25 Unmissable Attractions to Visit When in Rome

Welcome to Rome, the Eternal City, where history, art, and culture come alive in every corner. Whether a seasoned traveler or a first-time visitor, Rome has many unmissable attractions that will leave you in awe. From ancient ruins to breathtaking art masterpieces, there's something for everyone in this vibrant city. To prove our point, we've prepared a list of 25 must-visit places to explore in Rome, or as we like to call them, 25 unmissable Rome attractions.

With so many incredible attractions to visit in Rome, carrying heavy bags can be cumbersome and limit your enjoyment. Nannybag's network of partner locations provides safe and reliable storage options across Rome to avoid any sticky situation, so you can roam freely without worrying about your belongings. Time for you to find helpful luggage storage sites in Rome and wander through the Colosseum, the Vatican, and many more fascinating places without lugging around your suitcases.

1. Campo de' Fiori

Kickstart your Roman adventure at the lively Campo de' Fiori. This bustling square hosts a vibrant daily market with fresh produce, flowers, and local goods. As the sun sets, the area transforms into a hub for nightlife, with bars and restaurants serving delicious Roman cuisine and drinks.

Opening hours: The market is open every morning except Sundays. Bars and restaurants usually operate from morning till late at night.

Address: Campo de' Fiori, 00186 Rome, Italy.

Nearest Metro/Bus Station: The closest bus stop is "Corso Vittorio Emanuele II."

Price Range: Free to visit. Prices vary for food and drinks.

2. Vatican City

Prepare to be amazed by the smallest independent state in the world, Vatican City. Home to the Pope and an array of awe-inspiring landmarks, this city within a city is a must-see. Marvel at St. Peter's Square and explore the vast St. Peter's Basilica, a masterpiece of Renaissance architecture.

Opening hours: St. Peter's Basilica - Daily, from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM (April to September) and 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM (October to March).

Address: Vatican City.

Nearest Metro/Bus Station: The closest metro station is "Ottaviano - San Pietro" (Line A).

Price Range: Entrance to St. Peter's Basilica is free, but there might be a fee for specific areas and guided tours.

3. Roman Forum and Palatine Hill

Step back to ancient Rome as you explore the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill. These iconic historic sites glimpse the city's ancient history, with ancient ruins and grand structures that once stood as the center of Roman life.

Opening hours: Daily, from 8:30 AM until one hour before sunset.

Address: Via della Salara Vecchia, 5/6, 00186 Rome, Italy.

Nearest Metro/Bus Station: The closest metro station is "Colosseo" (Line B).

Price Range: Tickets are combined with the Colosseum ticket. Prices may vary, and guided tours are available.

4. Trevi Fountain

One of Rome's most famous landmarks, the Trevi Fountain, is a masterpiece of Baroque art that you must see in Rome. Throw a coin into the fountain to ensure your return to Rome. Visit during the evening to witness the magical play of lights on the water and the surrounding sculptures.

Opening hours: Open 24 hours, but visiting during the day or evening is best to avoid crowds.

Address: Piazza di Trevi, 00187 Rome, Italy.

Nearest Metro/Bus Station: The closest metro station is "Barberini" (Line A).

Price Range: Free to visit.

5. Spanish Steps

Adjacent to the elegant Piazza di Spagna, the Spanish Steps provide a picturesque spot for the city's beauty. Climb the 135 steps to reach the top, where you'll be rewarded with a stunning view of Rome's historic center.

Opening hours: Open 24 hours.

Address: Piazza di Spagna, 00187 Rome, Italy.

Nearest Metro/Bus Station: The closest metro station is "Spagna" (Line A).

Price Range: Free to visit.

6. Capitoline Museums

If you're an art enthusiast, the Capitoline Museums should be on your list. As the world's oldest public museum, it houses an exceptional collection of ancient Roman statues, sculptures, and Renaissance art. The museums are located on Capitoline Hill, one of Rome's seven hills, adding to the charm of the experience.

Opening hours: Daily, from 9:30 AM to 7:30 PM.

Address: Piazza del Campidoglio, 1, 00186 Rome, Italy.

Nearest Metro/Bus Station: The closest bus stop is "Piazza Venezia."

Price Range: Entrance fees vary, and guided tours are available.

7. Villa Borghese

Escape the bustling city and indulge in the tranquility of Villa Borghese, Rome's most famous park. Stroll around, rent a bike, or enjoy a rowboat ride on the serene lake. Take advantage of the Galleria Borghese, an art gallery within the park featuring stunning sculptures and paintings.

Opening hours: Park - Open 24 hours. Galleria Borghese - Timed entry, from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM.

