Rome

Neighbourhoods to see

Where to start in a city so crammed with magnificent sights? Here are some highlights.

Colosseum

It’s so worth seeing this 2000 year-old amphitheatre where gladiators battled under the gaze of 50,000 spectators and bloodthirsty emperors. The labyrinths beneath held fighters and animals awaiting their fates…

Roman Forum

Step into the very heart of the Imperial Roman Empire to explore the streets, temples, palaces and marketplaces where citizens and Caesars ran ancient society.

Palatine Hill (Palatino)

This most central of the city’s seven hills has stunning panoramic views. Once an exclusive neighbourhood, it marks the site where a she-wolf raised the city’s mythical twin founders Romulus and Remus.

St Peter’s Basilica and Square

Prepare to goggle at one of the world’s largest churches and HQ of the Roman Catholic Church. This breath-taking Renaissance marvel holds countless relics and treasures, including Michelangelo’s famous Pietà statue.

Vatican Museums & the Sistine Chapel

These extensive museums have some of the greatest art ever created, including works by Raphael and Caravaggio. Brave the crowds to see the exquisite Sistine Chapel with Michelangelo’s legendary The Creation of Man.

Villa Borghese

Built as a 16th century ‘pleasure palace’ to house Cardinal Borghese’s art collection, this popular museum is packed with great works and lushly surrounded by extensive landscaped gardens.

Pantheon

One of Rome’s best-preserved buildings, this must-see temple was reconstructed in 126AD by Emperor Hadrian. The round oculus at top of the huge dome sits open to the sky to connect the temple with the gods above.

Trevi Fountain

Toss a coin into this immense Baroque fountain depicting Roman god of the seas Neptune on his chariot. The thousands of euros thrown in each day are given to a charity supporting Rome’s needy.

Piazza di Spagna and the Spanish Steps

This Italian Baroque square and staircase sit in a popular neighbourhood filled with prime shopping and impressive 17th and 18th century villas. A top spot for people-watching.