In February 2024, I traveled to Paris on a Friday, but the return trip was quite expensive. So it was convenient that there was a cheap ticket to Rome on Monday morning, and then from there to Budapest late Tuesday evening. With this, I was able to make up for the missed attractions.

Since I love beautiful churches, I visited 16 churches during the day and a half! However, I’ll only write about those that stand out from the rest! And all of them are free!

Monday

Getting into Rome

The plane landed at Fiumicino airport at noon on Monday, from where I traveled to Roma Termini station on the Leonardo Express. I bought the ticket online at the station, 14 euros one way. It takes 30 minutes to get to the main station, this is the simplest way to enter. The QR code received must be scanned at the entrance gate and then you can board the train. The ticket can be purchased on the Trenitalia website (registration required).

My accommodation was two streets away from Termini, I dropped off my bag and went straight to the city. Since most of the sights are in the city center, I didn’t buy a day ticket, I walked everywhere. True, by Tuesday afternoon I didn’t feel like walking much anymore, but that’s the price if you want to see a lot in a short time. 🙂

Santa Maria Maggiore Basilica

This church, which I have to highlight, was two blocks from my accommodation. There were many tourists along with me, which shows that it’s worth visiting.

In addition to its large size, what stands out is the gilded ceiling and the side row of columns. I also came here in the evening, it’s beautiful when illuminated.

Forum of Augustus and Trajan’s Market

After about a 1 km walk, I arrived opposite the Roman Forum, where this ancient part is located.

Most of it consists of wall and column remains, but the market hall is quite distinguishable. The semicircular part of the building is in particularly good condition.

Victor Emmanuel II Monument

The marble monument can be called Budapest’s Heroes’ Square. In front of the colonnade section, you can see the equestrian statue of King Victor Emmanuel II, who was the first king of united Italy.

Definitely go up the stairs, because both the monument itself and the view are magnificent. You can walk around, so you can also see the Colosseum. You can exit to the western side through the building (there’s a free restroom inside).

Campidoglio

The Capitol, designed by Michelangelo, rises behind the monument. You have to climb up a staircase, but it’s worth it.

In the center of the small square is the equestrian statue of Marcus Aurelius, with two museums on either side. On the opposite side of the square, a small street leads to the right, from where there is a wonderful panorama of the Roman Forum.

Teatro di Marcello

I continued walking towards the Tiber, and along the main road we come across a „mini Colosseum”. The ancient theater can only be viewed from the outside, but it’s a very atmospheric place, as are the surrounding streets.

Fontana delle Tartarughe

Rome is also abundant in fountains, but of course everyone looks at the Trevi Fountain. Yet there are also some very cute small fountains. Like this one. I love little gems like this.

Largo di Torre Argentina

I stumbled upon this square on my way to Piazza Navona. Here too we can see ancient ruins, in fact I moved on after a short stop.

Sant’Andrea della Valle Basilica

A heavy shower arrived almost instantly, so I reached the church just in time (it was planned anyway).

Its interior is very beautiful, characterized by a huge dome and wonderful frescoes. Honestly, I’m not very religious, but such a church really fills one with energy.

Piazza Navona

Rome’s most beautiful square – in my opinion – where three very beautiful fountains stand. No wonder there were so many people. Needless to say, here too a church is the other defining building. However, it was not possible to enter this one.

Fortunately, it was no longer raining here, in fact the weather was starting to clear.

San Luigi dei Francesi

I discovered this on my way to the Pantheon. This is France’s national church, with Caravaggio paintings inside. Don’t miss it!

Pantheon

In 2022, it was still free, but now you have to buy a ticket. This wouldn’t have been a problem, but the crowd was. The line was terribly long, people were admitted to the church in sections.

Although I would have liked to see it from the inside, I didn’t feel like waiting, so I walked around it and moved on.

Column of Marcus Aurelius

I emerged on the square on my way to the Trevi Fountain, in the middle of which rises the tall, ornate column.

On the square, there is also a government building and a small fountain. I managed to take a very nice picture here:

Trevi Fountain

I don’t think I need to write much here. The crowd was huge now, just like two years ago. Everyone wants to take a photo up close, some even climb onto the monument. I don’t understand what they’re thinking…

Piazza della Repubblica

Walking towards the accommodation, there is also a fountain in the middle of the junction in front of the Termini station. The sunset and the clouds together provided such a sight, as if it were a painting:

Tuesday

Luggage storage

Since I didn’t want to carry my bag all day, I looked for a storage place online. BagLocker is two streets away from Termini, open from 7 am to 11 pm. You need to book online in advance, and you also need to provide a four-digit code. In the confirmation email, there will be a link that, when clicked, opens the box (and the code is also needed). Within the booked period, we can open it with the link as many times as we want.

