15 iconic Rome landmarks (and sights) that you can't miss

When you think of Rome landmarks, what springs to mind? The Colosseum, with its ancient gladiatorial history? How about the Sistine Chapel, home to the world’s finest ceiling fresco? Rome is just packed with some of the most popular museums and historic buildings in the world.

If you’re unsure where to start, this list will help you uncover some of the beautiful architectural landmarks that are great spots for a date, like the famous Trevi Fountain. Others will inspire your kids, transporting them to another era. It’s all waiting for you in Rome.

Rome’s landmarks at a glance

Most-visited landmark: Colosseum

Oldest landmark: Roman Forum

Tallest building: St. Peter’s Basilica

Largest green space: Villa Borghese Gardens

Historic and architectural landmarks in Rome

1. Colosseum

The Colosseum is one of the most iconic buildings in the world. This arena, where gladiators once fought for the Emperor’s entertainment, is truly spectacular and must be on everyone’s itinerary. Known for its ancient gladiatorial battles, this architectural masterpiece offers a glimpse into the grandeur of Roman history.

Highlights

Explore the vast amphitheater and imagine the roar of the crowds that once filled its seats. You'll also be able to visit other ancient sites like the Roman Forum and the Palatine Hill.

Address

Piazza del Colosseu 1, 00184 Rome

Opening hours

Monday-Sunday, 9:00 AM-7:15 PM

2. The Sistine Chapel

Anyone interested in art or architecture will fall in love with Vatican City. One of the main highlights is the Sistine Chapel, where Michelangelo’s famous ceiling fresco continues to captivate thousands of visitors each year. Witness the iconic “Creation of Adam” and other biblical scenes that adorn the chapel.

Highlights

For something truly special, join the Key Master’s Visit to the chapel. You’ll be there first thing in the morning, watching the lights come on in a completely empty building. There’s nothing like it.

Address

00120 Vatican City

Opening hours

Monday-Thursday 8:30 AM-6:30 PM

Friday-Saturday 8:30 AM-10:30 PM

Closed Sundays

3. St Peter’s Basilica

The Pope’s very own church, St Peter’s Basilica, is another crucial landmark in the Vatican. The exterior of this building is known across the world, while the interior is simply breathtaking, with its gilded mosaics and glorious statues.

Highlights

Its magnificent dome, designed by Michelangelo, dominates the skyline of Vatican City. Visitors can explore its opulent interior, which houses stunning artworks and sacred relics. The views are amongs the most Insta-worthy places in Rome.

Address

Piazza San Pietro, 00120 Città del Vaticano, Vatican City

Opening hours

Monday-Saturday 7:00 AM-7:00 PM

Closed Sundays

4. The Pantheon

Rome is full of ancient landmarks, but the Pantheon is one of the best preserved. This ancient temple, which later became a Christian church, has beautiful marble floors, towering columns, and amazing statues.

Highlights

Visitors can admire its harmonious proportions and the sunlight streaming through the oculus. Look out for the tomb of Raphael, one of Rome’s finest artists.

Address

Piazza della Rotonda, 00186 Rome

Opening hours

Monday-Sunday 9:00 AM-6:45 PM

5. Castel Sant'Angelo

Initially built as a mausoleum for Emperor Hadrian’s family, Castel Sant’Angelo has also been a fortress, a papal residence, a castle, and a museum. This mighty fortress overlooks the Tiber and has often defended Rome from sieges.

Highlights

One of the main attractions of your tour of Castel Sant’Angelo is the chance to go up on the terrace. You’ll enjoy panoramic views across the city, with every famous monument on display.

Address

Lungotevere Castello 50, 00193 Rome

Opening hours

Tuesday-Sunday 9:00 AM-7:30 PM

Closed Mondays

6. The Trevi Fountain

The Trevi Fountain, one of the most famous landmarks in Rome, is a stunning example of Baroque architecture. Known for its intricate sculptures and cascading waters, this iconic fountain is a must-see for visitors. Tradition holds that tossing a coin into the fountain ensures a return to Rome. Will your wish come true?

Highlights

The Trevi Fountain has appeared in countless movies and TV shows. Get a unique perspective on the fountain with an underground tour showing you the ancient aqueduct hidden far below the surface.

Address

Piazza di Trevi, 00187 Rome

7. The Spanish Steps

The world-famous Spanish Steps are so much more than just a staircase. There are 135 stone steps connecting Piazza di Spagna to the church of Piazza Trinità dei Monti. Famous worldwide, the Spanish Steps should be high on your list of things to do.

Highlights

You can take a guided tour to learn more about the Spanish Steps. You’ll also learn more about the squares and monuments of central Rome. Best visited in spring when the steps are adorned with blooming flowers.

Address

Piazza di Spagna, 00187 Rome

8. The Capuchin Crypts

Hidden underground, the Capuchin Crypt is one of the spookiest places in Rome. Also known as the Bone Chapel, this underground cemetery holds the remains of 4,000 Capuchin monks. Their skulls and bones are on display, arranged in macabre patterns.

