There is something absolutely magical about Rome that attracts every years millions and millions of tourists. It maybe be its romantic charm, rich history, or the incredible Italian food. But there is one thing for sure: Rome is undeniably one of the most photogenic destinations in the world! So wether you are a passionate photographer or just want to surprise your followers you will love these selection of the best photo spots in Rome!
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Table of Content
- 1. The Colosseum
- 2. The Roman Forum
- 3. Arch of Constantine
- 4. Palatine Hill
- 5. Altare della Patria
- 6. Galleria Doria Pamphilj
- 7. The Pantheon
- 8. Piazza Navona
- 9. Galleria Sciarra
- 10. Trevi Fountain
- 11. Spanish Steps
- 12. Villa Borghese Gardens
- 13. St. Peter’s Square and Basilica
- 14. Castel Sant’Angelo
- 15. Palazzo della Civiltà Italiana (Square Colosseum)
- 16. Trastevere
- 17. Marble Stadium
- One last word about the best photo spots in Rome
1. The Colosseum
The Colosseum is one of the most iconic landmarks in the world. And there are literally millions of visitors entering inside it years every year. But there is no need to enter inside to catch the perfect shot for your socials!
In fact there are plenty of perfect spots to photograph the Colosseum even from the outside (in this guide I’ll give you 9). The best to mention? The glimpse from Largo Gaetana Agnesi, or the scenic view from the temple of Venus, inside the Roman Forum Archaeological Park.
Even though, going to Rome without visiting the Colosseum is like eating Italian pasta without Parmigiano (you know what I mean! 😉 ). Do you need help to find the perfect Colosseum tickets/guided tour? I’ve got the perfect guide to help you choose the best solution.
2. The Roman Forum
The pulsing heart of ancient Rome, the Roman Forum and its archaeological park are among the most incredible and well preserved ruins in the world. Again if you want to save some money you can take some very good photos just by walking along via dei Fori Imperiali.
But once you are inside you can get lost between columns and ancient buildings, the wow effect is granted! And you can save money by buying a combined ticket for the Colosseum and the Roman Forums.
3. Arch of Constantine
The Arch of Constantine is strategically located between the archaeological ruins of the Palatine Hill and the Colosseum. Due to its location it gets very crowded. But early in the morning when the colors are still soft and reddish, you can take some beautiful photos of the Arch.
Depending on the orientation you can of course include the Colosseum in the frame as well. The arch is situated very close to the gates to enter the Palatine Hill and Roman Forum Archaeological Park.
My advice: Plan your visit to the Colosseum first, then pass by the Arch of Constantine and continue your visit to the Palatine.
4. Palatine Hill
The Palatine Hill is often overlooked by tourists visiting the Archaeological Park. That’s probably because of its elevate position. Although the view it has on the Roman Forum and ancient ruins will make you believe you used a time machine to go back in time.
You have the complete view of Via Nova with all the ancient buildings including Titus Arch. Sure they have suffered the test of time, but their condition is remarkable and makes it perfect for some of the best photos of Ancient Rome.
Note: to access the Palatine Hill you will need the ticket which includes the Colosseum and Roman Forum.
5. Altare della Patria
Also known as Vittoriano, and Monument to Vittorio Emanuele (the first king of unified Italy), Altare della Patria is one of the most impressive monuments in Rome. On the inside you can visit an interesting museum about the late 19th century and the story of the Unification of Italy.
The perfect view of the Altare della Patria (Altar of the Fatherland), is on the left side of Piazza Venezia, which faces the monument. There are many cars circulating but the avenue is very large and you can even step off from the sidewalk to take a better shot (please be careful to the cars!)
6. Galleria Doria Pamphilj
Doria Pamphilj Gallery is an incredible art collection (and one of Rome’s hidden gems) that features some works of the most famous Renaissance and Baroque painters, like Caravaggio and Raphael.
Hosted in the family’s private palace, the interiors are worth visiting alone. The Baroque residence features some furniture that was preserved through the centuries. But the most surprising feature of the museum is the hall where many statues and paintings are, that strongly reminds the Hall of the Mirrors in Versailles.
Inside the museum you may sometimes spot artists at work to restore the paintings. Galleria Doria Pamphilj is indeed one of the most beautiful art collections in Rome!
7. The Pantheon
The Pantheon is one of the oldest buildings in Rome. Built as a pagan temple it has been converted into a church since the 7th century.
If you are an early bird you can take some memorable pictures from the square in front of the Church. Fontana del Pantheon which is in the center of the square is one of the most beautiful fountains in Rome.
Since Summer ’23 you will need to pay a small fee to access the Pantheon. You can buy the tickets on getyourguide, they include an audioguide.
What to expect once you are on the inside? The circular structure is a triumph of different marbles and fine decorations. The aesthetic is mesmerizing, even if the light conditions may be less optimal for your photos.
8. Piazza Navona
Piazza Navona is surrounded by magnificent Baroque architecture, including the famous Fountain of the Four Rivers at its center. But that’s not all! Piazza Navona is home to two other beautiful fountains, the Fontana del Moro and the Fontana del Nettuno. These fountains offer unique and picturesque subjects for photography.
One of the advantages of the square is that it’s so large that even in the most crowded summer months you can take some memorable pictures. Of course for some solo pictures you must privilege early in the morning or in the late afternoon.
Piazza Navona is also packed with bars and restaurants. I won’t recommend them for eating as they are pretty expensive comparing to other areas, but why not enjoy a fresh drink, or take a good breakfast?!
