When In Rome: 12 Must-See Attractions When Visiting Rome

Rome is one of the most historically and culturally rich cities in the world. Its iconic landmarks, ancient ruins, and stunning art make it an exciting destination for any traveler, especially those who love history. Below is a collection of must-see attractions to explore when visiting Rome.

Colosseum

The Colosseum is perhaps the most famous symbol of ancient Rome. Built in 80 AD, it was used for gladiatorial contests and public spectacles, and its massive structure could hold up to 80,000 spectators. Today, the Colosseum stands as a testament to Rome's architectural prowess, and exploring its towering arches and underground passages allows visitors to step back in time. Booking a guided tour will also give you in-depth insight into the Colosseum's history and significance. Learn more about the Colosseum here.

Highlights:

• Iconic symbol of ancient Rome.
• Built in 80 AD, hosted gladiatorial contests.
• Can hold up to 80,000 spectators.
• Explore underground passages and arches.

Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel

Home to one of the world’s most impressive art collections, the Vatican Museums house masterpieces from Michelangelo, Raphael, and other Renaissance greats. The highlight, of course, is the Sistine Chapel, famous for Michelangelo's breathtaking ceiling. Be sure to explore the vast halls of the museums, which display everything from ancient sculptures to Renaissance frescoes. Lines can be long, so booking tickets in advance is recommended. Explore the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel.

Highlights:

• Vast collection of Renaissance art.
• Features Michelangelo's Sistine Chapel ceiling.
• Ancient sculptures and intricate frescoes.
• Advanced ticket bookings recommended.

St. Peter’s Basilica

St. Peter's Basilica is one of the largest and most important churches in the world. Located in Vatican City, it is an architectural wonder, with a stunning Renaissance design and the iconic dome, also designed by Michelangelo. Visitors can climb to the top of the dome for panoramic views of Rome or explore the interior, which houses incredible artworks, including Michelangelo’s "Pietà." More on St. Peter’s Basilica.

Highlights:

• One of the largest churches globally.
• Renaissance design with a dome by Michelangelo.
• Climb the dome for panoramic views of Rome.
• Home to Michelangelo’s "Pietà."

Roman Forum

Once the heart of ancient Rome, the Roman Forum was the center of Roman public life, hosting everything from political events to triumphal processions. Today, the ruins of temples, basilicas, and other structures give a glimpse into what life was like in ancient Rome. Strolling through the Roman Forum allows you to walk in the footsteps of Julius Caesar and other historical figures. A visit here is often combined with the nearby Colosseum for a full experience of ancient Roman history.

Highlights:

• Central hub of Roman political and public life.
• Ruins of temples, basilicas, and government buildings.
• Walk in the footsteps of historical Roman figures.
• Often combined with Colosseum visits.

Pantheon

The Pantheon is one of Rome's best-preserved ancient monuments, originally built as a temple dedicated to the Roman gods. The building's perfect dome, with its central oculus allowing sunlight to stream in, remains an architectural marvel. Today, it is a functioning church and the resting place of notable figures like Raphael. The Pantheon is free to visit, making it one of the most accessible historical sites in Rome.

Highlights:

• Best-preserved ancient monument in Rome.
• Famous for its dome with a central oculus.
• Originally a temple, now a functioning church.
• Resting place of artist Raphael.

Trevi Fountain

The Trevi Fountain is one of the most famous fountains in the world, known for its stunning Baroque design. Visitors flock here to toss a coin into the fountain, a tradition that is said to ensure a return to Rome. The fountain is especially enchanting at night when it is illuminated, making it a perfect spot for a romantic evening stroll.

Highlights:

• Iconic Baroque fountain.
• Tradition of tossing a coin for good luck.
• Beautifully illuminated at night.
• Popular spot for evening strolls.

Spanish Steps

The Spanish Steps, a sweeping set of 135 steps, connect Piazza di Spagna with the Trinità dei Monti church above. The steps are a popular meeting place for both locals and tourists and offer great people-watching opportunities. At the base of the steps, you'll find the Fontana della Barcaccia, a charming fountain designed by Gian Lorenzo Bernini.

Highlights:

• 135 iconic steps leading to Trinità dei Monti.
• Popular meeting place in Piazza di Spagna.
• Fontana della Barcaccia at the base.
• Ideal for people-watching and relaxing.

Piazza Navona

Piazza Navona is one of Rome's most beautiful squares, built on the site of an ancient Roman stadium. It's famous for its stunning Baroque architecture and fountains, including the famous Fontana dei Quattro Fiumi by Bernini. Lined with outdoor cafes, restaurants, and street artists, it’s a lively place to relax and soak in the atmosphere of the Eternal City. The square is especially picturesque in the evening when it lights up and becomes a hub of activity.

Highlights:

• Built on the site of an ancient Roman stadium.
• Home to Bernini's Fontana dei Quattro Fiumi.
• Lively atmosphere with cafes and street artists.
• Especially beautiful in the evening.

Castel Sant’Angelo

Originally built as a mausoleum for Emperor Hadrian, Castel Sant'Angelo later became a fortress and papal residence. Today, it is a museum where visitors can explore its ancient corridors, papal apartments, and panoramic terrace, which offers one of the best views of Rome, particularly of the nearby Vatican. Its unique circular design and layered history make it one of the more intriguing sites to visit in the city.

Highlights:

• Originally Emperor Hadrian’s mausoleum.
• Later used as a fortress and papal residence.
• Features papal apartments and panoramic terrace.
• Offers great views of the Vatican and Rome.

Campo de' Fiori

Campo de' Fiori is one of the most vibrant open-air markets in Rome. By day, it's filled with stalls selling fresh produce, flowers, and artisanal goods. By night, it transforms into a popular nightlife spot with restaurants and bars lining the square. It’s the perfect place to immerse yourself in local life and savor some of Rome’s best street food or fresh ingredients.

Highlights:

• Lively open-air market during the day.
• Known for fresh produce, flowers, and artisanal goods.
• Turns into a nightlife hub after dark.
• Great for experiencing local street food.

Villa Borghese Gardens

The Villa Borghese Gardens offer a peaceful retreat from the bustling city. This large public park features beautiful landscaped gardens, a lake, and numerous fountains and statues. Within the gardens is the Galleria Borghese, an art gallery that houses works by Bernini, Caravaggio, and Raphael. Whether you want to explore art or enjoy a relaxing afternoon in nature, Villa Borghese is a serene escape in the heart of Rome.

Highlights:

• Beautifully landscaped gardens and a lake.
• Home to Galleria Borghese with Renaissance masterpieces.
• Ideal spot for picnics, bike rides, or a leisurely stroll.
• Peaceful retreat from the busy city streets.

Capitoline Museums

Located on Capitoline Hill, the Capitoline Museums are the world’s oldest public museums and house an extensive collection of ancient Roman statues, Renaissance art, and historical artifacts. The museums were designed by Michelangelo, and the building itself is a work of art. Highlights include the Capitoline Wolf, a symbol of Rome, and the Dying Gaul, a famous Roman sculpture. The terrace at the top of the museum offers breathtaking views over the Roman Forum.

Highlights:

• World’s oldest public museums.
• Extensive collection of ancient Roman statues and Renaissance art.
• Designed by Michelangelo.
• Offers panoramic views of the Roman Forum.

Rome offers an unforgettable journey through time, with its ancient landmarks, Renaissance art, and vibrant atmosphere. Whether you are exploring the grandeur of the Colosseum or marveling at the frescoes of the Vatican, every corner of this city tells a story. If you take the time to go see these must-see attractions when you visit, the memories will last you a lifetime!

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