Highlights

A guided tour is the best way to explore the crypt, but be warned: if you're on the squeamish side, you might want to steer clear of this creepy crypt.

Address

Via Vittorio Veneto 27, 00187 Rome

Opening hours

Monday-Sunday 10:00 AM-7:00 PM

9. Villa Farnesina

Rome is famous for its Renaissance landmarks and masterpieces. Many are on display in the stunning Villa Farnesina, a beautiful home that will take you back to a more elegant era.

Highlights

When you explore the villa with an expert guide, you’ll learn more about the works on display. Don’t miss Raphael’s famous fresco, “The Triumph of Galatea."

Address

Via della Lungara 230, 00165 Rome

Opening hours

Tuesday-Sunday 10:00 AM-5:00 PM

Closed on Mondays

Scenic and natural landmarks in Rome

10. Borghese Gardens

Once a private garden, today the Borghese Gardens are the best park in Rome. With lakes, statues, beautiful lawns, and colorful flowers, they're the perfect place to go to relax.

Highlights

Want to see the best of the gardens? Take a bike tour to get around and visit the Borghese Gallery for exquisite art collections. Bring a picnic lunch to finish your morning.

Address

00197 Rome

11. The Tiber

The Tiber River has been the lifeblood of Rome for more than 2,000 years. Stroll along its banks, enjoy a scenic boat tour, or relax in one of the riverside cafés. The Tiber provides a beautiful backdrop to many of Rome’s historic landmarks.

Highlights

For a unique experience, try rafting the Tiber. You’ll cross to Tiber Island, where a freshly cooked pizza is waiting for you.

12. The Appian Way

The Appian Way, one of Rome’s oldest and most important roads, offers a journey through history. Stretching from the city into the countryside, it is lined with ancient ruins, tombs, and catacombs. As you pass classical aqueducts and enter rich green meadows, you'll feel a million miles from the busy city center.

Highlights

Take an e-bike tour of the Appian Way to relax as you see it. You'll stop for lunch, with a hearty Italian picnic. Stop by the Catacombs of San Callisto for a unique historical experience.

13. Castel Gandolfo

Castel Gandolfo, a charming town overlooking Lake Albano, is renowned for the Papal Palace, the summer residence of the Pope. This picturesque destination offers stunning views, beautiful gardens, and a peaceful retreat from the city. Visitors can explore the palace, stroll through the town, and enjoy local Roman cuisine.

Highlights:

A kayak tour of the lake is a great way to spend a summer’s day. You’ll even find a secret beach, which can only be reached from the water.

Address

Lake Albano, 00040 Castel Gandolfo, Rome

14. The Papal Gardens

The Papal gardens at Castel Gandolfo are just as immaculate as you’d expect. With perfectly-trimmed hedges, neat lawns, and elegant statues, they’re the ideal place to spend a morning in summer.

Highlights

An audio guide will help you appreciate these gardens. As they stretch over an enormous 55 hectares, you'll need help to see everything.

Address

Via Palazzo Pontificio, 00073 Castel Gandolfo, Rome

15. Aventine Hill

Aventine Hill, one of Rome’s legendary Seven Hills, offers a peaceful retreat with stunning city views. The Savello Park, high on the Aventine Hill, is one of Rome’s top natural spots. Known for its orange trees, this shady park gives you great views of the Vatican.

Highlights

Don’t miss the famous keyhole view at the Knights of Malta gate, which frames St. Peter’s Basilica perfectly.

Address

Piazza Pietro d'Illiria, 00153 Rome

Opening hours

Monday-Sunday 7:00 AM-6:00 PM

FAQs

What is the oldest historic landmark in Rome?

Rome is packed with ancient monuments. Some of the oldest landmarks include the Colosseum and the Pantheon.

What are some free landmarks to visit in Rome?

Rome's beautiful parks are always free. The Colosseum, and many other historic landmarks, are free on the first Sunday of the month. The buildings of the Vatican are free on the last Sunday of the month. Additionally, many Rome monuments, such as the Trevi Fountain and the Spanish Steps, can be enjoyed for free.

Are there any guided tours that focus on the architecture of Rome’s landmarks?

Yes. You’ll find a huge number of guided tours to choose from if you’re interested in architecture. Some focus on ancient architecture, while others celebrate the Renaissance.

How can I get the best views of scenic landmarks in Rome?

Climb the Aventine Hill for some of the best views of St Peter’s Basilica. You’ll also see great panoramic views from the terrace at Castel Sant’Angelo.

What are some natural landmarks near Rome worth visiting?

Head out of the city to Castel Gandolfo, where you’ll find a gorgeous lake and the manicured Papal gardens. You can also head further to the Amalfi Coast or even Vesuvius, the mighty volcano that destroyed Pompeii.