15+ top tourist attractions & best places to visit in Rome

Where should you spend your time visiting the city that bears the mark of the ancient Roman Empire? Discover top tourist attractions in Rome with 15+ best places to visit in Rome and must visit places in Rome in this article below!

There are some cities that captivate people at first sight, and Rome is definitely one of them. This city has existed for 2,667 years, preserving the mark of the glorious Roman Empire, the sophisticated Renaissance period and the fascinating modern lifestyle. Every street corner is like a vivid page of history, from the majestic Colosseum to the Trevi Fountain sparkling under the night lights.

To make your trip more complete, let’s find out the most memorable Rome tourist destinations and activities in this eternal city.

Colosseum – The Great Symbol of the Roman Empire

In the heart of magnificent Rome, the Colosseum stands tall as a living testament to the glorious history of the Roman Empire. Construction began in 72 AD under the reign of Emperor Vespasian and was completed after eight years, with a capacity of up to 65,000 people. On its opening day, Emperor Titus held a 100-day banquet with dramatic fights between gladiators and wild animals.

Passing through the 80 arches leading to the grandstand, you will clearly feel the massive scale of the structure with a total circumference of 527 meters and a height of nearly 50 meters. The seats are arranged in order, from the emperor’s seats to the area for the common people. Underneath the arena is a system of underground tunnels with secret passages and lifting mechanisms, serving surprising performances. Despite suffering many losses over time, the Colosseum still retains its majesty, a symbol not to be missed when visiting Rome.

• Address: Piazza del Colosseo, 1, 00184 Roma RM, Italy
• Opening hours: 8:30 – 16:30

Trevi Fountain – Where to Throw Coins for Good Luck

In Rome, the Trevi Fountain attracts the eye with its magnificent beauty, where the water flows beside the exquisite sculptures. This work was started in 1732 and completed in 1762 in the Baroque style, attached to the back of the Palazzo Poli palace. The center of the fountain is a statue of the sea god Neptune standing on a shell chariot, pulled by two horses, symbolizing the changes of the ocean.

One of the most interesting experiences when visiting here is tossing coins into the clear lake. Just stand with your back turned, use your right hand to throw a coin over your left shoulder, and you will send a promise to return to Rome. If you want to find love in this city, try throwing two coins. Every week, the money collected from the fountain is donated to charity, making this custom both romantic and meaningful.

• Address: Piazza di Trevi, 00187 Roma RM, Italy
• Opening hours: 24/7

Vatican City – The Center of the Catholic World

Although it only covers an area of ​​0.44 square kilometers, Vatican City is the seat of the Pope and is also an attractive destination with historical architectural works. The first stop is often St. Peter’s Square, which is always bustling with tourists and pilgrims. Right in front of the square is St. Peter’s Basilica – one of the largest churches in the world. Step inside, you will be overwhelmed by the beauty of the giant dome, and the magical light through the colored windows.

The Vatican Museum is definitely a destination not to be missed. Thousands of precious works of art are displayed here, especially the Sistine Chapel with beautiful frescoes by Michelangelo. For a complete experience, you should book tickets in advance to avoid having to wait in line for too long.

• Address: Located in the heart of Rome, Italy
• Opening hours: 24/7

St. Peter’s Basilica – The Vatican’s Symbolic Architectural Masterpiece

When you arrive at the Vatican, you definitely cannot miss St. Peter’s Basilica – a great work associated with the history of Christianity. To avoid long lines, you should arrive early, ideally before 7:00.

Inside the church, the massive architecture and works of art such as Michelangelo’s Pietà statue will overwhelm you. If you want to explore a different perspective, climb to the top of the dome to admire the panoramic view of the Vatican. The elevator ticket is 7 euros, but if you want to try the 551-step staircase, you only need to pay 5 euros.

Underneath the church is the Vatican Grottoes – the resting place of many popes. If you want to learn more, you will visit the Scavi area – where St. Peter’s tomb is believed to be located. Due to the limited number of tickets each day, you should book at least two months in advance. In addition, if you are at the Vatican on Wednesday, you will have the opportunity to attend the papal audience and receive the blessing right in St. Peter’s Square.

