I am the queen of taking a million photos. Ask anyone who has ever gone on vacation with me. I love being able to go back and have more vivid memories of all the places I’ve traveled to. To be completely honest, the entire city of Rome is insanely gorgeous, and every street will most likely be Instagram worthy. Although if you’re only here for a short period of time, these are the main spots I recommend to get your THE shot.
Trevi Fountain
We’ll start off with the basics. This incredible landmark is even more beautiful in person. Because of its popularity, the fountain is usually packed by 10:00-11:00am depending on the day during the summer. To get this shot with no interruptions and only a couple other tourists to dodge, we got to the Trevi Fountain at 9:00am. Which in my opinion, was perfect timing. It was breathtaking being able to enjoy the landmark without so much noise and movement.
The Spanish Steps
These steps are iconic and a must-have photo opportunity in the city. I’ve gone to the Spanish Steps a couple times in the afternoon, and let me tell you it’s nearly impossible to get a picture without anyone else in it. Unless you’re a god at photoshop or wake up at sunset. The closest we got was after going to the Trevi Fountain, so we arrived at the steps around 9:30am. There were significantly less people compared to later hours. So, come early (sunset to 9:30am) if you want to get a solo shot of you and the steps.
Rooftop Bars
Terrazza Borromini Rooftop
First up we have the Terrazza Borromini Rooftop. You have an entire view of the city, and it’s beautiful. When I came across this gem, I went to their location and found out that it was actually a hotel and this was their rooftop bar/restaurant. Luckily, it was a rainy day so the manager let us on the empty rooftop to check out the view. Most of the time you do need a reservation, so keep that in mind. The vibe and menu is upscale, so is the dress code!
P.S. Come here for tapas around sunset, it’ll be magical.
47 Circus Roof Garden
Next, we have 47 Circus. Come here at golden hour just before sunset and see the most insane view of the city. We came to celebrate a friend’s birthday. Although the menu was a bit pricey and the food was only average. I’d recommend a drink and light dinner to start the night.
The Vatican
Every inch of Vatican city is full of immense detail and beauty. From St. Peter’s Square and Basilica, to the Vatican Museum and Sistine Chapel. There are a ton of photo opportunities. Every window in the Vatican Museum looks like it’s straight out of a magazine. A cool opportunity is to climb the Basilica dome. Come early to Vatican city around 8:00am when the entrance to the dome opens up and be one of the first in line, or around sunset time.
Keep in mind when finding the perfect outfit that you have to cover your shoulders and knees when entering the Basilica, out of respect. The other parts of Vatican City don’t follow the same rule, so bring a shaw or scarf if you plan on visiting inside the church.
The Streets of Trastevere
Take time out to get lost in the streets and find quiet ones like the one I found above. Sometimes, the best spots are the ones you never knew you’d find. Luckily, it’s pretty easy to find streets no ones on that still holds all of Rome’s beauty. Trastevere is a bit quieter and just as gorgeous. A lot of vibrant colored buildings in between the small stores and restaurants.
The Colosseum
Among those most iconic monuments is the Colosseum. Just as amazing in person, you definitely want to add this to your list. One of the best places to get a shot of the building from a different, less crowded spot is from Via Nicola Salvi. An infamous ledge that allows you to capture your shot from a different perspective.
Roman Forum
Right next to the Colosseum we have the ancient ruins. We were able to go in right before close with no lines and very little people inside. You will be absolutely mesmerized at how massive these ruins are. There’s plenty of ways you can get creative here. With the blooming flowers and beautiful architecture it’s hard not to get an amazing picture.
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