Rome is one of my favourite European cities to visit, and I think the Logistics Manager would agree. It never disappoints. If I could offer one tip to any visitor to the city, it would be to ignore the bustling city noise around you, take your time, look around, and definitely look up. Nearly every corner of the city has something remarkable to admire. On that theme, here are my must-sees for this ancient and classic city…
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Visit the Vatican City
Technically, Vatican City is its own country, but no trip to Rome is complete without visiting St. Peter’s Basilica. If you want to explore the inside, be prepared for long queues, so pre-booking your tickets is a must. We opted for a ticket that included access to the Vatican Museum, the Sistine Chapel, and St. Peter’s Basilica. The sheer scale and history of the Vatican is astounding. You could easily spend a full day there, but we spent an afternoon, marvelling at the priceless artefacts and immense wealth on display. It’s a must-visit for any trip to Rome.
Wander Around the Colosseum
The Colosseum is one of Italy’s most iconic landmarks, and it’s a must-see when in Rome. On your visit, you can explore the inner grounds, climb to the upper levels, and even see beneath the main arena floor. Tickets are available at the entrance, but buying them online can save you time.
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See the Roman Forum
Home to some of Rome’s most important historic ruins, the Roman Forum was once the heart of the Roman Empire. Be sure to see the Temple of Vesta and the Temple of Saturn. Tickets to the Roman Forum are included with Colosseum admission, making it easy to visit both in one day. If you’re short on time, you can still see much of the Forum for free from Via dei Fori Imperiali, which offers lovely views.
Climb the Altare Della Patria
Nicknamed “The Wedding Cake” by locals, the Altare Della Patria is one of Rome’s grandest monuments, built to honour Victor Emmanuel. You can take a lift to the top for an incredible panoramic view of the city. The climb up the stairs is fun too if you prefer.
Explore the Pantheon
This historic Roman temple, now a church, is one of Rome’s most iconic buildings and my Logistics Manager’s favourite. Standing for over 2,000 years, the Pantheon’s dome is an architectural marvel. It used to be free to enter, but there’s now a small admission fee. It’s worth every cent to see the stunning interior.
Admire the Trevi Fountain
The Trevi Fountain is easily the city’s most famous fountain, built almost 250 years ago. Although it’s often crowded, it’s still worth the visit. Toss a coin in for good luck, and try to visit early in the morning or late at night for a quieter experience.
Relax at Piazza Navona
One of Rome’s prettiest piazzas, Piazza Navona is the perfect place to relax and enjoy a refreshment. However, food prices can be inflated here, so I recommend sticking to drinks and finding somewhere less touristy for meals. The piazza itself, though, is stunning and should be on your list of stops.
Climb the Spanish Steps
Although the Spanish Steps may not be the most exciting attraction in Rome, it’s still a famous one. It’s easy to visit if you’re already in the city centre, and it’s just a short walk from the Trevi Fountain.
Enjoy the Views at Castel Sant’Angelo
Originally known as the Mausoleum of Hadrian, Castel Sant’Angelo got its name in 590 AD when legend says the Archangel Michael appeared atop the castle, ending a plague in Rome. The rooftop terrace offers one of the best panoramic views of the city, and there are a couple of other viewpoints, as well as a coffee shop, within the castle.
People-Watch at Piazza del Popolo
Piazza del Popolo is another beautiful Roman square, surrounded by stunning architecture and sculptures. It’s the historic centre of the city, where three major roads intersect. It’s also a great spot to sit at a café and enjoy some people-watching.
Piazza del Popolo
Visit the Galleria Borghese
The Galleria Borghese is a favourite among travellers, with its blend of villa and museum, plus beautiful gardens. The art collection, originally commissioned by Cardinal Scipione Borghese in the 17th century, makes this one of the premier art galleries in Rome. Don’t miss the extravagant rooms filled with famous works, but also take time to explore the gardens.
Learn the History of the Jewish Ghetto
Rome’s Jewish Ghetto, located between the Tiber River and Campo de’ Fiori, has a rich and sometimes difficult history. Created by papal edict in 1555, it was walled off from the city until 1888, with strict laws governing Jewish life. Visit the Jewish Museum of Rome, located at the Great Synagogue, to learn more. A guided tour of the synagogue is included with museum admission.
Explore Trastevere
The Trastevere neighbourhood is one of our favourite spots to spend an evening. It’s bohemian and full of traditional pubs, artisan shops, and great places to eat. We discovered it on our first visit and return every time we’re in Rome. The area thrives with a mix of locals and visitors, and is home to the stunning Piazza Santa Maria and its mosaic-filled church. It’s a great place to unwind and enjoy some authentic Roman charm. It’s just a 30-minute walk from the city centre, and you can cross the Tiber River via Rome’s oldest Roman bridge, the Ponte Fabricio.
Accommodation
Rome has many top-rated hotels, boutique stays, and self-catering options, but my personal recommendation is the Hotel San Anselmo. Located in the quiet Aventino neighbourhood, this 19th-century villa offers elegant rooms and a garden where breakfast and drinks are served. The area is peaceful, yet close to unique attractions like the Aventine Keyhole, which offers a perfectly framed view of St. Peter’s Basilica. Nearby is also the beautiful Giardino degli Aranci, a public garden with panoramic views of the city. We’ve enjoyed every stay here and highly recommend it.
Eating Out
One of the best things about Rome is the food. You’ll find plenty of great dining options, and I recommend checking out the Campo de’ Fiori area. During the day, it’s a lively market, and at night, it transforms into a vibrant dining scene.
On a personal note, I have two specific restaurants to recommend. The first is Zerosettantcinque, a great spot overlooking the Circo Massimo to relax with a drink and local food. The second is Ristorante La Travernetta 48, located near the Pantheon. It serves classic Roman dishes, and it’s worth booking ahead as it gets busy in the evenings.
To finish, I’ll simply say that Rome is a city we never tire of visiting. It’s a classic destination with endless wonders to explore. I hope you’ve enjoyed this guide. For more travel tips and recommendations, be sure to follow this page. Thank you!