View of the Colosseum in Rome

Rome

Sights and landmarks in Rome

Littered with celebrated sites and ancient structures, few cities can compete with Rome when it comes to historic appeal. Vast areas of the capital appear to be stuck in time, with ancient Roman ruins, impressive churches and captivating architecture dominating the skyline. Hotel Eden is ideally located to explore many of the city’s must-see attractions. Whether it’s your first visit or your 100th, discover the best that Rome has to offer with this two-day itinerary of classic Roman sites.

Day one

Start the day with a leisurely 10-minute walk to the Spanish Steps.
Piazza di Spagna, 00187 Rome

Spanish Steps

Arguably the most recognisable staircase in the world, the Spanish Steps is one of the city’s leading sites. Located in the heart of ancient Rome, these 135 steps connect Piazza di Spagni with Trinità dei Monti, a Renaissance church that towers over the stairway. Originally a meeting place for elite society, the steps are now a popular place for photographs and proposals.

Next, take a 10-minute walk to the Trevi Fountain.

View of the Spanish steps and Trinità dei Monti from Piazza di Spagna in Rome
Panoramic view of the Trevi fountain in Rome
Piazza di Trevi, 00187 Rome

Trevi Fountain

Of all of Rome’s fountains, the Trevi Fountain is the most iconic. Designed by Italian architect Nicola Salvi, the Baroque fountain stands in front of Palazzo Poli. In its centre is a statue of Neptune, God of the sea, riding a shell chariot pulled by sea horses. If you believe the superstitions, throw a coin into the water for good luck.

To reach The Colosseum, take a 10-minute taxi ride or a 20-minute walk.

T: +39 06 3996 7700 | Piazza del Colosseo 1, 00186 Rome

The Colosseum

The Colosseum is perhaps the most important surviving amphitheatre in the world. Dating back to AD80, the stadium was a major part of life in Roman times. In its heyday, the giant stadium welcomed over 50,000 spectators (often including the Emperor) for gruesome gladiator games and wild animal fights.

From The Colosseum, take a 10-minute walk to the entrance of the Roman Forum.

View from afar of the Colosseum in Rome
View of the archeological site of the Roman Forum and its ruins in Rome
T: +39 06 3996 7700 | Via della Salara Vecchia, 00186 Rome

Roman Forum

A highlight for history enthusiasts, the Roman Forum is a sprawling archaeological site littered with Roman ruins, temples and basilicas. Contrasting with the surrounding cityscape, it offers an eye-opening insight into ancient Roman life, with several monuments dating back to the 2nd century. Don’t miss landmark attractions like the Arch of Septimius Severus and the Temple of Saturn.

The next location is a 20-minute drive from the Forum.

T: +39 06 32810 | Piazzale Scipione Borghese 5, 00197 Rome

Galleria Borghese

An art gallery set within the Villa Borghese gardens, Galleria Borghese houses one of Rome’s greatest art collections: the Borghese Collection. Here, visitors can discover classical sculptures by the likes of Bernini and Canova, and ancient artworks by Italian masters such as Raphael and Caravaggio.

End the day with a five-minute drive or a 15-minute walk back to the hotel.

 

View of the neoclassical facade of Galleria Borghese in Rome

Day two

Start day two with a 15-minute drive over the River Tiber to Castel Sant’Angelo.
Exterior of the Castel Sant Angelo in Rome, with two angels statues at the entrance
T: +39 06 32810 | Lungotevere Castello 50, 00193 Rome

Castel Sant’Angelo

An imposing ancient Roman fortress in the heart of the city, Castel Sant’Angelo has had many different uses: a mausoleum for 2nd century Emperor Hadrian, a prison, a residence for the Pope, and now, a museum. The National Museum of Castel Sant’Angelo retraces the history of the fortress, with fascinating exhibitions showcasing antique weapons, pottery and artworks.

Then, take a five-minute drive or a 20-minute walk to Vatican City.

 

00120

Vatican City

A walled enclave within the city of Rome, Vatican City is the world’s smallest sovereign state. Built over the tomb of Saint Peter, it’s the home of the Roman Catholic Church and the residence of the Pope. At its heart stands St Peter’s Square, off of which visitors can discover St Peter’s Basilica, the Vatican Museums and the Sistine Chapel – look up to gaze at Michelangelo’s famous frescos.

Next, seek out St Peter’s Basilica, located within Vatican City.

View of interiors of Chez Dédé boutique in Rome
View from afar of Saint Peter's church and its dome in Rome
T: +39 06 6988 3229 | Piazza San Pietro, Vatican City, 00120

St Peter's Basilica

One of the holiest Christian sites in the world, St Peter’s Basilica is magnificent in both size and religious significance. Spend time exploring the landmark Renaissance church in Vatican City to discover impressive architecture and gain an unforgettable lesson in history and religion. Queues to access the basilica can be long, but it’s worth the wait.

To get to Piazza Navona, take a 10-minute drive or a 20-minute walk, crossing back over the River Tiber.

00186 Rome

Piazza Navona

Piazza Navona was built on the site of the ancient Roman Stadium of Domitian. However, today’s visitors come here to see the Baroque palazzi, and magnificent fountains that dominate the bustling square. At the centre stands an ancient Egyptian Obelisk and Bernini’s famous Fontana dei Quattro Fiumi, a fountain featuring statues of four river Gods.

To reach the Pantheon, take a five-minute walk.

View of Piazza Navona and fontana dei quattro fiumi ( fountain of the four rivers) in Rome
The Pantheon CREDIT iStock zetter
T: +39 06 6830 0230 | Piazza della Rotonda, 00186 Rome

The Pantheon

Built by the emperor Hadrian in the early 2nd century, the Pantheon is one of the most beautifully preserved Roman temples in the city. Its impressive architecture is best appreciated from the inside. Enter the iconic structure, passing under its giant columns, to gaze at its enormous dome. Visitors can also discover several statues of classical Gods, to whom the structure is dedicated, alongside the tombs of influential Romans such as Renaissance artist Raphael and King Vittorio Emanuele II.

To get back to the hotel, take a 20-minute walk or drive.

All journey times are approximate and subject to variation.

Explore

Heading out to explore? Download our itineraries for all the ideas you need to make the most of your visit to the capital.