Rome is world-famous for its grand museums and monuments, from the Vatican Museums to the Colosseum. However, if you wish to experience the Eternal City away from the tourist crowds, you will also find numerous underrated museums offering fascinating insights into art, history, and culture. Here we introduce you to some lesser-known museums in Rome to make your next visit even more varied.

Lesser-Known Museums in Rome: Insider Tips for Culture Lovers

1. Centrale Montemartini

One of Rome’s most unusual museums: ancient sculptures and mosaics meet impressive industrial machinery in a former power station from the early 20th century. The combination of Roman antiquity and industrial architecture creates a unique atmosphere.

Why we like it?

The contrast between ancient art and monumental turbines gives the museum its own special charm. It’s perfect for anyone who wants to experience history from a fresh perspective.

What you can do nearby?

The Ostiense district is known for its street art scene and trendy eateries – a walk around the area is worthwhile to discover more modern art.

Powered by GetYourGuide

Practical Information:

• Address: Via Ostiense 106, 00154 Rome
• Opening Hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 9 AM – 7 PM; closed on Mondays
• Prices: 11€ (full price), 6.50€ (6-25 years)

2. Palazzo Altemps

Palazzo Altemps is part of the National Museum of Roman Civilization (Museo Nazionale Romano) and is one of the most beautiful lesser-known museums in Rome. In the elegant halls of a Renaissance palace, ancient statues, busts, and reliefs are displayed. The collections of the Altemps and Ludovisi families are particularly outstanding.

Why we like it?

Anyone who appreciates ancient art in a refined setting will love Palazzo Altemps. The blend of Renaissance architecture and Roman sculptures is impressive, all without the hustle and bustle of the larger museums.

What you can do nearby?

Just around the corner lie Piazza Navona and the Tiber River – perfect for a leisurely walk or an aperitivo in one of the many cafés.

Practical Information:

• Address: Piazza di Sant’Apollinare 46, 00186 Rome
• Opening Hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 9:30 AM – 7 PM; closed on Mondays
• Prices:
  • Only for Palazzo Altemps: 8€/2€ (18-25 )
  • For all 4 locations of the Museo Nazionale Romano (e.g., Palazzo Massimo, Crypta Balbi): 12€/6€

3. Museo di Scultura Antica Giovanni Barracco

A small, free museum that houses a private collection of ancient sculptures. Here you will find objects from ancient Egypt, the Near East, and classical antiquity, lovingly gathered by the archaeologist Giovanni Barracco.

Why we like it?

Small, manageable, and yet thematically broad. It’s ideal if you want a moment of peace away from the hustle and bustle of the city center. The fact that admission is free makes it even more attractive.

What you can do nearby?

Campo de’ Fiori and Piazza Navona are just a stone’s throw away, as is the Ponte Vittorio Emanuele II bridge that leads toward the Vatican.

Practical Information:

• Address: Corso Vittorio Emanuele II 168, 00186 Rome
• Opening Hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 10 AM – 6 PM; closed on Mondays (subject to changes)
• Prices: Free admission

4. Museo delle Mura (Museum of the City Walls)

In this small museum located right in Porta San Sebastiano, the history of Rome’s city fortifications comes to life. You can walk along the ancient walls and enjoy fantastic views of the Via Appia Antica and the surrounding greenery.

Why we like it?

A real insider tip for fans of Roman military and urban history. If you’re in the mood for a stroll along ancient walls, this is the place to be.

What you can do nearby?

Porta San Sebastiano is the gateway to the Via Appia Antica – a paradise for walkers, cyclists, and lovers of ancient ruins.

Practical Information:

• Address: Via di Porta San Sebastiano 18, 00179 Rome
• Opening Hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 10 AM – 4 PM; closed on Mondays
• Prices: Free admission

5. Villa Torlonia: The Museums in the City Park

Villa Torlonia is an idyllic park north of the city center that houses several small museums. Particularly worth seeing are the Casino Nobile with its artfully decorated halls and the Casina delle Civette, a charming little house with Art Nouveau stained glass windows.

Why we like it?

The park’s relaxing atmosphere and the museums offer a delightful contrast to ancient and Baroque art. Ideal for those who appreciate Art Nouveau elements and quiet walks.

What you can do nearby?

The neighborhood around Via Nomentana is more residential but dotted with cafés and trattorias. It’s perfect for experiencing the authentic, less touristy side of Rome.

