What to visit in Rome: our themed recommendations

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What to visit in Rome: our themed recommendations

Rome isn’t a city you visit, it’s a city you live. From the ruins of Antiquity to the lively streets of Trastevere, every neighborhood tells a story. To make the most of your stay, it’s worth organizing your trip around what you love most! Whether you’re passionate about art, history, or just looking for a fun getaway with friends, here are our themed recommendations to explore the Eternal City at your own pace.

Ancient Rome: In the Footsteps of the Emperors

Good news, most of Rome’s ancient monuments are conveniently close to each other...

Colosseum - © Dianageanina

The Colosseum, majestic symbol of Rome, is an unmissable stop. Right next door, the Roman Forum takes you back in time to the age of senators, temples, and triumphant processions. Then climb up the Palatine Hill — it’s where it all began! The panoramic view of the ruins alone makes it worth the detour.

A bit further on, the Circus Maximus recalls the Romans’ love for chariot races, while the Baths of Caracalla still impress with their immense scale.

For a quieter experience, head to the Theatre of Marcellus. It’s often less crowded, but just as fascinating.

Sacred Rome: Between Faith and Baroque Splendor

Believer or not, it’s impossible to remain unmoved by Rome’s spiritual energy.

St. Peter's Basilica Rome - © jackmac34

The Vatican is its beating heart, with St. Peter’s Basilica and its breathtaking dome designed by Michelangelo. Visiting the Sistine Chapel is a must — an unforgettable experience. It’s hard to believe these grand and sometimes subversive frescoes were painted over 500 years ago.

But faith isn’t confined to the Vatican... Across the city, you’ll stumble upon magnificent churches. Don’t miss Santa Maria in Trastevere, one of the oldest in the capital, or the Basilica of San Clemente — built on multiple levels that take you on a true journey through time.

And if you find yourself near Piazza Navona, step into Sant’Agnese in Agone, a stunning baroque masterpiece.

Artistic Rome: The Capital of Masterpieces

In Rome, you’ll feel like you’re walking through an open-air museum. Every square, every fountain, every façade looks like it’s been painted by a master.

Borghese Gallery - © Tasos Lekkas

But for a real museum visit, start with the Borghese Gallery — a treasure nestled in a lush park, filled with Bernini’s sculptures and paintings by Caravaggio and Raphael. Prepare to be dazzled.

Continue with the Vatican Museums, among the most impressive in the world. They house thousands of works collected by popes over the centuries — you’ll come across Raphael, Leonardo da Vinci, and of course, Michelangelo.

And for a contemporary twist, the MAXXI museum proves that Roman creativity isn’t stuck in the past.

Rome and the Art of Living: Dolce Vita in Authentic Neighborhoods

Rome is also about atmosphere...

Trastevere - ©user32212

Wander through Trastevere to feel the beating heart of local life. Stroll down its flower-lined alleys, past lively trattorias and terraces where people debate the world over a spritz.

In the historic center, between the Trevi Fountain, the Pantheon, and Piazza di Spagna, every step is pure enchantment. Simply wandering here is an experience in itself!

To discover these iconic spots without missing a thing, join one of the guided tours offered by Bonjour Rome. You’ll live the dolce vita while learning a thousand fascinating things about this incredible city...

Written by Quentin de Bonjour Évasion

Voyageur passionné et aventurier urbain, Quentin, cofondateur de Bonjour Évasion, explore les plus grandes villes européennes avec un œil curieux et un esprit toujours en quête de nouvelles adresses. Des ruelles cachées de Lisbonne aux rooftops vibrants de Berlin, il aime sortir des sentiers battus pour dénicher les coins insolites, les bonnes tables locales et les lieux pleins d’âme. À travers ses récits pour Bonjour Évasion, il partage ses découvertes avec authenticité, entre bons plans, coups de cœur et inspirations pour celles et ceux qui veulent vivre la ville autrement.