The Roman Forum was the heart and brain of the Roman Empire, the main political and social centre of ancient Rome. It is a rectangular square surrounded by ancient remains like the Temple of Saturn, the Arch of Septimius Severus and the Temple of Vesta.
Buy your tickets online and you can also visit Palatine Hill, offering great views over the ruins. Get directions.
Campo de’ Fiori is one of the busiest squares of the city. Several centuries ago, numerous executions took place here, including the execution of the scientist Giordano Bruno, whose monument rises in the centre.
Despite the gloomy history, every morning there is a famous market here, and in the evenings local restaurants welcome hundreds of visitors. Get directions.
Hidden in alleyways and quiet corners, you will discover gems of artisanship, design and fashion here. Today Monti is an enclave of young artists, the creative centre of the city. A place of worship for lovers of vintage and original creations. Want to know more? Try the small and charming shops like along the Via del Boschetto. Get directions.
St. Peter's Cathedral is not only the heart of the Vatican, but of the entire Catholic world. Outstanding architects created the architectural ensemble: Bramante created the church, Michelangelo constructed the dome and Bernini decorated the square. Climb Michelangelo's dome and get to see all the magnificence of the eternal city.
St. Peter's Basilica is open every day, and entrance is free. Have a look at the official website (It) for more information about the cathedral. Get directions.
The Vatican Museums treasure one of the greatest art collections in the world, collected by the Popes over the centuries. Included is the Sistine Chapel with its world-famous ceiling painted by Michelangelo.
The museums are closed on Sunday, we advise you to buy tickets online. Get directions.
On the very top of the Aventine hill, there is the picturesque Orange Garden, also known as the Savello Garden. The place is beloved for its impressive trees providing a shaded getaway, as well as for its terrace with spectacular views over Rome and the Vatican.
The park closes at night. The entrance can be found on the South side. Get directions.
Sant’Agnese in Agone was designed by Borromini around 1658. The young St Agnes was executed and buried here in 304. According to the legend she was sentenced to be dragged naked through the streets of Rome, when her hair started growing miraculously covering her entire body. Today the main relic of the church is the skull of St Agnes.
The church is closed from 13-15h and on Mondays. Have a look at the official website for more background and visitor information. Get directions.
Vatican Gardens is not just a gorgeous park, but an entire complex of palaces, with flowerbeds and fountains, paths and shaded alleys. It occupies about half of the territory of the state.
Please note that visiting is possible in groups only. See the official website for more info and tickets. Get directions.
The Colosseum is an incredible piece of architecture of 2,000 years old. It is the largest amphitheatre ever built, originally named Anfiteatro Flavio. It hosted not only gladiator fights, but also hunting simulations with exotic animals.
The symbol of the eternal city is open every day, and even at night! Book your tickets online, to avoid queuing. Get directions.
The first thing that strikes Piazza di Spagna is the delightful Spanish staircase from 1722, a beloved meeting place, day and night. The Barcaccia fountain made by father and son Bernini shines down the stairs. On top of the 135 stairs, there's the beautiful Trinità dei Monti church. Get directions.
Il Vittoriano is a memorial dedicated to the first king of united Italy Vittorio Emanuele II, centrally shown on a king-size horse. Though most visitors consider this eclectic structure as a piece of fine Italian design, not all Romans were happy with it, nicknaming it 'plugging jaws', 'wedding cake' or 'typewriter'.
Visit the viewing platform for great views over Rome! Get directions.
The Fontana di Trevi is a true pearl among the hundreds of fountains in Rome. The stunning design came from the hands of Nicola Salvi, in 1762. The fountain served as the stage in movies like Roman Holiday and La Dolce Vita. The legend tells us that throwing a coin into the fountain makes sure you will come back to Rome! Get directions.
Via Margutta is a secluded quiet place where the walls of houses are covered in lush cascades of green plants. Originally a home of artists, today it’s a perfect place to look for art in the numerous galleries. Get directions.
Galleria Borghese treasures an impressive art collection, created from 1607 on by the Borghese family. It is especially known for its outstanding Bernini sculptures and Caravaggio paintings, displayed along masterpieces of Raphael, Rubens and Titian.
The gallery (It) is closed on Mondays. Get directions.
The Santa Maria in Trastevere was founded in 340 on a place where, according to the legend, suddenly a black oily liquid started flowing out of the earth on the day of Jesus Christ's birth. The church is famous for its mosaics on the facade and the interior apse, the front porch and the Romanesque bell tower with mosaics representing Mary with her child. Get directions.
In front of the historic Piazza Colonna stands the beautiful Galleria Alberto Sordi. This elegant shopping arcade with is colorful glass roof is worth a visit, irrespective of your shopping intentions. Inside you will find mostly clothes boutiques. Check out the official website for the full list of stores. Get directions.
