Best Places to Visit in Rome

Famous for its beauty and panoramic views, Rome is now one of the world's most important tourist sites. After Paris, Rome is the second most visited city in Europe, with an average of 7–10 million visitors yearly, which can quadruple during holy years. For the past two decades, Rome has been one of the world's most visited cities. From museums like Capitoline Museums, Vatican Museums, and Galleria Borghese to the monuments and remains of the Roman Forum and the Catacombs, this city has notable resources to visit.

There are many tourist attractions in Rome that you can visit on your trip and learn more about their culture, such as the Vatican City, Roman Forum, Sistine Chapel and many more. Someone who gets excited listening about secret pathways, can visit Palentine Hill, and get amazed by its features. There is no shortage of places to visit in Rome, and one can enjoy this beautiful city in their own way.

Vatican City
Vatican City
  • The Vatican, officially known as the State of the Vatican City, is the Roman Catholic Church's capital.
  • Vatican City is famous for its architectural marvels, as it is the world's smallest autonomous country.
  • Due to the abundance of historical and religious landmarks, this small nation has its own charm.
  • The Vatican City was established in 326 AD. The first palace was constructed in the fifth century, under Pope Symmachus, to accommodate the rise in habitations and populace.
  • Under the Roman Empire, the Papal States flourished and controlled a large portion of Italy.


Know More: Facts About Vatican City

Sistine Chapel
Sistine Chapel
  • The Sistine Chapel is one of the historical tourist attractions in Rome, which is famed for preserving timeless pieces of history.
  • This church, regarded as one of the world's masterpieces, is admired by visitors from all over the world.
  • The Sistine Chapel is the final stop on the Vatican Museum Tour, and visitors anxiously anticipate seeing this architectural marvel.
  • The chapel was named after the Della Rovere family's Pope Sixtus IV, who commissioned it.


You May Also Book: Sistine Chapel Tickets

Castel Sant' Angelo
Castel Sant' Angelo
  • Castel Sant'Angelo, located on the banks of the Tiber River, is one of Rome's most well-known monuments.
  • This intriguing and strategically planned fortification has stood majestically since its inception, defying the test of time.
  • The structure, which was originally designed as a mausoleum, has served a variety of roles over the years.
  • The National Museum of Castel Sant'Angelo is currently housed in this famous Rome structure.
  • Visitors can learn about the mausoleum's majestic history as a mausoleum, its secret shelter as a Papal palace, and its sad past as a prison and execution yard at this world-famous Romanian landmark.


Click Here to Book Now: Castel Sant Angelo Tickets

Roman Forum
Roman Forum
  • The remnants of ancient monuments, temples, administrative buildings, and public areas can be seen in the Roman Forum, one of the best archaeological places to see in Rome.
  • It was formerly the epicentre of all Roman Empire religious, political, public, and commercial activity, and it is now a prominent tourist attraction in modern-day Rome.
  • The Roman Forum, also known as the Forum Romanum in Latin, is located in the old city's core. It is the most famous attractions in Rome, where you can see the ruins of the once-powerful Roman Empire and marvel at its magnificence.


Book Now: Colosseum and Roman Forum VIP Guided Tour

St. Peter's Basilica
St. Peter's Basilica
  • St. Peter's Basilica considered the hub of Christendom, is one of the Vatican City's most important pilgrimage attractions.
  • This magnificent basilica is considered one of the best places to visit in Rome and houses many Renaissance and Baroque works of art. It is an excellent draw for history buffs since it takes visitors on a journey through Roman history.
  • Various monuments and sculptures built by many outstanding legendary artists can be seen. The Baldachin, Michelangelo's Pietà by Bernini, a statue of St. Longinus, the tomb of Urban VIII, and the bronze cathedral of St. Peter are among the most notable.


Also Book Now: St. Peter's Basilica Tickets And Tours

St. Peter’s Square
St. Peter’s Square
  • St. Peter's Square, commonly known as "Piazza San Pietro," is the city's hub and serves as the entrance to the Vatican ideal for Rome sightseeing.
  • St. Peter's Basilica, the world's second-largest Catholic church, and one of the famous attractions in Rome, is directly in front of the square. Both the Basilica and the Square are named for "Saint Peter," a Christian apostle who is regarded as the first Pope.
  • For Catholic pilgrims, the Vatican City and St. Peter's Square are of great significance. In 1378, the Vatican was designated the primary papal (Pope's) residence.
Vatican Museums
Vatican Museums
  • The Vatican Museum, most famous attraction in Rome, is noted for its expansive interior and eye-catching architecture.
  • When the Laocoon group decided to develop a museum made entirely of marble, the construction of these museums and statues began.
  • This location was private property for the first 10-20 years, but it is now recognised as a national historical and heritage site, making it accessible to the public.
  • There is so much to see in this museum that you can see something new every time.
  • There are many tourist sites in Rome, but these 460 paintings by great artists like Raphael, Leonardo da Vinci, and Caravaggio are a must-see.


