5 Things to do in Rome on a rainy day

We get it—it’s frustrating to cancel your visit to the Imperial Forums or that long-awaited boat ride on the Tiber. But don’t worry: with museums, churches, cooking classes, shopping, wine tastings, and underground galleries, the Eternal City has plenty of great alternatives—even on a rainy day.

1. Visit a Church, a Basilica, or a Museum

Exploring the countless museums and churches in Rome is a great way to spend a few hours surrounded by history and culture. Just remember to book your tickets in advance to avoid waiting in the rain.

• Capitoline Museums: the world’s oldest public museum, established in 1471 when Pope Sixtus IV donated a collection of ancient bronzes to the people of Rome.
• Vatican Museums: next to St. Peter’s Basilica, this complex holds one of the largest art collections in the world. Don’t miss the Sistine Chapel and the papal apartments frescoed by Michelangelo and Raphael.
• MAXXI – National Museum of 21st Century Arts: a must for lovers of contemporary art, with exciting modern exhibitions.
• Vittoriano Complex: also known as the Altar of the Fatherland, home to the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and impressive art exhibitions.
• Ara Pacis: this altar commemorates Augustus’s victories and symbolizes peace in the Roman Empire.

2. Go Shopping on a Rainy Day

If the rain catches you by surprise, there are plenty of places to take cover in the capital. No matter where you are in the city, you’ll find shopping malls and indoor markets.

• La Rinascente: just steps from Piazza di Spagna, this 8-floor department store houses top fashion brands all under one roof.
• Galleria Alberto Sordi: perfect for spending an afternoon browsing shops, cafés, and bookstores while waiting out the rain.
• Eataly: a food lover’s paradise, offering Italian culinary excellence where you can lunch, dine, or enjoy an aperitif.
• Testaccio Market: with over 60 stalls, it’s a foodie hotspot you won’t want to miss.

3. Explore Rome’s Underground Galleries

Guided tours of Underground Rome offer a fascinating way to discover the city’s archaeological remains from over 2,800 years of history. Don’t waste a rainy day—explore what lies beneath the modern city. From basilicas to catacombs, you’ll quickly realize that what’s visible on the surface is just the tip of the iceberg.

4. Find Out If It Really Rains Inside the Pantheon

The Pantheon’s famous 9-meter-wide oculus has long been the subject of a fascinating legend. But is it true that rain doesn’t fall through the opening in the Pantheon’s dome? While visiting what was once a temple to all Roman gods, you’ll have the chance to find out for yourself!

5. Relax at One of Our Hotels in Rome

If you've tried everything and the rain still won’t stop, your best option is to simply relax at one of our hotels in Rome.

• B&B HOTEL Roma San Lorenzo Termini: close to Termini and Tiburtina stations
• B&B HOTEL Roma Tuscolana San Giovanni: the best choice for visiting the city center
• B&B HOTEL Roma Italia Viminale: in the heart of Rome
• B&B HOTEL Roma Trastevere: located in one of Rome’s liveliest neighborhoods
• B&B HOTEL Roma Pietralata Tiburtina: just 10 meters from Pietralata metro station
• B&B HOTEL Roma Fiumicino Aeroporto Fiera 1: ideal for resting right after your flight
• B&B HOTEL Roma Fiumicino Aeroporto Fiera 2: also great for those arriving at the airport
• B&B HOTEL Pomezia Roma: just minutes from major attractions like Cinecittà World and Zoomarine
• B&B HOTEL Pomezia Cortese: also close to Cinecittà World and Zoomarine