Rome – What stunning beauty! The Eternal City on the Tiber, built on seven hills, is one of those places you should definitely see at least once in your life. Rome awaited us with countless historical buildings, beautiful bridges, picturesque alleys, charming restaurants, and plenty of Italian flair. In Rome, we felt like we’d been transported back to times long past.
With so many sights to see in Rome, you could probably spend several weeks here and still not see everything. Since our flight to Johannesburg departed from Rome, we took the opportunity to explore Rome a bit. In today’s article, we’ll tell you which sights and highlights you absolutely shouldn’t miss in Rome. Have fun browsing!
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- Rome Sights & Highlights
- City Tours and Tours
- Accommodation in Rome
- Delicious Food & Drinking in Rome
- Getting around in Rome
- Save money with city passes
Rome Sights & Highlights
In Rome, sights and highlights await you around every corner; it’s hard to know where to look first. We’ve marked some highlights on the map below so you can get a good first impression. There’s so much more to discover, of course, but unfortunately we didn’t have enough time.
Since much of it is within walking distance, you can see an incredible amount in Rome even in one or two days. Our tip: Get a city map of Rome from the tourist information office in the main train station, which will take you to the most beautiful places. You can also store your luggage here for a fee or purchase the Roma Pass, but more on that later.
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1. Colosseum
The Colosseum is clearly one of the top attractions in Rome. It is an ancient testament (72 AD) to Rome’s history and is even today the largest ancient amphitheater in the world. Legendary and gruesome gladiator fights once took place here, but were fortunately abolished by Emperor Constantine in 313.
There were a total of 80 gates through which the almost 50,000 spectators entered the interior. Even then, there were special entrances and viewing areas for privileged guests (comparable to today’s VIP areas). The Colosseum in Rome was in operation for a full 450 years before it gradually fell into disrepair over the following centuries. Today, it is one of the city’s landmarks and can also be visited from the inside.
You can admire the Colosseum from the outside for free and take great photos. If you also want to see the interior, you should get a ticket online in advance so you don’t have to wait in line for too long. When we were there, it was really crowded in front of the Colosseum and we were told that we would have had to wait several hours. Entry on site costs 12 € and also includes entry to the Roman Forum. However, you may end up waiting in line for ages and then get a ticket for the evening.
If you book your ticket online (a little more expensive), you have to choose a specific available “time slot”. Since January 2020, this has been an attempt to better divide and direct the crowds of visitors. Another important thing for you: EVERYONE has to wait at the security check, even if you already have a ticket. Book a ticket: Colosseum, Palatine Hill & Skip-the-line Forum with a guide*.
2. Roman Forum
Even today, many cities still have a central square around which many buildings stand and where life takes place. This was once the case in Rome, too, and this very square was called the Roman Forum, the heart of the Roman Empire. This square is located between the Palatine, Esquiline, and Capitoline hills and is just a stone’s throw from the Colosseum. Where important buildings were once erected, we found “only” ruins and remains from long-gone times, which nevertheless clearly demonstrate how great and powerful Rome once was.
It’s a strange feeling knowing that you’re looking at 3,000 years of history here. If you explore the excavation site, you’ll discover, among other things, several temples, the Basilica of Maxentius, the triumphal arch of Emperor Septimius Severus, and the Arch of Titus. You can purchase your combo ticket here: Colosseum, Palatine Hill & Forum skip-the-line with a guide*.
3. Rome Sights – St. Peter’s Basilica
You can’t miss St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome. We could already see the cathedral’s beautiful dome from across the river and were magically drawn to this breathtaking building. You can enjoy a beautiful view from the Aelius Bridge (Ponte Sant’Angelo), for example. St. Peter’s Basilica in the Vatican (that was its official name) is one of the largest papal basilicas and also one of the most important churches in the world.
