The 15 Most Famous Fountains in Rome 2024
The 15 Most Famous Fountains in Rome – Saturday May 4, 2024
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There are over 300 sculptured fountains in Italy’s capital – here are the 15 most famous fountains in Rome.
Do you know which city contains some of the most famous fountains in the world? Ever heard of the fountain of love? Perhaps spotted a renowned fountain in a movie scene?
Chances are, the magnificent fountain you are searching for is located in one of the most famous fountains in Rome!
With more than 300 monumental fountains located all over the capital, it’s no surprise how captivating these famous Italian fountains have become over many centuries.
Secrets & Stories
These most famous fountains in Rome hold so many secrets and stories from the past, and no surprise that the ancient Romans treasured water as a gift from the gods.
We’ve created a shortlist of the best tours that include Rome’s fountains and public squares (called a piazza), including suggested itineraries to help you visit these locations and learn more about the gorgeous piazzas in which many of them are located. A link to these tours is included in every fountain description.
Rome is known to have some of the most spectacular monuments in Europe, and these fountains will be hard to miss.
The 15 Most Famous Fountains in Rome 2024 in Detail
1. Trevi Fountain
Fountain Name: Trevi Fountain (Fontana di Trivi)
Outstanding features: Holdiong the number 1 spot for the most famous fountains in Rome and the world and known as the ‘fountain of love.’
Address: Piazza di Trevi 00187, Rome.
Mythology: If you throw one coin into the fountain, you will one day return to Rome. Two coins mean you fall in love with an Italian. And three coins mean you will marry the person! Legend says you should throw the coin over your left shoulder with your right hand with your back to the fountain.
History: The most beautiful fountain in the world – behold the famous Trevi fountain of Rome in Italy. With numerous movie appearances over the years, the Trevi fountain is one of the most recognizable monuments of Italy. With thousands coming to flock to the Fountain of Love each year, you will be amazed by the sheer size of the Trevi fountain in Rome.
2. Triton Fountain
Fountain Name: Triton Fountain (Fontana del Tritone)
Outstanding Features: The stunning architecture of this fountain in Rome shows Triton, the son of sea gods Poseidon and Amphitrite, kneeling on the shell.
Address: Piazza Barberini 00187, Rome.
Mythology: Triton is known as the Greek God of the Sea. He is often depicted holding a conch shell that he blows like a trumpet, calling out to sea.
History: This famous Triton Fountain in Rome is a masterpiece that represents one of the mythical gods. A beautiful story lies behind this fountain in Italy, with incredible detail in the sculptures – only to be seen in person! Triton’s conch blows water into the air, creating one of the most famous Italian fountains.
3. Turtle Fountain
Fountain Name: Turtle Fountain (Fontana delle Tartarughe)
Outstanding Features: On this famous fountain in Rome, you can see four marble shells supporting the basin with cherubs and bronze turtles situated on the top.
Address: Piazza Mattei 00186, Rome.
Mythology: People often relate the sculptures of the ‘cherub boys’ to Caravaggio’s oil painting ‘Cupid as Victor’ – you can see an uncanny resemblance between the two, so it is believed there is some connection between his artwork and the Turtle Fountain.
History: This famous fountain in Italy has many stories behind these beautiful sculptures. Eighteen (18) fountains were designed to bring water to the people of Rome as part of the restoration of the Aqueduct in the 16th century. Turtle Fountain was initially built in the mid-1500s and was supposed to provide water at the site of the Jewish market. However, the Roman nobleman Muzio Mattei changed these plans and had the famous Turtle fountain move closer to his family property in Rome. The bronze turtles were not added until the 1650s, making a charming touch to this artful piece.
4. Barcaccia Fountain
Fountain Name: Barcaccia Fountain (Fontana delle Barcaccia)
Outstanding Features: This unique famous Italian fountain shows a boat half sunk in the water below street level.
Address: Piazza di Spagna 00187, Rome.
Mythology: Built by Pietro Bernini in the 1600s, he purposefully constructed the Barcaccia Fountain to be below street level to overcome the issue of low water pressure from the Aqueduct.
History: Translating to the ‘Fountain of the Old Boat’ – this famous fountain found in Rome, Italy, is a monument for the flood in 1598 of River Tiber. Legends say a boat similar to that in Barcaccia Fountain was stranded in this exact spot where Bernini built this piece of art. The beautiful story behind this monument makes it one of the most famous fountains in Italy.