Borghetto Flaminio market is located in a former bus station. Fun, colourful, ideal for finding vintage or antique, from vinyl records to fashionable evening dresses.
Please note that a small entrance fee is being charged. Find the market every Sunday from 10h till 19h. Summer closure in August. Get directions.
Trajan’s Column is the highlight of the Forum Traiani, built around the year 113 in honor of the victory of Emperor Trajan over the Dacians. It is fully covered with a spiral relief, depicting episodes of the Dacian Wars. The inscription on the pedestal is considered one of the best examples of the Roman capital font preserved up to our time. Get directions.
The Golden House was built by Nero after the Great Fire of Rome had destroyed a large part of the area in 64 AD. The palace got its name from the walls of the main rooms which were covered with golden leafs.
The site can only be visited on a tour (with virtual reality), see the official website for further details. Get directions.
The Arch of Constantine was erected in 315 AD as a tribute to the victory of Emperor Constantine over Emperor Maxentius. According to the legend, just before the decisive Battle of the Milvian Bridge, Constantine was given a sign in the form of a cross in a dream, so he armed his forces with this Christian symbol and won. His victory was a milestone for Christianity to become the dominant religion in Europe. Get directions.
Pincian Hill is a picturesque English garden that spreads between Piazza del Popolo and Villa Borghese. Up the hill, you will find a terrace that offers a marvelous view over the city, especially around sunset. Get directions.
Palazzo Spada houses Galleria Spada, a small museum with some impressive paintings from the 16th and 17th century, as well as the deceiving Borromini Gallery. Borromini had designed a fake perspective gallery here which may appear to be up to 40 meters long, but has in fact a length of just 8 meters!
The museum is closed on Tuesdays. Get directions.
Via del Corso is a popular shopping area, especially amongst youngsters who enjoy shopping in mass-market stores. Further from Piazza Venezia it gets less crowded and the shopping experience is more comfortable. Get directions.
Sant'Andrea della Valle is a 17th century church with an elegant baroque facade. The dome was built as one of the largest in Rome, impressively decorated with frescoes by Giovanni Lanfranco.
The church is closed from 12:30-16:30h. Get directions.
Villa Ada is a huge city park dating back to the 17th century, planted with species of trees from different parts of the world. Of great interest are the metasequoias, brought from Tibet itself.
Please note that there's no entrances on the West and North sides of the park. Get directions.
Porta Portese is the main flea market of Rome. It is a place where you may encounter anything. From plants to bicycles, and from jewelry to furniture. Most items are second-hand, some antique.
Find the market every Sunday from 6-14h. Get directions.
The Imperial Fora are a series of monumental squares built between 46 BC and 113 AD. They are considered the centre of political life of Ancient Rome. Caesar himself purchased the land for construction. Here you can have the most realistic view of the ancient Rome.
See the official website for visitor info. Open every day! Get directions.
A part of Rome made up of lovely historical streets where you can find a large number of designers and trendy boutiques selling clothes and accesoiries. A must for shopping addicts in Rome! Get directions.
The Pantheon is one of the best-preserved ancient temples, built in 124 AD. Inside you can find tombs of Kings of Italy and Raffaello Sanzio. The impressive dome can be visited free of charge.
The Pantheon is open every day! See the official website for more visitor info. Get directions.
Built in the 17th century Villa Doria Pamphili is a place of ancient artefacts and sculptures on the territory of a huge maintained park covering an area of 1.8 km2. It is a perfect place not only for a calm walk or a rest, but also one of the favorites for jogging.
See the official website (It) for more info. Get directions.
The 16th century Villa Medici had served as the home the influential Medici family for more than two centuries, before it ended up in the hands of Napoleon Bonaparte. Napoleon moved the French Academy of Arts here, which has been hosting exhibitions there from 1803 up to today!
To see what's on, or for guided tours through the villa and its lovely gardens, see the official website. Get directions.
San Paolo fuori le Mura was built on the burial site of St Paul. The church was constructed beyond the city limits, which explains its name, 'outside the walls' (fuori le mura). As one of the four Papal basilicas of Rome, its interior is striking with elegance and luxury. Get directions.
Mercato delle Stampe is a small outside market, exclusively dedicated to art. It's a good place to search for paintings, lithographs, and old engravings in a casual atmosphere.
Find the market from Monday till Saturday until 13:30h. Get directions.
Pincian Hill is not part of the famous seven hills of Rome, but the view from here is one of the best. The hill rises above Piazza del Popolo and offers you an amazing view over the city from its Belvedere terrace. Highly recommended during sunset. Get directions.
Villa Borghese is the green heart of the city, strikingly laid out in a heart-shaped form. To get around it on foot will take some time, but it is worth it! You will get acquainted with numerous works of art, will be able to spot funny animals in the biopark, and if you want to make it a bit easier rent a bike or a segway and enjoy your green ride! Get directions.
