Rainy Days
Rome is blessed with a Mediterranean climate - hot temperature, humid days and perpetual clear skies. However, the Eternal City does not always have eternal sunshine - in fact, during rainy days in Rome, it pours as if there’s no letting up. However, after the short episodes of rain, the fair weather comes back as quickly as it left. Rain is more common in Rome - in truth, it rains more in Rome than in London! In a city where tourists thrive in visiting landmarks and outdoor gardens, many people can’t help but think that the things to do in Rome during rainy days are only but a few.
Throughout the year, rain is limited. Come November and December, the rain comes in major downpours and thunderstorms. If you’re travelling around this period, better fill your itinerary with activities that will keep you dry. Or you can buy a sturdy umbrella and a poncho to brave the Roman rain. Despite the abrupt and heavy entrance of rainy season in Rome, it shouldn’t stop you from enjoying the city’s beauty. A plus side of rainy days in Rome is that it clears the major attractions of large crowds - sometimes, you can enjoy a landmark or a fountain all to yourself! Some of Rome’s landmarks - the Pantheon included - still conduct tours despite the rain. Just clear proof the heavy downpour can’t really stop tourists from enjoying the sights of the Eternal City.
Vatican MuseumsGoing to Rome and not getting the chance to visit the Vatican Museum would be a disappointment. Rain should not stop you from discovering the wonderful delights inside this historically important museum. In fact, the Vatican Museum is a great place to visit during the rainy days - since it’s indoors, it’s a great place to wait for the rain to die down. Most Vatican tours make a stop at St. Peter’s Basilica, the Sistine Chapel, and the Pontifical Villas.
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The Vatican - one of the most visited attractions in Rome - is surely going to be packed on rainy days, but it's still worth it. Not only does this majestic building provide much needed shelter, you can spend three to four hours here in an engaging tour that will surely take your mind off Rome's rainy weather. Although a tour isn't necessary, it's the best way to learn about the impressive displays inside the museum. Art lovers will be endlessly fascinated by the Pinacoteca - 18 rooms filled with paintings displayed in chronological order - and the other extensive collections from famous artists like da Vinci, Giotto, Caravaggio, and Raphael. A special section in the museum - The Pio Clemente Museum - houses some of Rome and Greece's most famous art works. History and geography enthusiasts can stay a little longer in the Gallery of Geographic Maps - the topographic maps painted on the museum's walls is a sight not to be missed. tips
BASIC INFORMATION
Viale Vaticano, 00165 Roma RM, Italy
Full ticket: €17.00
Reduced Ticket: €8.00 Online Booking: €4.00 Click here to see other ticket price and pacakges. From Monday to Saturday
09.00 a.m. – 06.00 p.m. (final entry 04.00 p.m.) Every last Sunday of the month 09.00 a.m. – 02.00 p.m. (final entry 12.30 p.m.) Valle Aurelia Station
Maxxi MuseumDespite its rich ancient roots, Rome is a place that embraces development - it's the city where ancient and modern blend seamlessly. Not a far distance away from its historically significant landmarks is MAXXI - Museum of 21st Century Arts - an attraction which houses Rome's contemporary art and modern Italian collections. Make your Rome rainy days less glum by seeing impressive creations from talented artists.
