Best places to visit in Rome
Discover the best places to visit in Rome
Italy,Rome
If you are planning to travel to Italy, you need to stop by Florence. Why? Backpacking to Florence is your chance to experience the real Italian atmosphere. You get to admire world-renowned art, indulge in mouth-watering cuisine, and stroll through charming streets – all without breaking the bank. Plus, who wouldn’t want to try to catch a glimpse of David’s butt or lose themselves in the maze of winding streets while savoring the best gelato in town? So grab your backpack, hop on a train, and get ready to fall head over heels for Firenze!
1. The Colosseum
Build in 70-80 AD the Colosseum stand proudly as an enduring symbol of ancient Rome’s grandeur and power. This colossal amphitheater, which i now one of the modern sever wonders of the world, showcases remarkable engineering and architectural prowess. Step inside its weathered walls and be transported to a time of spectacles and legendary battles. Imagine the roars of the crowds and the clash of swords as gladiators fought for their lives on the blood-stained sands. Too graphic? Sorry. Honestly, as you explore its awe-inspiring tiers and corridors, marvel at the intricate details that once adorned this mighty structure. Despite centuries of history and countless stories etched within its stone, the Colosseum continues to captivate visitors, serving as a timeless testament to the magnificence of ancient Rome.
Rome’s Iconic Ancient Amphitheater is definitely one of the best places to see in Rome. Step back in time and witness the grandeur of gladiatorial contests in this magnificent architectural marvel.
The iconic amphitheaters where gladiatorial contest took place!
Everything you should know before visiting the Colosseum
How much does it cost?
Standard tickets usually include the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill. If you are on a budget, you can easily walk around and admire the beauty of the Colosseum from the outside.
- €16 for adults (18-25 years old)
- €2 for EU citizens aged 18-25
- and free entry for EU citizens under 18 or over 65.
How to get there?
If you are staying in the central part of Rome, you can walk to the Colosseum, especially if you are in the Colosseo, Monti, or Roman Forum neighborhoods. It's a great way to enjoy the city's streets and soak up the atmosphere. Honestly, if you are able to and the conditions are nice, you should definitely consider walking. I found that Rome is a very nice city to walk around, you are always just one corner away from some amazing gem, whether its a bar, thrift shop or one of Rome's many amazing architectural buildings, walking allows you to really feel the city vibe.
Rome's public transportation system is pretty good. You can take the metro Line B (blue line) and get off at the Colosseo station, which is located right next to the Colosseum. Or you can also take buses that stop near the Colosseum, such as bus lines 75, 81, 85, and 87.
Taxis are readily available in Rome, and you can easily hail one to take you directly to the Colosseum. Additionally, ride-sharing services like Uber or Lyft are also available in the city. However, I would definitely not recommend it if you are on a budget because it can get pretty expensive and most of the time not as fast as public transportation or walking.
If you prefer a guided experience, many tour companies offer guided tours that include transportation to and from the Colosseum. These tours often provide additional insights and skip-the-line access.
You should know that there are limited tickets to visit the Colosseum, and it sells out really quickly. So I would highly advise you to buy your ticket in advance if you are planning to visit it.
2. Roman Forum
The Roman Forum, also known as the Forum Romanum, is an ancient site located in the heart of Rome. Once the bustling center of political, social, and commercial life in ancient Rome, it now stands as a mesmerizing archaeological complex, offering a glimpse into the city’s rich history. The Forum features a collection of ancient structures, temples, basilicas, and monuments that once adorned this vibrant public square.
The ancient city center, featuring ruins of temples, government buildings, and markets.
Among the notable highlights are the Temple of Saturn, dedicated to the Roman god of agriculture and wealth, and the Arch of Septimius Severus, a triumphal arch commemorating the emperor’s victories. The Curia Julia, the Senate House, stands as a symbol of Roman governance, while the Temple of Vesta, dedicated to the goddess of the hearth, carries an air of mystique.
Everything you should know before visiting the Roman Forum
How much does it cost?
Standard ticket :
- €16 for adults (18-25 years old)
- €2 for EU citizens aged 18-25,
- and free entry for EU citizens under 18 or over 65.
Like I have mentioned earlier, standard tickets for the Roman Forum are usually combined with entrance for the Colosseum, and Palatine Hill. If you are on a budget, there are different points of view around the Roman Forum, where you can admire part of this historical landmark.
How to get there?
If you are in the central part of Rome, it's possible to walk to the Roman Forum, especially if you are in the Colosseo, Monti, or Roman Forum neighborhoods. It's a great way to explore the city and enjoy the surrounding historic streets. This is by far my favorite option to get around in Rome, especially if the weather is on your side.
