Rome, Italy’s capital city, is a dream destination for sports lovers, blending a rich athletic culture with breathtaking historical attractions. Known for its passionate football fans, venues, and international events, Rome is an exciting destination for sports travellers.
Whether you’re catching a match at the legendary Stadio Olimpico, watching the world’s top tennis players at Foro Italico, running a marathon through the ancient streets, or simply exploring the city’s rich cultural sites, Rome has it all.
In this guide we look at everything you need to know about Rome’s sports scene, plus the top hotels to stay at, key attractions to see, and the city’s transport options.
Sports teams in Rome
Football
- AS Roma: one of Italy’s most historic football clubs, Roma play in Serie A and have a dedicated following known as the “Giallorossi”.
- SS Lazio: Roma’s fierce rivals, Lazio also play in Serie A and share the Stadio Olimpico with AS Roma.
Basketball
- Virtus Roma: a basketball club with a strong history in Italian and European competitions.
Rugby
- Italy National Rugby Team: hosts Six Nations matches at Stadio Olimpico.
Other sports clubs
- Roma Volley Club (Volleyball)
- Rome Gladiators (American Football)
Sports venues and stadiums in Rome
- Stadio Olimpico: Home to AS Roma, SS Lazio, and Italy’s national football and rugby teams. Hosts Coppa Italia finals, Six Nations rugby matches, and concerts.
- Foro Italico: a famous sports complex housing the Stadio dei Marmi and the Centrale del Tennis. Venue for the annual Italian Open (tennis) and swimming competitions.
- Palazzo dello Sport (PalaEur): an indoor arena hosting basketball, volleyball, and concerts. Home to Virtus Roma basketball team.
- Stadio Flaminio: a historic stadium used for rugby and smaller sporting events.
- Cinecittà World Sports Complex: a multi-purpose venue for various sporting activities and events.
- Marco Simone Golf & Country Club: nestled just outside Rome, Marco Simone is a world-class golf course that hosted the 2023 Ryder Cup.
Major sporting events in Rome
- Serie A football: home matches for AS Roma and SS Lazio at Stadio Olimpico.
- Internazionali BNL d’Italia (Italian Open tennis): a top clay-court tennis tournament held at Foro Italico.
- Six Nations Rugby: Italy’s national rugby team competes in the annual men’s and women’s international tournaments.
- Run Rome the Marathon (16 March 2025): a scenic marathon through Rome’s historic landmarks.
- Giro d’Italia (1 June): the cycling grand tour concludes in Rome with a 141km flat stage.
- Golden Gala Pietro Mennea athletics (6 June 2025): an annual track and field event featuring top international athletes.
- International swimming competitions: hosted at Foro Italico’s swimming complex.
Best hotels for sports travellers
Luxury
- Hotel de Russie: a five-star hotel near Piazza del Popolo, ideal for luxury travelers.
- Hassler Roma: offers stunning views of Rome and premium services.
Mid-range
- NH Collection Roma Centro: close to Stadio Olimpico and major attractions.
- Hotel Metropole by Starhotels: a comfortable option near Termini Station.
Budget
- Generator Rome: a stylish yet affordable hostel.
- Hotel Impero: budget-friendly and well-connected by transport.
- For city breaks in Rome see lastminute.com
Top tourism attractions in Rome
- Colosseum: a must-visit for sports and history lovers.
- Vatican City and St. Peter’s Basilica: home to some of the world’s most famous art and architecture.
- Pantheon: a stunning ancient Roman temple.
- Trevi Fountain: throw a coin and make a wish.
- Piazza Navona: a lively square with beautiful fountains.
- Villa Borghese and Borghese Gallery: a perfect blend of nature and art.
- Trastevere: a vibrant neighbourhood for dining and nightlife.
Transport and accessibility
Airports
- Leonardo da Vinci International Airport (FCO, Fiumicino): Rome’s main international airport with connections to the city via train (Leonardo Express to Termini Station).
- Ciampino Airport (CIA): mainly for budget airlines, with bus connections to the city.
Public transport
- Metro: the fastest way to move around Rome, with three main lines (A, B, C).
- Trams and buses: covers extensive parts of the city but can be crowded.
- Taxis and ride-sharing: widely available but can be expensive.
Car and bike rentals
- Car rentals are available but not recommended due to Rome’s traffic.
- Bike rentals are a great way to explore the city.
For more information on sport in Rome, see turismoroma.it
Main image credit: Simone Antonazzo / ENIT SpA – Italian National Tourist Board