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Museo Nazionale delle Arti del XXI Secolo is the first modern museum in the Eternal City. This cosmopolitan museum features collections that are not older than the 1900s. Designed by award winning architect Zaha Hadid, MAXXI is a commanding attraction in a city filled with ancient architectural masterpieces - the building's design is all about twisted oblongs that overlap and intersect with each other. Its 30,000 exhibit space is filled with paintings, sculptures and photos which bear a style so different from the ones found in ancient landmarks. At first sight, MAXXI is all about modern touches and advanced architecture -- the unique design that took inspiration from unwinding ribbons is anything but ordinary. However, despite its bold take on design, this building is a classy nod to traditional Roman architecture - its walls are made of Roman concrete. Building this landmark took 10 years. Today, it stands as concrete evidence of the progressive development of art in Italy's most art-filled city. Rainy days in Rome can get pretty glum - stay an hour or two in this museum to lift your spirits. The unique design of this building perpetually sheds light in its interior - even during the rainy days. While inside, the impressive displays of paintings, sculptures, photographs and other collections can surely take your focus off the foul weather. Some of the featured artworks belong to Letizia Batagglia, Mario Merz, Alighiero Boetti and William Kentridge. Another section - one dedicated to architecture and photography - displays creations of Francesco Clemente, Paolo Soleri, Luigi Nervi, and Carlo Scarpa. tips
BASIC INFORMATION
Via Guido Reni, 4/a, 00196 Roma RM, Italy
Full price= €9, Family Concessions= €9, Adults= €12
Tuesday - Wednesday: 11:00am - 7pm
Thursday: 11am - 10pm Friday: 11am - 7pm Saturday - Sunday: 11am - 7pm The ticket office closes one hour before the museum. CLOSURES Every Monday, May 1 and December 25 Flaminia/reni Light Rail Station
MattatoioThere are some places in Rome that are best discovered during the city's gloom, rainy days. One of these places is Mattatoio, also known as MACRO Testaccio. Home to contemporary art and great cultural celebrations, Macro Testaccio - which is also called Mattatoio because it's located in a revamped slaughterhouse - is a fusion of the modern and the traditional. Go here to enjoy some cool exhibits, musical performances and hip parties. Spending time in Mattatoio during a rainy day in Rome is a great way to lift the drooping touristy spirit.
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MACRO Testaccio - also known as Museum of Contemporary Art in Rome - is a place that features some of Eternal City's modern art creations from the 1960s onward. You can find this museum in two locations: in Via Nizza and in Testaccio. Have a glimpse of how Rome's art transformed over the years and see firsthand how creative Romans turned a depressing location into a booming attraction teeming with life and with color. Located in a rather secluded - almost interestingly eerie - spot, Mattatoia is a significant part of a cultural complex which also include the city of Rome's Accademia di Belle Arti and the University of Roma Tre's architecture department. Exhibits that often feature contemporary art are housed in the old building's spacious, industrial halls. This museum only opens when there's a scheduled exhibit - better check their website often for complete details. The museum in Testaccio, Rome has currently become more visible and active in the cultural and artistic scenes. During the day, the two pavilions of the former slaughterhouse serve as a venue for temporary exhibits. During the night, it becomes a popular place for those who want to enjoy both art and nightlife. With an ambiance that's both hip and fun, visiting MACRO during a rainy day in Rome is one of the best things you can do. tips
BASIC INFORMATION
Piazza Orazio Giustiniani, 4, 00153 Roma RM, Italy
Short Theater 2018 = Full price : € 10 / Reduced : € 7 (under 30 - over 60)
5 shows : full € 45; € 32 whole / 10 shows : € 80 in full; reduced € 65 .Ivory Coast: Identity and vitality of contemporary art Full € 6.00 Reduced € 5.00 Children aged 7 to 18 € 4.00 For citizens residing in the territory of Rome Entire Capital € 5.00 Reduced € 4.00 Children up to 6 years free *It is possible to book, by call center or site, for the individual the entry turn to the exhibition THE REDUCED TICKET IS VALID FOR: young people up to 26 years adults over 65 years teachers in activity upon presentation of declaration of the institution of origin, excluding university professors groups with reservations required (min 10 max 25 people) affiliated groups police and military forces with identification card FREE ENTRANCE IS VALID FOR children up to 6 years 1 companion for each group booked 1 guide for every 10 students disabled and accompanying disabled and accompanying person tourist guides Regione Lazio tour guides for the Lazio region interpreters accompanying the guides ICOM and ICROM card holder Tuesday to Sunday from 2.00 to 8.00 pm.
Monday closed. Admission is allowed up to 30 minutes before closing. Trastevere/pascarella Station
Explora Children MuseumNot all Rome museums are created equal - especially when it comes to keeping the attention of kids. Fortunately, just a short distance away from the famous Piazza del Popolo is Explora Children's Museum, a miniature, child-friendly city where kids can play pretend, interact with other young visitors, and be stimulated by various exhibits, displays, and activities. The Museo dei Bambini, a section at Explora, is a little town where kids can pretend to go shopping, do groceries, and visit a bank.
