It would take you days, months, if not years, to see it all. Rome is art, history, culture, legends, colors; the itineraries to follow are many, but today we suggest four places that you just must visit!
Vatican City
Our tour starts at the St. Peter’s Basilica. It is impossible to not be charmed by the majestic colonnade, a 1600s work by Bernini, by the vastness of the church, and by the priceless works of art that it hosts. From the dome of the basilica, affectionately called Cupolone (“big dome”) by the locals, you can enjoy a breathtaking view of the city!
After a visit to the basilica, continue to the Vatican Museums. They are enormous, so for a shorter visit we recommend seeing the Pinacoteca, the Raphael Rooms, and obviously the Sistine Chapel and its wondrous frescos by Michelangelo.
Piazza Navona
Cross Ponte Sant’Angelo and take a walk in the squares and alleys nearby that have an authentic Roman character. Head towards Piazza Navona, one of the most famous squares in the city and a meeting point for locals and tourists alike. Without a doubt, you’ll be fascinated by the wonderful baroque buildings and the beautiful fountains.
According to a popular legend, the square represents the rivalry between sculptors Bernini and Borromini: one of the statues in Bernini’s Fontana dei Quattro Fiumi has its eyes covered, allegedly not to look at the façade of the Sant’Agnese in Agone church, designed by Borromini.
Colosseum and the Forum
The Flavian Amphitheatre, better known as Colosseum, is the symbol of Rome par excellence and one of the most awe-inducing monuments of the ancient city. Its name comes from the colossal bronze statue of Nero that was placed next to it in the II century AD.
Not far from the Colosseum lies the Arch of Constantine, the biggest triumphal arch of Roman times still standing. After a couple of pictures, head towards the Forum, one of the most famous and charming archeological sites in the world.
Piazza di Spagna
Elegance is undoubtedly the main characteristic of Piazza di Spagna: nestled among ochre buildings, the Barcaccia fountain, and the famous Spanish steps that lead to the Trinita’ dei Monti church, this square has a refined atmosphere reminiscent of the 1700s.
Some of the best-known Roman streets start from Piazza di Spagna: via Condotti, home to elegant and prestigious designer boutiques; via Margutta, which used to be a popular destination for artists; and via del Babuino, which connects Piazza di Spagna and Piazza del Popolo.