Okay, grab a cappuccino and settle in, because we’re about to go full-on Roman Holiday on you! 🇮🇹
We just got back from an unforgettable trip to Rome, and let me tell you, this city is an absolute treasure trove of history, art, and la dolce vita! We spent five glorious days wandering through ancient ruins, marveling at breathtaking art, and indulging in all the pasta and gelato our hearts desired. (Pro tip: Pack your stretchy pants!)
We actually visited Rome a few days before embarking on a dreamy Mediterranean cruise – talk about the perfect way to kick things off! But let’s be real, Rome deserves a whole vacation on its own. There’s just so much to see and do.
To help you make the most of your Roman adventure, we’ve compiled a list of the top 10 must-see attractions that will leave you saying “Mamma Mia!” We spent weeks pouring over guidebooks, scouring travel blogs, and chatting with fellow globetrotters to curate this ultimate Roman experience. But our biggest score was highly rated guided tours. We LOVED this one on a golf cart! Here’s the Viator link. Ask for Alex. https://www.viator.com/tours/Rome/Rome-by-Golf-Cart-Private-Tour/d511-7377P1?pid=P00207674&mcid=42383&medium=link
But first, a little insider scoop: Rome is gearing up for a massive celebration called the Jubilee in 2025! It’s a special holy year in the Catholic Church, a time for reflection, forgiveness, and spiritual renewal. Think of it as a global Catholic reunion with the Pope as the host! The Jubilee officially commences just before Christmas and concludes on Epiphany the following year. So, if you’re in Rome during that time, expect a truly electric atmosphere.
Alright, enough pre-amble, let’s get this Roman holiday started!
1. Colosseum: Where Gladiators Ruled the World!
This iconic amphitheater is an absolute must-see for any visitor to Rome. Built in 81 A.D., it’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a testament to the ingenuity and engineering prowess of the Romans. It’s hard to fathom the sheer scale and grandeur of this place, where gladiators once fought to the death and wild animals roamed the arena. Another guided tour will help you skip the lines and learn the true history of the gladiators. You will be as shocked as we were! Here’s the link. Ask for Valentina. https://www.viator.com/tours/Rome/Colosseum-Arena-Floor-and-Ancient-Rome-Semi-Private-Max-6-People/d511-6718P19?pid=P00207674&mcid=42383&medium=link
Secret tip: Did you know the Colosseum was originally known as the Flavian Amphitheater, named after the emperors who built it? The name “Colosseum” likely came from the Colossus of Nero, a massive bronze statue that stood nearby. Sadly, only the pedestal remains today. And get this, they used to flood the Colosseum for epic mock sea battles! They’d bring in special flat-bottomed ships and have gladiators reenact famous naval battles. How they managed to pump all that water out afterward remains a mystery!
2. Vatican City: The Smallest Country with the Biggest Treasures
Vatican City might be the tiniest country in the world, but it’s home to some of the most significant religious sites and artistic masterpieces on the planet. From St. Peter’s Basilica with its awe-inspiring dome to the Sistine Chapel with Michelangelo’s breathtaking frescoes, Vatican City is a feast for the eyes and the soul. We must warn you – the museum is HUGE. For the best experience, hire a tour guide like we did to skip the boring stuff and hit the highlights. Here’s the highly rated tour we recommend, again, with Valentina! https://vi.me/3k6XS
Secret tip: The Vatican’s history goes way back – even before Christianity! The name “Vatican” comes from an ancient Etruscan settlement called “Vatica” or “Vaticanus,” meaning “garden.” And believe it or not, before it became a place of pilgrimage, the area where St. Peter’s Square now stands was an ancient Roman chariot racing track!
3. Trevi Fountain: Toss a Coin, Make a Wish!
This Baroque masterpiece is one of Rome’s most iconic landmarks. Legend has it that if you throw a coin into the Trevi Fountain, you’re guaranteed a return trip to Rome. The fountain’s intricate sculptures and cascading water are a sight to behold, especially when illuminated at night.
As of late 2024, don’t be surprised if it looks nothing like the movie scenes or selfies you’ve seen online. Roman authorities built a huge walkway around it and now require tickets and a fee to walk around it. You can no longer get close to the fountain. You used to be able to touch it!
Secret tip: The Trevi Fountain as we see it today was completed in 1762, but its history goes back much further. It marks the terminal point of the Aqua Virgo, an ancient aqueduct built in 19 BC that still supplies water to the fountain! And fun fact: the central figure in the fountain isn’t Neptune, as many people believe, but Oceanus, the god of all water in Roman mythology.
