Rome Attractions Guide Sight in Rome

Rome, the Eternal City, should be a destination for all world travelers. With some of the most intriguing historical monuments and grandest art collections in the world, Rome is home to endless attractions. Vatican City, the Coliseum, the Forum, Trevi Fountain, St. Peter's Basilica, world-famous shopping and unforgettable local cuisine make Rome a non-stop vacation spot for all tastes. It is said that to truly see everything of interest in Rome would take years. While you most likely do not have years to travel, the following are some attractions that are not to be missed.

The Vatican City is the smallest and wealthiest country in the world. With a population of only 750, the Vatican City sees hoards of tourists stream through its ornate gates each day. St. Peter's Basilica is the epitome of Catholic splendor; a cathedral in which St. Peter, one of Jesus' twelve apostles, is said to be buried. The dome atop the Basilica was designed by Michelangelo and is a prominent feature of the Rome skyline. In addition to the Basilica, the Vatican is home to an excellent museum with a large collection of Renaissance art, Egyptian, Greek and Roman artifacts. Follow the winding and overwhelmingly decorated hallways of the Vatican Museum to the Sistine Chapel, where one can silently enjoy Michelangelo's most famous work.

The next spot in Rome which must not be missed is the Coliseum. The largest of its kind, this Coliseum once held 50,000 spectators. Its construction began in 70 AD and the building was in use until the sixth century. The Coliseum was used for many things throughout its lifetime including gladiator games, dramas, animal fights and later as a fortress. Though much of the marble seating has been pillaged, the Coliseum remains one of the best surviving examples of Roman architecture.

Trevi fountain is a gorgeous example of the ornate and elaborate construction afforded to public edifices throughout the city. Made famous in Fellini's "La Dolce Vita" this fountain is most spectacular at night. Lit from beneath, the bright blue water and gorgeous collection of angels, nymphs and other such fountain-worthy creatures make this creation exemplary of over-done and over-blown Roman construction.

Nevertheless, we are all glad it's there. The best time to visit the fountain is just before dawn, when the hoards of tourists are asleep and only the hopeless romantics stroll in hopes of a clandestine dip.

The Spanish steps, a set of 138 stairs linking the Trinita dei Monti church to the Piazza di Spagna below, is another famous Roman destination. Once a popular spot for sitting and enjoying lunch, these azalea-lined streets are home to flower stands, mimes, performing artists and a lovely view. The thorough fair below the steps can be a crowded, but entertaining stroll and the top of the stairs makes for a perfect tourist photo opportunity.

Beyond those sights listed, every Roman street has enough shopping, angels, gargoyles, cobblestones and cappuccinos to keep you feeling relaxed and romantic for a lifetime.