Rome, the Eternal City, is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Europe. As the capital of Italy, it offers a wealth of sights, sounds, and experiences that draw visitors from around the world. Whether you’re visiting for just a few days or a longer stay, there are countless things to see and do in Rome.
From ancient ruins and awe-inspiring architecture to delicious food and lively nightlife, get ready to explore the best attractions Rome has to offer! In this blog post, we will share our top 10 list of things to see and do in Rome so you can make the most out of your visit.
The Colosseum
Of course, the number one spot on our list is the ancient Colosseum. This world-famous landmark is a must-see for first-time visitors to Rome. Built in 70-80 AD, the Colosseum was once used for gladiator battles and public spectacles. Today, it stands as a symbol of Rome’s rich history and culture. Visitors can explore the inside of the Colosseum and learn about its fascinating past.
The Colosseum is surrounded by other famous landmarks, such as the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill. All of these sites are part of the larger archaeological area known as the Archaeological Park of Rome. Visitors can take a guided tour of this park and explore ruins that date back thousands of years. The Colosseum also hosts several events throughout the year, including concerts and theatrical performances. It’s a great place to experience Rome’s vibrant culture and history.
The Vatican
Few places on earth are as steeped in history and tradition as the Vatican. The home of the Catholic Church and the Pope, the Vatican is a must-see for any traveler to Rome. Here are some of the highlights:
The Sistine Chapel: One of the most famous artworks in the world, the Sistine Chapel is a must-see. Visitors can admire Michelangelo’s breathtaking frescoes, including his iconic Creation of Adam. Located in Vatican City, the Sistine Chapel is one of Rome’s top tourist attractions. The chapel is home to some of the world’s most famous works of art, including Michelangelo’s iconic frescoes on the ceiling and Last Judgment. Visitors can explore the chapel on their own or take a guided tour.
The Vatican Museums: Home to some of the world’s greatest art collections, the Vatican Museums are a must for any art lover. Highlights include the Raphael Rooms and the incredible Egyptian collection. Located in the heart of Rome, the Vatican Museums are home to some of the world’s finest works of art. Visitors can explore the galleries, admire sculptures and paintings from different periods, and marvel at the Sistine Chapel. The museums also host special exhibitions throughout the year.
St. Peter’s Basilica: The largest church in Christendom, St. Peter’s Basilica is an awe-inspiring sight. Visitors can marvel at Michelangelo’s Pieta and climb to the top of the dome for sweeping views of Rome.
St. Peter’s Square
As the heart of the Vatican City, St. Peter’s Square is a massive open space that is home to some of the most iconic Catholic architecture in the world. The square is surrounded by a colonnade of 284 columns, and at its center is an Egyptian obelisk that was brought to Rome in the 1st century AD.
The most recognizable building in St. Peter’s Square is St. Peter’s Basilica, which is the largest church in the world.
Construction on the basilica began in 1506, and it wasn’t completed until 1626. The exterior of the church is covered in marble, and inside there are countless works of art, including Michelangelo’s Pietà sculpture.
Next to the basilica is the Vatican Museums, which house some of the most important art collections in the world. The museums are comprised of a series of galleries that contain everything from ancient Egyptian artifacts to Renaissance paintings. Visitors can also see Michaelangelo’s Sistine Chapel ceiling here.
St. Peter’s Square is a must-see for anyone visiting Rome, and it is especially beautiful at night when it is illuminated by spotlights.
St. Peter’s Basilica
There’s no denying that Rome is a city steeped in history. And one of the most popular historical attractions in the city is St. Peter’s Basilica. This world-famous church is the largest in the world and sits on the site of St. Peter’s tomb. Inside, you’ll find Michelangelo’s Pietà and Bernini’s awe-inspiring baldachin over the papal altar. A visit to St. Peter’s Basilica is a must-do when in Rome.
Built in 1626, this stunning basilica features works of art by renowned masters such as Michelangelo and Bernini. Visitors can also explore its many chapels and shrine rooms as they make their way up to the pinnacle of St. Peter’s Dome, providing stunning views of Rome’s cityscape below.
The exterior of the church is equally as impressive and features a large piazza where visitors can take in the beauty of Renaissance-style architecture. The square is also home to an Egyptian obelisk brought to Rome by Caligula in 37 AD.
Adjacent to St. Peter’s Basilica is the Vatican Museums, which house some of the world’s most important art collections. Highlights include Raphael’s Rooms, the Pinacoteca, and an incredible Egyptian collection.
