Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Rome

While visiting Rome, you’ll likely be tempted to visit the Pantheon and Colosseum. But before you book your tickets to these historic sites, make sure to read about other top-rated attractions in the Italian capital. This article will offer some tips on what to see and avoid in these historic sites. And don’t forget the Vatican Museum. While this city is full of beautiful, iconic buildings, it’s important to keep in mind the importance of balance and intersperse ancient sites with the more popular tourist icons.
Pantheon
The Pantheon is one of the most important historical buildings in Rome. This massive building is one of the few structures from ancient Rome that has been deliberately master-crafted to stand out in contrast to the surrounding environment. The entrance boasts two bronze doors measuring twelve meters and seven meters, respectively. You can also take in the intricately-designed pavement that is made of grey granite, Phrygian purple, and Numidian yellow marble.
The Pantheon is free to enter, but you may also wish to take an audioguide to understand the building’s history. A guided tour is also available if you’re not a member of the hotel’s concierge service. To make the most of your visit to the Pantheon, you should consider visiting it early in the morning. After all, the monument is most impressive when the sun rises and sets in the background, allowing you to snap a stunning photo.
Colosseum
One of the most popular sights in Rome is the Colosseum, an amphitheater that drew seven million visitors in 2010. If you want to get in and see all the sights, go early in the morning or late in the evening. Visitors who purchase advance tickets or passes will have the easiest time navigating the line. This is the largest monument in the city, with a lot of history. The amphitheater was begun by Vespasian in 72 AD, and was completed by his successor, Titus.
If you’re looking for an ancient Roman ruin, the Pantheon is another excellent place to visit. Built by Hadrian in 118 AD, this magnificent building was originally a temple for the god Oceanus. The monument was designed to honor the god Oceanus, who rides a chariot pulled by Tritons and tames Hippocamps. While you’re there, throw a coin into the fountain. Locals believe that it’s lucky to throw coins into it. It’s close to the Pantheon and the Quirinale palace.
Villa Borghese
If you love flowers and are looking for the most beautiful gardens in the city, visit the Villa Borghese. This 18th century palace features a magnificent botanical garden and amphitheater. Visitors can listen to live music or simply relax in the sun while enjoying the beautiful views of Rome. You can even rent rollerblades or bicycles to get around the garden. Whether you prefer to relax or get some exercise, Villa Borghese is a must-visit in Rome.
In the summertime, you can visit the Villa Borghese for its lush garden and lake. You can even rent rowboats and row across the lake, with beautiful views of Rome. You can also visit the Bioparco, an historical zoo featuring over 200 species of animals. The Globe Theatre is an exact replica of the famous London theatre. While you’re at Villa Borghese, you should not miss a performance.
Vatican Museum
If you’re visiting Rome, you have probably already been to the Vatican Museum. But if you haven’t, it’s a must-see! The museum houses the famous Sistine Chapel, where Michelangelo painted the Giudizio Universale, which depicts Christ passing judgment on the souls of the dead. Christ sits at the center, near the top of the piece. The souls are torn from their graves and brought to the center of the painting. Those who are saved stay in heaven while those who are damned are sent to hell.
The Vatican Museums are so big that they receive over six million visitors each year! Those who haven’t been before may not know what to look for. Guided tours are available, and can point out the most important pieces and explain their significance. You can also take a guided tour through the museum’s rooms to learn more. There are many different things you can see at the Vatican, but the Sistine Chapel is one of the top attractions.
Sistine Chapel
The frescos of the Sistine Chapel are among the most famous and important works of art in the world. The central panels of the chapel depict the creation of the world as described in the book of Genesis. The paintings have been a central theme in Western Civilization since its creation. One of the most striking fresco is of the creation of Adam and Eve, which was painted by Botticelli. Another one depicts the Destruction of the Pharaoh’s Army.
While the Sistine Chapel is an iconic site in the world, it is also known for being incredibly crowded. Visitors often complain that it is impossible to take in the beauty of the works. The staff at the Vatican Museum strictly enforces no photography rules, so if you are taking photos, make sure you delete them immediately. Then, move on to the next attraction on your list.