Rome, the Eternal City, is a destination that enchants and inspires travelers from every corner of the globe. With over two thousand years of history, this metropolis is a true open-air museum, where every corner tells stories of a glorious past and a vibrant present.
In this article, we will explore 10 must-visit places that capture the essence of Rome. These are not just tourist attractions but genuine cultural symbols that represent the heart and soul of the city. 

Well, duh. The Colosseum is the largest amphitheater ever built and it’s the symbol of Rome, and maybe Italy itself. 

Completed in 80 AD under Emperor Titus, it could hold up to 80,000 spectators watching gladiatorial fights, animal hunts, and ancient sports. Today, it stands at the center of the city, colossal and majestic, witnessing the glory and history of ancient Rome.

You can walk around the externals of the Colosseum for free, but you will need a ticket to enter the structure and visit it... and let us say, it’s totally worth it. If you travel with one of Play Italy’s packages, tickets will be already included and you can access stress-free. The internal design features intricate complex system of vaults and arches, other than installations that narrate the Colosseum’s history. But words are not enough, you really need to be engulfed in its atmosphere.  

The Roman Forum is what remains of ancient Roman life. In this site, you can walk through the ruins of ancient Rome, its streets, its squares, its buildings. It’s truly like a walk in the past!

The access to the Roman Forum is included in the Colosseum’s ticket and it’s a very short walk for the Colosseum visitors’ exit. We guarantee that ruins like this, in the middle of a city, are hard to find.

With the same Colosseum ticket, other than the Roman Forum, you can also visit Palatine Hill. This is a legendary place: according to the legend, this is where Romulus founded the city of Rome in 753 BCE.  
Here’s a sneak peek about Romolus’ tale:  
According to Roman mythology, the twins Romulus and Remus, sons of Mars, were abandoned by the Tiber River and saved by a she-wolf who nursed them. As adults, they decided to found a city. They chose Palatine Hill due to its strategic location and existing settlements. However, a dispute arose over who would rule the city, leading Romulus to kill Remus in a fit of rage. Romulus then founded the city of Rome on Palatine Hill in 753 BCE, naming it after himself.

Interesting right? Our guides will be happy to tell you more about the legends surrounding this special city.

Nowadays, you can walk to the gardens and terraces of the hill while enjoying a spectacular view of Rome: from the Colosseum to Circus Maximus.

You’ve not entirely witnessed the beauties of Rome if you haven’t seen Trevi Fountain, designed by the Italian Nicola Salvi. Located in Rome's Trevi district, it is a stunning Baroque masterpiece completed in 1762. Famous for its intricate sculptures and grand design, the fountain depicts Neptune surrounded by tritons. 

Visitors like to toss coins into its waters, hoping to ensure their return to Rome or to wish for wealth and luck. It's a quintessential Roman landmark.

You can visit the Trevi Fountain for free, as it stands through the streets for everyone to watch and admire. Don’t know how to find it? Rely on Play Italy’s Tour of the Eternal City.

St. Peter is the largest church in the world and the heart of the Catholic religion. It’s also a must see in Rome for its stunning artistic value. 

The piazza and the basilica were designed and realized by some of the most important Italian artists such as Bramante, who started the project, Raphael, Michelangelo, who designed the dome, and Bernini who created the double colonnades topped with gigantic statues.
 
Inside the basilica, in addition to admiring the imposing structure, visitors can observe some of the most famous sculptures in the world, such as Michelangelo's renowned Pietà.

As a place of religious worship, access to St. Peter's Basilica is free. You will only need to go through security checks. However, if you want to do a proper tour, we highly recommend a guided visit to Musei Vaticani (Vatican Museums) where amongst most things you’ll be able to see the famous Sistine Chapel.

Originally built as a pagan temple for Roman Gods, the Pantheon remains one of the best-preserved ancient Roman structures, completed around 126 AD under Emperor Hadrian. Its architectural brilliance is showcased in the massive dome with a central oculus, which not only introduces a dynamic play of light throughout the day but also allows rainwater to enter and drain through strategically placed holes at the floor's center, symbolizing the connection between the celestial and the earthly.

Transformed into the Christian church known as the Basilica of St. Mary and the Martyrs, this historic edifice continues to mesmerize with its perfect proportions, its height equal to the dome's diameter, embodying cosmic harmony. Today, it serves as a sacred site that houses the tombs of several Italian kings and the celebrated Renaissance artist Raphael, merging Rome’s ancient pagan past with its Christian heritage

The Sistine Chapel stands as a crown jewel of Renaissance art and is globally celebrated for its architectural and artistic significance. Completed in the late 15th century, its fame primarily stems from the breathtaking ceiling frescoes painted by Michelangelo, a monumental work that continues to draw admiration from around the world. The chapel also holds a pivotal role in the Vatican's spiritual life, as it is the sacred site where cardinals gather to elect a new Pope.

As we mentioned before, you can visit the Sistine Chapel with a ticket for the Vatican Museums, which are worth seeing just as much as the chapel

The Spanish Steps are a monumental stairway that connects Piazza di Spagna with the Trinità dei Monti Church.
 
Completed in 1725, this elegant Baroque staircase consists of 135 steps and is a popular gathering spot for both locals and tourists. Designed by architects Francesco de Sanctis and Alessandro Specchi, it offers a picturesque setting adorned with seasonal flowers and provides a stunning view of the city. At the foot of the steps lies the Fontana della Barcaccia, a charming fountain by Pietro Bernini.

Piazza Navona is one of Rome's most celebrated squares, renowned for its exquisite Baroque architecture and vibrant atmosphere. Constructed on the site of the ancient Stadium of Domitian, where Romans once gathered to watch games, it preserves the shape of the racetrack beneath its cobblestones. The square is dominated by the stunning Fountain of the Four Rivers, a masterpiece designed by Gian Lorenzo Bernini in 1651, which features dramatic statues representing the major rivers of four continents.

Surrounding this architectural marvel are other notable Baroque sculptures and structures, including the Church of Sant'Agnese in Agone, designed by Francesco Borromini. Today, Piazza Navona is a dynamic hub of activity, bustling with cafes, street artists, and seasonal markets that draw both locals and tourists alike. The square's artistic and historical ambiance makes it a quintessential spot for experiencing the lively spirit and cultural richness of Rome

Villa Borghese Gardens are not only Rome’s third-largest public park but also a magnificent sanctuary that provides a tranquil retreat from the urban excitement. Covering an expansive 80 hectares, this verdant oasis is meticulously landscaped to feature a variety of lush gardens, winding walking paths, and numerous enchanting fountains that offer a peaceful ambiance. Among its leafy avenues and shaded groves, visitors can discover statues, hidden ponds, and elegantly crafted garden temples that enhance its romantic appeal.

In addition to its natural beauty, Villa Borghese Gardens is home to the renowned Borghese Gallery, a treasure trove of art set within a former villa. This esteemed gallery contains an impressive collection of artworks, including masterpieces by pivotal artists such as Bernini, Caravaggio, and Raphael, making it a must-visit for art enthusiasts. The combination of art and nature makes Villa Borghese Gardens an ideal destination for those looking to immerse themselves in beauty and tranquility while exploring one of Rome’s most cherished landscapes.

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