Planning a Trip to Rome?
Here’s Your Ultimate Travel Guide

Now, let’s move to the most exciting part – exploring the city. Most famous landmarks are close to one another. So, a self-guided walking tour will allow you to embrace ancient history and modern culture at your own pace. Let’s start with a guide to some of the most iconic stops on your walking tour of Rome.

One of the most recognisable spots you should visit during your trip to Rome is the Spanish Steps. These 135 steps start from Piazza di Spagna to Trinita dei Monti Church at the top. Architect Francesco de Sanctis designed the steps in the 18th century. Sitting on the steps was once a tourist’s favourite activity. However, recent regulations have prohibited sitting on the steps to preserve the monument. Instead, walk to the top for a panoramic view of the Piazza di Spagna. I suggest visiting these steps early in the morning before the crowds arrive. But this goes almost to all the landmarks as Rome is one of the most visited cities.

Right in front of the steps, you will find Fontana della Barcaccia. It’s a 17th-century fountain designed by the father of Baroque sculptor Gian Lorenzo Bernini. The fountain, shaped like a half-sunken ship, is a tribute to the flooding of the Tiber River.

Just a 10-minute walk from the Spanish Steps will bring you to the Trevi Fountain. It is definitely Rome’s most famous and beautiful fountain. Nicola Salvi designed the fountain in the 18th century. This massive Baroque fountain marks the end of the ancient Aqua Virgo aqueduct, which supplied water to the city. The fountain has a majestic statue of Neptune riding a chariot led by two sea horses. It symbolises the power of the sea.

You may have heard of the tradition of throwing a coin into the fountain. It dates back to ancient times and promises that you will one day return to Rome. Actually, tourists throw around €3,000 in coins into the fountain every day. The city representatives collect them and donate them to charity. I would suggest visiting the fountain early in the morning or late in the evening to avoid the crowds.

If you want to change your pace, head to Galleria Alberto Sordi. It’s a shopping gallery that was built in the early 20th century, and its architecture is Art Nouveau. In the gallery, you can spend some time shopping, get to know Italian fashion brands and bookstores or relax in one of many cafes. Even if you don’t want to shop, the building’s architectural details are worth a visit.

Next, visit the Column of Marcus Aurelius in Piazza Colonna. This towering monument was built in honour of the Roman Emperor Marcus Aurelius to celebrate his military victories in the Marcomannic Wars. If you come close, you will see the carvings spiralling around it, telling the story of the emperor’s marches.

Walk a few minutes from the Column of Marcus Aurelius and see the Temple of Hadrian. It was originally built in 145 AD to honour Emperor Hadrian. Eleven of the original Corinthian columns still stand. This temple is now partially incorporated into a modern building. This gives a blend of the ancient and modern. Today, the building houses Rome’s stock exchange.

One of the lesser-known treasures in Rome is the Chiesa di Sant’Ignazio di Loyola. It’s a stunning Baroque church dating back to the 17th century. The church is famous for its frescoes, which Andrea Pozzo created. When you step inside, your eyes go straight to the masterpiece on the ceiling. It creates the illusion of a grand dome. So, stand on the marble disk marked on the floor directly beneath this “fake dome” and look up. Pozzo’s created perspective can fool anyone into thinking you’re looking at a three-dimensional architectural feature. Many visitors leave unaware that no actual dome exists. Don’t miss the other artistic highlights – explore the richly decorated chapels and the intricate altar.

Next stop – the Pantheon. It’s one of Rome’s most iconic landmarks, standing here for nearly 2,000 years. The Pantheon was originally built as a temple to all the Roman gods. Later, it was converted into a Christian church. It remains the best-preserved ancient Roman building in the city. The massive dome architecture continues to inspire architects around the world.

A circular opening at the top of the dome – the Pantheon’s oculus, allows natural light to fill the interior. Standing inside and watching the light shift throughout the day is an amazing experience. Unfortunately, not many people can dedicate a day to this experience. Don’t forget to explore the tombs of notable figures, including the painter Raphael.

Next on your list is to visit Largo di Torre Argentina, an archaeological site dating back to the Roman Republic. This square is home to the ruins of four ancient temples and part of Pompey’s Theatre, where Julius Caesar was famously assassinated in 44 BC. But most people like to visit this landmark not because of it. Among the ruins live dozens of stray cats. But don’t worry – volunteers are taking care of them.

