Written by Tom Hooker

Whether it’s an iconic city or an entire country, there are dozens of travel destinations that make you feel like you’re traveling through time or walking in a scene from a science fiction book. From Europe or Africa to Asia and beyond, we’re on a mission to help you unveil these mysterious and fantastic places. In this week’s Fantastic Destination series, we’re exploring Rome.

The Eternal City, the City of Seven Hills, and the One City of the Soul. Rome has been called many different things over the years. Yet no moniker can live up to the grandeur and absolute treasure that is the capital of Italy. The question is not whether or not to visit Rome, but how long you should spend in it. It’s possible to explore beautiful, iconic places like the Trevi Fountain, the Pantheon, the Via Sacra, and the Roman Forum for days on end. Let’s be clear. It doesn’t matter if you decide to stay a few hours or weeks; the mystical streets of the Eternal City always have an adventure waiting around the corner. Here are seven stops you absolutely have to make the next time you visit Rome.

#1. Piazza del Popolo

One of the things that make Rome great is the genuinely ancient monuments adorning the city. So, for your first stop, head over to Piazza del Popolo, which is a massive pedestrian area that hosts the city’s biggest celebrations. With a name that translates to the People’s Square, this scenic plaza is surrounded by the Aurelian Walls which were built almost 1,750 years ago. Plus, in addition to the Egyptian obelisk at the center and picturesque churches that fence-in the Piazza, you can go up to the Pincio viewpoint and check out one of the best angles the city has to offer. 

#2. The Catacombs of Callixtus

There are plenty of cities with catacombs in Europe, but Rome’s Catacombs of Callixtus have to be among the eeriest. Built in the middle of the second century, this impressive underground system of interconnected crypts is part of a cemetery that expands for more than 90 acres. These are divided into four levels and run more than 40 feet in depth. How deep you go depends on your spirit of adventure and the tour you book, so make sure to plan ahead and prepare for an exhilarating experience. 

#3. Basilica Papale di Santa Maria Maggiore

The Basilica Papale di Santa Maria Maggiore (Basilica of Saint Mary Major) is the largest temple dedicated to the Virgin Mary in Rome. Spiritual meaning aside, the Basilica of Saint Mary Major contains artwork that’s as beautiful as any other found in Rome. The motif of most of the art? The Virgin Mary protecting Rome and all its people, which actually constitutes some of the earliest mosaic decorations in the city. 

#4. Monument to Victor Emmanuel II

The Altare della Patria, also known as the National Monument of Victor Emmanuel II, is another must-visit while in Rome. This imposing statue and national landmark was built to celebrate Victor Emmanuel II, the first king to unify Italy under one flag. This is the reason why the Museum of Italian Unification is actually located at the base of the monument, so make sure to swing by if you’re interested in knowing more about the country’s origins. 

#5. Castel Sant’Angelo

Castles are a trademark of Europe and Italy is no exception. If you’re in Rome and want to check out a monumental ancient castle up close, look no further than Castel Sant’Angelo. A unique cylindrical defensive fortress built almost 2,000 years ago, the castle has been transformed into a museum that allows visitors to wander around its confined basement tunnels and admire its original defense cannons up close. 

#6. Villa Borghese Gardens and Museums

The Villa Borghese Gardens is one of the biggest open green spaces in Rome, so it’s a great place to take a break and get away from the city’s hustle and bustle. Boasting lush green forests and perfectly manicured lawns, the park also has a unique trait: a network of luxurious villas that have been repurposed as art galleries that you can explore once you’re ready to continue your adventure. 

#7. The Colosseum

Featured in hundreds, if not thousands, of works of books, movies, and paintings, the Colosseum doesn’t need an introduction. Instead, we’ll give you an insider tip here. If you visit Rome on the first Sunday of the month between October and March, it’s free to get into the Colosseum. And the same goes for all other paid museums and attractions on this list!

Rome is such a massive and magical city that you can make exactly what you want of it. Great food, fantastic monuments, cutting-edge fashion, vibrant nightlife, and much more. Find the best spots by creating an itinerary with a local guide who knows the city like the back of their hand. Ready to make Rome yours? Download ALLMYNE and start planning your trip!

Featured image courtesy of Sara Darcaj on Unsplash