21 Things To Do in Rome on a Rainy Day 2024

While Rome is known for its sunny skies and beautiful weather, occasional rainy days might put a damper on your plans. But don’t worry, there are plenty of indoor activities and attractions to keep you entertained during a rainy day in Rome.

What You Need to Know about Rain in Rome

And the best part is that these activities are available every day, rain or shine! So, whether you’re a history buff, an art lover, or a foodie, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Here are the TOP 21 of the best things to do in Rome when it rains:

1. Join a two-hour guided tour of the Vatican Museums and immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of some of the country’s most lavishly decorated halls and galleries.
   
   Discover the Pio Clementino Museum, Gallery of the Candelabra, Gallery of the Tapestries, Gallery of the Geographical Maps, Raphael’s Rooms, and the Sistine Chapel. Marvel at classical statuary, intricate tapestries, and 16th-century topographical maps of Italy. Explore the four Raphael Rooms and stand in awe of the world-renowned Michelangelo’s ceiling frescoes and Giudizio Universale (Last Judgment) in the Sistine Chapel.
   
   With a knowledgeable guide, you’ll skip the lines and gain insight into the history and art that have been collected by the Popes over the years. This tour is a must-see for anyone visiting Rome. Read more about the Vatican Museums.
2. Experience some of the best Italian art and sculptures of all time in the Galleria Borghese, a world-renowned collection of masterpieces, including works by Bernini, Raphael, Canova, and Caravaggio. With a passionate and friendly guide, uncover each piece’s fascinating history and secrets while admiring pristine lawns, gushing fountains, and striking monuments with a walk through the gardens.
   
   Marvel at Canova’s semi-nude sculpture of Paolina Borghese, Bernini’s David and Apollo and Daphne, and Caravaggio’s Saint Jerome Writing. Your allotted two-hour visit is limited to 360 people at a time, so it’s open, allowing you to take your time to appreciate each artwork. After your tour, take a walk through the gardens and enjoy a breathtaking view from the top of the Pincio Terrace. Read our Borghese Gallery Ultimate Guide.
3. Uncover Rome’s eerie and fascinating history with a guided tour of the Capuchin Crypt.
   
   Hidden beneath the Santa Maria della Concezione dei Cappuccini lies a chilling spectacle of 3,700 skeletons and bones of Capuchin friars, arranged and stacked as chapel decoration. With an expert English-speaking guide, hear captivating stories of the crypt’s creation and its lesser-known place in Roman cultural history. This macabre display of human remains is a poignant reminder of life’s transience, making it an unmissable experience for the curious traveler. A detailed review of the tour is here.
4. Go shopping: Rome is a shopper’s paradise, with everything from high-end designer stores to street markets.
   
   Spend a rainy day browsing the shops and picking up some souvenirs to take home. If you’re looking for a more curated shopping experience, consider visiting Castel Romano Outlet, which offers discounts on top Italian and international brands. Alternatively, check out the Rinascente store in Rome, a luxurious department store that features a wide range of high-end fashion, beauty, and home goods. Both options offer a comfortable and enjoyable indoor shopping experience, perfect for a rainy day in Rome.
5. Take a cooking class in the heart of Rome’s Piazza Navona and learn to make three classic Italian dishes: fettuccine, ravioli, and tiramisu. Your professional chef will teach you the traditional methods and techniques using fresh Italian ingredients. Taste your creations with a glass of wine and enjoy the culinary traditions of Rome in the beautiful surroundings of the Piazza Navona.
6. Explore the fascinating and mysterious Catacombs of St. Callixtus on a 40-minute guided tour. Learn about the burial practices of early Christians during times of persecution and discover the resting places of many Christian martyrs and ancient popes. Wander through the labyrinthine tunnels and crypts where half a million Christians were entombed, and decode the mysterious symbols etched into the stone. This immersive tour offers a glimpse into the rich religious history of Rome, and is perfect for those who want to explore the city’s subterranean wonders.
7. Watch the rainfall inside the Pantheon: On a rainy day, head to the Pantheon and witness a unique experience as rainwater falls through the oculus in the center of the dome. This ancient temple-turned-church is one of Rome’s most iconic landmarks and offers a stunning sight during rainfall. Take a moment to reflect on the beauty of this architectural masterpiece while staying dry inside. Afterward, explore the rest of the Pantheon’s rich history and culture.
8. Explore beautiful churches: With so many stunning churches in Rome, a rainy day is the perfect time to visit and admire their art and architecture. Check out Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore, one of the largest churches in the city and home to impressive mosaics and frescoes.
   
