A City Guide to Rome: 10 Places to Visit

Rome is one of the most beautiful cities in the world. It is a city steeped in history, culture, architecture and art. Its cobblestone streets and ancient monuments offer a glimpse into the city’s past and its modern-day attractions are sure to please. From the impressive Colosseum to the iconic Trevi Fountain, there are so many amazing places to visit in Rome. Here is a list of the top 10 places to visit in Rome for first-time visitors.

1. The Colosseum

The first place on this list of the top 10 places to visit in Rome is the Colosseum. This iconic landmark was once the site of gladiator battles and was built by Emperor Vespasian in 70 AD. It is considered one of the greatest works of Roman architecture and engineering and stands as a symbol of the power of the Roman Empire. Today, it is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Rome and is a must-see for any visitor. The Colosseum is open to visitors every day except Mondays and offers guided tours, audio tours, and more.

2. The Pantheon

The Pantheon is one of the most well-preserved ancient Roman buildings in the world and is a must-see for any visitor to Rome. Built by Emperor Hadrian in 126 AD, the Pantheon is a temple dedicated to all of the gods and goddesses of Ancient Rome. It is also home to some of the most impressive works of Renaissance art, including Raphael’s “Transfiguration” and Bernini’s “Blessed Virgin”. The Pantheon is open to visitors every day from 9am-7pm and offers audio tours, guided tours, and more.

3. St. Peter’s Basilica

No list of places to visit in Rome would be complete without mentioning St. Peter’s Basilica. This iconic basilica is one of the holiest sites in Christianity, as it is home to some of the most important relics of the Catholic Church. The basilica was built in the 16th century by Michelangelo, who also designed its famous dome. Inside, visitors can admire the many works of art, including Michelangelo’s Pietà sculpture. St. Peter’s Basilica is open every day from 7am-7pm and offers guided tours, audio tours, and more.

4. Trevi Fountain

The Trevi Fountain is one of the most iconic landmarks in Rome and is a must-see for any visitor to the city. This Baroque-style fountain was designed by Nicola Salvi in 1762 and stands as a symbol of the city’s beauty and grandeur. It is also a popular place for tourists to make a wish by tossing a coin into the fountain’s waters. The Trevi Fountain is open to visitors every day from 9am-7pm and offers audio tours, guided tours, and more.

5. Spanish Steps

The Spanish Steps are another one of Rome’s most iconic landmarks and are a popular place for visitors to relax and take in the atmosphere of the city. This 135-step staircase was designed by architect Francesco de Sanctis in 1725 and is one of the most photographed sites in Rome. The Spanish Steps are open to visitors every day from 9am-7pm and offer audio tours, guided tours, and more.

6. Villa Borghese

Villa Borghese is one of Rome’s largest parks and is a great place for visitors to take a stroll and enjoy some fresh air. This sprawling park was designed by architect Flaminio Ponzio in 1605 and is home to some of the city’s most impressive works of art, including Bernini’s “Apollo and Daphne” sculpture. Villa Borghese is open to visitors every day from 9am-7pm and offers audio tours, guided tours, and more.

7. Campo de’ Fiori

Campo de’ Fiori is one of the oldest squares in Rome and is a popular place for locals and tourists alike to spend their evenings enjoying some delicious food and drinks. This square was once home to public executions and today it is full of restaurants, bars, cafes, shops, and more. Campo de’ Fiori is open to visitors every day from 9am-10pm and offers audio tours, guided tours, and more.

8. The Catacombs

The Catacombs are one of Rome’s most haunting attractions and are a must-see for any visitor interested in exploring the city’s darker side. These underground tombs were used by early Christians as burial sites and are home to some of the oldest artwork in Europe. The Catacombs are open to visitors every day from 9am-5pm and offer audio tours, guided tours, and more.

9. Piazza Navona

Piazza Navona is one of Rome’s most beautiful squares and is home to some of the city’s most impressive works of art, including Bernini’s “Fountain of Four Rivers” sculpture. This square was once used for chariot races and today it is full of restaurants, bars, cafes, shops, and more. Piazza Navona is open to visitors every day from 9am-10pm and offers audio tours, guided tours, and more

10. Capitoline Hill

The last place on this list of places to visit in Rome is Capitoline Hill. This iconic hill was once home to the ancient Roman government and today it stands as a symbol of the city’s power and grandeur. Visitors can admire the many works of art scattered throughout Capitoline Hill, including Michelangelo’s “Moses” sculpture. Capitoline Hill is open to visitors every day from 9am-7pm and offers audio tours, guided tours, and more.

Bonus: Tours To Explore Rome

1. Colosseum Underground Tour with Roman Forum & Palatine Hill

Explore ancient Rome with this tour package that includes admission to the Colosseum underground, Roman Forum & Palatine Hill! This tour includes an entrance fee waiver so you don’t have to wait in line and you’ll get an exclusive chance to explore the Colosseum underground tunnels that were once used by gladiators during fights! You’ll also get access to the famous Roman Forum & Palatine Hill which will give you an insight into ancient Roman society & culture! This tour also includes an audio guide so you can learn more about each site while you explore! Book this tour for an unforgettable experience!

2. Vatican Museums Guided Tour with Sistine Chapel & St Peter’s Basilica

Experience Vatican City with this tour package that includes admission to Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel! You’ll get an exclusive chance to explore the world-renowned museums with an expert guide who will provide you with fascinating information about each site! You’ll also get access to the Sistine Chapel which contains some of Michelangelo’s most famous works including “The Creation of Adam”. This tour also includes entrance fee waiver so you don’t have to wait in line! Plus you’ll get access to St Peter’s Basilica which will be sure to take your breath away! Book this tourfor a truly unique experience!

3. Ancient Appian Way Tour with Catacombs

Discover Ancient Rome with this tour package that includes admission to the Ancient Appian Way & Catacombs! This tour will take you back 2000 years as you explore this historic road which was once used by ancient Roman legions for military campaigns! You’ll get exclusive access to some of Rome’s oldest catacombs which were once used as burial sites by early Christians! Plus you’ll get an audio guide so you can learn more about each site while you explore! Book this tour for an unforgettable experience!

In conclusion, these are just 10 places that should be on your list when you visit Rome for the first time – there are so many other amazing places than can also be explored! Whether it’s admiring ancient monuments or exploring hidden gems, there’s something for everyone in Rome! For those looking for a truly unique experience there are plenty of tours available that will show you a side of Rome that you won’t find anywhere else!