Discover the Gems of Rome

Rome is a city full of amazing gems waiting to be discovered. The food, the sun, the people, and its rich art and architecture create a vibrant milieu. Whether you stay for five days or 15, your itinerary will always be full. Rome offers so much to everyone who wants to explore her. Here are some must-visit places:

Piazzas to Visit

Piazzas are the heart of Roman life, often adorned with churches, fountains, and cafes, and brimming with life.

• Saint Peter’s Plaza
  • Designer: Bernini
  • This is one of the grandest plazas in Rome, providing a majestic foreground to Saint Peter’s Cathedral. The plaza is always bustling with the faithful, making it a vibrant and spiritual hub.
• Piazza del Popolo
  • Location: Near the Vatican
  • Named after the popes, this huge piazza welcomes you with its grandeur and historical significance. It is a central spot that often serves as a starting point for exploring the city.

• Piazza Navona
  • Famous for its three beautiful Renaissance fountains and lively atmosphere with cafes, musicians, magicians, and tourists. The piazza is always buzzing with activity, making it one of the most dynamic spots in Rome.
• Piazza Rotonda 
  • Small yet significant due to the presence of the Pantheon, this piazza is a historical gem. It’s a great place to sit and admire the ancient architecture while enjoying a gelato.

     

• Piazza di Spagna
  • Romanticized in movies, with the Spanish Steps as a backdrop and a central fountain designed by Bernini. It is a popular spot for tourists and locals, perfect for an evening stroll or people-watching.

     

• Piazza Barberini
  • Situated in the heart of the city, it features the beautiful Triton Fountain commissioned by a pope in the 16th century. This piazza is a blend of historical charm and modern hustle, often busy with traffic and locals.

• Trevi Fountain
  • One of the most beautiful and crowded fountains in Rome, where visitors throw coins to make a wish to return to the city. The fountain’s intricate design and the legend behind it make it a must-visit spot.
• Piazza del Campidoglio
  • Designer: Michelangelo
  • Surrounded by the Capitoline Museums, this plaza is slightly elevated and offers an interesting approach. It is a masterpiece of Renaissance architecture and urban planning.
• Piazza Colonna
  • Home to the Column of the Immaculate Conception, near the Propaganda Museum. This piazza is a central point in Rome, surrounded by important government buildings.
• Campo de’ Fiori
  • A vibrant square surrounded by a flower market and elite brands, showcasing the lively spirit of Rome. It transforms from a bustling market by day to a social hub by night.

Churches and Cathedrals

Being the center of Catholic faith, Rome has an abundance of churches, cathedrals, and chapels that are architectural masterpieces.

• Saint Peter’s Basilica
  • Designer: Michelangelo
  • The biggest and most important church for Catholics, featuring grand architecture and Michelangelo’s sculptures. Dress code is strictly enforced to maintain its sanctity.Grand in its scale, Saint Peter’s Basilica is an architectural masterpiece designed by Michelangelo. Despite its vast size, Michelangelo’s genius use of perspective prevents the basilica from looking out of scale at any point. Inside, you’ll find the breathtaking Pietà, a beautiful sculpture by Michelangelo that captures emotions and beauty in marble. A must-visit for its spiritual significance and architectural marvel.
• Pantheon
  • Originally a pagan temple, now a Christian church. Known for its 105-foot dome with a 30-foot circular opening, a marvel of ancient engineering and an iconic symbol of Rome.
• Santa Maria in Trastevere
  • One of Rome’s oldest churches, dating back to 340 A.D., with stunning frescoes in gold. This church offers a serene atmosphere amidst the bustling Trastevere neighborhood.

Museums to Visit

Rome’s museums host paintings and sculptures commissioned by popes, showcasing the rich history and artistry of the city.

• Vatican Museums
  • Rich with art and history, featuring the Sistine Chapel with Michelangelo’s masterpieces. When the papacy was the most powerful system in Rome, popes commissioned many artworks. The visit to the Vatican Museums is a treasure trove for art and history enthusiasts. The Sistine Chapel, with Michelangelo’s masterpieces on the ceiling and walls, tells the story of creation and The Last Judgement, making it one of the most recreated and revered pieces of art in the world.

     

• Capitoline Museums
  • Located on Piazza del Campidoglio, showcasing antiquities from the last 2000 years and offering views of the Roman Forum. This museum is renowned for its exceptional paintings and sculptures.
• MAXXI Museum
  • Designer: Zaha Hadid
  • A glimpse into contemporary art and architecture. It showcases the thriving modern art scene in Rome, contrasting beautifully with the city’s ancient backdrop.

     

• Borghese Gallery and Museum
  • Located in Villa Borghese, it houses a superb collection of Renaissance and Baroque art. The museum features masterpieces by artists such as Bernini, Caravaggio, and Raphael, making it a must-visit for art lovers.

Must-Visit Places

These places offer a peek into the workings of Roman society and the grandeur of its architectural achievements.

 

• Roman Forum
  • A very good peek into the workings of Roman Republic society with councils, markets, temples, and basilicas. This site, accessible to the public, illustrates the planning and evolution of a thriving ancient community. There’s also a temple dedicated to Julius Caesar, one of the most popular Republican leaders who became a dictator and was murdered by his council of ministers. His popularity was such that the public was outraged and protested his murder.

     

• Colosseum
  • One of the most visited sites in Rome, showcasing grand architecture and the social dynamics of ancient Rome. This iconic amphitheater is a testament to Roman engineering and gladiatorial history.

     

• Trastevere
  • A quiet neighborhood with vibrant squares, music, and life. Its charming streets are perfect for evening explorations and offer a taste of local Roman culture.
• Circus Maximus
  • The site where charioteers displayed their skills and competed for supremacy. Today, it serves as a public park and historic landmark, recalling the grandeur of ancient Roman entertainment.

Gardens to Visit

These gardens reflect the perfection Romans achieved in sculpting, planning, and entertaining their guests.

1. Villa Adriana (Hadrian’s Villa)
   • Location: Near Tivoli
   • Known for its thousands of fountains and exquisite sculpting and planning. This sprawling complex reflects the opulence of Roman imperial life.
2. Villa Borghese
   • Home to a museum and a Renaissance garden spread over 80 acres, considered the green lung of Rome. It offers a peaceful retreat with lush greenery and cultural exhibits.
3. Villa d’Este
   • Known for its thousands of fountains with water gushing in more ways than you can imagine. This garden is a masterpiece of Renaissance landscape design and hydraulic engineering.

You can also check

1. Victor Emmanuel Memorial
   • Offers mesmerizing views from its rooftop, accessible by a glass lift. The panoramic view of Rome from the top is breathtaking and well worth the visit
   • Must-Try Foods: Pesto sauce, pastas, pizzas, risotto, and homemade gelato in unique flavors. Roman cuisine is a culinary delight that should not be missed.

• Precaution: Be aware of pickpockets to ensure an enjoyable tour. Always keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded areas.

Enjoy exploring the gems of Rome, a city that offers a rich blend of history, culture, and modern vibrancy.