The Proper Traveler

#10 - Palatine Hill

Starting with one of the most important attractions for any first-time visitor to Rome - the Palatine Hill is what started it all. According to Roman mythology, this was the site of a cave where Remus and Romulus were found by the she-wolf, and later founded by Evander of Pallene. Historically, this was the site of the original Romans about 10th century BC. Rome then eventually expanded outside of this hill. It’s an important place to start on your first-time trip to Rome.

#9 - Tiber River

The Tiber River stretches for 252 miles. It flows all the way through Rome and into the Tyrrhenian Sea. Near this river, you can find countless shops, restaurants, hotels, and even some makeshift gardens. It’s the perfect place to unwind and take in the beauty of this ancient city.

#8 - Castel Sant’ Angelo

Many will overlook this gem (as did I my first trip to Rome), but the Castel Sant’Angelo is worth a visit. It was initially built as a mausoleum for emperor Hadrian and his family, beginning in 138 AD. Once their bodies were cremated, they were put in the tomb within the building. This went on from 138-217 AD, serving as the tomb for many emperors during that time. The last emperor to have his remains in the tomb was emperor Caracalla. Over time, Castel Sant’Angelo was used as a fortress, a church, and a prison. Today, it serves as a museum of times past. If you’re looking for a nice place to take photos of the city, this is a great location to get one!

# 7 - Gelateria Fassi

We were told the best place to get a gelato in Rome was this place - Gelateria Fassi. It is considered the oldest-running gelato shop in Rome, dating back to around 1880. Here, you can get many different flavours to tickle anyone’s fancy. Although it’s usually a bad sign to see so many flavours, that doesn’t really matter here. Everything is absolutely delicious and made from scratch. It’s also big enough inside so you won’t be bumping into people and trying to get your cone. Definitely worth a visit if you want a nice gelato experience in the city.

#6 - Pantheon

One of the most visited sites in Rome, the Pantheon is one of the very symbols of Rome. It was originally used as a temple to worship the gods in ancient Rome. It was built by Agrippa between 25-27 AD and has a unique style to it that was later used throughout Rome and the ancient world. The oculus (the hole in the centre) provided many functions including practical reasons with the engineering and architecture, along with symbolism. The oculus represents the “window to the other world,” where the gods can live with the mortals.

#5 - Trevi Fountain

Perhaps one of the most iconic places in all of Rome is the Trevi Fountain. Have you really been to Rome if you haven’t been to the Trevi Fountain? Tradition says that if you throw a coin into the fountain, that means you’ll come back to Rome at another point in your life. I guess it’s true because it worked for me! Unfortunately, when we came this year, it was blocked off as they’re working on preserving the old fountain. Rumour has it that once they open it up again, they are going to begin charging tourists to come up and throw their coins. Whether that’s true or not, we think it’s still worth it to see this beautiful fountain!

#4 - The Roman Catacombs

If you are afraid of the dark or have claustrophobia, maybe stay away from this one. The ancient Roman catacombs were originally used as burials underground the city. The catacombs stretch more than 400 miles underground. You will definitely not see it all (you should also stay with your guide, as many wanderers get lost and can’t find their way out). Although the exact number is contested, it is believed that many early Christians hid in the catacombs to escape persecution, as Rome at the time did not tolerate Christianity. There are frescos on some of the walls that you can still see today, as it was also a place for many Christians to worship in secret.

#3 - Vatican City

Speaking of Christians, the Vatican is essentially the “headquarters” for Catholicism. It is a micro-country within the city of Rome that is comprised of St. Peter’s Basilica, the Vatican Museum, the Sistine Chapel, living quarters, and gardens. It is where the pope, some clergy, and the Swiss guards reside. Although Vatican City officially became its own country in 1929, the buildings, such as St Peter’s Basilica, were around much longer. For example, St Peter’s Basilica took more than 100 years to be built, completing construction in 1615. Many find the construction controversial, as it was funded by the selling of indulgences, but it is also a very beautiful basilica nonetheless. When you enter, please make sure you have already purchased your tickets for the museum and Sistine Chapel. Entrance to the basilica is free and you can stay as long as you’d like.

#2 - Roman Forum

For those who are big into history and archeology, this will be a treat for you! The Roman Forum is an archeological site of the ancient city of Rome. As you wander through, you’ll be able to see what’s left of the old market square. This was the centre of cultural life in ancient Rome, as it was the place for elections, speeches, gladiator matches, and criminal charges. It was where everything happened, essentially, and is conveniently near our #1 spot on our list.

#1 - Colosseum

Come on, did you really think the colosseum wouldn’t be #1? It holds not just as the icon of Rome, but the entire country of Italy. You already know what the colosseum was used for, but while you’re on your tour, you’ll learn some misconceptions and myths about the colosseum that are simply not true. I’ll leave that for you to learn about on your trip! The colosseum is a masterpiece and something truly spectacular to look at. Be sure to plan early so you get plenty of time inside. You’ll want to spend at least an hour inside to take it all in!

Top 10 Must-Do Attractions in Rome, Italy