Top Attractions in Rome
Rome City Guide
If you need ten reasons why you should book a trip to the Eternal City or you’re visiting soon, we have the ultimate city guide for you. After more than 2000 years in existence, there are A LOT of things to see and do in Rome that would keep you busy for a lifetime. We also can’t go on without mentioning how amazing the pizza, pasta, and gelato are here! Without further ado, here are a few attractions that you cannot miss out on during a first-time visit to this beautiful metropolitan city, Rome!
1. The Colosseum
You cannot take a trip to Rome and not visit this iconic attraction! The mighty structure of the Colosseum has become one of the most renowned landmarks in the world, therefore it should be at the top of your list of things to do while in Rome. Constructed between 70-80 AD, this landmark estimated to hold 80k during its peak. Its common knowledge that this building hosted gladiator tournaments and other forms of entertainment that would be frequently attended by Roman Emperors. As it’s the iconic symbol of the city, prepare for large queues if you don’t book in advance, but it is worth it once you’re inside!
2. Sightseeing from a different perspective at Rome’s St Peter’s Basilica & Square
Rome is packed with recognizable landmarks, St Peter’s Basilica is one of many and it is one of the most celebrated religious buildings in the world! Located at the far end of St Peter’s Square, the Basilica has a beautifully structured front facade crowned with statues of Jesus and his Apostles. Inside the Basilica is something else, it is definitely one of the most beautiful buildings you will ever see! Michelangelo and Bernini contributed to the design of this immense dome and structure. Pictured above is the aerial view you can experience of St Peter’s Square if you climb to the top of the dome, one of the best attractions in Rome.
3. Admire ancient ruins at Roman Forum
The Roman Forum holds some of the most important Roman ruins that Italy has. The Forum is an ancient site that consists of many ruins that were once the center of Roman political and public life. You wouldn’t believe the various squares, temples, and arches that once stood here, like the temples of Saturn, Titus, and Vesta. Parts of these structures are actually still standing! It’s located next to the Colosseum and Altar of the Fatherland, meaning there’s no excuse for missing out on this historic site. Allow enough time to be able to explore this attraction and learn about the strong history of Rome.
4. One of Rome’s most mesmerizing attractions, the Trevi Fountain
One of the most popular attractions in Rome has to be the lavishly decorated Trevi Fountain. Nicola Salvi constructed the fountain in 1762 to pay tribute to the Roman God, Oceanus. The fountain was designed to depict him riding a chariot pulled by Tritons and taming several hippocampus. The sheer detail of this sculpture is breathtaking, a true work of art. When you finally get to the fountain, go down and throw coins into the water, over your shoulder for good luck!
5. Explore The Pantheon
Once a 2000-year-old temple, now the best preserved ancient monument Rome has. The Pantheon was built by Hadrian in AD 125 over Marcus Agrippa’s earlier 27 BC temple. This attraction offers visitors a unique and exhilarating experience from the minute they pass through the bronze doors and gaze up at the largest unreinforced concrete dome ever built.
6. Vatican Museum and Sistine Chapel
When in Rome, we recommend visiting these popular attractions. The Sistine Chapel is one of the most renowned religious chapels in the world and is part of the Vatican Museum complex. This is the very place where the papal enclave is held and where the new pope is selected! While it’s famous for the religious associations, the palace is famous for its extensive and detailed decorations, including the Last Judgement by Michelangelo and the ceiling artwork.
7. Sightseeing from Rome’s Spanish Steps
Piazza di Spagna may be democratic, but it is home to the city’s fanciest boutiques on Via dei Condotti, Rome’s legendary shopping street. Climbing the famous steps is one of the most popular things to do while in Rome, as it leads you to the Trinità dei Monti church to admire the piazza and Bernini’s ship-shaped fountain from above.
8. Piazza Navona
The Piazza Navona is another attraction in Rome that involves breathtaking fountain artwork! Built during the 15th Century and on the site of the stadium of Domitian, the Piazza Navona has remained a popular sightseeing spot ever since. There’s no excuse to stop by for a visit, as it’s within close proximity of the Pantheon and Trevi Fountain. The square is filled with artists and street vendors trying to win you over for some spare change. The notable elements of the square include the Fontana del Moro and Fountain of Neptune with their fantastic sculptures, the Palazzo Braschi, the Palazzo Pamphilj and Saint Agnese in Agone Church.
Things to do in Rome – Eat pizza and gelato, but where?
9. Giolotti
It’s no secret that there isn’t a shortage of amazing gelaterias in Rome. But if you want to enjoy traditional gelato that is loved by the locals you must visit Giolotti. Located not far from the Pantheon and is known for being the best old school gelateria in Rome as it’s been around since the 1900s. There are dozens of flavors and it’s less expensive when you get it to go! So enjoy your gelato and sightseeing in Rome simultaneously.
10. Forno Campo de’ Fiori
This bakery is situated right on Campo de Fiori and has been baking Rome’s ‘other’ pizza (extra-long pizza with a thicker oily base) and is sold piping hot by the slice for next to nothing since 1819!
While we only have 10 things on our list, you will never be stuck for something to see or eat in this amazing city. Rome is a very easy destination to get to by train, check out our predesigned packages or put in a custom request to add Rome to your ultimate European adventure!
Here at EurailingPackages, we offer Italy vacation packages, check them out below: