BEST Views in Rome: 15 Gorgeous Viewpoints in Rome

With its distinctive skyline and gorgeous architecture, Rome is blessed with many iconic viewpoints. There are many places in Rome where you can enjoy the stunning view over the city.

If you’re looking for those beautiful places, then this is the guide for you! I spent a month living in Rome, and made it a daily activity to go out for walks and discovering viewpoints.

In this guide I put together all my favourite views in Rome. Whether it’s from or over a famous landmark, from a rooftop bar or from a park, this guide has a bit of everything!

So what are you waiting for? Let’s go discover these epic viewpoints over the Eternal City!

Contents

1 Views from & over famous Rome landmarks
2 Rooftop bars with awesome views
3 Parks with awesome Rome views
4 Where to stay in Rome

Wandering up the famous Spanish Steps towards Trinità dei Monti in Rome

Views from & over famous Rome landmarks

Some of the best views in Rome are the ones overlooking famous landmarks, or that you can see from the top of these iconic landmarks. This section is all about those viewpoints.

Trinità dei Monti

The church of Trinità dei Monti and the Spanish Steps are one of the most famous attractions in Rome. Tourists flock from all over the world to take a photo sitting at the bottom of the steps.

However what many of them miss is walking all the way up the stairs, and enjoying the view over the rooftops of Rome. You’ll also be able to get a closer look at the unique architecture of Trinità dei Monti.

This viewpoint isn’t particularly high, but from here you will still be able to see the domes of famous cathedrals stand out above the roofs of Rome.

The view over Rome from the viewing deck at the top of the Spanish Steps, just under Trinità dei Monti

Ponte Umberto I

Some might argue that this isn’t quite a viewpoint, but when the view is so stunning how can you say it isn’t? Ponte Umberto is possibly one of the most famous bridges and popular sunset spots in Rome.

Located close to Castel Sant’Angelo, this bridge has an incredible view over the Tiber River and the dome of San Pietro.

If you visit at sunset you will be able to see the sun go down behind the Vatican, and light up the sky and river orange. It’s without a doubt one of the most iconic views in Rome, and it’s easy to see why it’s so popular.

It’s pretty likely that you will find photographers with tripods here at sunset, photographing one of the spots that features on everyones Italy bucket lists.

Watching the sunset over the Vatican and Ponte Sant’Angelo from Ponte Umberto in Rome

View over the Colosseum from the walls of Via Nicola Salvi

Not your average viewpoint, this spot is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful views over the Colosseum. The Colosseum is one of the symbols of Rome.

It’s such a huge landmark that you can admire it from lots of different angles.

However the view from the low walls of Via Nicola Salvi is particularly good. When you walk out of the underground station just turn left, go up the stairs and you’re in the right spot.

This slightly higher angle allows you to see more of the Colosseum, as well as the Arco di Costantino in the background. It’s one of the most popular Instagram photo spots in Rome.

Chilling by the Colosseum in Rome

View over the Fori Romani from Campidoglio

This is another viewpoint that isn’t particularly high up, but is gorgeous regardless.

Every time I came to Rome I used to walk along the Fori Romani from the main road, and didn’t realise I was missing this incredible view from the back of the Campidoglio (the exact spot is on Via Monte Tarpeo).

From here you will have unrivalled views over the Roman Forum, paired with the dome of Chiesa dei Santi Luca e Martina, and you’ll even be able to see the Colosseum in the distance!

It’s one of my favourite views over the Roman Forums also because the ones you can see here are more and better preserved. The tall column structures that are still standing are simply incredible to see.

READ MORE: HOW TO SPEND THREE DAYS IN ROME!

View over the Roman Forum and the Colosseum from the Campidoglio

View over Fori Romani from Via dei Fori Imperiali

I know I’ve just said that the view from Via Monte Tarpeo, but that doesn’t mean the view from Via dei Fori Imperiali is bad. This is the main road that connects the Altar of the Fatherland to the Colosseum.

While walking along this road you will be able to admire the Fori Romani on both sides.

The ones on the right are particularly impressive, since you can see in the background the Altar of the Fatherland and the dome of a church.

Don’t limit yourself to simply seeing them from a viewpoint, make sure to add visiting the Fori Romani to your Italy itinerary.

Click here to book your skip the line ticket for the Roman Forum and Colosseum!

Admiring the view over the Fori Romani in Rome

From Ponte Vittorio Emanuele II

This view is particularly good at night. If you cross this bridge at night you will be able to see an incredible view of Castel Sant’Angelo and Ponte Sant’Angelo.