Address: Piazzale Napoleone I, 00197 Rome, Italy.

Nearest Metro/Bus Station: The closest metro station is "Spagna" (Line A).

Price Range: Separate tickets for Galleria Borghese and bike/boat rentals in the park are required.

8. Baths of Caracalla

Step into the past at the Baths of Caracalla, one of Rome's most impressive ancient thermal bath complexes. These well-preserved ruins offer insight into the Roman bathing rituals and the grandeur of Roman architecture.

Opening hours: Daily, from 9:00 AM to 6:30 PM.

Address: Viale delle Terme di Caracalla, 00153 Rome, Italy.

Nearest Metro/Bus Station: The closest metro station is "Circo Massimo" (Line B).

Price Range: Tickets are available, and guided tours are offered.

9. Appia Antica (Appian Way)

Travel back in time along the ancient Appian Way, one of the most significant Roman roads. This historic route is lined with ancient tombs, catacombs, and ruins, making it a captivating journey through history.

Opening hours: The road is open all day, but catacombs and some attractions have specific opening hours.

Address: Via Appia Antica, 00178 Rome, Italy.

Nearest Metro/Bus Station: The closest bus stop is "Appia Antica/Domine Quo Vadis."

Price Range: Prices vary for catacombs and guided tours.

10. Piazza Navona

With its distinctive oval shape, Piazza Navona is one of Rome's most charming squares. Admire the beautiful Baroque fountains, including the famous Fountain of the Four Rivers by Gian Lorenzo Bernini. The piazza is a great place to relax, enjoy street performances, and indulge in gelato.

Opening hours: Open 24 hours.

Address: Piazza Navona, 00186 Rome, Italy.

Nearest Metro/Bus Station: The closest bus stop is "Corso Rinascimento - Navona."

Price Range: Free to visit.

11. Sistine Chapel

Prepare to be awestruck by the artistic masterpiece that is the Sistine Chapel. Located within the Vatican Museums, it features Michelangelo's famous ceiling frescoes, including "The Creation of Adam."

Opening hours: Monday to Saturday, from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM.

Address: Vatican City.

Nearest Metro/Bus Station: The closest metro station is "Ottaviano - San Pietro" (Line A).

Price Range: Entrance is included in Vatican Museums ticket, and guided tours are available.

12. Vatican Museums

A treasure trove of art and history, the Vatican Museums house an extensive art collection from various periods and civilizations. From ancient sculptures to Renaissance masterpieces, there's something for every art lover here.

Opening hours: Monday to Saturday, from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM.

Address: Viale Vaticano, 00165 Rome, Italy.

Nearest Metro/Bus Station: The closest metro station is "Ottaviano - San Pietro" (Line A).

Price Range: Tickets are available, and guided tours are recommended.

13. Aventine Hill

Head to the Aventine Hill for a quiet and romantic escape from the city's hustle and bustle. Stroll through the peaceful orange groves of Parco Savello and enjoy a stunning view of Rome through the famous Keyhole of the Knights of Malta.

Opening hours: The park is open during daylight hours.

Address: Parco Savello, 00153 Rome, Italy.

Nearest Metro/Bus Station: The closest bus stop is "Circo Massimo."

Price Range: Free to visit.

14. Colosseum

A trip to Rome would only be complete with visiting the iconic Colosseum. This ancient amphitheater symbolizes Rome's rich history and is a testament to the grandeur of ancient Roman engineering and architecture.

Opening hours: Daily, from 8:30 AM to 6:15 PM (varies throughout the year).

Address: Piazza del Colosseo, 1, 00184 Rome, Italy.

Nearest Metro/Bus Station: The closest metro station is "Colosseo" (Line B).

Price Range: Tickets are available, and guided tours are recommended for a more immersive experience.

15. Piazza Venezia and Altare della Patria

Marvel at the monumental Altare della Patria (Altar of the Fatherland) and its breathtaking views of Rome from the top. Located at Piazza Venezia, this splendid monument commemorates Victor Emmanuel II, the first king of unified Italy.

Opening hours: Daily, from 9:30 AM to 7:30 PM.

Address: Piazza Venezia, 00186 Rome, Italy.

Nearest Metro/Bus Station: The closest metro station is "Colosseo" (Line B) or "Piazza Venezia."

Price Range: Free to visit, with paid access to the top for panoramic views.

16. Castel Sant'Angelo

Discover the impressive Castel Sant'Angelo, a fortress originally built as a mausoleum for Emperor Hadrian. Over the centuries, it served as a papal residence, a prison, and a military fortress. Climb to the top for stunning views of the Tiber River and the city.

Opening hours: Daily, from 9:00 AM to 7:30 PM.