There are boxes of various sizes, the smallest was more than enough for my backpack and coat. It was 9 euros, which was well worth it to be able to leave it in a safe place.

Colosseum

Obviously this is the most well-known, although it’s not my „1st place”.

You have to book tickets online, there are 10-minute time slots. I booked for 10:10 on Tuesday, and I got in line a few minutes before. The ticket shows where the entrance is. Despite the huge crowd, I got in quite quickly. You can walk halfway around the lower level and completely around the upper level. For the closed sections, you need a Full Experience ticket, which is a bit more expensive.

What they built in ancient times is impressive. Its size can truly be seen from the inside. Of course, I didn’t expect much more, I spent about 40 minutes inside.

The ticket is also valid for the Roman Forum, and together the two are definitely worth the price! You can enter there from the time booked for the Colosseum until 24 hours later.

Santi Giovanni e Paolo Basilica

Before the Roman Forum, I popped into this church. Its specialty is that the interior is illuminated with decorated chandeliers. However, they don’t burn constantly, the light switch works with 5 euros.

Someone just put in money before me, so I could admire the church like this for a while. But it would have been well worth it if I had had to pay for it. I think this comes across in the pictures too.

Roman Forum

As I mentioned, the ticket is valid together with the Colosseum. Since they are next to each other, I entered through the entrance closest to the arena (Via di S. Gregorio, 30). Since there is no specific time here, there is no large crowd, I got in almost immediately.

It’s worth following the route posted at the entrance. First it leads on the side towards the Circus Maximus, then comes the viewpoint to the large area. From here, the view to the lower part is the most beautiful. You have to go down the stairs to this plaza, which was once one of Rome’s main centers.

Trastevere

I walked over to the other side of the Tiber, which is an atmospheric neighborhood. There are many restaurants and cafes, and you can take very nice walks on the narrow little streets.

St. Peter’s Square

There is always a large crowd in the square, and now was no exception. Since touring the Vatican requires a lot of time, I didn’t plan for this.

Castel Sant’Angelo

Since I had an appointment at Villa Borghese, unfortunately I couldn’t go in, I just walked around the outside. Good pictures can be taken from the bridge in front of it. (There is a restroom on the left side when facing the castle.)

Piazza del Popolo

There are usually many amateur performing artists on one of Rome’s central squares. There was a pianist, a singer, and a guitarist too. That’s why I rested here for 10 minutes, enjoying the atmosphere a bit.

One striking feature of the square is the two domed churches next to each other. I’ve never seen anything like it, as if they made a copy. 🙂

Villa Borghese

A large park in the immediate vicinity of the city center. Actually, it’s an average green area, with some statues, fountains, buildings.

Borghese Gallery

In the Borghese park, in the villa of the same name, is the famous collection. A week before, tickets were only available for the latest time slot (17:45-19:00), which is a few euros cheaper than normal.

For me, this took the prize, no wonder I was looking forward to this the most! Wonderful rooms, the ceiling frescoes and the decorated walls would be worth the visit on their own. But you can see many works by famous artists: Tiziano, Caravaggio, Rubens, Raffaelo.

There are two floors, one with only paintings, the other with sculptures in addition to that. Among the latter, Bernini’s works must be highlighted.

Out to the airport

The Wizz Air flight to Hungary, Budapest departed at 22:55 from Fiumicino airport. I also went out from Termini on the Leonardo Express, bought the ticket online a few hours before. Here too, you have to scan the QR code at the entrance gate and then you can go to the train. Compared to Italians, everything goes very smoothly and the train is punctual. 🙂

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Transportation between airports and Rome

Fiumicino Airport

Leonardo Express train

Runs from early morning to late evening to Termini railway station.

Tickets can be purchased from Trenitalia vending machines or at tobacco shops in the train station. After validation before boarding, you can travel for 90 minutes.

The price for a one-way ticket is €14. Free for children under 4. Children aged 4-12 can travel free with an adult holding a ticket!

All information (including online ticket purchase) can be found here!

FR1 train

Runs from early morning to late evening, with metro connections at Ostiense, Tuscolana, and Tiburtina stops.

