10 unmissable events and exhibitions in in Rome in September

September is a good month to restart again to enjoy summer in Italy without the typical heat of July or August, more or less.

In this season, Rome offers a perfect mix of cultural events, open-air experiences and mild weather that makes exploring the city a real pleasure.

Choosing what to do in this city like Rome can be overwhelming because there’s so much to see and time is always limited. It’s even harder if you want to discover something off the beaten path. But don’t worry we’ve put together a list of 10 unmissable events and exhibitions happening in Rome this September to help you make the most of your stay.

In any season, Rome can shine its magical eternity: sometimes among the monuments at the end of the alleys, sometimes from the cracks in the monuments a few steps further, sometimes among the leaves of the trees along the avenues, here and there. Despite the chaos, contradictions, and imperfections, it's impossible not to be swept away by Rome's charm.

In September 2025, it will be even easier to stroll among the ancient columns of the Imperial Forums at sunset, enjoying good wine, music, events and exhibitions. In search of a summer we wish would never end.

Feel the “La Grande Bellezza” atmosphere in real life! Thanks to this special event, you can access the gardens of the Fontanone del Gianicolo (also known as the Acqua Paola Fountain) and enjoy one of the most scenic views over the Eternal City. It's a unique chance to experience a spot made famous by Paolo Sorrentino’s film La Grande Bellezza.

Location: Fontana dell'Acqua Paola, Via Garibaldi, Rome
When: 20 September 2025
Tip: Book online in advance, spots are limited!

This exhibition creates a fascinating cultural dialogue between Chinese artists and Italian masters like Modigliani, De Chirico, and Lucio Fontana. Featuring over 70 works from both cultures, East and West invites reflection on global exchange, artistic connection, and shared history.

Location: Galleria Nazionale d’Arte Moderna e Contemporanea, Rome
When: Until 14 September 2025
Tip: Visit early in the month it closes soon! Advance tickets recommended.

It sounds very romantic... and it is. If you're in Rome for a trip or honeymoon with your amore, you can't miss this magical weekend stroll through history and beauty.

You can visit the Imperial Forums on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday evenings until the end of September to experience the last days of summer 2025 at sunset or under the stars.

Location: Via dei Fori Imperiali
When: Fridays to Sundays, until 28 September 2025 (7:30–10:00 p.m.)
Tips: Enter near Trajan’s Column and exit from Via Bonella. Ah, wear comfy shoes. 

Spring is a way of life, an attitude to follow, whether at the end of summer or in the middle of winter.

This is the philosophy of the Spring Attitude Festival 2025, dedicated to emerging international artists and a variety of musical genres. So, if you want to listen to good music, from electronic to indie rock to new sounds in Rome, this is the event for you.

Location: La Nuvola, Rome EUR
When? On 12 and 13 September 2025. Start at 17:30 
Tip: You can choose between three options to experience the event. There is a package for Friday, Saturday, or a full pass.

Twice a year, a rare and magical event occurs inside the Pantheon. Around midday in early April and again in early September, the sunlight aligns perfectly to illuminate the arch of the entrance — the result of brilliant astronomical planning by the ancient Romans. It’s a short but unforgettable moment that connects past and present in one of the city’s most iconic landmarks.

Location: inside the Pantheon, Piazza della Rotonda. Rome 
When: Around 4 September 2025, between 12:00 and 13:00
Tip: Visit the official Pantheon website for updated times and details, as the phenomenon lasts just a few minutes.

Even as Rome approaches autumn in September, we recommend immersing ourselves in the evocative power of flowers through the centuries, from the Renaissance to the present day, thanks to artificial intelligence.

Statues, videos, paintings, technological and immersive installations: over 90 works of art from the most famous museums narrate nature through all five senses. The colors of the exhibition lead us to a profound reflection on nature and its perception.