Practical Information:

• Address: Via Nomentana 70, 00162 Rome
• Opening Hours (Casino Nobile & Casina delle Civette): Tuesday to Sunday, 9 AM – 7 PM; closed on Mondays
• Prices: Starting at 11€, 6.50€ (for ages 6-25)

6. Crypta Balbi (Part of the Museo Nazionale Romano)

Archaeological excavations right in the city center. Crypta Balbi is located on the site of an ancient theater, where you can see various layers of the city’s history up close. The excavations are complemented by artifacts from the Middle Ages and the Renaissance.

Why we like it?

It’s fascinating how Rome has transformed over the centuries. Here you can literally discover multiple layers of history within one complex.

What you can do nearby?

Campo de’ Fiori and the Jewish Ghetto are only a few minutes away. It’s perfect for a little excursion after your museum visit.

Practical Information:

• Address: Via delle Botteghe Oscure 31, 00186 Rome
• Opening Hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 9:30 AM – 7 PM; closed on Mondays. Currently closed.
• Prices:
  • Only for Crypta Balbi: 8€/2€ (18-25)
  • For all 4 locations of the Museo Nazionale Romano (e.g., Palazzo Massimo, Crypta Balbi): 12€/6€

7. Museo Napoleonico

A museum dedicated to the history of Napoleon and his family – located right in the heart of Rome. Numerous paintings, sculptures, and personal items showcase the close relationship between the Bonapartes and the Papal States.

Why we like it?

Napoleon in Rome? This combination is fascinating for history enthusiasts and offers an unusual look at the turbulent history of the 19th century.

What you can do nearby?

The Castel Sant’Angelo and St. Peter’s Basilica are just a short walk away, as is the Tiber bridge, Ponte Umberto I, which leads toward Piazza Navona.

Practical Information:

• Address: Piazza di Ponte Umberto I, 00186 Rome
• Opening Hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 10 AM – 6 PM; closed on Mondays
• Prices: Free admission

8. Museo di Roma in Trastevere

This museum is dedicated to everyday life and the popular culture of Rome over the past centuries. Paintings, photographs, and reproductions illustrate traditions, festivals, and scenes from the daily life of Romans.

Why we like it?

For those who want to discover the authentic soul of Rome, this museum reveals much about the life and activities of ordinary people. It’s perfect before setting off to explore the Trastevere district.

What you can do nearby?

Trastevere is known for its small bars, restaurants, and vibrant nightlife. The church of Santa Maria in Trastevere is a must-see for art lovers.

Practical Information:

• Address: Piazza Sant’Egidio 1b, 00153 Rome
• Opening Hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 10 AM – 8 PM; closed on Mondays
• Prices: 12€ / 9.50€ (6-25)

9. Villa Farnesina: Renaissance Splendor in the Heart of Trastevere

Villa Farnesina is not a typical museum but rather a magnificent Renaissance residence with breathtaking frescoes. The works of Raphael, who immortalized mythological and pastoral scenes here, are particularly impressive.

Why we love it?

This gem remains relatively quiet despite its central location in Trastevere. Anyone seeking Renaissance art away from the mainstream museum circuits will find in Villa Farnesina a little paradise of colors and shapes.

Practical Information:

• Address: Via della Lungara 230, 00165 Rome
• Nearby: Directly across from the Botanical Garden and just a few steps from the Tiber, allowing for a wonderful walk through Trastevere.

• Opening Hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 10 AM – 5 PM
• Admission: From 10€ (adults) / 7€ (students, 10-17)

10. Museo Pietro Canonica: Sculptures in the Park

Hidden in the midst of Villa Borghese, the Museo Pietro Canonica is dedicated to the sculptor and composer of the same name. The exhibition showcases his bronze and marble works, along with personal documents and sketches.

Why we love it?

The blend of art and nature makes this place unique. While the trees rustle outside, you can admire sculptures inside that perfectly complement the tranquility and aesthetics of the park.

Practical Information:

• Address: Viale Pietro Canonica 2, 00197 Rome
• Nearby: Located right in Villa Borghese Park, it’s ideal for a stroll around the Borghese Lake or a visit to the Galleria Borghese.
• Opening Hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 10 AM – 4 PM
• Admission: Often free or very inexpensive

If you want to experience even more art and culture in Rome beyond the major museums, these lesser-known museums provide a perfect complement. In addition to the great, famous institutions, a visit to these hidden gems allows you to discover the Eternal City from new perspectives. Whether it’s an industrial setting, a hidden Renaissance palace, or a small themed museum – there is a personal highlight for every culture lover.