Discovering the best things to do in Rome in May
Rome in May promises to be dynamic and exciting, with a wide range of events and activities to experience. From festivals and art exhibitions to musical performances by distinguished national and international artists, you’ll be spoiled for choice this spring. Whether you are an art/music/food lover or simply looking for a reason to rejoice, Rome eagerly awaits your arrival. This article groups the most important events in May to help you plan your visit.
National holidays and special days in Rome in May
May 1 | International Workers’ Day
One of the most important festivities in May is Workers’ Day, celebrated with a grand free concert which this year will take place at Circo Massimo, while all museums and shops remain closed to honour the contributions of workers.
Exhibitions this May in Rome
This May, Rome continues to buzz with cultural energy, offering a rich mix of exhibitions across the city.
The spotlight shines on the 70th edition of the World Press Photo exhibition, opening May 6 at Palazzo delle Esposizioni, showcasing the most powerful and thought-provoking photojournalism from around the globe. Also in the realm of photography, “Chromotherapy” at Villa Medici explores the emotional power of color through striking visual compositions.
From May 13, Palazzo delle Esposizioni will also host “From the Heart to the Hands”, a much-anticipated exhibition by Dolce & Gabbana, following its premiere in Milan and stop in Paris. This immersive experience blends haute couture, craftsmanship, and artistic storytelling.
While new exhibitions arrive, several major shows continue to draw visitors: “Caravaggio 2025“ offers a groundbreaking journey through the master’s Baroque genius; “Salvador Dalí. Between Art and Myth“ invites viewers into the surrealist’s dreamlike visions; and “Munch. The Inner Scream“ captures raw emotion through the Norwegian artist’s intense brushstrokes.
Don’t miss “Picasso the Foreigner“, an exploration of identity and exile through the lens of Picasso’s life in France, or “Franco Fontana. Retrospective“, a vibrant photographic journey through one of Italy’s most influential photographers.
Finally, dive into Rome’s Renaissance past with “The Farnese in 16th Century Rome” at Villa Caffarelli, or enjoy the poetic beauty of nature in “FLOWERS“, the stunning contemporary art exhibition at Chiostro del Bramante.
Best events in May in Rome
Live music
The month of May begins with the grand landmark concert, but the city’s musical scene doesn’t end there. Artists from a variety of musical traditions and backgrounds will perform on various stages around the city throughout the entire month.
Concerts in Rome in May7- 18 May | BNL International Tennis Tournament
From 7 to 18 May, Rome will host the BNL international tennis tournament, one of the most prestigious tennis tournaments in the world. The top names in Tennis will be coming to duke it out on the clay courts of Foro Italico, a historical stadium built for the Olympic Games of 1960. This is one of the best events in Rome and this fabulous competition will combine men’s and women’s tournaments. This tournament will give us a week of intense tennis under the glorious sunshine of May.
BNL International Tennis Tournament6 May – 8 June | World Press Photo 2025
The exhibition of the World Press Photo returns to the Palazzo delle Esposizioni in Rome. The exhibition presents a national preview of the finalist photos of the international photojournalism competition which since 1955 awards the best professional photographers every year. For its 70th edition, the competition saw the participation of 3,778 photographers from 41 countries with 59,320 photographs and open format contributions. The exhibition invites viewers to see the news with fresh eyes and to critically reflect on important issues in our world.
World Press Photo in Rome8-11 May | Race for the Cure
The Race for the Cure is the largest event for the fight against breast cancer both in Italy and globally. This year, Rome will host the 26th edition of the Race for the Cure, organized by Komen Italia, from 8 to 11 May. Four days of free initiatives for health, sport and solidarity that culminate on Sunday with an exciting 10 km race, a 5 km race and 2 km walk in the streets of the city center. In addition, the runners will have free access to Rome’s main museums. At the Villaggio della Salute in Circo Massimo, health screenings for women are offered for free.
raceforthecure.it17 May | La Notte dei Musei
La Notte dei Musei – The Night of Museums, now a tradition, offers the opportunity to visit museums during evening hours, with an entrance fee of one euro (unless otherwise stated). The program includes various events and live performances. The museums participating include the Capitoline Museums, the Museum of Rome and the Gallery of Modern Art, among others.
La Notte dei Musei22-26 May | Piazza di Siena International Horse Show
Rome this May will be hosting once again the prestigious international horse show, Piazza di Siena, which will showcase top international riders competing in traditional riding displays during a four-day event.
Piazza di Siena International Horse Show24 May – 1 June | Open House Rome
Experience the breathtaking architecture and design of contemporary structures, historical landmarks, and even private residences throughout Rome. Open House Rome, an international event spanning several cities worldwide, offers visitors and tourists alike the opportunity to explore over 200 sites.
Open House Rome27 May – 1 June | Unarchive: Found Footage Fest
It will feature a range of artistic experiences and events, including screenings, debates, concerts, and audiovisual performances aimed at rediscovering cinematic footage. The festival will take place across several venues, including Cinema Intrastevere, Alcazar Live, the Spanish Academy (Accademia di Spagna), the Botanical Gardens, and more.
Unarchive: Found Footage Fest