   Or visit the Church of Sant’Ignazio di Loyola, known for its magnificent ceiling fresco and stunning Baroque design. Another option is the Basilica di San Clemente, a 12th-century church that offers a unique glimpse into Rome’s layered history, with three levels of archaeological excavations beneath the church itself.
9. Visit indoor food markets: Rome has several indoor food markets, such as Mercato Centrale and Eataly, where you can sample and purchase delicious Italian cuisine. Spend a rainy day indulging in Italian delicacies and soaking up the atmosphere of these vibrant markets.
10. Visit wine bars: Rome has a vibrant wine scene, with many cozy wine bars where you can sample local wines and enjoy some appetizers. Spend a rainy evening sipping wine and enjoying the company of friends or fellow travelers. Here is a list of the best enotecas in Rome.
11. Take a tour of Rome by car: While walking is one of the best ways to experience Rome’s charming streets and iconic landmarks, sometimes the weather can be too rainy to enjoy a long stroll. That’s where a car tour comes in handy. You can hire a private car and driver to take you on a customizable tour of the city, visiting top attractions like the Colosseum, the Trevi Fountain, and the Spanish Steps. You can even opt for a night tour to see the city’s stunning illuminated monuments. With a car tour, you can stay warm and dry while still enjoying the sights and sounds of Rome.
12. Immerse yourself in the epic tale of two doomed lovers in Verdi’s La Traviata at Rome’s St. Paul’s Within the Walls Church. With dazzling performances, ornate costumes, and fabulous live music, experience the prime opera elements of romance, jealousy, and disapproving parents, all backed by an expert in-house orchestra. Relax in your velvet seat and be swept away by the high-stakes drama brought to life by the troupe of expert singers. Whether you’re an opera lover or new to the genre, La Traviata is an experience to be noticed, especially on a rainy day in Rome.
13. Get ready for a fun-filled adventure at the Museum of Illusions in the heart of Rome. This museum is perfect for the whole family, where you can experience a variety of exhibits that will leave you wondering if what you see is real or just an illusion. Enjoy trick mirrors, wonky lights, and uneven flooring – just remember to bring your camera and capture amazing photos. Explore the different fields of psychology, mathematics, science, and biology, and learn a few laws of physics along the way. With so much to discover and explore, this is an experience that you won’t want to miss!
14. Explore the genius of Leonardo da Vinci at the Leonardo da Vinci Museum in Rome. Discover more than 200 wooden machines and 65 working models of his drawings, including flying machines, a machine gun, and a bicycle. Get hands-on and try out some of these mechanical wonders for yourself. Witness the future with nine new exhibits created with the latest hologram technology and dive into the past with the remains of a burial temple dating back to 43 BC. The museum is housed in the stunning Palazzo della Cancelleria, owned by the Vatican, which also features the Vatican court, Sacra Rota, and the Sala dei Cento Giorni, frescoed by Vasari. Discover the genius of one of the most celebrated artists and intellectuals of the Italian Renaissance and experience history and engineering uniquely and unforgettably.
15. Explore the bustling heart of the Roman Empire and get a glimpse into the city’s past at Trajan’s Market in Rome.
    
    This fascinating archaeological complex features 150 shops and offices, providing a glimpse into the world of commerce and trade during the Roman Imperial Age. With a multimedia video guide, take a 25-minute trip back in time and observe how the market looked during its heyday. As you explore the ruins, admire the ancient sculptures and amphorae dating back thousands of years, and gain insight into the evolution of the city. With so much history and culture to discover, Trajan’s Market is a must-visit destination for any history buff or anyone who wants to experience the rich legacy of Rome.
16. Discover the Olympic Stadium, an iconic sports venue in Rome, on a rainy day.
    