After enjoying watching cats on your one stop during your trip to Rome, you should visit the Campo de’ Fiori Market. This market has been a gathering place since the 15th century. Here, you can find stalls selling fresh produce, local cheeses, meats, and flowers. Try out some delicious local snacks or have lunch.

Campo de’ Fiori is surrounded by cafes and restaurants where you can sit and enjoy the lively atmosphere. The square transforms into a popular nightlife spot in the evening, with bars and eateries bustling with locals and visitors alike. Have that in mind when wondering what to do in the evening.

One of the most amazing sites is visiting Vatican City, the smallest independent state in the world. It’s home to some of the most significant religious landmarks. Start your visit to St. Peter’s Basilica, one of the top things to see in Vatican City. The Basilica is a stunning example of Renaissance architecture. It features the iconic dome designed by Michelangelo. Inside, you can admire exquisite artworks, including Michelangelo’s Pietà and Bernini’s Baldachin. Don’t forget to climb to the top of the dome and enjoy breathtaking views of the city. It’s one of the most beautiful views in Rome.

Next to the basilica is St. Peter’s Square, designed by Bernini in the 17th century. Here, you can enjoy the impressive colonnades surrounding the square, which features an Egyptian obelisk at its centre. It’s actually one of my favourite spots in all of Rome.

Another highlight in this state is the Vatican Museums, where you can explore collections of art and historical artefacts. Don’t miss the Sistine Chapel, famous for its ceiling painted by Michelangelo, depicting scenes from the Book of Genesis. I would suggest booking your tickets in advance or visiting during off-peak hours to avoid long lines.

Walk 15 minutes from Vatican City to reach Castel Sant’Angelo, a fortress built as a mausoleum for Emperor Hadrian. Over the centuries, it has served various purposes, including a papal residence and a fortress. Inside, you can explore the museum, which showcases artefacts and artwork related to its history. After exploration, move up to the castle rooftop terrace to admire panoramic views of the Tiber River and the city.

You should spend some time strolling along the Tiber River during your trip to Rome. Enjoy the fresh air, beautiful bridges and surrounding scenery.

If you need a break from the city, head to the Villa Borghese Gardens. No, actually, head to the gardens even if you don’t need a break. This park is perfect for a stroll, picnic, bike, or rowboat renting. The gardens are full of beautifully manicured lawns, fountains, and sculptures. Within the park, you can visit the Galleria Borghese, an art museum housed in a stunning villa. It features works by Caravaggio, Raphael, and Bernini.

The gardens also provide breathtaking views of Pincio Hill, where you can enjoy a romantic sunset over the city. They’re free to visit. And if you’re on a tight budget, find 15 free things to see in Rome.

No trip to Rome is complete without a visit to the Colosseum, an iconic symbol of ancient Rome. This massive amphitheatre was built in AD 80 and could hold up to 80,000 spectators. It was the site of gladiatorial contests and public spectacles. Walking through the Colosseum, you can feel its grandeur. You can visit different places in the Colosseum, like the Arena and underground, but they require different tickets. So don’t forget to book your tickets – they are usually bought out 2 weeks in advance.

Next to the Colosseum is the Roman Forum. It used to be a marketplace and the centre of public life. Here, you can see the ruins of important structures, including the Temple of Saturn and the Arch of Titus. Explore the Forum to gain insight into the daily life of ancient Romans.

Nearby, Palatine Hill is one of Rome’s seven hills and offers beautiful views of the Forum and the Circus Maximus. According to legend, it’s the site where Romulus founded the city. Wander through the ruins of imperial palaces and gardens.

The city was built on seven hills: Palatine Hill, Capitoline Hill, Aventine Hill, Caelian Hill, Esquiline Hill, Viminal Hill, and Quirinal Hill. Each hill has its unique history. For instance, Capitoline Hill is home to the Capitoline Museums, where you can explore ancient Roman art. Aventine Hill offers a peaceful atmosphere with beautiful gardens and a city view from the Orange Garden. Explore as many hills as possible during your trip to Rome.

Find all the best highlights and an itinerary if you plan to spend just 1 day in Rome.