Checkout & Book Now: Vatican Museums Tickets

Trevi Fountain
Trevi Fountain
  • The Trevi Fountain, also known as Fontana di Trevi, is the first on the list of famous attractions in Rome.
  • This fountain, a significant free attraction that serves roughly 1,200 visitors each hour, is a traditional icon of this beautiful city.
  • This sculptural monument is located on a square near the intersection of Via di S. Vincenzo, Via del Lavatore, and Via della Stamperia in Rome's ancient centre.
  • The famed Trevi Fountain, built in 1762 and refurbished by Fendi in 2015, is known worldwide as a conceived structure that tells a tale to its viewers.


Do Checkout: Trevi Fountain & Underground Guided Tour

Basilica Of St. John Lateran
Basilica Of St. John Lateran
  • The Basilica of St. John Lateran, known as the world's oldest church, is one of most popular attractions in Rome.
  • Built around the fourth century, this magnificent structure has stood the test of time, surviving earthquakes, fires, and natural disasters.
  • This historic holy location has been blessed by Rome, which is noted for its gorgeous architecture, and is claimed to be the "Mother and Head of All Churches on Earth."
  • Many travellers visit the Basilica of St. John Lateran, which is one of Rome's most magnificent landmasses.
Centro Storico
Centro Storico
  • A junction - Centro Storico - stands in the heart of the city, among all the city's major attractions, with a variety of monuments presenting their own history.
  • This place offers a limitless amount of things to see and do, from prominent Italian high-street companies like Fendi, Gucci, and Versace to on-the-spot brewed beers.
  • Spazio Rossana Orlandi and Galleria Deodato Arte are two of the most well-known art galleries in Centro Storico.
Spanish Steps
Spanish Steps
  • The Spanish Steps, which are located on the lovely Piazza di Spagna, meaning "Spanish Square", are a popular photo op in Rome.
  • The 135-step stairwell is designed in the shape of a butterfly.
  • The characteristic Roman Baroque-style architecture of the steps is guaranteed to pique your curiosity if you are an art expert in Rome.
  • Tourists also come here to climb to the top of the stairs, where they may get a spectacular, panoramic view of the Piazza below.
  • The stairs are bedecked with pink and purple azaleas flowering in all their splendour during the peak of springtime in April.
Santa Maria Maggiore
Santa Maria Maggiore
  • This location, which sits atop Esquiline Hill, showcases a variety of architectural styles.
  • Tourist attractions in Rome are frequently described as being only for art enthusiasts, but Santa Maria Maggiore has much more to offer. Santa Maria Maggiore, with its several portions dating from different centuries, encapsulates the most crucial eras of Christianity in Rome.
  • Santa Maria Maggiore is more well-known among pilgrims as a spiritual site that produces an ambience conducive to prayers and meditation.
  • With such a lovely interior and fascinating history, this location also offers a superb street view of the city's main markets.
 Appian Way
Appian Way
  • The Appian Way, a 370-kilometer highway connecting Rome and Brindisi, was built as a military supply route.
  • This highway, dubbed "the queen of long-distance roads," offers a diverse landscape with several parks and historical monuments.
  • This walk passes through Christian catacombs, destroyed Roman ruins, and an antique church on its way to the Appian mountain.
  • It was also once used by large vehicles and military equipment and is still in use today.
  • The Appian Way was Europe's first freeway, but it is now a tourist attraction in Rome.
Palatine Hill
Palatine Hill
  • The Palatine is a veritable oasis of greenery. This peak, one of the tallest of "the seven hills," was once home to aristocracy and emperors.
  • Palatine Hill, overshadowed by the fame of the Colosseum, offers a new perspective on Rome and its history.
  • For many years, this location has served as an economic, ecclesiastical, and political hub.
  • This location, known as the "first nucleus of the Roman Empire," is one of the best spots to see in Rome, with hundreds of ruins and secret passages.
Borghese Gallery
Borghese Gallery
  • Borghese Gallery in Rome is a hidden gem worth visiting for art aficionados. This gallery, which is housed in the former Palace Borghese Pinciana, a magnificent 17th-century villa, houses some of Bernini's best masterpieces.
  • This is the world's most popular and packed museum, offering a concise education in Italian aesthetics.
  • People are allowed to enter in groups of 350 for 2 hours due to the enormous volume of visitors.
  • Time slots are strictly enforced here, and if they are missed, tickets must be reissued.
  • There are numerous places to visit in Rome, but this one should be at the top of the list because it houses the world's largest art collection.

Explore Now: Borghese Gallery Paintings

Baths Of Caracalla
Baths Of Caracalla
  • The Baths of Caracalla, which were built in the early third century, were an exquisite spa complex featuring gymnasiums, libraries, and elaborate gardens.
  • It is Rome's second-largest bathing complex, with the capacity to accommodate thousands of people at once.
  • What's left today are some of the crumbling brick walls and enormous vaults that have succumbed to the passage of time. As you approach the vast compound, you will be greeted by manicured gardens on both sides.
  • This large stretch of lawns, which was once meticulously maintained, now sees guests sitting down and enjoying a picnic meal.


