Published on 5 February 2025 Last updated on 20 February 2026 Citie to Travel Comments Off
Rome is a city with an unparalleled number of sights. From centuries-old monuments and impressive squares to world-famous fountains and historic buildings. Because of this vast number, it can sometimes be difficult to decide what you really need to see during a city trip to Rome, especially if you only have a few days.
On this page you’ll find a top 10 of sights in Rome that you really should see during your city trip to Rome. For each sight, I give a brief explanation of what it is and why this place is so special.
Sights in Rome
Below you’ll find a top 10 of the most important and most beautiful sights in Rome. These sights are located relatively close to each other, making it possible to combine multiple locations during a single walk through the historic center. At the same time, these are also among the most visited places in the city. It is therefore recommended to visit these sights early in the morning and combine them with less popular sights that don’t require tickets. You can visit those later in the day or in the evening.
Want to know how best to spread these sights over multiple days? Then also check out my practical 4-day itinerary for Rome, in which I’ve included the main sights in a clear day-by-day schedule.
The Colosseum is one of the most popular and most important sights in Rome. Every year, this historic monument is visited by millions of visitors, and there are often long queues at the entrance. The amphitheatre dates back to Roman times and was once used for gladiator fights and other public spectacles. Because of the large crowds, it is recommended to book your tickets in advance.
The Trevi Fountain is one of the most famous fountains in the world, and Italians are very proud of it. The nearly 30-metre-high fountain is built against the rear façade of Palazzo Poli. It is tradition to toss a coin into the fountain and make a wish. You can view the fountain for free from the square, but for access right next to the fountain itself you recently have to pay a small entrance fee (around €2), intended to manage crowds and contribute to maintenance.
3. The Pantheon
The Pantheon is one of the most remarkable sights in Rome. What makes this ancient temple so unique is the large opening in the roof of about 9 metres, also known as the oculus. This opening was deliberately designed and creates a special play of light inside the temple. The Pantheon is one of the best-preserved buildings from antiquity and is still used as a church. Because of the large crowds, it is recommended to book your tickets in advance.
St. Peter’s Basilica is the spiritual centre of the Catholic Church and one of the most important sights in Vatican City. The basilica can be visited for free, but due to its immense popularity you often have to account for long queues at the entrance. Inside, you’ll find impressive works of art and Michelangelo’s famous dome design. If you want to avoid the crowds, a visit early in the morning is recommended.
The Roman Forum and Palatine Hill are located in the centre of the city and are among the most popular sights in Rome. On the site you’ll find impressive remains from Roman times, such as the old Senate House, the largest Roman temple dedicated to Venus and Roma, the Arch of Titus, the Arch of Constantine, the House of the Vestal Virgins, and the tomb of Julius Caesar. Together, these places give a good impression of the political and religious heart of ancient Rome. Because of the large crowds, it is recommended to book your tickets in advance.
Castel Sant’Angelo is one of the most famous monuments in Rome and a sight you definitely shouldn’t miss during your city trip. Inside the monument you’ll find various rooms with beautiful murals and historic spaces. From the top of Castel Sant’Angelo, you also have a breathtaking view over the city and the River Tiber.
The Galleria Borghese is an art museum in the former Villa Borghese Pinciana, located in the Villa Borghese park in Rome. The museum consists of several rooms with an impressive collection of ancient statues, sculptures, and paintings by famous artists such as Rubens and Leonardo da Vinci. Due to the limited entry per time slot, it is recommended to book your tickets in advance.
The famous steps at Piazza di Spagna, also known as the Spanish Steps, are a popular sight in Rome. The staircase consists of 135 steps and three different terraces, which refer to the Holy Trinity. At the top of the steps, near the Egyptian obelisk, you have a beautiful view over the surroundings. Piazza di Spagna is very popular and there are almost always many tourists around.
9. Piazza del Popolo
Piazza del Popolo is the well-known People’s Square in Rome and one of the most popular squares in the city. It’s a place you definitely shouldn’t miss during your visit to Rome. On the square you’ll find striking buildings and two almost identical churches. You’ll also find the city gate of the Aurelian Wall here, as well as an impressive Egyptian obelisk no less than 36 metres high.
10. Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel
The Vatican Museums are an absolute must-visit during a city trip to Rome and are among the largest museums in the world. You’ll find an enormous collection ranging from art treasures from Roman and Egyptian antiquity to religious artefacts, beautifully painted halls, and even modern art. The Sistine Chapel, which is part of the Vatican Museums, is also more than worth a visit. The walls and ceiling were painted by Michelangelo in the 16th century and are among the most famous works of art in the world. Because of the large crowds, it is recommended to book your tickets in advance so you can avoid long queues.
My experience with queues in Rome: why buying tickets in advance pays off
Over the past ten years, I’ve visited Rome more than ten times, spread across different seasons. During my first visit, I was there in June, one of the hottest months in Rome. I had bought tickets in advance for many sights, but not for Castel Sant’Angelo, which I decided to visit on the spot.