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Explora Children’s Museum is a place for young explorers where they are introduced to science and history in a fun, educational way. The museum lives by the motto “Living by Doing” and it continues to stay true to it by helping kids experience interactive daily activities such as working with different materials and tools. This museum offers an ideal setting that allows every age group to learn. Learning areas are divided into three sections - zero to three, three to six, and six to twelve. This assures parents that the activities given to kids are suited for them. Most of the activities in the museum are centered on the environment, economy, latest technology, and communications. Through interactive displays, children can freely discover new things. Temporary workshops and exhibits can be found on the first floor. Special activities for kids follow a schedule - they are usually available during Thursdays and Saturdays. There are no tour guides in the museum - visitors are allowed to choose activities and duration. Friendly English-speaking staff are ready to assist families especially with translating Iltalian instructions. tips
BASIC INFORMATION
Via Flaminia, 82, 00196 Roma RM, Italy
Child 1-3years old: € 5.00
Child 3 years and up: € 8.50 Adult: € 8.50 Group: € 7.50 Tuesday to Sunday, 4 visits of 1 hour and 45 minutes
1st round: 10:00 - 11.45am 2nd round12.00 - 1.45 pm 3rd round15.00 - 4.45 pm 4th Turn17.00 - 6.45pm CLOSING DAYS: every Monday, December 25th and January 1st, August 15th *, from August 12th to 16th 2019. (* always consult the calendar for general maintenance closure in the week of August) Ministero Marina Light Rail Station
Catacombs of San SebastianoThe historic Catacombs of St. Sebastian is famous for being the burial place of St. Peter and St. Paul in Rome. The gloomy ambiance of a rainy day in Rome gives a perfect opportunity to discover the interesting history that surround this iconic landmark.
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One of the popular beliefs in ancient Rome is that the dead should not mingle with the living. Thus, Romans often bury their deceased outside the city. Today, six kilometers from the city of Rome, right next to the famous trade route Via Appia Antica is one of the Christian world's oldest graveyards - Catacombs of San Sebastiano. The catacomb was named after St. Sebastian - a martyr who was also buried in this place. It is also known as Memoria Apostolorum in honor of the ancient apostles -St. Peter and St. Paul. Along with the Christian graves are pagan burial sites decorated with various mural paintings. During its early years, the catacombs were used extensively for both Christian and Pagan worship. Ever since it was erected, the catacombs stood as a mysterious attraction. The Catacombs of St. Sebastian are small but houses more than 60 burial chambers. Before exploring the historical tombs, make a stop at the Basilica of St. Sebastian. It isn't much - probably a little less grand than the ones you see in cathedrals - but taking a tour of this sacred place can alleviate the glumness of the tour you're about to take. Tours are available in every major language. Access is given to groups only. tips
BASIC INFORMATION
Via Appia Antica, 136, 00179 Roma RM, Italy
Full ticket € 8.00
Reduced ticket € 5.00 Entry: From Monday to Saturday 10.00am - 4.30pm
Last admission: 4.30pm - Closure 5.00pm Closing day: Sunday Other Closing days: 25 Dec. (Christmas of the Lord), January 1 (New Year). Annual closing period: December. Colli Albani Subway Station
St. Peter's BasilicaRome’s St. Peter’s Basilica is one of the holiest Catholic shrines in the world visited by thousands of patrons and pilgrims every month. This spectacular landmark - built upon St. Peter’s tomb - is a one of the must-see tourist attractions for anyone visiting the Eternal City.
