What to see in Rome: 8 places not to be missed
Welcome to Rome, one of the most fascinating cities in the world, a place where past and present merge in a unique atmosphere. Rome is not only the capital of Italy, it is a veritable open-air museum. Every corner, every street and every square encapsulates centuries of history, art and culture. If you are planning your trip here, get ready to discover extraordinary places, where every stone tells a story. In this guide I will take you through the most iconic sights of the Eternal City, revealing interesting facts and tips to make your experience even more special. Ready to go?
1. The Colosseum
The Colosseum is undoubtedly one of the most iconic symbols of Rome and the whole of Italy. Built between 70 and 80 A.D. at the behest of Emperor Vespasian, it was the largest amphitheatre in ancient Rome, capable of seating between 50,000 and 80,000 spectators. Inside, events that today we would call bloody took place, such as gladiator fights, venationes (hunting ferocious beasts) and even simulated naval battles, the famous naumachiae. Today, walking inside the Colosseum is like stepping back in time, imagining the crowds cheering and cheering on their gladiatorial heroes. In addition to visiting the stands, I highly recommend you book a tour of the underground areas: these hidden spaces reveal the mechanisms that allowed fighters and animals to enter the arena through trapdoors and rudimentary lifts. Don't forget to also take a walk outside to admire the majesty of the structure, especially at sunset, when the sun tints the Colosseum in golden hues.
Worth visiting because: is an exciting testimony to the grandeur and splendour of ancient Rome.
2. Piazza Navona
One of the most fascinating squares in Rome, Piazza Navona is a true jewel of the Baroque period. Built on the site of the ancient Stadium of Domitian, it still retains the elongated shape of what was once a Roman stadium for athletic competitions. Today, the square is famous for its beautiful fountains, the most famous of which is the Fontana dei Quattro Fiumi, designed by the great Gian Lorenzo Bernini. The fountain represents the four great rivers of the known world at the time: the Nile, the Ganges, the Danube and the Rio de la Plata. Each sculpted figure tells a story and deep symbolism related to the continents they represent. Piazza Navona is a perfect place to relax in one of the many outdoor cafés, sipping an espresso or enjoying an ice cream, while watching the street performers animate the area. If you visit Rome during the Christmas period, you will also find one of the city's most atmospheric Christmas markets, with stalls full of decorations, sweets and typical products.
Worth visiting because: the square is a perfect example of Baroque art and a lively place to experience the authentic Roman atmosphere.
3. The Pantheon
Just a few minutes from Piazza Navona, stands majestically the Pantheon, one of the best preserved Roman temples in the world. Originally built as a temple dedicated to all the gods, the Pantheon was completed in 27 B.C. during the reign of Agrippa, but the building we see today is the result of a reconstruction that took place during Hadrian's reign, around 120 A.D. The real wonder of the Pantheon is its dome, an engineering masterpiece that still amazes architects and visitors today. With a diameter of 43.3 metres, it is the largest unarmoured dome in the world, and at its centre is the oculus, a circular opening 9 metres in diameter that allows light to enter, creating a striking effect inside the temple. The Pantheon is not only a monumental building, it is also the burial place of some of the greatest figures in Italian history, such as the painter Raphael Sanzio and the kings of Italy Victor Emmanuel II and Umberto I. If you have time, sit on the steps outside and savour the calmness of this part of the city, despite the constant coming and going of tourists.
Worth visiting because: is a unique architectural masterpiece, with one of the most incredible domes in the world
4. Trevi Fountain
The Trevi Fountain is probably the most famous fountain in the world, made even more famous by cinema, thanks to iconic films such as Federico Fellini's 'La Dolce Vita'. This Baroque masterpiece was designed by Nicola Salvi and completed in 1762, and is one of the most popular attractions for visitors. Legend has it that throwing a coin into the fountain with one's right hand, while one's back is turned, will ensure a return to Rome in the future. Every day, thousands of coins are thrown into the fountain, which are then collected and donated to local charities. The fountain represents Ocean driving a shell-shaped chariot, pulled by sea horses, and is a tribute to the strength and beauty of water. If you want my advice, visit it at night: the lighting makes it even more spectacular and romantic, especially if you want to take memorable photos.
