One Day in Rome | Top 10 Places to visit

Rome, also called the eternal city because of its own beauty, contrast and life. Rome is more than just a city with great buildings, it also contains a state inside of it: The Vatican.

The Vatican is the center of the religious world of Catholic Church, and is where a lot of important events take place. Rome was also the center of the Roman Empire, which gave to the city an amazing feeling and a bunch of early historic ruins.

This city is a big place to be visited in just one day, but still, if you have only one day to marvel Rome, we are giving the top 10 places that are a must-visit! As first-time visitors, you will for sure need a good orientation and if you want to enjoy the most of Rome, get a guide around the city.

1. St Peter’s Square

 St. Peter’s Square is an iconic place where many significant events have taken place. It is where the independent State of Vatican, being the most important site in the Christian world holds its religious events.

This square is located at the front of the Vatican state. The St Peter’s Square is in a circular shape and is framed by two gorgeous sets of colonnades. It is on top of these colonnades, that are placed beautiful statues of various religious figures and most famous popes.

There is an imposing obelisk in the center of the square, which was taken from Nero’s Circus and looks more Egyptian than Roman.

At the far end of the square stands the iconic St Peter’s Basilica and in front of this, a set of chairs are usually set out for papal ceremonies.

Take in the enormity of the square, see the crowd of people hoping to catch a glimpse of the Pope and use this as a starting point to explore the Vatican.

Make sure you are managing the time while visiting Rome, it is a great city to make time fly by. If you are tight in time, buy a city tour and make sure you are in the right hands!

2. Colosseum

 Colosseum is the most iconic structure in Italy, it is the no.1 representative sign of Rome without a doubt. Whatever you are planning to visit in Rome, there is no way you can leave out of your plan The Grand Colosseum.

The Colosseum, also known as the Flavian Amphitheatre, was built somewhere between 70-80 AD and at its peak was estimated to hold 80,000 spectators.

This building was used for gladiator tournaments, games and other forms of entertainment and would regularly be attended by the Roman Emperors.

It is located in the south-west of the main terminus train station and you can easily access to it since it has a metro station in proximity.

Marvel at this famous structure from all angles, and ensure that you brave the queues and step inside to truly appreciate the enormity of this ancient place of celebration.

3.St. Peters Basilica

 St. Peter’s Basilica is possibly the most recognizable and celebrated religious building in the world and stands as representative of the power and decadence of the catholic religion.

This piece of amusement stands at the far end of St. Peter’s square and owns a beautiful design front facade and there is more, it shows the statues of the Apostles and Jesus.

The architecture and decoration inside the Basilica are astonishing and it is considered as one of the most beautiful buildings in the world. 

Have no doubt, you will be amazed at the decoration and the rich details, and how the light falls in stunning rays at certain points during the day.

The design was planned by both Michelangelo and Bernini and you can see their handiwork in the immense dome and stunning Gloria sculpture.

Do not leave the building without climbing the top of the dome to see an aerial view of St. Peter’s Square!

4.The Pantheon

 When it comes to Roman buildings, the mighty Pantheon stands as one of the best-preserved ancient buildings in the world and it is definitely a must visit in Rome.

At the front of the building, there is a rectangular porch lined with huge columns and a triangular pediment where is placed a dedication to Agrippa.

The building was constructed in 118 AD by emperor Hadrian. The interior exposes a magnificent dome with series of stone patterns and a central coffer that allows light to spill through.

The Pantheon is located in the center of Rome on the Piazza della Rotonda, famous for its presence, the pantheon is another must-visit in Rome.

5.Trevi Fountain

 There are not many other fountains in the world as lavishly decorated and sculptured as the Trevi fountain.

This Fountain is a marvelous structure constructed in 1762 by Nicola Salvi. It pays tribute to the Roman God Oceanus who can be seen riding his chariot pulled by Tritons and taming several Hippocamps.

The wonderful details of this sculpture are simply amazing and the whole facade and fountain are a true work of art.

It has become a tradition to throw coins into the water over your shoulder for good luck although trying to do so next to hundreds of other tourists might prove difficult! Located in close proximity to the Pantheon and Quirinale palace, this fountain should not be passed up on when walking through the streets of Rome.

6. Spanish Steps

 The 135 Spanish Steps are located in the Piazza di Spagna and the Piazza Trinita dei Monti. Each one of the 135 steps features a wide stone ledge, framed by stone walls. These stairs were constructed in 1725 to span the gap and slope between these two popular squares.

At the top of the steps, you will find a big crucifix obelisk, and at the bottom of the steps, the Piazza di Spagna is quite wide, and various shops and cafes. Also, at the top of the stairs is the church of Trinita dei Monti which is a fine attraction in Rome.

7. Roman Forum

 Here is another great testimony of Roman ruins in Italy and an important attraction to most of the tourists visiting Rome.

The Roman Forum is an ancient site that consists of many ruins that were once the center of Roman public and political life.

Various squares, temples and arches stood here including the temples of Saturn, Titus and Vesta and the Arch of Severus.

Between these structures, most of them still stand today and you can still see the arches and building foundations and walls.

The Roman Forum is located next to the Colosseum and the Altar of the Fatherland, it is really an important site to be considered while being in Rome.

Tickets can be bought for entry to both the Forum and the Colosseum and it is advised to book ahead and allow ample time to properly explore the ruins and learn about the history of this place.

8. Vatican Museums

 Located in the territory of the Vatican State, the museums hold over 70,000 pieces of artwork.

Vatican museums have been built up over many centuries by various popes and include some of the most important treasure troves of classical and historical artwork in the world. 

You can purchase a dual ticket to see both the Sistine Chapel and the museums and it is advised to devote enough time to see both properly.

Divided into different sections, the museums include the Museum Chiaramonti, the Museo Gregoriano Etrusco the Museo Pio-Clementino and the Museo Gregoriano Egiziano each of which contains different artworks and themes.

Notable pieces are the Entombment of Christ by Caravaggio, the Transfiguration by Raphael, and the breathtaking gallery of maps.

9. Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore

Rome is full of fantastic religious and historical buildings and the Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore is part of such structures.

Listed as a Basilica Major, it is one of the largest churches in Rome and is located in the Piazza of the same name.

The front face of this magnificent building features a central array of stone columns topped with statues and many inscriptions.

Furthermore, there is also a large bell tower that rises above the surrounding buildings.

Whilst the outside is stunning in its own right, the interior is simply breathtaking and features a huge amount of gold decoration, frescos and detailed paintings both on the walls and ceilings.

Of particular interest is the Borghese chapel that features some beautiful paintings and gold sculptures.

10. Ponte Sant Angelo

 The bridge of Saint Angelo spans the epic River Tiber and creates a footpath between the Castel Sant’Angelo and the near side of the river.

This bridge opens up directly from the front of the castle, has great symmetry and it is considered one of the most beautiful and decorative bridges in Rome.

Created with a face of travertine marble, the bridge stands out against the sometimes murky colours of the Tiber and offers some fantastic photographic opportunities.

The 10 angel statues are the main feature of this bridge. These angels have fantastic detail and each is carrying a different object of significance.