Castel Sant’Angelo: Climb to the top of the castle to be rewarded with unobstructed views. Face toward the Vatican and you will have views of the Tiber river, the bridges, and St. Peter’s Basilica all in one shot. This is the ideal spot for a picture-perfect postcard photo of Rome.

St. Peter’s Basilica: Climb the dome of St. Peter’s Basilica to get sweeping views of Vatican City and downtown Rome. Buy tickets for the dome inside the basilica. 

Victor Emanuel Monument: Take the two crystal elevators to the Terrazza delle Quadrighe for panoramic views of the monti area and Roman Forum. 

Hotel Raphael Rooftop Bar: Enjoy an apperitivo with a classic view of historic Rome on the top of Hotel Raphael.

Hotel Minverva Rooftop Bar: Another classic view of downtown Rome, Minerva is located just behind the Pantheon offering a unique perspective of the 2,000 year old ancient monument.

It’s best to do your major tours early in the morning with the first time slots. This will save you a great deal of time and hassle avoiding the late morning/early afternoon rush.

Forum & Colosseum: You must now purchase tickets online and schedule your date and time of visit for the Colosseum. Make sure to book ahead so you aren’t left with less favorable visit times or no time slots left at all. 

Vatican Museums: Highly recommend taking a guided tour which will allow you to skip the line and grant you more access with knowledgeable commentary. Plan at least 2-3 hours for a guided tour. Tours also typically end in St. Peter’s Basilica which allows you to get that great church in at the same time.

Gianicolo: The great hill west of the Tiber Riber not far from the neighborhood of Trastevere is one the best settings for a sunset over Roma.

Hotel Minerva Rooftop Bar: Hotel Minerva is another of Rome’s famous rooftop bars that will give you unparalleled sunset views over the city.

By scooter! Hands down, if you’re up for it this is the best way to see the Eternal City. You will see so much more and save oodles of time…plus, it’ll be an adventure you will never forget!

Walk it – If you aren’t up for the scooter walking and cab rides will be your primary modes of transport. I wouldn’t recommend dealing with the public transit unless you have an extended stay as the bus and underground can be a bit of a mess. Better to stick with walking and cab rides for longer journeys.

Public transit – Rome doesn’t have a great public transit system, but it can be useful to get from one side of the city to the other, or for those coming from outside the city center. There aren’t a lot of stops and the times can be unreliable so this is only the best option if you’re tired of walking and your money is tight.

Taxi – Though it’ll cost you a little taxis can be an easy and quick way to get around major parts of the city. You can get a cab on the go but it’s easiest to call one from your hotel lobby or grab one outside major tourist areas like the Vatican. Taxis are especially useful for getting to a guided tour on time. 

Time permitting you should not miss a visit to the Appian Way. It’s an easy way to escape the hustle and bustle of the city center without going too far. The sights, sounds, and history of the ancient Roman road are unmatched inside the city itself.