• Address: Piazza San Pietro, 00120 Città del Vaticano, Vatican City
• Opening hours: 7:00 – 19:10

Vatican Museums – The World’s Best Art Repository

As one of the largest museums in the world, the Vatican not only displays works of art but also tells a story of history. The museum system includes 26 exhibition areas, from Egyptian antiquities, Roman sculptures, to Renaissance masterpieces. Among them, the Sistine Chapel is a highlight not to be missed, where visitors can admire Michelangelo’s legendary ceiling painting.

If time is limited, you should visit Stanza della Segnatura, which was once the library of Pope Julius II, or Stanze di Raffaello, a series of rooms decorated by Raphael, showing the fields of theology, philosophy, poetry and law. The Laocoön group also impresses with a group of sculptures depicting the tragedy of the priest of Troy. In addition, La Galleria della Carte Geografiche attracts with a huge collection of wall maps from the 16th century.

• Address: Inside the Basilica of St. Peter
• Opening hours: 8:00 – 19:00. Closed on Friday and Saturday at 20:00. Closed on Sunday

Pantheon – Ancient Roman Architecture

The Pantheon is one of the masterpieces of ancient Roman architecture that remains intact today. This work was started by Marcus Agrippa in 27 BC and then rebuilt by Emperor Hadrian in the 2nd century. Through many events, the Pantheon still retains its majesty, attracting visitors from all over the world.

Right from the entrance, the towering stone columns give visitors a sense of grandeur and antiquity. When stepping inside, you will be captivated by the giant dome with a diameter of 44.4 meters – the number that matches the height from the floor to the top of the dome. The most special feature is the oculus, the circular space in the center of the dome, where natural light passes through, brightening the space inside at different times of the day.

• Address: Piazza della Rotonda, 00186 Roma RM, Italy
• Opening hours: 9:00 – 18:30

Piazza Navona Square – Art and Culture Space

Located in the heart of Rome, Piazza Navona is about 300 meters from the Pantheon and is a must-see attraction. This area used to be the stadium of Emperor Domitian in 86, where sports competitions took place with a capacity of up to 20,000 people. Today, Piazza Navona is always bustling with cafes, street performers and colorful markets.

The highlight here is the La Fontana dei Quattro Fiumi fountain, Bernini’s masterpiece with four statues symbolizing the four major rivers of the world. In addition, two smaller fountains, Fontana del Moro and Fontana del Nettuno, also contribute to the attractive beauty of the square.

If you love history, you should visit the ruins of the Domitian stadium located just below ground. If you visit during Christmas, you will be immersed in one of the most beautiful Christmas markets in Rome.

• Address: Piazza Navona, 00186 Roma RM, Italy
• Opening hours: 24/7

Spanish Steps – Famous Check-In Spot in Rome

Whether you love art, architecture or want to check in “super cute”, Spanish Steps will meet all your requirements. This structure was built in 1723, connecting Piazza di Spagna square with the Trinità dei Monti church above. There are a total of 135 steps with three floors, symbolizing the Trinity in Christianity.

From the top of the steps, visitors can enjoy a panoramic view of the city. Right below, the Fontana della Barcaccia fountain with the shape of a stranded boat creates an interesting highlight. The area around the Spanish Steps is also a shopping paradise with luxury stores on Via Condotti. In April, the Spanish Steps become brilliant with azalea flowers, and on December 8, this is the place where the traditional ceremony of the Pope coming to lay a wreath at the statue of the Virgin Mary at the foot of the steps takes place.

• Address: Piazza di Spagna, 00187 Roma RM, Italy
• Opening hours: 24/7

Campo De’ Fiori Market – Food and Shopping Experience

Campo De’ Fiori brings two contrasting shades of the day. Early in the morning, the market is bustling with all kinds of fresh flowers, vegetables, fruits and souvenirs. The morning air here is full of vitality, very suitable for starting the journey to explore Rome. If you want to sip a real espresso, the coffee shops near the market are always ready to serve.

