27 Places to See in Rome: A Local’s Guide to Rome in 2026

Rome is a city where every cobblestone has a story, but let’s be honest, it’s also a city where every cobblestone seems to have a thousand tourists standing on it. When you start planning your trip, the common pain point hits almost immediately: there are so many monuments, churches, and hidden corners that it feels impossible to narrow down which ones are actually worth your precious time, right?

Most guides will give you the same “Top 10” list you’ve seen a dozen times, but you aren’t just looking for the basics; you want to know the unmissable places to see in Rome that make the city feel alive, beyond the typical postcard shots.

I get asked all the time by readers, “I only have a few days, what are the real essentials?” After four trips to Rome and many long walks with my local friends who show me the neighborhoods most tourists just “fly over,” I’ve learned that the best visit isn’t about seeing everything, it’s about seeing the right things at the right time.

Whether it’s knowing exactly when to hit Piazza Navona to have it all to yourself or understanding the new rules for the Trevi Fountain, I’ve put together this guide to help you plan a trip that is super-organized and, most importantly, stress-free.

This list is designed for you, the traveler who wants a splurge-worthy experience without the “traveler’s burnout” of endless queues and overpriced tourist traps.

By the time you finish reading, you’ll have a clear plan to navigate the city like an insider, ensuring you don’t waste a single minute of your Roman holiday.

From ancient mausoleums with the best rooftop views to the eerie legends of Piazza del Popolo, here is my complete list of the absolute unmissable places to see in Rome.

So get your pen and paper and start taking notes. I wrote so many articles about Rome that you will find everything you need to know in my travel guide, “The Complete Guide of Rome.”

27 Unmissable Places to See in Rome

Historical Sights in Rome

1. The Colosseum: 

The Colosseum is one of the unmissable places to see during a first holiday in Rome, and trust me, the hype is real. Every time I step into the heart of this massive amphitheater, I am in total awe of how big it actually is. I have been inside 4 times now, and even after all those visits, my jaw still hits the floor when I see where the gladiators once stood.

Getting tickets can be a bit of a scramble since they often sell out in minutes on the Official Website. To make it easier, I recommend booking a guided tour of the Colosseum and the Roman Forum. It is a fantastic way to skip the stress of planning and ensure you do not miss any of the juicy history or hidden corners.

There are so many cool ways to see the monument these days, including the arena floor, the spooky underground, and even the attic, which opens a few times a month. Just a little pro tip from my own clumsy past: make sure you join the right queue when you arrive.

On my first visit, I accidentally spent ages in the group-tour line even though I only had a standard entrance ticket. I felt so silly when I realized my mistake, so keep your eyes peeled for the signs. On my last trip, I made sure to get there early so I would have plenty of time after my visit to walk around and take pictures from all the best angles. I took like 100 pictures on my last visit because every corner is just so iconic (but I needed them for this travel website, so they were never enough).

One of my favorite travel tips for visiting Rome is to stay alert for scammers, as there are plenty of them outside waiting for tourists. If you follow this plan, you will have a perfectly organized morning exploring the ruins of the Roman Empire.

See the Colosseum, Palatine Hill, and Roman Forum tours .  

Opening Times: Every day from 10 am to 7 pm. (It is free every 1st Sunday of the month from 8.30 am to closing time, but the queue will be very long, so be prepared to stay in line for hours or go there at 7 am). 

2. The Palatine Hill and Roman Forum: 

The Palatine Hill and the Roman Forum are two of the best historical places in Rome for ancient ruins. They are one of the most antique parts left and sit as the center of the famous Seven Hills. This legendary spot is where Romulus founded the city way back in 753, and you can still feel that ancient magic in the air.

While you wander, keep a sharp eye out for the massive Stadio, the impressive ruins of the Domus Flavia imperial palace, and the breathtaking views over the Roman Forum from the Orti Farnesiani.

On my first visit, I made one of those classic mistakes to avoid in Rome by not planning nearly enough time. I thought one hour would be plenty but I was so wrong. There is so much to explore inside that I really needed at least 2 hours, especially because I love to take endless pictures and videos.

Unless you book one of the many Colosseum and Roman Forum tours, make sure to plan enough time in your schedule so you aren’t rushing.

One of the biggest blunders I saw other ladies making was wearing heels. Please make sure to wear comfortable shoes because there are no normal streets inside and you could seriously risk twisting an ankle on the uneven stones.

