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During an Italian holiday, one of the first questions you’ll likely ask is: “What should I see in Rome?”
There are countless must-see sights, and here you’ll find the top 30 tourist attractions to explore in the Eternal City, even if you’ve only got one day to spare.
If you have 2–3 days, you can follow this itinerary and add a visit to the Vatican Museums and the Borghese Gallery.
You’ll encounter many awe-inspiring landmarks steeped in history, and this guide will help you plan your route. If you’re spending just one day in Rome, prepare for a fair amount of walking—but the city’s iconic landmarks and world-famous sights are more than worth the effort. Most of the places listed below are also beautifully illuminated at night and attract visitors around the clock. For those spending longer in the Eternal City, there are also plenty of options for day trips from Rome.
Looking for inspiration ahead of your Roman holiday? Watch films such as “Roman Holiday” (1953) and “The Great Beauty” (2013) to admire Rome’s highlights and iconic settings.
With over 2,000 years of history, Rome never fails to leave an impression. As you explore its most famous sights, don’t forget to sample some authentic Italian gelato, enjoy traditional pasta and pizza in the Trastevere neighbourhood, and step inside the many beautiful churches you’ll find throughout the city.
For a visual preview, I also recommend watching this YouTube video covering the main attractions mentioned in this article.
Spanish Steps
The Spanish Steps, located in Spanish Square (Piazza di Spagna), are an extraordinary piece of architecture and one of Rome’s must-see attractions. This iconic piazza in the historic centre of the Eternal City owes its name to the Palazzo di Spagna, home to the Embassy of Spain to the Holy See.
Additionally, the 135-step staircase was inaugurated by Pope Benedict XIII. Another highlight of Piazza di Spagna is the Fountain of the Boat (Fontana della Barcaccia), commissioned by Pope Urban VIII and created by Pietro Bernini in 1623.
Trevi Fountain
The Trevi Fountain (Fontana di Trevi) is the largest Baroque fountain in Rome and one of the most famous fountains in the world. Its construction spanned 30 years, from 1732 to 1762. Throwing coins into the fountain has become a beloved tradition for visitors across the globe. According to legend, tossing a coin over your left shoulder with your right hand ensures a future return to Rome. A second coin is said to bring new romance, and a third promises marriage.
The first coin guarantees your return to Rome, the second ensures new romance, while the third secures a forthcoming marriage.
The city of Rome has established a charitable initiative, using the coins collected from the fountain to help fund a supermarket for people in need, in collaboration with the Italian Red Cross.
Recommended tour:
Piazza Venezia and Altar of the Fatherland
Piazza Venezia is situated at the junction of four major roads in central Rome. It was named after Cardinal Venezia, who commissioned the construction of Palazzo Venezia in 1455. This building later became the seat of the Republic of Venice, also known as “La Serenissima.” The square’s most striking landmark is the Vittoriano monument (Altar of the Fatherland, or Altare della Patria), a white marble memorial inaugurated in 1911.
Locals often refer to it as “The Wedding Cake” or “The Giant Typewriter” due to its grand appearance. Inside, it houses a military museum, along with frescoes, columns, and intricate reliefs. A colossal bronze statue of Victor Emmanuel II and the eternal flame stand proudly at the front. From the top of the monument, visitors can enjoy a stunning panoramic view of Rome.
Roman Forum
The Roman Forum (Foro Romano) is an archaeological site surrounded by the remains of some of the most significant government buildings of ancient Rome. Located in the heart of the city, the Forum was, for centuries, the epicentre of daily life in the Eternal City—hosting triumphal processions, elections, major public speeches, criminal trials, gladiator matches, and commercial activity.
Nestled between the Palatine and Capitoline Hills, the site is a treasure trove of ancient history, drawing approximately 5 million visitors each year.
Piazza del Campidoglio on Capitoline Hill
Piazza del Campidoglio (Capitoline Square) is situated at the summit of Capitoline Hill in Rome. Designed in 1538 by Michelangelo Buonarroti, it remains one of the city’s most remarkable squares. Once a site dedicated to Roman deities, it now serves as the seat of the Italian government.
The square is framed by three key buildings: Palazzo Senatorio, Palazzo dei Conservatori, and Palazzo Nuovo. At its centre stands a bronze equestrian statue of Marcus Aurelius. This is a replica—the original is preserved inside the Capitoline Museums.
Capitoline Wolf
The Capitoline Wolf (Lupa Capitolina) is a bronze sculpture depicting the mythical she-wolf suckling the twin infants, Romulus and Remus—the legendary founders of Rome in 753 BC. According to the myth, when their grandfather was overthrown by his brother Amulius, the twins were cast into the River Tiber. They were rescued by a she-wolf who cared for them until a shepherd found and raised them. The original statue is now housed in the Capitoline Museums.
