Unexpected Itineraries of Rome is a project funded under the “Great Italian Destinations for Sustainable Tourism” by the Development and Cohesion Plan (PSC) of the Ministry of Tourism. It involves five Italian cities: Florence, Milan, Naples, Rome, and Venice.

Unexpected Itineraries of Rome is a project focused on the enhancement, accessibility, communication, and promotion of itineraries that extend beyond traditional tourist paths, including in the city's more decentralized areas. These areas are distinguished by significant natural and scenic elements, as well as archaeological sites and remains of great historical, cultural, and artistic interest. Together, they create uniquely beautiful places in the world, yet their history is little known even to the Romans who encounter them daily.

The project proposes the concept of a “never-ending journey of Rome” to encourage repeated visits, targeting primarily young people, curious tourists of all ages interested in exploration, and repeaters who already know the more famous parts of Rome. The promotion and communication of new and unexpected itineraries will focus on these groups, offering routes that blend street art, history, biodiversity, and culture.

Unexpected Itineraries of Rome represents an initiative aligned with the common goals of the Ministry of Tourism and Roma Capitale, aiming to foster a more sustainable and balanced tourism approach. This involves creating economic opportunities and revenue for local areas in a more extensive and structured manner than currently practiced, countering over-tourism that results in excessive crowds in protected and city center areas.

By developing and promoting 7 unexpected itineraries, the project will expand perceptions of Rome, offering the chance to discover different facets of the city and promoting an unexpected Rome that generates new interests. This will broaden the geographic scope of tourist interest beyond the confines of the historic center. The itineraries are created in synergy and collaboration with: Sovrintendenza Capitolina; Department of Environmental Protection of Roma Capitale; Municipal districts of Roma Capitale; Regional Park of Appia Antica; Archaeological Park of Appia Antica; Special Superintendence for Archaeology; Fine Arts and Landscape of Roma Capitale; Metropolitan City of Rome and the Museums and Parks of Praeneste and Gabii.

1. Forte Bravetta and Parco dei Martiri of Forte Bravetta
2. Esquilino - from Santa Croce in Gerusalemme to the Ex Acquario Romano
3. Almone - from Gazometro to Parco della Caffarella
4. Parco of Torre del Fiscale and Parco degli Acquedotti, passing through the Quadraro district with street art
5. Parco of Tor Marancia and quartiere Tor Marancia with street art
6. Osa - Gabii Archaeological Park
7. San Vittorino - Gabii Archaeological Park

• Develop itineraries: create routes to highlight lesser-known locations for both locals and tourists, situated outside the historic center.
• Reduce over-tourism: mitigate over-tourism in the city center by making tourism more sustainable and directing visitors to other areas.
• Enhance Biodiversity and Natural Richness: promote the city's natural biodiversity and wealth as a key feature of Rome's tourism offer, on par with its cultural, historical, and artistic assets.
• Change tourist perceptions: reframe Rome as a destination for repeated visits.
• Expand target market: broaden the market by reaching underrepresented tourist flows, such as those from Asia and Millennials.
• Qualifying Rome's target market by increasing tourist flows not only in terms of quantity but also quality.

The project aims to move beyond the “See Rome in 24-48 hours” concept, continuously providing new stimuli to explore the vast heritage of Rome, encompassing not only its historical and cultural assets but also its natural treasures.