If you are visiting during the summer, you must wear a good sunscreen to avoid getting sunburn since there is very little shade among the ruins. If you need a break, there is a lovely cafe inside where you can grab a coffee with a spectacular Roman Forum view. It is the perfect place to taste some local Roman pastries and soak in the history before heading to your next stop.

Opening Times: Every day from 9 am to 7 pm. 

See the best Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill Tours.

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3. I Fori Imperiali: 

The Imperial Forums are a unique architectural complex made of monumental squares built between 46 BC and 113 AD. They were the absolute center of political activity in ancient Rome, and over the centuries, they were enriched with incredible structures that still stand today. You definitely have to include a visit to them in your 3-day Rome itinerary to truly feel the weight of history.

You can admire the ruins for free from the main street, but I highly recommend walking inside to see the details up close. If you have already purchased a ticket for the Colosseum, you are in luck because entrance to the Imperial Forum is included in that same pass.

A great tip for my lovely, anxious traveler is to come back at night when the ruins are all lit up. It is one of the most atmospheric places in Rome to walk after a fantastic dinner at one of Rome’s most local restaurants.

One of the best views of the entire complex is from the Altare della Patria. If you take the elevator to the top, or even from the lower terrace, which is free to access, you can enjoy a wonderful view that helps you understand just how massive these forums really were. You are going to love standing up there and getting lost in my fantasy of what the city looked like when Caesar and Trajan were walking those very streets.

It is a much better use of your time than standing in a random queue, and the perspective you get is simply unbeatable.

Opening Time: Every day from 10.30 am to 7.15 pm. 

See the Imperial Forum tickets and availability.

4. Arco di Costantino: 

Rome’s iconic Arch of Constantine isn’t just a landmark, it’s a time capsule built to celebrate an emperor’s victory. It is the largest triumphal arch in the city and is covered in intricate friezes that tell tales of ancient wars and grand parades. You will find it perfectly positioned between the Colosseum and the Arch of Titus, which marks the entrance to the Roman Forum along the legendary road of triumphs.

Every time I visit the Colosseum, I see travelers rushing right past it, but almost no one actually stops to admire the artistry. When you are there, I highly recommend taking a few minutes to rest by sitting on the low street barrier in front of it. It is the perfect spot to catch your breath while you look at the tiny details that most people miss in their hurry.

One of my favorite secrets for my lovely, anxious traveler is located right on one side of the arch. You will find a modern, filtered water dispenser where you can refill your reusable water bottle for absolutely nothing. It offers both free cold still and sparkling water, which is such a lifesaver on a hot day.

The water from the fountains in Rome is free and delicious, so skip the overpriced plastic bottles and enjoy a crisp glass of Roman bubbles while you soak in the history.

5. La Colonna Traiana:

Trajan’s Column is a stunning memorial in Rome that commemorates Emperor Trajan’s conquest of Dacia, modern-day Romania. You can admire it easily from the street, but the best way to see it is exactly as I did. I headed up to the terrace of the Altare della Patria for a bird’s-eye view, and the perspective you get is just incredible.

When you get close to the base, make sure to watch the spiraling reliefs very closely. It basically works like an ancient comic book that remembers all the remarkable moments of that territorial extension. It is fascinating to see the level of detail they managed to carve into the stone thousands of years ago.

History buffs should know that this area used to be even more crowded with grand buildings. Behind the column once stood the massive Basilica Ulpia, while the Temple of the Divine Trajan stood right in front. Even though those buildings are mostly ruins now, the column still stands tall as a testament to Trajan’s power

Opening Times: 9.30 am to 7.30 pm. 

Travel Tip: If you arrive in Rome too early for your check-in or your departure time is too many hours after your check-out, and you need a place to store your luggage, check out Radical Storage in Rome, a website that shows you all the safe places to keep your bags while still exploring Rome.

6. La Bocca della Verita’:

I still remember the first time I visited Rome and went to see the Mouth of Truth. I was honestly scared to insert my hand inside its mouth because, as you know, I suffer from anxiety. It is incredible how this sculpture has become one of the iconic monuments where travelers love to be photographed, even paying 2 euros for the privilege.

Sometimes the queue can be very long, and it feels a bit silly when you realize the Mouth of Truth is really nothing more than a large marble mask. This bearded face with pierced eyes and mouth was probably a manufactured cover for the Cloaca Massima, which was one of the most extensive sewers in ancient Rome.