No visit to Rome would be complete without a trip to St. Peter’s Basilica – one of the most important pilgrimage sites for Catholics around the world!
The Pantheon
The Pantheon is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Rome. Built in 125 AD, it is one of the best-preserved Roman buildings and a great example of ancient architecture. It is also the burial site of several notable Italians, including Raphael and Annibale Carracci. Admission is free, and it is open daily from 9:00 am to 7:00 pm.
Inside the Pantheon, visitors are awe-struck by the impressive dome and the intricate details of the building’s design. The oculus – or open eye – at the top of the pantheon is one of its most iconic features. It is said to be a symbol of the sun god Apollo, and it allows natural light to enter the building.
The Pantheon also houses some impressive artworks, including a fresco by Annibale Carracci and sculptures from Bernini and Canova. In addition, visitors can find tombs, including those of two Italian kings and a Renaissance painter.
The Trevi Fountain
The Trevi Fountain is one of Rome’s most iconic landmarks. Situated in the heart of the city, the fountain is a beautiful work of art and an essential stop on any trip to Rome.
One of the most popular things to do at the Trevi Fountain is to throw a coin into the water. Legend has it that if you do this, you will be guaranteed a return trip to Rome. So make sure you have a few coins handy when you visit!
If you want to get up close and personal with the fountain, there is a viewing platform located just behind it. From here, you can get a great view of the fountain and all its intricate details.
The Trevi Fountain, with its rich history and beautiful architecture, is an absolute must-see when visiting Rome. So make sure to add it to your itinerary!
The Spanish Steps
The Spanish Steps are one of the most popular tourist attractions in Rome. They were built in the early 18th century and were designed by Francesco de Sanctis. The steps lead up to the church of Trinita dei Monti, which is a beautiful example of baroque architecture. Visitors can enjoy stunning views of Rome from the top of the steps.
The Spanish Steps are a popular spot for people to come and relax, take in the stunning views of Rome, and enjoy some Italian gelato. The steps are lined with several restaurants, cafes, bars, and shops. They also host many events throughout the year such as live music performances and art exhibitions.
The Roman Forum
The Roman Forum was the center of public life in Rome for centuries. Today, it is a popular tourist destination and one of the most famous archaeological sites in the world.
The Roman Forum was originally a marshy area between the seven hills of Rome. Over time, it became the site of temples, markets, and other public buildings. The most famous structures in the Roman Forum include the Temple of Saturn, the Temple of Vesta, and the Arch of Septimius Severus.
Visitors to the Roman Forum can explore the ruins of these ancient structures and imagine what life was like in Rome during its heyday. The Roman Forum is also home to many museums and art galleries, making it a great place to spend a day or two exploring.
The Catacombs
The Catacombs of Rome are an extensive network of underground burial chambers that date back to the 2nd century AD. From the outside, they look like little more than a series of nondescript holes in the ground. But step inside and you’ll find yourself in a dark and eerie world of narrow passageways and ancient bones.
There are several catacombs in Rome, but the most famous is the Catacombs di San Callisto, which is home to the remains of 16 popes, as well as early Christian martyrs. A visit to the catacombs is a fascinating glimpse into Rome’s past, and a sobering reminder of its mortality.
Piazza Navona
Rome is a city bursting with history and culture, and there is no better place to experience this than at Piazza Navona. This iconic square was once the site of the ancient Roman Stadium of Domitian and today, it is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the city.
Piazza Navona is home to three spectacular fountains, each with its own unique design and story. The first fountain, known as the Fountain of the Rivers, was designed by Gian Lorenzo Bernini in 1651 and depicts four major rivers from different continents.
The second fountain, called the Moor Fountain, was created by Pietro da Cortona in 1653 and features a statue of an African man surrounded by dolphins. The third and final fountain is the Neptune Fountain, which was designed by Giacomo Della Porta in 1574.
In addition to the stunning fountains, Piazza Navona is also home to some of Rome’s best restaurants and cafes. This is the perfect place to enjoy a leisurely meal or coffee while people watching and soaking up the vibrant atmosphere.
Conclusion
Rome is an incredible city filled with a wealth of cultural and historical attractions. From the iconic Colosseum to the magnificent Trevi Fountain, there are countless things to see and do in this beautiful Italian capital. We hope that our top 10 list has given you some inspiration for your next trip to Rome, so you can make the most out of your time and experience all that this amazing city has to offer!