Worth visiting because: is a world-famous Baroque masterpiece, full of charm and legend.
5. The Vatican and St Peter's Basilica
Although the Vatican is technically an independent state, no visit to Rome is complete without a stop here. St. Peter's Basilica is the centre of Christianity and one of the largest and most impressive churches in the world. Its construction began in 1506 and ended in 1626, under the guidance of some of the greatest architects and artists of the Renaissance, including Michelangelo, Bernini and Bramante. One of the most moving works inside is Michelangelo's Pieta, a sculpture that depicts Mary holding the body of Christ just taken down from the cross. Don't miss the chance to climb the dome, designed by Michelangelo: after a climb of 551 steps (or with the help of a lift), you will be rewarded with a breathtaking view of Rome and the Vatican City. The Vatican Museums are another must-see: inside you will find priceless art treasures, culminating in the Sistine Chapel, where you can admire the famous Last Judgement fresco, painted by Michelangelo.
Worth visiting because: combines faith, art and architecture in one of the most sacred and iconic places in the world.
6. Villa Borghese
After walking among the monuments and busy streets of Rome, a break at Villa Borghese is ideal for relaxation. This large park, one of the most beautiful and best-loved in the city, is perfect for a stroll among Italian gardens, ponds and lawns. Inside, the Galleria Borghese is one of the city's most fascinating art galleries, housing masterpieces such as sculptures by Gian Lorenzo Bernini (including the unforgettable Apollo and Daphne) and paintings by Caravaggio and Titian. The park is the perfect place for a picnic, a bike ride or simply to stretch out in the shade of the trees and enjoy a rejuvenating break from the pace of the city.
Worth visiting because: is an oasis of tranquillity in the heart of Rome, perfect for relaxing and admiring masterpieces of art.
7. Trastevere
Trastevere is one of Rome's most authentic and picturesque neighbourhoods. Located on the western bank of the Tiber River, this district is famous for its narrow, cobbled streets, colourful ivy-covered houses and relaxed atmosphere. Here you will find a wide selection of restaurants and trattorias offering traditional Roman cuisine, with dishes such as pasta cacio e pepe, amatriciana and saltimbocca alla romana. Trastevere is also the ideal place for an evening stroll: its small squares come alive with street performers, markets and clubs offering live music. If you want to experience the most authentic atmosphere of Roman life, this is the place to be.
8. The Capitol
The Capitoline Hill is one of the seven hills on which Rome was founded, and despite its relatively small size compared to other parts of the city, it has enormous historical, symbolic and artistic importance. This place was the political and religious heart of ancient Rome, where the most important temples were located and where crucial decisions for the empire took place. Today, Piazza del Campidoglio, designed by the Renaissance genius Michelangelo Buonarroti, is a masterpiece of elegance and harmony. In the 16th century, Pope Paul III Farnese commissioned Michelangelo to reorganise this important area of the city, which was to reflect the power and grandeur of Rome. The result is a trapezoidal-shaped square, with a geometric pavement that guides the eye towards the equestrian statue of Marcus Aurelius, one of the square's iconic works (although the one we see today is a copy, the original is in the Capitoline Museums).
What to see in Rome in 1 day: itinerary
If you only have one day to visit Rome, it is important to plan your time well to be able to see the most iconic sites without rushing. I suggest an itinerary with indicative times, time of stay and how to get around, to make the most of your day.
8:30 - Colosseum and Roman Forum (2 hours)
- Recommended timetable: Start the day early, at 8.30am, when the Colosseum opens to the public.
- Dwell time: Spend about 1 hour visiting the Colosseum and 1 hour in the Roman Forum.
- Modes of travel: On foot (the Forum is located next to the Colosseum).
I recommend booking tickets online to avoid queues. Start with the Colosseum, immersing yourself in the history of gladiators, and then go through the Roman Forum, where you will walk among the ruins of the ancient city.
Total stay: 2 hours
10:45 - Pantheon (30 minutes)
- Recommended timetable: Arrival at 10.45 a.m.
- Dwell time: 30 minutes.
- Modes of travel: Take the metro B from the Colosseo stop to Cavour, then walk for about 10 minutes (15 minutes total).