It is quite funny to think that people will queue for 30 minutes just to take a picture with what was essentially the entrance to a sewage system. If you decide to brave the line, you will find it in the portico of the Santa Maria in Cosmedin church.

Imagine all the legendary figures who might have stood in this same spot, even if they were just looking at a drain cover. It is a quirky stop that definitely adds some humor to your trip, especially if you pretend to be as nervous as I was during my first visit.

Opening Times: 9.30 am- 5.30 pm. You can’t book it in advance, but be aware the queue can be pretty long.

Heads up! If you like my content, remember that I covered many destinations worldwide and add more content weekly. So, let’s keep in touch. Subscribe to my free VIP TRAVEL ZEN AREA to become a super-organized traveler and reduce travel anxiety, and receive MY FREE 42-Page Guide to Plan a Super-Organized Trip, weekly updates about new destinations, and travel tips. 

7. Augusto’s House: 

The House of Augustus is a real treat for history lovers, tucked away on the southwestern side of the Palatine Hill. This incredible residence was the result of several republican houses that Octavian Augustus gathered into one grand home after he returned to Rome from Sicily.

He had just secured a massive victory against Sesto, the son of Pompeo, in 36 BC and decided he needed a palace that suited his new status. I highly recommend you make time to visit it because the frescoes inside are some of the best preserved in the whole city. It is possible to go inside and see where the first emperor actually lived, but you need to be super-organized with your planning to visit Rome.

You must purchase a special Colosseum pass because the regular entry ticket does not include access to these elite “SUPER” sites. To avoid any travel anxiety, please double check the clock before you head up the hill. This site is only open until 3.30 pm and it stays closed every Monday.

I would hate for you to hike all the way up there only to find the doors shut. It is a haven of comfort and quiet compared to the busy streets below, and walking through those ancient rooms is the perfect way to spend a peaceful afternoon.

Opening Times: From Tuesday to Sunday, 9 am to 2 pm. 

See the Palatine Hill, the Colosseum, and the Roman Forum private tours.

8. National Roman Museum, Baths of Diocletian: 

Built during Diocletian’s mandate in 305 AD, the Baths of Diocletian were the largest thermal complex in Ancient Rome, and they are so massive that you simply cannot miss visiting them. They could accommodate 3,000 people at once, which is more than twice the capacity of the famous Baths of Caracalla.

The restoration work took a staggering 30 years to complete, so it is absolutely worth the visit to see the results. Currently, you can walk through one of the few surviving parts of the building and use your fantasy to imagine the sheer size of these spectacular ancient spas.

One of my favorite parts is the peaceful cloister with gardens where you can see about 400 works, including intricate statues, sarcophagi, and reliefs, all exhibited in the open air. It was actually my dream to visit this spot, while Lajos was worried it might be a bit boring, but he ended up being even more hooked than I was once we stepped inside.

If you love the idea of thermal baths and luxury, you are in the right area because nearby you can find some of the most romantic hotels in Rome with pool and spa facilities. They are the perfect havens of comfort where you can relax and soothe your muscles after a long day of walking through history.

Opening Times: every day from 10.30 am to 7.30 pm. 

See the National Roman Museum and Diocletian Thermal Baths tickets.

9. Le Terme di Caracalla: 

The Baths of Caracalla, or the Thermae Antonianae if you want to get fancy, are easily one of the most significant and best preserved examples of an ancient spa complex you will ever see. Located in the southern part of Rome, these were built under Emperor Caracalla and were so much more than just a place to get scrubbed clean. Back in the day, a spa was a total hub for sports, health, study, and pure relaxation.

I absolutely loved walking around these towering ruins and using my fantasy to imagine what it was like when the floors were covered in mosaics instead of grass. It is one of those unmissable places to see in Rome during a first trip because the scale of it is just mind-blowing.

What makes the Baths of Caracalla so special is that they are one of those rare ancient spots where you can actually reconstruct the internal decoration in your mind. You can still see fragments of the massive mosaics and imagine the marble walls that once gleamed in the sun.

To keep the water flowing for thousands of people, they even built a special duct from the main aqueduct called the Aqua Antoniana. It is the perfect, stress-free spot to explore if you want to feel the grandeur of the empire without the shoulder-to-shoulder crowds of the city center.

Opening Times: every day from 9 am to 6 pm. (free every 1st Sunday).

See the Caracalla Baths & Circus Maximus Guided Tours availability.