This cathedral was under construction for a long time, allowing various architects to immortalize their work here, such as Raphael, Antonio del Sangello, Michelangelo, and Carlo Maderno. Its sheer size is truly impressive. At 136 meters high, the cathedral is the tallest building in Rome. Add to that the huge, circular St. Peter’s Square, the beautiful dome, and its large supporting columns.
We also had to wait in line for quite a long time to get into the cathedral, and unfortunately, we didn’t manage to catch a glimpse of the dome. Admission is generally free, but the line is usually very long. If you don’t want to wait in line, you should get a skip-the-line ticket in advance to avoid the long wait.
You can then reach the observation deck via an elevator or stairs (€8 per person). The view from up there must be gigantic! GetYourGuide has a few cool tours and guided tours that you can book in advance:
- St. Peter’s Basilica: Priority Entrance with Audio Guide*
- Rome: Sistine Chapel and Vatican City Tour*
- Find more tours and guided tours here*
4. Vatican Museum & Sistine Chapel
The Vatican Museum is located very close to St. Peter’s Basilica, just a 10-minute walk to the entrance on Viale Vaticano. The museum is one of the most important museums in the world, and a visit should definitely be part of your itinerary. More than 70,000 objects, ancient sculptures, exquisite art collections, and some of the greatest masterpieces of all time await you here.
The Sistine Chapel with Michelangelo’s breathtaking and famous frescoes, the Raphael Rooms, the magnificent spiral staircase, the frescoed ceilings, and the countless statues are particularly beautiful. I still vividly remember art class in school when Michelangelo was the topic. It was an incredible feeling to be able to see his works up close all these years later. It’s best to book this ticket in advance to avoid the long queues. Click here for tickets*.
5. The Pantheon
The Pantheon is a truly impressive temple from ancient times, whose walls have remained unchanged for almost 2,000 years. When you stand in front of this building, you can easily imagine what Rome once looked like.
The Pantheon is astonishingly large and awaits you with enormous, solid stone columns, a spacious interior filled with statues and decorations, and a dome with a hole (43.3 meters in diameter), which was long considered the largest dome in the world.
When you enter the interior, look at the enormous dome with the hole through which natural light streams in. This was intended to allow a view of the sky and the stars. Kind of romantic, isn’t it?
Since the Pantheon is a church, admission is free. However, it is closed on some Sunday afternoons, but otherwise open Monday through Sunday from 8:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. When we were there, it was absolutely packed. So it’s definitely a good idea to visit early in the morning or later in the afternoon/evening. You can also take a guided tour to learn more about the history and architecture. Tickets are available here*.
6. Rome Sights – Trevi Fountain
During our tour of Rome, we almost accidentally landed at the almost 50-meter-long and 26-meter-high Trevi Fountain (Fontana di Trevi), which is decorated with countless figures. For example, we spotted the sea god Neptune in the center. The fountain became famous primarily through a scene from the film “La Dolce Vita,” when Anita Ekberg and Marcello Mastroianni jumped into the fountain (click here for the film clip).
We were amazed at how much money lay at the bottom of the fountain and learned from our guidebook that more than 1 million euros are thrown into the fountain every year, which is supposedly supposed to appease the gods. Fortunately, the money is used for social projects run by Caritas. We also learned that up to 80 million liters of water flow through the fountain every day. What a lot! Amazing!
7. Spanish Steps
During our research about Rome, we naturally also came across the “Spanish Steps” (Scalinata di Trinita dei Monti). They are one of the top sights in Rome and awaited us with a total of 136 steps. Built in 1725 by Francesco De Sanctis, they connect the Piazza di Spagna with the French church of Santa Trinita dei Monti.
The Piazza di Spagna also features the Fontana della Barcaccia fountain, which is also a popular meeting place for Romans. Nearby, you’ll find many cafés, restaurants, and famous boutiques. But where does the name “Spanish Steps” actually come from? The reason is the Spanish Embassy, which was located on the Piazza di Spagna in the 17th century.
