Roma’s Top 20
A selection of Rome’s most visited and celebrated landmarks. This Top 20 chart is curated based on historical significance, visitor numbers, and enduring popularity—defining the essence of the Eternal City.
Colosseum
Colosseo is the Heart of Ancient Rome | The most visited site in Italy, drawing over 12 million visitors annually | Walking through the Colosseum’s arena and the ruins of the Forum leaves visitors in awe, showcasing the grandeur and millennia-old history of Rome.
Special Notes: A must-visit for history lovers. Arrive early or book tickets in advance to avoid long lines.
Pantheon
One of the Best-Preserved Ancient Monuments | Its perfect dome and open oculus create a mystical atmosphere | Consistently ranked among the most breathtaking places in Rome.
Special Notes: Free entry, but expect large crowds. Best visited early in the morning or late in the evening.
St. Peter's Basilica
La Basilica di San Pietro is a Masterpiece of Art and Spirituality | Michelangelo’s dome, Bernini’s colonnades, and breathtaking interiors make it a world icon | Over 10 million visitors annually call it “an experience worth the trip alone.”
Special Notes: Entry is free, but there is a fee to climb the dome. Modest dress is required.
Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel
I Musei Vaticani and the Cappella Sistina are Home to One of the Greatest Art Collections | Over 6 million visitors per year come to see masterpieces like the Raphael Rooms and Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel | An overwhelming yet unforgettable experience
Special Notes: Book skip-the-line tickets in advance. Closed on Sundays except the last Sunday of each month (free entry).
Trevi Fountain
The Fontana di Trevi is one of Rome’s Most Romantic Spot | Over 3.5 million visitors toss coins into the fountain yearly | A cinematic and magical experience, especially at night.
Special Notes: Arrive early or late to avoid crowds. Tradition says throwing a coin ensures your return to Rome.
Spanish Steps (Trinità dei Monti)
The Scalinata di Piazza di Spagna is one of Rome’s Most Iconic Locations | A lively meeting point where visitors can soak in the city’s charm | Always buzzing with tourists from around the world.
Special Notes: Sitting on the steps is no longer allowed. The area is best enjoyed in the morning or evening.
Piazza Navona
The Quintessential Baroque Piazza | Bernini’s fountains and Sant’Agnese Church create an unforgettable setting | A top destination for both history and leisure.
Special Notes: A great spot for a gelato or aperitivo. Street performers and artists add to the lively atmosphere.
Trastevere
One of The Most Authentic Roman Neighborhood | Loved for its narrow streets, vibrant nightlife, and traditional trattorias |
Special Notes: Perfect for an evening stroll and dinner. Expect a lively atmosphere, especially on weekends.
Castel Sant'Angelo
A Fortress of History and Legends | Originally Emperor Hadrian’s mausoleum, later transformed into a papal stronghold | Offers stunning views of Rome from the top.
Special Notes: Less crowded than other major sites. Ideal for history enthusiasts and photographers.
Villa Borghese & Galleria Borghese
Rome’s Green Oasis and an Artistic Treasure | The Borghese Gallery houses masterpieces by Bernini, Caravaggio, and Raphael | The surrounding park is perfect for kids, relaxation and outdoor activities.
Special Notes: Gallery visits require reservations. Bike rentals, boat rentals on the lake, a cute cinema for kids in the park and other kids entertainaments.
Capitoline Museums
The Musei Capitolini are the World’s Oldest Public Museum | Home to iconic statues like the Capitoline Wolf and Marcus Aurelius | A must-visit for archaeology and history lovers.
Special Notes: Less crowded than the Vatican Museums. Offers a great rooftop view of Rome.
Alter of the Fatherland (Vittoriano)
L'Altare della Patria is A Monument to Italy’s Unification | Recognizable for its grand white marble structure | The terrace provides one of the best panoramic views of the city.
Special Notes: Elevator access to the terrace is available for a fee. Entry to the monument itself is free.
Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore
A Stunning Blend of Ancient and Baroque Art | One of Rome’s four papal basilicas, known for its golden mosaics and relics | A hidden gem among Rome’s religious sites.
Special Notes: Less crowded than St. Peter’s Basilica but impressive.
Piazza del Popolo
A Historic Gateway to Rome | Features twin churches and an ancient Egyptian obelisk | The nearby Pincio Terrace offers spectacular city views.
Special Notes: A great starting point for a walk along Via del Corso or up to Villa Borghese.
Baths of Caracalla
Le Terme di Caracalla is One of Rome’s Largest Ancient Bath Complexes | A site of grand imperial architecture and impressive ruins | A peaceful, less crowded alternative to the Roman Forum.
Special Notes: Open-air concerts are sometimes held here in summer.
Basilica of St. John Lateran
La Basilica di San Giovanni in Laterano is The Mother of All Churches | The official cathedral of Rome, older than St. Peter’s Basilica | A stunning example of religious grandeur.
Special Notes: Free entry. The nearby Holy Stairs are a significant pilgrimage site.
Campo de’ Fiori
A Market by Day, a Social Hub by Night | One of Rome’s liveliest squares | Features a daily market and a buzzing nightlife scene.
Special Notes: A great spot for people-watching, but be mindful of touristy restaurants.
Bocca della Verità
Rome’s Legendary Stone Face | Visitors line up daily to test the myth—place your hand in its mouth and see if you dare | A cultural icon famous worldwide.
Special Notes: Located near the Tiber Island and Circus Maximus, making it easy to visit along a walking route.
Palatine Hill, Roman Forum & Domus Aurea
In the heart of Rome lies the incredible Parco Archeologico del Colosseo, encompassing the Palatine Hill, the Roman Forum, and the Domus Aurea | The Political and Imperial Center of Ancient Rome | A vast archaeological site where history comes alive through temples, palaces, and Emperor Nero’s legendary golden palace.
Special Notes: There are no words to truly capture the magnificence and scale of this archaeological park. A combined ticket grants access to all three sites. Guided tours are highly recommended to fully appreciate its historical significance.
Circus Maximus
Il Circo Massimo is one of Rome's greatest ancient stadium | where chariot races once thrilled 250,000 spectators.
Special Notes: Best appreciated from the elevated ends; excellent photo opportunities of the Palatine Hill; It was the set of the film Ben Hur; hosts major public events.