The mystical Mouth of Truth is located in the wall of the Santa Maria in Cosmedin church. Once this marble slab terrified many Romans, serving as a detector of lies. The legend says that if a liar puts his hand into the mouth, it shall be bitten off, as can be seen in the movie Roman Holiday. Get directions.
The Musei Capitolini are considered the first museums in the world, opened to the public in 1734. The museums are housed in the two opposite palaces on Michelangelo's Piazza del Campidoglio. Highlights include the original Lupa Capitolina, and painting masterpieces such as the San Giovanni Battista by Caravaggio.
The museums are open every day! Get directions.
The Santa Maria del Popolo has its roots in a small chapel that appeared here in 1099, founded by Pope Paschal II. Today the basilica is decorated with masterpieces of Bramante, Bernini and Rafaello. The Cerasi chapel includes two masterpieces of Caravaggio: The Crucifixion of St Peter and the Conversion of Saint Paul.
The basilica is closed on Sundays, and beware of the afternoon break! Get directions.
Campo de’ Fiori is a historical open-air market mainly offering fish, vegetables, beautifully folded fruits, spices, and delicacies. Fruit stands prepare smoothies and fruit salads to be eaten sitting under the statue of Giordano Bruno.
Find the market every day until 14h. Get directions.
Castel Sant’Angelo built in 123-139 AD has changed roles many times. From funeral monument for Emperor Hadrian into fortified outpost, from terrible prison into a splendid Renaissance residence with amazing frescoes. Currently it hosts a museum where you can see the Secret Archive, the Treasure Hall, and the papal apartments.
See the official website (It) for visitor info. Open every day! Get directions.
Piazza Navona is one of the most elegant and sunny corners of Rome. In ancient times this area was occupied by the stadium for athletic contests, therefore it has such a special form. It is the place to see the church of Sant'Agnese in Agone by Borromini and the Fontana dei Quattro Fiumi by Bernini, symbols of the ancient rivalry between the two artists. Get directions.
Palatino is one of the seven Roman hills, a place where you can find remains of the ancient Rome and from where you'll have wide views over the archaeological area below. The open-air museum is also rich in thick vegetation that extends along the slopes of the hill.
A ticket is required upon entrance, book it online to avoid queuing. Get directions.
Villa Farnesina is a 16th century villa, with rooms decorated by famous painters of the High Renaissance. The most famous room is the 'Loggia di Psiche' as painted by Raphael.
The museum and its gardens are open on weekdays and Saturday from 9-14h, and on the second Sunday of the month from 9-17h. Get directions.
The Santa Maria della Vittoria is a 17th century Baroque church with rich marble decorations. Inside you will see Bernini's most poetic sculpture group, The Ecstasy of Saint Teresa.
Beware of the afternoon break, usually between 12-15.30h. Get directions.
The area of Quartiere Coppedè (It) is named after the architect who designed the buildings in a bizarre mixture of Art Nouveau, Art Deco, Greek, Gothic, Baroque and Medieval styles. The entrance is a large arch connecting two buildings, with in the middle a huge iron chandelier. Centrally you can find the 'Fontana delle Rane', where The Beatles took a dip after their concert at Piper club. Get directions.
Parco degli Acquedotti is a grandiose monument of the ancient Roman water system, containing seven historical aqueducts out of the original eleven. The aqueducts are located in a picturesque valley, which stretches between the historical Via Appia and Via Tuscolana. Get directions.
The Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore is one of the four Papal basilicas. According to the legend, Virgin Mary appeared to Pope Liberius instructing him that the basilica had to be built on the place covered with snow the next morning. And the snow came, in August! This legend is celebrated every year on August 5, when parishioners of the church are showered with white flower petals. Get directions.
Via Margutta is a beautiful corner of peace and rest. Historically it was a place of craft shops and stables, nowadays a centre of art galleries and fashion restaurants. The characteristic street with its beautiful greenery got exclusive after it appeared in Roman Holiday (shot on Via Margutta 51), with Federico Fellini amongst others buying a house here. Get directions.
Palazzo Valentini is a unique place that preserves in its underground the rests of an imperial age thermae with its mosaics, decorated walls, polychrome floors, pavements, and other artefacts. Through a virtual reconstruction, with projections, light and sound effects visitors are able to see the 'reborn' Domus Romane.
The palazzo is closed on Tuesdays. Get directions.
Rome is unconditional love. There is generally everything that your heart desires. The best museum collections, ancient ruins, beautiful churches. Not to mention that all across the city you can smell delicious carbonara and see fashionable Italians walking the streets. There is no other city like it.
