Let’s start with 10 places that every traveler should check out while in Rome:
1. COLOSSEUM
Probably the most visited attraction in Rome and the whole Italy. Also known as the Flavian Amphitheatre, it is located in the center of the city and it is the largest amphitheatre ever built. The construction began in 72 AD and it was used for gladiatorial contests and public spectacles.
The ticket costs 12 Eur/full price, 7.5 Eur/reduced for European Union members between 18 and 25 years and free for all citizens under 18 years old.
* This price includes entrance to Colosseum, Roman Forum and Palatine Hill.
More info: http://www.il-colosseo.it/en/informazioni-colosseo.php
If you want to read more about visiting the Colosseum, facts and hystory, Book Mundi has a great travel blog on this subject. You can find it HERE.
2. TREVI FOUNTAIN
My favorite attraction in Rome. I actually went twice to be able to get a good picture with this fountain but it was renovated two years in a row so I had no luck. This changed in February this year when I was able to admire its beauty and also take some perfect shots. I recommend seeing it both by day and by night. It is so beautifully lightened. Do not forget to toss a coin into the fountain and make a wish <3
More info: http://www.trevifountain.net/
3. ROMAN FORUM
The archaeological area between Piazza Venezia and the Coliseum. This is a must visit if you are passionate about roman ruins due to the fact that it is the largest archaeological site in the world.
It is a rectangular plaza surrounded by the ruins of several important ancient government buildings at the center of the city of Rome.
*This attraction is included in the Colosseum ticket.
More info: http://www.il-colosseo.it/en/foro-romano-palatino.php
4. PANTHEON
It is a former Roman temple, now a church, in Rome. The building is circular and the main attraction is the central opening to the sky. this is the best preserved ancient Roman monument.
The word Pantheon is a Greek adjective meaning “honor all Gods”. In fact the Pantheon was first built as a temple to all gods.
There is no admission charge.
More info: https://www.rome.info/pantheon/
5. PETER’S BASILICA VATICAN
Vatican State symbol and center of Catholicism, it is the largest of the four papal basilicas of Rome and the largest Catholic church in the world. You should not miss out on climbing to the top of the dome, where a stunning view of St Peter’s Square awaits.
Entering the basilica is free of charge. If you want to climb to the top, this will cost you 6 Eur by foot (551 steps) and 8 Eur by lift + by foot (320 steps).
More info:
http://www.vaticanstate.va/content/vaticanstate/en/monumenti/basilica-di-s-pietro.html
6. VATICAN MUSEUM AND THE SISTINE CHAPEL
This does not require any presentation. Definitely a must while in Rome, the Sistine Chapel by Michelangelo awaits for you. Do not forget to book in advance the tickets since the queue is way too long.
The full price is 16 EUR/person, but you will have to pay 4 EUR/person for the online booking fee. Believe me, it is definitely worth it because you skip the lines.
More info:
http://www.museivaticani.va/content/museivaticani/en/visita-i-musei/tariffe-e-biglietti.html
7. CASTEL SANT’ANGELO
It was built around 123 A.C to be the monumental tomb of the emperor Adrian and his family. The Castle has undergone many renovations during centuries and its destination changed several times, from imperial mausoleum to a prison and even a Renaissance fashion residence.
Visiting the castle is quite expensive – Full price ticket: 18,50 EUR/person and I must admit I liked it better from outside than inside, but it is up to you.
More info on reduced tickets:
https://www.ticketsrome.com/en/museum-reservations/castel-sant-angelo-tickets
8. SPANISH STEPS
If you are searching for the perfect spot to relax and enjoy the Italian atmosphere, this is the place for you. The 138 stairs connect the lower Piazza di Spagna with the upper piazza Trinita dei Monti.
In the evening, people gather here and listen to street music while eating the perfect gelato.
9. PALATINE HILL
Located 40 meters above the Roman Forum, the Palatine Hill is the most central of the seven hills of Romeand forms one of the oldest parts of the city.
According to Roman mythology, the Palatine Hill was the location of the cave, known as the Lupercal, where Romulus and Remus were found by the she-wolf Lupa that kept them alive.
*If you buy the Colosseum ticket, the entrance is included.
More info: https://www.rome.net/palatine-hill
10. VIA VENETO
It is one of the most famous, elegant, and expensive streets of Rome. If you have seen the classical La dolce vita movie, you are probably familiar with it. Shopping addicts should stop directly here! Prepare your wallets though 😉
You should sip a cocktail at the famous Café de Paris – Rome between your shopping sessions.
LANDMARK SQUARES
Making a tour of the famous picturesque piazzas is definitely another great thing to do while in Rome. Here are the most popular and I recommend checking all them out:
- Piazza di Spagna
- Piazza Navona
- Piazza Venezia
- Piazza del Popolo
- Campo dei Fiori
MUSEUMS
If you are an art lover, Rome is the place for you. You have a great list of museums to choose from and here are my top 5 recommendations:
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- Vatican Museum
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- Galleria Borghese
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- Capitoline Museums
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- Quirinal Palace
- Galleria Nazionale d’Arte Antica
AROUND ROME
Last, but not least, if you have one more day to explore, do not hesitate to go to Tivoli and visit two beautiful residences, both famous UNESCO World Heritage sites: Hadrian’s Villa and Villa d’Este. You can get there by train or bus. I did this like 6 years ago so it is hard for me to give you more details, but I do know I chose the bus option that leaves you closer to Villa d’Este than the train.
Do not forget to check out my previous post on 10 MANDATORY THINGS TO DO IN ROME.
Click here for the COMPLETE TRAVEL GUIDE TO ROME so you can find out more about accommodation, budget, places to eat, transportation and how to get into the city.
For any other tips & tricks, I am waiting you on Facebook and Instagram.
See you soon!
Love,
Blonde around the World
*** All pictures without the Blonde around the World watermark from this travel blog are from Google. All the credit goes to the rightful owners.