Rome's public transportation system is well-connected and really easy to use. You can take the metro Line B (blue line) and get off at the Colosseo station, which is located near the Roman Forum. From there, it's a short walk to the entrance. There are several bus lines that stop near the Roman Forum, such as bus lines 75, 81, 85, and 87. Check the local bus schedules and routes to find the most convenient option based on your location.
While I would not recommend using taxi or ride-sharing if you are in Rome, especially if you are on a budget you should know that these are also available. You can easily hail a Taxi to take you directly to the Roman Forum. Ride-sharing services like Uber or Lyft are also available in the city.
If you prefer a guided experience, many tour companies offer guided tours that include transportation to and from the Roman Forum. These tours often provide additional insights and skip-the-line access.
To avoid long queues, I would highly recommend booking tickets in advance online.
3. Palatine Hill
Palatine Hill is located in the center of Rome, and is one of the seven hills upon which the city was built. This historic site holds immense significance as it is believed to be the birthplace of Rome itself. Exploring the Palatine Hill offers visitors a chance to delve into the origins of the ancient city and marvel at its architectural remnants. Within the hill’s grounds of the Palatine Museum, you can find the rich collection of ancient artifacts, including sculptures, mosaics, and imperial furnishings. These exhibits offer further insights into the opulence and grandeur of ancient Rome.
One of Rome's seven hills, known for its archaeological sites and panoramic views.
Beyond its archaeological treasures, the Palatine Hill is a great place if you want to have a peaceful view from the bustling city below and enjoy a little bit of nature while you walk past the shaded groves.
Everything you should know before visiting the Roman Forum
How much does it cost?
Standard ticket :
- €16 for adults (18-25 years old)
- €2 for EU citizens aged 18-25,
- and free entry for EU citizens under 18 or over 65.
Like I have mentioned earlier, standard tickets for the Palatine Hill are usually combined with entrance for the Colosseum, and Palatine Hill. If you are on a budget, there are different points of view around the Roman Forum, where you can admire part of this historical landmark.
How to get there?
If you are in the central part of Rome, it's possible to walk to Palatine Hill, especially if you are in the Colosseo, Monti, or Roman Forum neighborhoods. The hill is located in close proximity to the Colosseum and the Roman Forum, making it easily accessible on foot.
Rome's public transportation system is well-connected. You can take the metro Line B (blue line) and get off at the Colosseo station, which is located near the entrance to Palatine Hill. From there, it's a short walk to the hill's entrance. Several bus lines stop near the Colosseum, which is adjacent to Palatine Hill. Bus lines 75, 81, 85, and 87 are a few examples. Check the local bus schedules and routes to find the most convenient option based on your location.
Taxis are readily available in Rome, and you can easily hail one to take you directly to the Palatine Hill. Ride-sharing services like Uber or Lyft are also available in the city.
Many tour companies offer guided tours that include transportation to and from the Palatine Hill. These tours often provide additional insights and skip-the-line access, allowing for a seamless and informative visit.
4. Pantheon
The Pantheon, an architectural marvel of ancient Rome, which stands as an evidence of the originality and skill of the Roman Empire. The breathtaking structure, located in the heart of Rome, is renowned for its remarkable dome and harmonious proportions. One of the most remarkable aspects of the Pantheon is its enduring architectural legacy, which has inspired many other architectural projects throughout history.
From Michelangelo’s dome of St. Peter’s Basilica to the Capitol building in Washington, D.C., the influence of the Pantheon’s architectural principles can be seen far and wide.
Everything you should know before visiting the Pantheon
H3: How much does it cost?
The Pantheon is open to the public free of charge, allowing visitors to admire its architectural splendor and explore its interior without any admission cost. If you are on a budget this is definitely something you can add on your list!
How to get to the Pantheon?
If you are in the central part of Rome, or not, it is often best to explore the city on foot. The Pantheon is located in the heart of Rome, making it easily reachable by walking from many popular areas and attractions.Walking is super easy and safe to do, and it also always you to discover many other cool things (like this amazing tiramisu place near the pantheon called Mr. 100 Tiramisù, please go)
You can take the bus to Largo di Torre Argentina, which is a short walk from the Pantheon. Bus lines 30, 70, 81, and 87 stop near the Pantheon. You can also take the metro Line B (blue line) and get off at the Colosseo station, then walk to the Pantheon.