Tickets can be purchased online, from Trenitalia vending machines or at tobacco shops in the train station. After validation before boarding, you can travel for 90 minutes.

The price for a one-way ticket is €8. Free for children under 4. Children aged 4-12 can travel free with an adult holding a ticket!

All information (including online ticket purchase) can be found here!

Transfer buses

All buses run to the central railway station in the city center, Termini.

At Termini, the departure point is on the right side of the street facing the station. There’s also a ticket office here, but tickets can also be purchased online.

• SIT bus: €7 one-way, €13 round trip. Information here!
• Terravision: €6.50 one-way. Information here!
• T.A.M bus: €7 one-way, €12 round trip. Information here!
• Rome Airport Bus: €5.90 one-way, €9.90 round trip. Information here!

Night transportation

Cotral buses run between the airport and Tiburtina metro station. Follow the Regional Bus Station sign at the airport.

Price one-way: €5 online, €7 from the driver.

Timetable can be found here!

Ciampino Airport

Bus 520

Runs to Cinecittà metro station (Line A), from where you can reach the city center by metro.

Public transport tickets and passes are valid!

Bus 720

Runs to Laurentina metro station (Line B), from where you can reach the city center by metro. It has a longer journey time than bus 520, recommended for those heading to the southern part of Rome.

Public transport tickets and passes are valid!

Transfer buses

Also run to Termini train station.

• SIT bus: €6 one-way, €11 round trip. Information here!
• Terravision: €6 one-way, €11 round trip. Information here!
• Rome Airport Bus: €6.90 one-way, €9.90 round trip. Information here!

Rome city public transportation

Tickets and passes must be validated when entering the metro area, and when boarding trams and buses. When leaving the metro, you must also insert the ticket or pass in the appropriate place.

For passes, the device prints the time when it becomes valid on first use.

Public transportation is free for children under 10, except for airport and transfer services!

Single ticket (BIT)

Valid for 100 minutes from validation, transfers are allowed within this time. You can also transfer on the metro, but only as long as you don’t leave the metro area (similar to Budapest).

Price: 1.50 €

Group ticket (MULTI-BIT)

A single card that allows you to travel 2, 3, 5 or 10 times up to 100 minutes from the date of validation. When the 100-minute period expires, the card must be revalidated, which starts the next 100-minute period.

The price is the same as the corresponding number of tickets, so no discount is included. This is worth buying if you are making fewer trips and do not need to buy a separate ticket.

Daily and weekly passes

24, 48, 72-hour and weekly passes are available, allowing unlimited travel by metro, bus, and tram from first validation.

The weekly ticket (CIS) is valid for 7 calendar days, with the first day being the day of validation.

All information can be found here!

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The capital of Italy was the centre of the former Roman Empire. Its extensive historical center is part of the UNESCO World Heritage. Its museums and monuments are among the 50 most visited tourist destinations in the world.

Rome attractions

Colosseum

One of the world’s most famous buildings, primarily a venue for gladiator battles, but other performances were also held here.

Construction began in 72 AD under Emperor Vespasian at the southeastern end of the Forum Romanum. It was originally called the Flavian Amphitheater. It got its current name in the Middle Ages, presumably from a nearby statue of the colossus associated with Nero.

It has an elliptical floor plan, 188 meters long, 156 meters wide, and 48.5 meters high, made of limestone, tuff, and brick. It was designed to accommodate 50-75 thousand people smoothly.

The basic ticket (named: 24h – Colosseo, Foro Romano, Palatino) is valid for 24 hours from first use (entry) and during this time also grants entry to the Forum Romanum. At the Colosseum, this ticket does not allow access to the arena and the underground part (this is possible with the Full Experience ticket)!

Free entry on the first Sunday of every month! (However, a free ticket must be obtained on-site.)

All information and ticket purchase can be found here!

Forum Romanum

Adjacent to the Colosseum, this vast area was the main public square of ancient Rome, serving as a commercial and political hub.

Many building remains stand, such as the Temple of Romulus, the Arch of Titus, and the Temple of Julius Caesar. There were temples to several gods here, including those of Saturn, Janus, and Concordia at the foot of the Capitolium, and the Temple of Vesta at the foot of the Palatine.

It’s worth spending a few hours to explore the entire area. I recommend entering on the eastern side at the Portale Vignola – Ingresso Colle Palatino and starting left. This way, you will see the most beautiful part of the Forum Romanum from above.

