Rome: from the Colosseum to the Trevi Fountain

Rome is called the Eternal City: ancient ruins, Renaissance palaces and Baroque fountains stand side by side within a few kilometres of the historic centre. Below are the 7 main sights of Rome to start with, from the Colosseum to the Trevi Fountain.

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1. Colosseum (Colosseo)

The largest amphitheatre of the ancient world, built in the 1st century AD. Gladiator fights and shows for tens of thousands of spectators were held here. A Colosseum ticket usually also covers the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill, and it is best bought online in advance.

2. Roman Forum (Forum Romanum)

The heart of ancient Rome, with temples, basilicas and triumphal arches, where assemblies, trials and processions took place. The Forum grew over more than a thousand years and is now a large archaeological area next to the Colosseum.

3. Pantheon

The temple of all the gods, built in its current form under Emperor Hadrian around 125 AD. Its concrete dome with the oculus is still one of the largest in the world. In 609 the Pantheon was consecrated as a church, which is why it is so well preserved.

4. Sistine Chapel (Cappella Sistina)

A chapel in the Apostolic Palace of the Vatican, built in 1473-1481 under Pope Sixtus IV. Michelangelo painted the ceiling with the Creation of Adam in 1508-1512 and later the Last Judgement on the altar wall. The chapel is entered through the Vatican Museums.

5. Trevi Fountain (Fontana di Trevi)

Rome's most famous Baroque fountain, designed by Nicola Salvi and completed in 1762. Tradition says you should toss a coin over your shoulder to return to Rome. Come early in the morning to see it without the crowds.

6. Vatican and St. Peter's Basilica

The world's smallest state, inside Rome. It is home to St. Peter's Basilica with Michelangelo's dome, St. Peter's Square with Bernini's colonnade and the Vatican Museums. The basilica has a dress code: shoulders and knees covered.

7. Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore

One of the four major papal basilicas of Rome. The current 5th-century building keeps its ancient mosaics. Legend says the site was marked by snow that fell in summer, so it is also known as Our Lady of the Snows.

Tips for a trip to Rome

Buy tickets for the Colosseum and the Vatican Museums online in advance, especially in high season.
Most central sights are walkable, and the metro is the easiest way to the Vatican.
For St. Peter's and other churches, wear clothes that cover shoulders and knees.
The Pantheon, the Trevi Fountain and Piazza Navona fit nicely into one walk.