The Forum of Caesar
Among the top sights to see in Rome is the Forum of Gaius Julius Caesar, built in 46 BC. Originally intended as an extension of the Roman Forum, the site gradually took on a broader function. As Caesar became more involved in its development, it evolved into a space for public business closely linked with the Roman Senate.
Trajan’s Forum
Trajan’s Forum comprises the ruins of several significant structures. One of the most remarkable is what is often considered the world’s first shopping centre.
Trajan’s Market included shops and residential spaces. The surviving sections still showcase its multi-level design, with traces of elegant marble flooring and even a library. Another prominent feature of the forum is Trajan’s Column, which depicts his military campaigns in Dacia. It is widely believed that the tradition of erecting triumphal columns in ancient Rome began during the reign of Emperor Trajan.
The Forum of Augustus
The Forum of Augustus was commissioned by Emperor Augustus following his victory at the Battle of Philippi in 42 BC.
It features the Temple of Mars Ultor. Although never fully completed, both the forum and the temple were inaugurated in 2 BC—40 years after they were first promised. The complex was designed to ease overcrowding in the Roman Forum by providing a new venue for legal proceedings and public functions.
The Colosseum
The Colosseum (Colosseo), also known as the Flavian Amphitheatre, is one of the most iconic landmarks in ancient Roman history and architecture.
Constructed during a grand phase of urban renewal, the Colosseum was the empire’s premier venue for public spectacles for over four centuries.
Wondering what to see in Rome? The Colosseum is an absolute must. Tickets can be purchased online, via mobile app, or at the ticket office. A full entry ticket costs €16 (≈ £14) and includes access to the Colosseum, Palatine Hill, and the Roman Forum. The ticket remains valid for 48 hours.
You can also book a private guided tour of ancient Rome and the Colosseum to explore its highlights and avoid long queues.
The Arch of Constantine
Among the top places to visit in Rome is the Arch of Constantine, erected in AD 315 to commemorate Emperor Constantine the Great’s victory at the Battle of the Milvian Bridge.
Constructed using elements from earlier monuments, it is the most recent of the ancient Roman triumphal arches.
The arch stands 21 metres tall and 25 metres wide!
Also useful: how many days do you need in Rome to see everything?
Aqua Claudia – Ancient Roman Aqueduct
Commissioned by Emperor Caligula in AD 52, the Claudian Aqueduct (Aqua Claudia) is one of ancient Rome’s most impressive engineering feats.
It is regarded as one of the “four great aqueducts of Rome.” Construction lasted 11 years and involved over 30,000 workers. The aqueduct drew water from several springs in the Anio Valley.
The Circus Maximus
The Circus Maximus (Circo Massimo) was the largest chariot racetrack of ancient Rome. For centuries, horse racing took place in this valley between the Aventine and Palatine Hills. Originally, the site hosted the Roman Games as part of festivals in honour of Jupiter.
A towering obelisk once stood at the centre of the track. Today, that same obelisk can be seen in Piazza del Popolo.
The Knights of Malta Keyhole View of St. Peter’s in Rome
The Aventine Hill is one of Rome’s most exclusive neighbourhoods, lined with historic churches and monasteries. One of its most intriguing sights is the Knights of Malta keyhole, located in Piazza dei Cavalieri di Malta.
Designed in 1765 by the Italian architect Giovanni Battista Piranesi, the square draws many curious visitors who queue for a glimpse through the famous keyhole.
This unique view allows you to see into three territories at once: Malta, Italy, and Vatican City.
Also read: What to see in Rome in 3 days.
The Orange Garden
The Orange Garden (Giardino degli Aranci) provides a superb panoramic view over the city. Designed in 1932 by Raffaele De Vico, its main purpose was to open this stunning vista on the Aventine Hill to the public. The space is filled with decorative orange trees and is a favourite among street artists. It is also considered one of the most romantic spots in Rome.
The Mouth of Truth
The Mouth of Truth (Bocca della Verità) is an ancient marble carving made from Pavonazzo marble, believed to be over 2,200 years old. The stern face of an unidentified deity is positioned beneath the portico of the church of Santa Maria in Cosmedin. According to Roman legend, it is impossible to lie while standing before this formidable mask.
The Temple of Hercules Victor and Temple of Portunus
- The Temple of Portunus is among the best-preserved Roman temples. It was dedicated to Portunus, the god of keys, gates, and livestock, and stands beside the Mouth of Truth and the Temple of Hercules.
- The Temple of Hercules Victor is the only remaining sacred structure from ancient Rome built entirely of Greek marble. Legend says Hercules rested here after completing his tenth labour. It was converted into a Christian church in 1140 and dedicated to San Stefano.
Arch of Janus
The Arch of Janus was constructed in the early 4th century CE using salvaged materials, including marble, pottery shards, and brickwork. Although its exact function remains uncertain, it is thought to have provided a shaded meeting point thanks to its distinctive four-way design.