You can definitely take a cab to take you directly to the pantheon since taxis are readily available in Rome. However, I would highly not recommend it as it is located in the historical center of Rome and traffic can be pretty heavy and therefore increase the cost. Ride-sharing services like Uber or Lyft are also available in the city, but again I would not recommend it.
If you prefer a guided experience, many tour companies offer walking tours that include visits to the Pantheon and other nearby attractions. These tours often provide historical insights and context to enhance your visit. However, if you are on a budget, these tours can be expensive, if you are really tight and you are ok with visiting most historical landmarks from outside. On the other hand, if you really want to visit the most of Rome’s rich historical landmarks, guided tours can definitely be something to look into as they offer many benefit that can lower your general cost.
5. Vatican City
Vatican City, officially known as the Vatican City State, is a sovereign city-state enclaved within Rome, Italy. It is the spiritual and administrative headquarters of the Roman Catholic Church and home to the Pope. Despite being the smallest internationally recognized independent state in the world, Vatican City holds immense cultural, historical, and religious significance.
The Vatican City is not only an important cultural, historical and religious symbol, it is also a place where you can admire wonderful attractions such as the St. Peter’s Basilica and its square, the Vatican Museums and its famous Chapel Sistine, and many other beautiful architectural wonders.
Explore St. Peter's Basilica, Vatican Museums, and the Sistine Chapel.
Everything you should know before visiting the Vatican
How much does it cost?
The Entry to St. Peter’s Basilica is free. However, you should know that there may be charges for optional activities such as climbing the dome or visiting the Vatican Grottoes. The Vatican Museums on the other hand have an admission fee. The ticket prices for the Vatican Museums and the Sistine Chapel are €17 for adults (18 years and older), €8 for children and adolescents aged 6-18, students up to 25 years old with a valid student ID, and senior citizens over 65 years old, while Children under 6 years old enjoy free entrance.
You should definitely think about booking your ticket in advance cause the Vatican Museums and the Sistine Chapel are very popular. If you are on a budget, you can also consider going during Sundays or religious holidays when entry to the Vatican Museums is usually free. Just keep in mind it might be worth getting up early, considering these days are usually pretty crowded.
How to get there?
If you are in the central part of Rome, it is possible to reach Vatican City on foot. The walk from popular areas such as the historic center or Trastevere is enjoyable and allows you to take in the sights along the way.
Rome's public transportation system offers convenient options to reach Vatican City. You can take the metro Line A (red line) and get off at the Ottaviano-S. Pietro or Cipro stations, both of which are close to the Vatican. From there, it's a short walk to the entrance.
Several bus lines connect various parts of Rome to Vatican City. Bus lines 64, 40, 46, and 62 are some examples that stop near the Vatican. Check the local bus schedules and routes to find the most convenient option based on your location.
Taxis are readily available in Rome, and you can easily hail one to take you directly to Vatican City. Ride-sharing services like Uber or Lyft are also available in the city.
Security Check & Dress Code
Once you arrive at Vatican City, be prepared for security checks, as they are in place for the safety of visitors. Additionally, dress modestly, as there are strict dress codes enforced in St. Peter’s Basilica and other religious sites within Vatican City.
How to attend a papal audience?
Once you arrive at Vatican City, be prepared for security checks, as they are in place for the safety of visitors. Additionally, dress modestly, as there are strict dress codes enforced in St. Peter’s Basilica and other religious sites within Vatican City.
First, you'll need to check the official Vatican website or other reliable sources for the most up-to-date information on the papal audience schedule. Note that the schedule can change, so it's essential to confirm the date and time of the audience you wish to attend.
In most cases, you'll need a ticket to attend a papal audience. Tickets are typically free but must be requested in advance. You can request tickets through your local diocese or through the Vatican's official website, depending on the event and the audience you plan to attend.
Make sure to arrive well-prepared for the experience. Dress modestly and respectfully, as the Vatican has a dress code in place for those attending papal events. This usually includes covering shoulders and knees, and not wearing hats inside.
Arrive at the location well in advance, as audiences can be very crowded. There are typically two main locations for papal audiences: St. Peter's Square and the Vatican's Audience Hall. Make sure you know where the audience will take place and plan your arrival accordingly.
6. Trevi Fountain
The Trevi Fountain, located in the heart of Rome, is one of the most famous and enchanting fountains in the world. This iconic Baroque masterpiece stands as a symbol of grandeur, beauty, and the timeless allure of Rome. The Trevi Fountain is also at the heart of one of the most well-known traditions is the act of tossing a coin into the fountain over one’s shoulder. According to legend, doing so ensures a return to Rome in the future. As a result, the fountain is often filled with people making wishes and hoping to secure their connection with the Eternal City. You should definitely stop at the fountain, and who knows maybe you’ll be tempted to walk in the path of Lizzie Mcguire or Kristen bell and throw a coin in the fountain with hopes to find love.
