Exploring Rome and its surroundings: The unmissable attractions to visit

Rome, the Eternal City, is one of the most fascinating destinations in the world, rich in history, culture and architectural beauty. But it’s not just the historic center of Rome that is fascinating, its surroundings offer a variety of hidden gems and picturesque places that are worth exploring

What are the most famous tourist attractions in Rome?
In this article, we will guide you through a selection of unmissable attractions in Rome and its surroundings.

Whether you are a history buff, an art lover or looking for moments of tranquility, Rome and its surroundings will satisfy your expectations and surprise you with their timeless beauty.

Before starting I would like to recommend that you also take a look at our passes section to see the advantages of having multiple attractions combined in one convenient card that saves time and money

The Colosseum

We begin our adventure in the heart of Rome with the most iconic monument of the city: the Colosseum.

This ancient Roman amphitheater was built in the 1st century AD. and it is one of the largest and best preserved in the world. Admire the majestic architecture as you immerse yourself in the history of ancient Rome. Walk along the corridors and imagine the shows that took place in this place.

The atmosphere is magical, especially at sunset, when the lights come on and the Colosseum seems to awaken from its thousand-year history.
Don’t forget to also explore the Colosseum’s basement, where gladiators waited their turn to fight.

The Vatican City

A few steps from the Colosseum, there is another unmissable stop: the Vatican City.

This independent state is the spiritual and administrative center of the Catholic Church and is home to some of the world’s most important works of art and attractions.

Admire the majesty of St. Peter’s Basilica, with its imposing dome designed by Michelangelo, and discover the artistic treasures kept in the Vatican Museums, including the famous Sistine Chapel frescoed by the genius of Michelangelo.

We advise you to book tickets in advance to avoid long queues and to take your time to admire all the works of art.

Villa d’Este in Tivoli

A short distance from Rome, in the picturesque town of Tivoli, there is a Renaissance jewel: Villa d’Este.

This splendid residence was commissioned in the 16th century by Cardinal Ippolito II d’Este and is famous for its wonderful gardens and fountains.

Take a walk along the charming tree-lined avenues, explore the ornamental gardens and admire the fountains dancing to the sound of music. Villa d’Este is an oasis of tranquility and beauty, perfect for a trip away from the frenzy of the city.

Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the Fontana dell’Ovato, with its waterfalls and water features, which create a magical and relaxing atmosphere.

Ostia Antica

If you are passionate about archaeology, you cannot miss Ostia Antica, the ancient port of Rome.

This well-preserved archaeological site offers a unique insight into Roman life in antiquity. Stroll along the ancient streets, explore the ancient houses, temples and public baths, immersing yourself in the atmosphere of an entire Roman city.

The beauty of Ostia Antica lies in being a real window into the past, allowing you to relive the ancient grandeur of Rome.

We recommend that you take an expert guide to discover the secrets and stories of this fascinating archaeological site.

Piazza Navona Immersed in the heart of Rome

Piazza Navona is one of the most fascinating squares in the city.

Its elongated shape and the wonderful fountains in the center create a unique atmosphere.

Admire the Fountain of the Four Rivers, the work of Gian Lorenzo Bernini, which represents the four most important rivers of the time: the Nile, the Ganges, the Danube and the Rio de la Plata.

Take a stroll among the cafes and shops, and enjoy the energy and street art that enlivens the square.

During the Christmas period, Piazza Navona transforms into a market with stalls and lights, creating an enchanting atmosphere.
Take a look at our dedicated article on the main squares of Rome.

Appia Antica For a unique experience over time

head to the Appia Antica, one of the oldest and most important streets of ancient Rome.

Walk along the original pavements and admire the remains of tombs, villas and ancient monuments that dot this historic street. A visit to the Appia Antica will make you feel as if you have gone back in time, far from the frenzy of the modern city. Don’t forget to also visit the Appia Antica Regional Park, which offers wonderful green areas and walking routes.

Castel Sant’Angelo Located on the banks of the Tiber river

Castel Sant’Angelo is a majestic fortress that combines history, architecture and breathtaking views.

Originally built as a mausoleum for Emperor Hadrian, the castle has spanned the centuries and served various functions throughout history.

Explore the internal rooms, secret corridors and the panoramic terrace to admire a spectacular view of Rome.

In addition to its fascinating history, the castle is also linked to Giuseppe Verdi’s famous opera, “Il Trovatore”.

Villa Borghese and its gardens

For a relaxing break in nature, head to Villa Borghese, one of Rome’s largest public parks. Its vast gardens offer an oasis of tranquility in the middle of the city.

Take a walk among the centuries-old trees, visit the Borghese Museum and Gallery, which houses a precious collection of works of art, and rent a bicycle or a boat to explore the park in a fun and relaxing way.

Don’t forget to stop at the Pincio, a panoramic balcony from which you can admire a spectacular view of Piazza del Popolo and the center of Rome. 😉

If you are looking for more information about one of these attractions, don’t hesitate to leave us a comment below 🙂