When the sun goes down, Campo De’ Fiori turns into a vibrant gathering place. Restaurants open their space to the square, bars light up, music is bustling everywhere. This is an ideal choice for a relaxing dinner or a fun evening with friends. If you love bustling spaces, this place will definitely leave many unforgettable impressions.

• Address: Campo de’ Fiori, 00186 Roma RM, Italy
• Opening hours: 24/7

Appian Way – The Oldest Road of Rome

Built in 312 BC, the Appian Way has witnessed many important historical events, from the march of the Roman legions to the execution of Spartacus. Today, the best preserved section is located in the Parco dell’Appia Antica, about 3 km from the Colosseum. If you depart from the city center, bus number 118 will take you here conveniently.

Walking on the Appian Way is like traveling back in time. On both sides of the road are ancient stones, time-worn relics such as the tomb of Caecilia Metella. If you want to learn more about history, a local guide will help you discover interesting details hidden in each stone. For a comfortable experience, choose sneakers and bring water.

• Address: Roman Forum, Rome to Brindisi
• Opening hours: 24/7

Sant’Angelo Castle – The Vatican’s Protective Citadel

Different from the ancient and quiet appearance of the Appian Way, Sant’Angelo Castle has a proud and majestic beauty. Initially, in the 2nd century, this building was built as a mausoleum by order of Emperor Hadrian. But through many ups and downs, from a mausoleum, it became a fortress to protect the Vatican, then a prison, a place of execution… To this day, Sant’Angelo Castle has become a historical museum, with 6 floors, 58 rooms displaying weapons, ceramics, paintings…

In particular, don’t miss the top floor with the famous bronze statue of the angel Michael, created by Peter Anton von Verschaffelt in 1753. From here, you can enjoy a panoramic view of beautiful Rome. And don’t forget to walk across the Ponte Sant’Angelo bridge, with its beautiful angel statues, the work of Bernini’s students, to end your exploration of this castle!

• Address: Lungotevere Castello, 50, 00193 Roma RM, Italy
• Opening hours: 9:00 – 19:30. Closed on Mondays

Roman Forum – The Old Economic, Political Center of Ancient Rome

Once the political, social and religious center of ancient Rome, the Roman Forum is today one of the most impressive archaeological sites in the world. Located between the Colosseum and the Palatine Hill, this area preserves the ruins of great structures such as the Temple of Saturn, which once served as the national treasury, or the Arch of Titus, symbolizing the victory of the Romans.

Walking along the Via Sacra, the main street of ancient Rome, you will feel the breath of history in every stone. This is also the place where many important events took place such as the funeral of Julius Caesar or the eloquent speeches of Cicero. One of the most beautiful viewing points of the Roman Forum is from the Palatine Hill or the Capitoline Hill. From here, the whole area appears with majestic beauty.

• Address: 00186 Rome, Metropolitan City of Rome Capital, Italy
• Opening hours: 9:00 – 16:30

Maxxi Museum – Creative Contemporary Art Space in Rome

After exploring the ancient beauty of the Roman Forum, come to MAXXI – Italy’s national museum of contemporary art, architecture and design. Designed by famous architect Zaha Hadid, MAXXI is a space to display works of art and architecture from the 20th and 21st centuries. The museum’s collection includes more than 400 works from leading artists such as Alighiero Boetti, William Kentridge and Gerhard Richter.

In addition to paintings and sculptures, the museum also exhibits photography, installations and creative multimedia works. In addition to being a place to admire art, MAXXI also organizes many events, workshops and exhibitions to connect the creative community.

• Address: Via Guido Reni, 4a, 00196 Roma RM, Italy
• Opening hours: 11:00 – 19:00. Closed on Mondays

Catacombs – Back in History in Rome

Underneath Rome lies a mysterious world – the Catacombs. This is the resting place of hundreds of thousands of people, including many saints and popes. Catacombs Domitilla impresses with its large underground church and ancient frescoes. San Callisto is the largest catacomb, featuring early Christian symbols and papal tombs.