8. Piazza Navona
Now we come to another Rome attraction, namely the impressive and lively Piazza Navona. Originally, the square served as a stadium for athletics tournaments with up to 20,000 spectators. Today, you’ll find three fountains, numerous street artists and portrait artists, cafés, the Church of Sant’Agnese in Agone, and the enormous Palazzo Braschi.
This place is also very touristy and always busy. Warning:If you sit down in one of the cafés, expect to pay exorbitant prices. It’s better to find a restaurant on a side street, away from the square.
9. Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore
The Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore is one of the largest of the approximately 80 Marian churches in Rome. Particularly beautiful and magnificent are the many mosaics inside the church, the marble columns, the golden coffered ceiling, and the 75-meter-high bell tower. The church is open daily from 7 a.m. to 6:45 p.m., and admission is free.
10. Villa Borghese Park
If you want to treat yourself to a break from the hustle and bustle of Rome, you should take a detour to the Villa Borghese. This park is approximately 5 km² in size and is home to, among other things, the famous Galleria Borghese, which is one of the most valuable private art collections in the world, as well as a zoo and a museum. You can get a truly beautiful view of the park from the Pincio Hill.
From there, if the weather is good, you can even see as far as the Vatican and St. Peter’s Basilica. Another great photo opportunity is a small artificial lake with a temple (Laghetto di Villa Borghese) as well as the many beautiful gardens. If you want to see the collection in the Galleria Borghese, you should also book your ticket in advance to avoid the long wait. Book tickets here*.
11. Victor Emmanuel Monument
This huge national monument (80 meters high and 130 meters wide) is located directly on Piazza Venezia, where there is always a lot of traffic. Above all the buses, cars, and mopeds, the monument towers over a 12-meter-high bronze equestrian statue of Vittorio Emanuele II. He is also called the “Father of the Fatherland” because he was the first king of a unified Italy.
You can visit the monument’s museum; the entrance is on the left. Here you can admire weapons, flags, and other historical objects. Admission is free, but the view from the upper viewing platform costs €7 and, according to previous guests, offers a magnificent view of Rome.
12. The Trastevere District
One of the coolest and liveliest districts in the city is Trastevere on the other bank of the Tiber. Here we strolled through narrow, picturesque streets and discovered numerous restaurants, trattorias, and pizzerias. It’s probably especially cool here in the evening when the alleys fill with life.
We particularly liked the many pretty house facades, the loving details, and the very special Italian flair. This district also boasts several other sights, such as the Piazza Santa Maria, the Basilica of Santa Maria, the flea market at Porta Portese, and the beautiful country house Villa Farnesina.
13. Castel Sant’Angelo (Castle of Sant’Angelo)
Just a few meters east of the Vatican, you can discover the imposing fortress on the banks of the Tiber. The walk to Castel Sant’Angelo is stunning, as you cross one of Rome’s most beautiful bridges, the Ponte Sant’Angelo. The fortress (Castel Sant’Angelo) may look a bit boring from the outside, but inside, magnificent rooms, spectacular frescoes, and beautiful murals await you.
From the observation deck, you have a magnificent view over the Tiber and the city’s rooftops. You should also book your ticket in advance for this Rome attraction. In high season, lines can easily last up to three hours. Click here for skip-the-line tickets*.
14. Piazza del Popolo
If you’re taking a trip to Rome, you shouldn’t miss the People’s Square. It’s one of the city’s most famous squares and was built between 1811 and 1822. In the past, visitors and pilgrims were welcomed here through the “Porta del Popolo” gate. Even Martin Luther once passed through this gate.
Here on the piazza stand two twin churches: the 36.5-meter-high obelisk, the small church of Santa Maria del Popolo, and the beginning of the Pincio Hill with its park. Insider tip: You can enjoy a fantastic view of the square and other parts of the city from the Terrazza del Pincio.
