Must-Sees in Rome – 20 Major Sites

Rome, the city where every building, every fountain, every ruin has an epic story to tell, welcomes you with open arms. But where to start? We're here to guide you, step by step, through this historical labyrinth, where art, culture and gastronomy vie for your devotion. We present you with the 20 must-see sites in Rome. And for clarity, we have classified them by theme.

With our tips, your Roman escapade promises to be as smooth as the Tiber that flows through this eternal city. Put on your walking shoes, charge your camera and smartphone, and prepare to be transported to another world – that of the grandiose Rome!

Antiquity and Imposing Ruins

Colosseum

Imagine yourself where gladiators battled in front of 50,000 spectators. Feel history vibrate beneath your feet. Don't waste your time in queues, book your skip-the-line ticket here for the Colosseum in Rome.

Learn all about the Colosseum in Rome.

Colosseum of Rome *(Credit: Frédéric Prochasson – stock.adobe.com).*

Roman Forum & Palatine Hill

This is the soul of ancient Rome. Walk the cobblestones where Caesar walked, and climb Palatine Hill where the legend of Romulus and Remus came to life. For a perfect combo, use a combined pass with the Colosseum.

Learn all about the Roman Forum and the Palatine Hill.

Roman Forum of Rome Colosseum of Rome *(Credit:* Yasonya – stock.adobe.com).

Baths of Caracalla

These ancient public baths are a grandiose testament to Roman daily life. To truly appreciate them, opt for a book your guided tour of the Baths of Caracalla now.

Learn all about the Baths of Caracalla.

Baths of Caracalla in Rome *(Credit:* leventina – stock.adobe.com).

Pantheon

With its revolutionary dome and its oculus that opens a window to the Roman sky, it is a marvel that celebrates Roman genius. To enter this masterpiece of ancient architecture, buy your tickets online to the Pantheon and be prepared to be amazed by its history and exceptional preservation.

Learn all about the Pantheon.

Interior of the Pantheon in Rome *(Credit:* DPM75 – stock.adobe.com).

Faith and Splendor

St. Peter's Basilica & Sistine Chapel

The beating heart of the Vatican, the dome of the Basilica designed by Michelangelo is breathtaking. Entry is free (but not access to the dome). We advise you to take a guided tour of the Basilica. It will allow you to discover in depth the hidden treasures and the fascinating history of these iconic places. The Sistine Chapel, with its fresco of the Last Judgment, is included in the tour of the Vatican Museums. Book your visit now for St. Peter's Basilica and the Vatican Museums to avoid the crowds and have time for contemplation.

Learn all about St. Peter's Basilica in Rome and the Sistine Chapel.

Interior of St. Peter's Basilica in Rome *(Credit: Stripped Pixel – stock.adobe.com).*

Basilica of St. Mary Major

A treasure trove of Byzantine art and sacred relics, with its golden mosaics and painted ceiling. You can find here a selection of possible guided tours for the Basilica of St. Mary Major in Rome.

Learn all about the Basilica of St. Mary Major in Rome.

Interior of the Basilica of St. Mary Major in Rome *(Credit: Dieter Meyer – stock.adobe.com).*

Basilica of St. Paul Outside the Walls

A little further from the center, this basilica is famous for its colossal portico and fascinating mosaics. Less crowded, it is a haven of spiritual peace.

Learn all about the Basilica of St. Paul Outside the Walls.

Basilica of St. Paul Outside the Walls in Rome *(Credit: dbrnjhrj – stock.adobe.com).*

Italian Art and Culture

Vatican Museums

Prepare to embark on a visual epic within the Vatican Museums, a stunning collection where each work of art is a hymn to beauty and spirituality. Book your online tour of the Vatican Museums to ensure a stress-free immersion.

Learn all about the Vatican Museums.

Vatican Museums *(Credit: Editorial_Use_Only – Takashi Images – stock.adobe.com).*

Borghese Gallery

Nestled in the park of the Villa Borghese, this gallery is a showcase for Bernini's sculptures and Caravaggio's paintings. Places are limited, you really need to book your visit in advance for the Borghese Gallery, before leaving for Rome.

