Planning a trip to the Eternal City? Rome is like one big outdoor museum, filled with world-famous monuments, ancient ruins, and stunning art around every corner. From gladiator arenas to sacred churches and lively piazzas, there's something here for you to explore.
In this guide, you’ll find 9 famous landmarks in Rome that are absolutely worth your time. We’ll walk you through what makes each place special, what to do when you’re there, and how to plan your visit. If you’re into history, art, or just snapping that perfect photo, you’re going to love exploring these famous sites in Rome!
1. Colosseum
Inside the Colosseum ruins | Photo Credits: Magda Ehlers on Pexels
The Colosseum is the most iconic of all landmarks in Rome. Built nearly 2,000 years ago, this huge amphitheater once hosted roaring crowds for gladiator battles and animal fights.
Even today, you can walk through its stone corridors and imagine what life was like during the Roman Empire. Don’t miss the underground chambers, where animals and fighters prepared for combat.
Because it’s so popular, lines at the Colosseum can get very long, and the site fills up quickly, especially by mid-morning. To save time and avoid the crowds, it’s a good idea to book the Colosseum skip-the-line experience in advance, so you can spend more time exploring instead of waiting!
🕑 Best time to go: Early morning or late afternoon to avoid peak crowds and heat
🚇 How to get there: Metro Line B, Colosseo Station
2. Pantheon
Light through the oculus at the Pantheon
The Pantheon is one of the best-preserved historical landmarks in Rome, Italy. Built in A.D. 126, it still holds the record for the largest unreinforced concrete dome in the world. Inside, you’ll notice the giant open circle in the ceiling, called the oculus, which lets natural light pour into the space.
To save time and better understand what you’re seeing, it’s a good idea to book a Pantheon audio tour before you visit. You’ll be able to explore at your own pace while learning about its history, architecture, and the tomb of Raphael, which rests inside.
🕑 Best time to go: Mid-morning for fewer crowds and great lighting
🚇 How to get there: Bus stop Rinascimento or a short walk from Piazza Navona
3. Trevi Fountain
Iconic Trevi Fountain in Rome | Photo Credits: Ezgi Kaya on Pexels
If you’ve ever dreamed of returning to Rome, this is the place to make it happen. The Trevi Fountain is one of the most magical and photographed historical attractions in Rome. With flowing water and dramatic sculptures, it’s stunning at any time of day. Toss a coin over your left shoulder, and legend says you’ll come back to Rome!
Want to go beyond the famous coin toss? The Trevi Fountain underground tour lets you explore what lies beneath the fountain itself. You’ll find ancient Roman aqueducts and hidden ruins right below one of the city’s most beloved landmarks!
Fun Fact: Approximately €3,000 worth of coins are thrown into the Trevi Fountain every day, and the money is used to support local charities.
🕑 Best time to go: Very early morning or late at night for peaceful photos
🚇 How to get there: Barberini Metro Station, Line A
4. Castel Sant'Angelo
Historic walls of Castel Sant’Angelo, Rome
Castel Sant’Angelo started as Emperor Hadrian’s tomb but later became a fortress and papal hideout. Today, you can tour its museum rooms, climb the spiral staircase, and get stunning views of the city and Tiber River from the rooftop.
Because there’s so much history packed inside, consider booking a Castel Sant’Angelo tour. A guided visit helps you understand how the building changed over time and makes it easier to appreciate why this site is one of the most unique historic landmarks in Rome.
🕑 Best time to go: Late afternoon for golden hour views from the top
🚇 How to get there: Lepanto Metro Station, Line A + a short walk
5. Roman Forum
Historic ruins at the Roman Forum | Photo Credits: Abraham Ruiz
The Roman Forum was once the center of ancient Roman life. Senators, merchants, and priests all gathered here. You’ll walk through broken temples, basilicas, and arches that once shaped the empire. This is one of the most impressive historical places in Rome to explore on foot.
Want to see where ancient Romans gave speeches, held elections, and made history? A Roman Forum tour gives you access to ruins filled with fascinating stories. It’s one of the best spots to imagine what daily life was like in imperial Rome.