15. Palatine Hill
In the south of the city, the Palatine Hill rises above the Roman Forum and is still considered the “cradle of Rome.” According to legend, the city was founded here in the 8th century BC. Numerous ruins and remains from various eras (temples, thermal baths, palaces, and much more) await you on this hill. Your combination ticket* for the Colosseum and the Roman Forum also grants you access to the Palatine Hill. From the hill, you’ll also have a magnificent view of the city.
16. Other Sights in Rome
We didn’t have nearly enough time for this magnificent city and will definitely return. There’s so much more to see in Rome, such as the Capitoline Hill, the Circus Maximus, the Campo de’ Fiori (vegetable market), the MAXXI Museum, the Via Appia with the Catacombs, the Palazzo Doria-Pamphilj, and much more.
Rome also offers some really cool tours, and there are many great shops, cafés, and restaurants waiting for us. We simply love the Italian flair in the city and would love to travel to Rome again during the off-season. Nevertheless, even in this short time, we saw and discovered an incredible amount in Rome. We’d be happy to go again!
City Tours and Guided Tours
If you don’t feel like strolling through Rome on your own, a guided tour might be interesting for you. Countless guided tours on a wide variety of topics are offered in the city. In the following section, we’ve selected a few really cool tours for you that are sure to be a lot of fun. On our next visit, we’d like to take a cooking class and participate in a street art tour.
Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour
Book tickets here*
How about a sightseeing tour by hop-on hop-off bus including an audio tour? Cruise leisurely through Rome and explore the city’s most important sights. You can hop on and off at any of the 8 stops.
City Bike Tour
Book tickets here*
You can also explore the many different corners of the city by bike. A 4-hour tour takes you to all of Rome’s most important sites, and you’ll learn more about the city’s history and highlights.
City Street Food Tour
Book tickets here*
Or would you prefer a guided street food tour? On this trip, you’ll sample authentic delicacies in 5 different restaurants. And, of course, you’ll also discover some of the most beautiful spots in the city center. Alternatively, take a cooking class in the Jewish Ghetto*.
Vespa Tour through the City
Rent a Vespa here*
How cool is that? Cruising through the city on an Italian Vespa and discovering the most beautiful spots? It doesn’t get any better than this! Rent a Vespa and experience Rome in no time.
Walking Tour with a Local
Book a tour here*
Stroll through the city with a local who knows the city inside out. You decide where you want to go and what you want to see. Alternative: Street art tour through Marancia*.
Staying in Rome
Rome awaits you with countless hotels, guesthouses, guest rooms, and Airbnb apartments, making the decision not so easy. We’ve taken a look around for you and selected a few super central and top-rated hotels. During our time in Rome, we stayed a little outside the city in a solid 3-star city hotel, as we found a special bargain on HRS Deals. Unfortunately, we don’t remember the name of the hotel, but it wasn’t a particularly nice hotel either. On our next trip, we would definitely choose a hotel in the city center to save time.
Book a room here*
The Campo de’ Fiori 34* is located right in the city center and just 650 meters from the Pantheon. A bar, free Wi-Fi in all areas, minimalist yet stylish rooms, and a delicious breakfast buffet await you here. Previous guests particularly praise the prime location and the very friendly staff.
Rating: 5 out of 5 points* on Tripadvisor
Book a room here*
The Oasi Urbana 41 is also located right in the center of the Eternal City and awaits you with cozy, tastefully furnished rooms. You won’t have to miss out on a private bathroom in this city hotel either. In the morning, enjoy a continental or à la carte breakfast before you set off on your exploration. Previous guests particularly praise the location, the staff, and the breakfast.
Rating: 9.6 out of 10 points* on Booking.com
Book a room here*
Another chic hotel is located right in the old town, just 200 meters from Piazza Navona. The Relais Orso Hotel* is housed in a beautiful 17th-century townhouse with a rooftop terrace and panoramic views of Rome. Look forward to stylish rooms with oak floors and exposed red brick walls. On the rooftop terrace, you can reflect on the exciting day and relax in the evening. Previous guests particularly praise the chic rooms, the friendly staff, and the view from the roof terrace.
