Rome is a city that enchants in every season, but anyone who has visited at least once knows that the weather can be unpredictable. Even in the Eternal City, famous for its fiery sunsets and outdoor strolls, a rainy day can happen. The good news is that there’s no reason to postpone your trip: when it rains in Rome, opportunities multiply, because the city is home to an immense heritage of museums, churches, galleries, and fascinating indoor attractions.
In this article, you’ll discover what to do in Rome on a rainy day, with plenty of useful tips on must-see museums and alternative activities to enjoy the city, even under an umbrella.
What to Do in Rome When It Rains
If you’re wondering what to see in Rome on a rainy day, rest assured that the possibilities are endless. The city offers a wide choice of indoor activities that go beyond a simple museum visit. You can go shopping in covered galleries, explore historic indoor markets, get lost in independent bookstores, or stop at a literary café to soak in the authentic atmosphere of the capital.
At the same time, Rome boasts some of the world’s most famous museums, perfect for turning a gray day into an enriching cultural experience.
Must-See Museums in Rome on a Rainy Day
The Vatican Museums and the Sistine Chapel
When it rains, one of the most popular destinations is the Vatican Museums. With their kilometers of galleries, they host extraordinary collections ranging from Egyptian art to contemporary masterpieces. The highlight is, without a doubt, the Sistine Chapel, with Michelangelo’s breathtaking frescoes.
The Borghese Gallery
If you’re looking for an elegant museum that isn’t overwhelming, the Borghese Gallery is the perfect choice. Located inside Villa Borghese, the gallery houses masterpieces by Caravaggio, Bernini, and Canova. Its intimate and welcoming atmosphere makes it ideal for a rainy-day visit.
The Colosseum and the Covered Areas of the Roman Forum
Many people think the Colosseum and Roman Forum are best visited in sunny weather. In reality, much of the Colosseum can be explored even in the rain, thanks to covered areas and the underground spaces recently opened to the public. The same goes for the Roman Forum, where indoor museum sections tell the story of Ancient Rome.
The Capitoline Museums
Another excellent option is the Capitoline Museums, located on Piazza del Campidoglio. Considered the oldest public museums in the world, they combine classical and Renaissance art with spectacular views of Rome—all to be admired comfortably indoors.
MAXXI and MACRO
For contemporary art lovers, Rome offers two unmissable stops: MAXXI (National Museum of 21st Century Arts), designed by Zaha Hadid, and MACRO (Museum of Contemporary Art of Rome). Both feature installations, photography, and temporary exhibitions in dynamic, modern spaces.
Alternative Indoor Activities in Rome
Shopping in Rome on a Rainy Day
A great idea is indoor shopping. You can stroll through the historic Galleria Alberto Sordi on Via del Corso, or head to shopping centers such as Euroma2, Porta di Roma, or CinecittàDue, which feature shops, restaurants, and cinemas.
Exploring Rome’s Churches and Basilicas
Rome is an open-air museum, but its churches also make perfect rainy-day destinations. Among the most fascinating are San Pietro in Vincoli, home to Michelangelo’s Moses; Santa Maria del Popolo, with paintings by Caravaggio; and the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore, one of the four papal basilicas.
Covered Markets and Roman Cuisine
For an authentic experience, explore Rome’s covered markets, such as Mercato Trionfale or Testaccio Market. Here you can taste traditional Roman dishes, buy fresh produce, and escape the rain in a lively and colorful atmosphere.
Bookstores and Literary Cafés
For a relaxing break, Rome offers beautiful independent bookstores and literary cafés. One of the best-known is Caffè Letterario Ostiense, ideal for reading a book, sipping hot tea, and watching the city flow by under the rain.
Rome with Kids on a Rainy Day
If you’re traveling to Rome with children, don’t worry if the weather isn’t favorable—there are plenty of indoor activities. One of the most loved is Explora, Rome’s Children’s Museum, offering interactive workshops and educational games. The Bioparco also has indoor areas to discover animals and habitats, while immersive exhibitions dedicated to Van Gogh or Monet (often hosted in different venues) captivate both kids and adults.
Why Visit Rome in the Rain
Many travelers ask: Is it worth visiting Rome when it rains? The answer is a resounding yes. The city takes on a special charm in the rain: the wet cobblestones of historic squares, domes reflected in puddles, and the intimate atmosphere of alleys create a scene that few have the chance to admire. Plus, the museums and indoor activities make every day full of discovery and excitement.
Practical Tips for Visiting Rome in the Rain
Here are some practical tips to explore Rome on rainy days without stress:
- Bring a compact umbrella and waterproof jacket to move easily from one site to another.
- Take advantage of the rain to visit popular attractions: lines are often shorter.
- Book museum tickets in advance to avoid waiting outside.
- Choose indoor guided tours that include skip-the-line access: they’re a convenient and fast solution.
Getting Around Rome in the Rain
The best way to enjoy Rome when the weather isn’t ideal is to choose a comfortable, covered means of transport that allows you to get around stress-free. The hop-on hop-off service by Green Line Tours is the perfect solution: you can get on and off near the main attractions without worrying about traffic or rain.
Book your ticket online with GLT and enjoy the freedom of experiencing Rome at your own pace—even on rainy days.