🕑 Best time to go: Early morning
🚇 How to get there: Colosseo Metro Station, Line B
6. St. Peter’s Basilica
Architectural details of St. Peter’s Basilica Dome | Photo Credits: Özgür KAYA on Pexels
Located in Vatican City, St. Peter’s Basilica is one of the most breathtaking landmarks in Rome. Go inside and you’ll be surrounded by incredible details, from massive marble statues to richly decorated ceilings covered in gold. One of the highlights is Michelangelo’s Pietà, a powerful sculpture that draws visitors from around the world.
To climb to the top of the dome, you’ll need to book a St. Peter’s Basilica experience in advance. It’s worth it, as the climb rewards you with panoramic views over Vatican City and Rome.
🕑 Best time to go: Early morning (especially on weekdays)
🚇 How to get there: Ottaviano Metro Station, Line A
7. Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel
The famous spiral staircase of the Vatican Museums | Photo credits: Abdus Samad Mahkri on Pexels
The Vatican Museums hold one of the world’s greatest art collections. Walk through long halls filled with works by Raphael and Caravaggio. End your visit at the Sistine Chapel, where Michelangelo’s ceiling will leave you speechless. It’s an unforgettable experience and a must-see among famous sites in Rome.
🕑 Best time to go: Early morning or late afternoon; closed on Sundays
🚇 How to get there: Ottaviano Metro Station, Line A
8. Spanish Steps
The Spanish Steps in the heart of Rome | Photo Credits: Valentin Ivantsov on Pexels
The Spanish Steps are one of Rome’s most famous landmarks, with 135 wide stone steps that invite you to slow down and enjoy the scene. It’s a popular place to rest, people-watch, and take in the lively atmosphere.
Walk to the top for nice views of the piazza below and the nearby rooftops. In spring, bright flowers decorate the steps, making this landmark an especially great spot for photos.
🕑 Best time to go: Sunset or early morning for the best photos
🚇 How to get there: Spagna Metro Station, Line A
9. Piazza Navona
Piazza Navona, a lively square in Rome | Photo Credits: Magda Ehlers on Pexels
The Piazza Navona is a must-see when exploring historical landmarks in Rome. This lively square is always buzzing with energy, thanks to its fountains, street performers, art stalls, and outdoor cafés. It’s a great place to slow down and watch daily Roman life unfold.
At the center of the square is the Fountain of the Four Rivers, a stunning masterpiece by Bernini that often draws a crowd. Grab a gelato, find a seat near the fountains, and enjoy the relaxed atmosphere. It’s one of the best spots to enjoy the feeling of la dolce vita in Rome.
🕑 Best time to go: Late afternoon into the evening for live entertainment
🚇 How to get there: A short walk from Pantheon or Campo de’ Fiori
FAQs about Rome’s famous landmarks
What is the most visited site in Rome?
The Colosseum takes the top spot! It attracts millions of visitors every year, thanks to its size, history, and iconic design. It’s a great place to start your Roman adventure.
What shouldn’t you miss in Rome?
Don’t skip the Colosseum, Vatican Museums, Trevi Fountain, and Pantheon. These landmarks in Rome show off the city’s ancient roots and artistic heart. Also, save time to just wander — Rome’s beauty is everywhere.
What are the top 3 historical sites in Rome, Italy?
The Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Pantheon are three of the most important historical landmarks in Rome, Italy. Each one tells a different part of the city’s story, from empire to religion to architecture.
What are the top five things to see in Rome?
You’ll want to see the Colosseum, Vatican Museums, Trevi Fountain, Pantheon, and St. Peter’s Basilica. These places combine history, art, and atmosphere; all things that make Rome unforgettable.
What should I see first in Rome?
Start with the Colosseum and Roman Forum to get a feel for Ancient Rome. Then head to the Trevi Fountain and Pantheon. These are centrally located and easy to reach in one afternoon.
Start your Rome adventure here
Rome is a city that has both history and beauty, as seen in the Colosseum's towering walls and the Trevi Fountain's sparkling waters. With this list of famous landmarks in Rome, you’re all set to step back in time, capture incredible photos, and make memories that will stay with you long after your trip ends.
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