1. The Colosseum: the iconic amphitheatre and symbol of Rome
No trip to Rome is complete without standing before the Colosseum, the largest amphitheatre ever built. Constructed between 70 and 80 AD, it held over 50,000 spectators who watched gladiatorial combat. Walking through its arches, you can almost hear the roar of the crowd echoing through the stone corridors.
📍 Location: Piazza del Colosseo, 1
💰 Tickets: €16-18 (includes the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill). Book online.
Worldtravellen Tip: Visit in the late afternoon for the most magical light and fewer crowds. Your ticket is valid for 24 hours and includes the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill!
Book your tickets online: it has been mandatory since 2025.
2. The Roman Forum (Forum Romanum) & Palatine Hill
Right next to the Colosseum, the Roman Forum was once the heart of ancient Rome. Walking among the ruins of the Temple of Saturn and the Arch of Titus feels like stepping into a history book. Climb Palatine Hill for a breathtaking panoramic view of the entire city, ideally at sunset!
3. Vatican City: Museums, Sistine Chapel & St. Peter’s Basilica
The Vatican Museums house one of the greatest art collections in the world, crowned by the Sistine Chapel and Michelangelo’s ceiling fresco. St. Peter’s Basilica is the largest church in the world and entry is free. Climb the 551 steps to the dome for a 360° view!
💰 Tickets: Vatican Museums €17. St. Peter’s Basilica free. Dome: €8-10. Book museum tickets at least 2 weeks ahead!
4. Trevi Fountain: the most famous fountain in the world
Ready to make a wish at the most famous fountain in the world? Legend says that if you throw a coin with your right hand over your left shoulder, you will return to Rome. Over €3,000 is tossed into the fountain every single day!
Worldtravellen Tip: Go early in the morning (05:00-06:00) or very late at night to avoid the tourist crowds. Also, pickpocketing is very common here, so watch your personal belongings. Ideally, skip the backpacks!
5. The Pantheon: 2,000 years of architectural perfection
Originally built in 27 BC and rebuilt by Hadrian in 118 AD. The unreinforced concrete dome was the largest in the world until the 15th century. The famous oculus (9 metres wide) lets natural light flood the interior.
💰 Tickets: €5. Free on the first Sunday of every month. Book online to skip the queues.
6. Trastevere: the most authentic neighbourhood in Rome
Cross the Tiber and lose yourself in the cobblestone lanes of Trastevere. Ivy-covered facades, colourful laundry strung between buildings, cosy trattorie with chequered tablecloths and live music drifting from hidden piazzas. Try cacio e pepe at a local trattoria, you will find some of the best food in the city right here.
7. Piazza Navona: the heart of Roman Baroque
One of Rome’s most elegant squares, built on top of an ancient Roman stadium. Admire Bernini’s Fontana dei Quattro Fiumi, grab a gelato and sit back to soak in the dolce vita atmosphere. Perfect for an evening stroll!
8. The Spanish Steps (Piazza di Spagna) & Villa Borghese
The 135 steps connecting Piazza di Spagna to the church of Trinità dei Monti. From the top, walk to Villa Borghese, an 80-hectare park filled with art. The Galleria Borghese houses masterpieces by Bernini and Caravaggio, book tickets at least 2-3 weeks ahead!
9. Castel Sant’Angelo & Passeggiata del Gelsomino
Originally Emperor Hadrian’s mausoleum (139 AD), later a fortress and papal residence. Since 2025 you can walk the new Passeggiata del Gelsomino, a 1 km pedestrian path along the old Vatican railway line with views of St. Peter’s, an experience that few tourists know about yet!
10. Taste the ‘Four Kings’ of Roman pasta
Rome is the capital of pasta, and four dishes are its undisputed ‘kings’: Cacio e Pepe (pecorino cheese and black pepper), Carbonara (egg, guanciale, pecorino), Amatriciana (tomato, guanciale, pecorino) and Gricia (guanciale and pecorino, without egg or tomato). Try them in neighbourhoods like Testaccio or Trastevere for an authentic experience.
10+1. Sunset from Terrazza del Pincio
For the perfect Roman moment, head to Terrazza del Pincio at the northern edge of Villa Borghese, above Piazza del Popolo. As the sun dips and bathes the domes and rooftops in golden light, you will understand why this city has enchanted travellers for millennia. And the best part? Completely free! Oh, and do not forget to bring wine or an aperol spritz and snacks for the perfect aperitivo!
Thank you for staying with me until the end of this article ♥. If you are planning a trip to Rome and need help, find me on social media (Instagram or TikTok) or email me at worldtravellen@gmail.com!
FAQ: Things to Do in Rome
Q: How many days do you need in Rome?
A: I recommend at least 3-4 full days to see the major highlights without rushing. With 5 days you can also explore hidden gems, take a day trip, and truly soak in the Roman lifestyle.
Q: What is the best time to visit Rome?
A: Spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) offer the best weather and fewer crowds. Summer is very hot (35°C+) and crowded. Winter is mild (7-13°C) with great hotel deals and shorter lines.
Q: Do I need to book tickets in advance for the Colosseum?
A: Yes! In peak season, tickets sell out days in advance. Book online at least 1-2 weeks ahead. A standard ticket (€16-18) includes the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill and is valid for 24 hours.
Q: Is Rome safe for solo female travelers?
A: Yes, Rome is generally safe for solo female travelers. Use common sense: watch your belongings in crowded areas, be aware of common scams near tourist hotspots, and stick to well-lit streets at night. Trastevere and the Centro Storico feel safe even late in the evening.
Q: What food should I try in Rome?
A: The four iconic Roman pastas: cacio e pepe, carbonara, amatriciana, and gricia. Also try supplì (fried rice balls), pizza al taglio (pizza by the slice), carciofi alla giudia (Jewish-style fried artichokes), and maritozzo (cream-filled brioche) for breakfast.
Q: How much does a trip to Rome cost per day?
A: Budget travelers can manage on €60-80/day (hostel + street food + public transport). Mid-range: €150-250/day (3-star hotel + restaurants + museum tickets). Luxury: €400+/day.