10. Il Circo Massimo: 

The Circus Maximus is the most extensive structure for the spectacle of antiquity and truly one of the largest of all time; you have surely seen it in many movies about Ancient Rome. Along with theaters and amphitheaters, Roman circuses were the absolute heartbeat of entertainment in Ancient Rome.

They were massive, extended enclosures designed for high-energy recreational activities like those legendary chariot races you see in the movies.

Located right in the valley between the Aventine Hill and Palatine Hill, the Circus Maximus is another one of those places in Rome to explore on a 4 day itinerary. I never walked all the way inside because you can see the scale perfectly well from the outside, the side streets, or the terrace right at the entrance.

Since it is right next to the Palatine Hill, if you have even a few spare minutes, you should definitely walk over to admire it. It is really worth seeing just how big it is. We are talking about a space that once held over 150,000 screaming fans.

It is the exact place you always see in Roman movies and TV series, so let your fantasy run wild and imagine the dust and the thundering hooves of the horses. It is a spectacular way to feel the grand scale of the city without any added travel anxiety.

Opening Times: daily from 9.30 am to 7 pm in summer and till 4.30 pm in winter. 

See the Tour of Caracalla Baths and Circus Maximus.

11. Le Catacombe di Roma: 

Another exciting activity to do in Rome is to explore the Catacombs, where the pagans and then the Christians buried their dead. I know, I know, it sounds a little creepy. But for a traveler who is also a bit curious, it is actually a thrilling way to discover the ancient Romans’ customs and traditions while wandering through mysterious tunnels.

Can you believe there are more than 60 catacombs and thousands of tombs hidden right beneath the city? It is definitely one of the top places in Rome to experience local history if you want to see something beyond the usual marble statues. There were originally six Jewish catacombs, though four have sadly disappeared, and the others are mostly closed to the general public.

In our day, only a few of these underground cities are open to us for visitation. You can head to the ancient Appian Way to see San Callisto, San Sebastiano, and Santa Domitilla, or check out Priscilla and S. Agnese in the Nomentano-Salario area.

If you are feeling brave enough to go underground and let your fantasy run wild, you should definitely book a visit to one of the Catacombs. Just remember to bring a light sweater, as it gets quite chilly down there among the ghosts of the past (it actually is cold down there, so if you are cold like me, bring something to cover yourself if you visit it in summer).

Check the tickets and tours available. 

Heads up! Craving Rome’s soul, not just its sights? Skip tourist traps and savor hidden gems. Check out bite-sized food tours and cooking classes that unveil authentic flavors:

• 12 Best pizza-making classes in Rome with wine
• 12 Best pasta-making classes in Rome with tiramisu
• 11 Authentic Rome food tours with wine

Basilicas, Cathedrals, and Churches

12. The Vatican: 

When many people think of visiting the Vatican, they just see it as one big building, but they totally forget that it is actually a whole city-state right in the heart of Rome. It is world-famous for being the nerve center of the Catholic Church, and just to give you an idea of its tiny size, it is officially the smallest state in Europe.

I have been lucky enough to visit 4 times now, and I still feel like I haven’t seen it all because there is just so much to take in. If you stopped to pay attention to every single painting and sculpture, you would honestly have to stay there for days.

Because it is one of the most unmissable places to visit in Rome, it is always very crowded (unless you purchade an early-access Vatican tour) and it is practically impossible to just show up and book a ticket on the spot. You must be super-organized and book your tickets online well in advance to avoid any travel anxiety.

On our last visit to Rome last April, I started looking for a ticket a month and a half before our trip and I only found two by a total miracle. There were only a few tickets left for the entire week Lajos and I were going to be in town, so please do yourself a favor and book as soon as you know your dates.

Once you are inside, the sheer beauty of the museums and St. Peter’s Basilica will make all that planning worth it. I love to just stand in the middle of the galleries and let my fantasy wander back to the Renaissance artists who created these masterpieces. It is a splurge-worthy experience that you will never forget, as long as you have your itinerary locked in early.

Opening Times: Monday to Saturday from 9 am to 6 pm. It is accessible on the last Sunday of the month from 9 am to 2 pm. The last entry is at 12.30 pm. But be prepared: it will be very crowded, the queue will be longer than usual, and you could wait hours, so be there at 7 am. 

See the 12 best tours of the Vatican and the Sistine Chapel.

13. The Sistine Chapel:  

The Cappella Sistina (Sistine Chapel) is the main papal chapel of the Apostolic Palace in Vatican City. It was named after its founder, Pope Sixtus IV. The fabric is from the 15th century. The Sistine Chapel is one of the most important treasures of the Vatican, Rome, and the world. It is famous for its frescoes and for being where the Popes are elected. 

