Rome, the Eternal City, is known for its rich history, architecture, and art. Throughout the centuries, Rome has been a center of the world’s most magnificent art collections. The city boasts incredible museums, each with its own unique collection of artifacts, paintings, sculptures, and historical objects that reflect the city’s past. In this post, we will explore the best museums in Rome that are a must-visit for art and history lovers. Whether you’re interested in ancient Roman history, Renaissance art, or contemporary works, Rome has something to offer for everyone. Let’s dive in and discover the best museums in the Eternal City.

The 5 Must Visit Museums in Rome

1. Percy Jackson and Ancient Myths Tour at the Capitoline Museums With Alessandra
2. Combo Weekend Vatican Museums and Colosseum
3. Civitavecchia Shore Excursion Rome Colosseum and Vatican Museums All Included
4. Vatican Museum Sistine Chapel St Peters Basilica
5. Skip the Line National Roman Museum and Diocletian Thermal Baths Walking Tour

The 5 Must Visit Museums in Rome

1. Percy Jackson and Ancient Myths Tour at the Capitoline Museums With Alessandra

If you’re a fan of Percy Jackson, you won’t want to miss the specially designed tour of the Capitoline Museums with Alessandra. Led by a kid-friendly art historian, this family-friendly tour offers a unique perspective on ancient Greek and Roman mythology. With morning and afternoon tour options, you can choose what best fits your schedule. In addition to gaining insight into the world’s oldest museum complex, you’ll also have the chance to participate in games and scavenger hunts designed for young travelers. Meet your guide just outside the museum’s entrance by the statue of the man. This tour includes a Blue Badge guide, a local guide, a professional art historian guide, food and drinks, and gratuities.

2. Combo Weekend Vatican Museums and Colosseum

Discover the ancient wonders of Rome with the Combo Weekend Vatican Museums and Colosseum tour. This full-day tour includes admission tickets to two of Rome’s most famous landmarks – the Vatican Museums and the Colosseum. With a professional guide, you’ll explore the Colosseum, where you’ll learn about the ancient gladiators and watch the stories of the past come to life. After that, the tour will head to the Vatican Museums, where you’ll see incredible works of art and visit the stunning Sistine Chapel. You’ll also explore the Roman Forum and the Palatine Hill, where you’ll get a glimpse of Rome’s history and culture. The tour includes pickup and drop-off services, as well as lunch at a local restaurant. With a maximum of 20 participants, this tour guarantees a more personalized experience. Book your Combo Weekend Vatican Museums and Colosseum tour now and experience the best of Rome’s ancient treasures.

3. Civitavecchia Shore Excursion Rome Colosseum and Vatican Museums All Included

This private full-day tour offers a comprehensive sightseeing experience of Rome’s top attractions. With front-door pickup from your hotel, cruise port, or airport, you’ll be transported in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle to visit the city’s most iconic landmarks, including the Colosseum, the Vatican Museums, Piazza Venezia, the Pantheon, the Spanish Steps, and the Trevi Fountain.

Skip-the-line admission tickets and guided tours of the Colosseum and Vatican Museums are included, allowing you to beat the crowds and maximize your time exploring the sights. Your personal driver-guide will provide informative commentary throughout the day, and you’ll have the flexibility to create your own itinerary and tailor the tour to your interests.

Enjoy a hassle-free day of sightseeing with lunch provided, and all gratuities included. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to see the best of Rome in a single day with this private chauffeured tour.

4. Vatican Museum Sistine Chapel St Peters Basilica

Visitors to Rome should not miss the chance to visit the Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel, and St. Peter’s Basilica. This comprehensive guided tour includes skip-the-line entrance tickets, an expert guide, and hotel pickup and drop-off. The meeting point is at Viale Vaticano 100, next to Caffè Vaticano on top of the staircase. The tour begins with a visit to the famous Sistine Chapel, which includes a 20-minute stay. The next stop is the Cortile del Belvedere for another 20-minute visit. The tour also includes entrances to the Vatican Museums and St. Peter’s Basilica, as well as gratuites. Please note that appropriate dress is required, with covered knees and shoulders. Large bags are also not allowed inside. Visitors should also have a moderate level of physical fitness, as the tour includes a lot of walking. If plans change, you may cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

5. Skip the Line National Roman Museum and Diocletian Thermal Baths Walking Tour

If you’re a history enthusiast, the National Roman Museum in Rome is a must-visit. And, to make your visit even more enjoyable, you can book a private or small-group 2-hour tour which offers skip-the-line entry to the museum. One of the highlights of the museum is the ‘Boxer at Rest’ sculpture along with other sculptural masterpieces such as the ‘Discus Thrower’ and the ‘Sleeping Hermaphrodite’. You can also upgrade your tour to include a visit to the Baths of Diocletian which were once the most luxurious public baths in Rome. By choosing this tour option, you’ll also get to bypass the long lines at the museum and explore it alongside a knowledgeable local guide.

Most Frequently Asked Questions About The Museums of Rome

Italy’s capital city, Rome, boasts an astonishing array of museums and art galleries, making it a paradise for art and history enthusiasts. If you’re planning a visit to Rome, you may have some questions regarding the museums present in the city. Below are the most frequently asked questions about the museums of Rome:

1. What is the best museum to visit in Rome?

Rome is home to some of the best museums in the world. Of these, the Vatican Museum and the Borghese Gallery are the most popular among tourists. Both have an extensive collection of sculptures, paintings, and ancient artifacts, and offer stunning architecture and spectacular views. The Vatican Museum is a must-visit attraction for art lovers and history enthusiasts. The museum displays works from various periods, including ancient Greek and Roman artifacts, paintings by great masters like Raphael and Leonardo da Vinci, and a splendid collection of Egyptian art. On the other hand, the Borghese Gallery, situated in the heart of Rome, houses one of the most extensive collections of Italian and Renaissance art. The gallery consists of two floors that showcase sculptures, paintings, and architecture from the 15th to 18th centuries by artists like Bernini, Canova, and Caravaggio.

