The tourist attractions and sights are closest in line when visiting Rome. One should set aside plenty of time to visit the most famous sights, especially during the tourist seasons, as there are often very long queues here. It is impossible to see all the sights when visiting Rome, but we have selected a bunch of the most popular sights Rome has to offer in our overview.
Colosseum
According to Abbreviation Finder, Rome’s famous Colosseum needs no further introduction, does it? What is left of the bloody battle arena – which is dated as far back as 82 AD, is a sight not to be missed. Over 50,000 people came here to see other people fighting against each other and powerful animals in battles that often went at the expense of human lives. Remember to book tickets online well in advance, otherwise most of the holiday will be spent in line!
Roman Forum
In ancient Rome, this forum was the very center of the city, where people had funerals, festivals, weddings and other rituals. Rome was almost built around this famous forum, which despite its very old age is very well preserved. For those interested in history, this is a gem that should be visited, and you can almost think back to ancient Rome when you are at the Roman Forum.
Pantheon
The Pantheon is a Roman temple, which despite its age from around 20 BC is still very well preserved. The temple was used to worship the gods, and was recently also used as a burial ground for famous artists and other people with an important role during the Italian Renaissance. The architecture is “stunning” and the Pantheon definitely deserves a visit once you are in Rome.
Vatican City State
The Vatican is one of the most famous tourist attractions in Rome, and is in fact not part of the city, but a state of its own! The small state consists of a large and open area called St. Peter’s Square, which houses the famous Vatican Palace and St. Peter’s Basilica. This is where the Italian pope lives, and there are many restaurants and eateries in the immediate vicinity.
The Spanish Steps
The Spanish Steps in Rome are a very popular tourist attraction, the stairs consist of a total of 138 steps and are centrally located in Rome. The name comes from the 17th century when the Spanish ambassador lived in the area, and therefore it was considered Spanish. Near the stairs are many cultural monuments, as well as a famous fountain.
Borghese Gallery
Art lovers can not miss a visit to the famous art museum Galleria Borghese. Located in Villa Borghese in Rome, it features paintings by well-known artists such as Leonardo Da Vinci, Caravaggio, Bernini and Rafael.
Trevi Fountain
The Trevi Fountain, also simply called the Trevi Fountain in Norwegian, is a 20 meter high and 26 meter wide fountain in the heart of Rome. It was built during the Baroque period and was completed in 1762. The water from the fountain comes from the old aqueduct Aqua Virgo, and according to legend it should give good luck to throw a coin over the shoulder and into the fountain. The Trevi Fountain is one of the most famous landmarks in Rome and a building you should definitely take with you when you first visit the Eternal City.
Piazza Navona
Piazza Navona is perhaps the most famous “piazza”, or square as we say in Norwegian, in Rome. The square is built on top of the remains of Domitian’s circus, which was a place where the ancient Romans came to watch sporting events. The square has a number of famous sights, including the magnificent Fontana dei Quattro Fiumi made by Bernini, the Fontana del Mor and the Fontana del Nettuno. The square is also surrounded by a number of beautiful buildings. It is recommended that you make the trip to this square, here you can also sit down at one of the many cafes and enjoy a coffee, while taking in all the beautiful space has to offer.
Monument to Vittorio Emanuele II
The Viktor Emanuel 2 monument is a mighty monument in Rome built in honor of Viktor Emanuel the Second, the first king of the united Italy. The monument is built in white marble from Brescia and was started in 1911, but first completed under Mussolini’s rule in 1935. The building is not old by Roman standards, but it is just as powerful a sight! The building is not too far from the Colosseum, so if you stop by the Colosseum (something you should of course do), chances are you will also notice this monument.
Trastevere district
Trastevere, which can be translated to “On the other side of the Tiber”, is a district located on the west side of the river Tiber in Rome. The district is considered by many to be the very heart of ancient Rome, and if you walk along the streets here you can soak up the authentic Italian atmosphere. Here the streets are narrow and paved with cobblestones, with small cozy restaurants and bars. Less car noise and a calmer atmosphere make the area popular for those who want to experience a slightly different part of Rome.