If you are willing to avoid tourist traps and overpriced excursions, then there is even a way to fully experience Rome for free. Without spending a euro. Too good to be true? Read more
Also known as the Square Colosseum, it’s one of the symbols of the EUR and of 20th century architecture. Inspired by the ancient beauty of the Colosseum, it was supposed to symbolize the revival of the 'new Roman Empire', within the Fascist era.
Nowadays it's the office of the Fendi fashion group. During the night, beautiful lights make it even more elegant. Get directions.
The Montecitorio Obelisk was built in Egypt in the 6th century BC, and brought to Rome by Emperor Augustus in 10 BC. The obelisk was first part of a huge sundial on Campus Martius, before it was placed here, in front of Palazzo Montecitorio, the seat of the Italian Chamber of Deputies. Get directions.
Villa Celimontana is a shaded oasis built on top of the hill, around Villa Mattei. The calm area with plenty of benches and artworks, gives the feeling of being far away from the city.
The park closes around sunset. The entrances can be found on the North and East sides, with the main entrance from Via della Navicella. Get directions.
MACRO Testaccio, a branch of the MACRO Museum, occupies the buildings of a former 19th century slaughterhouse (It). It serves as a platform for independent art projects, performances and concerts.
The opening hours of MACRO Testaccio depend on the exhibition or event, see the official website for more info. Get directions.
The San Giovanni in Laterano is also called the 'Mother of All Churches', being the official seat of the Pope. Inside there are twelve huge sculptures of the Apostles, and a magnificent cosmatesque floor. But the main relics are the Holy Staircase, by which Jesus allegedly ascended to trial, and a piece of the Holy Sponge brown with blood. Get directions.
Monti market is quite an unusual market located inside the building of Grand Hotel Palatino. Here you will find many original pieces of clothing and retro creations, jewelry, sunglasses, shoes, clothes in different styles and art objects. The atmosphere is hip. Check out the official website (It) to learn more.
The market is organized every weekend from September till June, from 10-20h. Get directions.
The Column of Marcus Aurelius is a 40-meters tall victory monument located on Piazza Colonna. Its spiral relief tells about the Marcomannic Wars of Marcus Aurelius. The column was inspired by Trajan's Column, but the relief here is more expressive. Get directions.
Via Appia is the 'highway' of ancient times that led to Brundisium in the South of Italy. Known as the 'regina viarum' (queen road) its length of 540 km connected the Roman Empire with strategically important neighbours: Greece, Egypt and Asia.
Nowadays you can rent a bike and go a long way along the road, enjoying the landscape and the ancient ruins. Get directions.
This area, also known as 'Tridente', is a true dolce vita place for the shopping addicted. The famous Via Condotti and its surroundings are filled with luxury jewelers and boutiques of the most prominent Italian and international designers. Get directions.
Seventy-five halls of the National Gallery of Modern Art display over 4,000 works, mostly from the 19–20th centuries. It is a place to find works of Van Gogh, Claude Monet, Cezanne, Kandinsky, Morandi or Pollock.
The gallery is closed on Mondays. Get directions.
The construction of the Santa Maria in Ara Coeli started in the 13th century, supposedly on the ruins of the Temple of Giunone Moneta. The stairway of 124 marble steps was added later, thanking God for putting an end to the Black Death.
The most striking elements of the interior are the carved ceiling, adorned with episodes of the Battle of Lepanto and the large number of chandeliers. Get directions.
This is a modern, kind of hip food market, with basically a number of restaurants offering fresh food. It's a convenient way of getting introduced to real Italian food, just off Termini railway station.
See the official website to learn more. Open every day! Get directions.
The Vatican Museums make up one of the greatest monuments of world culture. What began with a small collection of sculptures, has eventually grown into a large museum complex boasting one of the finest art collections covering all stages of human civilization. The art is displayed in the Vatican palaces amidst an incredible interior of stuccos, frescoes, paintings and decorations from the hands of the greatest masters.
In healthy times, the Vatican Museums welcome up to six million people per year, making it one of those places that you need to visit at least once in your life. With our article, you'll be sure to get to see the best of the Vatican Museums, without being overwhelmed. Read more
With more than 45 meters the Lateran Obelisk is the largest standing Egyptian obelisk in the world. It is also the oldest in Rome, built in the 15th century BC. After Emperor Constantius II had shipped the obelisk from Egypt to Rome, it was first positioned in the centre of Circus Maximus. It reached its current destination in 1588. Get directions.
Ponte Cestio is one of the oldest bridges of Rome, originally built in the 1st century BC. Due to the widening of the channel with the construction of the walls along the Tiber in the 19th century, the two arches of the ancient bridge needed to be extended with a third one. Get directions.
The Terme di Caracalla were built in the beginning of the 3rd century AD under the Emperor who ruled under the name of Septimius Bassian, also known as Caracalla. This huge and magnificent building served as bathing and sports complex. Nowadays the historical site is sometimes used for concerts and opera.
