6 Best Performing Arts Venues in Villa Borghese, Piazza del Popolo, and Flaminio, Rome

Architect Renzo Piano conceived and constructed the Auditorium Parco della Musica, a futuristic complex made up of three enormous, pod-shaped concert halls, which have hosted some of the world's greatest music acts. The Sala Santa Cecilia is a massive hall for grand orchestra and choral concerts; the Sala Sinopoli is more intimately scaled for smaller troupes; and the Sala Petrassi was designed for alternative events. All three are arrayed around the Cavea (amphitheater), a vast outdoor Greco-Roman-style theater. The Auditorium also hosts seasonal festivals, including the Rome Film Fest.

Founded in 1821, this musical institution is known for its symphonic and chamber-music concerts but also presents dance performances and musical theater productions in a variety of venues, including the Argentina Theater and the Teatro Olimpico.

One of the oldest conservatories in the world (founded 1585) has a program of performances ranging from classical to contemporary and a lineup of world-renowned artists. The Renzo Piano–designed Auditorium Parco della Musica hosts Santa Cecilia's shows in its three music concert halls.

Casa del Cinema is Rome's hub for all things film, with multiple screening rooms, an exhibition space, and a room for filming interviews, plus a caffè and restaurant. Yearly programming includes new and retro films from its vast archives as well as many original-language films often showcased from several festivals, including Rome Film Fest. In summer, the cinema heads outdoors to show a wide array of movies.

This quaint theater in the middle of the park has only 63 seats and plays children's films during the day and adult new releases at night. It opened in 1934, and many Romans still refer to it as "Casa di Topolino," thanks to the giant Mickey Mouse sign that appeared on the building until the 1970s. Warning to the very tall: leg room is minimal.

Part of Rome's theater circuit, the 1930s-era Teatro Olimpico is one of the main venues for cabaret, contemporary dance companies, visiting international ballet companies, and touring Broadway shows.