10 Best Places to see in Rome, Italy
/Rome is one of Europe’s oldest and most popular cities. Rich in history, iconic landmarks and architecture. Not to forget that it’s THE place to immerse yourself in Italian cuisine. No guilt required when trying all of the pizzas, pastas and gelato. Washed down with glass of red wine. Honestly, no other delicacies matter here.
Rome has a never-ending list of historical landmarks and buildings. You can’t walk very far (through the crowds) without stumbling upon another piece of history. I’ve compiled a list of the most famous places to visit whilst in the city. You’ll need at least 2-3 days to fully enjoy and experience these top 10. Enjoy!
1. Colosseum.
The most iconic landmark in Rome, and in Italy for that matter. Many people visit the country just for this reason. The Colosseum was built nearly 2,000 years ago and is still the largest amphitheater in the world.
Beware of scammers selling ‘tickets’ outside the Colosseum, I would advise booking online. € 16 for the entrance fee.
2. Trevi Fountain.
The fountain was under refurbishment when I visited back in May 2015, however the magic was still there. Visitors come to Trevi to bring the myth to life - ‘If you throw one coin: you will return to Rome. If you throw two coins: you will fall in love with an attractive Italian. If you throw three coins: you will marry the person that you met.’ I threw 5 coins in and nothing happened…
Fun fact: The Trevi Fountain pumps out over 10 million litres of water per day and is one of the oldest water sources in Rome.
3. Pantheon.
The name Pantheon means ‘temple of all the Gods’ and for sure, it’s still the best preserved monument from Ancient Rome. Nearly 2,000 years old and barely has a scratch!
The Pantheon in the top 5 sights to see in Rome and bonus, it’s free entry!
4. Vatican City.
Fun fact: did you know that the Vatican City is it’s own country? And, it’s the smallest country in the world! Only 1,000 people live here, including the Pope of course.
The cost to visit the Vatican Museum and Sistine Chapel is € 17. Again, book tickets online, or from inside the museum.
5. St. Peter’s Basilica.
The largest church in the world, also located inside the Vatican City. St. Peter’s is at the center of Christianity, in comparison, Mecca in Saudi Arabia for Islam.
Another free entry, however the queues can be monstrous. Visit during the off-peak season (Mon-Sat) for a more peaceful experience.
6. Roman Forum.
My favourite place I visited in Rome, (apart from pizzerias of course!) The Roman Forum is located at the center of the ancient city. It is believed to be the main location for temples, halls and public spaces for the people of Rome to gather. You really feel like you’re walking through history here.
€ 16 for the entrance fee and it’s worth every penny!
7. Castel Sant’Angelo.
One of the most impressive buildings in Rome. You can spend a few hours here exploring the 7 levels of exhibits, amongst other things to see. The museum is known for its cultural and historical value.
€ 12 for entry tickets and only a short distance from The Vatican.
8. Altar of the Fatherland.
The monument symbolises the unification of Italy in 1861 and the first king of Italy, Victor Emmanuel II. The building can be seen from many parts of the Rome. It’s taller than you think!
Free to enter however there is a small fee to visit the panoramic rooftop, which boats some of the best views of the city. A must-see!
9. Arch of Constantine.
Just beside the Colosseum, you’ll find the Arch of Constantine. Not to be confused with the Arc De Triomphe in Paris. The Arch is highly important for Christian history.
10. Spanish Steps.
Full name: Scalinata della Trinità dei Monti, famous for being the widest and longest staircase of Europe, including 12 ramps and 135 steps. They are a huge tourist hotspot, as you can see from my picture. This was by far the busiest area in Rome that I visited. They’re worth the climb as the view from the top is just sensational!
