Aptly named as the Eternal City, Rome prides itself as a legendary open-air museum with mighty remnants of a powerful empire scattered across the city. From the remains of its imperial glory days to the Renaissance and baroque riches of its historic centre, Rome is a glorious architectural patchwork – a living masterpiece. There are few other cities with the same level of landmarks and influential art history.
If you are a fellow European, then venerable city makes for a perfect city break and if you are coming from further afield then I recommend seizing the opportunity to walk these history-defining streets.
Lovescribe’s Top 10 Places to Visit in Rome
- The Vatican State, St. Peter’s Basilica & Sistine Chapel
- Trevi Fontain
- Spanish Steps
- Colosseum
- Roman Forum
- Castel Sant Angelo
- Pantheon
- Trastevere
- Piazza Navona
- Piazza Venezia
Why is Rome called ‘The Eternal City’?
Rome was known as the Eternal City even amongst the ancient Romans themselves because the Roman people thought that no matter what happened to the world, no matter how many other empires might rise and fall, Rome would live on forever.
Know Before You Go
- Airports: There are two airports in Rome: Fiumicino and Ciampino – both airports are about 40 minutes away from the city centre with public transport.
- Car: Driving in Rome isn’t advisable— the traffic is mad at the best of times and drivers are insane.
- If you visit the Vatican it is important that you have your shoulders and knees covered, so bring a scarf or jacket to be prepared.
- Uber is available in Rome, so if you’re going further distances around the city, it is
cheaper option than a taxi!
The Vatican State, St. Peter’s Basilica & Sistine Chapel
Begin your journey at the Vatican City, declared an independent state in 1929 and home to St. Peter’s Basilica (the largest church in the world), the Vatican Museum and the shining star of the Italian Renaissance, the Sistine Chapel. The awe-inspiring architecture and art collection make the Vatican City top of the list of must-sees. I had a final-year Art History Masters student guide me around the Vatican and his passion and knowledge was inspirational, so I recommend having a guided tour with an expert.
Trevi Fountain
A remarkable fountain built in 1732 and depicts the sea god Oceanus with his seahorses has been the backdrop to some movies such as Fellini’s film – La Dolce Vita. Rome is the city of fountains, there are about 280 of them, but the Trevi Fountain is a queen of all the Roman fountains.
Get your coins at the ready and toss them in together as you make a wish with your sweetheart. Tradition has it that one coin ensures your return to Rome, two coins ensures a romance with a Roman, and three guarantees marriage with them!
Lovescribe top tip: the well-renowned Trevi Fountain is quite busy during the day, so head there around 6 am to capture shots without people or late evening when it is much quieter, and you can indulge in the magic this fountain exudes.
Castel Sant Angelo
The Castel Sant Angelo built by Emperor Hadrian turned into a fortress and served served as a prison. Today it is a fascinating museum situated next to the river Tiber and a stone’s throw from the Vatican. Whilst it is beautiful inside, if you are pushed for time I recommend marvelling from outside and visiting the Vatican.
Why not take an amorous nocturnal stroll through Rome? Start at the “Bocca della Verità” (the Mouth of Truth) and walk along the river until you reach the magnificent Ponte Sant’Angelo bridge. As you cross it, and approach the illuminated Castel Sant’Angelo, and adorning statues of angels will sprinkle their magic over your Roman Holiday. #classichollywood
Spanish Steps
Continuing with the routes taken by Hollywood stars Audrey Hepburn and Gregory Peck, sit on one of the 138 world-famous steps whilst feasting on a classic gelato. These steps back to the 18th century and aptly named as they connect the Piazza di Spagna with the Trinita dei Monti church. After you reach the top, swoon over the jaw-dropping skyline in front of your eyes. If you’d like to duck out of the crowds, check out the Keats and Shelley House, nearby. Peer into the lives of past Romantic poets who fell in love with the eternal city.
Colosseum
The mammoth Colosseum has witnessed centuries of turbulent history and will transport you back to the days of gladiators and games! Over 2000 years old, the Colosseum is still the world’s largest amphitheatre that could house up to 80,000 guests in its heyday. As you get closer to it, you will be stunned by its sheer size and the power it radiates. Don’t forget to steal a kiss in front of the Colosseum!
You will have access to the underground level of the building where you can see a part of the tunnel system which used to bring the animals and gladiators into the Colosseum. I would recommend you visit the Belvedere level (the highest level) of the Colosseum where you will have the best view over the arena below (I had a combined ticket for both levels).
Lovescribe top tip: Skip the massive queues by purchasing your ticket online!
