‌Planning to see the top 10 Rome Italy attractions?‌ Discover the ultimate list of top things to do in Rome, featuring the top 10 places to visit in Rome including the Colosseum, Vatican City, and Trevi Fountain. Plus, get a curated itinerary of the top 10 things to see in Rome in 3 days for first-time visitors. Your perfect guide to Rome's must-see landmarks and hidden gems!

Rome, the capital city of Italy, is a place where history, culture, and art blend seamlessly into a vibrant modern city. As a local who has spent a lifetime exploring every corner of this magnificent city, I am thrilled to share with you my curated list of the top 10 Rome Italy attractions, along with the Top things to do in Rome, the Top 10 places to visit in Rome, and a 3-day itinerary for the Top 10 things to see in Rome in 3 days. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a returning traveler, this guide will help you make the most of your time in Rome.

1. Top 10 Rome Italy Attractions

1.1 The Colosseum

The Colosseum, or Colosseo, is undoubtedly the most iconic symbol of Rome. This ancient amphitheater, built in 70-80 AD, could seat up to 80,000 spectators and was used for gladiatorial contests and public spectacles. Walking through its arches and corridors, you can almost hear the roar of the crowd and the clash of swords. A visit to the Colosseum is a must for anyone interested in ancient history and architecture.

Highlights:

• Explore the underground chambers where gladiators and animals were kept.
• Walk along the top tier for panoramic views of the arena.
• Join a guided tour to learn more about the Colosseum's fascinating history.

1.2 The Roman Forum

Adjacent to the Colosseum, the Roman Forum was the center of political, commercial, and judicial life in ancient Rome. This sprawling complex of ruins includes temples, basilicas, and arches, each telling a story of Rome's glorious past. Strolling through the Forum, you can imagine the bustling activity that once filled this space.

Highlights:

• Visit the Temple of Saturn, dedicated to the god of wealth.
• See the Arch of Septimius Severus, commemorating the emperor's victories.
• Explore the House of the Vestal Virgins, where the priestesses who tended the sacred flame lived.

1.3 The Pantheon

The Pantheon, a former Roman temple and now a church, is a marvel of ancient engineering. Built in 126 AD, it features a massive dome with an oculus (open eye) at the top, allowing natural light to flood the interior. The Pantheon's perfect proportions and harmonious design make it one of the most beautiful buildings in Rome.

Highlights:

• Admire the intricate marble floor and the tombs of famous Italians, including Raphael.
• Stand beneath the oculus and feel the rain or sunlight filtering through.
• Attend a concert or mass to experience the Pantheon's acoustics.

1.4 The Trevi Fountain

The Trevi Fountain, a Baroque masterpiece, is one of the most famous fountains in the world. Designed by Nicola Salvi and completed in 1762, it depicts Oceanus, the god of the sea, riding a chariot pulled by seahorses. Legend has it that tossing a coin into the fountain ensures your return to Rome.

Highlights:

• Toss a coin over your shoulder (with your right hand over your left shoulder) to make a wish.
• Enjoy the fountain's beauty at night when it is illuminated.
• Visit early in the morning to avoid the crowds.

1.5 The Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel

The Vatican Museums house one of the world's greatest art collections, including works by Michelangelo, Raphael, and Leonardo da Vinci. The highlight of the museums is the Sistine Chapel, with its ceiling frescoed by Michelangelo and the Last Judgment on the altar wall. A visit to the Vatican Museums is a journey through the history of art and religion.

Highlights:

• Skip the line with a guided tour to make the most of your time.
• Admire the Raphael Rooms, decorated with frescoes by the Renaissance master.
• Stand in awe beneath the Sistine Chapel's ceiling, a masterpiece of human creativity.

1.6 St. Peter's Basilica

St. Peter's Basilica, the largest church in the world, is the spiritual heart of the Catholic Church. Built on the site of St. Peter's tomb, it features a stunning dome designed by Michelangelo and a lavish interior adorned with marble, gold, and mosaics. Climbing to the top of the dome offers breathtaking views of Rome.

Highlights:

• Visit the tomb of St. Peter beneath the basilica.
• Admire the Pietà, Michelangelo's masterpiece, in the first chapel on the right.
• Climb the 551 steps to the top of the dome for panoramic views.

1.7 The Spanish Steps

The Spanish Steps, a 135-step staircase, connect the Piazza di Spagna with the Piazza Trinità dei Monti. Built in the 18th century, they are a popular meeting place and a symbol of Rome's elegance. The steps are surrounded by luxury shops and cafes, making them a great spot for people-watching.

Highlights:

• Sit on the steps and enjoy a gelato or a coffee.
• Visit the Keats-Shelley Memorial House, dedicated to the English poets.
• Admire the Fontana della Barcaccia, a fountain designed by Pietro Bernini.

