Top 20 things to do in Rome Italy
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The Colosseum: An iconic symbol of Ancient Rome, this massive amphitheater once hosted gladiatorial contests and public spectacles. You can book a guided tour to explore its fascinating history and even walk on the reconstructed arena floor.
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The Roman Forum and Palatine Hill: Located next to the Colosseum, these are the ruins of what was once the center of public life in Ancient Rome. A combined ticket with the Colosseum is a great way to explore both.
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The Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel: Housing one of the world's most extensive art collections, the Vatican Museums are a must-see. The highlight for many is the breathtaking Sistine Chapel, with Michelangelo's famous frescoed ceiling.
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St. Peter's Basilica: The spiritual heart of the Catholic Church, this massive basilica is a masterpiece of Renaissance architecture. Don't miss Michelangelo's Pietà and the opportunity to climb the dome for a panoramic view of Rome.
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The Pantheon: This ancient Roman temple, with its remarkable unsupported concrete dome, is one of the best-preserved buildings from antiquity. It's a testament to Roman engineering and is now a church.
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Link: Pantheon official site
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Trevi Fountain: This stunning Baroque fountain is a masterpiece of sculpture and is arguably the most famous fountain in the world. Tradition holds that if you throw a coin over your shoulder into the fountain, you will one day return to Rome.
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Spanish Steps: A monumental staircase of 138 steps, the Spanish Steps connect the Piazza di Spagna at the base with the Trinità dei Monti church at the top. It's a popular spot for relaxing and people-watching.
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Piazza Navona: This elegant and lively square is a showcase of Baroque art and architecture, featuring Bernini's famous Fountain of Four Rivers. It's a great place to enjoy a coffee, listen to street artists, and soak in the atmosphere.
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Trastevere Neighborhood: This charming, bohemian quarter on the west bank of the Tiber River is known for its narrow, cobblestone streets, ivy-covered buildings, and traditional Roman restaurants and bars. It's perfect for an evening stroll and a delicious meal.
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Castel Sant'Angelo: Originally built as a mausoleum for Emperor Hadrian, this fortress has served as a papal residence and prison. You can climb to the top for amazing views of the city and the Tiber River.
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Galleria Borghese: Located in the beautiful Villa Borghese park, this museum houses an exceptional collection of sculptures by Bernini and paintings by Caravaggio, Raphael, and Titian.
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Capitoline Museums: Situated on the Capitoline Hill, these are considered the world's first public museums. They contain a vast collection of ancient Roman sculptures and artifacts.
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Campo de' Fiori: A lively and historic square, it is home to a bustling daily market where you can find fresh produce, flowers, and local goods.
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Via Appia Antica (Appian Way): One of the oldest and most important roads of the Roman Republic, this is a perfect spot for a leisurely walk or bike ride, with ancient catacombs and monuments lining the route.
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Link: Appian Way information
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The Mouth of Truth (Bocca della Verità): A marble mask located in the portico of the Santa Maria in Cosmedin church, legend has it that if a liar places their hand in the mouth, it will be bitten off.
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Take a Food Tour: Rome's culinary scene is as rich as its history. A food tour is a great way to discover hidden gems and sample authentic Roman dishes like cacio e pepe, supplì, and, of course, gelato.
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Link: Rome food tours
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Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore: As one of the four papal basilicas in Rome, this is the largest Marian church in the city and boasts stunning mosaics and a beautiful bell tower.
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Villa Borghese Gardens: Escape the urban bustle in this expansive public park, where you can rent a boat on a small lake, explore walking paths, and visit the Borghese Gallery.
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Catacombs of Rome: Delve into a different side of history by exploring the underground burial chambers used by early Christians and Jews.
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Test the keyhole on the Aventine Hill: For a truly unique view, look through the keyhole of the Priory of the Knights of Malta on Aventine Hill to see St. Peter's Dome perfectly framed at the end of a tree-lined avenue.