There’s a famous saying, “when in Rome, do as the Romans do”. And this is always the goal when traveling; to immerse yourself fully in a new culture, and engage in authentic local interactions and experiences.

With the emergence of local experiences marketplaces that are English-language friendly and offer low-cost travel options, seeking local experiences is easier than it ever has been before. There are friendly locals in every city in the world willing to show you around, and invite you into their home.

Withlocals is one such marketplace, a platform connecting travelers with locals through food and experiences. This eliminates the overcrowded tour buses, cliche dining options, and stereotypical activities by instead offering private tours and dining experiences lead by locals themselves.

For those looking to roam Rome like a local, and literally “do as the Romans do”, the following are some fantastic things to do in Rome. 7 ideas for authentic, local Italian experiences available for travelers.

Authentic, Italian Experiences You Can Have With Locals in Rome

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There’s a famous saying, “when in Rome, do as the Romans do”. And this is always the goal when traveling; to immerse yourself fully in a new culture and destination, and engage in authentic local interactions and experiences abroad.

There’s a famous saying, “when in Rome, do as the Romans do”. And this is always the goal when traveling; to immerse yourself fully in a new culture and destination, and engage in authentic local interactions and experiences abroad.

Go on an Off-the-beaten Path Tour

Plan a unique, totally personalized tour with a local host, who can show you many parts of Rome that most tourists don’t ever see. Rome is so much more than the Colosseum, The Pantheon, the churches, and the hills.

You’ll hear more about the real Roman lifestyle and the local history. The non-touristy Rome has many small streets, less chaos, the cool Monti district and small boutiques with everything you wish to shop for.

Take a look at the places that inspired some of the most popular Italian movies. Get a cool ride with a Vespa! Let your imagination go wild and your local tour guide will make sure to give you the experience you’re looking for!

Eat Like a Roman

Oh, the food in Italy! If you haven’t been to Italy yet, you haven’t tasted Italian food. Nothing compares to a meal prepared by locals in the comfort of their homes. Feel their love for fresh ingredients and good conversations. Cooking with nonna, you’ll see that people actually put their hearts into the delicious dishes and get carried away by laugther. local experiences in Rome.

Enjoy a seasonal meal prepared with products grown in the host’s garden, a traditional pasta dinner, a typical homemade pizza or a delicious tiramisu dessert. All of these goods and the company of the warm and friendly hosts will make you want to stay in Rome forever! Things to do in Rome with kids.

Have a magical night with incredible Italian wine, astounding music and beautiful people! Things to do in Rome at night. Learn to cook in Rome.

Enjoy a seasonal meal prepared with products grown in the host’s garden

Oh, the food in Italy!

Discover the Dark Side of Rome

There are many beautiful places, delicious meals and gorgeous art elements in Rome, but what about its darker hidden side? A city becomes much more interesting when you get to see its mysteries next to the popular highlights. If you want to experience a different type of thing to do in Rome, far less known by most travelers, try out the Dark side of Rome tour!

In the city’s history there have been crazy myths and rumors, and no-one knows these best than the curious Roman locals who call the city home. Many stories were about famous people, country rulers or religious leaders turned bad. Some are more mystical, or even “di fantasmi”, as locals would say. Get carried away in the intriguing nighttime atmosphere of the mysterious city!

Take a Historical Tour with a Local

One of the best things to do in Rome is exploring its well known history. There are lots of places to see, but your local host will make sure you get far more than simple views. Every scratch of a building has a story worth listening to! Don’t miss them! Meet locals in Rome. Hang out with local Romans.

Two of the spots you should include in your tour, no matter what, are the Colosseum and Pantheon. Yes, it’s true that they are very touristy, but there’s a reason why they are so visited, they’re amazing! Things to do in Rome in Winter.

The Colosseum’s size itself is mind blowing. The queues can get long, but who cares about them when listening to all the fascinating gladiator tales? Now, go back in time through The Pantheon. Remember, you’re walking on the steps of Romans from 2000 years ago! Local travel tips for Rome.

Rome is full of amazing highlights, so let us share with you their true history!

The Colosseum’s size itself is mind blowing.

Back in time through The Pantheon. You’re walking on the steps of Romans from 2000 years ago!

Back in time through The Pantheon. You’re walking on the steps of Romans from 2000 years ago!

 Get a look at the Sailboat Church

Not your typical church in Rome! Jubilee Church is a totally modern cathedral which only dates back to 2003. If you decide to visit it, you’ll see that it is completely unusual for a spiritual sanctuary. It probably looks more like a modern art museum. And believe it or not, it’s shaped like a sailboat made of a special white cement. Traveling to Rome for the first time.

Your host will tell you more about how it’s used as a community center and serves eight thousand residents of the Tor Tre Teste. Visit it to get a very different vibe than what you’ll normally experience in Roman churches.

Learn to Make Authentic Pasta

There are many local things to do in Rome, and Pasta Making workshops here are top notch. Rome travel advice. Rome tips and tricks. Rome travel blog.

Making the pasta is not a big fuss, you’ll only need a few fresh ingredients and a steady strong hand to help you out. Though the sauce is another story!

Train your senses to recognize different tastes. Learn different recipes and play with them! Your host will help you in discovering what flavors you should combine, which herbs work best for certain dishes and how to cut your pasta in for the perfect shape.They’ll share their own learning experience with you, just like any true teacher would! Learn to make pasta in Italy. Rome cooking class.

Have fun creating your unique pasta and chat along with your host!

Enjoy the Municipal Rose Garden

Young Roman lovers head to the Municipal Rose Garden, which is by far one of the most romantic and peaceful spots in Rome. You can savor a more quiet time here because it is not packed with tourists. So escape the chaos and take in the stunning panoramic views.Your host can show you the most perfect photography shoots. Make sure your memory lasts forever!

You’ll be able to walk around the park and take in the intoxicating aromas of the 1,100 different rose varieties. Take a moment to admire the views of Palatine Hill in the distance and listen to a story or two about the place. Ask your guide about other beautiful landscapes he can show you and lovely things to do in Rome!

More Withlocals Experiences in Rome

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There’s a famous saying, “when in Rome, do as the Romans do”. And this is always the goal when traveling; to immerse yourself fully in a new culture and destination, and engage in authentic local interactions and experiences abroad.

There’s a famous saying, “when in Rome, do as the Romans do”. And this is always the goal when traveling; to immerse yourself fully in a new culture and destination, and engage in authentic local interactions and experiences abroad.

Megan is an Australian Journalist who has been travelling and blogging since 2007, with the main aim of inspiring others to embark on their own worldwide adventure. Her husband Mike is an American travel photographer, and together they have made the world their home.

Committed to bringing you the best in adventure travel from all around the globe, there is no mountain too high, and no fete too extreme! They haven’t been everywhere, but it’s on their list.

Follow their journey on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, Pinterest and Instagram.

Photo credits: Pinterest image of Colosseum at night by George Rex. Close up Colosseum at night by Moyan Brenn. Inside the Pantheon by Jenna Rose Robbins. Pantheon at night by Luftphilia.