What to Do in Rome on a Rainy Day?

Most people imagine Rome under a bright, shining sun. However, seasons change even in the heart of the Mediterranean. Rain falls frequently during the autumn, and sudden summer storms are also quite common.

An occasional rainy day is always a possibility, regardless of when you visit. But don’t worry! Rome doesn’t stop for the rain. The city simply transforms, offering unique and pleasant opportunities that you might otherwise miss.

A rainy atmosphere makes Rome feel even more romantic. If you enjoy evocative and slightly melancholic vibes, walking through the city under the rain can be a truly memorable experience. Just remember to carry a small umbrella!

You will find plenty of interesting places to take cover. Even if the weather disrupts your original plans, an indoor gem is always nearby waiting for you to explore. Best of all, you can still get around comfortably with Rome in Golf Cart. Our carts feature protective canopies that keep passengers dry, making a little rain a non-issue!

Museums and Exhibitions: The Perfect Indoor Escape

With so many museums in Rome, you will easily find something nearby. We recommend choosing slightly less crowded spots to enjoy a more intimate experience. Here are a few places you might have missed on your initial itinerary:

• Capitoline Museums: These historic museums are essential for diving into Roman history. See the original Capitoline She-Wolf and the iconic statue of Marcus Aurelius. The view of the Roman Forum from Piazza del Campidoglio is even more stunning under the rain.
• Borghese Gallery: Located inside the Villa Borghese park, this gallery hosts masterpieces by Caravaggio, Bernini, and Raphael. You must book in advance, making it the perfect choice if you see rain in the forecast a few days out.
• Palazzo delle Esposizioni: Situated on Via Nazionale, this venue hosts rotating exhibitions of contemporary Italian and international artists. It is a fantastic place to stay dry and inspired.
• Palazzo Altemps: Just steps from Piazza Navona, this museum sits inside a 15th-century aristocratic residence. It offers an elegant, quiet atmosphere filled with ancient Greek and Roman sculptures.
• Museum of Rome at Palazzo Braschi: Overlooking Piazza Navona, this museum is very convenient if you are in the city center. It is the best place to explore the history of Rome through the centuries without long walks in the rain.
• National Roman Museum – Palazzo Massimo: Located near Termini Station, this museum is a great first stop if rain greets you as you arrive. It houses incredible frescoes, mosaics, and the breathtaking Garden of Livia.
• Bramante Cloister: This beautiful Renaissance building from 1500 features one of Italy’s most stunning courtyards and hosts carefully curated modern art exhibitions.
• Doria Pamphilj Gallery: This palace on Via del Corso holds one of Europe’s most valuable private art collections. Descendants of the family still live here, maintaining the feel of a true noble residence.

Fascinating Churches to Visit Without Getting Wet

Rome has countless churches, and many famous ones are likely already on your list. A rainy day provides the perfect excuse to step inside and discover some lesser-known treasures:

• Santa Maria sopra Minerva: Located near the Pantheon, this church houses Michelangelo’s “Christ of Minerva.” Historically, it is also the site where Galileo Galilei’s trial took place in 1633.
• St. Ignatius of Loyola: This church features incredible optical illusions and painted ceilings that look three-dimensional. Use the large mirror in the nave for a perfect selfie with the painted vault as your backdrop.
• San Luigi dei Francesi: Tucked away in the alleys near Piazza Navona, this is a mandatory stop for art lovers. It contains three legendary Caravaggio paintings that everyone should see at least once.
• Santa Maria della Pace: Right next to the Bramante Cloister, this hidden gem houses Raphael’s famous Sibyls fresco.
• The Pantheon: While you probably already planned to see it, the Pantheon is particularly special when it rains. Watching the rain fall through the oculus in the dome is a magical sight.

Taking Refuge in Books and Coffee

When it’s grey outside, nothing beats the comfort of a warm, welcoming café. Whether you are alone or with friends, you can escape the weather with a good cup of coffee and a book. Rome offers several unique “literary” spots:

• Feltrinelli Bookstore (Largo Argentina): This is one of Rome’s largest bookstores. The upstairs café is the perfect place to grab a snack while flipping through a new book.
• Caffè Giufà (San Lorenzo): An independent bookstore-café in the university district. It offers a creative and quiet atmosphere for an intellectual break.
• Bibliobar (Lungotevere Castello): This bright café-bookstore offers an incredible view of the Tiber River and Castel Sant’Angelo.
• AltroQuando (Campo de’ Fiori): This concept store is packed with graphic novels and unique prints. The downstairs pub is exceptionally cozy and inviting.
• Caffè Letterario (Via Ostiense): A spacious venue outside the center, perfect for reading or getting some work done.
• Museum of Rome Café (Piazza Navona): An elegant and intimate spot in the heart of the city. It’s ideal for a break before or after your museum visit.
• Caffè delle Arti (National Gallery of Modern Art): This bright, sophisticated café is the best solution if rain catches you near the Parioli district.
• Tuba (Pigneto): An amical and inclusive landmark in the Pigneto pedestrian area, perfect for coffee and community vibes.

Explore Underground Rome: The Ultimate Shelter

What better way to avoid the rain than by going underground? Rome’s subsoil is a vast network of galleries, catacombs, and ancient ruins that hide the city’s deepest mysteries.

The Catacombs of St. Callixtus and Domitilla are among the most extensive. Descending into these depths reveals the origins of Christianity and essential pieces of ancient Roman history.

The Basilica of San Clemente is another highlight, featuring three distinct layers of history, including a 1st-century Mithraeum at the bottom. Underneath the bustling Piazza Navona, you can visit the Stadium of Domitian, an archaeological site that reveals the ancient world beneath the modern streets. Finally, the Roman Houses of the Caelian Hill near the Colosseum feature stunning frescoes from the Roman era.

Catch a Movie: Rainy Day Cinema

Who says you can only go to the movies at night? A rainy day is the perfect excuse to catch a screening at any hour. Rome offers several interesting alternatives to the big multiplexes:

• Cinema Farnese (Campo de’ Fiori): A beloved arthouse cinema that often shows films in their original language.
• Cinema Nuovo Sacher (Trastevere): Founded by director Nanni Moretti, this theater offers a familiar atmosphere and a curated selection of films.
• Cinema Giulio Cesare (Prati): A great mix of a modern facility and quality “essai” films.
• Cinema Alcazar (Trastevere): A small, alternative cinema focusing on international films, music, and theater events.
• Cinema Troisi (Trastevere): Known for its director-focused retrospectives and morning screenings.
• Casa del Cinema (Villa Borghese): Located in a historic building inside the park, it hosts screenings, retrospectives, and cultural meetings.

As you can see, a rainy day in Rome isn’t a problem—it’s an opportunity. You can still tailor your day to your passions and interests. If you feel overwhelmed by these options, just ask our guides at Rome in Golf Cart or check out our options on Sidecar Tour in Rome. We will give you the best advice and drive you to the most interesting spots, rain or shine!