Rome is a city that captures hearts under the sun… and also under the rain. If a downpour surprises you during your trip, don’t worry—there are plenty of things to do in Rome when it rains that will let you enjoy the city without getting wet. From world-class museums to covered monuments and panoramic bus tours, here’s how to make the most of every minute in the Eternal City, rain or shine.
Rain in Rome is no obstacle
Rain in Rome may seem like an inconvenience, but it’s actually a chance to see the city from a different perspective—calmer, quieter, and more intimate. Here are some top ideas to enjoy Rome even on grey days.
Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel, and St. Peter’s Basilica
A perfect way to escape the rain is by visiting the Vatican, where you can spend hours indoors exploring some of the world’s greatest artistic treasures. The Vatican Museums feature masterpieces by Raphael, Caravaggio, and many more. The Sistine Chapel, with its famous ceiling painted by Michelangelo, is simply unmissable. And right next door, the magnificent St. Peter’s Basilica welcomes you with its grand baroque architecture and monumental dome.
Borghese Gallery
Located in the heart of Villa Borghese, this palace-turned-museum is a gem you can enjoy regardless of the weather. The Borghese Gallery showcases sculptures by Bernini, paintings by Caravaggio and Titian, and one of Rome’s most stunning private collections. Be sure to book your Borghese Gallery tickets in advance, as space is limited. If the rain eases up, take a stroll through the Villa Borghese gardens afterward.
Rome Sightseeing Bus – Roma City Tour
Not in the mood for walking in the rain? Hop on the Hop on Hop off Roma with Roma City Tour. Our sightseeing buses feature a retractable roof that covers the upper deck when it rains, so you can continue enjoying the best panoramic views without getting wet. Plus, you’ll have access to an audio guide in your language while comfortably touring the city. Have you heard of the Path of Enlightenment, inspired by Dan Brown’s novel Angels & Demons? With our sightseeing bus, you can explore all the locations from the novel—and without getting wet!
Quirinal Stables
Once the Pope’s stables, this space has been transformed into one of Rome’s top cultural venues. The Quirinal Stables host rotating exhibitions of art, photography, and design in a majestic setting. It’s the perfect rainy-day escape if you’re looking for culture in a quieter, off-the-beaten-path location.
No rain gets into the Pantheon
One of Rome’s most iconic monuments is also one of its most fascinating in the rain. The Pantheon has an open oculus in its domed ceiling, yet thanks to clever engineering, rainwater doesn’t pool inside. The floor’s subtle slope and hidden drainage system keep it dry. Don’t skip this stop when it rains—watching the rain fall through the oculus is a magical experience.
National Roman Museum – Palazzo Massimo
If you’re curious about ancient Roman life, this museum is a must. The Palazzo Massimo, part of the National Roman Museum, houses classical sculptures, mosaics, frescoes, and everyday objects from ancient Rome. Its remarkable collection and beautiful historic building make it an excellent rainy-day option.
Rome in the rain: a different kind of beauty
As you can see, the question of what to do in Rome when it rains has many wonderful answers. Whether you’re exploring its art, history, or covered landmarks, the Italian capital never loses its magic—even in a downpour. And if you’re looking for comfort, we recommend seeing the city from our Hop on Hop off Roma bus.
Rome is always worth it… even with an umbrella! ☔
