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Vatican City
The papal 'city within a city' of the Vatican in Rome is a rich complex of religious history and art that offers an incredible feast of attractions. Catholic or not, there is so much to admire with the vivid ceiling of the Sistine Chapel the undoubted highlight for many. The Vatican City comprises many exquisite palaces, courtyards and museums such as Gregorian Etruscan and Egyptian Museums, the Missionary Museum, Pio Clementine Museum and much more. At least a whole day is required to fully explore and it exudes a timelessness and tradition that is an absolute must for history buffs.
The Colosseum
The Colosseum was the most impressive landmark of the Roman Empire and even though it has fallen into ruins over the preceding centuries, it remains a truly evocative sight. A tour of the monument can glimpse the sheer scale and intricacy of its construction which was able to accommodate up to 60,000 in its heyday. Even today it still remains the most iconic sight of ancient Rome and continues to be as popular as ever with visitors to the city.
Trevi Fountain
This is the most iconic and famous fountain in Rome which is located in the small picturesque Piazza Trevi. It is a forever popular attraction with visitors exuding a faded glamour that has so often been portrayed vividly on the silver screen. It is a magnificent baroque style fountain that has also been a vibrant social meeting place for Romans. The age old tradition of tossing a coins into its waters is as strong as ever and is a must on a short break to Rome.
The Pantheon
The Pantheon is undeniably one of Rome's most impressive sights and everything about it is big and bold. It features huge 60 ton columns of marble and an immense central dome which was the world's largest at the time. Originally built as a temple for the Gods, it houses the tombs of Raphael and several Italian kings and still has the fully intact marble flooring built by the Romans. It is one of Rome's most beautiful ancient buildings and also an inspiring vision for those interested in ancient art and design.
The Spanish Steps
Like the Trevi Fountain, this is one of the most popular meeting places in Rome and a hive of social activity throughout the day. It is surrounded by the busy pavement cafes of Piazza di Spagna and is a great place to mix and chat to locals. The steps themselves are highly impressive rising over 12 flights up to a small church flanked by ornately carved sculptures.
The Forum
The Forum was the centre of political and spiritual life in Rome and is made up of an inspiring collection of evocative ruins. These include triumphal arches, temples and basilicas which together offer a little glimpse of vibrant Ancient Rome. These include the Temple of Venus and the House of the Vestal Virgins. There are remains from different periods of the Roman Empire and offer a visual treat for archaeologists.
Villa Borghese
The Villa Borghese is the largest green open space in Rome and is used for recreation, relaxation and as a cultural and heritage park. There is a lake, fountains, statues and monuments and numerous museums within its picturesque landscaping. It has something for everyone with playgrounds and sports amenities for the active and inspiring art and history in its museums. Admire contemporary works at the Galleria Nazionale d'Arte Moderna and old masters such as Raphael and Rubens at The Galleria Borghese.
St Peters Basilica
The spiritual home of Christianity, St Peters is the focus of pilgrimages and tourist visits to the Vatican and is a truly awe inspiring religious site. It is the largest church in the world and arguably the most opulent. It has 45 altars vividly decorated by famous Renaissance masters topped by an immense dome designed by Michelangelo. One of its most popular attractions is the colourfully attired Swiss Guard which has loyally protected the building for centuries.
Piazza Navona
Of all the squares in Rome, Piazza Navona is perhaps it’s most beautiful which is dominated by the striking Fountain of the Four Rivers. There are many al fresco cafes, restaurants and bars around its circumference which adds to its noisy and vibrant appeal and the perfect spot for people watching.
Palatine Hill
Spend an afternoon exploring the ancient monuments of Palatine Hill, the most central and prominent of its 7 hills and the location of Rome's very earliest settlement. It is a veritable feast for archaeologists with seemingly the entire area unearthing important finds of ancient Roman villas, imperial palaces and temples. The most famous excavations include the Temple of Apollo and the Palace of Caligula.
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