The dedication is to the Blessed Virgin Mary, under the aspect of her Assumption. Please do not confuse it with the Cappella Sistina at Santa Maria Maggiore. To visit the Sistine Chapel, you must first visit the Vatican Museums. 

The Sistine Chapel is inside the Apostolic Palace in Vatican City and accessible via the Vatican Museums. If you plan on doing a self-guided tour of the Vatican Museums, plenty of signs will help you find the Sistine Chapel. 

I visited the Vatican Museums 4 times so far. I visited it every time I went to Rome because I always brought first-time travelers, and I must say I always felt like it was the first time, as it is so big and there are so many things to see. On my last trip to Rome, we booked one of the best Vatican early-morning tours, and it was so good to be the first one to step inside that I highly recommend you book it too.

Opening Times: From 9 am to 6 pm, the last entry is at 4 pm from Monday to Saturday. (It is free of charge on the last Sunday of the month from 9 am to 2 pm. The last admission is at 12.30 pm. But be prepared because it will be very crowded and the queue will be longer than usual so be there at 7 am). 

See the 12 best tours of the Vatican and the Sistine Chapel.

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14. La Basilica di San Pietro: 

St. Peter’s Basilica is one of the most significant buildings in the world and the largest papal basilica. When you are in Rome, you simply cannot miss the chance to visit it, and I do not just mean seeing it from the square, but actually stepping inside. Lajos and I are always in awe the second we enter because it is just so massive.

The decorations on the ceilings are so beautiful that we always end up with neck pain from staring up at them for way too long. Since it is one of the most visited spots in the city, the queue can be a total nightmare. The only way to really cut the line is to book a guided tour of St. Peter’s Basilica, or do exactly what we always do and head there at 6.30 am.

It officially opens at 7 am, but people start lining up early. If you are there by 6.30 am, you will be inside in just a few minutes once the doors open. I am not joking when I say the queue can last for hours later in the day, and nobody wants to spend their precious vacation time standing on hot cobblestones.

You have two choices to keep your trip stress-free: either set an alarm and wake up early, or book a St. Peter’s Basilica tour in advance. Either way, seeing the sunlight hit the marble inside is a storyteller’s dream and worth every lost minute of sleep.

Opening Times: Winter from 7 am to 6.30 pm. Summer from 7 am to 7 pm. Free Entry.

Rome Travel Tip: During summertime, wear a scarf to cover your shoulders and trousers or a skirt that covers your knees, or you won’t be allowed to enter the Basilica.

See the 12 best Vatican tours for families and small groups, visit the Sistine Chapel, skip the queue, and save time. 

15. The Pantheon: 

The Pantheon in Rome is a stunning ancient building originally built as a temple dedicated to the divinities of all religions. It used to be free to enter before the pandemic, but since Rome has become so incredibly busy with travelers, you unfortunately have to pay for a ticket now. You can be super-organized and book your ticket online or just use the ticket machines right outside the entrance.

On our last visit, we decided not to pay to go inside since we had already seen it during our previous trips, but we still made sure to pass by. We walked over right after having a delicious breakfast at Sant’Eustachio cafe, which is honestly one of the best cafes to have breakfast in Rome. Standing in the square and looking at those massive columns while sipping a perfect Italian coffee is the best way to start a stress-free morning of exploration.

Even if you do not go inside, the exterior is a masterpiece that will make your fantasy wander back to the days of emperors. It is such a vibe to sit by the fountain in the center of the piazza and just people-watch for a while. It is a simple, lovely moment that helps keep any travel anxiety at bay while you soak in the history of this incredible city.

Opening Times: Monday through Saturday, 8:30 am to 7:30 pm, Sunday, 9 am to 6 pm, and Italian Bank Holidays, 9 am to 1 pm.

See the Pantheon tickets and availability.

Rome Travel Tip: The Pantheon is usually empty before closing, so check it out at that time of the day.

16. Castel Sant’Angelo, Mausoleum of Hadrian:

Castel Sant’Angelo is a place with layers of history that you can actually see and touch. Originally built as a mausoleum for the Emperor Hadrian in the 2nd century, it has served as a fortress, a papal residence, and even a prison over the years.

While the history inside is fascinating, I have to be honest: the part I loved the most was the art of the view from the rooftop terrace. I highly recommend visiting for that incredible 360-degree view of Rome. At the very top, you will find one of the most unique bars and restaurants with a view in Rome, where you can enjoy a delicious Roman meal while looking out over the city.