1.8 The Capitoline Museums

The Capitoline Museums, located on the Capitoline Hill, are the oldest public museums in the world. They house a vast collection of ancient Roman art and artifacts, including sculptures, paintings, and coins. The museums are housed in two palaces, the Palazzo dei Conservatori and the Palazzo Nuovo, connected by a underground gallery.

Highlights:

• See the Capitoline Wolf, a bronze statue of the she-wolf suckling Romulus and Remus.
• Admire the equestrian statue of Marcus Aurelius, a symbol of Roman power.
• Visit the Tabularium, an ancient Roman archive with stunning views of the Forum.

1.9 The Borghese Gallery

The Borghese Gallery, housed in the Villa Borghese, is a must-visit for art lovers. It features a remarkable collection of sculptures, paintings, and antiquities, including works by Bernini, Caravaggio, and Raphael. The gallery's intimate setting allows you to appreciate the art up close.

Highlights:

• See Bernini's Apollo and Daphne, a masterpiece of Baroque sculpture.
• Admire Caravaggio's Boy with a Basket of Fruit, a realistic and vibrant painting.
• Visit the gardens of Villa Borghese, a peaceful oasis in the heart of Rome.

1.10 The Appian Way

The Appian Way, or Via Appia Antica, is one of the oldest and most important roads in ancient Rome. Built in 312 BC, it connected Rome to the southern regions of Italy. Today, it is a popular cycling and walking route, lined with ruins of tombs, aqueducts, and villas. A visit to the Appian Way is a journey back in time.

Highlights:

• Visit the Catacombs of San Callisto, an underground burial site for early Christians.
• See the Tomb of Cecilia Metella, a massive cylindrical tomb.
• Rent a bike and explore the Appian Way at your own pace.

2. Top Things to Do in Rome

2.1 Explore the Neighborhoods

Rome is a city of neighborhoods, each with its own unique character and charm. From the trendy Trastevere to the historic Monti, exploring the different neighborhoods is a great way to experience Rome like a local.

Recommended Neighborhoods:

• Trastevere: Known for its narrow streets, lively piazzas, and excellent restaurants.
• Monti: A hip and trendy neighborhood with boutique shops, cafes, and street art.
• Testaccio: Famous for its food market, nightlife, and industrial history.

2.2 Attend a Cooking Class

Italian cuisine is world-renowned, and Rome is no exception. Attending a cooking class is a fun and interactive way to learn how to make traditional Roman dishes like pasta carbonara, cacio e pepe, and tiramisu.

Popular Cooking Classes:

• Eat Italy: Offers hands-on cooking classes in a historic Roman apartment.
• Cook in Rome: Provides small-group classes with a focus on authentic Roman recipes.
• The International Kitchen: Offers cooking classes taught by local chefs in a beautiful setting.

2.3 Visit a Local Market

Rome's markets are a feast for the senses, offering fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, and local specialties. Visiting a market is a great way to experience the city's culinary culture and pick up some souvenirs.

Top Markets:

• Campo de' Fiori: A lively market with stalls selling fruits, vegetables, and flowers.
• Mercato di Testaccio: A food market with a wide variety of Italian products.
• Mercato Centrale Roma: A modern food hall with a focus on local and sustainable ingredients.

2.4 Take a Food Tour

Food tours are a great way to sample a variety of Roman dishes and learn about the city's culinary history. Whether you're a foodie or just looking to try something new, a food tour is a must-do in Rome.

Popular Food Tours:

• Eating Italy Food Tours: Offers guided food tours in Trastevere and the Jewish Ghetto.
• The Roman Foodie: Provides small-group food tours with a focus on authentic Roman cuisine.
• Walks of Italy: Offers food tours that combine history, culture, and cuisine.

2.5 Attend a Concert or Opera

Rome is a city of music, with a rich history of classical music and opera. Attending a concert or opera is a great way to experience the city's cultural heritage and enjoy a night out.

Top Venues:

• Teatro dell'Opera di Roma: A historic opera house with a stunning interior.
• Auditorium Parco della Musica: A modern concert venue with a variety of performances.
• Chiesa di Santa Cecilia in Trastevere: A beautiful church that hosts classical music concerts.

2.6 Relax in a Park

Rome has several beautiful parks and gardens where you can escape the hustle and bustle of the city and relax in nature. Whether you're looking for a picnic spot or a place to take a stroll, Rome's parks are a great option.

Top Parks:

• Villa Borghese: A large park with gardens, museums, and a zoo.
• Villa Ada: A scenic park with lakes, walking trails, and a beach.
• Parco degli Acquedotti: A peaceful park with ruins of ancient aqueducts.

3. Top 10 Places to Visit in Rome

3.1 The Vatican City

The Vatican City, the smallest independent state in the world, is the spiritual and administrative center of the Catholic Church. Home to St. Peter's Basilica, the Sistine Chapel, and the Vatican Museums, it is a must-visit for anyone interested in art, history, and religion.