5. Pantheon Fountain
Fountain Name: Pantheon Fountain (Fontana del Pantheon)
Outstanding Features: A rather impressive piece of artwork on this famous fountain of Rome in Italy, with ornate marble dolphins and an Egyptian obelisk from Ramses II sitting in the shadow of the incredible Pantheon.
Address: Piazza della Rotonda 00186, Rome.
Mythology: Pantheon Fountain of Rome can be found in front of the ‘Pantheon’ temple, dedicated to all Roman gods. This was the first temple built for the common people in Rome.
History: The Pantheon fountain is famous today in Italy because of its power and cultural revelation. The temple was seen as forbidden in ancient times; however, temples are seen as sacred and a place of beauty in today’s age. Many visitors come here to see the Italian fountain in front of such a stunning piece of Roman history.
6. The Four Fountains
Fountain Name: The Four Fountains (Quattro Fontane)
Outstanding Features: See the famous ensemble of four late Renaissance fountains in Rome. Each one represents something different – River Tiber symbolizing Rome, River Arno symbolizing Florence, Goddess Dian for chastity, and Goddess Juno for strength.
Mythology: Two of the Four Fountains represent the rivers of Rome and how they provide the city with water, whereas the other two are for Roman goddesses – legend says these female figures could also be connected to the rivers.
History: The Four Fountains of Rome in Italy met at one intersection at Via delle Quattro and were built by Muzio Mattei in the 1500s. The famous fountains in Italy are all situated on each corner of the junction, making it quite a unique and interesting location. Francesco Borromini later built the church of San Carlo alle Quattro Fontane near the Four Fountains.
7. Moor Fountain
Fountain Name: Moor Fountain (Fontana del Moro)
Outstanding Features: One of the three fountains located in Piazza Navona, this marvelous piece of artwork shows four Tritons and a Moor wrestling with a dolphin.
Address: Piazza Navona 00186, Rome.
Mythology: It is believed that the figure in the conch shell could have also represented Neptune to the Romans, one of the gods of the sea, brother to Pluto and Jupiter.
History: Moor Fountain is another beautiful monument that shows how much the Romans were fixated on the gods of the sea. You will be amazed by this special tourist spot with so much symbolism and stories within these sculptures. A great place to marvel at Moor Fountain and enjoy the sun!
8. Fountain of the Four Rivers
Fountain Name: Fountain of the Four Rivers (Fontana dei Quattro Fiumi)
Outstanding Features: A rather impressive fountain of Rome in Italy, you can see the massive Egyptian obelisk in the center of Fountain of the Four Rivers and the enormous Roman figures surrounding the jagged rocks.
Address: Piazza Navona 00186, Rome.
Mythology: The Fountain of Four Rivers has amazing ancient water symbolism behind its incredible sculptures. It represents the four greatest rivers of the world – the Nile, the Ganges, the Danube, and the Plate.
History: Piazza Navona is famous for its three impressive fountains of Rome, including the Fountain of Four Rivers. Designed in the 1600s by the famous Bernini, this is one of the most famous fountains in Italy. Each of the four figures representing the world’s greatest rivers is sculptured in its way, which is rather interesting to interpret when you marvel at this wonder.
9. Fountain of the Bees
Fountain Name: Fountain of the Bees (Fontana delle Api)
Outstanding Features: A charming little fountain in Rome, this smaller shell-shaped sculpture is decorated with three small bees on the front.
Mythology: Legend says the Fountain of Bees could be linked to Aristaeus – the cultural hero that discovered beekeeping! There are many tales and legends related to bees in mythology.
History: Another marvelous creation by Bernini – the famous Fountain of Bees in Rome isn’t quite as large in scale as the other fountains on this list, but it still holds a beautiful tale and is worth visiting if you find yourself on this side of Rome. This fountain in Italy was interestingly created to collect the returning water from the ‘Triton Fountain’ of Piazza Barberini. We love how some of the famous fountains in Rome are connected.
10. Fountain of Neptune
Fountain Name: Fountain of Neptune (Fontana del Nettuno)
Outstanding Features: The latter of the three famous fountains in Piazza Navona in Rome. The Fountain of Neptune displays a dramatic battle scene in water – quite an extraordinary sight!
