Rome is undoubtedly an Italian masterpiece packed with endless wonders, boasting everything from historic ruins to breathtaking art and world's finest museums to exquisite cafes. The truth is that Rome offers so many fantastic sights and attractions that travelers find it difficult to fit everything in their tour itinerary. Top attractions are surely some of those ancient Roman ruins and Gothic chapels. However, the city is also known for its modern monuments and quaint shopping markets. Use this guide to shortlist top must-see tourist attractions in Rome while holidaying in this Italian eternal city.
- The Colosseum
Start your Roman architecture tour with a trip to the Colosseum. This historic monument will give you a hint of ancient Roman culture, when the Romans were known for their bravery, merciless power, and eternal empire. Colosseum is indeed the most thrilling ancient ruin in this beautiful city. Take a half-day or full-day self-guided tour to explore this unique site, its history, and the stories about the deadly fights between the gladiators and ferocious beasts, held right here. Be ready to face atrocious lines while visiting the Colosseum. Best Time: During opening hours Cost: 2 to 12 Eruos
- The Pantheon
Emperor Hadrian built the famous Roman Pantheon. Take your time to explore this temple of all the gods, dating back to the 7th century. Walk inside the Pantheon and see the marvelous dome, which is the largest unreinforced dome in the world. Check out the surrounding piazza located just outside the Pantheon. Best Time: Evenings Cost: Free
- The Sistine Chapel
Your Roman holidays cannot be complete without visiting the Vatican City. If you are here for a tour, check out the world-famous Sistine Chapel nestled right inside the Pope's residence. This is the place where cardinals gather and elect a new pope. Take the Vatican Museum entrance to reach the Sistine Chapel. The chapel is home to some breathtaking and original paintings of Michelangelo. The ceiling fresco is painted by this world famous Italian painter between 1508 and 1512. Even the 'Last Judgment' fresco painted on the altar wall of the chapel is another awe-inspiring creation by this iconic painter. Best Time: Later in the day, before the closing hours Cost: 4 to 16 Euros
- Palatine Hill
For some memorable views and awesome photography, stop by the Palatine Hill in Rome. This setting features everything from lush garden with towering trees to majestic ruins. Explore the archeological artifacts at the Museo Palatino inside the residence of Augustana at Domus Augustana. Best Time: Any time of the day Cost: Free with Rome Card and Colosseum ticket
- St Peter’s Basilica
Don’t forget to check out the world-famous St Peter’s Basilica while touring the Vatican City. Out of all astounding churches that Rome has to offer, the St Peter’s Basilica is the most unique of them all. This huge church features rich architecture, spectacular decor, and amazing monuments dating back to many centuries long ago. This is indeed the place of artistic genius. Expect to find huge lines here even during the late visiting hours. Remember to dress appropriately before entering this holy church. Best Time: Early in the morning Cost: Free with Vatican City ticket.
- Piazza Navona
Romans surely loved athletic competitions, chariot races, brutal fights, and finest contests. Piazza Navona is one of those sites where such contests and competitions used to take place during the early first century. Today, this historic site is lined with some of the best cafes in the city that offer delicious gelatos, coffee, and sweet treats. Photography enthusiasts shouldn’t miss clicking a few shots in front of the three lavish Baroque fountains at Piazza Navona. Best Time: Any time of the day. Cost: free.
- Trajan’s Market
Don’t just get stuck by the ancient ruin tours during your Rome holidays. Hit the world’s oldest shopping mall at the Trajan’s Market to fulfill your shopping needs. Although the place is not home to designer boutiques or specialty stores, you will surely love exploring the quaint shops, art and craft stalls, and souvenir stores within this ancient multilevel structure in Rome. Best Time: Any day except on Mondays Cost: Free.
