A Guide to the Best Places to See in Rome

Rome is one of the most captivating cities on earth, an ancient destination that pulses with history, culture, and life. Tourists flock to Rome to explore the winding cobblestone streets, breathtaking monuments, and vibrant nightlife. No matter what your interests are, Rome has something for everyone. From its ancient ruins to its exquisite cuisine, Rome is a city that never ceases to surprise and delight.

A Brief History of Rome

Rome was founded in 753 BC by the legendary brothers Romulus and Remus. Legend has it that they were the sons of Mars, the Roman god of war, and they set out to found a new city on the banks of the Tiber River. This city would eventually become Rome, the heart of the Roman Empire, which at its height stretched from Britain to North Africa and from the Persian Gulf to the Atlantic Ocean.

For centuries, Rome was the political and cultural center of the world. It was home to renowned philosophers and scientists, grand festivals and ceremonies, and some of the world’s most impressive architecture. Though much of the empire’s power has since faded, many of its monuments remain, a reminder of its glorious past.

Facts About Rome

Rome is Italy’s largest city with a population of 2.8 million people. It is also one of Europe’s most visited cities with an estimated 13 million tourists annually. Rome is located in central Italy on the Tiber River and is one of the oldest cities in the world.

What to Do in Rome

The best way to experience Rome is to explore its streets on foot, taking in its unique sights, sounds, and smells. Start by strolling along the iconic Spanish Steps or taking a leisurely walk through the beautiful gardens of Villa Borghese. For a more immersive experience, join a guided tour to learn about Rome’s fascinating history.

Rome also offers plenty of shopping opportunities, from high-end designer stores to local flea markets. Foodies can indulge in the city’s incredible cuisine, which ranges from classic dishes like pasta carbonara to modern takes on old favorites like Roman-style pizza.

Top Places to Visit in Rome

Rome is packed with incredible sights and attractions that draw millions of visitors each year. Here are some of the must-see places in Rome:

The Colosseum

The Colosseum is one of Rome’s most iconic landmarks and a symbol of the city’s grandeur. This massive amphitheater was built in 72 AD and could seat up to 80,000 spectators. It was initially used for gladiator fights and other public spectacles, but today it is a popular tourist attraction. To get the full experience, consider booking a guided tour or taking a virtual reality tour.

The Trevi Fountain

The Trevi Fountain is one of Rome’s most recognizable monuments and one of the city’s most beloved spots. It was built in 1762 and features a stunning marble sculpture featuring Neptune surrounded by sea creatures and tritons. Visitors often toss coins into the fountain for good luck – a tradition that dates back centuries.

The Pantheon

The Pantheon is an ancient temple dedicated to all the gods of Olympus. It was built in 126 AD and features a magnificent dome with an oculus at the top that lets in natural light. The temple has been a sacred site for over two thousand years and continues to be a popular destination for visitors looking to marvel at its architectural wonders.

St. Peter’s Basilica

St. Peter’s Basilica is one of the holiest sites in Christianity and the centerpiece of Vatican City. The basilica was built between 1506 and 1626 and features awe-inspiring works of art by some of Europe’s greatest Renaissance masters. Visitors can explore the basilica’s stunning domes, chapels, and altars or take a tour led by knowledgeable guides.

Villa Borghese

Villa Borghese is one of Rome’s most beautiful parks, covering over 80 hectares of land near the city center. Visitors can wander through its lush gardens and admire its grand sculptures or take part in one of its many cultural events like concerts or open-air cinemas. The park also features a zoo, an aquarium, and a planetarium.

Popular Tours in Rome

When visiting Rome, it’s important to take advantage of its many guided tours. Here are two popular tours that are sure to provide an unforgettable experience:

Rome Walking Tour

Discover the best of Rome on foot with a guided walking tour. This 3-hour tour takes visitors through the city’s most popular attractions like the Colosseum, St. Peter’s Basilica, and the Pantheon as well as lesser-known gems like Piazza Navona and Campo dei Fiori. Along the way, experienced guides provide interesting facts about each site as well as insights into Rome’s rich history and culture. Book your Rome Walking Tour today!

Ancient Rome Tour

Explore the ruins of Imperial Rome on an Ancient Rome Tour. This 3-hour tour takes visitors through some of Rome’s best-preserved ancient sites like the Roman Forum, Palatine Hill, and Circus Maximus. Guides provide interesting facts about each site as well as insight into how they were used during Ancient Roman times. Book your Ancient Rome Tour today!

Food Tour

Indulge in some of Rome’s finest cuisine with a Food Tour. This 4-hour tour takes visitors to some of Rome’s best restaurants for tastings of traditional dishes like pizza, pasta carbonara, and gelato as well as modern takes on old favorites like Roman-style pizza and tiramisu. Along the way, experienced guides provide interesting facts about each dish as well as insight into Rome’s food culture. Book your Food Tour today!

Conclusion

Rome is one of the world’s most iconic cities, with a long history and vibrant culture that draws millions of visitors each year. From its grand monuments to its delicious cuisine, there is something for everyone in this captivating city. Whether you are looking for ancient ruins or modern art galleries, this guide will help you explore some of Rome’s best sights and activities – including two popular tours that are sure to provide an unforgettable experience!