Address: Piazza Navona, 00186 Roma RM, Italy
Mythology: No fountain in Rome is complete without the God of the sea! Neptune is seen as the central figure of this famous fountain, battling with an octopus wrapped around his body. There are many legends and myths behind this piece of art – we will leave you to interpret the Fountain of Neptune story once you have seen it with your own eyes.
History: The fountain of Neptune was created by Giacomo Della Porta in the 1500s – although it is probably the least famous out of the three Piazza Navona fountains, this one still makes it on our list of best fountains in Rome with the story that lies here. Gaze upon the battle scene with Neptune, the octopus, a sea nymph, and horses all thrown together to create this magical scene. The cupids and walruses were added as an extra feature in the late 1800s.
11. Fountain of the Naiads
Fountain Name: Fountain of the Naiads (Fontana delle Naiadi)
Outstanding Features: Known as one of the largest famous fountains of Rome in Italy, this monument features four nude naiads (water nymphs) surrounded by Glaucus wrestling with a fish.
Address: Piazza Della Repubblica 00185, Rome.
Mythology: The mythical God Glaucus features in the Fountain of the Naiads and is known for becoming immortal by eating a magical herb. Glaucus was a sea god who rendered himself immortal by drinking venom after receiving the gift of immortality from his father, Nereus. As a result, he became a god of the sea and a defender of fishermen – which is why there is so much symbolism between Glaucus and this sculpture’s fish.
History: The fountain of the Naiads is a more recent piece finished in the early 1900s, making the design slightly more unique from the other famous fountains in Rome. You can see the water nymphs lying on different creatures – a water snake, a swan, a lizard, and a seahorse. It is said each of these creatures represents various forms of the sea.
12. Fountain of the Books
Fountain Name: Fountain of the Books (Fontana dei Libri)
Outstanding Features: An excellent spot for all those bookworms! This hidden gem shows a deer head tucked away in the center, with enormous books stacked on the side of this fountain in Rome. A modern take of architecture.
Address: Via degli Staderari 00186, Rome.
Mythology: The Fountain of the Books features a deer’s head that is believed to be linked to a legend of Saint Eustace – an early Roman martyr who was a patron saint of hunters.
History: This is another recent fountain found in Italy, built in 1927 by Pietro Lombardi. It is not quite as famous as the other fountains in Rome on this list, but it is worth visiting to see how it compares with the older sculptures made in the city. We find it interesting to see people’s take on the more modern fountains built in the 1900s. The Fountain of the Books is different from the rest, proud to symbolize a thirst for knowledge!
13. Fountain of the Small Ship
Fountain Name: Fountain of the Small Ship (Fontana Della Navicella)
Outstanding Features: Originally made as an ancient Roman warship statue, it was turned into a fountain in the 1930s.
Address: Via della Navicella 00184, Rome.
Mythology: Some believe that the Fountain of the Small Ship was previously part of a chapel dedicated to the cult of the goddess Isis – the mariners’ protector. Isis is a significant figure in Roman mythology and represents protecting women and children and healing the sick.
History: The Fountain of the Small Ship is another beautiful fountain in Rome containing ancient tales and legends. Before it was officially turned into a fountain, it was the entrance to the church of Santa Maria. Unfortunately, this fountain in Italy suffers from frequent vandalism, so many tourists ignore it. It’s a shame that people do not take care of this marvelous piece as we consider it a beautiful sculpture in the city.
14. Fountain of the Pine Cone
Fountain Name: Fountain of the Pine Cone (Fontana della Pigna)
Outstanding Features: One of the oldest sculptures is this incredible bronze pinecone that is now part of one of the most famous fountains in Rome. Two breathtaking peacocks accompany the pinecone on either side.
Address: Piazza di S. Marco 00186, Rome.
Mythology: The peacocks on either side of the pinecone symbolize immortality – which makes sense as the pinecone is incredibly old and still intact!
History: The pinecone belonging to this stunning fountain in Italy is nearly 2,000 years old! It was rediscovered, buried beneath Rome in the Middle Ages, and placed in Old St. Peter’s basilica. Years later, after St. Peter’s was torn down, the pine cone was moved to its present location and formed the Fountain of the Pine Cone.