It is a fantastic addition to any itinerary to visit Rome. If you are looking for a deal, tickets are often sold at a reduced price after 7 p.m., though keep in mind it can get pretty crowded during those sunset hours. Because of the location, you should plan to visit either before or after your Vatican Museums tour, as they are located very close to each other.

However, please make sure to purchase your ticket in advance online. When Lajos and I visited, we walked right in with zero queue for travelers with tickets. The line for those without was so long I was speechless; I truly don’t understand why anyone would waste hours queuing for top museums in Rome when you can skip the stress so easily.

For me, having everything booked ahead of time is the absolute best way to fight travel anxiety and actually enjoy the moment.

Opening Times: Every day from 9 am to 7.30 pm. 

See the Castel Sant’Angelo Tickets and availability.

If planning your visit makes you anxious because of too many choices, I’ve got a complete 3-day itinerary for Rome and a 4-day itinerary for Rome that also includes food stops at local food places where also some of the best Roman food tour stops.

Roman Squares and Their Buildings 

17. Piazza Venezia e l’Altare della Patria: 

One of Rome’s most visible monuments is the Vittoriano in Piazza Venezia, also known as the Altare della Patria. It is one of the city’s most famous and photographed monuments and remains one of the most important landmarks in the history of Italy, the Risorgimento, and the Savoy monarchy.

The monument contains many symbols and references to national unity and Christianity, representing Italy in all its facets. The best part? It is completely free to enter, and the view from the free terraces is amazing, so do not miss it. You can also take a lift to the very top terrace, but you have to pay for that.

I have never actually been to the very top because the view from the free terraces is already so spectacular that I took a lot of amazing pictures right from there. If you want to see that part of Rome from above, make sure to visit it, or you can book one of the best hotels in Rome with a rooftop terrace, where you can enjoy the city view while having an aperitivo every day of your stay.

It is also a great place to visit before heading off to attend one of the local pasta cooking classes in Rome with illimitate wine that are located in the nearby area.

Opening Times: 9.30 am to 7.30 pm for Altare della Patria and the Cripta del Milite Ignoto. Till 3 pm, the Flags Museum. Price: free. If you want to go to the top of the palace to enjoy the view, the ticket costs 2 euros for 18-25-year-olds and 10 euros for 26-year-olds and older. 

18. Piazza Navona e la Fontana del Bernini: 

Described as the pinnacle of Baroque style, Piazza Navona is one of Rome’s most fascinating and attractive squares, and it also happens to be my personal favorite. On our last visit to Rome, Lajos and I arrived at 7 a.m., and it was absolutely amazing to have the whole square to ourselves. We took so many pictures and videos without the usual daily rush.

The square is circled by restaurants which, while beautiful, are often quite overpriced. They definitely are not part of my list of the most local restaurants in Rome, but you are mostly paying for that fabulous view and the vital, charming atmosphere that fills the square during the day. Here, you can enjoy performances by street artists like magicians and dancers, making it a great spot for people-watching.

The most majestic buildings in this square are the Sant’Agnese in Agone Church, the Stadium of Domitian, and Palazzo Pamphilj. However, the most beautiful parts of Piazza Navona are its three fountains, designed during the papacy of Gregory XIII:

• Fontana dei Quattro Fiumi
• Fontana del Moro
• Fontana del Nettuno

A fun bit of history I love is that until the mid-nineteenth century, the drains of these three fountains were obstructed every summer. This flooded the center of the square to create a huge “swimming pool” for the locals to cool off in.

See the Rome Walking Tour: Pantheon, Piazza Navona, and Trevi Fountain.

19. Mercato Campo De Fiori: 

Located just south of Piazza Navona, this is undoubtedly one of the city’s oldest markets, if not the oldest, dating back to 1869. At the beginning of its history, the Campo de’ Fiori market was almost exclusively for trading fruit and vegetables. I love the image of all the ladies coming in every day from the countryside with their herbs and vegetables, often cleaning them right there in the square.

Over time, stalls for meat, flowers, and fish were added. Nowadays, you can still buy flowers, veggies, and fruits, but you will also find plenty of souvenirs like olive oils, Italian vinegar, balsamic vinegar, savory spreadable creams like truffle cream, and Italian liquors like limoncello.