The Theatre of Marcellus
Julius Caesar initiated the construction of the Theatre of Marcellus, aspiring to create the grandest stone theatre in the Roman Empire. It was later completed by Augustus, who named it after his beloved nephew Marcellus.
The structure predates the Colosseum and opened in 1 BC. With capacity for around 20,000 spectators, it played a major role in the cultural life of ancient Romans.
The Church of Santa Maria in Araceli
The Basilica of St Mary of the Altar of Heaven (Santa Maria in Araceli) is a titular basilica located on the Capitoline Hill. It remains the official church of the City Council of Rome, which still uses the historic title Senatus Populusque Romanus (SPQR).
Several influential Roman families are buried within, and the church hosts many wedding ceremonies each year. Visitors are often drawn to its elaborate 17th-century interior decorations.
Ancient Insula Romana
In ancient Roman architecture, an *insula* was a multi-storey apartment building that housed the bulk of the urban population. The term also referred to a city block. Remains of a Roman insula can be seen near Piazza Venezia, offering rare insight into everyday living conditions in imperial Rome.
Palazzo Mattei di Giove
Palazzo Mattei di Giove, located in Rome’s Jewish Ghetto, is a historical palace also known as the House of Mattei. The Mattei family was one of Italy’s most powerful noble dynasties, holding high positions in the Papal Curia and Roman government.
Today, visitors can admire their extraordinary art collection, still on display within the palace, a hidden gem in the heart of the city.
The Turtle Fountain
Constructed by Taddeo Landini between 1581 and 1588, the Turtle Fountain is regarded as one of Rome’s earliest and finest fountains. It has gained international recognition, with four replicas created in the United States. The design features four bronze youths supporting a circular basin with one hand while helping a turtle climb with the other. It remains one of the most admired fountains in Rome.
Largo di Torre Argentina
Largo di Torre Argentina is an archaeological site famed for its ancient temple ruins and cat sanctuary. Most notably, it is the location where Julius Caesar was assassinated. Today, more than 200 cats are cared for here, and visitors can adopt a cat or simply enjoy the historical surroundings.
Recommended tour:
Elephant and Obelisk, Designed by Bernini
The Elephant and Obelisk is a sculptural masterpiece by Gian Lorenzo Bernini. You may wonder, “What do elephants have to do with Rome?” In fact, elephants were used by the Romans during the Punic Wars to support their military campaigns. By Bernini’s time, however, elephants were a rarity in Rome, so he likely based his design on illustrations, resulting in some anatomical inaccuracies. Behind the sculpture stands one of Rome’s thirteen ancient obelisks.
Pantheon
The Pantheon is an ancient Roman temple dedicated to the gods. It exemplifies the architectural brilliance of the Roman Empire. Thought to have been rebuilt around AD 120 on the site of a temple commissioned by Marcus Agrippa in 27 BC, the Pantheon is one of the few ancient buildings in Rome that remains largely intact.
Navona Square
Piazza Navona is one of Rome’s most elegant and vibrant squares. Originally the site of an ancient stadium used for athletic contests, it is now home to baroque fountains and historic churches.
At the heart of the square lies the Fountain of the Four Rivers (Fontana dei Quattro Fiumi), designed by Gian Lorenzo Bernini between 1648 and 1651. The fountain features majestic river gods representing four of the world’s great rivers:
- Nile – a key river in Africa, shrouded in mystery, hence the god is shown with a covered head.
- Danube – the major river symbolising Europe.
- Ganges – sacred in India, shown with a long oar to represent navigability.
- Río de la Plata – representing the Americas, with coins as a symbol of wealth.
Palace of Justice
The Palace of Justice (Palazzo di Giustizia) features ten grand statues of renowned jurists that line the entrance ramps and inner courtyard. The top of the façade is adorned with a bronze coat of arms belonging to the House of Savoy. Inside the Hall of the Supreme Court, visitors can admire a series of exceptional frescoes.
Castel Sant’Angelo
The Mausoleum of Hadrian, also known as Castel Sant’Angelo, stands on the banks of the Tiber and dates back to the early days of Christianity. Over the centuries, it has served as an imperial refuge, papal residence, fortress, prison, and today—museum and treasury. Inside, you’ll find one of the finest viewing terraces in the city. Admission costs €14, and booking in advance is not necessary.
Read more about where to travel from Rome.
The Vatican City
No trip to Rome would be complete without visiting the Vatican. The smallest country in the world is home to the awe-inspiring St Peter’s Square, the magnificent Basilica and its dome, the Vatican Museums, and the world-famous Sistine Chapel. These must-see attractions offer unforgettable experiences for every visitor.
Make sure to book your Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel tickets in advance. Visitors may also have the opportunity to see the Pope, as papal audiences are held weekly.
Experience the spiritual heart of the Christian world on a private sunrise tour of St Peter’s Basilica.
ROUTE MAP
Using this walking route map, you can follow our suggested itinerary.
What’s your favourite landmark in the Eternal City? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below!