15. Fountain of Moses
Fountain Name: Fountain of Moses (Fontana dell’Acqua Felice)
Outstanding Features: This famous Italian fountain contains some of the largest sculptures, making it a rather impressive piece. The four lions are situated at the base spurting water through the fountain, and in the very center stands a sculpture of Moses.
Address: Piazza di S. Bernardo 00185, Roma.
Mythology: The name Acqua Felice comes from the Aqueduct that Pope Sixtus restored. He is a strong figure widely known and is now celebrated by the Romans for his work.
History: The fountain of Moses became one of the first wall fountains built in ancient times. Made in the 1500s and representing the restoration of Aqueduct Felice, it quickly became a widely celebrated monument within the capital city. For the Romans, it marked an important event in water management – hence the Fountain of Moses became one of Rome’s most famous fountains.
Rome’s Best Fountain and Public Square Tours
We have shortlisted the 10 best tours that cover the most popular squares and fountains in Rome.
Visiting Rome? Here are more great tours!
Rome Travel Guide – 2024 Rome Vacation
Few places have as rich a history, architecture, and culture as this sprawling metropolis. Come and see Italy’s historical capital and discover Rome’s ancient wonders.
The Vatican, where Emperors have been found, and amphitheaters remain visible today. Rome is equally modern, with former residential neighborhoods, like Testaccio Monti and Ostiense, now as interesting for tourists for their nightlife, as its classic areas.
Within a day, you could travel from the Roman Empire house to a hipster market – or climb a building into a basement.
Rome cannot help but go over the top, even in nature! With the church dome’s exquisite views, the Giardino Degli Aranci makes it one of the most beautiful places.
This Rome travel guide will give you the best tips before you hop on that plane destined to visit Rome!
Rome – Where is Rome?
Rome is the capital city of Italy and is located in the central-western point of the Italian peninsula.
Italy is a southern European country known for its unique boot shape on the map. There are also surrounding islands of Italy, such as Sicily and Sardinia.
Very close to Italy’s Mediterranean western coast and in the region of Lazio, Rome will guide you to some of the best parts of the country.
Rome is considered a vast city, with a landmass of 1,285km – while the historic center is smaller and most of it is walkable.
Rome – Airports & Entry
Flying from the States
If you’re flying from the States to visit Rome, your journey may vary from 8-12 hours, depending on where you depart. For example, your flight from New York would be closer to 8 hours, but from Los Angeles, it would be closer to 12 hours.
You can find direct flights from New York, Los Angeles, Washington D.C, Chicago, Miami, Boston, Philadelphia, and Atlanta. Popular airlines that make these journeys are Delta and American Airlines.
When departing from another state, you may have a connecting flight that will add extra time to your journey, so remember to consider this!
America to Rome will typically cost around $500 round trip but can vary depending on the time of year and how far in advance you book. I always use websites like Skyscanner and Google flights to get the best prices and search from different locations.
Flying from Europe
If you’re flying within Europe, you can book for as cheap as $20! Airlines like EasyJet and Ryanair are almost always easy to find affordable and direct flights to Rome.
Which Airport
Fiumicino Airport is the largest airport in Rome (officially named Aeroporto Leonardo da Vinci), where a dozen airline operators are available daily.
Ciampino Airport is the second international airport in Rome which is slightly smaller and less common to fly into.
Catch a Train
There are also high-speed trains from many European locations, such as Paris, Madrid, Amsterdam, and many other cities.
Bear in mind sometimes it is cheaper to get a flight in Europe if you’re not taking checked luggage. But it’s a good idea to compare prices with trains, so check them out if you’re not too far!
Rome – Currency
Italy uses the euro (€), which replaced the Italian’ lira’ in 2002.
$1 US Dollar will cost €0.86 EUR, and £1 British Sterling will cost €1.18 EUR.
In 2010 €1 would have cost approximately $1.35 US dollars. Whereas this year, €1 costs approximately $1.22 US dollars.
Cash or Card
The euro can be found all over Rome, now the city’s official currency. However, there may be minor exceptions for other currencies when you visit Rome.
Most people tend to pay for things by card in Rome; it is quite uncommon for places not to accept cards now. So you don’t have to worry about carrying too much cash! Don’t get caught with a declined card – make sure to call your credit card company before traveling, so they know where you will be.
