Visiting Rome: what to see and do ?

The capital of Italy and a true open-air museum, Rome is a fascinating city where every lane tells a story thousands of years old. From the Colosseum to the Vatican Museums, via lively trattorias and Baroque fountains, the Eternal City charms with its appeal, cultural richness and gastronomy. A stay in Rome is a journey through time between Roman antiquity, the Renaissance and la dolce vita.

What to visit in Rome?

It is impossible to visit Rome without starting with its iconic Colosseum, the ancient amphitheatre that hosted the famous gladiator fights. Right next to it, discover the Roman Forum and the Palatine Hill, the historic heart of ancient Rome.

Continue to the Trevi Fountain, a Baroque masterpiece where visitors toss a coin to make sure they return to Rome. Just a few steps away, admire the majestic Spanish Steps and their monumental staircase.

Don't miss the Pantheon, one of the best-preserved buildings from Roman times, then stroll through Piazza Navona, one of the most beautiful squares in the city.

Finally, devote at least one day to Vatican City, an independent state in the heart of Rome. Visit St Peter's Basilica, the Sistine Chapel with Michelangelo's frescoes, and the Vatican Museums, among the richest in the world.

What to visit in Rome? What to do during your stay?

• Taste Roman gastronomy: carbonara, cacio e pepe, supplì and tiramisu.
• Discover the bohemian district of Trastevere, with its cobbled lanes and authentic trattorias.
• Take a romantic walk to Castel Sant'Angelo and along the Tiber.
• Admire the sunset from the Pincio terrace or the Janiculum.
• Hire a bike or a scooter to explore the gardens of the Villa Borghese.
• Visit hidden churches such as San Clemente or Santa Maria in Trastevere, rich in history.
• Enter Rome's underground galleries or the catacombs for a glimpse of the Christian past.

What are the 10 must-sees in Rome?

Here are the 10 places and experiences not to miss during your stay in Rome:

1. 🏛 The Colosseum – The symbol of Rome, this ancient amphitheatre impresses with its size and history.
2. 🏺 The Roman Forum and Palatine Hill – The heart of ancient Rome, where history comes to life.
3. 🕍 St Peter's Basilica – One of the largest religious buildings in the world, a masterpiece of the Renaissance.
4. 🎨 The Sistine Chapel – Admire Michelangelo's frescoes at the Vatican, a unique moment.
5. ⛲️ The Trevi Fountain – Make a wish by tossing in a coin, as tradition has it.
6. 🏛 The Pantheon – An impressive ancient monument, still intact after nearly 2,000 years.
7. 🪟 Piazza Navona – One of the most beautiful Baroque squares in Europe, lively and full of charm.
8. 🧡 Trastevere – A bohemian, authentic and lively district, ideal for dinner or an evening stroll.
9. 🌅 The Pincio or Janiculum (Gianicolo) viewpoint – For a magical sunset over the rooftops of Rome.
10. 🖼 The Borghese Gallery – An exceptional museum housing works by Caravaggio, Bernini and Raphael, in the heart of a magnificent park.

FAQ Visiting Rome

What budget do you need for Rome?

Rome is an accessible destination depending on your travel style. Allow on average between €600 and €1,200 per person for an all-inclusive week. A meal in a trattoria costs between €15 and €25. The main visits (Colosseum, Vatican) require a budget of around €30 to €50 for combined tickets.

Which town should you visit near Rome?

An hour away by train, Tivoli is a perfect excursion to visit the Villa d'Este (gardens and fountains) and Hadrian's Villa, an imperial residence listed by UNESCO. Ostia Antica, an ancient Roman city, is also a fascinating archaeological site, accessible by metro.

What is the ideal length of time to visit Rome?

The ideal length of time to visit Rome depends on your pace and your tastes, but for a first visit, 4 to 5 days lets you make the most of the city without rushing. You will have time to explore the major historical sites (Colosseum, Forum, Vatican), wander through districts such as Trastevere or Monti, savour the local gastronomy and even take a short excursion (such as Tivoli or Ostia Antica).
If you love art or museums, a stay of 6 to 7 days will let you add the Borghese Gallery, the catacombs and quieter walks in the Roman gardens.

Is Rome worth it?

Yes, Rome is well worth the detour. A city like no other, it offers a concentrate of history, culture and architectural beauty. Whether you are passionate about art, love gastronomy or are simply curious, Rome offers you total immersion in Italian and European culture. Every street corner holds a surprise: a church, a fountain, a ruin or a trattoria.

What is the most beautiful part of Rome?

The beauty of Rome lies in its diversity. The Trastevere district is particularly charming with its colourful lanes and local atmosphere. For panoramas, the Aventine Hill with the Orange Garden (Giardino degli Aranci) and its view over the city is a peaceful place not to be missed. Finally, the historic centre, between the Pantheon and Piazza Navona, concentrates much of Rome's charm.

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Visiting Rome: official websites

• Rome Tourism: https://www.turismoroma.it/en
• Colosseum bookings: https://www.il-colosseo.it/en/index.php?
• Vatican Museums: https://www.museivaticani.va/content/museivaticani/en.html
• Rome Airport: https://www.adr.it/web/aeroporti-di-roma-en

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