Rating: 4 out of 5 points* on Tripadvisor
Book a room here*
One last hotel we’d like to introduce to you is the Tree Charme Parliament Boutique Hotel*, which is just under 1 km from the Trevi Fountain. This chic hotel offers a restaurant, a bar, truly chic, stylish rooms, and ticket and room service. Previous guests particularly praise the excellent location in the center of Rome, the cleanliness, and the delicious breakfast in the morning.
Rating: 4 out of 5 points* on Tripadvisor
Delicious Food & Drink in Rome
In Rome, you’ll find a restaurant or snack bar on literally every corner. We’re not big food bloggers and just go with the flow until we find something suitable. Sometimes we need to hurry and grab something from the nearest snack bar; sometimes we want to end the day in a relaxed manner and sit down at a restaurant.
If you’re in the mood for some delicious, homemade ice cream, you should definitely go to Grom. You can get delicious Neapolitan pizza at Mercato Centrale, right next to Termini station. And as befits a market hall, you can find all kinds of street food here.
If you’re a coffee junkie like us, we recommend the outdoor café “Tram-Depot, which is located in a converted tram car. Here you can get delicious cappuccino and plenty of birdsong.
Pizza, pasta, and countless vegetarian and vegan options are available at the Rifugio Romano. A really good breakfast is available at Necci dal 1924, located in the trendy suburban district of Pigneto. Later in the evening, this place transforms into a popular hipster hangout.
Getting around Rome
The good thing about Rome is that many sights are easily accessible on foot. If a sight is a bit further away, you can take the bus, tram, or metro (underground). We think it’s really great that public transport in Rome is quite inexpensive.
A one-way ticket (BIT) costs only €1.50, is valid for 75 minutes, and expires only when you get off. You can buy your ticket at newsagents, kiosks, or vending machines at the individual stations.
A day pass (BIG) also costs only €6. More tickets and prices here. If you get a Rome City Pass or similar, you don’t have to pay anything to use public transport.
Note on the airport transfer: We got there super cheaply with the We took the Terravision buses from the airport to the main train station in the city center. The trip only took about 45 minutes and was very inexpensive at €5 (book tickets here). Alternatively, you can also take the Leonardo Express.
This train takes you to the main station in 30 minutes, but at €14, it’s significantly more expensive (book tickets here). If you have luggage that you don’t want or can’t take to your hotel yet, you can leave it at the main station for a fee. This is what we did. Click here to find the provider.
Save Money with City Passes
If you’re spending more time in Rome and plan to visit many of Rome’s sights and highlights, the Roma Pass, the Rome City Pass, the OMNIA Card, the Rome Tourist Card, or the Go Rome Explorer Pass might be of interest to you.
With these passes, you receive numerous discounts, free entry to various attractions, free use of public transport, and many other extras. In the following table, we have listed and linked the possible passes for you.
You can also find some comparison sites on this topic online, where you canYou can read about the similarities and differences between the passes. We think the OMNIA Card is really cool because it gives you discounts on more than 25 museums and historical sites, unlimited use of public transport in Rome, and priority entry to some attractions.
You also enjoy free entry to up to four attractions (Colosseum including the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill, Vatican including the museums and Sistine Chapel, Borghese Gallery, Castel Sant’Angelo, etc.). Unfortunately, the card is currently only valid for 72 hours, which, of course, not every tourist needs. Therefore, the Rome City Pass or the Roma Pass are probably more suitable for shorter stays.
Overview of City Passes
We hope this post has been helpful and inspiring. If you have any further questions about Rome, please let us know. Just leave a comment or send us an email. Rome is a must-see; it’s a fantastic city! We’ll definitely be back!