See the official website to learn more and book your tickets. Get directions.
The park of Villa Torlonia was created in the style of classic romantic gardens with irregular paths, ponds and a large variety of plants. It is decorated with eclectic buildings, like the Casina delle Civette, with its beautiful Art Nouveau vitrines. The most famous building here is probably the Casino Nobile, former residence of the Mussolini family.
Learn more about the park and the museum on the official website. Get directions.
Palazzo Massimo alle Terme is one of the four sites of the National Roman Museum. The museum contains a magnificent collection of mosaics and Roman sculptures. One of its halls treasures a collection of coins which are said to be used by Julius Caesar himself.
The museum is closed on Mondays. Get directions.
Unità market at Prati is a covered marked with all the things you need from fresh food to books and clothes. For those who want a good sandwich, have a look at 'Molise in Tavola', while for vegetarians or the health-conscious there is 'Banchetto 26'.
Find the market all days, except on Sunday. Get directions.
The Basilica of San Pietro in Vincoli invariably attracts many pilgrims and tourists, not in the last place to see the genius sculpture of Moses by Michelangelo.
The church has a break between 12.30h and 15h. Get directions.
Via Nazionale is an easy connection between the Termini area and Piazza Venezia, the real heart of the city. The wide and busy street is filled with stores of mainstream shopping brands. Get directions.
Piazza Venezia is a very busy central square, and a hub of the Roman public transport. It is named after the majestic and luxurious 15th century Palazzo Venezia, which can be found West of the square. Get directions.
MAXXI is a national museum of 21st century art, designed by the famous architect Zaha Hadid. It is divided into a part devoted to modern architecture (MAXXI architecture), art (MAXXI Art) and a part devoted to research. Locals are very fond of the surrounding area, which is nice to relax.
The museum is closed on Mondays. Get directions.
Via Sannio is one of the many clothes markets in Rome. As a rule the clothes offered here are kind of simple, but you may get surprised by a number of stands offering high-quality clothes. The biggest part of the market is covered, and may give the feeling of a bazaar.
Find the market every day until 13h, and on Saturdays till 15h. Get directions.
Santa Maria degli Angeli e dei Martiri is built on the site of the ancient ruins of the Baths of Diocletian following a design of Michelangelo. Its uniqueness lies in the fact that this 16th century church reunited the Christian faith with the greatness of ancient Rome and the innovation of the Renaissance. Get directions.
The Via del Governo Vecchio is a nice pedestrian street with elegant boutiques, art and antique shops. Though it's in the heart of Rome, it is often missed by tourists. Cinema fans must have a look at 'Altroquando', a place to find books, screenplays and posters of various movies. Get directions.
Circo Massimo was a stadium for chariot races and other sports events, with roots going back even before the Roman Empire. Under Julius Caesar the stadium reached its maximum splendour, with a 600-meters long racing track and places for hundreds of thousands spectators. Get directions.
To find the secret key hole you will need to go up Aventine Hill. In front of Villa del Priorato di Malta you will see a small queue. Be patient and you will be rewarded with a view on St Peter’s dome from an absolutely interesting perspective. Get directions.
Whereas the basilicas of Rome are generally known to be stunning, four of them stand out. They are the most revered, and distinguished as the "Papal Basilicas". Why are these four basilicas so special?
Continue reading to learn more about these extraordinary basilicas, their magnificent treasures and how to make the most of your visit. Read more
Piazza Vittorio is a square with tall palm trees which contains the remains of Alexander's Nymphaeum, a monumental fountain from Roman times. Another highlight here is the so-called Magic Gate, which formed the entrance to the villa of the alchemist Massimiliano Palombara. Get directions.
The National Etruscan Museum tells about the history and culture of the Etruscans, an ancient Italian civilization. The museum is housed in Villa Giulia, a former summer residence of the Popes.
The museum (It) is closed on Mondays. Get directions.
Besides the vegan sausages, fresh vegetables and meat, you can also find the visit the Mastroiani family's fish store here. Or you could decide to stand in line at 'Mordi e Vai' for the most famous sandwiches of Rome.
Find this market from Monday till Saturday until 14h. Check out the official website (It) to learn more. Get directions.
The 9th century Santa Prassede treasures a splendid cosmatesque floor and two masterpieces of the Roman High Middle Ages: the incredibly detailed mosaics on the apse, and the San Zenone chapel which is also referred to as the 'Garden as Paradise'. The heavenly chapel is designed in a style typical for Ravenna.
The basilica is closed from 12-16h. Get directions.
The Altar of Peace is a historical monument, established in the year 13 BC as a memorial altar in honour of the goddess Pax and the military victories of Emperor Augustus, who put an end to the civil war after the murder of Julius Caesar.
Today the ancient altar is placed inside a modern exhibition center that welcomes visitors every evening. Get directions.
