Attractions:

• The Colosseum: Arguably the most iconic structure in Europe is an obvious “must-see”. It hosted many events in its heyday, such as gladiatorial games, and even today, it is the world’s largest amphitheater. A full breakdown of opening hours can be found here, but from April-October, it is open daily from 8:30am-7:00pm. Entrance tickets cost €16 and should be purchased at least two days in advance. Your ticket purchase is valid for 24 hours and includes entrance to both the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill. With a single ticket, visitors can explore all three in one day!

• Roman Forum & Palatine Hill: Speaking of these two sites, they are two of my favorites in the city - full of history, preserved architecture, and ruins. The Roman Forum has artifacts dating back to the 8th century BC! It served as the center of the Roman Empire and hosted its share of social, political, and religious ceremonies. Palatine Hill is the most prominent of Rome’s “Seven Hills” and said to be where Romulus killed Remus to become the king of Rome. It is undoubtedly one of the most ancient parts of the entire city! As mentioned above, purchasing a ticket to the Colosseum grants you entrance to both of these sites as well; find more information here.

• Vatican City & Museum: The Vatican City has been the center of Christianity since the 4th century, when St. Peter’s was built by Constantine. Its history is fascinating, which is why I believe whether you are Christian or not, this site deserves a few hours of your time. Like most Roman tourist attractions though, expect a large crowd! The museum is open Monday-Saturday from 9:00am-6:00pm and entrance costs €17. Keep in mind that “appropriate” dress is required to enter. Be sure to specifically carve out time to see the Sistine Chapel, which is where you will find Michelangelo’s jaw-dropping fresco, The Last Judgement! Take it in for as long as you want, because no filming or taking photos is allowed!

• Pantheon: Due to its significance across many centuries, this former Roman temple is one of the best-preserved structures in the entire city. In fact, some say it is the oldest building in the world still in use! At the time it was built in the 2nd century, its architecture was groundbreaking. The oculus, or Eye of the Pantheon, lets in natural light and is thought to be a passageway to Heaven. Historians say it was cleverly designed to reflect sunlight off the metal grate above the door at specific times of year. One of these times is midday on April 21, the founding date of Rome. During these specific times, the entranceway is filled with sunlight, giving a god-like aura to anyone who stands there. How cool is that? The Pantheon is free to enter and open daily from 9:00am-7:30pm (except on Sundays, when it closes at 6:00pm).

• Trevi Fountain: Another Roman classic! This Baroque work of art was built in the 18th century and is one of the most well known fountains in the world. Tradition says you will return to Rome if you throw a coin over your shoulder into the fountain! It is open 24/7 and free to visit!

• St. Peter's Basilica: Welcome to the largest church in the world! There are not many Renaissance-style buildings more celebrated than St. Peter’s! It is located in the Vatican City, free to enter, and open daily from 7:00am-7:00pm. The line to get in is generally quite lengthy, particularly on days there is mass in session. If you visit during mass, you must stay seated. Otherwise, you are allowed to walk around freely. Mass times can be found here.

• Piazza Navona: Rome’s most famous public square is also its most beautiful! It features two of the city’s most notable fountains, Fontana dei Quattro Fiumi and Fontana del Moro. Surrounded by cafés and restaurants, this piazza is a nice spot for a meal or drink!

• Spanish Steps: These steps were built in the 18th century to link the Bourbon Spanish Embassy and Trinità dei Monti above to the Spanish Square and Holy See below. Today, you will find artists painting and vendors selling bracelets. “No grazie” will go far!

• Villa Borghese: This is a great place to take refuge from the hustle and bustle for a few hours! It is one of the largest public parks in Rome, full of greenery, monuments, fountains, and museums. It is free to enter and open from dawn until dusk. While you are in the area, stop by Piazza del Popolo. This public square is one of the most brilliant in Rome, lying just inside the city’s northern gate. It is also the starting point of Via del Corso, the main street running through Rome’s historic center!

• Other locations to see include: Castel Sant'Angelo, Mouth of Truth, Piazza Venezia, Campo de’ Fiori, Circus Maximus, Altare della Patria, Baths of Caracalla, and Campidoglio!