Highlights:

• Visit St. Peter's Basilica and climb to the top of the dome.
• Explore the Vatican Museums and see the Sistine Chapel.
• Attend a papal audience or a mass in St. Peter's Square.

3.2 The Historic Center

The historic center of Rome, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a labyrinth of narrow streets, ancient ruins, and Baroque architecture. From the Colosseum to the Trevi Fountain, it is a treasure trove of historical and cultural landmarks.

Highlights:

• Visit the Colosseum and the Roman Forum.
• See the Pantheon and the Trevi Fountain.
• Stroll through the Piazza Navona and the Piazza di Spagna.

3.3 Trastevere

Trastevere, a charming neighborhood on the west bank of the Tiber River, is known for its narrow streets, lively piazzas, and excellent restaurants. It is a great place to experience Rome's local culture and enjoy a night out.

Highlights:

• Explore the narrow streets and hidden courtyards.
• Visit the Basilica di Santa Maria in Trastevere.
• Enjoy a meal at one of Trastevere's many trattorias.

3.4 The Aventine Hill

The Aventine Hill, one of the seven hills of Rome, offers stunning views of the city and a peaceful escape from the crowds. It is home to several beautiful churches and gardens, including the Orange Garden and the Keyhole Garden.

Highlights:

• Visit the Basilica di Santa Sabina, a 5th-century church.
• See the Keyhole Garden, where you can peer through a keyhole to see a perfect view of St. Peter's Basilica.
• Relax in the Orange Garden, a peaceful oasis with citrus trees and panoramic views.

3.5 The Janiculum Hill

The Janiculum Hill, located on the west bank of the Tiber River, is another great spot for panoramic views of Rome. It is home to the Fontana dell'Acqua Paola, a beautiful fountain, and the Garibaldi Monument, dedicated to the Italian national hero.

Highlights:

• Visit the Fontana dell'Acqua Paola, a Baroque fountain.
• See the Garibaldi Monument, a statue of Giuseppe Garibaldi.
• Enjoy the views of Rome from the hilltop.

3.6 The Catacombs

Rome's catacombs, underground burial sites for early Christians, are a fascinating glimpse into the city's religious history. The most famous catacombs are the Catacombs of San Callisto and the Catacombs of Priscilla.

Highlights:

• Visit the Catacombs of San Callisto, the largest and most important catacombs in Rome.
• See the Catacombs of Priscilla, known for their early Christian frescoes.
• Learn about the history and significance of the catacombs.

3.7 The Baths of Caracalla

The Baths of Caracalla, a vast ancient Roman bath complex, are a testament to the city's engineering and architectural prowess. Built in the 3rd century AD, they could accommodate up to 1,600 bathers and featured a gymnasium, libraries, and gardens.

Highlights:

• Explore the ruins of the baths, including the caldarium, tepidarium, and frigidarium.
• Imagine the daily life of ancient Romans as you walk through the complex.
• Attend a performance at the Baths of Caracalla during the summer months.

3.8 The Villa d'Este

The Villa d'Este, a 16th-century villa in Tivoli, is famous for its spectacular gardens and fountains. Designed by Pirro Ligorio, the gardens feature a series of terraces, grottos, and water features, including the Fountain of the Organ and the Hundred Fountains.

Highlights:

• Visit the Villa d'Este and explore its beautiful gardens.
• See the Fountain of the Organ, which plays music when water flows through it.
• Admire the frescoes and decorations inside the villa.

3.9 The Castel Sant'Angelo

The Castel Sant'Angelo, a fortress and museum located on the banks of the Tiber River, was originally built as a mausoleum for Emperor Hadrian. Over the centuries, it has served as a castle, a prison, and a papal residence. Today, it is a popular tourist attraction with stunning views of Rome.

Highlights:

• Visit the Castel Sant'Angelo and explore its history.
• Climb to the top of the castle for panoramic views of Rome.
• See the Passetto di Borgo, a secret corridor connecting the castle to the Vatican.

3.10 The MAXXI Museum

The MAXXI Museum, a contemporary art museum in Rome, is dedicated to 21st-century art and architecture. Designed by Zaha Hadid, the museum's futuristic design is a work of art in itself. It features a variety of exhibitions, installations, and events.

Highlights:

• Visit the MAXXI Museum and see the latest in contemporary art.
• Attend a lecture or workshop at the museum.
• Explore the museum's architecture and design.

4. Top 10 Things to See in Rome in 3 Days

Day 1: Ancient Rome and the Vatican

Morning:

• Colosseum and Roman Forum: Start your day with a visit to the Colosseum and the Roman Forum. Join a guided tour to learn more about the history and significance of these ancient landmarks.
• Palatine Hill: After the Forum, explore the Palatine Hill, the birthplace of Rome. See the ruins of the imperial palaces and enjoy the panoramic views of the city.

