Art and Culture in Rome: Top 10 Experiences for Art Enthusiasts
From ancient sculptures and Renaissance masterpieces to contemporary pieces – Rome is a paradise for art lovers. We gathered tips from the Lufthansa community and put together ten recommendations for an art-inspired trip to the Eternal City
1. The Vatican Museums & the Sistine Chapel
Art lovers cannot miss the Vatican Museums. Here, you'll find one of the most impressive collections in the world with over 20,000 exhibits – from ancient art to Renaissance masterpieces and modern creations. The absolute highlight? The Sistine Chapel with Michelangelo's frescoes, including the world-famous ceiling painting “The Creation of Adam”, which shows God bringing Adam to life with an outstretched finger. Also worth seeing: Raphael's “Stanzas”, including the mural “The School of Athens”. It is best to book an early or evening tour to avoid the crowds and enjoy the art in peace.
2. The Timeless Magic of the Pantheon
The Pantheon, an ancient temple converted into a church, has been a testament to Roman architecture for almost 2,000 years. The enormous dome with its coffered ceiling is still considered an architectural masterpiece today, while the oculus, a round opening in the center of the dome, creates a fascinating play of light inside that varies depending on the time of day. The Pantheon also houses the tomb of one of the greatest artists of all time, Raphael.
3. Art and Eating Near the Trevi Fountain
Italian maximalism reigns in the Don Pasquale restaurant. Guests can look forward to enjoying the works of art on their plates, and also the dozens of paintings and drawings that adorn the walls. Water pours into the Fontana di Trevi just a few minutes away by foot. The fountain is regarded as an outstanding work from the late Baroque period. The figures – sea horses, Tritons, and the sea god Oceanus – seem to rise from the waves. Tip: the fountain is particularly magical in the early morning or late evening – and there are fewer tourists as well.
4. Palazzo Bonaparte: Historic Palace Housing Modern Art
The Palazzo Bonaparte, an elegant Renaissance building with Baroque elements, regularly hosts exhibitions – from immersive multimedia productions and historical shows to retrospectives of important modern artists. Visitors can currently view 100 works by the Norwegian artist Edvard Munch. The exhibition runs until June 2, 2025.
5. Enjoy Art in the Galleria Borghese
In the middle of the idyllic Villa Borghese park, the Galleria Borghese is home to some of the most beautiful works of art in the world. Caravaggio's dramatic paintings, Titian's haunting portraits and Raphael's graceful paintings cast a spell over visitors. Don't miss Gian Lorenzo Bernini's sculptures – notably “Apollo and Daphne” – which are made of marble, but still appear incredibly dynamic. Access to the museum is strictly regulated, so be sure to book your tickets early!
6. Draw Castel Sant'Angelo, Colosseum & Co
Discover your artistic side: instead of snapping photos with your smartphone, grab a pad and pencil or charcoal pen and draw Rome's most iconic sights. Enjoy a few moments of deceleration and create your own souvenirs. The best spots for drawing? For the Colosseum, we recommend the view from Oppio Hill, while budding artists have a wonderful view of the Roman Forum from Colle Palatino. The Parco della Mole Adriana gardens surround Castel Sant'Angelo and offer enough peace and quiet to draw the fortress. Sit at the foot of the Spanish Steps by the Fontana della Barcaccia fountain and sketch the landmark. Just around the corner is the Antico Caffè Greco, which Goethe and E.T.A. Hoffmann frequented. Definitely worth a visit, and inspiration is guaranteed!
7. Testaccio: Modern Works, Pasta, and Street Art
For a modern art experience, we recommend the Testaccio district not far from the Colosseum. The former Mattatoio slaughterhouse is now a hotspot for contemporary art, hosting temporary exhibitions and performances. Making pasta is an artform that is taken extremely seriously in Italy – and one that you can easily learn! You can also learn to master the holy trinity of Roman pasta sauces – cacio e pepe, amatriciana and carbonara – in courses in Testaccio. There is also cool street art to discover in this south-western district – colorful murals transform the streets into an open-air gallery.
8. MAXXI: Rome's Museum of Modern Art
Visitors to the Eternal City can indulge in the golden past and also enjoy the present. Take in the modern art, photography, and exhibitions on architecture at the MAXXI – Museo nazionale delle arti del XXI secolo. Speaking of architecture: the building alone is impressive! The futuristic design by architect Zaha Hadid uses lots of glass and smooth walls made of exposed concrete, and is an exciting contrast to the city's historic palaces.
9. Created by Michelangelo: Capitoline Museums
The Capitoline Museums are considered to be the oldest in Rome. Their foundation dates back to 1471, when Pope Sixtus IV donated a number of bronze statues to the Roman people, which were kept on the Capitoline Hill. There were initially two buildings overlooking the Roman Forum: the Senators' Palace and the Conservators' Palace, which were rebuilt in the 16th century according to Michelangelo's plans. Today, the museums house important sculptures such as the Dying Gaul and the equestrian statue of Marcus Aurelius. Antiquity and the Renaissance meet here.
10. Palazzo Doria Pamphilj: Enjoy Art in an Aristocratic Ambience
The huge palace of the aristocratic Doria-Pamphilj family is home to a museum of the same name, the Galleria Doria Pamphilj. This is a real insider tip: Mass tourism doesn’t seem to have discovered it yet. Masterpieces by early Baroque painters such as Caravaggio and masters of the High Renaissance such as Titian and Raphael hang in the magnificent halls. Do not miss the portrait of Pope Innocent X, who came from the Pamphilj dynasty, painted by Diego Velázquez.
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