PLACES TO VISIT IN ROME

Although Rome is one of the most expensive cities to visit in Europe; there are many things for tourists to do and see in the city for free. It is impossible to come to Rome and not visit the Vatican Museums during your trip. Another feature of visiting Rome is to see the beauty of the city's churches and squares. Some of the most beautiful and lively squares to visit in Rome are Piazza Navona and Piazza di Spagna, where the Spanish Steps are located. Must-see list includes St. Peter's Basilica and Santa Maria in Trastevere Church. We share information on the best places to do and see, from taking a walk in Coppede, one of the city's most fascinating and unique intersections, to experiencing the sights, tastes, and smells of street markets, to tossing a coin into the Trevi Fountain.

1. ITALIAN SENATE (PALAZZO MADAMA)

Since 1871, the Italian Senate has been housed in this strictly guarded prestigious palace. Palazzo Madama, located just a short distance from the beautiful and popular Piazza Navona, is where the Italian Senate meets. The building was originally built in the 16th century on the ruins of Nero's ancient baths. It was intended to be a luxurious city residence for the noble Medici family (a harbor of Italian banking and political families in the 14th century). This prestigious Palazzo gets its name "Madama" from the Madama Margherita of Austria, who was allegedly the illegitimate daughter of Emperor Charles V and once lived there. You can visit Palazzo Madama with a free guided tour on the first Saturday of the month.

2. SPANISH STEPS

Since its completion in 1726, visitors to this day have been led by locals to the beauty of the Spanish Steps, known as the "scalinata" (staircase). As you climb the stairs, you almost feel like you are climbing the Gates of Heaven. When you reach the top of the steps, you begin to understand how fascinating Rome is, with the panoramic view of the Roman rooftops, thanks to the hustle and bustle in the prestigious square.

3. PIAZZA NAVONA

After seeing this place, you will no longer find Baroque more beautiful than Piazza Navona. This square features three magnificent fountains, Bernini sculptures, a pleasant outdoor cafe scene, and the magnificent Sant'Agnese in Agone church. In the 1st century AD, this square was built on the Stadium where Emperor Domitian hosted chariot races and other competitions. The most striking of the fountains in the square is the Fontana dei Quattro Fiumi. The fountain represents the four rivers and four corners of the world: the Nile, Plata, Danube, and Ganges. For a quiet view of the almost empty Piazza Navona, head to the square around 7 AM.

4. COPPEDE NEIGHBORHOOD

Architectural enthusiasts who want to spend time away from the Centro Storico should definitely go to Quartiere Coppede, located in Rome's Trieste-Salaria district. This small peculiar corner of Rome is unique due to the fusion of Old Greek, Baroque, and Medieval influences in its arches and fountains. The person behind the creation of this fantastic tiny corner of Rome (consisting of only 31,000 square meters) was architect Gino Coppede. He designed and built the area from 1912 until his death in 1927. The neighborhood's entrance begins with these magnificent arches that lead you to a Venetian-style square adorned with mysterious mosaics and painted frescoes. You can also see the Fontane delle Rane (Frog Fountain), built in 1924 at a glance. Many countries have chosen the Coppede area as the location for their embassies. The small neighborhood has been the backdrop for films, including those by Italian horror film director Dario Argento.

5. PANTHEON

The Pantheon is one of Rome's best-preserved monuments after the Colosseum. It was originally intended to be a pagan temple- only later to be converted into a church. The original rectangular structure, consisting of 16 granite columns, serves as the portico of the dome structure. The large preserved building, located in Piazza della Rotonda, makes for a perfect postcard picture. The square where the Pantheon is located is a favorite spot for young people, and you can dine at one of the various outdoor cafes. The Pantheon is the only completely intact building from Ancient Rome and a modern architectural marvel. When you enter the Pantheon while it is raining and look up at the dome, you will see raindrops falling through the large circular opening.

6. VATICAN MUSEUMS

It is impossible to visit the Eternal City and not stop by the Vatican Museums. You can visit the Vatican Museums for free on the last Sunday of the month. It houses some of the world's largest art collections. The Vatican Museums are actually separate from the Vatican palaces where the popes have lived since the 1200s. Inside, you will find works such as Egyptian relics, Etruscan artifacts, Renaissance paintings, Greek and Roman sculptures and busts; all housed in a labyrinth of apartments, galleries, and palaces. Monday to Saturday (09:00 - 18:00); the last admission is 2 hours before closing time. If you plan to visit the museums every day but Sundays, it would be wise to book your tickets online in advance.

7. TREVI FOUNTAIN

The fountain is a dramatic water spectacle for visitors with its wide basin, placed between three small streets ("tre vie"), and cascading water from the Palazzo Poli wall. Believe it or not, the Trevi Fountain makes quite a bit of money. Officials say that about 600,000 people throw coins into the fountain every year. The collected money is donated to charity each year. No visit to Rome is complete without visiting the world's most famous fountain.

8. VILLA BORGHESE PARK

Villa Borghese, known as the central park of Rome, is a favorite spot for tourists and locals alike. The park was put into operation in the 17th century and was used by the Borghese and Bonaparte families. Although it is not the largest park in Rome, it has become the most popular due to its central location and beautiful scenery. Villa Borghese also boasts historic buildings, the Galleria Borghese, a children's cinema, a place where you can rent bicycles, and is famous for its first-class museums. There are plenty of places to sit, spend some time, or have a picnic. Once you reach Villa Borghese, you can go to the Pincio gardens for a breathtaking view of the city skyline and Piazza del Popolo from the terrace.

9. CAMPO DE'FIORI MARKET

If you want to visit Rome, there is no better place than the Campo de Fiori open-air market, or mercato all'aperto. Taking a stroll through this market offers a brief glimpse into Italian culture. Once inside, you will witness vendors turning the art of selling tomatoes into a performance. The Campo de Fiori market sells all kinds of fresh fruits and vegetables, cheeses, meats, and even fish. There is also a lovely flower market in the far corner of the square. Campo de Fiori Market is open from Monday to Saturday from 07:30 to 13:30.