What to See in Rome: 20 Iconic Landmarks and Hidden Gems

Rome is one of the best locations in the world for lovers of history and architecture. It is a timeless and beautiful city known worldwide for its ancient landmarks, such as the Colosseum and Roman Forum. In the shadow of such renowned landmarks, though, you will also find untold architectural gems and fascinating snippets of history around almost every street corner. 

Of course, one article is not enough to adequately convey all of the marvels that await you here, but here's a list of 19 places you simply must photograph in Rome—and the one world-renowned location you cannot!

1. The Colosseum

Capturing the majestic grandeur of this ancient amphitheatre is at the top of most photographers' to-do lists when visiting Rome. As one of the most-visited tourist attractions in the world, it's a challenge to capture a great shot here. Early morning pre-dawn is your best bet, but you can expect to contend with other photographers even then.

2. St Peter's Square

Though it is tempting to put on a wide-angle lens and capture the square in a single frame, consider using a telephoto to pick out the fine details scattered around. Rooftop sculptures and the goliath Tuscan colonnades can make interesting compositions. 

3. Umberto I Bridge

This bridge provides one of the definitive cityscape viewpoints of Rome. You can craft genuinely timeless images when Vatican City is backlit at sunset. Photographers often line the bridge from golden hour onwards, awaiting those fleeting moments of magic when the sky erupts with colour.

4. Piazza Navona

Street photographers will surely love the lively ambience of this square, adorned with beautiful fountains and street performers. Most consider this square the best place in the city for people-watching.

5. The Pantheon

Architecture photographers love this architectural marvel, particularly its impressive dome and those magical moments when light streams through the oculus.

Need editing inspiration? Search Marketplace for architecture presets for Luminar Neo.

6. The Pyramid of Cestius

When you think of pyramids, you first think of Egypt. It is less well-known that Rome has a smaller pyramid, too. The Pyramid of Cestius is an ancient pyramid built around 18–12 BCE as a tomb for Gaius Cestius. It is a concrete pyramid, 36 meters tall and covered in white marble.

For more inspiration and tips about architecture photography, check out Skylum’s guide to architecture photography. 

7. The Trevi Fountain

Little needs to be said of this world-famous baroque masterpiece, save for a reminder that it can be a claustrophobic experience to reach, shoulder-to-shoulder with fellow tourists during peak season. You may wish to consider visiting early on a weekday when crowds are not as overwhelming in number.

8. Trastevere

This picturesque neighbourhood is known for its narrow cobblestone streets and colourful buildings. This place is relatively quiet compared to the rest of the city, so you may enjoy relaxed travel photography in this district.

9. The Spanish Steps

Arguably the city's best-known meeting point, the iconic staircase is always a busy and ever-changing backdrop. To capture something different from the norm, head here at dawn for a chance to see the steps during a period of calm.

10. Campo de Fiori

This busy and popular public square is perfect for street photographers. Look out for the flower market, street vendors, and a vibrant cafe culture.

Thinking of getting a tripod? Check out our guide to the best travel tripods.

11. The Roman Forum

Explore these ruins of the heart of ancient Rome, where stunning columns and ancient structures provide endless photographic opportunities. An elevated viewpoint gives photographers a great view at dawn, as the silhouettes of the columns give way to soft dawn light.

12. The Sistine Chapel

There is a blanket ban on photography here, but that doesn't stop tourists from constantly attempting it—much to the annoyance of the Vatican's security guards, who regularly bark, “No photo!”

You may believe the ban was implemented to prevent flash photography from damaging the artwork, but there is a secondary reason. The restoration of the Sistine Chapel was funded by a Japanese television network that bought the rights to all photographic and video usage of the chapel. (That deal ended years ago, but the ban remains.)

13. Castel Sant’Angelo

Yet another of Rome's historic sites, Castel Sant'Angelo, is in a stunning position on the Tiber's banks, framed beautifully by Ponte Sant’Angelo. Statues and street vendors line the bridge, so consider visiting early in the morning before the thousands of visitors arrive.

14. Galleria Sciarra

This hidden Art Nouveau courtyard gives an incredible viewpoint for architecture photographers who like to look up. Frescos and symmetry beautifully frame the sky above. 

15. Bocca Della Verita (The Mouth Of Truth)

The Mouth of Truth is an iconic marble mask found in the portico of the Santa Maria in Cosmedin church. According to an ancient legend, it will bite off the hand from any liar who places their hand in its mouth. It was immortalised in the movie Roman Holiday with Audrey Hepburn and Gregory Peck. Expect to queue here for your chance to take a photo.

16. Via Appia 

Take a stroll along this centuries-old road lined with ruins. Parts of the Via Appia are well-preserved and offer a step back in time to the days of the Roman Empire.

17. The Aventine Keyhole 

Look through this hole in a doorway of the Palace of the Priory of the Knights of Malta (Piazza dei Cavalieri di Malta 4) and enjoy a perfectly framed view of the dome of St Peter's Basilica. 

18. Piazza Venezia

Piazza Venezia is the major intersection of some of Rome's most notable roads. It is also the site of the Palazzo Venezia and the Monument to Vittorio Emanuele II. Statues and busts flank the square. A pleasant golden hour can yield great photographic results here.

19. Campidoglio

The Campidoglio, or Capitoline Hill, is one of the seven hills of ancient Rome. At the summit, you'll find the Piazza del Campidoglio, a stunning square designed by Michelangelo in the 16th century. Remember to incorporate the ground—the beautiful stonework and symmetry first created by Michaelangelo was recreated when the square was paved in 1940.

20. The Bramante Staircase

This staircase takes the form of a stunning double helix. It can be photographed looking down from above or up from below—both offer excellent compositions. The staircase is found at the exit of the Vatican Museums. Widely considered one of the world's architectural icons, it is a challenge to photograph as tripods are not permitted. Good timing and a steady hand will serve you well at this location.

More Rome Inspiration

Visit PhotoHound for a closer look at even more Rome photo spots. You will find some lesser-known gems curated by Italian photographers who live and work in the city.

Rome is one of the world's most famous cities, and you will surely come away with stunning photographs to treasure forever. We'd love to see what you capture on your travels! Make sure to tag us in your adventures #madewithluminar.