Exploring Rome: A Guide to the Top 11 Must-See Sights and Attractions in Italy's Capitol

Rome is a must-see, one of the most famous cities in the world and the capital of Italy. The expansive city has so much to see and such excellent historical sites. Here are the top 11 things to do in Rome, Italy, on your visit.

#1 Colosseum

The Colosseum is one of the most recognizable sites in the world! It is the largest ancient amphitheater ever built. Construction concluded in 80 AD. Today it remains the most extensive standing theater in the world. We had our tickets already in hand and arrived early in the morning to beat the crowds to the famous site. We also listened to a Rick Steves audio tour while visiting. It is such an incredible experience to see!

#2 Palatine Hill & Roman Forum

We visited Palatine Hill and the Roman Forum right after the Colosseum (they are right next to each other). These ancient ruins were believed to be the first place people began publicly meeting around 500 BC when the Roman Republic was founded. It is home to many of the ancient city's most impressive temples and monuments. Walking around the site takes you back in time and imagining what life would have been like in ancient Rome.

#3 St. Peter's Basilica

Located in the Vatican City, St. Peter's Basilica was built between 1506 and 1626 in the Renaissance style. It is free to visit, but the line through security is usually long and wraps around the square outside. Within the basilica are some smaller chapels, artworks, statues, and tombs that are worth the visit.

#4 Vatican Museum

The Vatican Museum is one of the largest art collections in the world. Most known as the home to the Sistine Chapel by Michelangelo, which is the most-visited part of the museum. A visit will take 2-3 hours, and it is quite a maze, but it is a must-see.

#5 Pantheon

The Pantheon is a former Roman temple dedicated to the Gods throughout history. It is also the best-preserved monument from ancient Rome, with its giant dome and famous hole on the top. The structure remains the largest unsupported dome in the world.

#6 Trevi Fountain

The Trevi Fountain is one of Rome's oldest water sources, with a legend that says if you throw one coin into the fountain, you will return to Rome. If you throw two in, you will fall in love with an attractive Italian. If you throw three in, you will marry the person you met. This tradition also dates back to the ancient Romans, who would throw coins into the water so the gods would favor their journey.

#7 Spanish Steps

The Spanish Steps are settled between Piazza di Spagna at the base and Piazza Trinità dei Monti. Its architecture is in the Roman Baroque style and has been the backdrop for many films. It is the perfect place to relax on the stairs after a long day of sightseeing and enjoy some gelato.

#8 Borghese Gallery

The Borghese Gallery in the former Villa Borghese Pincianahas is home to some of the best pieces. Artwork includes paintings by Caravaggio, Canova, and Raphel. You will need tickets in advance to visit the museum, but the gardens are free to visit.

#9 Trajan's Column

Located next to the Roman Forum, Trajan's Column commemorates Roman emperor Trajan's victory in the Dacian Wars carved in numerous scenes that spiral around. The column measures 98 feet in height (30 meters) and is made from 20 huge Carrara marble drums weighing about 32 tons.

#10 Santa Maria della Vittoria

The Church of Santa Maria della Vittoria doesn't look like much from the outside, but the inside is stunning. The detail that went into the 1620s Baroque church left us in awe, including the painted dome, colored marble, and gold adorning.

#11 Altare della Patria

The Altare della Patria is a modern centerpiece monument in Rome, featuring large marble reliefs and statues. The monument, finished in 1935, commemorates the unification of Italy and the first king of Italy.

There is much to see in Rome's 'Eternal City.' Including its history, art, architecture, and beauty, and indulging in its gelato and pasta! We had such a great visit, and we made sure to throw our coins into the Trevi Fountain so that we would return one day.