Rome, the eternal city, is a destination that must be on everyone’s bucket list. It is steeped in history, art, architecture, and culture, and offers something for every type of traveler. Here are some of the best places and things to do in Rome:
1. Colosseum
Image Source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Colosseum
This iconic amphitheater is a must-visit attraction in Rome. It is a testament to the grandeur and engineering skills of the ancient Romans and has been standing for over 2,000 years. Visitors can take a tour of the Colosseum and learn about the gladiators who fought here. Address: The Colosseum is located in the heart of Rome, approximately 2.5 kilometers (1.5 miles) southeast of the city center.
2. Vatican
Image Source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vatican_City
The Vatican is a city-state located within Rome and is the headquarters of the Roman Catholic Church. Visitors can explore the Vatican Museums, which house some of the world’s most famous art collections, including the Sistine Chapel. The Vatican is also home to St. Peter’s Basilica, one of the world’s largest churches and a symbol of the Catholic faith. Address: The Vatican is located in the western part of Rome, approximately 4.5 kilometers (2.8 miles) northwest of the city center.
3. Pantheon
Image Source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pantheon,_Rome
The Pantheon is a Roman temple that has been standing for over 2,000 years. It is a remarkable example of ancient Roman engineering and is one of the best-preserved buildings of its kind in the world. Visitors can enter the temple and marvel at its impressive dome, which was the largest in the world until the 20th century. Address: The Pantheon is located in the historic center of Rome, approximately 500 meters (0.3 miles) east of Piazza Navona.
4. Trevi Fountain
Image Source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Trevi_Fountain
The Trevi Fountain is a Baroque masterpiece located in the heart of Rome. Visitors can toss a coin into the fountain and make a wish. It is said that throwing a coin into the fountain guarantees a return to Rome. Address: The Trevi Fountain is located in the historic center of Rome, approximately 550 meters (0.3 miles) east of the Pantheon.
5. Spanish Steps
Image Source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Spanish_Steps
The Spanish Steps are a set of 135 steps that lead up to the Piazza di Spagna. The steps were built in the 18th century and offer a stunning view of the city from the top. Visitors can also explore the designer boutiques and cafes in the area. Address: The Spanish Steps are located in the historic center of Rome, approximately 500 meters (0.3 miles) northeast of the Trevi Fountain.
6. Roman Forum
Image Source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Roman_Forum
The Roman Forum is a sprawling complex of ruins that was the center of political and social life in ancient Rome. Visitors can take a guided tour of the forum and learn about the history and culture of ancient Rome. Address: The Roman Forum is located in the heart of Rome, approximately 1 kilometer (0.6 miles) southeast of the Colosseum.
7. Trastevere
Image Source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Trastevere
The Trastevere is a charming neighborhood located across the Tiber River. It is known for its narrow streets, lively piazzas, and authentic Italian cuisine. Visitors can explore the neighborhood’s many restaurants, cafes, and shops. Address: The Trastevere is located across the Tiber River from the historic center of Rome, approximately 1.5 kilometers (0.9 miles) southwest of the city center.
8. Gelato
Image Source: https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/is-gelato-vegan
No trip to Rome is complete without trying the gelato. Italian gelato is known for its creamy texture and intense flavors. Some of the best places to try gelato in Rome include Gelateria del Teatro, Giolitti, and Fatamorgana. Address: There are many gelato shops throughout Rome, but some of the best ones include Gelateria del Teatro, which is located in the historic center of Rome, approximately 400 meters (0.2 miles) west of Piazza Navona; Giolitti, which is located in the historic center of Rome, approximately 550 meters (0.3 miles) east of the Pantheon; and Fatamorgana, which has multiple locations throughout Rome.
9. Pizza
Image Source: https://www.backroadstouring.com/blog/uncover-best-pizza-italy
Italy is famous for its pizza, and Rome is no exception. Some of the best pizzerias in Rome include Pizzeria La Montecarlo, Pizzeria Emma, and Pizzeria da Remo. Address: Some of the best pizzerias in Rome include Pizzeria La Montecarlo, which is located in the Trastevere neighborhood, approximately 2 kilometers (1.2 miles) southwest of the city center; Pizzeria Emma, which is located in the historic center of Rome, approximately 500 meters (0.3 miles) east of the Pantheon; and Pizzeria da Remo, which is located in the Testaccio neighborhood, approximately 3 kilometers (1.9 miles) south of the city center.
10. Catacombs
Image Source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Catacombs_of_Rome
The Catacombs are a network of underground tunnels and tombs that date back to the early Christian era. Visitors can take a guided tour of the Catacombs and learn about the history of early Christianity in Rome. Address: There are several catacombs located outside of Rome, but some of the most popular ones include the Catacombs of San Callisto, which are located approximately 6 kilometers (3.7 miles) southeast of the city center; and the Catacombs of Priscilla, which are located approximately 5 kilometers (3.1 miles) north of the city center.