Afternoon:

• Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel: In the afternoon, head to the Vatican Museums and the Sistine Chapel. Skip the line with a guided tour to make the most of your time.
• St. Peter's Basilica: After the museums, visit St. Peter's Basilica. Climb to the top of the dome for breathtaking views of Rome.

Evening:

• Trevi Fountain and Piazza Navona: In the evening, visit the Trevi Fountain and toss a coin to ensure your return to Rome. Then, stroll through the Piazza Navona, a beautiful square with fountains and street performers.

Day 2: Historic Center and Trastevere

Morning:

• Pantheon and Piazza della Rotonda: Start your day with a visit to the Pantheon, one of the most beautiful buildings in Rome. Then, explore the Piazza della Rotonda, a lively square with cafes and shops.
• Piazza di Spagna and Spanish Steps: Next, visit the Piazza di Spagna and the Spanish Steps. Sit on the steps and enjoy a gelato or a coffee.

Afternoon:

• Trastevere: In the afternoon, explore the charming neighborhood of Trastevere. Visit the Basilica di Santa Maria in Trastevere and enjoy a meal at one of Trastevere's many trattorias.
• Villa Borghese: After lunch, visit the Villa Borghese, a large park with gardens, museums, and a zoo. Explore the Borghese Gallery and see the works of Bernini, Caravaggio, and Raphael.

Evening:

• Campo de' Fiori and Piazza Farnese: In the evening, visit the Campo de' Fiori, a lively market square. Then, stroll through the Piazza Farnese, a beautiful square with the Palazzo Farnese.

Day 3: Catacombs, Aventine Hill, and Janiculum Hill

Morning:

• Catacombs of San Callisto: Start your day with a visit to the Catacombs of San Callisto, the largest and most important catacombs in Rome. Learn about the history and significance of the catacombs.
• Aventine Hill: After the catacombs, visit the Aventine Hill. See the Keyhole Garden and the Orange Garden, and enjoy the panoramic views of Rome.

Afternoon:

• Janiculum Hill: In the afternoon, visit the Janiculum Hill. See the Fontana dell'Acqua Paola and the Garibaldi Monument, and enjoy the views of Rome from the hilltop.
• Trastevere (again) or Testaccio: Depending on your interests, you can either return to Trastevere for more exploration or visit Testaccio, a neighborhood known for its food market and nightlife.

Evening:

• Final Dinner and Stroll: End your 3-day trip with a final dinner at a local restaurant. Then, take a stroll through the streets of Rome and soak up the atmosphere of this magnificent city.

Q&A

1. What are the best museums in Rome?

Rome is home to several world-class museums, including the Vatican Museums, the Capitoline Museums, the Borghese Gallery, and the MAXXI Museum. Each museum offers a unique collection of art and artifacts, from ancient Roman sculptures to contemporary installations.

2. What to do in Rome if you're interested in art?

If you're interested in art, Rome is the perfect destination. Visit the Vatican Museums to see the Sistine Chapel and the works of Michelangelo and Raphael. Explore the Borghese Gallery to admire the sculptures of Bernini and the paintings of Caravaggio. Attend a concert or opera at the Teatro dell'Opera di Roma or the Auditorium Parco della Musica.

3. What are the most famous landmarks in Rome?

Rome is famous for its many landmarks, including the Colosseum, the Roman Forum, the Pantheon, the Trevi Fountain, St. Peter's Basilica, and the Vatican Museums. Each landmark tells a story of Rome's rich history and cultural heritage.

4. What are the best places to visit in Rome?

The best places to visit in Rome include the Vatican City, the historic center, Trastevere, the Aventine Hill, the Janiculum Hill, the Catacombs, the Baths of Caracalla, the Villa d'Este, the Castel Sant'Angelo, and the MAXXI Museum. Each place offers a unique experience and a glimpse into Rome's past and present.

5. What is the number 1 must see in Rome?

The number 1 must-see in Rome is undoubtedly the Colosseum. This ancient amphitheater is a symbol of Rome's power and glory, and a visit to the Colosseum is a journey back in time to the days of gladiators and public spectacles. Whether you're a history buff or just looking to see one of the world's most famous landmarks, the Colosseum is a must-visit in Rome.

In conclusion, Rome is a city that offers something for everyone. From ancient ruins to modern art, from delicious food to breathtaking views, the top 10 Rome Italy attractions are just the beginning of what this magnificent city has to offer. Whether you're planning a 3-day itinerary or a longer stay, I hope this guide has inspired you to explore the Top things to do in Rome, the Top 10 places to visit in Rome, and the Top 10 things to see in Rome in 3 days. Buon viaggio!