Rome, the capital of Italy, is a city steeped in history, art, and culture. Known as the “Eternal City,” Rome offers a unique blend of ancient ruins, Renaissance masterpieces, Baroque fountains, and modern life. From the grandeur of the Colosseum to the tranquility of the Vatican Gardens, Rome is a treasure trove of iconic landmarks and hidden gems. Here are some of the best places to visit in Rome, Italy:
Best Places to Visit
1. Colosseum
The Colosseum is one of the most iconic landmarks in Rome and a symbol of the ancient Roman Empire. This massive amphitheater, completed in 80 AD, once hosted gladiatorial contests, animal hunts, and public spectacles. Visitors can explore the Colosseum’s intricate architecture, including the arena floor, underground chambers, and tiered seating. The Colosseum offers a fascinating glimpse into ancient Roman society and entertainment.
- Key Attractions: Ancient architecture, gladiatorial arena.
- Activities: Sightseeing, guided tours.
- Location: Piazza del Colosseo, 1, 00184 Rome, Italy.
2. Vatican City
Vatican City, the world’s smallest independent state, is the spiritual and administrative center of the Roman Catholic Church. Key attractions include St. Peter’s Basilica, the Vatican Museums, and the Sistine Chapel. St. Peter’s Basilica is a masterpiece of Renaissance architecture, featuring Michelangelo’s Pietà and Bernini’s Baldachin. The Vatican Museums house an extensive collection of art and historical artifacts, culminating in the breathtaking Sistine Chapel with its ceiling frescoes by Michelangelo.
- Key Attractions: St. Peter’s Basilica, Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel.
- Activities: Religious exploration, art appreciation.
- Location: Vatican City, Rome, Italy.
3. Roman Forum
The Roman Forum was the political, religious, and commercial heart of ancient Rome. This sprawling archaeological site includes the remains of temples, basilicas, and public spaces. Key structures include the Temple of Saturn, the Arch of Titus, and the House of the Vestals. The Roman Forum offers a fascinating glimpse into the daily life and governance of ancient Rome.
- Key Attractions: Ancient ruins, historical significance.
- Activities: Historical exploration, guided tours.
- Location: Via della Salara Vecchia, 5/6, 00186 Rome, Italy.
4. Pantheon
The Pantheon, a marvel of ancient Roman engineering, is one of the best-preserved buildings from antiquity. Originally built as a temple for all the Roman gods, the Pantheon has been a Christian church since the 7th century. The building’s most striking feature is its massive dome, which remains the world’s largest unreinforced concrete dome. The Pantheon also houses the tombs of several notable figures, including the artist Raphael.
- Key Attractions: Ancient architecture, massive dome.
- Activities: Sightseeing, architectural appreciation.
- Location: Piazza della Rotonda, 00186 Rome, Italy.
5. Trevi Fountain
The Trevi Fountain is one of the most famous fountains in the world and a masterpiece of Baroque art. Designed by Nicola Salvi and completed in 1762, the fountain features a majestic sculpture of Neptune flanked by Tritons. Legend has it that tossing a coin into the fountain ensures a return trip to Rome. The Trevi Fountain is a popular spot for both tourists and locals, especially at night when it is beautifully illuminated.
- Key Attractions: Baroque sculpture, coin-tossing tradition.
- Activities: Sightseeing, photography.
- Location: Piazza di Trevi, 00187 Rome, Italy.
6. Piazza Navona
Piazza Navona is one of Rome’s most famous squares, known for its lively atmosphere and stunning Baroque architecture. The square is built on the site of the ancient Stadium of Domitian and features three beautiful fountains: the Fountain of the Four Rivers, the Fountain of Neptune, and the Fountain of the Moor. Piazza Navona is also home to the Church of Sant’Agnese in Agone and is surrounded by cafes, restaurants, and art galleries.
- Key Attractions: Baroque fountains, Church of Sant’Agnese in Agone.
- Activities: Dining, shopping, people-watching.
- Location: Piazza Navona, 00186 Rome, Italy.
7. Spanish Steps
The Spanish Steps, a grand staircase of 135 steps, connect Piazza di Spagna at the base with Piazza Trinità dei Monti at the top. The steps are a popular meeting place for locals and tourists and offer a great vantage point for people-watching and enjoying views of the city. At the base of the steps is the Fontana della Barcaccia, a Baroque fountain designed by Gian Lorenzo Bernini. The Trinità dei Monti church and its twin towers dominate the top of the steps.
- Key Attractions: Grand staircase, Trinità dei Monti church.
- Activities: Sightseeing, relaxing.
- Location: Piazza di Spagna, 00187 Rome, Italy.
8. Castel Sant’Angelo
Originally built as a mausoleum for Emperor Hadrian, Castel Sant’Angelo has served various purposes throughout history, including a fortress, papal residence, and prison. The castle is now a museum, featuring exhibits on its history and the various artifacts it has housed over the centuries. Visitors can explore the castle’s rooms, including the Papal Apartments, and enjoy panoramic views of Rome from the terrace.
- Key Attractions: Ancient architecture, museum exhibits.
- Activities: Historical exploration, sightseeing.
- Location: Lungotevere Castello, 50, 00193 Rome, Italy.
9. Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore
The Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore is one of the four major basilicas of Rome and a masterpiece of Christian art and architecture. The basilica is known for its stunning mosaics, marble columns, and ornate ceiling. It houses important relics, including the wood of the Holy Crib. The basilica’s exterior is equally impressive, featuring a blend of Romanesque and Baroque architectural styles. Santa Maria Maggiore is an important pilgrimage site and a must-visit for art and history enthusiasts.
- Key Attractions: Stunning mosaics, Holy Crib relics.