Address: Lungotevere Castello, 50, 00193 Rome, Italy.

Nearest Metro/Bus Station: The closest bus stop is "Piazza Pia."

Price Range: Tickets are available, and guided tours are recommended.

17. Pantheon

Prepare to awaken by the magnificent Pantheon, a marvel of ancient Roman architecture. This nearly 2,000-year-old temple is famous for its gigantic dome and the oculus at its center, allowing sunlight to stream inside.

Opening hours: Monday to Saturday, from 9:00 AM to 7:30 PM. Sundays, from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM.

Address: Piazza della Rotonda, 00186 Rome, Italy.

Nearest Metro/Bus Station: The closest bus stop is "Pantheon."

Price Range: Free to visit.

18. Mouth of Truth (Bocca della Verità)

Test your honesty at the Mouth of Truth, a marble mask that supposedly bites the hand of liars. Located in the Basilica of Santa Maria Portico in Cosmedin, this ancient curiosity attracts curious visitors worldwide.

Opening hours: Monday to Saturday, from 9:00 AM to 5:50 PM. Sundays, from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

Address: Piazza della Bocca della Verità, 18, 00186 Rome, Italy.

Nearest Metro/Bus Station: The closest bus stop is "Piazza della Bocca della Verità."

Price Range: Free to visit.

19. Trastevere

Experience the bohemian atmosphere of Trastevere, one of Rome's most charming neighborhoods. Its narrow cobblestone streets are lined with cafes, bars, and artisan shops, making it an excellent place to enjoy traditional Roman cuisine and immerse yourself in local culture.

Opening hours: The neighborhood is always open, but individual shops and restaurants have their operating hours.

Address: Trastevere, 00153 Rome, Italy.

Nearest Metro/Bus Station: The closest tram stop is "Piazza Gioacchino Belli."

Price Range: Prices vary for food and drinks.

20. Mouthwatering Roman Cuisine

Indulge in Rome's flavors by trying classic dishes like carbonara, cacio e pepe, and supplì. Don't forget to savor some gelato, an authentic Italian treat that will satisfy your sweet cravings.

Opening hours: Restaurants and gelaterias have different opening hours, but you can easily find a place to eat at various times.

Address: Restaurants and gelaterias are scattered all over Rome.

Nearest Metro/Bus Station: Varies depending on the place you choose.

Price Range: Prices vary depending on the restaurant or gelateria.

21. Villa d'Este in Tivoli

Venture outside of Rome to Tivoli and explore the magnificent Villa d'Este, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This Renaissance villa is renowned for its stunning gardens, terraces, and fountains, creating a magical and refreshing escape.

Opening hours: Daily, from 8:30 AM to 7:45 PM (varies throughout the year).

Address: Piazza Trento, 5, 00019 Tivoli, Italy.

Nearest Metro/Bus Station: Take a train from Rome to Tivoli and then a bus to Villa d'Este.

Price Range: Tickets are available for the villa and gardens.

22. Palazzo Barberini

Art enthusiasts will be captivated by Palazzo Barberini, an exquisite palace housing the National Gallery of Ancient Art. Admire masterpieces by Caravaggio, Raphael, and other renowned artists in this impressive museum.

Opening hours: Tuesday to Sunday, from 8:30 AM to 7:00 PM.

Address: Via delle Quattro Fontane, 13, 00184 Rome, Italy.

Nearest Metro/Bus Station: The closest metro station is "Barberini" (Line A).

Price Range: Tickets are available, and guided tours are recommended.

23. Centrale Montemartini

Experience a unique blend of ancient and modern art at Centrale Montemartini. This innovative museum showcases classical sculptures alongside industrial artifacts in a former power plant, creating an extraordinary juxtaposition.

Opening hours: Tuesday to Sunday, from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM.

Address: Via Ostiense, 106, 00154 Rome, Italy.

Nearest Metro/Bus Station: The closest metro station is "Piramide" (Line B).

Price Range: Tickets are available.

24. MACRO (Museum of Contemporary Art of Rome)

Explore MACRO's vibrant contemporary art world, a cutting-edge museum hosting a diverse collection of modern artworks and exhibitions.

Opening hours: Tuesday to Sunday, from 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM.

Address: Via Nizza, 138, 00198 Rome, Italy.

Nearest Metro/Bus Station: The closest metro station is "Policlinico" (Line B).

Price Range: Tickets are available.

25. Explore the Neighborhoods

If time is on your side, you also take some time to wander through Rome's distinct neighborhoods, each with unique charm and character that make it a Rome must-visit. Every corner of the city has something unique, from the trendy Testaccio to the artistic Pigneto.