What makes it particularly good is the reflection in the Tiber River. Castel Sant’Angelo is one of the most unique and distinctive places in Rome.

Seeing it from this angle, lit up at night and reflected in the river, is simply magical. It’s easy to see why it’s a popular stop on many Rome by night tours.

Even if you’re only spending two days in Rome (or less), you should definitely make some time for a night walk around Rome. Rome at night is even more magical than during the day, without the noise of the big crowds.

View over Castel Sant’Angelo and the Tiber River at night

From the rooftop of the Altare della Patria

The Altar of the Fatherland is one of the most imposing buildings in Rome. With its pristine white façade and tall columns, it was built in honour of king Vittorio Emanuele II, the first to be king to a unified Italy.

There is a panoramic terrace on the roof, located at the same height as the chariot statues. From here you get an incredible 360° view over Rome, you can also see famous landmarks such as the Colosseum.

Unlike some of the other views on this list it’s not free, but the view is so good you’ll be glad you paid it. The price to access the lifts and panoramic terrace is 7 EUR.

READ MORE: HOW TO SPEND ONE DAY IN ROME!

The famous Altare della Patria in Rome

From the dome of St Peter’s Basilica

St Peter’s Basilica and the Vatican are possibly the most famous and visited attraction in Rome.

Thousands of tourists flock to Rome every day to visit the Vatican, gape at the Sistin Chapel, explore the Vatican museums and admire the beauty of San Pietro.

Entrance to the basilica is free, however if you want to access the dome (which if you’re reading this guide to the best views in Rome you will probably want to do) you will need to pay a ticket.

Entrance is 8 EUR if you take the lift or 6 EUR if you walk up the stairs.

The view over Rome you will see is well worth the price. If you want to take a guided tour of the basilica and the Vatican museums make sure to book online beforehand, and save yourself all the queuing time in Rome.

Click here to book your St Peter’s Basilica + dome climb ticket!

The Basilica di San Pietro and main square of the Vatican in Rome

From the top of Castel Sant’Angelo

The Mausoleum of Hadrian, also known as Castel Sant’Angelo, is one of the most recognisable attractions in Rome. With its cylindrical shape it’s unlike anything else you will see in Rome (or elsewhere in the world).

Entrance to Castel Sant’Angelo is 15 EUR. It gives you access to the museum, mausoleum an also to the viewpoint deck. From here you get an epic view over Sant’Angelo Bridge and the roofs of Rome.

Click here to see prices & availability for fast track entrance & guided tour of Castel Sant’Angelo!

Walking along Ponte Sant’ Angelo in Rome, with Castel Sant’ Angelo in the background

Rooftop bars with awesome views

One of my favourite things to do in Rome (or anywhere around the world for that matter) is going for sunset drinks at rooftop bars. Add to that a gorgeous view, and you have an all round winner.

I love sitting there, soaking in the last rays of the setting sun and drinking with friends. In Rome there are quite a few rooftop bars with gorgeous views of the Rome skyline.

Make sure to add some stylish outfits to your Italy packing list, so that you can blend in with the locals at these trendy rooftop bars!

Up Sunset Bar

Located on the rooftop of the Rinascente shopping mall, this rooftop bar is one of the most popular in Rome.

Especially if you’re visiting Rome in summer, you will find locals here on every day of the week, enjoying an Aperol Spritz or another classic Italian drink with their view and sunset.

The Rinascente mall is very central, meaning that form here you can enjoy a lovely view over the rooftops of Rome from up close. You will also see the domes of some of Rome’s most famous churches.

If you come at sunset time you can enjoy an Aperol Spritz and some nibbles, a classic Italian aperitivo, while you admire the view over Rome.

Sunset over the rooftops of Rome from Up Sunset Bar

Hotel Minerva Rooftop Bar

When it comes to the view, the rooftop bar at Hotel Minerva has a view unlike any other in Rome.

This huge bar has 360 views over the rooftops of Rome, from one side you can admire the Altar of the Fatherland whilst on the other you get a close up of the Pantheon.

The prices are a bit on the higher end, but with a view like this, it’s not surprising! The best time to visit is at sunset, when the setting sun turns the Altar of the Fatherland pink.

It’s also the best time to enjoy an Italian aperitivo! Order a drink, and they will bring you a selection of nibbles to go with it. It’s one of the many Italian traditions you need to try during an Italy trip.