4. Pantheon: An Architectural Marvel That Defies Time
The Pantheon is a former Roman temple that has been remarkably preserved over the centuries. Its massive dome, with its oculus (a circular opening at the top), is an engineering marvel that continues to inspire awe. The Pantheon is now a church, but it retains its ancient grandeur and offers a glimpse into the architectural prowess of the Romans.
Secret tip: The Pantheon’s dome remains the largest unreinforced concrete dome in the world! Even today, engineers are baffled by how the Romans achieved this feat nearly 2000 years ago. And did you know that the Pantheon we see today is actually the third structure on this site? The first two were destroyed by fire and lightning. Buy tickets on the official Pantheon website and skip the huge lines.
5. Roman Forum: Where History Comes to Life
The Roman Forum was the bustling heart of ancient Rome, the center of political, social, and religious life. Today, it’s a sprawling archaeological site where you can wander among the ruins of temples, basilicas, and government buildings, imagining the vibrant life that once filled these spaces.
Secret tip: The Forum was originally a swamp! The Romans drained it using the Cloaca Maxima, one of the world’s first sewage systems, to create this bustling center. And get this, the Romans were a superstitious bunch, and they relied on sacred chickens to predict the outcome of battles!
6. Palatine Hill: Home of Emperors and Legends
Palatine Hill, one of the seven hills of Rome, was once the exclusive domain of emperors and wealthy patricians. It’s a fascinating place to explore, with its layers of history and mythology. You can wander through the ruins of imperial palaces, imagine the lives of the emperors who resided here, and enjoy breathtaking views of the city.
Secret tip: Legend has it that a cave on Palatine Hill is where the she-wolf Lupa raised the twins Romulus and Remus, the founders of Rome. While the exact location of the cave remains a mystery, the legend adds to the hill’s mystique.
7. Spanish Steps: A Stairway to Roman Glamour
The Spanish Steps are a beloved Roman landmark, featured in countless films and photographs. These elegant steps, adorned with flowers in the spring, connect the Piazza di Spagna with the Piazza Trinità dei Monti. It’s a popular spot for people-watching, enjoying a gelato, or simply soaking up the Roman atmosphere.
Secret tip: Despite their name, the Spanish Steps were actually funded by the estate of a French diplomat! They’re named after the Spanish Embassy to the Holy See, located at the base of the steps.
8. Piazza Navona: A Baroque Masterpiece
Piazza Navona is a stunning Baroque square, renowned for its three magnificent fountains: the Fontana dei Quattro Fiumi (Fountain of the Four Rivers) by Bernini, the Fontana del Moro (Moor Fountain), and the Fontana del Nettuno (Fountain of Neptune). The piazza is a lively hub of activity, with street artists, musicians, and vendors adding to its vibrant atmosphere.
Secret tip: The piazza’s distinctive oval shape is a clue to its past. It was built over the Stadium of Domitian, an ancient Roman stadium for athletic competitions. You can even see some of the stadium’s remains beneath the piazza!
9. Castel Sant’Angelo: From Mausoleum to Museum
Castel Sant’Angelo is a massive cylindrical building that has served many purposes throughout its long history. Originally built as a mausoleum for Emperor Hadrian, it was later transformed into a fortress, a papal residence, and even a prison. Today, it’s a fascinating museum where you can explore its history and enjoy panoramic views of the city.
Secret tip: The name “Castel Sant’Angelo” (Castle of the Holy Angel) comes from a legend that the Archangel Michael appeared atop the mausoleum in 590 AD, sheathing his sword to signify the end of a plague. A statue of the angel now stands atop the castle.
10. Trastevere: Where the Roman Spirit Shines
Trastevere is a charming and historic neighborhood across the Tiber River, known for its narrow cobblestone streets, colorful buildings, and authentic Roman atmosphere. It’s a great place to escape the tourist crowds, enjoy a leisurely meal at a traditional trattoria, and experience the true essence of Roman life.
Secret tip: Trastevere, meaning “across the Tiber,” has been inhabited since ancient times. It was once a working-class neighborhood, home to fishermen, artisans, and laborers, and it retains much of its authentic charm today.
Bonus Tip: Skip the Tourist Traps!
We want you to have the best possible experience in Rome, so here are a few overrated attractions you can skip without missing out:
- Bocca della Verità (Mouth of Truth): Putting your hand in this large marble former sewage cover is a fun photo op, but the lines can be long.
- Aventine Keyhole: Peeking through this keyhole on a very clear day offers a framed view of St. Peter’s Basilica, but it’s not worth a major detour.
- Basilica di Sant’Andrea della Valle: Unless you’re really into Baroque architecture or desperate for a TikTik mirror selfie, you can skip this one.
That’s all for now, amici! We hope this detailed guide inspires you to explore the wonders of Rome. Stay tuned for more travel tales and tips from our Mediterranean escapade! 🚢