Rome – History
Ancient Rome Times
When you visit Rome, you will discover so much beautiful history that comes with this city. Full of ancient stories about the Roman Empire and many legends – you will feel like you have traveled back years in Rome.
Officially founded in 753 BC in the small town by River Tiber, Rome was named after the twin brothers Romulus and Remus, that discovered the land.
Rome Today
Rome is commonly known as the ‘Eternal City,’ this name making its way worldwide. The reason behind this is that in ancient years, the Romans believed no matter how many times the empire would fall, the city of Rome would live forever.
Home to over 4.3 million residents today, Rome has become the third most populous city within the EU.
Rome – Ever Heard of Vatican City
While making your Rome travel guide to visit Rome, you have probably heard of Vatican City – the smallest state in Europe! It’s an independent city within Rome that claims about 1,000 residents. The impressive history and culture you can experience here are amazing.
Get your daily dose of history!
So if you’re a history buff and want to hear all the intriguing stories and myths behind this beautiful city, make sure you spend some time exploring the museums and talking to the locals – then you will be able to hear all about the past lives that once walked these streets.
Rome – People & Culture
Rome is full of beautiful, rich traditions and culture in the heart of Italy! It captivates those looking for fashion, art, architecture, religion, languages, and food!
The Italians do know how to live life on the good side here in Rome
The Language of Love
Modern Romans speak Italian, widely known as the language of love and romance. I could listen to them speak in their beautiful language all day! It is genuinely heartwarming and full of joy whenever you listen to them, and they always put so much passion and love into telling a story.
Do People Speak English in Rome
There are also many English speakers in Rome. With such a high amount of tourism and Europeans coming to relocate to the capital city, there has become a high mixture of languages over the years.
In the very touristy areas of Rome, you will probably find many people speaking English, so it’s pretty easy to converse with the public. If not, don’t worry! The locals here are super friendly and willing to help you if you can’t speak Italian; patience and time are all needed to get the right advice.
Modern Roman Culture
Rome perfectly combines their rich historical past with its diverse modern culture. You can wander to one part of Rome to find iconic historical monuments like the Colosseum or the Trevi Fountain.
Then head to another neighborhood where you will find all the modern buildings and art created in the last years. The variety you can see here encaptures the extensive culture within Rome and makes it such a wonderful place!
Rome – Food
Onto my favorite part of Rome: the food!
Ah, Italian cuisine; what would life be without you? Can you imagine going without trying these fantastic, classic Italian dishes? The best pizzas, pasta, lasagna, and tiramisu you can find!
Rome’s food is a big part of people’s trips here, becoming one of the most significant factors people miss when they leave!
It’s not surprising with the heart and soul put into their excellent food. Make sure you have plenty of days in Rome to try as many dishes as possible!
Our Rome travel guide has put together some of the most iconic dishes you must try at least once.
Pizza, Pizza, Pizzaaaa!
Of course, we will start the list with an Italian pizza! Are you going to come to the country’s capital and not try their classic pizzas?
One of the best activities to take yourself out for dinner and enjoy one of their delicious pizzas! Whether it’s classic Neopolitan or a Roman-style pizza, you can never go wrong.
The Italian people always recommend ordering a pizza with fewer toppings – it is not as enjoyable when it comes covered in over-the-top ingredients that take away the authentic taste of a pizza. A tip to remember!
Classic Lasagna
A hearty Italian meal is a typically flat pasta, ragu (or meat), cheese, and tomatoes. All baked together in the oven to form this tasty meal!
Many of you probably already had lasagna, but trust me, you haven’t had an authentic one until you have one in Rome!
The Romans take great pride in making some of the world’s best lasagnas in multiple restaurants throughout the city.
Hearty Risotto
Risotto Alla Milanese you will see this everywhere in Rome restaurants. The most famous type of risotto to go for, the rice, is made with saffron-flavored broth and white wine, then finished with parmesan cheese.
Another iconic Roman dish that will satisfy your taste palette!
Roman Polenta
Made with corn, butter, pepper, and parmesan, this comforting meal is very popular with the locals.
Experience some authentic Roman culture by tasting their polenta with meat or sauce. Definitely one to try in the colder months!
Spaghetti Carbonara
One of the most popular pasta dishes of today. Once you’ve tried this iconic pasta meal in Rome – you won’t want to eat this anywhere else but here!
