Rome’s Termini Station is the city’s main railway station, located in the central area of Rome. From Termini Station, you can easily access many of Rome’s most famous tourist attractions, some of which are:
- Colosseum: One of the most famous landmarks in Rome, the Colosseum is a must-visit for anyone interested in Roman history and architecture.
- Roman Forum: This ancient plaza was the center of Roman political and social life and is now an archaeological site that offers a glimpse into ancient Roman times.
- Pantheon: This ancient temple is considered one of the best-preserved buildings from ancient Rome and is now a church.
- Vatican Museums: Located within Vatican City, the Vatican Museums house some of the world’s most famous works of art, including the Sistine Chapel.
- Piazza Navona: This beautiful square is surrounded by baroque palaces and is home to three fountains, including the famous Fontana dei Quattro Fiumi.
- Trevi Fountain: This baroque fountain is one of the most famous landmarks in Rome and is believed to bring good luck to those who throw a coin into its waters.
- Spanish Steps: This beautiful staircase is a popular gathering place for tourists and locals alike, and offers great views of the city from its top.
All of these tourist destinations are within walking distance from Termini Station, and many can be easily reached using the city’s public transportation system.
1. The Colosseum
The Colosseum is one of the most famous landmarks in Rome and is considered one of the greatest engineering feats of ancient Rome. It is a must-visit for anyone interested in Roman history, architecture, and engineering. The Colosseum was originally built as an amphitheater for gladiatorial contests and other public spectacles and could seat up to 80,000 spectators. Today, the Colosseum stands as a testament to the power and greatness of the Roman Empire.
The best time to visit the Colosseum is early in the morning or late in the afternoon, as the lines tend to be shorter and the temperatures are more pleasant. Keep in mind that the Colosseum can get quite crowded, so be prepared for long lines, especially during peak tourist season.
Visiting the Colosseum is not free, but the cost is well worth it. Admission fees are subject to change, but as of my knowledge cutoff, the cost is 16 EUR for an adult ticket. There are also combination tickets available that include access to other sites, such as the Roman Forum and the Palatine Hill.
Insider tip: If you want to skip the long lines, consider booking a guided tour or purchasing a skip-the-line ticket in advance. This will allow you to bypass the line and go straight into the Colosseum, saving you time and allowing you to experience this incredible site without the crowds. Additionally, consider visiting the Colosseum at night, as it is lit up and offers a unique and breathtaking view of the site.
2. The Roman Forum
The Roman Forum was the center of political, commercial, and social life in ancient Rome. It was the site of public speeches, elections, and gladiatorial games, as well as the marketplace where goods were sold and traded. The Roman Forum was also home to several important temples and public buildings, including the Temple of Julius Caesar, the Temple of Saturn, and the Arch of Titus.
The best time to visit the Roman Forum is early in the morning or late in the afternoon, as the lines tend to be shorter and the temperatures are more pleasant. Keep in mind that the Roman Forum can get quite crowded, so be prepared for long lines, especially during peak tourist season.
Visiting the Roman Forum is not free, but the cost is well worth it. Admission fees are subject to change, but as of my knowledge cutoff, the cost is 16 EUR for an adult ticket. There are also combination tickets available that include access to other sites, such as the Colosseum and the Palatine Hill.
Insider tip: Consider taking a guided tour of the Roman Forum to get a deeper understanding of its history and significance. A guide can help you navigate the site and bring the ancient ruins to life with stories and anecdotes. Additionally, consider visiting the Roman Forum at night, as some of the ruins are lit up and offer a unique and breathtaking view of the site.
3. The Pantheon
The Pantheon is an ancient temple that was built in 27 BC and is considered one of the best-preserved buildings from ancient Rome. It was originally dedicated to all the gods of Ancient Rome, and its name “Pantheon” means “Temple of all the gods”. The Pantheon is known for its remarkable dome, which is one of the largest unsupported domes in the world, and is considered a masterpiece of engineering.
The best time to visit the Pantheon is early in the morning or late in the afternoon, when the lines are shorter and the lighting is better for taking photos. Keep in mind that the Pantheon can get quite crowded, so be prepared for lines, especially during peak tourist season.
Visiting the Pantheon is free, making it an excellent value for those looking to experience some of the best-preserved ancient architecture in Rome.
Insider tip: Consider visiting the Pantheon during Mass, as the church is still in use and is a beautiful place to experience a religious service in Rome. Additionally, be sure to take a moment to look up at the dome and admire its remarkable engineering and beauty.
4. Vatican Museums
The Vatican Museums are a collection of art and antiques housed within the Vatican City and are considered one of the largest museums in the world. The museums contain an extensive collection of artifacts and works of art from the Vatican’s collection, including sculptures, paintings, tapestries, maps, and other works of art from the classical, Renaissance, and modern eras. Some of the most famous works in the Vatican Museums include the Sistine Chapel, Raphael’s Rooms, and the Maps Gallery.