    Take a tour of the stadium and immerse yourself in the history of the great sporting events that have taken place here. From the 1960 Olympic Games to the World Cup, European Championships, and even sold-out concerts, the stadium has seen it all. Explore the dressing rooms, the pitch, and other secret places of the stadium, and browse through a collection of memorabilia, including jerseys and holographic trophies. Experience the thrill of the games and the impressive choruses and anthems in an interactive environment. Don’t let the rain dampen your spirits, and enjoy the Olympic Stadium in all its glory. Read more about Olympic Stadium in Rome.
17. Explore a world of sensory exploration and artistic expression at IKONO, a photographic experience like no other in the heart of Rome. This one-of-a-kind attraction offers over a dozen interactive installations that combine cutting-edge technology with stunning visuals and sensory stimulation. From the “Roman Thermae” with its giant ball pit to the “Tokyo Street” with its surreal atmosphere and exciting activities, journey through nine surreal zones that let you unleash your creativity and become part of incredible photography and videos. Unlike traditional art galleries, IKONO makes you the real protagonist of the experience. Suitable for all ages, it’s a unique and unforgettable adventure that takes you out of your comfort zone and leaves you with unforgettable memories. Get ready to dive in and explore the mesmerizing worlds of IKONO Roma!
18. Discover one of Rome’s richest art collections in a stunning city palace. Step into a world of unparalleled beauty and history at the Doria Pamphilj Gallery in Rome. This stunning city palace is home to one of Rome’s richest art collections, featuring masterpieces by some of the greatest painters in history, including Raphael, Tintoretto, Titian, Caravaggio, and Velázquez. As you wander around the palatial gallery, you’ll be struck by the breathtaking floor-to-ceiling paintings that adorn the walls, transporting you to a world of opulence and grandeur. Don’t miss the chance to see the famous Portrait of Innocent X, widely considered to be one of the finest portraits ever created. With so much art and history to discover, a visit to the Doria Pamphilj Gallery is a must for any art lover or history buff visiting Rome.
19. Discover the lavish lifestyle of Emperor Nero with a visit to the Domus Aurea, his infamous Golden House. Join a guided tour to uncover the archaeological secrets of this ancient site and see the surviving frescoes and mosaics that inspired great Renaissance artists. Immerse yourself in history with a 15-minute video and 3D viewers that transport you back in time to see the grandeur of this once-luxurious palace. Walk in Nero’s footsteps and marvel at the intricate details of the art and architecture, as well as the stunning views of the surrounding landscape that have remained relatively unchanged for centuries. Get a rare glimpse into Roman antiquity and experience luxury through the eyes of the notorious Emperor Nero.
20. Discover one of the largest and most exquisite private art collections in Italy at the Colonna Gallery, housed inside the Palazzo Colonna.
    
    Step into a Baroque masterpiece as you explore intricately gilded details and breathtaking frescoes lining almost every surface. Feast your eyes on original works by renowned artists such as Carracci, Bronzino, and Guercino. Marvel at the stunning Hall of Landscapes, Hall of the Apotheosis of Martin V, Chapel Room, and Tapestry Room. This is a must-visit for any art enthusiast or anyone looking to immerse themselves in the rich history and culture of Baroque Rome.
21. Discover Rome’s hidden history with an exclusive tour of the Piazza Navona Underground and the Stadium of Domitian. Uncover the mysteries of the ancient city with access to a newly restored section of the archaeological area, previously inaccessible to the public. Wander through the ruins with an audio guide available in your preferred language, and immerse yourself in the spectacular story of the Roman Empire. Explore the Stadium of Domitian, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and gain a unique perspective on ancient Rome. This tour offers a rare opportunity to witness the city’s past and gain a deeper understanding of its history.

Read also about the top 15 free things to do in Rome.

As you can see, Rome offers plenty of exciting indoor activities on rainy days. From visiting museums and galleries to cooking classes and catacomb tours, there’s something for everyone. And don’t worry if it’s not raining – these activities are available every day, rain or shine. In the WEATHER section, you can find useful tips on how to dress for the changing seasons in Rome. And if you need any help planning your trip to Rome and Italy, don’t hesitate to contact us for a private consultation. We’ll be happy to help create the perfect travel plan for you!

Author: Artur Jakucewicz

I have lived in Rome for over 10 years and am glad to share my experience and knowledge. I love ancient history and architecture — author of travel guides in Italy for independent travelers.