Our Guide to the most romantic things to do in Rome!

Let’s be real, the most insanely romantic things to do in Rome aren’t on a crowded tour map. They’re in the golden-hour glow that gilds a hidden piazza, the shared whisper of a wish at a silent fountain, and the taste of perfect pasta in a tucked-away trattoria. This is your guide to the Rome that couples dream of, the one that exists just for the two of you. (And once you’ve fallen in love with these spots, be sure to read our ‘Rome Itinerary 4 Days’ guide to weave them all together into the perfect romantic getaway!)

1. Catch Sunrise at the Orange Garden (Giardino degli Aranci)

When: Open daily; aim for sunrise (approx. 6:30 AM, varies by season)

Where: Aventine Hill (Piazza Pietro d’Illiria, 1)

Cost: Absolutely Free

This is the romantic spot you’ve been dreaming of. Perched on the serene Aventine Hill, the Orange Garden offers a front-row seat to Rome’s most breathtaking sunrise, far from the tourist crowds. It’s a moment of pure, shared magic.

Why It’s Unforgettably Romantic:

• The Ultimate View: A stunning, panoramic backdrop of the city with St. Peter’s Dome taking center stage.
• A Sensory Escape: Stroll through lush paths lined with fragrant orange trees and vibrant flowers.
• Tranquil Intimacy: Experience a rare, quiet moment with your partner that feels worlds away from the city bustle.
• Perfect Photo-Op: The golden morning light creates a dreamy, soft glow for incredible couple’s photos.

Your Pro-Tip: Turn it into a perfect breakfast date! Grab fresh cornetti (Italian croissants) and espresso from a local café on your way up.

Stay in the Moment: For the ultimate romantic getaway, book a nearby hotel on CuddlyNest and use code DISCCN15 for 15% off your stay.

2. Peek Through Rome’s Most Romantic Keyhole

When: Accessible 24/7 | Where: Piazza dei Cavalieri di Malta, Aventine Hill | Cost: Free

Ready for a moment of pure magic? Tucked away on Aventine Hill is an unassuming green door. Peek through its keyhole, and you’ll be rewarded with one of the most breathtaking and secret views in the world: the dome of St. Peter’s Basilica, perfectly framed at the end of a manicured garden path.

Why It’s Unforgettably Romantic:

• A Shared “Aha!” Moment: The gasp of delight you both share when the famous dome comes into focus is a memory you’ll keep forever.
• Perfectly Poised Photos: Taking turns at the keyhole creates adorable, unique couple photos and videos.
• The Ultimate Hidden Gem: It feels like a secret just for the two of you, a special discovery in a city of grand monuments.
• The Perfect Pairing: It’s just a short, romantic stroll away from the Orange Garden, making for an unbeatable morning date.

3. Get Lost in Trastevere’s Cobblestone Lanes After Dark

When: Anytime, but magic starts after 7 PM 

Where: Trastevere (start at Piazza di Santa Maria) 

Cost: Free to explore; dinner ~€40-80 for two

By day, Trastevere is charming. By night, it’s pure, unadulterated romance. As the sun sets, the ancient cobblestones glow under warm street lamps, ivy-draped buildings cast long shadows, and the sound of laughter and music fills the air. This is when Rome’s cool, bohemian heart beats loudest for lovers.

Your Romantic Trastevere Game Plan:

• For a Memorable Meal: Secure a table at Osteria der Belli for incredible seafood, or grab shareable supplì (fried rice balls) from a street vendor.
• For the Perfect Drink: Head to the rooftop terrace at Freni e Frizioni for a bottle of local wine with a buzzing, romantic atmosphere.
• For a Perfect Stroll: Simply wander. Let the winding, lantern-lit alleys lead you past street musicians and hidden piazzas.
• For a Quiet Moment: Pop into the Almost Corner Bookshop, a delightfully cozy English-language bookstore.

Pro-Tip: Extend the magic by staying in the neighborhood. Find your perfect bohemian apartment on CuddlyNest and use code DISCCN15 for 15% off!

4. Take a Pasta-Making Class (Because Carbs = Love)

When: Multiple slots daily; book 2-3 weeks ahead

Where: Historic Center (Trastevere & Piazza Navona are top picks)

Cost: €65-120 per person | Duration: 3-4 hours

Forget a fancy dinner; the ultimate romantic foodie experience is making pasta from scratch together. It’s a fun, hands-on date where you’ll learn, laugh, and sip wine before enjoying the delicious rewards of your labor.

Why It’s a Perfect Date:

• Master Roman Classics: Learn the secrets to perfect cacio e pepe or carbonara from a local chef.
• Sip & Cook: Enjoy included wine while you knead and roll—turning a lesson into a party.
• The Best Part: Sit down to a romantic meal where you get to eat your own creations.
• A Souvenir That Lasts: Take the recipes home to recreate your Roman holiday anytime.
• Go Behind the Scenes: Many classes include a tour of a local market to pick out fresh ingredients.