However, I have to give you an honest insider tip: keep in mind that this market is very much for tourists now. No Roman would actually buy their groceries here because everything is overpriced compared to local markets and supermarkets.

If you want to buy some high-quality food to bring home, just head to a local supermarket like the locals do. Even so, this is still an essential place to visit, as it is such a vibrant part of the history of Rome. It is such a popular place to visit that some of the best Rome food tours also include stops here.

Opening Times: every day from 7 am to 2 pm. 

See the best Rome Food Tours.

20. La Fontana di Trevi:  

The famous Trevi Fountain is the largest and arguably most beautiful fountain in all of Rome. Its name actually comes from “Tre Vie” (Three Roads), marking the spot where three different streets converge.

As tradition goes, if you throw a coin over your left shoulder with your right hand, you are guaranteed to return to Rome. Throwing two coins means you’ll find the love of your life, and three coins? Well, that means wedding bells are in your future!

This is one of the busiest places in the city, and I’ve visited many times during the day only to find it so crowded that it completely ruined the experience. On our last visit, Lajos and I even woke up at 5 a.m. to get there by 6 a.m., hoping for some quiet photos.

Instead, we found the entire area closed off because they were filming the latest season of Emily in Paris (or “Emily in Rome,” I should say!). It was a bit of a shock, and we missed out on our crowd-free shots.

If you are planning a visit it, there is a major change you need to know about. Since February 2, 2026, you need a €2 ticket to access the lower, close-up basin area of the fountain for a coin toss. While viewing from the upper piazza remains free, this new ticketed, monitored walkway is required to reach the water’s edge between 9 a.m. and 10 p.m. daily.

You can purchase these tickets online in advance via the official website (fontanaditrevi.roma.it) or on-site with card-only payments. This new system is specifically designed to reduce overcrowding, so even with a ticket, expect temporary wait times during the busiest peak hours.

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Doing it in the Italian way by buying me a coffee ⤵️

21. Piazza di Spagna e la Scalinata: 

You simply cannot miss visiting Piazza di Spagna and the famous staircase while you are in Rome. They are among the most symbolic and historical places in the Capitoline city, and for good reason. Together with the church, the square leaves a lasting impression thanks to its monumental 136-step staircase.

It was originally commissioned by the French cardinal Pierre Guerin de Tencin and was inaugurated by Pope Benedict XIII for the Jubilee of 1725. If you want to get a picture without the massive crowds, you absolutely must get there before 7 a.m. Lajos and I did exactly this on our last trip, and even at that early hour, there were already quite a few people trying to get their perfect shot.

One very important tip to remember is that you cannot sit on the staircase for any longer than the time you need to take a quick picture. When we were there at 7 a.m., there were no police officers around yet, but don’t let that fool you.

If the authorities catch you relaxing or lingering while sitting on the steps, they can fine you up to 450 euros. It is definitely better to stay standing and save that money for a nice dinner instead!

If planning your visit makes you anxious because of too many choices, I’ve got a complete 3-day itinerary for Rome and a 4-day itinerary for Rome that also includes food stops at local places.

22. Piazza San Pietro: 

Piazza San Pietro is undoubtedly the most famous square in the world for both artistic and religious reasons, and visitors have been able to admire its grandeur for about 350 years. You can start taking in the majesty of San Pietro from Castel Sant’Angelo, looking down the majestic Via della Conciliazione toward the Basilica.

The square is most famous for its incredible arcade, a colonnade that every traveler in Rome recognizes instantly. The obelisk in the center of St. Peter’s Square is probably one of the most famous in the world.

It’s hard to believe, but Caligula actually had it transported all the way from Heliopolis in Egypt! As you can see in the picture above, Lajos and I got there at 6:30 a.m. to see the square without the heavy crowds and to enter the Basilica. This is truly the only way to avoid the hours-long queue that builds up during the day.

I also absolutely loved visiting the square late in the evening after dinner. When the sun goes down and the whole area lights up, it creates an unmissable and magical atmosphere that feels completely different from the daytime rush.

Heads up! Craving Rome’s soul, not just its sights? Skip tourist traps and savor hidden gems. Check out bite-sized food tours and cooking classes that unveil authentic flavors:

• 12 Best pizza-making classes in Rome with wine
• 12 Best pasta-making classes in Rome with tiramisu
• 11 Authentic Rome food tours with wine

23. Piazza del Popolo e le Chiese Gemelle: 

Almost every traveler passes through this famous square at least once, but few know its dark history. Legend says the Emperor Nero was buried here, and a walnut tree grew over his grave that became infested with ghosts and witches. To exorcise the area, Pope Pasquale II cut down the tree, burned Nero’s bones, and built a chapel that eventually became the church of Santa Maria del Popolo.

