Weekend in Rome
This weekend in Rome is brimming with summer delights, offering a mix of cultural immersion, open-air entertainment, and gastronomic adventures. The city's 'Estate Romana' (Roman Summer) program is in full swing, featuring widespread open-air cinemas and vibrant riverfront festivities. Highlights include a unique international folklore festival, major art exhibitions, a traditional clam festival in Ostia, and an exclusive electronic music event, ensuring there's something to captivate every local looking to experience Rome anew. While specific daily programs for some events are finalized closer to the dates, the foundational festivals and exhibitions are confirmed to run.
Friday Evening - Cultural Showcase & Riverside Ambiance
Friday, August 22Folklore Parade & Dance
The International Festival 'ROMA IN DANZA' (Rome in Dance) commences its main public performances.
Kicking off with a grand parade of international folklore ensembles starting from the Colosseum area, culminating in an open-air stage performance in a central Roman square. This festival brings vibrant cultural traditions from around the world to the heart of Rome.
Witness a colorful procession of traditional costumes and music, followed by energetic dance performances. This event offers a unique opportunity to experience global cultures right in Rome. Arrive early to secure a good viewing spot for the parade. The specific performance square will be announced by the festival organizers nearer the date. The festival runs from August 21-24, 2025.
Reach the Colosseum via Metro B (Colosseo station). The parade will proceed through central areas, easily accessible by walking or various bus lines depending on the final performance location.
Lungo il Tevere Stroll
Immerse yourself in the bustling atmosphere of 'Lungo il Tevere' (Along the Tiber), the popular summer festival transforming the Tiber River banks.
This open-air festival offers a multitude of pop-up bars, diverse food stalls, artisan crafts, and live music, making it a perfect spot for a relaxed evening stroll. It runs until August 24th.
A quintessential Roman summer experience, 'Lungo il Tevere' is a favorite among locals for its vibrant nightlife and varied offerings. Enjoy an aperitivo, sample regional Italian street food, browse unique artisan goods, and soak in the lively ambiance by the river. Prices for food and drinks vary depending on choices.
Accessible by various bus lines to Trastevere or Lungotevere areas. From Colosseum, take bus H or 75 towards Trastevere and get off near Ponte Sisto.
Saturday - Coastal Flavors & Contemporary Art
Saturday, August 23Ostia Clam Festival
Take a short trip out of the city to Ostia for the 'Sagra della Tellina' (Tellina Clam Festival).
This traditional food festival celebrates the local tellina clams with various dishes, fresh seafood, and a lively atmosphere. It's a fantastic way to experience local Italian culinary traditions by the sea.
A perfect escape from the city heat, this sagra offers a taste of authentic Roman coastal cuisine. Enjoy freshly prepared tellina pasta and other seafood specialties. The festival runs from August 22-31, 2025. Expect a vibrant, family-friendly atmosphere with live music and local vendors.
Take the Roma-Lido train line from Piramide station (Metro B) to Ostia Lido Centro. The journey takes approximately 30 minutes. From there, the festival area is typically within walking distance or a short local bus ride.
Modern Art Exhibition
Explore 'Flowers.
Art from the Renaissance to Artificial Intelligence' at Chiostro del Bramante. This captivating exhibition showcases over 90 artworks from global institutions, exploring the artistic and cultural significance of flowers across five centuries, blending tradition, science, and digital innovation.
This exhibition offers a refreshing indoor cultural activity, providing a fascinating perspective on art history through a unique theme. It's a popular choice for locals due to its thought-provoking curation and beautiful setting. The exhibition runs until September 14, 2025.
From Ostia Lido, take the Roma-Lido train back to Piramide, then Metro B to Colosseo, then bus 87 or 492 to reach the Piazza Navona area, or take bus 23 from Piramide directly to Ponte Sisto and walk. Alternatively, a taxi or ride-sharing service from Piramide.
Riverside Aperitivo
Return to the Tiber River for another delightful experience at 'Lungo il Tevere'.
The late afternoon offers a different, more relaxed vibe before the evening crowds. Enjoy a spritz or a cool drink at one of the riverside bars.
The Lungo il Tevere festival is a fantastic spot to unwind after a day of exploration. It's an excellent opportunity to people-watch and enjoy the Roman breeze as the sun begins to set. It's a classic local summer ritual.
From Chiostro del Bramante, it's a short walk to the Ponte Sisto area, a main access point for Lungo il Tevere.
Electronic Music Night
For those seeking a more contemporary nightlife experience, head to Forte Antenne for 'Rebel Rebel roman survivors w/ Fabrizio Sala b2b Zero'.
This event promises an exciting night of electronic music, a popular genre among Rome's vibrant club scene.
This event is a significant draw for locals interested in electronic music and the underground club scene. Forte Antenne is known for hosting cutting-edge parties. Expect a dynamic atmosphere and high-energy sets. This specific event is listed for Saturday, August 23, 2025.
Forte Antenne is best reached by taxi or ride-sharing services from the city center, especially late at night. Public transport options may be limited; check local bus schedules for routes towards Monte Antenne.
Sunday - Jubilee Perspectives & Open-Air Cinema Finale
Sunday, August 24Jubilee Photography Exhibit
Visit 'Open City 2025.
Rome in the Jubilee Year' at the Vittoriano (Complesso del Vittoriano). This powerful photography exhibition captures the transformation of Rome during the significant Jubilee Year through the lenses of acclaimed photographers.
This exhibition offers a unique cultural insight into Rome's contemporary history and its preparations for the Jubilee. It's a chance to see the city through a new lens and understand its ongoing evolution. The exhibition runs until September 28, 2025.
The Vittoriano is centrally located in Piazza Venezia, easily accessible by numerous bus lines (e.g., H, 40, 60, 64, 85, 87, 119) and a short walk from Metro B (Colosseo) or Metro A (Barberini/Spagna) stations.
Tiber Island Cinema
Experience the magic of 'Isola del Cinema' (Tiber Island Film Festival), Rome's beloved open-air cinema.
Nestled on the scenic Tiber Island, this festival screens a diverse range of films, including Italian classics and international productions, often in original language.
Watching a film under the stars on Tiber Island is a quintessential Roman summer experience. It's a relaxed way to spend the afternoon, enjoying cinematic art in a unique historical setting. While specific film schedules for August 24, 2025, are released closer to the date, the festival is confirmed to run throughout August.
Accessible by walking from Trastevere (Ponte Sisto) or the Jewish Ghetto. Bus lines such as H, 8, or 23 will take you to the Trastevere area, from where Isola Tiberina is a short walk.
Farewell Riverside Vibes
Cap off your weekend with a final visit to 'Lungo il Tevere' before it concludes its summer run.
Enjoy the last opportunity to stroll along the illuminated riverbanks, grab a final Roman street food treat, and savor the festive atmosphere.
This is a perfect way to bid farewell to a vibrant Roman weekend. The festival officially closes on August 24th, making this a fitting last activity. It's a great spot for a relaxed evening and a final taste of Rome's summer energy.
Easily accessible from Isola Tiberina by walking across Ponte Fabricio or Ponte Cestio, which connect directly to the Trastevere or Jewish Ghetto sides where the festival is located.
This weekend itinerary for Rome can be customized using our AI travel planner. Chat with our AI assistant to modify activities, adjust timings, add personal preferences, and get recommendations for restaurants, hotels, and transportation.