The best time to visit the Vatican Museums is in the early morning or late afternoon, when the crowds tend to be smaller and the temperatures more pleasant. Keep in mind that the Vatican Museums can get quite crowded, especially during peak tourist season, so be prepared for long lines and large crowds.
Visiting the Vatican Museums requires a fee, which varies depending on the time of year and the specific exhibitions you wish to see.
Insider tip: Consider purchasing tickets in advance, as the Vatican Museums can get quite crowded and the lines can be quite long. Additionally, consider taking a guided tour, as the museums are vast and complex and having a knowledgeable guide can help you make the most of your visit. Additionally, be sure to wear comfortable shoes, as there is a lot of walking involved in exploring the Vatican Museums. Finally, remember to dress appropriately, as the Vatican has strict dress code requirements, including covering your knees and shoulders.
5. Piazza Navona
Piazza Navona is one of the most famous squares in Rome and is considered a must-see destination for any first-time visitor to the city. The square is located in the heart of the city and is surrounded by historical buildings, outdoor cafes, and street performers. The square is known for its three magnificent fountains, including the Fontana dei Quattro Fiumi (Fountain of the Four Rivers), which was created by Gian Lorenzo Bernini in the 17th century.
The best time to visit Piazza Navona is in the late afternoon or early evening, when the square comes to life with street performers, outdoor cafes, and locals enjoying the pleasant temperatures. Keep in mind that Piazza Navona can get quite crowded, especially during peak tourist season, so be prepared for large crowds and long lines.
Visiting Piazza Navona is free, making it an excellent value for those looking to experience one of the most famous squares in Rome.
Insider tip: Consider visiting Piazza Navona in the evenings, when the square is lit up and the atmosphere is lively. Additionally, be sure to take a moment to explore the surrounding streets and neighborhoods, as they are full of interesting shops, cafes, and historical buildings. Additionally, try one of the gelato shops in the square, as the gelato in Rome is some of the best in the world!
6. Trevi Fountain
The Trevi Fountain is one of the most famous fountains in the world and is considered one of the must-see sights in Rome. It is located in the Trevi neighborhood and was built in the 18th century to commemorate the completion of an aqueduct. The fountain is made of Carrara marble and depicts Neptune, the god of the sea, surrounded by sea horses and other mythical creatures.
The best time to visit the Trevi Fountain is in the early morning or late afternoon, as the crowds tend to be smaller and the lighting is better for taking photos. Keep in mind that the Trevi Fountain can get quite crowded, especially during peak tourist season, so be prepared for large crowds and long lines.
Visiting the Trevi Fountain is free, making it an excellent value for those looking to experience one of the most famous landmarks in Rome.
Insider tip: Consider visiting the Trevi Fountain at night, when it is lit up and offers a unique and beautiful view of the fountain. Additionally, it is customary to throw a coin into the fountain and make a wish. Tradition says that if you throw a coin into the fountain with your right hand over your left shoulder, you will ensure a return trip to Rome. Throwing two coins into the fountain is said to ensure a return trip and a new romantic interest, while throwing three coins is said to ensure a return trip, a new romantic interest, and wealth.
7. Spanish Steps
The Spanish Steps are a famous staircase located in the heart of Rome, leading up from the Piazza di Spagna to the Trinità dei Monti church. The staircase was built in the 18th century and is considered one of the most iconic landmarks in Rome. The Spanish Steps are a popular destination for tourists and locals alike and offer a great place to relax and take in the city’s beauty.
The best time to visit the Spanish Steps is in the early morning or late afternoon, when the temperatures are more pleasant and the crowds tend to be smaller. Keep in mind that the Spanish Steps can get quite crowded, especially during peak tourist season, so be prepared for long lines and large crowds.
Visiting the Spanish Steps is free, making it an excellent value for those looking to experience one of the most famous landmarks in Rome.
Insider tip: Consider visiting the Spanish Steps in the evenings, when the staircase is lit up and offers a unique and beautiful view of the city. Additionally, be sure to take a moment to explore the surrounding streets and neighborhoods, as they are full of interesting shops, cafes, and historical buildings. Additionally, consider visiting the nearby Keats-Shelley House, a museum dedicated to the Romantic poets John Keats and Percy Bysshe Shelley, who lived and worked in Rome in the early 19th century.
In conclusion, Termini Station is located in the heart of Rome and is the perfect starting point for exploring some of the city’s most famous tourist destinations. From the ancient ruins of the Roman Forum and Colosseum, to the iconic Piazza Navona and Spanish Steps, there is something for everyone in the area around Termini Station. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or simply looking for a relaxing afternoon in a picturesque square, you’re sure to find something that interests you in the vicinity of Termini Station. With a little planning and some insider tips, you can make the most of your time in Rome and experience the best that this fascinating city has to offer.