Back in 2010 while in design school, we had just finished learning about the Renaissance art period and I happened to take a trip to Rome immediately after. What great timing! To be able to see in person all the famous artwork I had just learned about? Incredible (insert art glee squeal here).
Rome isn’t just a city—it’s a living museum where every street corner has a story, every piazza looks like a movie set, and every meal is probably the best thing you’ve ever eaten. From ancient ruins to jaw-dropping cathedrals, let’s dive into the Eternal City’s must-see spots!
Rome’s Most Iconic Landmarks
Colosseum – The OG gladiator arena, where ancient Romans came for epic battles and brutal entertainment. Walking through this 2,000-year-old amphitheater feels like stepping into history—just imagine the roar of the crowds!
Roman Forum – Right next to the Colosseum, this was the heart of ancient Rome, filled with temples, markets, and political drama. Now, it’s a stunning collection of ruins where you can wander and picture what life was like back in the day.
Trevi Fountain – One of the most famous fountains in the world! Toss a coin over your left shoulder and make a wish—legend says it guarantees a return trip to Rome. Bonus: The fountain is even more magical when lit up at night.
Spanish Steps – A prime people-watching spot and a great excuse to grab a gelato, sit down, and soak in the atmosphere. Climb to the top for a stunning view of Rome’s rooftops.
The Vatican
Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel – Even if you’re not an art buff, Michelangelo’s ceiling in the Sistine Chapel is mind-blowing. The Vatican Museums are packed with incredible sculptures, paintings, and treasures collected over centuries. Pro tip: Book tickets in advance to skip the crazy lines. Fun story: like I mentioned earlier, I had just finished learning about these beautiful works of art. I was so excited and wanted to make sure I saw them all that I decided my family was touring too slow for me. I took off on my own for 3 hours and met back them at the exit (the Sistine Chapel). Even though I was an adult, I didn’t have a working phone in Italy (hello flip phone era!) so my mother spent the entire time in a panic. Sorry mom!
St. Peter’s Basilica – The largest and most breathtaking church in the world! Climb to the top of the dome for unreal panoramic views of Vatican City and beyond.
More Must-See Spots
Victor Emmanuel II Monument – This massive white marble monument (aka the "wedding cake" or "typewriter" building) honors Italy’s first king. You can take an elevator to the top for epic views.
Ara Pacis Museum – A hidden gem for history lovers, this modern glass museum houses an ancient Roman altar dedicated to peace. It’s a cool mix of old and new!
Piazza del Duomo – A gorgeous square surrounded by stunning architecture and a great place to sip espresso and watch the world go by.
The cathedrals— I’m not even talking about a specific one, just visit all of them!!
The Food
Let’s be real—one of the best things about Italy is the food. Rome takes pasta, pizza, and gelato to a whole new level, and if you’re not eating at least five times a day, you’re doing it wrong. I also have to say, the tomatoes specifically are out of this world. It took me 2 weeks after getting home to not hate American tomatoes.
Must-Try Dishes
Carbonara – Rome’s most famous pasta! Made with egg, pecorino cheese, pancetta, and black pepper, it’s creamy (without cream!), rich, and absolutely life-changing.
Cacio e Pepe – Simple but so good. Just pasta, pecorino cheese, and black pepper, but somehow it tastes like magic.
Amatriciana – A tomato-based pasta with guanciale (cured pork cheek) and pecorino cheese. It’s a little spicy, a little smoky, and totally addictive.
Supplì – Rome’s answer to arancini! These are deep-fried rice balls stuffed with gooey mozzarella—basically a crispy, cheesy explosion of happiness.
Pizza al Taglio – Roman pizza is different from Naples—it’s served by the slice and sold by weight. Perfect for grabbing on the go! Try the potato & rosemary or classic margherita.
Porchetta – Slow-roasted, herb-stuffed pork with crispy skin. If you see a porchetta sandwich stand, just get one.
Sweet Treats You Can’t Skip
Gelato – This is NOT ice cream—it’s creamier, smoother, and just better. For the best gelato, look for places where the flavors are natural-colored (no neon green pistachio!).
Maritozzo – A sweet brioche bun filled with whipped cream—basically a breakfast dessert, and we’re not complaining.
Tiramisu – The classic coffee-soaked, mascarpone-layered dessert that never disappoints. Try it at a specialty shop for the best version!
Pro Tip: The Italian Way to Eat
Breakfast? Espresso + cornetto (an Italian croissant). No big breakfasts here!
Lunch? Late and long—many places close after lunch and reopen for dinner.
Dinner? Expect to eat around 8 or 9 PM (and don’t rush—it’s a whole experience!).
Coffee rules? Cappuccino is for mornings only—after noon, it’s all about espresso.
Quick Stop in Florence!
Taking the train from Rome to Florence is one of the easiest (and best) day trips you can do. In just 90 minutes, you’re in the heart of the Renaissance, surrounded by stunning architecture, world-famous art, and some of the best food in Italy.
DISCLAIMER: Museums are NOT open on Mondays! Learn from our mistake and don’t miss being able to see the incredible art because you took a day trip on the one day museums are closed.
Piazza del Duomo – First stop? The Florence Cathedral (Duomo), aka Santa Maria del Fiore, with its massive red dome designed by Brunelleschi. You can climb to the top for unreal city views, but it’s a workout—463 steps, no elevator.
Baptistery of St. John – Right next to the Duomo, this octagonal, gold-covered masterpiece has the famous Gates of Paradise doors.
Ponte Vecchio – Florence’s most famous bridge, lined with gold shops and stunning river views. Perfect for a quick photo stop!
Piazza della Signoria – Florence’s open-air museum, featuring statues like a replica of "David" and the dramatic Perseus with the Head of Medusa.
Hike up to Piazzale Michelangelo for the best panoramic view of Florence. The sunset over the city’s red rooftops and rolling Tuscan hills is absolutely worth the climb.
In conclusion, if you like art and you like to eat, go to Italy! Next on my list: Venice and Tuscany!
Samantha Shammas, Author
A true travel enthusiast, Samantha has been going around the globe her entire life and has visited over 35 countries and counting. With a lust to wander, she’s always excited to visit new places and soak in inspiration for her artwork.
