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What to see in Rome: the must-visit sights

You can't see Rome in a day: the Eternal City is an open-air museum where every square, alley and fountain tells more than two thousand years of history. Whether it's your first time in the capital, or you want to rediscover it at a leisurely pace, we have gathered the truly unmissable sights together with a few practical tips to plan your visit and enjoy every moment of your stay.

The ancient heart: Colosseum, Imperial Forums and Palatine

The ultimate symbol of Rome is the Colosseum, the largest amphitheatre of the ancient world, where gladiatorial games were once held. Beside it stretches the area of the Imperial Forums and the Palatine, the hill where the first Rome arose and today an archaeological oasis among centuries-old pines. We recommend buying the combined ticket online in advance: you'll avoid the long queues and be able to choose the most convenient time slot. Early in the morning the light is perfect for photographs and the temperature, especially in summer, is far more bearable.

The Vatican: St Peter's Basilica and Museums

The heart of Christianity, Vatican City deserves at least half a day. St Peter's Basilica, with its dome designed by Michelangelo, offers from the top one of the most spectacular views over the city. The Vatican Museums hold timeless masterpieces and culminate in the Sistine Chapel. Here too, booking in advance is essential. Remember that to enter sacred places you need appropriate clothing: shoulders and knees must be covered.

Trevi Fountain, Pantheon and the Spanish Steps

Some of the most beloved sights are concentrated in the historic centre. The Trevi Fountain, a masterpiece of Roman Baroque, is the perfect place to toss the classic coin and make the wish to return to Rome. A few steps away stands the Pantheon, a perfectly preserved Roman-era temple with its famous dome open to the sky. Not far off, the scenic Spanish Steps and the elegant Piazza Navona with its fountains complete a walk that can easily be done on foot.

Trastevere and the charm of authentic Rome

When evening falls, the Trastevere district becomes the ideal place to dine and soak up the city's lively, local atmosphere: cobbled alleys, traditional trattorias and artisan workshops. This is where you can taste the great classics of Roman cuisine, from cacio e pepe to carbonara, from amatriciana to supplì. A dinner in Trastevere is the perfect way to round off a day of sightseeing.

Beyond the great classics: Villa Borghese and Castel Sant'Angelo

If you have a few extra days, it's well worth broadening your itinerary. Villa Borghese is the city's green lung: a large park where you can stroll, rent a bicycle or a rickshaw and visit the famous Borghese Gallery, a treasure trove of masterpieces by Bernini and Caravaggio (remember to book your entry in advance). Not far away, Castel Sant'Angelo dominates the Tiber with its circular mass: from the panoramic terrace you can enjoy one of the most beautiful views of St Peter's, especially at sunset. A walk along the river, crossing the evocative Ponte Sant'Angelo adorned with the statues of the angels, is an experience that stays in your heart.

How many days do you need to visit Rome

A recurring question concerns the ideal length of stay. For the main monuments you need at least three full days: one dedicated to ancient Rome (Colosseum, Forums and Palatine), one to the Vatican and one to the historic centre between Trevi, the Pantheon and Piazza Navona. With four or five days you can add museums, parks and a few excursions in the surrounding area, enjoying the city without rushing. Our advice is not to overload your days: Rome is best savoured slowly, alternating the great sights with stops in a square for a good coffee or an ice cream.

Practical tips for your visit

• Wear comfortable shoes: you walk a lot in Rome, often on cobblestones.
• Always carry a water bottle with you: the historic drinking fountains (the "nasoni") provide free drinking water.
• Plan your museum entries by time slot, grouping together destinations that are close to one another.
• Consider a public transport pass if you expect to make several trips in a day.

Why stay at B&B Beni Benius Roma

After an intense day among monuments and museums, returning to a peaceful setting surrounded by greenery really makes a difference. Our B&B Beni Benius Roma is located in a quiet, residential area, away from the chaos of the centre but well connected, with the great advantage of free private parking for those arriving by car. Our welcoming rooms include breakfast, WiFi and air conditioning, so you can rest at your best and set off recharged to discover the city. If you have any questions about itineraries or opening times, we are always happy to give you advice: feel free to contact us before your arrival.