Entry is valid with the Colosseum ticket, described above!

Trevi Fountain

Rome’s most famous and globally known fountain. Legend has it that those who throw a coin into it will surely return to Rome. It is the city’s largest fountain.

It was renovated a few years ago and now offers even more stunning views in the evening lighting. No wonder it is one of the biggest tourist attractions among Rome’s sights.

Unfortunately, in recent times, several tourists thought it would be „fun” to enter the water. Definitely do not do this; serious fines are involved, besides being quite tasteless!

Spanish Steps

The 138 steps leading to the Trinitá dei Monti church are a favorite spot for both locals and tourists. It gets its name from the nearby Spanish Embassy.

At its base, you find one of the city’s most interesting fountains, the Fontana di Barcacci, created by Gianlorenzo Bernini.

Sitting on the steps is prohibited, and police constantly monitor the area and will intervene if someone tries to sit down!

Pantheon

One of the most significant creations of ancient architecture, the Pantheon still stands largely in its original form in the center of Rome.

In modern times, the term has become synonymous with grand buildings that serve as the burial places for distinguished personalities. Such pantheons have been constructed in numerous cities around the world. Among others, it is the resting place of Raphael, King Victor Emmanuel II, and King Umberto I of Italy.

Entry is free on the first Sunday of every month!

All information can be found here!

Victor Emmanuel II Monument

Located in one of Rome’s busiest squares, this monument is considered an important national symbol of the country.

In front of the columns stands the equestrian statue of King Victor Emmanuel II, the first king of unified Italy and a key figure in the formation of national unity.

The monument is architecturally and artistically significant, measuring 135 meters wide and 70 meters high, reaching up to 81 meters high with its towering sculptures.

In front of the massive monument, similar to Budapest, lies the tomb of the unknown soldier, flanked by a fountain on each side.

An elevator allows visitors to ascend to the top of the monument, offering a magnificent view of the city.

Capitoline Hill

Next to the monument rises one of the seven hills of Rome, known in Italian as the Campidoglio. The square was constructed based on the designs of Michelangelo.

Today, the square houses the Palazzo dei Conservatori (where the statue of Rome’s founders, Romulus and Remus, can be seen), the Palazzo Senatori, and the Palazzo Nuovo.

Piazza del Popolo

Not far from the Spanish Steps, this historic square features a beautiful fountain and Rome’s second oldest obelisk at its center.

The square is bordered by three churches, the most notable being the Basilica of Santa Maria del Popolo, renowned for its Renaissance and Baroque masterpieces, including two paintings by Caravaggio. The other two churches, Santa Maria dei Miracoli and Santa Maria in Montesanto, are known as the „twin churches” due to their similar exteriors.

At the northern end of the square is the aforementioned Porta del Popolo, which was originally part of Rome’s city walls and renovated in the 16th century by Pope Sixtus V.

Castel Sant’Angelo

Located along the banks of the Tiber River, it can be approached via the Ponte Sant’Angelo bridge.

Originally built as a mausoleum for Emperor Hadrian and his family, the structure was transformed into a fortress in the Middle Ages and played a crucial role in the city’s defense. It later served as a prison and barracks.

The base is a square supporting the distinctive cylindrical structure containing four chambers. Atop the building stands the famous Angel statue.

Since 1933, it has operated as a museum. Visitors can explore the ancient spiral ramp, the imperial burial chambers, a collection of weapons, and an exhibit detailing the building’s history.

All information can be found here!

Trastevere

This neighborhood on the right bank of the Tiber River offers a true taste of Italian life.

While there aren’t many attractions, it’s worth visiting for the atmosphere alone. Strolling through its narrow streets filled with numerous restaurants and cafes is a delightful experience.

Isola Tiberina

The Tiber Island, located between Trastevere and the central part of the city, may be small but is worth walking across via the Ponte Fabricio and Cestio bridges.

It’s a great outing, especially when transitioning from the city center to the Trastevere neighborhood.

Theatre of Marcellus

This building is one of the earliest surviving examples of Roman stone theaters and even inspired the design of the later Colosseum.

It was completed in 13 BC during the reign of Emperor Augustus and named after his nephew Marcus Claudius Marcellus, who died young as an imperial heir.

