Colosseum
Stepping into the Colosseum, the grand amphitheatre in the center of Rome, is like walking back into ancient times. Known for its gladiatorial contests and public spectacles, it stands as an enduring symbol of Rome’s imperial might. Its sheer size and architectural grandeur remain awe-inspiring, even after centuries of decay. Don’t miss the underground chambers where gladiators and wild beasts waited for their turn to fight.
Entrance: Admission
Address: Piazza del Colosseo, 1, 00184 Roma RM, Italy
Roman Forum
Just a stone’s throw away from the Colosseum, the Roman Forum served as the hub of political, religious, and commercial life in ancient Rome. Today, its ruins including temples, arches, and government buildings offer a fascinating window into the city’s rich past. Walking through the Forum, you can almost hear the echoes of the orators’ speeches and the bustling crowds of a time long past.
Entrance: Admission
Address: Via della Salara Vecchia, 5/6, 00186 Roma RM, Italy
Vatican Museums
A visit to Rome isn’t complete without a stop at the Vatican Museums. This immense complex houses an extraordinary collection of art and antiquities collected by the popes over centuries. From the Sistine Chapel adorned with Michelangelo’s famed frescoes to the magnificent Raphael Rooms, each corner of the museums reveals a new treasure.
Entrance: Admission
Website: museivaticani.va
Address: 00120 Vatican City
St. Peter’s Basilica
Prepare to be mesmerized by the grandeur of St. Peter’s Basilica, the heart of Catholicism and an architectural masterpiece. Its massive dome dominates Rome’s skyline, and inside, you’ll find opulent decorations and art, including Michelangelo’s exquisite Pieta. Don’t miss the climb to the top of the dome for a breathtaking view of Vatican City and beyond.
Entrance: Free
Website: vatican.va
Address: Piazza San Pietro, 00120 Città del Vaticano, Vatican City
Pantheon
The Pantheon, one of the best-preserved of all Ancient Roman buildings, continues to inspire with its colossal Corinthian columns and impressive dome with its central opening to the sky. Originally a temple, it now houses the tombs of several important Italians, including the artist Raphael.
Entrance: Free
Website: pantheonroma.com
Address: Piazza della Rotonda, 00186 Roma RM, Italy
Trevi Fountain
Hidden away in the winding streets of central Rome, the Trevi Fountain is a Baroque masterpiece that continues to charm visitors with its beauty and lore. Toss a coin over your shoulder into the fountain, as per tradition, and it’s said you’ll return to Rome one day.
Entrance: Free
Website: turismoroma.it
Address: Piazza di Trevi, 00187 Roma RM, Italy
Piazza Navona
Piazza Navona is a vibrant square that showcases the Roman flair for living well. With its three fountains, including the famous Fountain of the Four Rivers by Bernini, and the Baroque-style Sant’Agnese in Agone church, this piazza is a perfect place to watch the world go by, Italian-style.
Entrance: Free
Website: turismoroma.it
Address: Piazza Navona, 00186 Roma RM, Italy
Castel Sant’Angelo
Originally built as a mausoleum for Emperor Hadrian, Castel Sant’Angelo has seen various transformations, from a fortress to a papal residence. Today, it’s a fascinating museum, and its rooftop terrace offers stunning views over the Tiber River and the city.
Entrance: Admission
Address: Lungotevere Castello, 50, 00193 Roma RM, Italy
Spanish Steps
Named after the Spanish embassy nearby, the Spanish Steps are a sweeping staircase of 135 steps leading up to the Trinità dei Monti church. A great spot for people-watching, they are also just a short stroll away from the ritzy shopping street of Via dei Condotti.
Entrance: Free
Website: turismoroma.it
Address: Piazza di Spagna, 00187 Roma RM, Italy
Borghese Gallery
Immerse yourself in the world of Italian art at the Borghese Gallery, which houses a spectacular collection of sculptures, paintings, and antiquities. The works of Caravaggio, Raphael, and Bernini, among others, make this museum a must-visit for any art lover.
Entrance: Admission
Address: Piazzale Scipione Borghese, 5, 00197 Roma RM, Italy
Capitoline Museums
Perched atop one of Rome’s seven hills, the Capitoline Museums offer an unrivaled collection of Roman art and archeological finds. From the iconic statue of Romulus and Remus to the beautifully preserved Capitoline Venus, this museum is a must-see for history buffs.
Entrance: Admission
Website: museicapitolini.org
Address: Piazza del Campidoglio, 1, 00186 Roma RM, Italy
Palatine Hill
As the most central of Rome’s seven hills, Palatine Hill boasts spectacular views over the Roman Forum and Circus Maximus. Once home to emperors and aristocrats, it’s now a peaceful oasis of ancient ruins and verdant gardens, perfect for a leisurely stroll.
Entrance: Admission
Address: 00186 Rome, Metropolitan City of Rome Capital, Italy
Baths of Caracalla
The Baths of Caracalla were once the second largest Roman public baths, providing a place for exercise, bathing, and socializing. Today, their impressive ruins provide a glimpse into the public life of Roman citizens, while the lush surrounding gardens offer a tranquil escape from the city’s hustle and bustle.
Entrance: Admission
Website: coopculture.it
Address: Viale delle Terme di Caracalla, 00153 Roma RM, Italy
Villa Borghese Gardens
Escape the urban rush in the verdant Villa Borghese Gardens, the city’s largest public park. Enjoy a leisurely walk, hire a bike, or simply sit by the lake and admire the scenery. The park also hosts a number of museums, including the aforementioned Borghese Gallery.
Entrance: Free
Website: 060608
Address: 00197 Rome, Metropolitan City of Rome Capital, Italy
National Roman Museum
Housing one of the world’s most important collections of Classical art, the National Roman Museum is a must-visit for art and history enthusiasts. Its treasures include the extraordinary frescoes from the Villa of Livia and the stunning statue of the ‘Boxer at Rest’.
Entrance: Admission
Address: Largo di Villa Peretti, 2, 00185 Roma RM, Italy
Appian Way
Stepping onto the Appian Way is like stepping back in time. Once one of the most important roads in the Roman Empire, today it’s a tranquil and scenic route lined with ancient tombs, ruins, and lush countryside, perfect for a bike ride or a leisurely stroll.
Entrance: Free
Website: parcoappiaantica.it
Address: Via Appia Antica, 42, 00178 Roma RM, Italy
Catacombs of Domitilla
Delve deep into the underground world of the Catacombs of Domitilla. This intricate network of tunnels serves as the final resting place for thousands of Christians from the 2nd to the 5th century. The catacombs’ evocative frescoes and haunting atmosphere make for a unique and unforgettable experience.
Entrance: Admission
Website: catacombedomitilla.it
Address: Via delle Sette Chiese, 282, 00147 Roma RM, Italy
Galleria Doria Pamphilj
Enter a world of opulence and grandeur at the Galleria Doria Pamphilj. This private palace and museum is filled with precious artworks by masters like Caravaggio and Raphael. Its lavish interiors and stunning gallery spaces are sure to leave you awe-struck.
Entrance: Admission
Website: doriapamphilj.it
Address: Via del Corso, 305, 00186 Roma RM, Italy
Santa Maria della Vittoria
Santa Maria della Vittoria is a stunning Baroque church, home to one of Bernini’s most famous works, the ‘Ecstasy of Saint Teresa.’ Aside from this masterpiece, the church boasts an impressive array of art and decoration, making it a hidden gem in Rome’s vast religious landscape.
Entrance: Free
Website: turismoroma.it
Address: Via Venti Settembre, 17, 00187 Roma RM, Italy