11 of the best views in Rome

Known as the City of Seven Hills, Rome has one of the best skylines in the world. Exploring Rome by foot is great, but seeing Rome from above will give you a brand new experience.

Whether you’re admiring Rome from one of its seven hills or drinking in the stunning views at a rooftop bar, there are plenty of places to check out for the most breathtaking views of the Eternal City.

If you visit St. Peter’s Basilica, make your way to the dome of the cathedral. This is where you can get a 360-degree view of Rome. To get up the dome, you’ll have to pay a small fee and climb hundreds of steps. There can be long lines for this view so we recommend arriving early in the morning to beat the crowd (and the heat). Or better yet, join a guided tour for fast-track access.

Located behind Trastevere and just south of the Vatican, the Gianicolo hill is one of the highest points in Rome. Terrazza del Gianicolo offers one of the most expansive views of Rome. For a lovely end to the day, take a short walk up the Gianicolo hill to catch the sun setting over St. Peter’s Basilica before heading down to one of the many restaurants and bars for dinner.

“One of the best views of Rome can be had here, on the Gianicolo. Also, enjoy the trees, the busts of Italian patriots, and the nearby statues of Garibaldi and his wife, Anita.”—@SpanishStepsApt

This terrace lies within the magnificent Villa Borghese, and right on its borders are the Piazza del Popolo and Spanish Steps. Spend a day in Villa Borghese and enjoy the many attractions, such as the famous Galleria Borghese. If you’re traveling with kids, opt for a tour that includes a ticket to the zoo; we guarantee the little ones will be thrilled. At sunset, head to the Pincio Terrace for one of the most spectacular views of Rome—for free.

The Aventine Hill is one of the Seven Hills of Rome and if you’re looking for something special, you’ll find it in the Giardino degli Aranci or Orange Garden. This picturesque garden lined with orange trees is a quiet oasis perfect for reading in the shade. Located on the high part of the Aventine Hill right above the Tiber River, it overlooks the Trastevere neighborhood. You can even see the dome of St Peter’s Basilica in the distance. The sunset here is breathtaking.

“Beautiful gardens, orange trees and a stunning view of Rome. Plenty of seating to just sit and be quiet, or hear the gentle music floating through the trees. A little tranquility in a busy city.”— Ruth M

Looking for a one-of-a-kind view of the city? We recommend the Castel Sant’ Angelo terrace. Before making your way up to the terrace, take a tour of this important museum that details the transformation of Rome over the last 2,000 years. End your tour at the rooftop, where the view will leave you speechless.

You can’t get a bad photo here—the sweeping views of the city from unique angles make this a hotspot among photographers.

The Altar of the Fatherland is a grand and imposing monument that’s hard to miss. However, not many people would make their way up to the top—and that’s a shame. Standing in the center of ancient Rome and connected to the more modern section through the streets that run from Piazza Venezia, the monument offers views of both modern and ancient Rome. The climb to the fifth floor is free, but we recommend that you take the glass elevator all the way to the top for a captivating bird’s eye view of Rome.

If you’ve ever wondered where the pictures of Rome on postcards are from, head to Ponte Umberto and you’ll find the answer right before your eyes. The views of St. Peter’s Basilica and Sant’ Angelo Bridge from Ponte Umberto are probably the most photographed in Rome. To see nice reflections of the buildings on the river, visit in the morning or after sunset. It’s accessible any time of the day and is free. Do watch out for traffic when you’re on the bridge.

“This bridge will provide you with a picture-perfect shot of the Vatican and the St. Angelo Bridge. It is not a long span and easy to walk. It is also a very short distance to Piazza Navona.”—@CK2000

Santa Severa is a sweeping stretch of coastline just 10 minutes’ walk from the Santa Severa train station. When you arrive at the beach, you’ll see the imposing 14th-century Castello di Santa Severa. Fun fact: north of the castle, the sand is brown; south of the castle, it’s black. Whether you’re looking for a day to get away from the city or to immerse yourself in some history, the majestic castle right on the seafront will add a scenic backdrop to your day.

If you’re looking for a different view of Rome, head to the Church of Santa Maria del Priorato and peep through the keyhole of the unassuming door. You’ll be greeted with a view of three countries: Malta, Italy, and the Vatican City—the view of St Peter’s Basilica is perfectly framed by the trees. Many have tried to capture the view on camera, but just being there is magical enough. While this may seem like a hidden spot, it does get busy, so go earlier in the day to avoid the crowds.

Located at the heart of the historic center, Eitch Borromini is a charming hotel with an unmissable rooftop bar, the La Grande Bellaza. Here, you’ll get a 360 degree panoramic view of the city from the top of the historic Palazzo Pamphilj. At your feet, you’ll find Piazza Navona, the most spectacular square in the world. The skyline comprises the majestic dome of St. Peter, the Castel Sant’Angelo and some of the most stunning churches in Rome. For an unparalleled experience, grab a ticket to the Rooftop Bar Opera Show.

“Really golden magic of a city which has a soul and you can feel it...a breathtaking experience over Roman rooftops.”—@clotclotclot

Known as the hotel where Julia Roberts stayed while filming Eat, Pray, Love, Hotel Raphael has a gorgeous rooftop bar that will make you feel like you’re on a Roman movie set. This classy hotel is tucked a few steps from Piazza Navona, and located amidst many historical buildings. Visit this bar in the evenings when the sky is bathed in orange and pink—it’s a sight to behold.

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