Planning a trip to Rome? Whether you’re a history buff, art lover, or just curious about one of the world’s most iconic cities, Rome is filled with ancient wonders and cultural landmarks. Here are the top 5 famous attractions in Rome that you absolutely must visit, along with why they’re so renowned a fun fact about each and our opinion!
Why it’s famous:
The Colosseum is perhaps the most famous symbol of Rome. Built in 80 AD, this massive amphitheater once hosted gladiator battles, public spectacles, and dramas. With its impressive size and rich history, the Colosseum is a top attraction for visitors wanting a glimpse into ancient Roman entertainment.
Fun fact:
The Colosseum could seat up to 50,000 spectators and featured elaborate trapdoors and underground passages for wild animals and gladiators to enter the arena.
Our opinion:
In our opinion the Colosseum is a must visit at least once in your life time. For someone who visited multiple times, we can say that we never get tired of this amazing attraction.
The only downside to it, is that around 4 years ago, they started building a new metro-line next to it and it hasn’t finished since. This results in a barrier around the front of one side of the Colosseum which is not very nice for pictures. Queues can get quite long, especially in summer. However, it is a definite visit if in Rome.
Why it’s famous:
As the heart of Catholicism, Vatican City draws millions of visitors annually. St. Peter’s Basilica, with its stunning Renaissance architecture and Michelangelo’s Pietà, is one of the holiest Catholic shrines in the world. Its iconic dome offers a breathtaking panoramic view of Rome.
Fun fact:
Did you know that Vatican City is the smallest independent state in the world. It covers only about 0.2 square miles.
Our opinion:
The Vatican is an amazing place to visit. In our opinion, whether you go in or not depends a lot on your preferences or Religion. Queues can get extremely long so we suggest you go either early in the morning or before the last visit. The inside is beautiful and extremely big. There are always people no matter the weather or the period of the year.
Before visiting we suggest that you plan well in advance and allocate time to the specific things you want to see. If you go, we highly suggest that you visit the Vatican museums and Sistine chapel. Even though prices might add up, you will be able to see one of the most famous art masterpieces in the world.
Why it’s famous:
Originally built as a Roman temple, the Pantheon is an architectural marvel. Its 2,000-year-old domed roof remains the world’s largest unreinforced concrete dome. The Pantheon is now a church and is one of the best-preserved monuments of ancient Rome.
Fun fact:
The Pantheon’s oculus, a circular opening at the center of the dome, is the building’s only source of light and also acts as a natural sundial!
Our opinion:
It is a beautiful building and definitely something you should at least pass by. It is relatively easy to get to. A few minutes away by walk from other top attractions mentioned here. Until a year ago, the entrance was free. However, as from last summer you need to buy a ticket.
Even though the ticket is only €5 for adults, we did not find it worth it enough for the money. Although its nice from the inside, it is relatively small. Moreover, when considering the ticket for other attractions such as the colosseum being just €2 for youths, it makes it not worth it at all to pay for the Pantheon.
Why it’s famous
A beautiful Baroque staircase of 135 steps, connect Piazza di Spagna with the Trinità dei Monti church above. Built in the 18th century, this popular spot is both a gathering place for tourists and a picturesque location for photos. The steps are named after the Spanish Embassy, which was once located nearby.
Fun fact:
At the base of the Spanish Steps, you’ll find the Fontana della Barcaccia, a fountain designed by the father of famed sculptor Gian Lorenzo Bernini. The fountain depicts a half-sunken ship, inspired by a boat that washed ashore during a flood of the Tiber River!
Our opinion:
This is a stunning square that everyone should visit. The atmosphere is amazing. It is surrounded by luxurious shops, restaurants and ice cream shops. We highly recommend you go around Christmas time where all the streets are decorated and lit up with different characters. It’s a magical and beautiful experience that we will cherish forever.
Why it’s famous:
The Trevi Fountain is not just the most beautiful fountain in Italy, but arguably in the entire world. Designed in the Baroque style, this fountain depicts Neptune, god of the sea, surrounded by tritons and sea creatures. Legend has it that tossing a coin into the fountain ensures a return trip to Rome.
Fun fact:
It’s estimated that around 3,000 euros are thrown into the Trevi Fountain every day! The money is collected and donated to local charities.
Our opinion:
This is a must see not only for Rome but possibly around the world. It is a stunning place surrounded by people, ice cream and Italian traditions. We personally loved this and would surely do it again in the future. Unfortunately it is currently under renovation and it will likely end up having a boarder around it. This will also likely lead to making people pay a fee in order to go next to it, in order to reduce the number of tourists and protect it better.
Rome is filled with countless historical and cultural landmarks. However, these five attractions are at the top of every traveler’s list. From the magnificence of the Colosseum to the spiritual awe of Vatican City, these sites encapsulate the rich history and beauty of the Eternal City. Don’t forget to check out similar article like this one such as Top 10 attractions in Florence and Best Attractions in Paris. Let us know what you would like next time.
We are Martina and Cyprien, a long-distance couple with a passion for travelling.
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