11. Piazza Navona
Image Source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Piazza_Navona
The Piazza Navona is a beautiful Baroque square located in the heart of Rome. It features three magnificent fountains and is surrounded by historic buildings, cafes, and restaurants. The square is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike, especially in the evenings when street performers and artists gather here. Address: The Piazza Navona is located in the historic center of Rome, approximately 500 meters (0.3 miles) east of the Pantheon.
12. Villa Borghese
Image Source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Villa_Borghese_gardens
The Villa Borghese is a sprawling park located in the heart of Rome. It features beautiful gardens, fountains, and sculptures, as well as several museums and art galleries. Visitors can rent a bike or take a leisurely stroll through the park and enjoy the breathtaking views of the city. Address: The Villa Borghese is located in the northern part of Rome, approximately 2 kilometers (1.2 miles) north of the city center.
13. Campo de’ Fiori
Image Source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Campo_de_Fiori
The Campo de’ Fiori is a lively market square located in the heart of Rome. It is known for its colorful stalls selling fresh produce, flowers, and souvenirs. Visitors can also find several restaurants and cafes in the area. Address: The Campo de’ Fiori is located in the historic center of Rome, approximately 750 meters (0.5 miles) east of the Piazza Navona.
14. Museo Nazionale Romano
Image Source: https://it.wikipedia.org/wiki/Museo_Nazionale_Romano
The Museo Nazionale Romano is a museum complex that showcases the art and history of ancient Rome. It features several galleries, including the Palazzo Massimo, which houses some of the world’s most famous ancient Roman sculptures. Address: The Museo Nazionale Romano has several locations throughout Rome, including the Palazzo Massimo, which is located in the historic center of Rome, approximately 1 kilometer (0.6 miles) southeast of the Termini train station.
15. Castel Sant’Angelo
Image Source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Castel_SantAngelo
The Castel Sant’Angelo is a medieval fortress located on the banks of the Tiber River. It was originally built as a mausoleum for Emperor Hadrian and later converted into a fortress. Visitors can take a tour of the castle and enjoy the stunning views of the city from the top. Address: The Castel Sant’Angelo is located on the right bank of the Tiber River in Rome, Italy. The full address is: Lungotevere Castello, 50, 00193 Roma RM, Italy. It is approximately 2.5 kilometers (1.5 miles) northwest of the city center and can be reached by foot or public transportation.
16. Sistine Chapel
Image Source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sistine_Chapel
The Sistine Chapel is located within the Vatican Museums and is home to some of the most famous frescoes in the world, including Michelangelo’s masterpiece, the ceiling of the chapel. The Sistine Chapel is approximately 4.5 kilometers (2.8 miles) northwest of the city center.
17. Capitoline Museums
Image Source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Capitoline_Museums
The Capitoline Museums are a collection of art and archaeology museums located on Capitoline Hill in Rome. They house a vast collection of ancient Roman artifacts, including statues, paintings, and mosaics. The Capitoline Museums are approximately 800 meters (0.5 miles) southeast of the Piazza Navona.
18. Villa Doria Pamphili
Image Source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Villa_Doria_Pamphili
The Villa Doria Pamphili is a large park and villa located in the western part of Rome. It features walking paths, gardens, fountains, and a lake. The Villa Doria Pamphili is approximately 6 kilometers (3.7 miles) west of the city center.
19. Baths of Caracalla
Image Source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Baths_of_Caracalla
The Baths of Caracalla are a set of ancient Roman public baths located in the southern part of Rome. The ruins are a popular tourist attraction and offer a glimpse into the daily life of ancient Romans. The Baths of Caracalla are approximately 3 kilometers (1.9 miles) southeast of the Colosseum.
20. Galleria Borghese
Image Source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Galleria_Borghese
The Galleria Borghese is an art museum located in the Villa Borghese park in Rome. The museum features a collection of paintings, sculptures, and antiquities from the Renaissance and Baroque periods. The Galleria Borghese is approximately 2 kilometers (1.2 miles) north of the city center.
21. Appian Way
Image Source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Appian_Way
The Appian Way is one of the oldest and most famous Roman roads, dating back to the 4th century BC. Today, it is a popular tourist attraction and offers a glimpse into ancient Roman history. The Appian Way is approximately 8 kilometers (5 miles) southeast of the city center.
22. Castelli Romani
Image Source: https://www.italia.it/en/lazio/castelli-romani
The Castelli Romani is a group of small towns located in the Alban Hills southeast of Rome. The area is known for its vineyards, scenic views, and historic villas. The Castelli Romani is approximately 25 kilometers (15.5 miles) southeast of the city center.
Places and Things To Do