Santa Maria in Vallicella (also called Chiesa Nuova) is a medieval Catholic church, reconstructed in the late 16th century. The church includes a number of paintings by Peter Paul Rubens, which were said to have caused 'a stir' among the first Roman observers, as they were not accustomed to his style of painting.
The church is closed from 12-16:30h. Get directions.
The Flaminio Obelisk was brought to Rome by Augustus in 10 BC, to be installed in the heart of Circus Maximus. It was originally built in Egypt, during the reign of Pharaoh Ramesses II in the 13th century BC. In the 16th century it reached Piazza del Popolo as its final destination, where it was embellished with the four basins and stone lions. Get directions.
Caffarella Park is an ancient park in the valley of the river Almona. Its history goes back to the Roman Empire, when the valley was the place for worshipping the Pagan gods. The park is rich with historical ruins, like the Casale della Vaccareccia, founded around 1547.
Learn more about the park on the official website (It). Get directions.
The Santa Maria della Concezione is a small church with behind its inconspicuous facade a remarkable attraction. Amongst the relics and tombs, there's a crypt with five chapels entirely decorated with the bones of about 4,000 Capuchin friars, collected from 1500 till 1800.
The church is closed from 13-15h. The museum is open from 9-19h. Get directions.
Gianicolo is one of the most romantic hills of Rome, with a breath-taking landscape. After the Unification of Italy it became a public park, in memory of the Risorgimento. The equestrian statue of Garibaldi stands proudly on top of the hill.
Every day at noon a special canon fires blanks from here, to set the standard time for all the bells of the churches of Rome. Get directions.
The Dio Padre Misericordioso was built in 2000, the year of the Great Jubilee. The architect Richard Meier designed this church with the three majestic white concrete sails of 26 meters high, symbolically sailing believers into the 3rd millennium.
The church is closed from 12:30-16h. Get directions.
As the heart of the Vatican and the entire Catholic world, the St. Peter's Basilica is one of the main attractions in Rome. Here you can view ancient Rome from the dome, get blown away by the gorgeous interior, attend masses and even receive a blessing from the pontiff. Some of the most outstanding masters of Italy had their hands in creating this wonder, which is saturated with history and legends... Read more
The Fontanone del Gianicolo dominates a big terrace that overlooks on the city. It was built as the terminal part of Acquedotto Traiano-Paolo, as commissioned by Pope Paul V Borghese in 1612. The Borghese family emblems, dragons and eagles are proudly decorating the pretty fountain. Get directions.
Palazzo del Quirinale is the official residence of the President of the Italian Republic, located on Quirinal Hill, the highest of the seven Roman Hills. The palace was built in 1583, and originally served as a residence of the pope.
The unique place can be visited on a tour which needs to be reserved five days in advance, see the official website for more details. Get directions.
Teatro Marcello was one of the largest Roman theatres, which could host over 11,000 people. Only a part of the outer facade is preserved, but this still means a big open-air museum. The theatre was completed in 13 BC under the reign of Augustus, who dedicated it to his son and Marcus Marcellus, his son-in-law. Get directions.
Since 1883 the Botanical Garden of Rome is situated on this place, which used to be the garden of Palazzo Corsini. The area spans 12 hectares, offering a collection of 7,000 plant species. Thematic sub areas are connected by a magnificent alley of palm and coral trees.
An admission fee is charged here (normal tariff € 8), see the official website for more info. Closed on Sundays. Get directions.
MACRO is located in a former Peroni brewery. The permanent exhibition includes works by the most significant masters of Italian art from the 1960s up to the present day.
The museum is closed on Mondays. Get directions.
The 16th century Chiesa del Gesù is the main church of the Society of Jesus (the Order of the Jesuits). Its facade was the first important example of Baroque architecture. Do not miss the fresco 'Triumph of Jesus' by Giovanni Battista Gaulli, a unique painting with a 3D image effect.
The church is closed from 12:30-16h (we recommend a visit between 16:30-18h). Get directions.
Trionfale market is one of the larger markets of the city. For the convenience of visitors, it is divided into corridors, and counters, all color-labelled indicating the category of goods. Green for vegetables and fruits, red for meat, blue for fish.
Find the market from Monday till Saturday until 14h. On Tuesdays and Fridays open till 19h. Get directions.
Historically this charming area was known as a place of craft stores. Today you can find not only crafts here, but also small furniture that furnished the homes of the Roman bourgeoisie of the late 19th century, and boutiques selling clothes, shoes and bags created by designers and Roman artisans. Get directions.
Ponte Milvio was mentioned for the first time in 207 BC, as a wooden bridge. Across history the bridge has often appeared as a defensive structure, most notably in the Battle of the Milvian Bridge between the Roman Emperors Constantine I and Maxentius. Nowadays it's a calm and romantic spot, beloved by couples. Get directions.
