Top 10 Places to Visit in Rome

Top 10 Places to Visit in Rome

Rome would be nothing without its ancient landmarks, but exploring more general places in the city makes for a very worthwhile adventure too.

I find that sightseeing sometimes overwhelms me, and there are days when I very much prefer the experience of a renowned restaurant, or popular park, rather than historic monument after historic monument.

Ten places I’d recommend for a visit in Rome? Read on!

1. Trevi in Rome

There’s a lot more to see in the Trevi district than just the 17th century Triton fountain. While the crowds gather around the water, venture out into greater Trevi and explore the vendor lined streets and trinket shops.

Trevi is a whimsical place in terms of Rome’s right bank. It’s also a hotspot for gelato parlors and authentic (yet touristy) restaurants. Il Gelato di San Crispino is one of the most sought after places to eat gelato in the city; you’ll have to wait in a bit of a line, but it’s always worth it.

Trevi in Rome – by Jurre Houtkamp – Unsplash

2. The Trastevere in Rome

Heading over the river onto Rome’s left bank, the Trastevere is another place I can lose hours in on any given day.

This neighborhood has become the official heart of Rome’s nightlife. It’s a river-side district comprised of narrow, cobblestone streets all lined with eateries and vibrant bars.

During the day, the Trastevere is also home to many great beauty parlors, flower shops and local boutiques. It’s the most continental area in the ancient city, so when you’ve had enough pizza and pasta for one trip, you know where to go for something different.

Trastevere – by Fineas Anton – Unsplash

3. Villa Borghese in Rome

The Villa Borghese is only the third largest park in Rome, situated in the northern end of the right bank.

It’s manageable size it what makes it one of my favorite places in the city; lots to see and do, but never overwhelming.

The Villa Borghese is home to many attractions, including the Borghese Gallery. In addition to this museum, there is a theatre, an exquisite villa, the Victorian Water Clock and even a zoo.

In addition to this, the Villa Borghese offers the public beautifully manicured gardens to enjoy at their leisure.

Villa Borghese – by Leo Nordén – Unsplash

4. The Vatican in Rome

It’s difficult to imagine a trip to Rome without a visit to the Vatican, however the time consuming nature of this attraction makes it hard for travelers with just a few days in Rome.

Those with lengthier stays in Rome will have time to stand in the endless Vatican queues, and slowly make their way through this independent city-state in the heart of the city.

The Vatican is an exceptional place to visit, especially if you make time for all of the museums inside of it. The Sistine Chapel and Michelangelo’s ceiling are two of Rome’s most sought after attractions.

Vatican City – by Matthew Waring – Unsplash

5. Teatro Argentina in Rome

When in Rome, don’t overlook the many theaters scattered across the city. The Italians love the opera, and the Teatro Argentina is one of the oldest opera/theatre houses in the country.

Built in 1731, the Teatro Argentina is still open for business today. On any day of the week you’ll be able to get your tickets from the box office for evening performances. Almost all of them begin at 9pm every night.

Teatro Argentina – by Jensens – Wikimedia Commons

6. Grazia & Graziella in Rome

It’s rare that I single out a specific Italian restaurant as an imperative place to visit while in Rome.

Grazia & Graziella have managed to create something very special in the heart of the city. If someone is coming to Rome just for the night, this is where I take them for the full local experience.

An incredible menu supported by top notch service, and an ambiance to make you swoon. It also won’t cost you an arm and a leg to dine here, but you will need to book well in advance.

Grazia & Graziella – by Grazia & Graziella – Uploaded by them

PRACTICAL INFORMATION

Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday — 11am to 1am

ADDRESS: Largo M.D. Fumasoni Biondi, 5, 00153 Roma RM, Italy

Metro STATION: Colosseo

7. Janiculum Hill in Rome

Technically Janiculum Hill doesn’t qualify as one of the seven hills of Rome, as it is slightly outside of the ancient city. It is, however, the second tallest hill in the larger confines of Rome, and offers picturesque views over the land.

The locals know this spot as Gianicolo, and most consider it to be one of the most romantic places in all of Rome. You’ll want to head up here during sunset if you can.

View from Janiculum Hill in Rome – by Sonse – Wikimedia Commons

8. River Tiber in Rome

Rome wouldn’t be Rome without the presence of the Tiber. Like most European cities, much of the whimsey of the Roman experience comes from strolling the banks of this body of water.

A visit to the Tiber is inevitable as you make your way between sites in Rome. It’s always nice, however, to spend a few minutes with the river itself, be it reading a book from a bench along the edge or actually taking a boat tour down stream.

River Tiber in Rome – by Jebulon – Wikimedia Commons

9. Riserva Naturale Dell’Insugherata in Rome

When you picture the ancient city of Rome, there is rarely much greenery involved in the fantasy. Quite contrarily, Rome is a city surrounded by lush, green, natural scapes — especially when you head north.

The Riserva Naturale Dell’Insugherata is right at the top of Rome, and offers acres upon acres of thick foliage through which anyone can hike. There is a lot of wildlife present in this reserve, as well as much interesting plant life.

Riserva Naturale Dell’Insugherata – by Patafisik – Wikimedia Commons

10. Ostia Near Rome

Depending on the length of your Roman visit, you might find you have time for a day trip or two during your stay.

Ostia is another one of my favorite places near Rome, as it’s the closest swimming beach to the city!

One can get to Ostia in under thirty minutes either by car or train. Once on the coast, you’ll find many beaches and recreational areas in which to enjoy the day.

Ostia – by CAPTAIN RAJU – Wikimedia Commons