adminRome is one of those cities we’ve been lucky enough to visit a few times already. And honestly? It’s just an amazing place every single time! Like so many others, my very first visit to Rome was during our end-of-year school trip at the end of high school. And again, like so many others, I have the best memories of that trip!
When the kids were still very little, we already explored a bit of Italy together, with stops in Florence, Milan, and Pisa. Later on, when it was time to mark the end of primary school, we gave the kids a choice: pick a spring celebration or a destination of their choice. For Lore, it was an easy decision — she chose… Rome!
It had been a few years since I last visited, and I still had quite a few things left to tick off my Roman to-do list. So, Rome it is!
Planning the Trip
I found a great deal for a budget flight (check out my tips here for how to plan your trip on a budget!). We packed light — just hand luggage for four days, which was more than enough. I always use this handy checklist to make packing a breeze.
There’s a huge selection of hotels in and around the city center. Personally, I prefer staying right in the center, because most of Rome’s main attractions are within walking distance. It’s so easy to just step outside in the morning and immediately be surrounded by history and beauty. Here are some of my favorite and affordable places to stay:
Hotel tip: Vatican Garden Rooms, Arts & Rooms, Ale & Niki’s Home
Rome, best places to see
Vatican City
Visiting Rome means making choices. During my previous trips, I hadn’t been to Vatican City — so this time, it was an absolute must!
St. Peter’s Basilica
This is a must-see for anyone visiting Rome — and yes, I had been here before. But technically, this breathtaking site is part of Vatican City, so it definitely deserved another visit.
The square in front of the basilica, St. Peter’s Square, is embraced by Bernini’s grand colonnades. It can hold over 300,000 people, yet thanks to its thoughtful design, it rarely feels overwhelmingly crowded, even during major events.
Inside, the basilica is pure splendor. With a length of 187 meters and a height of 136 meters at the dome, it is one of the largest churches in the world. Every corner is rich in detail, from Michelangelo’s Pietà to the lavish bronze Baldachin by Bernini that rises above the papal altar.
But the real highlight for me is the view from the top of the dome. If you enjoy a bit of peace and don’t mind a workout, take the stairs, over 500 steps, though it sounds more daunting than it is.
One of the most unforgettable moments is walking along the inner rim of the dome. From there, you can look down into the nave, where people below seem no bigger than ants. The staircase within the dome grows narrower and more slanted as you climb, creating a unique, almost surreal experience.
At the very top, you’re rewarded with a stunning 360-degree view over Rome, the Vatican Gardens, and beyond, a view that truly makes the effort worthwhile.
Get your skip-the-line ticket for St Peters’s Basilica here!
Sistine Chapel and Vatican Museums
The Vatican Museums are a must-see when you’re in Rome. And it was one of the reasons why I wanted to come back here once more. You’ll find a huge collection of art and historical treasures here. The highlight for most visitors, and also for me is the Sistine Chapel, where you can admire Michelangelo’s world-famous ceiling. Even if you’re not really into art, it’s hard not to be impressed!
Just don’t expect to be here alone, thinking it will be calm and quiet is a bit of a dream. The crowds are real, and the lines can be super long. So if you don’t want to spend hours waiting outside, a “skip the line” ticket is definitely worth it (get it here!)!
Castel Sant’Angelo
It is just a short walk from the Vatican to the Castel Sant’Angelo. This spot is one of Rome’s most striking landmarks. Originally built as a mausoleum for Emperor Hadrian in the 2nd century AD, it later served as a fortress, a papal residence, and even a prison.
This place is a must-visit. You can explore its long, spiraling corridors, ancient rooms, and enjoy some of the best views over the Tiber River and St. Peter’s Basilica from the rooftop terrace. The castle is connected to the Vatican by a secret passage called the Passetto di Borgo, which popes used in times of danger.
Get your skip the line ticket here!
The Pantheon
The Pantheon is one of the most impressive and best-preserved buildings from ancient Rome. Originally built as a temple for all Roman gods, it has stood the test of time for nearly 2,000 years and is now used as a church.
The most famous feature? Its massive dome – still the largest unreinforced concrete dome in the world! At the top of the dome is the oculus, a circular opening that lets in natural light (and sometimes rain!). It creates a magical atmosphere inside the building.
The Pantheon is also the final resting place of some important figures, like the artist Raphael and several Italian kings. Entry is free, but it can get busy – especially around midday. Try going early or later in the afternoon for a quieter visit.
Colosseum and Forum Romanum
No visit to Rome is complete without seeing the Colosseum, one of the 7 wonders of the world. It’s the third ‘wonder’ we visit with te kids. The other ones were in Mexico and Jordan. The Colosseum is an iconic amphitheatre that once held up to 50,000 spectators who came to watch gladiator fights and other public shows. Walking through the Colosseum gives you a real sense of how massive and impressive Roman engineering was!
Right next to it lies the Roman Forum – the heart of ancient Rome. This was where political, commercial, and social life happened. Today, you can walk among the ruins of temples, arches, and public buildings, imagining what life was like here thousands of years ago.
Tip: Get a skip the line combined ticket for both sites and try to go early in the morning to beat the crowds because this place is popular!!
Trevi Fountain
The Trevi Fountain is one of the most iconic landmarks in Rome and probably the most photographed fountain in the world. This stunning Baroque masterpiece is famous for its dramatic sculptures and flowing water. Legend has it that if you throw a coin into the fountain (with your right hand over your left shoulder), you’ll be sure to return to Rome one day.
Be prepared: it’s almost never quiet here! The fountain attracts crowds all day long, so don’t expect a peaceful moment unless you visit very early in the morning. Still, the energy of the place is part of its charm, but just walking by was enough for us!
The Spanish Steps
The Spanish Steps are one of Rome’s most famous meeting spots. This elegant staircase connects Piazza di Spagna at the bottom with the Trinità dei Monti church at the top. With its 135 steps, it’s a lovely place to take a break, people-watch, or enjoy the view over the rooftops of Rome.
Although you’re no longer allowed to sit on the steps (to protect them from wear and tear), it’s still a popular photo stop.
Green escapes in Rome
Rome is a busy and noisy city. With the kids being very energetic too I felt the need from time to time to search for beautiful parks to relax in. One of the most popular is Villa Borghese, a large city park near the Spanish Steps. The park also houses museums, a small lake with rowing boats, and shady spots to unwind.
Another lovely park is Villa Doria Pamphili, a bit more off the beaten path, where locals go jogging or walking their dogs. It’s Rome’s largest landscaped park and has wide open spaces and a peaceful atmosphere.
If you’re exploring Trastevere, and your must, it’s my favorite area of the city, make a stop at Gianicolo Hill. It’s not a park in the classic sense, but it does have green areas and has one of the best panoramic views over the city!
And of course the Vatican gardens are a good place to relax a bit! Everyone goes to the museum and the Sistine chapel, what means it’s not crowded in the gardens!
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We visited Italy with kids. Just be sure you wear great walking shoes!
We don’t have kids, but even still, these are great places to visit as an adult too!
Villa Borghese was our favorite green escape in Rome, also quite close to where we typically stay. So nice to get a break from the crowds.
I already visited Rome, but this makes me want to go again!