a Rooftop Bar
Nothing beats a cocktail session at a rooftop bar after hours of sightseeing. It’s a nice way to unwind with your partner as you watch the sunset slowly kick in.
Luckily, there are tons of rooftop bars where you can catch a drink as you enjoy a birds-eye view of the Eternal City. Some of the top spots to try out include Roof Garden Les Etoiles, Zuma, Minerva Roof Garden, Angelina, and Hotel Forum.
13. Attend an Opera Night at Teatro Dell’Opera di Roma
The Teatro Dell’Opera di Roma is the perfect way to cap your Roman experience, especially if you’re into opera and live performance. It has hosted top opera artists from Caruso to Del Monaco, Renata Tebaldi, and Gigli.
You don’t really have to be a fan of Opera music to experience the world-renowned Teatro Dell’Opera di Roma. You will, however, need to buy your ticket on the official website.
14. Toss a Coin Into the Trevi Fountain
The Trevi Fountain is a must-visit attraction for lovebirds and one that you should definitely tour with your better half. The coin-tossing tradition is popular for singles and couples looking to explore romantic Rome.
Head out to the Trevi Fountain with your loved one and toss coins. Tossing one coin means you’ll return to the Eternal City, so go ahead and do it with your loved one.
15. Indulge in a Relaxing Spa Experience
Unwind after a hectic couple of days sightseeing with a relaxing spa experience at the QC Termeroma. Located just outside Rome, the Spa of Wonders presents a wonderful opportunity to relax with your better half and reminisce about your experience. Be sure to book in advance to get the best deals.
Romantic Hotels in Rome
Here are some of the most romantic hotels in central Rome.
TB Place Roma
Located just 0.4 miles from central Rome, the TB Place Roma is a great option if you’re looking to stay in a strategically located establishment. All rooms are air-conditioned and come with a fridge, coffee machine and minibar.
Hotel Smeraldo
Hotel Smeraldo is one of Rome’s best hotels and is preferred due to its strategic location. It’s located 656 feet from the Campo de’ Fiori and is just a 5 minutes’ walk from Piazza Navona and Pantheon.
Hotel Raphael – Relais & Châteaux
The Hotel Raphael is the ideal definition of luxury blended with beauty. The rooms are adorned with timeless fittings and parquet floors, perfect for a romantic getaway in central Rome.
Read more: Best Hotels in Trastevere, Rome – The 15 Coolest Stays
Poesis Experience Hotel
If you’re looking to enjoy the scenic rooftop views of Rome, then the Poesis Experience Hotel is your best bet. The rooms are spacious and air-conditioned, while you get a minibar, coffee machine and flat-screen TV.
Romantic Restaurants in Rome
Below are some of the top restaurants to try out in Rome.
Ambrosia Rooftop Restaurant & Bar
Dubbed the perfect lovers’ gateway, Ambrosia’s Rooftop Restaurant & Bar is the perfect place to unwind after a hectic day touring Rome. The bar is renowned for its cocktails and delectable meals by Chef Massimo Gonella. The restaurant specializes in Italian and Mediterranean cuisines and requires reservations.
Ad Hoc Ristorante (Piazza del Popolo)
Known for its ambiance and undeniable warmth, the Ad Hoc Ristorante is a not-so-hidden gem that’s perfect for couples. The well-curated wine list and creative food, coupled with the welcoming team, make this restaurant a must-visit.
II Ferro e il Fuoco
One of the trendiest restaurants in Rome, the II Ferro e il Fuoco is a great place to fine dine with your partner. The restaurant operates from 7 pm to 10 pm from Tuesday to Sunday and is one of the best places to enjoy Italian cuisine without moving too far from the town center.
FAQs About Romantic Rome for Couples
Here are some of the commonly asked questions about touring Rome with your partner.
Is Rome a Good Place for Couples?
Rome is a great place for couples. There are plenty of romantic spots, from gardens to restaurants, hotels, and ancient attractions, that you can enjoy with your better half.
Where are The Best Romantic Places in Rome to Propose?
The best romantic places in Rome to propose include the Colosseum, Trevi Fountain, the Pantheon, Roman Forum, and the Spanish Steps. There is no shortage of romantic spots in the Eternal City to seal your love.
Which Romantic Scene in a Rome Movie is Famous?
The Trevi Fountain has appeared in several movies. It features in Federico Fellini’s 1960 movie La Dolce Vita. It also featured in William Wyler’s 1953 movie, Roman Holiday. It’s a popular attraction that has also inspired several artworks and literature.
Wrapping Up
Exploring romantic Rome with your loved one is a great way to create lasting memories. If your budget (and time) allows, you should explore most, if not all, of the attractions we’ve listed in this article.
The trick is to buy tickets in advance to avoid any sort of disappointment. The same goes for restaurants, especially during peak seasons where finding a spot without reservations is impossible.