The square is also famous for its “twin” churches, Santa Maria in Montesanto and Santa Maria dei Miracoli. While they look identical, they are actually different shapes! Because the plot on the left was smaller, the architect used a dodecagonal dome to squeeze it into the space, while the right has a standard octagonal one.

In the center stands the Flaminio Obelisk, the second oldest in the city. Like many things in Rome, it was “borrowed” from Egypt, specifically Heliopolis, after the Battle of Actium to originally decorate the Circus Maximus. It’s a must-see spot that perfectly blends Roman history with a touch of the supernatural.

24. Il Campidoglio: 

The Campidoglio is the smallest of the famous seven Roman hills and the most important. Here arose the city’s first nucleus, surrounded by a system of defensive walls built to protect it from the tribes of the surrounding hills. 

Several buildings are in the Piazza del Campidoglio. The Capitoline Museums are the oldest in the world, with a vibrant collection of finds from ancient Rome, including the equestrian statue of Marcus Aurelius, the remains of the Colossus of Constantine, and mosaics from Hadrian’s Villa in Tivoli. 

And the statue of the Capitoline Venus, in the Hall of Emperors. Do not miss the statue of the Dying Galata or the Capitoline Wolf, a bronze sculpture depicting a scene from the legend of Rome’s founding. The sculpture shows a she-wolf suckling the mythical twin founders of Rome, Romulus and Remus. 

See the Capitoline Museums tickets and availability. 

Heads up! Short on time in Rome? Conquer the Colosseum, devour pizza at the Trevi Fountain, and kiss an Italian Casanova in just a day with a hop-on, hop-off bus tour, ancient history, delicious eats, and iconic sights all served espresso-fast!

25. Villa Borghese e la Terrazza del Pincio:  

Il Pincio is one of the most romantic and picturesque viewpoints in the Capital. You cannot miss it at least once during your stay in Rome, where you can enjoy a breathtaking view of Piazza del Popolo and the city. It is part of Villa Borghese, within the Aurelian Walls, and extends from the terrace of Piazza del Popolo to Villa Medici. 

The name “Pincio” comes from one of these families who had settled on the hill: the Pincii, and the current “Muro Torto” is part of the foundations of their villa. It was the first public garden in Rome, and both tourists and locals love taking a relaxing walk there. It is one of the most famous places and the most popular historical walks so don’t miss it.

See the Borghese Gallery Guided Tour with Tickets.

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26. Il Colle dell’ Aventino: 

The Aventine is one of the seven hills on which Rome, the most southerly, was founded. It is connected to another small hill, called “Piccolo Aventino”, to the east. In the foundation myth, Remo chose this hill to spot birds in flight during the famous dispute with his brother Romolo over where to build the new city. 

Then Romulus won, killed his brother, and built Rome on the Palatine Hill, just the hill facing the Aventine. At the top of the hill, you will find the villa of the Grand Priory of Malta. History and myth intertwine in the Knights of Malta Square, adorned with obelisks, inscriptions, and numerous symbols bearing mysterious characters. 

Once there, do not forget to peek through the famous keyhole of the villa’s door to admire the dome of San Pietro from a spectacular vantage point (there is always a little queue, but it usually moves pretty quickly). 

Furthermore, at this precise point, it is possible to admire three different states simultaneously: Italy, the Priory of Malta, and the Vatican. It is a magical, enchanted place that peaks in May: more than 1,100 species of roses from all over the world bloom in an explosion of color. 

If planning your visit makes you anxious because of too many choices, I’ve got a complete 3-day itinerary for Rome and a 4-day itinerary for Rome that also includes food stops at local places.

27. La Terrazza del Gianicolo: 

It is one of the best spots to enjoy a stunning view of Rome, so plan some time to go there and relax; bring something good to drink and relax after all the walking you are doing exploring this magical city. You won’t regret it. 

Before you go…

So there you have it, my top picks for the best places to visit in Rome, as recommended by locals. With this comprehensive list, you’ll have everything you need to plan the perfect itinerary for your trip. From iconic landmarks to hidden gems, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

And if you’re looking for tips for planning your next super-organized trip, check out my free complete guide. With my help, you can create a stress-free itinerary and enjoy every moment of your next adventure.