After your visit to the Forum, head to the Pantheon. Admission is free and you will have time to admire its extraordinary dome and learn more about its origins.
Total stay: 30 minutes
11:30 - Piazza Navona (45 minutes)
- Recommended timetable: Arrival at 11.30 a.m.
- Dwell time: 45 minutes.
- Modes of travel: 10 minutes' walk from the Pantheon.
Piazza Navona is the ideal place for a short break. You could sit in one of the cafés and enjoy an ice cream while admiring the Fontana dei Quattro Fiumi and the street performers. If you want to take a break, now is the time!
Total stay: 45 minutes
12:30 - Trevi Fountain (30 minutes)
- Recommended timetable: Arrival at 12.30 p.m.
- Dwell time: 30 minutes.
- Modes of travel: 10 minutes' walk from Piazza Navona.
Continue to the famous Trevi Fountain. Toss a coin into the fountain and take some souvenir photos. Despite the crowds, it's a must-see!
Total stay: 30 minutes
13:00 - Lunch break (1 hour)
- Recommended timetable: Break from 1 p.m. to 2 p.m.
- Tip: Eat in a trattoria near the Trevi Fountain or the Spanish Steps. Typical dishes like pasta carbonara are a must!
Take an hour to relax and enjoy Roman cuisine. Find a local restaurant that is not too touristy and enjoy a restorative meal.
Total stay: 1 hour
14:30 - Vatican and St Peter's Basilica (2 hours)
- Recommended timetable: Arrival at 2.30 p.m.
- Dwell time: 2 hours.
- Modes of travel: Take the metro A from the Spagna stop to the Ottaviano stop (15 minutes).
Dedicate the afternoon to the Vatican. Start with a visit to St Peter's Basilica. You can either climb the dome for a breathtaking panoramic view (takes about 45 minutes longer), or explore the interior of the basilica with its works of art. If time permits, also visit the Vatican Museums and the Sistine Chapel (you will need about 1.5 hours more).
Total stay: 2 hours (St Peter's Basilica)
17:00 - Trastevere for dinner (evening)
- Recommended timetable: Arrival at 17:00.
- Dwell time: 1.5-2 hours.
- Modes of travel: Take the bus 64 from the Vatican and get off at Trastevere (20-minute ride).
End your day in Trastevere, one of Rome's most characteristic neighbourhoods. Enjoy the bohemian atmosphere as you stroll through the cobbled streets. Find a traditional trattoria and end the evening with a typical Roman dinner.
Total stay: free evening
Itinerary Summary
- 8:30 - 10:30: Colosseum and Roman Forum
- 10:45 - 11:15: Pantheon
- 11:30 - 12:15Piazza Navona
- 12:30 - 13:00: Trevi Fountain
- 13:00 - 14:00: Lunch Break
- 14:30 - 16:30: St. Peter's Basilica (option: Vatican Museums)
- 17:00 - 19:00Trastevere for dinner
With this itinerary, you will be able to see the main sights of Rome in one day. Enjoy your visit and enjoy every moment of your Roman adventure!
What to see in Rome in 2 days: itinerary
Rome is a city rich in history, art and culture, and two days is a great starting point to discover some of its most iconic wonders. This itinerary will take you through the main monuments, allowing you to explore the Eternal City with a little more calm than a single-day tour.
Day 1: Antiquities and Old Town
1. Colosseum and Roman Forum (8:30 - 11:00)
Suggested timetable: It starts at 8.30 a.m. to avoid crowds.
- Dwell time: 2.5 hours
- Modes of travel: On foot (the Forum is located next to the Colosseum).
Start your day by visiting the Colosseum and the Roman Forum, the heart of ancient Rome. The Colosseum is the symbol of the city, and the Forum will allow you to walk among the ancient ruins and discover how daily life was organised in the Roman Empire.
Curiosity: The Colosseum was completed in 80 A.D. and is still the largest amphitheatre ever built.
2. the Capitol (11:15 - 12:15)
- Dwell time: 1 hour
- Modes of travel: 10 minutes' walk from the Forum.
After visiting the Forum, go up to the Campidoglio, one of the seven hills of Rome. Here you will find one of the city's most elegant piazzas, designed by Michelangelo, and enjoy a splendid view of the ancient city.
