The vibrant capital of Italy is a unique fusion of rich history, culture, natural beauty, and monuments. It goes much further than the usual tourist sites: delve into Rome's hidden gems that are just a few steps away from the well-trodden paths and monuments.

Here's a list of Rome's tucked-away treasures that will leave you taken with the city's seemingly endless offerings.

This often-overlooked archaeological museum houses some of Rome's most spectacular ancient sculptures. The Ludovisi Throne and the Boxer at Rest are absolute masterpieces, and you'll likely have the galleries mostly to yourself.

Explore the fascinating Villa Giulia, home to the world's finest collection of Etruscan art. The Sarcophagus of the Spouses is one of ancient art's most moving pieces. The villa itself, set in beautiful gardens, is a Renaissance gem.

Go underneath the Trevi Fountain to discover this hidden archaeological site. An ancient Roman apartment complex dating back to the first century, it wasn't discovered until the late 1990s. This fascinating glimpse into daily Roman life is only €4 and offers a unique perspective on the layers of Rome's history.

This expansive park is perfect for strolling, and you can rent family bikes for a fun way to explore. The Galleria Borghese museum houses incredible Bernini sculptures and Caravaggio paintings, but tickets must be purchased well in advance due to limited entry times.

Visit this baroque church famous for its incredible trompe-l'oeil ceiling fresco by Andrea Pozzo. Stand on the marble disk in the nave floor for the perfect viewing angle of this optical illusion masterpiece.

Discover Rome's unexpected Egyptian-style pyramid, built as a tomb for wealthy Roman magistrate Gaius Cestius. The frescoed interior and the incongruous sight of a pyramid in Rome make this a fascinating stop near the Testaccio neighborhood.

This historic villa, originally built for the Medici family and later acquired by Napoleon, sits on Italian soil but remains French property. The villa and its gardens offer stunning views over Rome, but visits are by guided tour only due to its unique diplomatic status.

Explore the underground burial chambers that extend for miles beneath Rome. Several catacombs offer guided tours, providing insight into early Christian Rome and ancient burial practices.

Beneath St. Peter's Basilica lies one of Rome's most exclusive experiences - the ancient necropolis where St. Peter's tomb is believed to rest. This rare underground journey requires advance reservation through the Vatican and is limited to small groups, making it one of Rome's most coveted hidden gems.

Take a short walk or taxi to Aventine Hill, one of Rome's seven hills. Visit the Keyhole of the Knights of Malta for a perfectly framed view of St. Peter's Dome through a garden gate - one of Rome's most Instagram-worthy secrets.

Explore the beautiful 5th-century Santa Sabina Basilica and the adjacent Orange Garden (Giardino degli Aranci) for sunset views over the Tiber and the city.

For authentic dining, head to Testaccio, Rome's authentic foodie neighborhood. This former working-class area is where Romans go for traditional cuisine. Try the local specialty - quinto quarto (offal dishes) if you're adventurous, or stick to classic Roman pasta dishes.

Visit this remarkable church built in layers - a 12th-century basilica over a 4th-century church over a 1st-century Mithraic temple. It's like descending through Rome's history.

For a truly off-the-beaten-path experience, take a short trip to the ancient Appian Way with its original Roman paving stones and underground catacombs.

• Roma Pass: Consider purchasing for museum entries and public transport
• Aperitivo culture: Romans typically have aperitivo between 6-8 PM - join them!
• Dress code: Many churches require covered shoulders and knees
• Siesta time: Many smaller sites close 1-3 PM
• Water fountains: Rome has hundreds of free drinking fountains (nasoni) throughout the city

• Palazzo Massimo tickets
• Any specific restaurant reservations in Trastevere
• San Clemente Basilica (to skip lines)
• Villa Giulia and Palazzo Altemps (if choosing from Secret Spots)