Rome is a city where history is always within reach — from imperial ruins to Renaissance artistry and baroque fountains. Walking through the Eternal City feels like traveling through time, with every landmark revealing a new layer of its 2,000-year legacy.
Here are the top 10 famous landmarks in Rome you absolutely must visit.
1. The Colosseum
The Colosseum is Rome’s most famous landmark and the largest ancient amphitheater in the world. Built in A.D. 80 under Emperor Titus, this mighty arena once hosted gladiator battles, animal hunts and dramatic reenactments for roaring crowds of up to 50,000. Its elliptical design, tiered seating and underground chambers reveal the architectural brilliance of Ancient Rome.
Fun Fact: The Colosseum had a retractable awning system, known as the velarium, to shade spectators from the sun.
2. The Roman Forum
The Roman Forum was once the heart of ancient Roman life, where politics, commerce and religion converged. Today, this sprawling archaeological site is filled with remnants of temples, basilicas and public spaces that paint a vivid picture of Rome's imperial past. It is one of the most immersive landmarks to visit in Rome for history lovers.
Fun Fact: Julius Caesar was cremated in the Forum and visitors still leave flowers at the remains of his altar near the Temple of Caesar.
3. The Pantheon
Among the best-preserved Rome landmarks, the Pantheon is an architectural masterpiece built in A.D. 126. Its massive concrete dome with a central oculus continues to astonish engineers and visitors alike. Originally a pagan temple and now a church, it houses the tombs of artist Raphael and Italian royalty.
Fun Fact: The diameter of the dome is exactly equal to its height — 142 feet — creating a perfect sphere inside the structure.
4. St. Peter’s Basilica
Located in Vatican City, St. Peter’s Basilica is one of the holiest and most impressive churches in the world. Designed by artistic legends like Michelangelo and Bernini, its soaring dome and intricate interior make it one of the most famous landmarks in Rome. Visitors can explore the vast nave, admire the Pietà and climb to the top of the dome for views across the city.
Fun Fact: The dome of St. Peter’s Basilica is the tallest in the world, rising to about 448 feet from the floor to the top of the cross.
5. The Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel
The Vatican Museums are home to one of the world’s richest art collections. Spanning multiple galleries, halls and chapels, they feature works by Raphael, Caravaggio and Michelangelo. The Sistine Chapel, with its ceiling frescoes and Last Judgment wall, is a bucket-list experience for anyone visiting Rome landmarks.
Fun Fact: Michelangelo painted the Sistine Chapel ceiling in just four years — working entirely from scaffolding while standing upright.
6. Trevi Fountain
The Trevi Fountain is one of the most visited and photographed landmarks in Rome. This dramatic Baroque fountain depicts the god Oceanus flanked by sea horses and tritons. Legend has it that tossing a coin over your left shoulder ensures you’ll return to Rome.
Fun Fact: Approximately €3,000 worth of coins are thrown into the Trevi Fountain every day and the money is used to support local charities.
7. The Spanish Steps
Built in the 18th century, the Spanish Steps connect Piazza di Spagna with the church of Trinità dei Monti above. With 135 steps, the staircase has long been a popular gathering spot for both locals and travelers. It's one of the most charming Rome landmarks, perfect for people-watching or snapping a golden hour photo.
Fun Fact: The Spanish Steps were famously featured in the 1953 film "Roman Holiday," helping turn Audrey Hepburn into a global icon.
8. Piazza Navona
Piazza Navona is a lively, elegant square that sits atop the ruins of a first-century Roman stadium. Today, it's lined with restaurants, galleries and three stunning fountains — including Bernini’s Fountain of the Four Rivers, which represents the world’s major rivers. The energy here is infectious, with street performers, artists and locals enjoying la dolce vita.
Fun Fact: In the 1600s, Pope Innocent X ordered the square to be flooded on weekends in summer for nobles to ride their carriages through the shallow waters and cool off.
9. Castel Sant’Angelo
Originally constructed as Emperor Hadrian’s tomb, Castel Sant’Angelo has served many purposes throughout history, including as a fortress and papal refuge. Today, it is a museum offering panoramic views of the Tiber River and Vatican City. The round silhouette and rich history make it one of the most fascinating Rome landmarks.
Fun Fact: A secret passageway called the Passetto di Borgo links the castle to St. Peter’s Basilica — used by popes to escape danger during sieges.
10. Altare della Patria (Victor Emmanuel II Monument)
Towering over Piazza Venezia, the Altare della Patria is a massive white marble monument dedicated to Italy’s first king, Victor Emmanuel II. Often referred to as the “Altar of the Fatherland,” this bold landmark features grand staircases, Corinthian columns and a rooftop terrace with incredible views. It’s a striking modern addition to the city’s historic skyline.
Fun Fact: Nicknamed “The Wedding Cake” by locals because of its multi-layered design, the monument’s rooftop terrace offers some of the best panoramic views in Rome.
Exploring the Most Famous Landmarks in Rome
Whether you’re wandering through ancient ruins or admiring Renaissance masterpieces, these landmarks to visit in Rome each reveal something extraordinary about the city’s past and present. From the Colosseum to the Vatican Museums, Rome’s most iconic attractions continue to inspire awe in travelers from around the world.
Landmark Excursions in Rome
Want to see these iconic Rome landmarks in person? These shore excursions make it easy to explore the city’s top attractions with expert guides and seamless transfers:
- Imperial Rome With Colosseum Arena, Roman Forum & St. Peter's Square – Step into ancient history with guided visits to Rome’s most iconic ruins and Vatican highlights.
- A Taste of Rome: Roman Forum, Trevi Fountain & St. Peter's Square – See three of the most famous landmarks in Rome in one immersive tour, including the Colosseum exterior.
- Inside the Colosseum – One of the Wonders of the World – Walk the arena floor of the Colosseum and continue on to the Roman Forum and Piazza Navona.
- Best of Rome – Small Group – Visit the Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel, St. Peter’s Square and admire exterior views of the Colosseum and Roman Forum.
- Classic Rome With Lunch – Small Group – Discover a curated mix of Rome landmarks, including St. Peter’s Basilica, Trevi Fountain and the Colosseum.
Planning a Visit to Rome? Explore More Inspiration & Tips:
- What is Rome, Italy Known For? – Discover the key elements that make Rome unforgettable, from ancient ruins to timeless culture.
- Best Ways to Get Around Rome – Get practical travel advice on moving between the city’s top sights and experiences.
- Best Shore Excursions in Rome, Italy – See curated shore excursions that bring iconic Rome landmarks like the Colosseum, Vatican, Trevi Fountain, and Pantheon to life.
