Why choose Rome for sports and culture together
Rome is not just the Colosseum, the Vatican and picture-postcard squares. It is also one of Europe’s live sports capitals, where soccer, rugby, tennis and marathons draw fans from all over the world. And the real magic is that here you can pair an unforgettable match with a walk to the Pantheon, an ice cream in Piazza Navona or a sunset on the Janiculum Hill.
Rome city of sports: soccer, marathons, tennis and more
The Olympic Stadium is the beating heart: it hosts the challenges of AS Roma and SS Lazio, but also rugby and international matches. Then there are the streets of the capital that become tracks for runners and cyclists, the arenas that welcome basketball and volleyball, and the courts of the Foro Italico that make tennis lovers dream.
The unique appeal: sports + millennial history
Where else can you watch a fiery derby and, a few hours later, lose yourself in the night-lit Imperial Fora? Rome gives you this unrepeatable mix: sporting adrenaline and historic charm just a few miles away.
The calendar of sporting events for September 2025
Soccer at the Olympic Stadium
AS Roma matches in Serie A
Roma takes the field several times between September and October. Home games at the Olimpico become must-see fixtures for those who love Italian soccer.
SS Lazio matches in Serie A
Lazio, too, delivers exciting challenges, with a stadium decked out in biancoceleste and a cheer that gets the stands buzzing.
The Capital Derby
The most anticipated match of the year: Roma vs Lazio. Electric atmosphere, choirs, flags, centuries-old rivalry. If you happen to be in Rome on those days, you can’t miss it (tickets difficult, book well in advance).
Rugby and international matches at the Olympic Stadium
The stadium is not just soccer: September often brings international rugby friendlies or special events. Different atmosphere, but always intense.
Running events: September city races and marathons
From charity runs in historic streets to running races over shorter distances, September offers appointments for those who love to run. Imagine running through Piazza Venezia with the streets closed to traffic: pure sports magic.
October 2025 sporting events in Rome
Serie A and Roman challenges
October gets into the thick of the championship. Both Roma and Lazio play key matches, with the stadium becoming bedlam.
Tennis: Next Gen Internationals and fall tournaments.
The Foro Italico hosts events dedicated to the young talents of world tennis. October is the month to discover emerging champions.
Gran Fondo of cycling in Rome
An event that draws cyclists from all over Italy and Europe: pedaling among the monuments is an experience worth the trip alone.
Running: Roma Urbs Mundi and running races
October brings the famous Roma Urbs Mundi, a 15-kilometer international race that starts and finishes at the Colosseum, passing the city’s iconic sites.
Minor sports and arenas (basketball, volleyball, martial arts)
Not just big stadiums: the Palazzetto dello Sport hosts basketball and volleyball, while martial arts and boxing events find space in various city arenas.
How to integrate sports and tourism in the center of Rome
Morning sports, afternoon culture: recommended itineraries
Here’s an example: match at the Olimpico in the evening, morning between the Vatican and Castel Sant’Angelo. Or marathon in the morning and afternoon relaxation at Villa Borghese.
Where to eat after the game: Roman cuisine and typical trattorias
After the match, what’s better than a carbonara or cacio e pepe at a trattoria in Prati? Or fast-cut pizza if you’re rushing to the train.
Must-see museums and squares between matches
Between two fields days you can discover the Pantheon, go shopping on Via del Corso or visit temporary exhibitions in the Capitoline museums.
Practical tips for those coming to Rome for sports
Online tickets and reservations
Always buy tickets in advance, especially for derby or mass events.
Getting around: metro, buses and shuttles to the Olympic Stadium
The stadium is connected by buses and streetcars, but on game days traffic is heavy. Get there early.
Safety and dress code in sports facilities
Avoid bulky backpacks and forbidden items. Carry only the essentials.
Why it pays to leave your luggage at LeaveYourBags
Enjoying the game carefree
Carrying bulky suitcases or backpacks to the stadium is impossible (and often forbidden). That’s where LeaveYourBags comes in: secure, supervised storage in the middle of the city center.
Where the repositories are located
- Pantheon – Largo Argentina
- Campo de’ Fiori
- Vatican – Octavian
Three perfect locations to leave your luggage behind and experience Rome hands-free.
Concrete benefits: freedom, security and time gained
Automated depots, 7-day-a-week access, video surveillance-so you don’t waste time and can rush to the stadium or a museum without worry.
September and October 2025 in Rome are months to mark in red: Serie A, derbies, marathons, cycling, tennis. The city becomes an open-air gym, without ceasing to be the capital of culture and art. The secret to enjoying it to the fullest? Plan well, book in advance and travel light with LeaveYourBags.co.uk-so you experience only the adrenaline rush of sports and the beauty of Rome.
Where is the Derby della Capitale played in Rome?
Always at the Stadio Olimpico, which hosts both Roma and Lazio.
Can I enter the stadium with suitcases or trolleys?
No, they are forbidden. Better to rely on a luggage storage company like LeaveYourBags.
What is the most popular October running race in Rome?
Roma Urbs Mundi, 15 km between Colosseum, St. Peter’s and the city’s landmarks.
Where to eat near the Olympic Stadium?
Zona Prati offers typical Roman trattorias, pizzerias and quick places for a post-game meal.
What is the most convenient way to go to the Olympic Stadium?
Bus and streetcar are the main options; alternatively, cab or NCC to reduce waiting time.