Pro-Tip: For the most atmospheric experience, book a class in the charming Trastevere neighbourhood or near the vibrant Piazza Navona.

5. Villa Borghese: Rome’s Ultimate Romantic Escape

When: Gardens: 24/7 | Gallery: 9 AM-7 PM (Closed Mondays)

Where: Piazzale Flaminio (near Piazza del Popolo)

Cost: Gardens: Free | Borghese Gallery: €15-20 (Book Weeks Ahead!)

Escape the city bustle without ever leaving it. Villa Borghese is a 200-acre green paradise, offering the perfect blend of nature, art, and romance for every kind of couple.

Craft Your Perfect Romantic Afternoon:

• For the Playful Pair: Rent a rowboat on the tranquil lake (approx. €5) or a tandem bike to explore the tree-lined paths.
• For the Art-Loving Duo: The Borghese Gallery (book weeks in advance!) is a must-see, housing breathtaking masterpieces in a stunning villa.
• For the Sunset Chaser: Make your way to the Pincio Terrace for what is arguably the most breathtaking panoramic view in Rome, especially as the sun sets over the domes of the city for the most romantic evening.
• For the Romantic Picnic Pros: Grab a bottle of wine and some snacks for an idyllic picnic under the shade of ancient trees.

Pro-Tip: Combine a leisurely stroll through the free gardens with a timed visit to the Borghese Gallery for the ultimate cultured yet romantic date.

6. A Moonlit Tour of Ancient Rome

When: 7-8 PM start (Apr-Sep 2026) | Where: Near Roman Forum/Piazza Venezia
Cost: €45-75 per person

Here’s a little secret: Rome’s ancient heart is even more magical after dark. As the crowds vanish, the Colosseum and Roman Forum are dramatically illuminated, transforming into an awe-inspiring, romantic backdrop you’ll have almost to yourselves.

Why a Night Tour is the Ultimate Date:

• Breathtaking Atmosphere: Experience the grandeur of Ancient Rome under a canopy of stars and golden spotlights.
• Intimate & Crowd-Free: Explore without the daytime heat and chaos, making it perfect for a hand-in-hand stroll through history.
• Stunning Night Photography: Capture incredibly dramatic couple photos with the lit-up monuments as your backdrop.
• Hidden Gems & Stories: Many tours include access to hidden corners and tell the city’s most captivating stories.

Pro-Tip: For another unforgettable night, look for special “Vatican Museums by Night” tours on select Fridays for an incredibly intimate art experience.

7. Janiculum Hill: The Undisputed Champion of Romantic Views

When: Anytime, but sunset is non-negotiable

Where: Passeggiata del Gianicolo (Trastevere side)

Cost: Free

Forget the official seven hills. For the most breathtaking, panoramic view of Rome that will truly make your heart skip a beat, the locals head to Janiculum. This is the city’s ultimate viewing platform and a quintessential romantic pilgrimage.

Why It’s Unbeatable for Couples:

• The Ultimate Vista: A sweeping, postcard-perfect view of Rome’s iconic skyline, from St. Peter’s Dome to a sea of terracotta rooftops.
• Golden Hour Magic: Experience sunset here—it’s a spectacular, shared moment that defines la dolce vita.
• Romantic Ambiance: Stroll the tree-lined paths accompanied by the sound of street musicians playing Italian classics.
• Peace & Quiet: Enjoy a more local, serene atmosphere far from the main tourist circuits.

Extend Your Romantic Evening: After the sunset, wander down to the ancient Ponte Sisto bridge for a stroll or cross over to the charming Tiber Island for a riverside aperitivo.

Pro-Tip: Make it easy. Book a charming stay in nearby Trastevere on CuddlyNest and use code DISCCN15 for 15% off your romantic home base.

8. Trevi Fountain at Dawn: A Secret Romance

When: 6:00 – 7:00 AM (No excuses, just go!)

Where: Piazza di Trevi

Cost: Free (but bring coins!)

Forget the crowded chaos you’ve seen in photos. At dawn, the Trevi Fountain transforms into a private, baroque fantasy. It’s just you, your partner, and the majestic sound of water in the soft morning light—this is the Trevi experience couples dream of.

The Magic of an Early Morning:

• Have the Fountain to Yourselves: Experience its grandeur without the crowds.
• The Perfect Photo: Capture stunning, photobomb-free couple photos in the dreamy morning glow.
• A Moment of True Romance: Actually hear the water and each other as you toss your coins.
• Authentic Atmosphere: Soak in the serene ambiance with the scent of fresh pastries from opening cafés.