Curiosity: The equestrian statue of Marcus Aurelius in the centre of the square is a copy, while the original is kept in the Capitoline Museums.
3. Pantheon (13:00 - 13:30)
- Dwell time: 30 minutes
- Modes of travel: 10 minutes' walk from the Capitol.
Continue to the Pantheon, a marvel of Roman engineering, with its extraordinary dome. It is one of the best preserved ancient monuments in the world, and admission is free.
Curiosity: The Pantheon's dome has a diameter of 43.3 metres, and the oculus in the centre is the only source of natural light.
4. Piazza Navona (13:45 - 14:30)
- Dwell time: 45 minutes
- Modes of travel: 10 minutes' walk from the Pantheon.
Piazza Navona is one of Rome's most famous and lively squares, with its Baroque fountains, including Bernini's Fontana dei Quattro Fiumi. Take a break and enjoy an ice cream in one of the cafés overlooking the square.
Curiosity: The square retains the elliptical shape of Domitian's ancient stadium, which stood here.
5. Trevi Fountain (15:00 - 15:30)
- Dwell time: 30 minutes
- Modes of travel: 10 minutes' walk from Piazza Navona.
You can't visit Rome without stopping at the Trevi Fountain! Toss a coin into the fountain to make sure you return to Rome one day.
Curiosity: Approximately 3,000 euros are collected every day from the coins thrown into the fountain.
6. Piazza di Spagna and Trinità dei Monti (16:00 - 17:00)
- Dwell time: 1 hour
- Modes of travel: 10 minutes' walk from the Trevi Fountain.
End the day with a visit to the Spanish Steps and the famous Spanish Steps. From here, you can climb the steps for a panoramic view of the city or explore the luxury boutiques along Via Condotti.
Curiosity: The staircase consists of 135 steps and was built between 1723 and 1725.
Evening in Trastevere
Trastevere is the perfect place to end the evening with a typical Roman dinner. Stroll through the picturesque streets and choose one of the many trattorias to enjoy dishes like carbonara or cacio e pepe.
Curiosity: Trastevere was originally a working-class neighbourhood, today it is one of the most lively and popular areas for Romans and tourists.
Day 2: Art, culture and spirituality
1. Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel (8:30 - 12:00)
Suggested timetable: He arrives early, around 8.30am.
- Dwell time: 3.5 hours
- Modes of travel: Take the metro A from the Spagna stop to Ottaviano (15 minutes).
Spend the morning visiting the Vatican Museums, where you will find some of the world's most famous masterpieces, including the Sistine Chapel with Michelangelo's frescoes. It is advisable to book tickets in advance to avoid the long queues.
Curiosity: The Vatican Museums contain more than 70,000 works of art, but only a fraction are on public display.
2. St. Peter's Basilica (12:00 - 13:30)
- Dwell time: 1.5 hours
- Modes of travel: 5 minutes' walk from the Vatican Museums.
Continue with a visit to St Peter's Basilica, one of the holiest sites in the Christian world. Don't miss the chance to climb the dome for a breathtaking view of Rome. Admission to the basilica is free, but there is a charge to climb the dome.
Curiosity: St. Peter's Basilica is the largest Christian church in the world, with a length of 187 metres.
3. Castel Sant'Angelo (14:00 - 15:30)
- Dwell time: 1.5 hours
- Modes of travel: 10 minutes' walk from St Peter's Square.
After lunch, visit Castel Sant'Angelo, originally built as a mausoleum for Emperor Hadrian and later converted into a papal fortress. Today it is a museum offering a spectacular panoramic view of the city.
Curiosity: A secret passage connects Castel Sant'Angelo with the Vatican, used by the popes in case of emergency.
4. Villa Borghese and Borghese Gallery (16:00 - 18:00)
- Dwell time: 2 hours
- Modes of travel: Take a bus from the Vatican to Villa Borghese or walk (about 20 minutes).
End your afternoon at Villa Borghese, a large park in the heart of Rome, perfect for a relaxing stroll. If you love art, don't miss the Galleria Borghese, which houses masterpieces by Caravaggio, Bernini and Raphael.
Curiosity: The Galleria Borghese houses one of the most important private art collections in the world.
