Top 5 Tourist Attractions in Rome
Rome, often called the “Eternal City” and the “Capital of the World,” is one of the most famous cities in Europe and beyond. They say all roads lead to Rome, so visiting at least once in a lifetime is a must. But where should you start? If it’s your first time, make sure to check out the most important landmarks that define the city. Discover the top five must-see attractions in Rome and the best way to explore the “Capital of the World.”
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The Pantheon
The name of this monument comes from Greek and means “a place dedicated to all gods.” Founded in 125 AD by Emperor Hadrian and originally dedicated to planetary deities and the emperor himself, it was converted into a Catholic church in 609 AD under the name of the Basilica of St. Mary and the Martyrs. This religious function likely saved it from destruction, unlike many other ancient temples. The Pantheon is one of the best-preserved buildings from ancient Rome, and its chapels house today the tombs of notable figures such as King Umberto I, Queen Margherita, King Victor Emmanuel II, and the artist Raphael.
Piazza Venezia
Located at the foot of the Capitoline Hill—Rome’s most famous hill—Piazza Venezia is home to several significant landmarks:
- Palazzo Venezia – A Renaissance palace that served as a papal residence until the mid-16th century. In the early 20th century, Benito Mussolini made it his headquarters, delivering speeches from its balcony. Today, the palace houses a museum with a collection amassed by Pope Paul II.
- Basilica of St. Mark the Evangelist – One of the oldest churches in Rome, built in the 4th century and now holding the status of a minor basilica. It stands near Piazza Venezia, seamlessly connected to the Palazzo Venezia’s façade.
- The Victor Emmanuel II Monument (Vittoriano) – A grand neoclassical monument honoring King Victor Emmanuel II, a key figure in the unification of Italy. Unveiled in 1911, it later became home to the Central Museum of Italian Unification. The monument also features a panoramic terrace and the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. Across from it stands the Palazzo Bonaparte.
- An Insurance Company Building – Located on the opposite side of the square, is a place where Michelangelo lived and died. Its architectural style was inspired by Palazzo Venezia.
The Roman Forum
The Roman Forum is the city’s oldest public square, surrounded by six of Rome’s seven hills: the Capitoline, Palatine, Caelian, Esquiline, Viminal, and Quirinal. It was the political, religious, and social heart of ancient Rome, where the most important events took place. The Forum was heavily damaged during the Visigoth sack of Rome in 410 AD, with further destruction likely caused by an earthquake in 851 AD. Over time, it became a quarry and later a cattle market. Today, only the ruins of its once-grand place remain, including the Arch of Titus and the Arch of Septimius Severus.
The Colosseum
The Colosseum, also known as the Flavian Amphitheater, was inaugurated in 80 AD and is one of Rome’s most recognizable symbols. Featured on countless postcards, this iconic structure once hosted gladiator battles, naval re-enactments (naumachiae), and wild animal hunts. According to tradition, early Christians were martyred here, which is commemorated by a cross inside the amphitheater. Since the mid-18th century, the Colosseum has been recognized as a site of Christian martyrdom.
Trevi Fountain
No trip to Rome is complete without tossing a coin into the Trevi Fountain! According to tradition, throwing a coin with your right hand over your left shoulder ensures your return to the city. Tossing two or three coins is said to bring love or even marriage. Many wonder what happens to the money thrown into the fountain—it is collected and donated to Caritas to support charitable causes. The fountain itself dates back to the 18th century, with water supplied by an aqueduct originally built in 19 BC! The central figures of the fountain include the river god Oceanus and two Tritons symbolizing Castor and Pollux.
How to Explore Rome?
Sightseeing in Rome isn’t just about snapping pictures at famous landmarks—it’s also a deep dive into history! If you want to truly understand the stories behind Rome’s most famous sites, make sure you join a Walkative tour! These free walking tours operate on a “pay what you wish” basis, meaning there’s no fixed price—you decide how much the guide’s knowledge and effort are worth at the end of the tour. If you’re planning a trip to the Italian capital and want to see its highlights without getting lost in its maze-like streets, a Walkative! free tour is exactly what you need!