View over Rome and the Altar of the Fatherland from the rooftop bar of Hotel Minerva

AcquaRoof Terrazza Molinari

If you want to add a delicious Italian aperitivo to your viewpoint mission, then the rooftop at AcquaRoof Terrazza Molinari is the right place to do so. This rooftop isn’t as big as the others, so make sure to get here early.

They don’t take reservations so get there early to get one of the best tables and views. They have an excellent view over the rooftops and domes of Rome. It’s also the best value for money aperitivo when it comes to rooftop bars.

I’ve tried quite a few aperitivos at rooftop bars in Rome (and all over Italy in general) and I was very happy with this one.

The prices are relatively not too high, and the selection of nibbles they brought us was abundant and delicious. You can go even if you’re visiting Rome in winter, as the terrace had outdoor heating.

View over Rome from AcquaRoof Terrazza Molinari

Parks with awesome Rome views

There are many beautiful parks in Rome. Some of these are blessed with viewing terraces and epic views of Rome. Here are the best ones.

Terrazza del Pincio

Villa Borghese is one of my favourite places in Rome. This huge park is located right in the centre of Rome, and has many spots where you can relax and enjoy a break from the hustle and bustle of the city.

At the South-Western extremity of Villa Borghese you will find Pincio Terrace, a 19^th century terrace with epic views of Piazza del Popolo, Saint Peter’s Basilica and the Rome skyline.

Pincio Terrace is also a very relaxing spot, with fountains and benches where you can sit and enjoy the view. You will often find also street performers and food vendors here.

View over Piazza del Popolo and Rome from Terrazza del Pincio

Belvedere del Gianicolo

The Gianicolo hill is the second-tallest hill in Rome. It’s located west of the Tiber, and has an incredible view over the Rome skyline.

Being just outside the boundaries of the ancient city, and being slightly taller than the surroundings, means it has a sweeping view over the whole of central Rome.

Make sure to come at sunset for an incredible view of Rome, with the sky turning orange and reflecting on the rooftops of the city.

https://www.instagram.com/p/CEkJUKajZ12/

Giardino degli Aranci

Parco Savello, also known as Giardino degli Aranci (Orange Trees Garden in English) is, in my opinion, one of the loveliest places in Rome.

This 7,800 square metres park is located on Aventine Hill, and the garden was designed by Raffaele de Vico in 1932.

It has an incredible view over Rome. It’s located just above the Tiber River and overlooks Trastevere neighbourhood. From here you can see in the distance the dome of St Peter.

The garden itself is also a beautiful spot, with lots of trees and space to relax. The wall lining the viewing terrace is a popular spot amongst both locals and tourists.

It’s an especially pretty spot at sunset. You should definitely visit if you’re in Rome in spring, since all the flowers of the garden will be in bloom, making it even more magical.

Enjoying the sunset over Rome from Giardino degli Aranci

Where to stay in Rome

If you’re looking for somewhere convenient to get to all these beautiful viewpoints, here are some of the best places to stay in Rome!

If you want great views always, you can also choose one of these hotels with Colosseum view, a hotel near the Pantheon or one of these lovely Rome AirBnbs.

Budget: Palladini Hostel – This hostel is super central, close to the train station and all the action of Rome, with spacious dorms and a lively atmosphere.

Book your stay at Palladini Hostel!

Mid-range: Tridente Rooms – The rooms of this bnb are simple but spacious, and it’s right next to Villa Borghese, in the heart of all the Rome attractions.

Click here to see prices and availability at Tridente Rooms!

Luxury: Hotel Eden – Dorchester Collection – Perfect if you want to treat yourself, this hotel is beautifully decorated and very conveniently located in the centre of Rome.

Click here to book your stay at Hotel Eden – Dorchester Collection!

The beautiful facade of the Trevi fountain in Rome

Final thoughts on the best viewpoints in Rome

Rome is a beautiful city with a very distinctive skyline. It’s only normal that there would be so many incredible viewpoints in Rome. With its domes, rooftops and parks, there’s nowhere else quite like Rome.

In this guide I put together all my personal favourite viewpoints in Rome. Are there are spots that you think should feature in this list? Let me know in the comments, I’d love to know about them!

I spend more time in Rome these days and am always on the hunt for the best views. I hope you find this compilation of the best views in Rome useful for planning your time in Rome.

Looking for more Italy travel tips? Check out these guides!

Best Views in Rome: 15 Gorgeous Viewpoints in Rome