Free evening
For your last evening in Rome, you can return to Trastevere for dinner or choose a restaurant near the historic centre to enjoy some more of the Roman atmosphere.
2-Day Itinerary Summary
Day 1:
- 8:30 - 11:00: Colosseum and Roman Forum
- 11:15 - 12:15: Capitol
- 13:00 - 13:30: Pantheon
- 13:45 - 14:30: Piazza Navona
- 15:00 - 15:30: Trevi Fountain
- 16:00 - 17:00: Spanish Steps
- Evening: Trastevere
Day 2:
- 8:30 - 12:00: Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel
- 12:00 - 13:30: St Peter's Basilica
- 14:00 - 15:30: Castel Sant'Angelo
- 16:00 - 18:00: Villa Borghese and Borghese Gallery
- Evening: Free
With this itinerary, you will be able to see the main attractions of Rome, exploring antiquity, art and spirituality in two intense but unforgettable days!
What to see in Rome in 3 days: itinerary
Three days in Rome allow you to thoroughly explore not only its most famous attractions, but also lesser-known and authentic corners. This itinerary will guide you through the wonders of the eternal city, enriching you with history, art and culture.
Day 1: Ancient icons and the historic centre
1. Colosseum, Roman Forum and Palatine (8:30 - 12:00)
Suggested timetable: It starts early, at 8.30 am.
- Dwell time: 3.5 hours
- Modes of travel: On foot.
Start your adventure with the Colosseum, the symbol of Rome. Continue by exploring the Roman Forum and the Palatine Hill, the heart of the ancient city.
Curiosity: The Palatine is one of the seven hills of Rome and is considered to be the founding place of the city.
2. The Capitol (12:15 - 13:00)
- Dwell time: 45 minutes
- Modes of travel: Walking distance from the Roman Forum (5 minutes).
Climb the Campidoglio steps, designed by Michelangelo, to admire the square and enjoy a spectacular view of the Forum.
Curiosity: The Piazza del Campidoglio is one of the most famous examples of Renaissance architecture.
3. Pantheon (14:00 - 14:30)
- Dwell time: 30 minutes
- Modes of travel: 10 minutes' walk from the Capitol.
After a lunch break, visit the Pantheon, one of the best preserved ancient buildings in the world.
Curiosity: The Pantheon is the largest unreinforced concrete dome ever built.
4. Piazza Navona (14:45 - 15:30)
- Dwell time: 45 minutes
- Modes of travel: 10 minutes' walk from the Pantheon.
Continue to Piazza Navona, one of the most atmospheric squares in Rome, famous for Bernini's Fountain of the Four Rivers.
Curiosity: Piazza Navona is built on the ancient Stadium of Domitian.
5. Trevi Fountain (16:00 - 16:30)
- Dwell time: 30 minutes
- Modes of travel: 10 minutes' walk from Piazza Navona.
You can't miss the Trevi Fountain! Flip a coin to make sure you return to Rome.
Curiosity: Approximately 1.5 million euros are collected each year from the coins thrown into the fountain.
6. Piazza di Spagna and Trinità dei Monti (17:00 - 18:00)
- Dwell time: 1 hour
- Modes of travel: 10 minutes' walk from the Trevi Fountain.
End the day at the Spanish Steps. As you climb the Spanish Steps, you will have a magnificent view of the city.
Curiosity: The staircase was built to connect the Spanish embassy to the Trinità dei Monti church.
Evening in Trastevere
End your first day in the characteristic Trastevere district, famous for its restaurants and bohemian atmosphere.
Day 2: Vatican Museums and Surroundings
1. Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel (8:30 - 12:30)
Suggested timetable: He arrives early, at 8.30am.
- Dwell time: 4 hours
- Modes of travel: Take the metro A to the Ottaviano stop.
Devote the morning to visiting the Vatican Museums, exploring masterpieces of art culminating in the Sistine Chapel and the ceiling frescoed by Michelangelo.
Curiosity: The Vatican Museums contain over 70,000 works of art, but only 20,000 are on public display.
2. St. Peter's Basilica (12:30 - 14:00)
- Dwell time: 1.5 hours
- Modes of travel: 5 minutes' walk from the Vatican Museums.
Continue with a visit to St Peter's Basilica. You can also climb the dome for an incredible view of Rome.
