Rome City Centre is also known as the historic center and was once the capital of the Western world. This was an ancient megacity of architectural splendor and engineering accomplishments that today encompasses most of Rome’s famous attractions. See evidence of the past glories of a once-great civilization when you visit temples, palaces and the place where Rome was founded.
The best way to get around Rome City Centre is on foot. Not only will it save you from waiting in line for buses, but you’ll find it easier to discover lesser known hidden gems such as the 16th-century Villa Medici and the Rome Rose Garden.
Head to the Colosseum, the well-preserved ancient Roman arena where up to 50,000 spectators at a time would watch gladiatorial combats, mass crucifixions and animal hunts.
Next door to the Colosseum is the Roman Forum, the center of public life in ancient Rome. Discover the remains of temples, monuments, shrines and government buildings. Go inside the Curia, where the senate convened. This is one of the few ancient Roman structures to have survived the centuries virtually intact.
Then go for a stroll up the adjacent Palatine Hill where the city was founded. Inspect the ruins of grand Roman palaces, including the House of Livia, which belonged to the wife of Augustus, the first Roman emperor. From the hill, take in spectacular views of the forum, the Colosseum, the Circus Maximus and other landmarks.
One of the best-preserved ancient Roman buildings is the Pantheon, about a 25-minute walk from Palatine Hill . Marvel at the impressive domed ceiling and the mostly intact marble interior.
Leave ancient Rome behind for some of the city center’s other attractions such as the Trevi Fountain, the Spanish Steps and the Papal Basilica of Saint Mary Major. Inside this early Christian church are 5th-century mosaics and the tombs of six popes.
Rome City Centre is easy to get to by car and public transportation from the capital’s two international airports. Lines for many attractions can be long, so if you can, book tickets in advance.
