Top 10 Best Things / Activities To Do In Rome, Italy

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Rome is known as much more than the Italian capital. It’s an eternal city, with rich culture, history, architecture, vibrant nightlife, wine, food, music and so much more. Many historical persons were born, raised or lived a big part of their lives in the City of Rome, which also contributes to its widespread popularity among tourists. Additionally, it made an appearance in the 2010’s Assassin’s Creed: Brotherhood, where Renaissance Rome is depicted with unprecedented detail and accuracy. In this article, we’ve highlighted the top 10 things to do in Rome, Italy, good places to make memories. Read on!

#1 – The Colosseum

If you haven’t visited the Colosseum, have you even gone to Rome? This mighty structure was built between 70 and 80 AD, to host the marvelous, yet brutal Gladiator fights which were known across the Roman Empire and even further. This place could hold up to 80,000 spectators that would pay the high price to watch vicious fights for life. Nevertheless, more often than not, the Colosseum also hosted different forms of entertainment. It boasts strong and innovative structure, with unique angles which contribute to how colossal it is. Make sure to enter the arena stage, to admire the marvel behind this ancient monument.

#2 – St. Peter’s Square

You don’t need to be ultimately religious to visit the Vatican, the nation-state within the city of Rome, and the crib of Catholic Christianity as we know it. It’s worth seeing its rich architecture, detail and dedication behind every pillar, tile, and architecture on it. The area is so colossal, it will make you feel tiny as you approach this iconic place that has hosted various events throughout Roman history. It’s worth noting that this place doesn’t only boast the Roman elements, if you approach the center of the square, make sure to spot the Obelisk taken from Nero’s Circus. This is usually used as the starting point of exploring the Vatican, although be wary, the place is crowded and you may need to watch out for pickpockets.

#3 – St. Peter’s Basilica

St. Peter’s Basilica is likely considered one of the most significant buildings in Christianity, and a true jewel of Rome, which showcases the power of the Catholic religion, attracting many religious people who find joy and peace exploring its depths. It is located at St. Peter’s Square so it won’t be hard to locate. The detail, patterns and colors used for its design just show the truthfulness of the phrase “Rome wasn’t built in a day.” The interior is considered one of the most gorgeous buildings in the world, with both Michelangelo and Bernini investing their talent to make its appearance as divine and mesmerizing.

#4 – The Pantheon

Another of the most popular attractions in Rome was built in 118 AD as requested by then emperor Hadrian. The exterior boasts a rectangular design with tall, decorated pillars and a dedication to Agrippa, who commissioned the temple that stood at the spot before the Pantheon was built. The interior is flattered by divine artwork as well as different stone patterns.

#5 – Trevi Fountain

There are many fountains in the world but none may leave just as strong an impression on you as the Trevi Fountain in Rome, and visiting it is a must-do among the top 10 things to do in Rome, Italy. No fountain in the world appears as well-decorated, lavishly sculptured and divine as the Trevi fountain.

It is of newer construction compared to the other buildings we’ve mentioned, being built by Nicola Salvi in 1762. The fountain serves as a tribute to the Roman God Oceanus. Visiting the Fountain de Trevi has become a tradition of visiting Rome, and many tourists pay tribute to it by throwing coins into the water over their shoulder for good fortune. If you don’t know what to do in your free time, visiting the Trevi fountain is among the best 10 things to do in Rome.

#6 – Spanish Steps

The Spanish Steps are located in the Piazza di Spagna and have become one of the most popular attractions to take photos and take a break, although Rome recently banned sitting on the steps. The 135 Spanish Steps were constructed in 1725 to merge Piazza di Spagna with the Piazza Trinita dei Monti. At the bottom of the steps, there is a plethora of shops to buy souvenirs and different crafts, as well as various cafes.

#7 –  Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore

As we mentioned above, there are plenty of religious monuments in Rome, and among the 10 things to do in Rome is visiting Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore, which hosts a beautiful structure with many religious and historical architectural elements. It’s one of the largest churches in Rome, located at the square of the same name.

#8 – Piazza Navona

The Piazza Navona has been a popular Roman structure built in the 15th century, relatively close to the Pantheon and Trevi Fountain, so you should consider joining it into the tour. There are many street artists and vendors, so visiting this place is great for relaxing and buying souvenirs, while enjoying the Roman architecture. There are some notable elements in the square such as the Palazzo Braschi, Fontana del Moro and Fountain of Neptune.

#9 – Roman Forum

If you’re looking for more ancient Rome architecture, the Roman Forum is one of the best 10 things to see in Rome. The place is home to different statues, ancient temples and arches, including the temples of Saturn, Titus, and Vesta, and the Arch of Severus. Most of these structures are still standing solid today, while some arches only have remains hanging around. Being close to the Colosseum, it would be easy to add the Forum into your Roman tour.

#10 – Sistine Chapel

The Sistine Chapel is located in Vatican City and visiting it is important among the 10 things to do in Rome. It was extensively renovated during the 1400’s with detailed decorations, paintings, frescoes and more by Michelangelo, as well as historic ceiling artwork. The magnificent and detailed artwork in the chapel are considered priceless, as well as among the most influential artwork in the Christian religion.

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