Sant’Eustachio Il Caffè serves one of the best coffees of Rome. Born in the 16th century, the coffee house moved here in 1938. The interior is still largely in its original state, smartly hiding the coffee machines, so that their exact coffee making process remains a mystery to us...
Please note that coffee is served with sugar here, so ask them if you want without! See the official website for more info. Get directions.
The Tempietto del Bramante is located in the inner yard of the San Pietro in Montorio. The temple is recognized as a masterpiece of the Renaissance, built on the supposed site of the crucifixion of the apostle Peter. Below there is a crypt where you can see a stone on the floor protecting the hole that would have been left by St Peter's cross. Get directions.
The Roman Empire has brought an unparalleled development all across Europe, and later also to the rest of the world. It will not come as a surprise that Rome is still the city with the largest number of architectural monuments in the world. At nearly every step we take in the Italian capital, we can encounter a work of art. One of the places for which this certainly holds is Piazza Navona, a square that belongs to the most beautiful of the city... Read more
Since the end of the 19th century Colle Oppio is open as a public garden, sloping down the Colosseum valley. Highlights are the ruins of the Baths of Tito and Traiano and the Domus Aurea Neroniana.
The park is always open. Get directions.
The National Gallery of Ancient Art contains works by the best Italian painters of the 16–19th centuries, and a magnificent collection of porcelain and majolica. The collection of the Gallery is divided over the location depicted here, the Palazzo Barberini (closed on Mondays), and the Galleria Corsini in Trastevere (closed on Tuesdays).
See the official website for visitor info. Get directions.
San Carlino is a 17th century masterpiece of Baroque architecture. The church with its wavy interior, was the first major independent commission received by Borromini. The nearby intersection is famous for the Quattro Fontane: four Late Renaissance fountains, one in every corner.
The church is open from 10-13h, and on Sunday from 12-13h. Get directions.
Located in a more multicultural part of Rome, Esquilino market offers a variety of food. In this market hall you can find products from every culture and cuisine.
Find the market from Monday till Saturday until 14h. Get directions.
Via dei Coronari is a historical pedestrian street with trendy boutiques mostly selling clothes and accessories. Also a nice area for antique lovers. Get directions.
Auditorium Parco della Musica is a multifunctional complex for musical and cultural events, designed by the architect Renzo Piano. It is composed of three halls with shapes recalling a beetle, positioned around an open-air theatre, the Cavea.
See the official website for visitor info and tickets. Get directions.
Only recently completed, the Fuksas Cloud (It) is already iconic for the EUR district. It is built with innovative, eco-compatible and technologically advanced materials. The cloud is the most characteristic and visible element: an amorphous creation floating inside the glass and steel structure, accessible via suspended walkways. Get directions.
Calm oasis, perfect to get a moment of rest in the shade. The garden was developed by the royal gardener Giuseppe Roda (It) in 1888, and opened to the public in 1969.
The garden closes around sunset. Get directions.
Scuderie del Quirinale organizes temporary exhibitions of the greatest masters of arts, like Rembrandt, Titian or Caravaggio. One of the highlights of the building is the 'vetrata', a beautiful glass door on the 2nd floor which allows for a marvellous view over Rome.
Check out the official website to see what's on! Open every day! Get directions.
Santa Maria sopra Minerva is a rare example of the Gothic style in Rome. This basilica contains the remains of several important characters including Caterina da Siena, proclaimed Church Doctor, and the mystical painter Beato Angelico. Left of the altar you can find the pearl of the church, Michelangelo's masterpiece Risen Christ.
In weekends, the basilica is closed from 12:30-15:30h. Get directions.
Parioli market is a nice mixture of a traditional food market with stands offering fresh meat, fish, fruits and vegetables, and stands offering street food and aperitivo.
The regular opening hours of this market are from Monday till Saturday, from 7h until 14h. And besides that, Parioli market also offers an evening opening until 23h! Get directions.
The shopping centre of the elegant Prati district. Shops and boutiques for all tastes and budgets, mostly clothes and accessories. Worth visiting is the Castroni store (It), easily traceable by the scent of its roasted coffee. The store sells food, wines and spirits from all around the world. Get directions.
The Portico of Octavia was dedicated to Augustus' sister Octavia. It included 2 temples, Greek and Latin libraries and a large public meeting space. In the Middle Ages these places were used as a fish market, giving it the name 'Peschiera'. Today it is just the monumental entrance with a four-column prospect that is left. Get directions.
Via Piccolomini offers an amazing view on St Peter's dome that cannot be missed! Walking along the street while looking at the dome, the closer you approach, the more the dome seems to move away. If you go back, the dome looks bigger and closer. A fascinating game of perspective! Get directions.