9. Galleria Sciarra
Unless you’ve seen it in pictures (and even so it will still be beautiful!), Galleria Sciarra catch you by surprise. You enter the hall and are welcomed by the intricate decors on the walls.
The gallery which had a practical function to connect the commissioners properties, is one of the most important art nouveau expressions in Rome.
The light conditions are of course lower than in outdoor places, but nothing your phone or camera can’t manage.
Sciarra Gallery is open from Monday to Friday from 9 AM to 6.30 PM.
10. Trevi Fountain
Trevi Fountain is one of the most beautiful fountains in the world and probably one of the most iconic landmarks in Italy. The beautiful details of its Baroque decorations are a joy for the eyes and the camera.
The only technical difficulty when taking a picture of it, are the hundreds of people waiting to take the perfect shot as well. There aren’t many solutions, if you want the Baroque marvel all to yourself you will need to set an early wake up call and get there as soon as the sun is up. I’m talking about 6 – 7 AM.
Once the golden hour is gone so your opportunities for solo pictures. You are wondering how did I got this picture at 9 AM? The sides can be less photographed than the front, but that’s also luck! And I couldn’t take any frontal crowd free photo for the record.
11. Spanish Steps
Would you like to reproduce the iconic photo of Audrey Hepburn graciously walking down the Spanish Steps in Roman Holidays? Then you already know our next stop!
The Spanish Steps are among the most iconic spots in Rome. Just think about the fashion show that takes place there. Without forgetting Via Condotti, one of Rome most hyped shopping streets.
Just like the above mentioned locations the Spanish steps get overcrowded. If you want the “I’ve got Rome all by my self” shot, get up early.
12. Villa Borghese Gardens
The gardens of Villa Borghese are an oasis of calm inside the chaotic center of Rome. The lush greenery that transforms the park during spring and summer makes it the perfect backdrop for some stunning pictures.
But of course that’s not the only reason. Facing the small lake of Aescolapius, the temple which names the lake was built at the end of the 18th century in neoclassic style. If you are up for some sport you can also rent a small boat and row into the lake.
Another point of interest is the Villa Borghese and its impressive collection. If you are interested in history and art don’t miss the opportunity of visiting it.
And before leaving don’t forget to take a photo of the panoramic view from il Pincio terrace. Towering over Piazza del Popolo you have one of the most beautiful views of Rome.
13. St. Peter’s Square and Basilica
The Vatican is a feast of marble and gold accents, a joy for the eyes. To take the most memorable photos just head over St. Peter’s Square, outside particular religious events the square isn’t crowded except for the barriers.
Even more stunning than the external facade, the Basilica’ interiors hit you with its grandiosity. Take a moment to admire the beautiful altar sculpted by Gianlorenzo Bernini and the incredible works of art that decor the interiors.
Would you like to take the views to another level? Climb up to the Cupolone, St. Peter’s Dome and be rewarded with a stunning view of the eternal city.
14. Castel Sant’Angelo
Castel Sant’Angelo initially was built as Hadrian’s Mausoleum. But at the beginning of the 14th century the pope changed its structure and function into a castle. Nowadays the fortress has become a museum that if you have the time to visit it’s well worth it!
Do you want to take the perfect picture of Castel Sant’Angelo? The spot you are looking for is the bridge that welcomes the visitors to the fortress. The glimpse of the bridge decorated with the statues of 10 angels, with the fortress on the background is one of Rome’s most famous pictures.
15. Palazzo della Civiltà Italiana (Square Colosseum)
Have you ever heard of the Colosseum? Of course. But did you know about its cousin the Square Colosseum? Situated in the scenic neighborhood of the EUR, il Palazzo della Civiltà Italiana (Palace of Italian Heritage), attracts architects and photographers alike because of its unusual aesthetic.
The location has been the set of many movies including Titus and Zoolander 2. Nowadays it has become the headquarters of the Italian fashion house Fendi. To take the perfect shot place yourself in front of the building from the stairs.
16. Trastevere
Cobblestone narrow alleys? Vintage cars? Enchanting corners? You just landed in Trastevere, one of the loveliest neighborhoods in Rome. Good food and lovely backdrops makes of it a great destinations if you are looking to take good photos and chill after an intense day of exploration.
Some adresses you shouldn’t miss? The most picturesque are Ponte Sisto and Villa Sciarra, and also the streets around Basilica of Our Lady in Trastevere.
17. Marble Stadium
60 marble statues, each 4 meters high, name and decor the marble stadium. The complex which clearly reminds ancient Rome’s architecture, was built during Mussolini’s government and is part of the Foro Italico, a huge complex of sport centers.
You can enter inside the stadium, although just mind to not disturb the athletes training. The Marbles’ Stadium is open daily from 8.30 AM to 8 PM. On Saturday it closes its doors at 6 PM, while Sunday opening time is from 9.30 AM to 1 PM.
One last word about the best photo spots in Rome
Rome ever ceases to amaze. It’s alive and eternal, and there is always something new to discover. I’m sure this list will evolve and grow with each new visit I’ll have in Rome. but for now I hope you liked my selection of locations! If you need more inspiration don’t forget to check out our Lazio and Rome itineraries and guides!
We have a practical guide on how to see Rome’s main landmarks in a day, which includes many of the iconic locations listed above. And if you need help to find the perfect caption for your Instagram posts, check out our collection of puns, quotes and captions about Rome.
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