Return to Attractions and Things to See and Do in Rome

Rome, steeped in history, is a city that will keep you busy with its overpowering past.  Although the city’s history is certainly the main attraction, there are also beautiful modern day attractions, including great restaurants and a busy nightlife.  Below is a list of the most popular tourist attractions. If you need a hotel room in Rome, we recommend RomeHotels.org, the leading hotel booking site for the Eternal City.

The Colosseum 
The Colosseum is easily the most well-known tourist attraction from ancient Rome.  The original structure held around 50,000 people, and was used for various public spectacles, including gladiatorial battles.  Although only a relatively small part of it is still standing, it is undoubtedly the main symbol of Rome, and a monument to times past. 

The Vatican 
Although not nearly as old as the Colosseum, the Vatican was established in 1506.  Museums that are located in the Vatican, which is itself located within the Vatican City, have art works by the famous artists, Michelangelo, Raphael and Da Vinci.  Visitors can see The Creation, by Michelangelo in the famous Sistine Chapel. (Find cheap hotels near the Vatican in Rome via CheapHotels.org)

The Pantheon 
As the most well preserved ancient Roman structure, and the oldest of these to still support a dome, the Pantheon has served as a Catholic church since the 7th century.  It was originally built as a temple to the Roman gods, and is another must see site for those interested in ancient Rome. 

Saint Peter’s Basilica 
This visually striking historical church is situated in the Vatican City.  Michelangelo designed the dome of this famous church that was built in the styles of Baroque and Renaissance architecture. 

Villa Borghese Gardens 
Although there is much to see in the Villa Borghese Gardens, this large public park is a beautiful place to take a break and relax from your busy tourist schedule.  Amidst the beautiful green space are fountains, art, and attractive landscaping. 

The Forum 
Located close to the Colosseum, this used to be the center of ancient Rome.  The leaders of Rome ran their empire from municipal buildings and palaces that were located here.  Located next to the Forum is the Circus Maximus, where public games were held, as well as chariot races and various festivals.  The Forum is now a public park, although traces of ancient race tracks can still be seen. 

The Spanish Steps 
The Piazza di Spagna and the Piazza Trinita dei Monti, two of Rome’s well-known piazzas, or squares, are joined by the Spanish Steps.  A site to be enjoyed both in the day and the night, the 138 steps were built in the 1720s.  Apart from enjoying the view, this is a good place to relax in a restaurant or an espresso bar. 

The Trevi Fountain 
This incredible stone sculpture shows the story of early Romans being led to fresh water by a young virgin.  There is a legend that those that throw coins into the Trevi Fountain will be ensuring a return trip to Rome.  Thousands of Euros are thrown into the fountain every day by tourists who would like to make sure that they have the chance, once again, to visit Rome – a city that has so much to offer.

[ URLs: www.romehotels.org, http://www.cheaphotels.org/cities/rome.html ]