Where: Chiostro del Bramante, Via Arco della Pace, 5 in Rome
When? Ends in January
Tip: After your visit, take a break with a coffee or an aperitif and enjoy the beauty of the Caffetteria del Chiostro del Bramante.

See some of the most iconic masterpieces in the world for free. On 28 September 2025 the Vatican Museums open their doors to the public. Wander through the Sistine Chapel, admire works by Giotto, Raphael, and Caravaggio, and explore lesser-known gems like the Gregorian Egyptian and Etruscan Museums.

Expect large crowds, but the experience is absolutely worth it.

Location: Viale Vaticano, Vatican City
When: 28 September 2025, from 9:00 to 14:00 (last entry at 12:30)
Tip: No reservations or skip-the-line options are available. Arrive early and plan at least 3–4 hours for your visit.
Extra Tip: Visit the Vatican Museums on a dedicated day trying to combine it with other major attractions can be exhausting.

Looking for an evening cultural experience in September in Rome, even with kids? Don’t miss the nighttime openings of Vittoriano and Palazzo Venezia, featuring guided tours, theatrical performances, and walks through gardens and galleries, all included in your entrance ticket. Explore one of Rome’s most majestic landmarks under the stars. 

Location: Piazza Venezia, Rome 
When: 2, 9, 16, 23, and 24 September 2025 from 19:30
Tip: End your visit with a drink at the Vittoriano Caffetteria, the terrace view is amazing

Photographer Angèle Etoundi Essamba presents a bold and beautiful vision of African women in this striking exhibition. With over 40 photographs taken between 1985 and 2022, the exhibit includes works featured at MoMA in New York and the Venice Biennale. It’s an invitation to rethink representation, strength, and identity of the woman.

Location: Piazza San Egidio, 1b, Museo di Roma in Trastevere
When: Until 6 October 2025 (Tuesday to Sunday, 10:00–20:00)
Tip: Check the museum’s website for guided tour options or special events.

Raise a glass (of wine) to 100 years of the most ancient wine festival in Italy! An unmissable event in September 2025 if you're in Rome.

At the Sagra dell’Uva in Marino, wine literally flows from the city’s fountains in a celebration of local tradition, food and music. Enjoy guided tours, folk concerts 

If you go on Sunday, you can step back in time to the Renaissance by witnessing a historical parade in period costumes celebrating Marcantonio Colonna.

What else to expect? Days of messy, crowded and absolutely unforgettable.

Where: Piazza Giacomo Matteotti, 00047 Marino (RM)
When? From September 26 to October 6, 2025
Tip: Take the train from Rome (25 minutes) or drive (40 minutes). Before leaving Rome, check the program and changes online on the website or the official social media pages.
Extra Tip: Book in advance a B&B in Marino to fully enjoy the festivities and avoid the late-night trip back to the city.

It’s one of the best times of year to visit. The intense summer heat eases, while the city remains vibrant with events, open-air festivals, and beautiful weather.

Is Rome crowded in September?

The first half of the month can still be busy, especially in popular tourist spots. The second half is generally quieter.

What’s the weather like in Rome in September?

Expect pleasant days and cooler evenings. Average highs are around 27°C (81°F) and lows around 17°C (63°F).

What time do attractions open in September in Rome?

It varies. Major landmarks like the Fori Imperiali offer extended evening hours. Museums are usually open from morning until early evening.

When is sunrise and sunset in Rome in September?

Early September: Sunrise ~6:40 a.m. / Sunset ~7:45 p.m.

Late September: Sunrise ~7:10 a.m. / Sunset ~6:50 p.m.

You’ll have plenty of daylight to explore.

What events happen in September in Rome?

Many from art exhibitions to music festivals and historic wine sagre. One event that happens every year without fail? The Sagra dell’Uva in Marino, since 1925.

How can I visit Rome’s top attractions efficiently?

Consider the Roma Pass to save time and money. It covers public transport and entry to major museums and archaeological sites.

Check it out here → Rome Pass