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Behind the building’s grand design is a much grander history - the basilica stands as a concrete proof of unity and combined creativity. A short time after the fall of the first basilica, the most talented architects congregated to rebuild the sacred landmark. Inside its lavish interior tourists will see one of Michelangelo’s celebrated works - the Pieta. A visit to Rome is not complete without making a stop in this beloved building. While on location, stay a little in the St. Peter Piazza observing the locals in their rainy day agendas, and admiring the beauty of the plaza's fountains and the 140 symbolic statues in the pillar of the Basilica. See one of Rome's most important relics - St. Peter's Baldachin - which is believed to be built just above Apostle Peter's tomb. The highlight of this tour would be the visit to St. Peter's dome. The view on top of St. Peter's Basilica is an attraction in its own - the panorama offered by the vintage structures and beautiful landscape is nothing short of breathtaking. Located near the Sistine Chapel and the Vatican Museums, the basilica and its surrounding landscapes is nothing short of breathtaking. Entrance is free so expect long queues. Observe strict adherence to dress code. tips
BASIC INFORMATION
Piazza San Pietro, 00120 Città del Vaticano, Vatican City
Free
Winter October - March: 7am - 6:30pm
Summer April - September: 7am - 7pm Risorgimento - San Pietro Light Rail Station
Capitoline MuseumsRome doesn’t run out of museums - these historical landmarks in the Eternal City just keep on giving. So if you find yourself stuck in the heart of the city during a rainy day in Rome, don’t fret - there’s always something new to see like the Capitoline Museums. This historical attraction cradled on top of Capitoline Hill is one of the world’s oldest museums - the structures have been in existence since 1471. Inside the majestic museums are impressive collections ranging from the iconic Lupa Capitolona (Capitoline Wolf) sculpture, and Galata Morente.
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Take the entrance near Palazzo dei Conservatori and be amazed by the fascinating sculptures that fill the first floor. The courtyard is riddled with impressive masonry masterpieces such as the mammoth head, hand and foot. The main items in the first floor include Lupa Capitolina, bronze sculpture Spinario and the famous Medusa of Gian Lorenzo Bernini. Upstairs, you will see some of the world renowned - and definitely towering - sculptures from famous Italian artists. Among the collections, The Burial of St. Patronilla by Guercino, and Pietro de Cortona’s Rape of the Sabine Women stand out the most. Other notable creations include The Fortune Teller, and St. John the Baptist. While inside, take a pause to enjoy the panoramic sights from the top of the museum - the views from Capitoline Museums are incredible. After touring Capitoline Museums, head over to nearby Palazzo Nuovo. Home to some of Rome’s most identifiable sculptures - Galata Morente, and Capitoline Venus included - the place is a great spot to relax and enjoy art. tips
BASIC INFORMATION
Piazza del Campidoglio, 1, 00186 Roma RM, Italy
€12/€10 including entry to exhibitions
Monday - Sunday: 9:30am - 7:30pm
Venezia Light Rail Station
Castel Sant'AngeloCastel Sant’ Angelo, one of Rome’s most iconic landmarks, represents a myriad of things - it stands as a museum, a palace, a fortress, a hideaway and a monument for Emperor Hadrian. Historically significant structures can be found all over Rome but none seems to represent so eloquently the city’s impressive transformation throughout the years as much as Castel Sant’ Angelo.
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At first glance, the commanding structure nestled near the banks of the Tiber River seems to be nothing more than a beautiful architectural masterpiece. But beyond Castel Sant’ Angelo’s impressive facade is a history filled with death, and wars. Built around 123-139 AD, the castle has been a witness to many wars fought within Rome. Apart from history, the castle is also famous for its legend represented by the eye-catching statue of Michael the Archangel found at the peak of Castel Sant’ Angelo. Many believed that the angel appeared on top of the structure to put an end to the 590-year plague that made Rome suffer. Today, this famous Rome attraction houses the Museo Nazionale di Castel Sant’ Angelo which holds an extensive collection of sculptures, paintings, military memorabilia and ancient firearms which date back to the 13th century. Many of these medieval firearms were used by protectors of the castle who utilized the secret passage Passetto di Borgo to protect the Pope and the Vatican during times of danger. Explore the castle’s upper floors and prepare to be impressed by the luxurious Renaissance interiors which include the sophisticated Sala Paolina which comes with frescoes of Alexander the Great’s life. Don’t miss the famous castle terraces mentioned in the immortal play Tosca provides breathtaking views of the city. Visiting Castel Sant’ Angelo and learning about its history gives any tourist a renewed appreciation for Italy’s “Eternal City.” A trip to this iconic castle is not only a treat to the eyes, it’s one that will stay in memory for a long time. tips
BASIC INFORMATION
Lungotevere Castello, 50, 00193 Roma RM, Italy
Every day from 9.00 am to 11.00 am: full price € 7.50, subsidized € 2.00 (from 18 to 25 years);
From 11.00 am to the closing of the monument: full price € 15.00, subsidized € 2.00 (from 18 to 25 years); Thursday - Sunday from 7.30pm to 11.00pm: full price € 7.50, reduced rate € 2.00 (between 18 and 25) Monday - Sunday: 9am - 7:30pm
The ticket office closes at 6.30 pm Closed on January 1st, May 1st and December 25th, except for special openings arranged by the Ministry for cultural assets and activities Risorgimento - San Pietro Light Rail Station
Auditorium Parco della MusicaRome is filled with spectacular products of architecture both from the old and from the modern. One of the most commanding contemporary landmarks in the Eternal City is the Auditorium Parco Della Musica - Rome’s first cultural center. Designed by world-renowned architect Renzo Piano, this ambitious creation features three spacious concert halls in a 3000-seat amphitheater. During a rainy day tour of Rome, take the chance to see this enormous modern-day wonder 50 years in the making.