Learn all about the Borghese Gallery.

Interior of the Borghese Gallery – Rome *(Credit:* Ellis – stock.adobe.com).

Capitoline Museums (called "of the Capitol")

On the famous Capitoline Hill, these museums house collections of art and artifacts that depict the richness of Rome throughout the ages. Buy your ticket now for a dive into history.

Learn all about the Capitoline Museums.

Interior of the Capitoline Museums *(Credit:* Iván Moreno – stock.adobe.com).

Legendary Squares and Fountains

Trevi Fountain

The superstar of fountains, sculpted with breathtaking attention to detail. Legend has it that if you make a wish by tossing a coin over your shoulder, with your back to the fountain, it will come true. Make a wish to come back to Rome someday!

Everything you need to know about the Trevi Fountain.

The Trevi Fountain – Rome *(Credit:* horseman82 – stock.adobe.com).

Piazza Navona

With its Baroque fountains and market atmosphere, it's a square where art and local life intertwine.

Everything you need to know about Piazza Navona.

Fountain of the Four Rivers in Piazza Navona – Rome *(Credit:* Kavalenkava – stock.adobe.com).

Spanish Steps (Piazza di Spagna)

Climb the famous steps and enjoy a magnificent view of the city rooftops. In spring, the flower-adorned steps are a sight to behold.

Everything you need to know about the Spanish Steps.

Piazza di Spagna – Rome *(Credit:* Paolo Savegnago – stock.adobe.com).

People's Square (Piazza del Popolo)

Between the twin churches and the imposing Egyptian obelisk, People's Square is a true open-air history book. Be impressed by the grandeur of these historical monuments and the architectural harmony that surrounds them.

Everything you need to know about the People's Square in Rome.

Piazza del Popolo – Rome *(Credit:* Vladimir Sazonov – stock.adobe.com).

Panoramas and Historical Memories

Castel Sant'Angelo

Once an imperial mausoleum, this fortress offers a fascinating history and a panoramic view of Rome. Use this link to book your Castel Sant'Angelo entry tickets now.

Everything you need to know about Castel Sant'Angelo.

Castel Sant'Angelo – Rome *(Credit:* Daniel Dörfler – stock.adobe.com).

Monument to Victor Emmanuel II (Altare della Patria)

This grandiose monument offers one of the best panoramic views of Rome. Climb to the top for a memorable selfie.

Everything you need to know about the Monument to Victor Emmanuel II.

Altare della Patria – Rome *(Credit:* Leonid Andronov – stock.adobe.com).

Markets and Local Life

Campo de' Fiori

It is the most lively market in Rome during the day, and a nightlife hub in the evening. Taste local produce and soak up the authentic Roman atmosphere.

Everything you need to know about the Campo de' Fiori in Rome.

Campo de Fiori – Rome *(Credit:* HeinzWaldukat – stock.adobe.com).

Escape and Nature

Villa d'Este and Villa Adriana in Tivoli

These two sites, about 45 minutes by car from Rome, offer sumptuous gardens, magical fountains and ruins that tell centuries of history. It is the perfect getaway for a day out of the capital. Book an excursion to Tivoli from Rome to discover these wonders.

Everything you need to know about Villa d'Este and Villa Adriana in Tivoli.

Villa d'Este – Tivoli *(Credit:* Enrico – stock.adobe.com).

Rome is a city where every stone has a story to tell. Take your time to get lost in its alleys, enjoy a Gelato on a sunny piazza, and above all, live the dolce vita. Remember to buy tickets online to avoid queues and fully enjoy every magical moment.

Now that you know the 20 Must-See Sites in Rome, also discover our Recommended itineraries in Rome to help you plan your stay.

After reading this comprehensive guide to the wonders of Rome, what attraction or experience appeals to you the most? Do you have any personal tips or unique stories related to your trip to Rome that you'd like to share? Leave a comment below and let's share our Roman adventures and tips together! Thank you.