Do Checkout & Book: Baths Of Caracalla Tickets

Villa Farnesina
Villa Farnesina
  • Built as a holiday residence for a wealthy banker in the early 16th century, this villa is lavishly frescoed throughout.
  • The owner commissioned some of the best artists of the time to design the inside, which turned out to be a masterpiece.
  • This Rome attraction is full of historical ruins and architectural marvels, making it an ideal destination for art lovers.
  • All guests are welcome to visit Villa Farnesina, and you can even enter the opulent chambers and main hall which houses the famous Raphael fresco "The Triumph of Galatea."
National Roman Museum
National Roman Museum
  • The National Roman Museum is a heritage site that consists of four museums in four separate locations throughout Rome.
  • If you enjoy antiques, this is the place for you, as these museums house antiques and historical relics dating back to the fifth century BC.
  • Individual tickets are required because all the museums are run from distinct sites.
  • The location hosts numerous exhibitions and festivals, making it a must-see destination.
  • This Rome attraction can be enhanced by hiring audio advisors who will give you a tour in your own language.
Altar Of The Fatherland
Altar Of The Fatherland
  • The Altar of the Fatherland is a historical monument dedicated to the unification of Italy's first king.
  • This location is known by numerous names, but the locals refer to it as a Roman wedding cake because of its cake-like shape. The roof of this monument, which is made of the highest grade marble, offers the best panoramic perspective of the city.
  • If you're not ascending the rooftop, this site is designed to be open to the public and can be experienced without a ticket.
  • You will need to purchase a ticket to get access to the roof and enjoy the breathtaking views of Rome. It is one of the best locations to see in Rome because of its historic importance.
Piazza Del Popolo
Piazza Del Popolo
  • Piazza del Popolo is an oval-shaped square that has long been a popular gathering spot!
  • It was called after the famous Santa Maria del Popolo church, which is located in one of its corners.
  • It showcases Egyptian obelisks, churches, stained glass windows, and even a couple of Caravaggio paintings as a monument to Rome's cultural grandeur.
  • The Egyptian obelisk from Heliopolis, Egypt, stands in the center of the lovely square.
Trastevere
Trastevere
  • Trastevere, Rome's 13th rione, is part of Municipio I and is bordered on the west by the Tiber, the south by Vatican City, and the north by rione Borgo.
  • Trastevere is one of Italy's historic rione, dating back to 400-500 BC and having witnessed numerous battles and conflicts.
  • Trastevere is known for its stunning architecture and narrow streets.
  • It is one of Rome's riones that has received more international visitors than domestic visitors.
  • Some of the city's oldest stores and cafes are housed behind the colorful walls of the rione's numerous structures.
  • Trastevere is a popular neighborhood because it is close to the Vatican and the Colosseum.
Tempio Maggiore Di Roma
Tempio Maggiore Di Roma
  • The Tempio Maggiore di Roma is the city of Rome's cultural and tourist center. Rome's
  • Jewish Ghetto, the Tempio Maggiore di Roma, is one of the most well-known tourist destinations in the city and has a long history of unexpectedly cutting-edge, imaginative architecture.

  • Visitors can purchase a range of homemade and farm products at this spot, which is tucked away in the middle of town.

  • Tempio Maggiore di Roma is a spiritual hub for many Jewish people from all over the world, and is known for its kosher street cuisine.

Piazza Di Spagna
Piazza Di Spagna
  • Piazza di Spagna is a crossroads in the heart of Rome, located at the bottom of Pincio hill and connected to its surroundings by a sweeping staircase.
  • Since the thirteenth century, this location has been a favorite hangout site for intellectuals and artists, and it used to be surrounded by a modest collection of distinctive structures.

  • The Trevi Fountain, also known as the Spanish Steps, is located at the bottom of the stairway and is popular among tourists for tourists casting coins into its holy water.

Piazza Venezia
Piazza Venezia
  • Piazza Venezia is a square in Venice, Italy. The name alone conjures up a slew of images, ranging from history's fascist dictator Benito Mussolini to beloved actor Albert Sordi.
  • The massive white marble monument known as the Victtoriano is the first object that draws your eye as you enter the Piazza.
  • From its terrace, the famous landmark houses a museum and offers a magnificent view of Rome.
  • The piazza was constructed in the 18th century, but many of its historical buildings were later removed to make way for the colossal space.

Places to Visit in Rome FAQs

What are the most visited places in Rome?

    • The Colosseum - Just like Eiffel Tower is to Paris, the Colosseum is the most significant landmark of Rome attracting numerous tourists from all across the globe.
    • Foro Romano - Step back into the heart of ancient Rome, Foro Romano will take you through the history of the city.
    • The Pantheon - Remarkably intact from over two thousand years, the Pantheon is the most preserved monument of Rome.
    • Fontana di Trevi - This 17th century monument is immortalized in movies as it makes for a great backdrop in photos and art.

What's Rome famous for?

Why is Rome a popular tourist destination?

What is the best time to visit Rome?

How many days is enough to spend in Rome?

Is Rome worth visiting?

What are the best Rome day tours?

What are the 3 best places to visit in Italy?

Explore Rome