Nothing beats the flavors of a Roman carbonara. It has become a specialty within the capital city, so everyone is always quick to take up this meal.
All you need is an expert Italian chef with some eggs, spaghetti, cheese, guanciale, and pepper, and there you have it, the best carbonara you will ever eat!
Fluffy Focaccia
An all-time favorite of mine. Whether for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, you can enjoy this Italian bread any time of the day paired with pretty much anything!
Imagine standing outside the bakery first thing in the morning, waiting to have your coffee and fresh out-the-oven focaccia bread for breakfast. It sounds like a good start to the day, right?
This thick pizza dough, made with olive oil and salt and then finished with rosemary and olives, will be right around the corner from you in Rome’s multiple bakeries.
Rome – Weather
What temperature to expect?
Rome enjoys a cool and drier climate with average temperatures of 50 – 60F throughout the winter months of November to March.
These temperatures will rise to around 70 – 80F in the summer months, making it the busier year for tourists with the warmer weather.
Winter in Rome?
If you don’t mind the cooler weather in winter, Rome is charming during Christmas time. The markets, lights, and festivities are magical this time of year.
You might see some showers; the wettest month is usually December. So grab an umbrella and a warm coat!
Rome – Travel Tips & Tourism
Peak Times in Rome
June, July, and August are the highest peak season for Rome, with the crowds becoming heavy and prices soaring.
October to April is the low season, receiving slightly fewer tourists and prices falling.
In the remaining months of May and September, the crowds start to get busy and fall again just as we enter and leave the high season.
We recommend going in either April to May or September to October to avoid these busy crowds and get better deals.
Where are Rome’s Visitors From
Being in Southern Europe, most of Rome’s visitors are from neighboring countries such as France, Germany, and Spain. It is relatively easy to get to Rome from here, so expect lots of Europeans!
The British and Americans are also big fans of the capital city of Italy, bringing in a large number of tourists each year.
Rome – How to Get Around
Hop on the Rome Metro
The city has two completed metro routes (and a third metro line was delayed numerous times due to excavations).
The metro in Rome runs regularly and is pretty reliable, starting at 5:30 am and closing at 11:30 pm every day. With the exclusion of Fridays and Saturdays, running slightly later until 1:30 am for those heading out for the night.
The metro network covers most of the city center, but there is no coverage of the historic center.
Getting From the Airport to City Center
You can get a nonstop express train connecting Leonardo da Vinci Airport to the city center of Rome (Rome Termini Station). They leave every half an hour, taking around 30 minutes to get there.
The cheaper option is to get the shuttle bus to Rome Termini Station – which runs every half an hour and takes roughly 40 minutes to arrive.
The shuttle bus is also available if you’re coming from Ciampino Airport.
Get the Rome Pass
Public transport is one of the best ways to experience the city. Try the Rome Pass for a complete 72-hour stay in the city.
You will receive unlimited use of public transportation within the city. The Roma Pass also provides discounts on performances and exhibitions and access to two museums or monuments on the card.
Why Not Walk Around the City
The most romantic way to discover the hidden corners of Rome is to travel by foot. This way, you can find all the beautiful streets you may not stumble across if you take public transport.
It’s quite easy to have a delightful walk within a reasonable distance. This is an excellent option if it’s within the historic center as it’s not too big!
Get the Train
Roma Termini is among the biggest railway stations in the country. It is ideally situated on high-speed trains, convenient for quick access to Naples, Florence, Milan, and many more.
Roma Termini station
If you’re going to Vatican City, it’s probably easiest to reach it from Roma Termini – trains and buses regularly go from here.
The trains will always run regularly at a decent price – a great option when considering your mode of transport outside the city.
Hail a Taxi
Taxis are plentiful, with stands near significant sites, and you can also use the free NOW hailing app. Super quick and easy!
Fixed rates are in place for trips to the airports Ciampino and Fiumicino, with prices marking the entrance door of the taxi. So this will always be the more expensive option.
Rome Buses
Buses are also available, but these are not recommended as often because of crowded conditions and heavy traffic outside. The city has a good bus system, but not always in places beyond the city walls. So maybe leave this as a last resort!
Rent a Car
Renting a car is only a good option if you know you want to go far out and not accessible by public transport.
