Sunday in Rome
Sundays in Rome offer a relaxed pace where locals enjoy family time, major historic sites like the Colosseum remain open, and the ancient Appian Way closes to cars.
However, the Vatican Museums are closed (except the last free Sunday of the month), and many independent shops close for the day.
What to Do
Walk or bike the Appian Way (Via Appia Antica), which is entirely free of cars on Sundays.
Hunt for bargains at the famous Porta Portese morning flea market in Trastevere.
Visit state-run sites like the Colosseum and Roman Forum for free if it happens to be the first Sunday of the month.
What to Expect
Vatican Museums:
Closed on regular Sundays, and packed with massive queues on the final Sunday of the month when entry is free.
Shopping:
Most small, family-owned clothing and boutique stores stay closed, though central souvenir shops and major chain stores remain open.
Dining:
Restaurants are open, but traditional long Sunday family lunches mean you should book your table in advance.
However, the Vatican Museums are closed (except the last free Sunday of the month), and many independent shops close for the day.
What to Do
Walk or bike the Appian Way (Via Appia Antica), which is entirely free of cars on Sundays.
Hunt for bargains at the famous Porta Portese morning flea market in Trastevere.
Visit state-run sites like the Colosseum and Roman Forum for free if it happens to be the first Sunday of the month.
What to Expect
Vatican Museums:
Closed on regular Sundays, and packed with massive queues on the final Sunday of the month when entry is free.
Shopping:
Most small, family-owned clothing and boutique stores stay closed, though central souvenir shops and major chain stores remain open.
Dining:
Restaurants are open, but traditional long Sunday family lunches mean you should book your table in advance.

