10 Must-Visit Places in Rome to Explore the Beauty of the Eternal City

Built in 80 AD under Emperor Titus, the Colosseum is now the most iconic symbol of Rome. This massive amphitheater could seat around 50,000 to 80,000 spectators and was used for gladiator fights, wild animal hunts, and public games. It was a place where Roman citizens came together for entertainment. Today, you can explore its vast arches, underground passages, and upper levels to get a sense of its grand scale and historic significance. The Colosseum is a remarkable example of Roman engineering and remains one of the most visited sites in the world.

The Pantheon is one of the best-preserved buildings from ancient Rome. It was commissioned by Marcus Agrippa and rebuilt by Emperor Hadrian around 126 AD. Originally a temple dedicated to Roman gods, it later became a Christian church. Its most famous feature is the oculus—a large circular opening in the center of its dome that lets natural light shine in. Inside, you will find beautiful marble floors and the tombs of important Italian figures like painter Raphael and King Victor Emmanuel II. The Pantheon’s perfect symmetry and grand design continue to amaze architects and tourists alike.

The Roman Forum was once the political, religious, and commercial center of ancient Rome. It housed important buildings like the Temple of Saturn, the Arch of Titus, and the Curia (Senate House). You can walk through the ruins and imagine the bustling life that once took place here. Just above it is Palatine Hill, where Rome’s wealthiest citizens lived. According to legend, Romulus founded the city on this very hill. You can visit the remains of imperial palaces and enjoy beautiful views over the Forum and the Circus Maximus.

Completed in 1762, the Trevi Fountain is the largest and most famous Baroque fountain in Rome. It was designed by architect Nicola Salvi and completed by Giuseppe Pannini. The fountain is built against the back of the Palazzo Poli and features the sea god Oceanus standing on a chariot pulled by sea horses. Tradition says if you toss a coin over your left shoulder into the fountain, you are sure to return to Rome. This beautiful site attracts thousands of visitors each day, especially at night when it’s illuminated.

Located in Vatican City, St. Peter’s Basilica is the spiritual center for Catholics around the world. Built between 1506 and 1626, it involved contributions from famous architects and artists like Bramante, Bernini, and Michelangelo. Michelangelo designed the massive dome, which you can climb for a panoramic view of Rome. Inside the basilica, you can see masterpieces such as the Pietà and Bernini’s Baldachin over the main altar. Whether you're religious or not, the beauty and size of the basilica make it an unforgettable stop.

The Vatican Museums are home to one of the most important and vast art collections in the world. Founded in the early 16th century by Pope Julius II, the museum includes thousands of works collected by the popes over centuries. You can explore rooms filled with ancient sculptures, Renaissance paintings, and detailed maps. The highlight is the Sistine Chapel, with its ceiling painted by Michelangelo between 1508 and 1512. His Last Judgment fresco behind the altar is another must-see. A visit here is a deep dive into art, religion, and history.

Piazza Navona is a beautiful and lively square built over the site of the ancient Stadium of Domitian. Its oval shape still follows the layout of the old stadium. In the 17th century, it became a public space filled with Baroque art and architecture. The square features three fountains, the most famous being the Fountain of the Four Rivers by Gian Lorenzo Bernini, which represents four major rivers from different continents. Today, street artists, musicians, and cafes bring constant life to the square, making it a favorite spot to relax and people-watch.

Villa Borghese is a large public park that was once the private estate of the powerful Borghese family. In the 1600s, Cardinal Scipione Borghese, a patron of the arts, developed it as a space for both nature and culture. Today, the park includes gardens, walking paths, bike rentals, a small lake, and even a zoo. The Borghese Gallery inside the park houses famous artworks by Bernini, Caravaggio, and Raphael. Whether you want to admire art or enjoy a peaceful walk, Villa Borghese offers a quiet escape from Rome’s busy streets.

Originally built by Emperor Hadrian in 139 AD as a mausoleum for himself and his family, Castel Sant’Angelo has had many uses throughout history. It became a military fortress, a refuge for popes during attacks, and even a prison. The building is connected to the Vatican by a secret passage called the Passetto di Borgo. Today, it serves as a museum displaying weapons, paintings, and historical documents. Climb to the rooftop for one of the best views of the Tiber River and the city. Its layered history makes it a unique destination.

The Spanish Steps, completed in 1725, were built to link the Trinità dei Monti church with the Spanish Embassy below. Funded by a French diplomat and designed by Francesco de Sanctis, the 135 steps have become one of Rome’s most popular meeting points. In spring, the steps are decorated with colorful flowers. Nearby, you’ll find high-end shops, cozy cafes, and the Keats-Shelley House, where the poet John Keats lived and died. The area around the steps is perfect for shopping, sightseeing, or simply taking a break.