Saint Sebastian traces the life of the saint of the same name, who miraculously survived his execution. Priscilla, known as the “Queen of the Catacombs,” is the resting place of many martyrs. Exploring the catacombs will not only take you into a sacred space but also give you a glimpse into the history of early Christianity. To get there, take a taxi or public transportation from central Rome.

• Address: Via Appia Antica, 110/126, 00179 Roma RM, Italy
• Opening hours: 9:30-12:00 and 14:00-17:00. Closed on Wednesdays

Borghese Gallery – A Treasure Trove of Italian Art (#best places to visit in Rome)

Located in the lush grounds of Villa Borghese, the Borghese Gallery is one of Rome’s leading art museums. Derived from the personal collection of Cardinal Scipione Borghese, it showcases outstanding masterpieces of painting and sculpture from the Baroque period. Works by Bernini, such as “Apollo and Daphne” or “Sleeping Hermaphrodite,” leave visitors in awe of the vibrancy and sophistication of each line.

In addition, paintings by Caravaggio, Raphael and Titian contribute to the gallery’s appeal, turning each gallery into a journey through time. With a small scale but sophisticated layout, this place offers a complete art viewing experience without being overloaded.

• Address: Piazzale Scipione Borghese, 5, 00197 Roma RM, Italy
• Opening hours: 9:00 – 19:00. Closed on Mondays

Frequently Asked Questions About Rome

When is the best time to visit Rome?

Spring (April – June) and autumn (September – October) are ideal times due to the pleasant weather and low tourist numbers.

What are Rome’s culinary highlights?

Special dishes include pizza, pasta, gelato (Italian ice cream) and espresso.

What is the public transportation system like in Rome?

Rome has buses, metro and trams. It is advisable to buy a daily or weekly ticket to save money.

Should you rent a motorbike or bicycle when visiting Rome?

Yes, it is a flexible way to explore Rome, especially the backstreets and off-center locations

Where to shop in Rome?

Via del Corso is home to many big brands, often with great discounts.

More than just a tourist city, Rome is a place that has preserved culture, history and art for centuries. Rome always has a way of making visitors linger, whether it is watching the sunset on the Spanish Steps or being overwhelmed by the many artistic masterpieces in the Vatican. Take time to stroll through the ancient cobblestone streets, enjoy a cool gelato and enjoy the romantic atmosphere of the “eternal city”.

Some best day tours, trips, activities and transfer services, tickets in and from Rome you can refer to

• Private Fiumicino Airport (FCO) Transfers for Downtown Rome
• Shared Fiumicino Airport Transfers (FCO) for Rome by Terravision
• Colosseum, Roman Forum and Palatine Hill Tour
• [Buy 1 Get 1] Rome Big Bus Hop-On Hop-Off Tours (Open-Top)
• Rome to Florence Day Tour
• Colosseum, Roman Forum and Palatine Hill Skip-the-Line Entrance Ticket in Rome
• 1 Roma Pass for 45+ Attractions
• OMNIA Vatican and Rome Card
• Vatican & Rome Combo Sightseeing Tour
• Venice Excursion Day Trip
• Day Trip to the Ruins of Pompeii
• Positano and Amalfi Coast Day Tour
• I Love Rome Hop On Hop Off Panoramic Bus Tour
• Rome Hop-On Hop-Off City Sightseeing Bus Tour
• Pompeii, Amalfi Coast and Sorrento Peninsula Tour from Rome
• Pantheon Ticket in Rome
• Colosseum, Roman Forum and Palatine Hill Experience
• Vatican Museums Tour with St. Peter’s Basilica Access
• Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel Ticket in Rome
• eSIM Europe with high-speed and stable Internet connection

Are you looking for more Italy travel guide: Tours, activities, attractions and other things? Let’s check it out here. And top things to do in Rome here.