What to do in Rome in spring

Warm but mild weather, beautiful blooms and fewer crowds make spring our favourite time of year to explore the Italian capital of Rome. Before the stifling heat of the summer months takes over, you’ll be able to wonder around the many piazzas and neighbourhoods stopping for pizza at your leisure. Whether you want to see the iconic sights, sip alfresco on espresso or enjoy one of the city’s parks, this list will have something to keep you busy. Here’s our guide to the best things to do in spring in Rome.

Walk around Trastavere

If you want to truly get under the skin of Rome then you need to visit the charming medieval neighbourhood of Trastavere. A walk around here, away from the crowds of the coliseum and Vatican will show you hidden corners and unexpected sights, revealing the city in a whole new light. Head there in the morning and tuck into one of the best breakfasts in Rome before exploring the labyrinthine streets and stunning piazzas. Spend the day ambling around the shops and stopping for regular coffee breaks before hitting one of the many bars when the neighbourhood comes alive with a raucous nightlife scene once the sun goes down. 

 

Soak in the sights on Gianicolo Hill

Just to the west of the Tiber River is Gianicolo Hill, which provides panoramic views of the city. The climb to the top is a bit of a hike, so spring is the perfect time to visit before the temperatures have hit their peak. Visiting at sunrise or sunset provide particularly spectacular views. You’ll be able to see some the Eternal City’s most famous buildings as well as a few monuments on the hill itself. Why not take a picnic to the top and make a day of it? 

 

Source: Fine Art America

Be a proper tourist for the day 

Visiting Rome is essentially like visiting a huge outdoor museum, so steeped in history at every turn. From the Trevi Fountain to the Coliseum and the Roman Forum to St. Peter’s Square you’ll be awe struck by the sheer amount of world famous sights. And the best thing about visiting Rome in spring is that the summer holiday crowds have yet to arrive, so you’ll see some of these places in relative peace and quiet. We recommend you still book tickets in advance for things like the Sistine Chapel to avoid disappointment. 

Take a cooking class

Learn to cook like the nonnas (Italian grandmas) in a cooking class in Rome. Lots of the classes make use of seasonal ingredients making spring the perfect time to do one, when zucchini flowers, spring peas, beans, lemons and cherries are all ripe for the picking. There are hundreds of options whether you want a quick lesson in pasta making or a full on masterclass and a five course meal. This Rome cooking class is particularly reputable. 

 

Go on a day trip out of town 

There are a number of day trips you can take from Rome which will reward you with beautiful scenery, historic sights and delicious food. For one that ticks all three boxes we recommend a day trip to Pompeii. The fast train will only take 1 hour and 15 minutes and will get you there by mid morning to explore the ancient volcanic site. You could also walk to the top of Mount Vesuvius if you’re feeling energetic for breathtaking vistas.  

 

Flex your photography skills on the Spanish steps 

Come Spring the world famous Spanish steps come alive with their annual azaleas making them an even more arresting sight than usual. Take a friend a spend a morning getting the perfect shot of the gorgeous architecture. It’s not just the Spanish steps that come alive with blooms in spring. The whole city becomes draped in wisteria and poppies spring up among the ancient ruins giving you plenty of stunning photo opportunities. 

 

Source: The Incredibly Long Journey

Enjoy alfresco coffee

The Romans are famous for their coffee culture and in spring locals spill out onto the pavements to enjoy the sun as they sip their espresso. Read our guide to the best coffee in Rome to make sure your caffeine hit is top notch.

 

Party with the Romans at a festival 

In spring, after a winter of hibernation, the Romans hit the streets and celebrate with festivals and fates of all themes and sizes. On the closest Sunday to the 21st of April every year, Rome celebrates its birthday with parades and fireworks throughout the city. Costumed parades, gladiator fighting and historical re-enactments take place throughout the main ancient site, making this weekend an exciting time to visit. 

 

Source: Italy Tourist Services

Do a walking tour

In the summer, the oppressive heat can mean that Rome doesn’t feel very walkable, but during the milder spring months, a walking tour is a great way to see the city. You’re spoilt for choice when it comes to picking one but we love these free Rome walking tours which cover all most the famous attractions and neighbourhoods. Be sure to stop for a bite to eat in between all that walking at one the best brunch spots in Rome. 

 

 

If you’re planning a spring break but haven’t decided where to go yet, you might also find our guides to what to do in London in spring and what to do in Paris in spring useful.