10 Best Things to Do and See in Rome
Exploring Rome on foot is one of the best ways to feel the city’s atmosphere, connect its landmark places and discover its neighbourhoods at a more natural pace.
In this guide, you will find the attractions not to miss when planning a walking route in Rome, with simple reference points.
To go further, you can also enjoy a private guided tour in Rome. It is a smoother way to connect places, understand details you might miss on your own and enjoy a more human, personal discovery adapted to your trip.
1. Trevi Fountain
The Trevi Fountain, in the heart of Rome, is one of Italy’s most famous fountains and a must-see stop when visiting the city. This Baroque monument impresses with its monumental façade, richly detailed sculptures, and the large basin that attracts visitors at all hours. It offers a spectacular setting where water, stone, and light create a highly photogenic scene. A lively and iconic landmark, it invites you to stroll, take in the view, and pause in the middle of Rome’s historic center.
2. Colosseum
The Colosseum, in the heart of Rome, is one of Italy’s most iconic landmarks and a must-see attraction for discovering Roman antiquity. Visiting this vast amphitheater, you can admire its monumental tiers, stacked arches, and the impressive engineering that once allowed it to host huge crowds. The site also offers a striking view of ancient architecture and the city’s urban fabric. It is an ideal place to understand the scale of Roman heritage and experience the unique atmosphere of the Italian capital.
3. Pantheon
In the heart of Rome, the Pantheon impresses with its monumental architecture and remarkably well-preserved condition. This famous ancient building, now a must-see for visitors, captivates with its vast rotunda, iconic dome, and oculus open to the sky, which fills the interior with ever-changing light. As you walk through it, you discover a solemn and harmonious space, where you can admire its grand proportions, ancient materials, and the unique atmosphere of a monument that has stood the test of time.
4. Piazza Navona
Piazza Navona is one of the liveliest and most iconic squares in Rome, Italy. With its elongated shape, it invites you to stroll past elegant façades, terrace cafés, and its always lively atmosphere. Here you can admire superb fountains, street performers, and beautiful views of the surrounding Baroque architecture. It is an ideal place to wander, watch the Roman hustle and bustle, and enjoy a historic setting in the heart of the city, just steps from many landmarks.
5. Roman Forum
The Roman Forum, in the heart of Rome, is one of Italy’s most iconic archaeological sites. Walking among its ruins, visitors can discover the remains of temples, basilicas, arches, and public squares that bear witness to the civic life of ancient Rome. The site offers a striking insight into the organization of the ancient city, where political, religious, and commercial life converged. Today, its columns, partially preserved walls, and views of the Palatine Hill make it a must-see for anyone wanting to understand the history of the city.
6. Piazza del Popolo
Piazza del Popolo is one of Rome’s great squares, appreciated for its vast open space and lively atmosphere. Located north of the historic center, it offers an ideal starting point for exploring the city on foot. Visitors notice its monumental layout, elegant façades, twin churches, and the presence of an ancient obelisk in the center. The square is lined with cafés, passages leading to shopping streets, and views that invite you to stroll, especially toward the Pincio Hill.
7. Saint Angel Castle
Castel Sant'Angelo, in Rome, is an iconic landmark located on the banks of the Tiber, not far from the Vatican. This site impresses with its massive circular fortress silhouette and its architecture blending several periods. On a visit, you can explore historic rooms, interior passageways, terraces with sweeping views over the city, and, depending on the route, areas linked to its defensive and residential past. It is a must-see attraction for understanding another side of Rome, where history, art, and panoramic views come together.
8. Villa Borghese
In Rome, Villa Borghese offers a vast green escape in the heart of the city, with gardens, shaded paths and views over the Roman rooftops. Visitors will find lawns, fountains, walking areas and several cultural venues, including renowned museums and galleries. It is a favorite spot to relax, walk, cycle or simply enjoy the calm away from the bustle of the city. Villa Borghese combines nature, art and leisure in an elegant setting popular with both visitors and locals.
9. Monument to Victor Emmanuel II
The Victor Emmanuel II Monument in Rome is a vast white marble complex overlooking Piazza Venezia. This iconic attraction draws visitors for its monumental architecture as much as for its sweeping stairways, columns, and terraces offering beautiful views over the city. It also features a memorial dedicated to Italian unity, with sculptures, reliefs, and a solemn atmosphere. Located in the heart of the capital, it is a must-see landmark on any visit to Rome.
10. Campo de’ Fiori
Campo de’ Fiori is a lively square in the heart of Rome, known for its vibrant atmosphere from morning to night. Here you will find a colorful market with fruits, vegetables, flowers and local products, set in a typically Roman backdrop surrounded by cafés, restaurants and historic facades. It is also a great place to observe daily life among locals and visitors alike, between shopping, relaxing on a terrace and strolling through the nearby streets. Its friendly atmosphere makes it a must-see stop on any walk through the Italian capital.
Antony M
During my travels, I looked for guides who spoke my language. This search turned out to be long and tedious. That is why I created MYTOGU (My Tourist Guide): a matching site between tourists and professional tourist guides.