Your Pro Roman Itinerary:

• Make Your Wish: Toss your coin (one to return, two for new love, three for marriage).
• Stroll to the Spanish Steps: It’s a short, romantic walk to enjoy another iconic site in the peaceful morning.
• Indulge in Breakfast: Cap it off with a coffee and cornetto in the gorgeous garden of Hotel de Russie for the ultimate romantic treat.

9. The Ultimate Romantic Aperitivo Crawl

When: 6:00 – 9:00 PM (The Golden Hours)

Where: Piazza Navona to the Jewish Ghetto

Cost: €8-15 per drink, including snacks

Ditch the standard dinner reservation for one of Italy’s greatest traditions: the aperitivo crawl. It’s a moving feast of light bites, sparkling drinks, and unparalleled people-watching, the perfect recipe for a spontaneous and romantic dinner.

Your Romantic Aperitivo Route:

• Piazza Navona (The Grand Opening): Start amidst baroque splendor. For a chic vibe, head to Etabli. For a classic treat, grab the famous tartufo gelato at Tre Scalini.
• Campo de’ Fiori (The Lively Heart): Soak up the buzzing energy of this historic market square. Find a spot at an outdoor table, order an Aperol Spritz, and watch the world go by.
• The Jewish Ghetto (The Culinary Finale): Wander into this charming, historic quarter. Your mission: share a plate of Rome’s iconic carciofi alla giudìa (fried artichokes) with a glass of crisp white wine.

Why It’s a Perfect Date Night:

• A Shared Adventure: It turns an evening out into a journey of shared discovery through Rome’s most beautiful backdrops.
• Spontaneous & Flexible: No rigid plans or reservations needed, just follow the mood and the music.
• Taste of La Dolce Vita: You’ll be immersed in the local ritual of unwinding in style, creating that perfect, tipsy-happy romantic atmosphere together.

10. A Romantic Escape to Ostia Antica

When: Tues-Sun, 8:30 AM – 7:00 PM | Where: 30-min train from Roma Porta San Paolo

Cost: €12-15 entry + ~€3 round-trip train

For the ultimate change of pace, escape the city for a day of exploration and quiet intimacy. The ancient Roman port of Ostia Antica offers all the awe of Pompeii but with a fraction of the crowds, allowing you to wander hand-in-hand through rich history.

Why It’s Unforgettably Romantic:

• Intimate Exploration: Discover sprawling, 2,000-year-old ruins—from a grand theater to intricate mosaic floors, often with just the two of you.
• Ruins & Nature: Experience the poetic beauty of ancient stones intertwined with wildflowers and towering pine trees.
• A Peaceful Pilgrimage: It’s a world away from the bustle, offering a serene and thoughtful experience perfect for deep connection.
• Incredible Value: The low cost and included museum make it one of Rome’s best-kept secret day trips.

Pro-Trip Tips:

• Pack a Picnic: The site is perfect for a romantic lunch among the ruins.
• Wear Good Shoes: You’ll be walking on ancient cobblestones.
• Combine Your Ticket: Your entry often includes the on-site museum, so don’t miss it!

Where to Stay: Your Romantic Roman Home Base

The perfect Roman holiday needs the perfect nest. Whether you’re dreaming of a luxury suite or a cozy, affordable hideaway, here are our top picks to make your trip unforgettable.

For the Luxury Lover:

• Hotel de Russie: A legendary five-star haven with a secret garden near the Spanish Steps. Pure, unadulterated romance and elegance.
• Villa Agrippina Gran Meliá: An oasis on the Janiculum Hill with a stunning pool and breathtaking views, offering a tranquil escape with easy access to Trastevere.

For the Budget-Savvy Romantic:

• Trevi Palace Hotel: Charming hotwl nestled in the heart of Rome’s most romantic neighbourhood, putting you steps from incredible food and nightlife.
• The Code Hotel: Find quiet, family-run hotel offering serenity and stunning views without the luxury price tag.

Your Booking Bonus with CuddlyNest

Secure your perfect romantic retreat on CuddlyNest and use our exclusive code DISCCN15 for 15% off your stay. Whether you crave luxury or a cozy nook, they have you covered.

New & Noteworthy: Pay with Crypto!

Want to book your trip with cryptocurrency? Now you can! CuddlyNest accepts popular digital currencies like USDT, USDC, DAI, and BUSD for a fast, secure, and modern booking experience.

Rome wasn’t built in a day, and neither is a perfect romantic getaway. But with these secrets in your pocket, you’re not just visiting, you’re crafting a love story etched into the eternal heart of the Eternal City.

So, pack your bags, grab your love (and maybe some coins for the Trevi), and get ready to fall for each other all over again in the world’s most romantic open-air museum. A presto, amore!