With the heavy traffic and impatient drivers, having a car in the city is virtually impossible. The urban area traffic is chaotic in many ways, and drivers can be insane!
So please remember this when renting a car or driving yourself to Rome – there will be long queues!
Rome – Key Landmarks
In our Rome travel guide, we have put together the best landmarks within the city so you can make the most of your time here and get inspired by what to see!
Religious Structures in Rome
There are four papally-ordained basilica and seven pilgrimage buildings in Rome. No other city in the world does such an important job representing Catholic Faith.
The four major basilicas of Rome
St. Peter’s Basilica – seen as the most important religious building (and most famous) in the Catholic faith, is the Church of the Pope and is located in Vatican City.
Saint John Lateran – Rome’s oldest church belongs to the Vatican. It is referred to as the ‘mother of all churches.’
Santa Maria Maggiore – famous for its impressive bell tower and dedicated to Virgin Mary in Rome, the basilica features a mixture of styles from its redesigns over the years.
St. Paul Outside the Walls – unique to the other basilicas of Rome, it was destroyed and rebuilt the same after a fire in 1823.
Each of the basilicas of Rome can offer such a rich experience in Roman history and culture; you will take away so much knowledge and beauty from these locations, leaving you with a feeling like no other.
You can book your tickets online to visit these religious wonders of Rome. Not only does it teach the religion and history behind these walls, but you can see the art and architecture that was put into these over the years.
The Colosseum
Whenever you search for a Rome Travel Guide, you will see pictures of The Colosseum. The vast amphitheater is one of the Seven Wonders of the World and therefore remains one the most famous landmarks – receiving over 6 million visitors a year.
The icon of Rome, and always one of the main reasons people come here, is to see this magnificent piece of history.
You can feel and learn so much about the Roman Emperors at this wonder; it is no question why so many come here to see where it all happened over thousands of years.
Seeing The Colosseum in Rome should be on everyone’s bucket list! You can get a guide here to tell you all the exciting stories from ancient times, so make sure you book your tickets to get a good deal.
There is no surprise that The Colosseum gets packed with tourists any time of the year, so pre-booking is always best. And to avoid endless queues of people, we always recommend going as early in the morning as possible.
Explore Vatican City
Visit the Vatican Museums with the famous Sistine Chapel with Michelangelo’s Frescoes to highlight your Rome trip.
See the stunning art galleries, courtyards, towers, staircases, and chapels within the Museums.
The Renaissance masterpieces and classical sculptures will amaze all those interested in exploring the art world within Rome.
Another great highlight will show you the rich history and culture behind this little gem of Vatican City.
Trevi Fountain
One of the most famous fountains globally, and the largest Baroque fountain, beholds the Trevi Fountain of Rome.
It is notorious for seeing plenty of tourists throwing their money into this fountain – becoming a tradition for visiting this magical place. To ensure you make a return visit to this amazing city, take a coin in your right hand and, with your back to the fountain, throw the coin over your left shoulder.
You may not know that the municipality of Rome cleans the fountain and donates the collected money to charities every week. The locals have made a good cause behind this tourist attraction of Rome.
Other Landmarks
Another main attraction is the Roman Forum – a great historical location that once served the Romans for ritual gatherings.
The Roman Pantheon – is known as the most preserved and influential building of ancient Rome. Marvel at this wonder in the middle of the city while enjoying a coffee at a nearby café in the piazza.
The Spanish Steps – the iconic baroque stairway and meeting place for locals and tourists (an Instagram-worthy photo!).
Giardino Degli Aranci – the Orange Trees Garden! It has it all in the name – full of nature and incredible views.
And Palatine Hill is the oldest part of the city and is often named the most famous of Rome’s seven hills.
This list goes on – there are so many magnificent and impressive places within Rome to explore. So if you’re on a time limit, pick the best ones you want to see!
Rome Travel Guide – 2024 Rome Vacation
That’s Rome and all of its beauties. So much to explore, learn about, and discover in this city of love and romance.
Whether you’re going on a romantic getaway, a solo backpacking trip, away with your friends, or with your family, you will find everything you need to know in this Rome travel guide.
Follow all our best tips and tricks to get your ultimate vacation in the heart of Italy.
It’ll be one to remember … ‘When in Rome, do as the Romans do.’