I chose to stand in the queue there, hoping to get inside quickly. That turned out to be a miscalculation. At Castel Sant’Angelo, only a limited number of visitors are allowed inside at a time, and people with pre-purchased tickets get priority. In the end, I waited for about an hour and a half in the blazing sun, with too little water with me. Afterwards, it turned out I had also gotten quite badly sunburnt.
In the years that followed, I returned to Rome several times, with my most recent visit in June 2025. During these visits, I always plan in advance what I want to see and buy my tickets beforehand.
Tip: Preferably visit popular sights early in the morning and book your tickets in advance, especially during the busy summer months.
Frequently asked questions about sights in Rome
What are the main sights in Rome? The best-known sights are the Colosseum, the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill, the Pantheon, the Trevi Fountain, St. Peter’s Basilica, and the Vatican Museums with the Sistine Chapel.
Which sights are close to each other in the city centre? Many highlights are within walking distance in the historic centre, such as the Pantheon, Piazza Navona, the Trevi Fountain, and Piazza di Spagna. This allows you to combine multiple sights during a single walk.
Do I need to book tickets in advance for sights in Rome? For popular attractions such as the Colosseum, Roman Forum, Palatine Hill, and the Vatican Museums, it is strongly recommended to book tickets in advance. This helps you avoid long waiting times, especially during peak season.
Which sights in Rome can be visited for free? Places such as the Trevi Fountain (from the square), Piazza Navona, Piazza di Spagna, and many churches, including St. Peter’s Basilica, are free to access. Some locations or areas may still have entry regulations.
What is the best time to avoid crowds? Go as early as possible in the morning or later in the day. In the summer months it is especially crowded and hot around midday. Weekdays are often quieter than weekends.
How many days do you need for Rome? For the main highlights, 3 to 4 days are ideal. This gives you enough time to see the top sights without having to rush everything.
Is Rome suitable for a city trip with children? Yes, Rome is also fun with children. Sights such as the Colosseum, Castel Sant’Angelo, and the Villa Borghese park are often popular with families. Do take waiting times and summer heat into account.
What is the best way to get around between the sights? Many sights are within walking distance. For longer distances, you can use the Rome metro or buses. Walking is often the nicest way to really experience the city.
Edward
Hi, I’m Edward, an experienced city trip enthusiast. Over the past few years, I’ve visited dozens of cities across Europe, Scandinavia, and the United States. On Cities To Travel, I share personal experiences and practical tips to help you plan your next city break. Do you have any questions? Feel free to send me an email.
Disclaimer: This website contains affiliate links. If you book or purchase something via these links, I may receive a small commission – at no extra cost to you. This helps me keep Cities To Travel running and continue sharing up-to-date travel tips.
Over Cities To travel
Hi, I’m Edward, an experienced city trip enthusiast. Over the past few years, I’ve visited dozens of cities across Europe and America. On Cities To Travel, I share personal experiences and practical tips to help you plan your next city trip. Have any questions? Feel free to send me an email.
Sights in Rome: what should you have seen?
Rome is a city with an unparalleled number of sights. From centuries-old monuments and impressive squares to world-famous fountains and historic buildings. Because of this vast number, it can sometimes be difficult to decide what you really need to see during a city trip to Rome, especially if you only have a few days.
On this page you’ll find a top 10 of sights in Rome that you really should see during your city trip to Rome. For each sight, I give a brief explanation of what it is and why this place is so special.
Sights in Rome
Below you’ll find a top 10 of the most important and most beautiful sights in Rome. These sights are located relatively close to each other, making it possible to combine multiple locations during a single walk through the historic center. At the same time, these are also among the most visited places in the city. It is therefore recommended to visit these sights early in the morning and combine them with less popular sights that don’t require tickets. You can visit those later in the day or in the evening.
Want to know how best to spread these sights over multiple days? Then also check out my practical 4-day itinerary for Rome, in which I’ve included the main sights in a clear day-by-day schedule.
1. the Colosseum
2. Trevi Fountain
3. Pantheon
4. St. Peter’s Basilica
5. the Roman Forum & Palatine Hill
6. Castel Sant’Angelo
7. Galleria & Villa Borghese
8. Piazza di Spagna
9. Piazza del Popolo
10. Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel
1. The Colosseum
The Colosseum is one of the most popular and most important sights in Rome. Every year, this historic monument is visited by millions of visitors, and there are often long queues at the entrance. The amphitheatre dates back to Roman times and was once used for gladiator fights and other public spectacles. Because of the large crowds, it is recommended to book your tickets in advance.
