Discover the top attractions in Rome with our guide

Rome, the eternal city, is a captivating destination that is steeped in history, culture, and breathtaking architecture. From the world-famous Colosseum to the awe-inspiring Vatican City, there is no shortage of iconic landmarks to explore. Whether you're strolling through the narrow streets of Trastevere or indulging in gelato near the Spanish Steps, Rome never fails to enchant its visitors.

The city's rich heritage can be experienced through its impressive art collections, such as the renowned works in the Galleria Borghese. The Pantheon, with its magnificent dome, is a must-visit architectural marvel. And the list doesn't end here! Make sure you add these must-see place when in Rome for your next trip.

1. St. Peter's Basilica

St. Peter's Basilica is the world's largest basilica of Christianity, and a remarkable example of Renaissance architecture. Primarily designed by by Bramante, Bernini, Michelangelo, and Maderno, this church is a must-see for those visiting Rome. Apart from being a center of religion, St. Peter's Basilica is also home to numerous works of Renaissance art. Some of the most popular works of art in the basilica are Michelangelo’s La Pietà sculpture, Bernini’s Baldachin, and the statue of St. Peter. Its main dome is a stunning piece of architecture, which is a dominant feature in the city's skyline.

2. Trevi Fountain

Designed by Italian architect Nicola Salvi and completed by Pietro Bracci, the Trevi Fountain is the largest Baroque fountain in all of Rome, standing tall at 86 feet. The fountain dates back to Ancient Roman times, and stands at the junction of three roads (tre vie). The fountain is mostly built from travertine stone, which is the same material that was used to build the Colosseum! You can admire the opulence and intricacy of the art on the fountain, and then toss a coin in - it is believed that if you throw a coin into the fountain, you will return to Rome!

3. Colosseum

With over 5 million visitors every year, the Colosseum is one of Italy’s most popular tourist attractions. Believed to have been constructed as a gift from ancient emperors to the Roman people, this grand outdoor amphitheater once served as the epicentre for entertainment in the Roman Empire, hosting various public spectacles and games. A stage for gladiator fights, often including animals, the Colosseum has quite the bloody past. Step back in time, marvel at the stunning architecture, and walk the floor of the greatest arena known to mankind.

4. Pantheon

Explore one of the most beautiful structures in the world - the Pantheon. Built between 25-27 BC during the reign of Augustus as a temple to the early pagan gods of Rome. The Pantheon has withstood the test of time and remains to this day an architectural wonder that is unmatched by any others. Rebuilt during Hadrian’s reign between 118-125 AD, its dome is the world’s largest unreinforced concrete dome today, almost two thousand years after it was built.

5. Roman Forum

The Roman Forum was once the political and social center of Ancient Rome. You an now march down the same paved road once graced by victorious Roman armies and explore the easily discernable remains of the banks, temples, and homes. For decades, the Roman Forum was also the center of day-to-day life in Ancient Rome - it was the site of elections, public speeches, criminal trials, and commercial affairs.

6. Borghese Gallery

The Borghese Gallery is a renowned art museum that houses an impressive collection of sculptures, paintings, and antiques. Originally built as a villa in the early 17th century by Cardinal Scipione Borghese, it later became a museum and opened to the public in 1903. The gallery's collection includes masterpieces by renowned artists such as Caravaggio, Bernini, Raphael, and Titian, among others. The Borghese Gallery is not only revered for its stunning collection, but also for its architectural beauty. The villa itself is a masterpiece, with its intricate frescoes, beautifully landscaped gardens, and grand rooms adorned with exquisite artwork.

7. Vatican Museums

Visited by over 6 million people every year, the Vatican Museums consist of 54 galleries and have one of the largest collections of Renaissance and Medieval art in the world. One of the buildings is the Sistine Chapel, which everyone must visit at least onec in their lifetime. Its walls and ceilings are covered by some of the most opulent frescoes ever produced. The chapel also contains some of the most remarkable pieces of art, such as Michaelangelo's The Creation of Adam and Botticelli's Temptation of Christ.
The museums are home to a number of classical sculptures and paintings by the Renaissance greats such as Raphael, Caravaggio, Michelangelo, and Bernini. Artists such as Vincent van Gogh, Salvador Dalí, and Pablo Picasso are also represented in the Modern Religious Art section. Famous rooms and galleries in the Vatican Museums include Raphael Rooms, the Gallery of Maps, the Sala Rotunda and the Gallery of Statues and the Hall of Busts.

8. Trastevere

Trastevere lies across the river Tiber, and you can get here by crossing the Ponte Siso, a stone footbridge. At the heart of this charming neighbourhood lies the Basilica di Santa Maria, a church from the 12th century, believed to be the oldest church devoted to the Virgin Mary. You can sit by the Piazza di Santa Maria, or even enjoy traditional Roman cuisine by one of the many cafes and restaurants around the area. You can also check out the Villa Farnesina, a grand villa from the Renaissance, which has frescoes by some of the country's greatest artists. Trastevere is also well known for its nightlife. With bars and clubs spread across the neighbourhood, it is the perfect place to end your night on a high note!

9. Basilica di San Clemente al Laterano

Basilica di San Clemente al Laterano (also known as The Basilica of Saint Clement) is a Roman Catholic minor basilica dedicated to Pope Clement I. This fascinating monument is a three-layered church. At the very bottom is a Roman house form the 1st century and a Pagan temple dedicated to Mithras from the 2nd century. Atop this is a 4th century church, and the final, topmost structure is a 12th-century basilica, built at the peak of the Middle Ages. You will also get to see impressive frescoes form the 11th century that show the life of San Clemente, and from the 15th century showing the life of St. Catherine.

10. Villa Borghese

While the Villa Borghese itself refers to the villa which now houses the Borghese Gallery, in a more general sense, the Villa Borghese is also the public park that surrounds the original villa. Opened to the public in 1903, the Villa Borghese is the third largest public park in Rome. The park contains a number of important landmarks such as the Borghese Gallery, Rome Zoo (also called Bioparco), Pincio’s Water Clock, and the Silvano Toti Globe Theatre, which is a replica of London's Shakespeare's Globe Theatre. You can also rent rollerskates and bicycles at the entrance, and enjoy the lush green gardens.