It could accommodate about 15,000 spectators and was a major venue for Rome’s significant dramatic performances. Its features include a semi-circular, multi-tiered arena built from finely crafted travertine stone. Over the centuries, the theater significantly deteriorated and was repurposed during the medieval period into residential buildings and a fortress.

Piazza Navona

Perhaps the most beautiful square in Rome, Piazza Navona is always bustling, lined with spectacular buildings.

Originally built on the site of Domitian’s stadium, it was transformed in the 17th century into the Baroque masterpiece it remains today.

The most famous of its three exquisite fountains is the Fontana dei Quattro Fiumi, designed by Bernini in 1651, which features four giant statues representing the four major rivers of the world (Nile, Ganges, Danube, Rio de la Plata) topped with a grand obelisk.

The other two important fountains are the Fountain of Neptune (Fontana del Nettuno) and the Moor Fountain (Fontana del Moro), both elaborate Baroque creations.

Numerous historic buildings surround the square, among which the Church of Sant’Agnese in Agone stands out.

Column of Marcus Aurelius

Situated in Piazza Colonna, this column is one of Rome’s finest, notable for its intricate reliefs and rich historical depictions.

Erected around AD 180 in honor of Emperor Marcus Aurelius, it features a spiraling relief, similar to Trajan’s Column, depicting Marcus Aurelius’ military campaigns against the Germanic peoples and Sarmatians.

Originally, a statue of Marcus Aurelius topped the column, but it was lost over time. In the 16th century, Pope Sixtus V replaced it with a statue of Saint Paul.

Villa Borghese

Rome’s best-known park is a favorite relaxation spot for locals.

It features lakes, summer palaces, fountains, and a zoo, making it a perfect place for a stroll in pleasant surroundings. It is named after Scipione Borghese, a cardinal.

Baths of Caracalla

These are the ruins of one of the grandest and most significant Roman bath complexes, located not far from the Colosseum.

They were inaugurated in 216 AD during Emperor Caracalla’s reign and operated until 537 AD. At its peak, the facility was very popular, attracting an average of 8,000 people daily. More than just a place for bathing, it served as a cultural center where visitors could engage in sports, read in libraries, and participate in various leisure activities.

Thorough excavations in the last century have largely restored its former layout. The complex’s roof was made of intricate vaulted structures, which still impress today.

All information can be found here!

Lateran Basilica (Basilica di San Giovanni in Laterano)

Officially known as the Cathedral of Saint John Lateran, it is the oldest and highest-ranking among Rome’s four major papal basilicas, often called „the mother and head of all churches in the city”.

Built during the reign of Emperor Constantine in the 4th century, it has undergone multiple renovations and rebuildings over the centuries, particularly suffering significant damage from earthquakes and fires. Each reconstruction made it more ornate and monumental. It assumed its current form in 1735.

The basilica boasts a vast interior with five aisles, divided by impressive columns and arches. At the end of the central aisle is the apse, adorned with 13th-century mosaics.

Entrance is free!

Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore

This is the largest Roman Catholic church in Rome named after the Virgin Mary and one of the papal major basilicas outside the Vatican City.

The church and its surroundings are considered one of Rome’s most significant artistic and urban architectural complexes. Inside, the Renaissance coffered flat ceiling stands out, richly adorned with gilding.

Entrance is free!

Vatican City

The headquarters of the Catholic Church, where the Pope serves as the head of state. It is the smallest independent state in the world by area, completely surrounded by Rome. Its territory is enclosed by walls, except for the section facing St. Peter’s Square.

St. Peter’s Square and Basilica

The Basilica is perhaps the most famous church in the world.

At the center of the square stands an obelisk brought from Egypt by Emperor Nero. Several fountains can also be found within the square.

An interesting feature is the „optical view” of the square, which allows the basilica’s dome to prominently stand out from its surroundings.

Entry to the square is free, but there is a fee to enter the dome. You can ascend to the dome via stairs or a combination of elevator and stairs. All information can be found here!

Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel

The collection of the Roman Catholic Church includes Greek and Etruscan works as well. Two paths are designated for viewing, a shorter and a longer one.

At the end of the museums, visitors reach the Sistine Chapel, the site of the papal conclave. The ceiling features Michelangelo’s world-famous frescoes.

The museums are closed on Sundays, except for the last Sunday of each month when entry is free! Opening hours and days of closure can be viewed here.

More articles about Rome

Rome in a day and a half

Rome public transport: airports, ticket types, prices

A Rome attractions bejegyzés először Tips for journey-én jelent meg.