2. Trevi Fountain
The Trevi Fountain is one of the most famous fountains in the world, and Italians are very proud of it. The nearly 30-metre-high fountain is built against the rear façade of Palazzo Poli. It is tradition to toss a coin into the fountain and make a wish. You can view the fountain for free from the square, but for access right next to the fountain itself you recently have to pay a small entrance fee (around €2), intended to manage crowds and contribute to maintenance.
3. The Pantheon
The Pantheon is one of the most remarkable sights in Rome. What makes this ancient temple so unique is the large opening in the roof of about 9 metres, also known as the oculus. This opening was deliberately designed and creates a special play of light inside the temple. The Pantheon is one of the best-preserved buildings from antiquity and is still used as a church. Because of the large crowds, it is recommended to book your tickets in advance.
4. St. Peter's Basilica
St. Peter’s Basilica is the spiritual centre of the Catholic Church and one of the most important sights in Vatican City. The basilica can be visited for free, but due to its immense popularity you often have to account for long queues at the entrance. Inside, you’ll find impressive works of art and Michelangelo’s famous dome design. If you want to avoid the crowds, a visit early in the morning is recommended.
5. The Roman Forum & Palatine Hill
The Roman Forum and Palatine Hill are located in the centre of the city and are among the most popular sights in Rome. On the site you’ll find impressive remains from Roman times, such as the old Senate House, the largest Roman temple dedicated to Venus and Roma, the Arch of Titus, the Arch of Constantine, the House of the Vestal Virgins, and the tomb of Julius Caesar. Together, these places give a good impression of the political and religious heart of ancient Rome. Because of the large crowds, it is recommended to book your tickets in advance.
6. Castel Sant'Angelo
7.Galleria Borghese & Villa Borghese
The Galleria Borghese is an art museum in the former Villa Borghese Pinciana, located in the Villa Borghese park in Rome. The museum consists of several rooms with an impressive collection of ancient statues, sculptures, and paintings by famous artists such as Rubens and Leonardo da Vinci. Due to the limited entry per time slot, it is recommended to book your tickets in advance.
8. Piazza di Spagna
The famous steps at Piazza di Spagna, also known as the Spanish Steps, are a popular sight in Rome. The staircase consists of 135 steps and three different terraces, which refer to the Holy Trinity. At the top of the steps, near the Egyptian obelisk, you have a beautiful view over the surroundings. Piazza di Spagna is very popular and there are almost always many tourists around.
9. Piazza del Popolo
Piazza del Popolo is the well-known People’s Square in Rome and one of the most popular squares in the city. It’s a place you definitely shouldn’t miss during your visit to Rome. On the square you’ll find striking buildings and two almost identical churches. You’ll also find the city gate of the Aurelian Wall here, as well as an impressive Egyptian obelisk no less than 36 metres high.
10. Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel
The Vatican Museums are an absolute must-visit during a city trip to Rome and are among the largest museums in the world. You’ll find an enormous collection ranging from art treasures from Roman and Egyptian antiquity to religious artefacts, beautifully painted halls, and even modern art. The Sistine Chapel, which is part of the Vatican Museums, is also more than worth a visit. The walls and ceiling were painted by Michelangelo in the 16th century and are among the most famous works of art in the world. Because of the large crowds, it is recommended to book your tickets in advance so you can avoid long queues.
My experience with queues in Rome: why buying tickets in advance pays off
Over the past ten years, I’ve visited Rome more than ten times, spread across different seasons. During my first visit, I was there in June, one of the hottest months in Rome. I had bought tickets in advance for many sights, but not for Castel Sant’Angelo, which I decided to visit on the spot.
I chose to stand in the queue there, hoping to get inside quickly. That turned out to be a miscalculation. At Castel Sant’Angelo, only a limited number of visitors are allowed inside at a time, and people with pre-purchased tickets get priority. In the end, I waited for about an hour and a half in the blazing sun, with too little water with me. Afterwards, it turned out I had also gotten quite badly sunburnt.
In the years that followed, I returned to Rome several times, with my most recent visit in June 2025. During these visits, I always plan in advance what I want to see and buy my tickets beforehand.
Tip: Preferably visit popular sights early in the morning and book your tickets in advance, especially during the busy summer months.
Frequently asked questions about sights in Rome
Edward
Hi, I’m Edward, an experienced city trip enthusiast. Over the past few years, I’ve visited dozens of cities across Europe, Scandinavia, and the United States. On Cities To Travel, I share personal experiences and practical tips to help you plan your next city break. Do you have any questions? Feel free to send me an email.
These are the most popular tickets and tours for a visit to Rome
Disclaimer: This website contains affiliate links. If you book or purchase something via these links, I may receive a small commission – at no extra cost to you. This helps me keep Cities To Travel running and continue sharing up-to-date travel tips.
Over Cities To travel
Hi, I’m Edward, an experienced city trip enthusiast. Over the past few years, I’ve visited dozens of cities across Europe and America. On Cities To Travel, I share personal experiences and practical tips to help you plan your next city trip. Have any questions? Feel free to send me an email.
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