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The auditorium is such a stand out thanks to its unique design - the exterior is organic and created to resemble that of a beetle shell. The largest hall - Sta Cecilia Hall - is famous for its impressive acoustics. The hall features innovative acoustic panels that can only be seen in a few theatres throughout the world. The acoustic panels are made up of shells and American cherry wood that provides the audience with a remarkable acoustic experience. The second hall - Sinopi Hall - is built to be a venue of chamber music performances. The smallest room - Petrassi Hall - is made as a place for small concerts. The Sta. Cecilia National Academy - the group in charge with arranging concert schedules - can be found in Auditorium Parco della Musica. The auditorium also hosts prestigious events such as the National Film Festival. Tours around the auditorium are offered daily. The 60-minute tour - which comes in English, French, and Italian - aims to inform visitors about the significance and history of this great landmark. Tours are available throughout the year except for August. tips
BASIC INFORMATION
Via Pietro de Coubertin, 30, 00196 Roma RM, Italy
Check here to see ticket prices.
Winter time
from October to March from 11am to 6pm. Sunday and holidays from 10am to 6pm. Summer hours from April to October from 11am to 8pm. Sunday and holidays from 10am to 8pm. Apollodoro Light Rail Station
Gelateria FassiRome is synonymous with mouth-watering gelato - the brightly colored stores featuring brightly-colored treats are anything but unnoticeable. When you're in Rome, you must try the gelato - yes, even when it's raining. Rainy days in Rome should not stop you from trying out some of the most outrageous gelato flavors that are only available in the Eternal City. Don't know where to start? Take your mind off the drizzling rain by visiting Fassi Gelataria - creators of the best gourmet gelato in town.
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Fassi Gelataria is one of Rome's oldest gelato stores. Established in 1880 by Giacomo Fassi and his wife Giuseppina, it created some of the flavors that Roman children and adults came to love. As one of the best gelaterias in Rome, Fassi Gelataria provides customers with a different gelato experience - anyone who enters in the store just can't help but fall in love with the sophisticated flavors offered here. Everything here invites you to eat - from the festive fruit-based pastries, to rich chocolate gelatos, to creative ice cream cakes. Those who don't fancy ice creams will still love this place - their unique tiramisu, refreshing sorbets, and special tartufo can effortlessly convince anyone to come back for more. Fassi Gelataria is a gem - most travel sites and itineraries don't include it on their "best gelato stores to try in Rome" list. Fortunately, locals are such big fans of this shop - they'll be the one suggesting this place to you. This classic gelataria is nothing short of cozy and comforting. One great thing about this shop is their prices - three scoops of ice cream only cost USD 1.50 A proper warning should be given: you may come back for another serving. The delicious cold treats are served by warm, friendly people - the servers are always attentive to each customer. Their care is also reflected on their treats - most are handmade and done in a traditional fashion. What greater way to brighten up your rainy day mood than by enjoying a heavenly serving of ice cream? tips
BASIC INFORMATION
Via Principe Eugenio, 65, 00185 Roma RM, Italy
Sunday - Thursday: 12pm - 12am
Friday & Saturday: 12pm - 12:30am Vittorio Emanuele Subway Station
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Date Modified:03/10/2019