While the main purpose of this blog is to show you some of Rome's more secluded and lesser-known spots, lately someone asked me for recommendations on the must-see attractions in Rome, as it was his first time visiting the city.
I then realised that I didn't have anything of the sort on my blog, which is why I decided to put together this list of Rome's most famous landmarks and tourist attractions.
Below, you'll find the must-see sights in Rome that you simply can't miss on your first visit. But because I want this to be more than just another generic travel guide, I'll also share some personal stories connected to each landmark. I hope you'll fall in love with this city, just as I have.
Colosseum
The Colosseum had to be the first landmark on this list, because I think it's the most iconic building in Rome. The moment you exit the metro station and see the Colosseum, you'll be in immediate awe. Built under Emperor Vespasian and inaugurated by his son Titus in 80 AD, this piece of history is something you can't miss when in Rome.
It can get very busy here during the day (basically, at every landmark on this list lol), so I recommend going early in the morning or, even better, in the evening. For me, there's nothing more magical than taking a walk past the Colosseum when it's dark outside and the lights are on. In fact, I was walking past here last week on my way to a friend's, and it was one of those pinch-me moments straight out of a movie.
Roman Forum
Right next to the Colosseum, you can find the entrance to the Roman Forum, the public square and gathering place of Ancient Rome. Walking past it is already a treat, but if you want, you can book a ticket and walk among the ruins.
I visited almost three (!) years ago with my university, and I can highly recommend it. On the official website of the Parco Archeologico del Colosseo, you can buy combination tickets for the Colosseum and the Forum. I always recommend buying tickets directly from the official website, so if you want to take a look, you can click this link.
Piazza Venezia and Altare della Patria
While Piazza Venezia is still undergoing some serious Metro C construction work, and is therefore not in all its glory at the moment, the Altare della Patria is always there to be admired.
I've been asked many, many times what my favourite building in Rome is, and sometimes I answer with the Altare della Patria. Yes, I say sometimes, because honestly, having only one favourite building in Rome is a difficult task.
Circus Maximus (Circo Massimo)
Circo Massimo will always have a special place in my heart, since I started so many of my mornings here. My favourite barista used to write sweet messages on my cappuccino each morning, and walking here gave me a huge sense of calm.
I'm aware that this sense of calm is quite ironic, considering the site used to be an ancient Roman chariot-racing stadium and a major entertainment venue. In summer, there are often events at Circo Massimo, and I've even visited a performance of Romeo and Juliet here.
Pantheon
Next on the list is my mother's favourite landmark, the Pantheon. What I love about the Pantheon is the fact that you can be casually walking through the centre of Rome, and you'll still be impressed when it suddenly emerges around the corner.
The Pantheon is an ancient Roman temple, originally commissioned by Marcus Agrippa during the reign of Emperor Augustus. The building you see today was later rebuilt under Emperor Hadrian. The Pantheon is famous for its dome and the central opening to the sky, called an oculus.
I remember a time when entering the Pantheon was free, but nowadays you need a ticket to visit it.
Piazza Navona
One of my favourite squares in Rome is Piazza Navona. There's something about its shape, the fountains and the atmosphere that makes this place feel so romantic and vibrant.
All around the square, you'll also find the cutest little streets filled with vintage shops and boutiques, and you can easily spend an entire afternoon here.
Trevi Fountain
My best friend is obsessed with the Trevi Fountain, but I can probably count the number of times I've been here since living in Rome on one hand.
You have busy attractions in Rome, and then you have busy. The Trevi Fountain is definitely the latter. Don't get me wrong, the Trevi Fountain is beautiful and a must-see when in Rome, but if I can give you one tip, it's to go early in the morning or late at night. In my opinion, the whole experience can become quite unenjoyable when there are so many people around.
Spanish Steps
I have wonderful romantic memories of the Spanish Steps and the surrounding area, and every time I come here, I feel that little magical sparkle.
The Spanish Steps get their name from the square at their base, Piazza di Spagna, which is associated with the Spanish Embassy to the Holy See. If you're looking for one of the most romantic places in Rome, I think the Spanish Steps are the way to go. Maybe at this point I'm a little biased, but I don't think I care.
Piazza del Popolo
Piazza del Popolo used to be my favourite square in Rome, but that spot has since been taken by Piazza Cavour.
The square is very recognisable, with its twin churches and the huge obelisk standing in the centre. From Piazza del Popolo, you can see the famous Tridente, where three streets meet and lead into the centre of Rome. The middle street is Via del Corso, one of the most famous shopping streets in Rome.
Castel Sant'Angelo
After such a long time in Rome, I have to admit that I still haven't visited Castel Sant'Angelo from the inside. Every time I see the queue, I convince myself that it might not be worth it, so I need someone in the comments to tell me that it is worth it (because it probably is) and that I should go.
Castel Sant'Angelo is a unique building in Rome. It was originally commissioned by the Roman Emperor Hadrian as a mausoleum for himself and his family. Later, popes used it as a fortress and papal residence, hence its castle-like appearance and name.
Vatican City
Last but not least, we have the Vatican, St Peter's Square and St Peter's Basilica. I don't need to tell you that Vatican City is an independent city-state, or that St Peter's Basilica is one of the largest churches in the world.
The Vatican is also home to countless masterpieces of Renaissance and Baroque art. You probably already know all of this, so I won't go into too much detail, but I will tell you that you should definitely visit the Vatican when in Rome.
Conclusion
I hope this article will be a good starting point for your first trip to Rome if you want to see all the highlights. If you're an enthusiastic walker like me, you could probably see everything in one day, provided that you don't go inside but simply admire everything from the outside as you go along.
For me, it was super fun putting this article together, because most of the time, you'll find me outside the city centre, exploring the more residential areas of Rome.
If you have a favourite tourist attraction or landmark in Rome, please let me know in the comments which one it is and why!
See you next time, my loves,
Juliette