Roman Forum
Directly outside the Colosseum is the sprawling Roman Forum was the political heart of Ancient Rome. Public speeches were given, markets were held, processions marched their way through. Embark on search for the impressive Temple of Roma and Amor, built partly in honour of the goddess of love, Venus.
Pantheon
The oculus, or open-air opening in the dome of the Pantheon, is an ode to the beauty of the cosmos. Bring your sweetheart to gaze at the majestic dome — from the outside and the inside it is breathtaking.
Trastevere
You’ve tossed a few euros into the Trevi Fountain and marvelled at the Colosseum…what next? Cross the Tiber river to Trastevere, a funky, bohemian area that pays homage to its medieval roots. Trastevere is certainly one of Rome’s most charming neighbourhoods, where between tiny lively alleys, Roman trattorias, small markets, shops and artisan workshops, it’s still possible to find glimpses of ancient Rome.
Piazza Navona
After roaming Rome’s pretty streets, it won’t be long till you stumble upon baroque-styled Piazza Navona. This piazza is where the Stadium of Domitian once stood and is now home to 3 magical fountains, so make a wish and savour Instagram-worthy gelato.
Piazza Venezia
An unmissable, chaotic and brimming square – Piazza Venezia is the very core of Rome and is a short walk away from top spots. Whilst there is nowhere to indulge in an aperitivo, there is a wealth of sights around the square worth visiting.
Where to stay?
Choosing the right area to stay in Rome is crucial for ensuring you optimise the time you are in this irresistible city and create treasurable memories in accommodation that suits your needs.
- If you want to be in the main hubbub of it all and expenses are irrelevant than staying in the historical city centre offers a splendid view to take in Rome’s eternal beauty. With irresistibly romantic hotspots like the Trevi Fountain, Pantheon and Piazza Navona.
- Just 15 minutes north of the Spanish Steps, you will find the Parioli District, offering a chic and calm atmosphere that gives the sensation of being ‘at home’ amongst some of the city’s most sophisticated and well-to-do Romans.
- The Ancient Rome district is an idyllic place for history aficionados and provides an excellent base from which to explore essential must-sees, such as the Colosseum, the Roman Forum or Capitoline Hill. It’s less crowded and quieter than the historic centre and just perfect for lovers to get lost in the charming streets.
- Crossing the River Tiber you will encounter the bustling streets of Trastevere which beckons young couples thanks to its heady nightlife and round-the-clock trattorias. This is the perfect area for hipsters looking to enjoy ‘authentic’ Rome and the operatic voices of boisterous Italians. Whilst there aren’t many emblematic monuments and it isn’t very quiet, this is the best place to stay if you want to experience Rome like a local. Hotels are around 30% cheaper than in the historic area, and you can find quirky, ivy-covered bed and breakfasts that ooze romance.
- If you want to skip long queues for the Vatican and Sant’Angelo castle, then staying in the Prati area would be the most convenient. Spending your Roman holiday here really transports you back in time as the streets are paved with ancient stone and there are plenty of good restaurants.
- Located only 10 minutes walk from the Colosseum, the Monti district is an elegant enclave of cute streets and picture-perfect piazzas. I recommend this area for arty couples that love an alternative style of accommodation, independent cafes and intimate wine bars.
Where to eat?
No-nonsense cucina romana (Roman cuisine) – The Pompeian-red trattoria Flavio al Velavevodetto is a superb place to experience decent food for an affordable price. Just to wet your appetite, think pasta tubes wrapped in a silky cream sauce with shards of pancetta and for dessert, a feather-light Tiramisu.
Vegetarian & Vegan – Wander to the elegant eatery, Il Margutta. On Via Margutta, an ivy covered street off of Piazza del Popolo, you’ll find the restaurant among a strew of art galleries. Fresh food in an intimate atmosphere — does it get better than that?
Where to shop?
- For the best international luxury shopping head for the area near the foot of the Spanish Steps, specifically Via dei Condotti and Via Borgognona.
- Wander to buzzing Via del Governo Vecchio for trendy boutiques and beautiful Via Giulia for art and antiques.
- You’ll find all the international labels down Via del Corso, and the streets that radiate from it. This is really easy to find in the heart of Rome’s historic center running from Piazza Venezia to Piazza del Popolo.
- Wander around popular high street stores mixed with small designer boutiques, bookstores, and the elegant Galleria Alberto Soldi shopping centre.
Best Rome Read…If you need a more in-depth guide around this captivatingly beautiful city then I found Lonely Planet’s Guide to Rome incredibly helpful and even includes a city map (ideal for a digital detox holiday, no google maps!)
If you have already been to Rome and you think I’ve missed anything out, I would love to hear about your experiences and what treasures you found! If I’ve inspired you to go, feel free to ask me anything in the comments below. Ciao!