Curiosity: St Peter's Basilica is the burial place of the Apostle Peter, one of the founders of the Catholic Church.
3. Castel Sant'Angelo (14:30 - 16:00)
- Dwell time: 1.5 hours
- Modes of travel: 10 minutes' walk from St Peter's Basilica.
After lunch, visit Castel Sant'Angelo, built as a mausoleum for Emperor Hadrian and later transformed into a papal fortress.
Curiosity: The Passetto di Borgo, a secret corridor, connects Castel Sant'Angelo with the Vatican.
4. Piazza del Popolo (16:30 - 17:30)
- Dwell time: 1 hour
- Modes of travel: Take a bus or walk (15 minutes).
End the afternoon with a stroll to Piazza del Popolo, where you can visit the church of Santa Maria del Popolo, famous for Caravaggio's paintings.
Curiosity: Piazza del Popolo was the entry point for those arriving in Rome from the north.
Evening at Villa Borghese
End the day at Villa Borghese, where you can walk in the park or visit the Borghese Gallery if you are an art lover.
Day 3: Explore authentic neighbourhoods and modern Rome
1. Borghese Gallery (9:00 - 11:00)
Suggested timetable: It starts at 9 a.m.
- Dwell time: 2 hours
- Modes of travel: Walk if you are close to Villa Borghese, or take a bus.
The Galleria Borghese is one of the most beautiful museums in Rome and houses works by artists such as Caravaggio, Bernini and Raphael.
Curiosity: The villa was built by Cardinal Scipione Borghese to house his private art collection.
2. The Coppedè district (11:30 - 12:30)
- Dwell time: 1 hour
- Modes of travel: Take a bus or walk (about 20 minutes).
Discover the Coppedè district, a hidden and surreal corner of Rome, famous for its eccentric architecture and Art Nouveau influences.
Curiosity: The district was designed by architect Gino Coppedè in the early 20th century and is a mixture of fantastic architectural styles.
3. Aventine and Orange Garden (13:30 - 14:30)
- Dwell time: 1 hour
- Modes of travel: Take a bus to the Aventine.
In the afternoon, visit the Aventine Hill and enjoy a splendid view of Rome from the Orange Garden. Don't forget to look through the keyhole of the Priory of the Knights of Malta for an unexpected view of St Peter's dome.
Curiosity: The keyhole aligned perfectly with the dome is one of Rome's best-kept secrets.
4. Testaccio (15:00 - 17:00)
- Dwell time: 2 hours
- Modes of travel: 10 minutes' walk from the Aventine.
End the afternoon in the Testaccio district, famous for its market and authentic Roman cuisine. If you love street food, this is the place to go for supplì, pizza and more.
Curiosity: Testaccio takes its name from Monte Testaccio, an artificial hill formed by ancient terracotta amphorae.
Evening in the Jewish Ghetto
End your visit to Rome with dinner in the Jewish Ghetto, a neighbourhood steeped in history and famous for its Jewish-Roman cuisine restaurants.
Curiosity: The Ghetto of Rome is one of the oldest in the world, established in 1555.
3-Day Itinerary Summary
Day 1:
- 8:30 - 12:00: Colosseum, Roman Forum and Palatine
- 12:15 - 13:00: Capitol
- 14:00 - 14:30: Pantheon
- 14:45 - 15:30: Piazza Navona
- 16:00 - 16:30: Trevi Fountain
- 17:00 - 18:00: Piazza di Spagna and Trinità dei Monti
- Evening: Trastevere
Day 2:
- 8:30 - 12:30: Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel
- 12:30 - 14:00: St Peter's Basilica
- 14:30 - 16:00: Castel Sant'Angelo
- 16:30 - 17:30: People's Square
- Evening: Villa Borghese
Day 3:
- 9:00 - 11:00: Borghese Gallery
- 11:30 - 12:30: Coppedè neighbourhood
- 13:30 - 14:30: Aventine and Orange Garden
- 15:00 - 17:00: Testaccio
- Evening: Jewish Ghetto
This three-day itinerary will take you to the most famous places in Rome along with lesser-known but fascinating areas, guaranteeing a complete experience of the Eternal City.
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Colosseum mon amour!
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