- Activities: Religious exploration, art appreciation.
- Location: Piazza di S. Maria Maggiore, 00100 Rome, Italy.
10. Borghese Gallery and Gardens
The Borghese Gallery is a renowned art museum located in the Villa Borghese, a grand estate surrounded by beautiful gardens. The gallery’s collection includes works by masters such as Caravaggio, Raphael, Titian, and Bernini. Notable highlights include Bernini’s sculptures “Apollo and Daphne” and “David.” The surrounding Borghese Gardens offer a peaceful retreat from the city’s hustle and bustle, with picturesque pathways, fountains, and a lake.
- Key Attractions: Renaissance and Baroque art, Bernini sculptures.
- Activities: Art appreciation, strolling in the gardens.
- Location: Piazzale Scipione Borghese, 5, 00197 Rome, Italy.
Summary Table
| Place | Description | Key Attraction | Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| Colosseum | Iconic ancient Roman amphitheater | Gladiatorial arena, ancient architecture | Piazza del Colosseo, 1, 00184 Rome |
| Vatican City | Spiritual and administrative center of the Roman Catholic Church | St. Peter’s Basilica, Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel | Vatican City, Rome |
| Roman Forum | Heart of ancient Rome’s political and social life | Ancient ruins, historical significance | Via della Salara Vecchia, 5/6, 00186 Rome |
| Pantheon | Best-preserved ancient Roman building | Massive dome, ancient architecture | Piazza della Rotonda, 00186 Rome |
| Trevi Fountain | Famous Baroque fountain with a coin-tossing tradition | Baroque sculpture, Neptune statue | Piazza di Trevi, 00187 Rome |
| Piazza Navona | Lively square with Baroque architecture | Fountain of the Four Rivers, Church of Sant’Agnese in Agone | Piazza Navona, 00186 Rome |
| Spanish Steps | Grand staircase connecting Piazza di Spagna and Piazza Trinità dei Monti | Trinità dei Monti church, Fontana della Barcaccia | Piazza di Spagna, 00187 Rome |
| Castel Sant’Angelo | Historic castle and museum | Papal Apartments, panoramic views | Lungotevere Castello, 50, 00193 Rome |
| Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore | Major basilica known for its art and architecture | Mosaics, Holy Crib relics | Piazza di S. Maria Maggiore, 00100 Rome |
| Borghese Gallery and Gardens | Art museum with Renaissance and Baroque masterpieces | Bernini sculptures, Borghese Gardens | Piazzale Scipione Borghese, 5, 00197 Rome |
How to Reach Rome
By Plane
Rome is served by two main airports: Leonardo da Vinci International Airport (FCO), also known as Fiumicino Airport, and Ciampino Airport (CIA). Fiumicino Airport is the primary international gateway, while Ciampino Airport mainly handles low-cost and charter flights. From both airports, travelers
can reach the city center by train, bus, taxi, or private transfer.
By Train
Rome’s main train station, Roma Termini, is one of the busiest in Europe and offers connections to major cities across Italy and Europe. High-speed trains link Rome to cities such as Florence, Milan, Venice, and Naples. Other important stations include Roma Tiburtina and Roma Ostiense.
By Bus
Several bus companies operate routes to Rome from other Italian and European cities. The main bus terminal, Tiburtina Station, is well-connected to the city’s public transportation network.
By Car
Rome is accessible by car via the A1 motorway, which runs from the north to the south of Italy. The city’s ring road, the Grande Raccordo Anulare (GRA), connects various districts and highways. However, driving in Rome can be challenging due to traffic and limited parking, so public transportation is often a more convenient option.
Best Time to Visit Rome
The best time to visit Rome is during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is mild and pleasant. These seasons are ideal for exploring the city’s outdoor attractions and enjoying cultural events. Summer (July to August) can be hot and crowded with tourists, while winter (December to February) offers a quieter experience with cooler temperatures.
Travel Tips
- Local Cuisine: Rome is famous for its delicious Italian cuisine, including dishes like pasta alla carbonara, pizza al taglio, and supplì (fried rice balls). The city’s trattorias and restaurants offer a wide variety of traditional Roman dishes and local specialties.
- Cultural Etiquette: Italians are known for their warm hospitality. It’s customary to greet people with a handshake or a kiss on both cheeks. When visiting religious sites or attending cultural events, dress modestly and be respectful.
- Transportation: Rome has an extensive public transportation system, including buses, trams, and metro lines. The city is also walkable, with many attractions located within the historic center. Consider purchasing a Roma Pass for unlimited travel on public transport and discounted entry to museums and attractions.
Itinerary Suggestions
One-Day Trip
- Morning: Start your day with a visit to the Colosseum, followed by the Roman Forum. Afterward, explore the Pantheon and Piazza Navona.
- Afternoon: Have lunch at a local trattoria, then visit the Trevi Fountain and the Spanish Steps. In the afternoon, explore the Vatican Museums and the Sistine Chapel.
- Evening: Enjoy dinner at a restaurant in the Trastevere district, followed by a leisurely stroll along the Tiber River.
Weekend Getaway
- Day 1: Begin with visits to the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill. In the afternoon, explore the Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel, and St. Peter’s Basilica. In the evening, dine in the historic center and visit the Trevi Fountain.
- Day 2: Start with a morning visit to the Borghese Gallery and Gardens. In the afternoon, explore the Pantheon, Piazza Navona, and Castel Sant’Angelo. Conclude your trip with a visit to the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore and dinner in the Monti district.
Rome’s rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant culture make it a must-visit destination in Italy. Whether you’re exploring its ancient ruins, admiring its Renaissance and Baroque art, or savoring its delicious cuisine, Rome offers a unique and unforgettable experience for every traveler.