From an early age, most of us are taught that Rome is above all the mighty ruins of any ancient city, with its incredible Colosseum and the Forums. That it is the city of the Pope and the Cathedral of St. Peter, the home of masterpieces of the great Michelangelo, Bernini, Caravaggio and Raphael. But don't get blinded only by the most prominent treasures, as Rome is fraught with many more gems.
The area of Quartiere Coppedè can rightly be considered as one of those wonders... Read more
After being a vineyard and a hunting area, Park Villa Glori (It) opened to the public in 1923, honouring those fallen in WWI. It is a calm park, almost exclusively used by Romans. The hilly park includes a number of contemporary artworks, some playgrounds and pony riding for children.
The park closes in the evening. Get directions.
Centrale Montemartini is museum treasuring a large number of classical sculptures. It is part of the Musei Capitolini. Located on the territory of the former power plant Elettrica Montemartini, it forms an outstanding example of the transformation of an industrial facility into an exhibition space.
The museum is closed on Mondays. Get directions.
Before the construction of the San Luigi dei Francesi, the French community in Rome had only a small chapel. To change this, the French crown bought land and erected this church, financed by Catherine de' Medici. The main treasure of this church are the works of Caravaggio in the Contarelli Chapel.
The afternoon closings here are usually from 12.30-14.30h. Get directions.
The Flower market is a market hall filled with colors and perfumes. The place in Rome to find countless species of flowers, at economic rates.
Find the market every day until 13h. Get directions.
The Cemetery of Testaccio offers a pleasant walk with no noise, between trees and flowers. Famous people of every faith are buried here, for instance Malwida von Meysenbug and the English poet John Keats. One of the symbols of this place is the sculpture by William Wetmore Story, called the Angel of Grief, made for the death of his wife. Get directions.
Foro Italico is a sports complex, built between 1928 and 1938. It includes Stadio dei Marmi, with 60 statues of athletes donated by the Italian provinces, and other venues for the 1960 Summer Olympics, such as the Stadio Olimpico, and the Tennis Stadium which still hosts the Rome Masters every year. Get directions.
Mausoleo di Santa Costanza is one of the few preserved examples of a Christian circular building, constructed in the 4th century. The mosaics with harvest scenes initially identified the building erroneously as a Bacchus temple.
The mausoleum is closed from 12-15h as well as on Sunday morning. Get directions.
A small and cozy square garden, also known as Giardino Casa dell'Architettura. The benches are surrounded by ancient Roman remains and the Acquario Romano, a building from 1885 designed by Ettore Bernich. Get directions.
Palazzo delle Esposizioni is a neoclassical palace opened in 1883. The palace is equipped with a Cinema Hall, an Auditorium and a Forum. It hosts numerous events and art exhibitions, with the National Quadrennialle as the most famous exhibition, held every four years.
Check out their official website to see what's on! Closed on Mondays. Get directions.
The Mosque of Rome was constructed in 1995 as one of the largest Muslim centers of Europe, accommodating up to 12,000 visitors. Its interior contains a large prayer hall that recalls a forest, with columns mimicking trees.
The mosque is open on Wednesdays and Saturdays from 9-12.30h, except in August and the month of the Ramadan. Get directions.
The Basilica di San Clemente is a unique three-level archaeological complex, two of which under the ground. Beneath the 12th century basilica lie a 4th century basilica and a Pagan temple from Nero's era. Visiting the underground world is paid.
The basilica is closed from 12-15h. Get directions.
Ponte Sisto is a 15th century pedestrian bridge, the best way to reach the charming Trastevere district. The oculus in the middle of the bridge was needed to reduce the pressure on the pillars during floods. At the same time, it allowed citizens to monitor the water level: once it reached the 'eye', it was time to sound the alarm. Get directions.
Parco Virgiliano (It) was originally developed in 1930 by the well-known garden designer Raffaele De Vico (It). It consists of sandy tree-lined lanes, enriched with a pond and small canals. The many benches offer rest in the relaxed atmosphere of the park.
The park closes in the evening. Get directions.
The Basilica of Sant'Agostino was inspired by the Santa Maria Novella in Florence, designed by Leon Battista Alberti. Inside it is a house of masterpieces. The Madonna di Loreto by Caravaggio, a fresco of Prophet Isaiah by Raphael and a Guercino canvas.
The basilica is closed from 12-16h. Get directions.
Villa Mercede is a small and hilly oasis in San Lorenzo, a part of Rome that is not so green. The shaded park includes the public library Villa Mercede, a small sports ground and a playground.
The little park closes in the evening. Get directions.
The San Giuseppe dei Falegnami was built late 16th century, and is beloved for its Baroque decorations. The church is located directly above the two-story Mamertine Prison, where the apostles St Paul and (possibly) St Peter have been imprisoned.
Please note that the roof of the building is currently under construction – at the moment the church opens its doors only on special occasions. Get directions.
