What to do in Rome from 18 to 24 May 2026

This week Rome presents a busy cultural calendar: major exhibitions, live concerts, theatre productions and food festivals in nearby towns. Below is a curated list of events and practical advice to plan your outings.

Recommended exhibitions

• Terzo Millennio - La scia della cometa (Spazio WeGil) – running until 30/06/2026: contemporary art highlights.
• Bernini and the Barberini (Palazzo Barberini) – exhibition on baroque art open until 14/06/2026.
• Hokusai (Palazzo Bonaparte) – open until 29/06/2026 for lovers of Japanese prints.
• Flowers - Meravigliosa Natura (Chiostro del Bramante) – on until 06/09/2026, a great spring visit.

Music and concerts

• Mario Biondi – performances around 17-18 May (Auditorium Conciliazione); check for extra dates and ticket availability.
• Roberto Vecchioni – 18 May (Teatro Brancaccio).
• Free events: classical concert at the Campidoglio on 19 May (Sala della Protomoteca) and other pop-up musical events across the city.

Theatre

• Death of a Salesman – staged through 24/05/2026 (Teatro Argentina).
• Eleazaro Rossi - Kamikaze – show from 20 to 24 May (Teatro Ambra Jovinelli).
• Schedules vary during the week: check venues for exact times and booking details.

Fairs, festivals and outdoor events

• ARF! 2026 – comic festival running until 31/05/2026 with free events over the weekends.
• Via Japan – 21-24 May at Città dell’Altra Economia: Japanese food, culture and performances.
• Sagra del Castrato – 23 May in Monteflavio: a traditional food event near Rome.
• Roma Open House – 16-24 May: special openings of private and public buildings across the city.

Practical tips

Tickets and reservations: buy in advance where possible. Theatres often require booking; arrive early for free events to secure a place.

Getting around: public transport is recommended on busy days; consider bikes or scooters for short central trips.

Where to check: this list is updated regularly: consult official venue pages and organisers' channels for last-minute changes or cancellations.

Enjoy the week: pick the events that suit you and plan ahead for a smooth visit to Rome.