Are you planning a trip to Rome and worried about the possibility of rain ruining your itinerary? Don’t let a few drops dampen your spirits! Rome has plenty of indoor activities and attractions to keep you entertained even when the weather is less than ideal. Here are some great options for what to do in Rome when it’s raining.
Museums
Rome is home to some of the most famous museums in the world, and they’re a great option for a rainy day. The Vatican Museums, with their extensive collection of art and artifacts, are a must-see for any visitor to Rome. The Capitoline Museums offer a glimpse into Rome’s ancient past, with exhibits showcasing everything from ancient sculpture to medieval paintings. For those interested in modern art, the MAXXI Museum is a great choice, with its contemporary art exhibitions and innovative architecture.
Vatican Museums
The Vatican Museums are enormous and can easily take up an entire day of your trip. Make sure to visit the Sistine Chapel, with its stunning ceiling painted by Michelangelo, and the Raphael Rooms, with their beautiful frescoes. You can also see the ancient Roman sculpture collection, the Egyptian collection, and the Gallery of Maps, which showcases detailed maps of Italy painted on the walls.
Capitoline Museums
The Capitoline Museums are located on the Capitoline Hill and offer beautiful views of Rome. The museums contain a vast collection of ancient Roman art and artifacts, including the famous bronze statue of Marcus Aurelius on horseback. Make sure to visit the Palazzo dei Conservatori and the Palazzo Nuovo, which house many of the museum’s most impressive exhibits.
Indoor Markets
Rome is famous for its outdoor markets, but if it’s raining, head indoors to explore some of the city’s covered markets. The Mercato Centrale in the Termini Station area is a great option, with its wide range of food vendors offering everything from fresh pasta to seafood. The Testaccio Market is another popular choice, with its focus on local and organic food products.
Mercato Centrale
The Mercato Centrale is a bustling indoor market with over 20 food vendors offering everything from pizza and pasta to fresh seafood and meat. It’s a great place to grab a quick bite to eat or to stock up on ingredients for a picnic or dinner at home. The market is open every day from 8am to midnight.
Testaccio Market
The Testaccio Market is a popular spot for foodies, with its focus on local and organic food products. You can find everything from fresh vegetables and fruit to artisanal cheeses and cured meats. There are also several stalls selling prepared foods, such as pizza and sandwiches, and a few bars where you can grab a drink.
Art Galleries
Rome has a thriving art scene, and there are plenty of galleries to explore on a rainy day. The Galleria Borghese is a must-see for art lovers, with its collection of works by Caravaggio, Bernini, and Raphael. The Chiostro del Bramante is another great option, with its innovative contemporary art exhibitions.
Galleria Borghese
The Galleria Borghese is home to some of the most famous works of art in the world, including Caravaggio’s “David with the Head of Goliath” and Bernini’s “Apollo and Daphne”. The museum is located in the beautiful Villa Borghese park and requires advance reservations, so make sure to book your tickets ahead of time.
Chiostro del Bramante
The Chiostro del Bramante is a beautiful Renaissance-era cloister that now serves as an art gallery. The gallery hosts temporary exhibitions of contemporary art, often by emerging artists. The space itself is worth a visit, with its beautiful architecture and peaceful atmosphere.
In conclusion, don’t let a little rain ruin your trip to Rome. With indoor activities like museums, markets, and art galleries, there’s plenty to do and see even when the weather isn’t cooperating. Enjoy your time in this beautiful city, rain or shine!