A stunning Baroque fountain known for its coin-throwing tradition.
Everything you should know before visiting the Trevi Fountain
When to go?
Early in the morning is definitely the best time to go if you don’t want to be surrounded by people. This fountain is very popular and you should definitely consider pulling a late nighter or waking up with the sun. Honestly, this is the best option if you want to enjoy the fountain without a crowd.
How to get there?
If you are in the central part of Rome, it is often best to explore the city on foot. The Trevi Fountain is located in the Trevi neighborhood, not far from other popular attractions such as the Spanish Steps and the Pantheon. You can easily reach the fountain by walking from many areas in the historic center.
You can take the metro Line A (red line) and get off at the Barberini - Fontana di Trevi station. From there, it's a short walk to the Trevi Fountain. Bus lines 52, 53, 62, 63, 71, 83, 85, 160, and 492 also have stops near the fountain. Check the local transportation schedules and routes to find the most convenient option based on your location.
You can easily take a taxi or a ride-sharing service like Uber to bring you directly to the Trevi Fountain, however I do not recommend it.
7. Need More?
If you are planning to be in Rome for more than a few days, here’s an extended list of the best places to visit in Rome!
A fortress located on the banks of the Tiber River, offering great views of the city.
A charming neighborhood known for its narrow streets, restaurants, and nightlife.
A famous staircase leading to the Trinità dei Monti church.
A lively square with beautiful fountains, cafes, and street performers.
A sprawling park with gardens, museums, and a lake.
The world's oldest public museums, housing a vast collection of art and artifacts.
A large square with an Egyptian obelisk and beautiful churches.
A stunning church with ornate interiors and mosaics.
An ancient Roman road lined with tombs and archaeological sites.
The ruins of a massive public bathing complex from ancient Rome.
A vibrant square with a daily open-air market.
A carved marble mask famous for its role in the movie "Roman Holiday."
An art gallery housing a remarkable collection of sculptures and paintings.
One of Rome's major basilicas, housing the Pope's official seat.
8. On a budget?
Tips to enjoy your time in Rome if you are on a budget
Rome is a pretty big city, and like all big cities it can easily become really expensive, so here’s a few tips to save a few bucks while enjoying this amazing city.
Get around the city
Walking and public transportation are the way to go in Rome. Not only is Rome a very nice city to walk around, but it is always very easy and safe to do so (just make sure to watch for cars when crossing pedestrian paths, some people have not fully grasped the concept of priority passage). I also found that walking around Rome is part of the experience as you always stumble upon something wonderful, without expecting it. Getting lost in Rome’s streets is definitely something I really enjoyed doing while I was there.
Accomodation
Accommodation wise, hostels are definitely the way to go, especially if you are traveling solo. You can find affordable hostels that are well located within the city and without breaking all your budget. Airbnbs and hotels are often really expensive, especially as you get closer from the center. You can also look at couchsurfing, especially if you want to enjoy Rome from a local perspective, it is definitely something I really enjoyed doing in the places I visited.
Here’s our few suggestions of affordable and nicely rated hostel:
Food
Food wise, don’t worry Rome is filled with many tiny street food places that are not expensive and crazy delicious.
Here’s a few suggestions for quick stop if you are hungry
If you want more suggestions, take a look at our blog post “Where to eat in Rome”!
Buy your ticket in advance
This is definitely something you should take very seriously. I met so many people that waited too long to buy their tickets and a few days before everything was sold out. Especially if you are planning to go during the weekend, Rome is a city that is very popular and is always full of people. So if you really want to visit something, book your ticket at least a week before!
More tips
If you are on a budget or you did not manage to get tickets to visit the must-see, don’t worry your trip is not ruined. Here’s a few options you can look at if you want to enjoy Rome’s cultural and historical experience without having to pay for entrance tickets.
You can easily find podcasts or spotify audibles that can give you some historical facts about most of the historical sites.
You can also find cheap walking tours that will give you interesting and cool facts about the city. If you are planning to visit any of the big archeological sites, I would highly suggest going either by the end of the day around 15h or at the opening.
Guided tours are also another option if you want to visit multiple monuments in Rome and don’t want to wait in line. Most tours usually enter without waiting, which can be a good option if you want to visit these places.
Want more informations? Please feel free to reach out or check out my other blog posts!
Marie-Pier Allard
Traveller by day, blog writer by night
