Rome earned the nickname "the Eternal City" for good reason: few places concentrate so much history, art and gastronomy into a single metropolis. Ancient ruins, Renaissance palaces and modern Italian flair mingle at every turn. Whether it's your first visit or you're a returning guest, these are the places you simply have to see once in your life.
1. Colosseum
The world's most famous amphitheatre has stood in the heart of the city for nearly 2,000 years. Inaugurated in AD 80, the arena could hold 50,000 spectators and was the setting for gladiator fights and animal contests. The combined ticket is also valid for the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill, be sure to buy it online in advance. You can reach the arena floor and the underground level on a separate tour, which makes the experience even more special.
2. Vatican: St Peter's Basilica and the Sistine Chapel
The world's smallest independent state is also the centre of Christianity. From the dome of St Peter's Basilica (551 steps!) you get a breathtaking panorama of Rome, while Michelangelo's ceiling frescoes await in the Sistine Chapel. The Vatican Museums' collection is enormous, count on at least 3–4 hours. Friday and Saturday mornings have the smallest crowds; dress code: covered shoulders and knees.
3. Trevi Fountain
Rome's most spectacular Baroque fountain was completed in 1762 to the designs of Nicola Salvi. According to tradition, whoever turns their back and tosses in a coin is sure to return to Rome, around €3,000 in coins land in the basin every day. It's best to come early in the morning or late in the evening, as the crowds make it almost inaccessible during the day. Excellent gelato shops line the surrounding streets, try the pistachio flavour.
4. Pantheon
The best-preserved building of ancient Rome, whose 43-metre dome remains the largest unreinforced concrete dome in the world. Light streams in through the 9-metre opening (oculus) at the top, and so does rain during a downpour. Today the building is the church of Santa Maria ad Martyres; entry is free, but a timed booking is required. The tombs of Raphael and King Victor Emmanuel II are also here.
5. Roman Forum
This was the political, religious and commercial centre of ancient Rome, and today it's a fascinating field of ruins next to the Colosseum. The Temple of Vesta, the Arch of Septimius Severus and the Curia Iulia can all be seen here. There's barely any shade under the blazing sun, so bring a hat and water. From Palatine Hill you get a fantastic view over the whole Forum and the Circus Maximus.
6. Spanish Steps
Completed in 1725, this monumental flight of 135 steps connects Piazza di Spagna with the Trinità dei Monti church. The area is Rome's luxury shopping district: Via Condotti, Via Frattina and Via Borgognona. Sitting on the steps has been banned since 2019 (fines apply!), but taking photos and strolling is of course allowed. At the bottom of the square, the Barcaccia fountain is the work of Bernini's father.
7. Trastevere district
Rome's most charming neighbourhood, with its narrow cobbled streets, ivy-clad houses and authentic trattorias. It truly comes alive in the evening: the restaurants, wine bars and street musicians create a magical atmosphere. The golden mosaics of the Basilica of Santa Maria in Trastevere are a must-see. From here it's worth crossing the Tiber and walking up the Gianicolo hill for the panorama.
8. Villa Borghese
Rome's largest and most beautiful public park, where locals run, picnic and row on the little lake. At the heart of the park, the Galleria Borghese holds sculptures by Bernini and paintings by Caravaggio, groups are admitted every two hours, so advance booking is compulsory. The Pincio Terrace offers one of the best sunset panoramas over Rome. You can also rent bikes and pedal carts in the park.
9. Piazza Navona
Rome's most atmospheric square was built on the site of a former stadium and is adorned with three beautiful fountains, including Bernini's Fountain of the Four Rivers. Street artists, painters and musicians entertain passers-by all year round. In December a Christmas market moves onto the square. The café terraces are pricey, but the setting makes it worthwhile, or better yet, grab a slice of pizza in the nearby streets.
10. Castel Sant'Angelo
Originally built as a mausoleum for Emperor Hadrian, this cylindrical fortress stands on the banks of the Tiber, linked by the beautiful Angel Bridge. Over the centuries it has been a papal fortress, prison and refuge, a secret passage connects it to the Vatican. From the top there's a 360-degree panorama of Rome, and the bronze angel statue is especially striking at sunset. The museum also displays a collection of weapons and Renaissance paintings.
Practical tips
- Roma Pass: a 48- or 72-hour card that includes free admissions and public transport, worth it if you're visiting 3 or more museums.
- Comfortable shoes are essential: you can easily walk 15–20 km a day on Rome's cobblestones, and sandals will tire your feet quickly.
- Free drinking water: the public fountains known as "nasoni" are everywhere, the tap water flowing from them is perfectly drinkable.
- Restaurant tip: avoid the restaurants right next to the main sights. Walk 2–3 streets away and you'll get twice the quality for half the price.
- Pickpockets: on the metro, at the Colosseum and at the Trevi Fountain, be extra careful with your valuables, use a cross-body bag.