2. Are there any free admission museums in Rome?

Yes, there are several free admission museums in Rome that you can visit. These include the National Roman Museum, which is home to an extensive collection of ancient Roman artifacts, the MACRO Museum of Contemporary Art, and the Gallery of Modern Art. Additionally, the first Sunday of every month, many museums, including the Vatican Museum, offer free admission.

3. Do I need to book tickets in advance for museums in Rome?

To save time and avoid long lines, it is highly recommended to book your museum tickets in advance, especially for popular attractions like the Vatican Museum and the Borghese Gallery. Most of the museums in Rome allow you to book tickets online or through their official websites. If you have planned to explore the Vatican Museum, consider booking a tour guide, as it provides you with VIP-style access to less crowded areas, and you can learn more about the history and significance of each artwork.

4. What are the opening hours of the museums in Rome?

The opening hours of the museums in Rome vary depending on the season and the day of the week. Generally, the museums are open from 9 am to 7 pm, but some museums like the Borghese Gallery and the Vatican Museum have specific visiting hours, and they remain closed on specific days of the week.

5. Is photography allowed in museums of Rome?

Photography is usually allowed in most of Rome’s museums, but the use of tripods and flash is prohibited. However, some of the museums have a strict no-photography policy, including the Sistine Chapel and the Borghese Gallery.

6. Can I bring food and drinks inside museums in Rome?

Most of the museums in Rome have a strict no-food and no-drinks policy inside their premises. However, some of them, like the National Roman Museum, have a cafe or a restaurant where you can relax and have a meal.

7. Are the museums in Rome wheelchair accessible?

Most of the museums in Rome are wheelchair accessible, but due to the ancient architecture of some buildings, there may be some limitations. It is recommended that visitors with disabilities contact the museum in advance to ensure that their visit will be enjoyable.

8. What is the dress code for the museums in Rome?

There is no formal dress code of the museums in Rome, but it is recommended to dress modestly and respectfully. It is also recommended not to wear revealing outfits as it considered disrespectful in some religious and historical sites.

9. Can I visit multiple museums in a day?

Yes, you can. In fact, most of the museums in Rome offer a combination ticket to visit two or more museums at discounted rates. However, it is recommended not to plan too many visits in one day, as this may lead to exhaustion and less enjoyable visits.

How to find the best museums in Rome

Rome is one of the most interesting and culturally significant cities in the world. With its history dating back to ancient times, there are countless museums to visit and explore. However, with so many choices, it can be overwhelming to decide which museums to put on your must-see list. In this guide, we will walk you through how to find the best museums in Rome and make the most out of your visit.

1. Start online

The first step in finding the best museums in Rome is to start researching online. This is the easiest way to get an overview of the many museums available in Rome. Search engines like Google can be useful, but it’s also worth considering online travel guides like TripAdvisor or Lonely Planet, or museum-specific websites like The Vatican Museums or Musei Capitolini. These websites often provide detailed information on the museums, including admission fees, opening hours, and exhibitions.

2. Check out museum passes

If you plan to visit several museums in Rome, you might want to consider purchasing a museum pass. These passes allow you to visit multiple museums for a discounted price. The most popular pass is the Roma Pass, which includes free entry to two museums and discounted entry to many more. It also includes free public transport for the duration of the pass. The Omnia Vatican and Rome Pass is another good option for exploring Rome, with free entry to Vatican City museums and public transport plus discounts at other museums.

3. Consider your interests

When looking for the best museums to visit in Rome, it’s important to consider your interests. Rome has museums covering a wide range of topics, from ancient Roman history to contemporary art. Think about what you are interested in and tailor your museum visits accordingly. For example, if you enjoy ancient history, you might want to visit the Colosseum and the Roman Forum. If you are interested in art, you might want to visit the Galleria Borghese or the Vatican Museums.

4. Ask for recommendations

If you are visiting Rome with a local tour guide or staying at a hotel, don’t hesitate to ask for museum recommendations. Locals often have unique insights and can recommend hidden gems that may not be as well-known to tourists. Hotel staff are also usually happy to recommend museums and other attractions in the area.

5. Read reviews

Before finalizing your museum list, take some time to read reviews from other visitors. TripAdvisor or Yelp are great places to find firsthand reviews from visitors who have experienced the museum. This can be especially useful to get an idea of wait times, the quality of the exhibitions, and other practical information. However, keep in mind that everyone has different tastes and opinions, so use reviews as a guide rather than an absolute truth.

6. Plan your visit

Once you have narrowed down your museum list, it’s a good idea to plan your visits in advance. This will help you make the most of your time and see everything that you want to. Consider factors like opening hours, location, and transportation. Some museums are closed on certain days or have shorter opening hours, so make sure to plan accordingly. If you are visiting several museums in one day, consider the distance between them and the best way to get around (public transport or taxi).

7. Be prepared

Finally, make sure you are prepared for your museum visit. This includes wearing comfortable shoes and clothing suitable for the weather. Bring a reusable water bottle and snacks to keep you fueled throughout the day. Keep in mind that many museums have strict rules about bags and photography, so check the museum’s website in advance to avoid any surprises.

Conclusion

Finding the best museums in Rome requires some planning and research, but the effort is worth it. By using the tips above, you can explore the amazing collections of art, history and science that Rome has to offer. Remember to take your time to appreciate the art, history and culture that surrounds you, and enjoy the beauty that Rome has to offer.