The city of Rome is truly an Eternal City as it is much occupied with many historical monuments and restored ruins. It is so filled that you will find it difficult to choose what attractions in Rome you would like to see if your visit is short. So as you explore this beautiful city, there are some attractions that are obligatory and you must not miss visiting and viewing them.

1.    Colosseum and the Arch of Constantine:

This is the largest structure that is left from distant past of Rome and it offers us insight to the architectural skills and culture of people from ancient Rome. This place has served as a huge entertainment arena which was first begun by Vespasian in AD 72. The inauguration was held in AD 80 and from there begin a series of games. In AD 82, the first fight between men and beasts was arranged as a tradition here. The arena has a huge forum where around 50,000 public gathered. The structure here clearly formed a base/model for many sports arenas and it had enough space for festivals, circuses and theatrical performances along with games. Just outside the Colosseum is the Arch of Constantine which is a site where you should grab a picture opportunity. This site was built to honor emperor for his victory in the Milvian Bridge battle in 312.

2.    Roman Forum:

Next in our list is the Roman Forum which in ancient times was the center of city life. It hosted numerous festivals, rituals, celebrations as well as funerals. It was a grassy land which was empty and only until the 7th century B.C., the city begins to grew around this land. During the 8th century, the area fell to waste and till the beginning of 20th century, it remained as it was. You can have a self-guided tour of the structures using a map or can join a tour to learn more about this area. The Palatine Hill here would give beautifully widespread views of the city.

3.    Pantheon:

One of the most remarkable monuments of Augustan Rome, the Pantheon still remains intact. It was originally built back in 27 BC but a fire damage occurred and later it was reconstructed in 2nd century AD. Later a platform was also added for Christian worship here. After the Renaissance, it served for designated tombs for some elite artists of Italy such as the painter Raphael and some former kings. The Pantheon has an inspiring architecture with its tall columns, expanded interior and amazing dome. In the center of the rotunda is a 27-foot hole through which sunlight shines.

4.    Vatican City:

The Vatican City is an independent state although it is located inside the Rome but it has its own stamps, coins and flag. The state has its own militia, the Swiss Guard who work for the protection of the area along with the Pope and its citizens and visitors. Be sure to dress appropriately if you wish to enter the beautiful St. Peter’s Square Basilica. Here you can see the amazing Michelangelo's Pietá sad sculpture. Views of the square and city are stunning from the roof. This place is also home to the Vatican Museums that houses some the masterpieces of Italian artists along with Sistine Chapel’s ceiling painted by Michelangelo.

5.    Piazza Navona:

Lined with restaurants and open-air cafes, Piazza Navona rates high among Rome tourist attractions and is one of the most charming squares of Rome. This was once the place where sporting events were arranged at the Domitian Stadium in 89 AD. This square has 3 fountains. The most interesting one is the Bernini’s Fountain of the Four Rivers which houses 4 statues. Each statue here represents rivers from different continents.

6.    Trevi Fountain:

Another highlighted Rome attractions is the marvelous Trevi Fountain. Here tourists and locals find a good list of wishes for which they throw coins. The charitable donation accounts to around $3,500 each day and this money serves the purpose of supporting food programs for poor people in the city. Take some time to explore this masterpiece where god Neptune is shown riding in a shell-shaped chariot led by seahorses.

7.    Spanish Steps:

These are the widest and longest staircase of European region but apart from that it is the best spot for tourists. It is a place where they can sit and enjoy a gelato during summers. In winters, you can get cones of hot roasted chestnuts. It features a boat-shaped fountain known as the Barcaccia formed by Pietro Bernini located at the foot of the steps. The Trinità dei Monti church is at the top of the steps that preserve some of the Gothic arches from 1502 and it is home to an Entombment (by Daniele da Volterra). Best spot to sit and enjoy watching the city is between these two points in the middle of the staircase. Close to this location are some of the high-end designer shops, restaurants and cafes.

8.    Galleria Borghese:

Galleria Borghese is truly beautiful inside and outside. It is castled in a prime location at Villa Borghese. It is surrounded by sprawling gardens and the music has some impressive collection by famous artists of the time including Raphael, Rubens and Correggio. The Main attraction is the Bernini sculptures. This museum witness 360 visitors in every 2 hours and getting tickets would really be challenging so make sure you prepare for it in advance by making reservations.

9.    Castel Sant’Angelo:

This fortress was originally designed by Emperor Hadrian and it was built to serve as a mausoleum for his own family. Located on the Tiber River rested above the glorious views, it is the best place to rest for royalty. Although, its original purpose was then moved and in 401 it served as a military fortress. Then it worked for a papal residence and a prison too. Now it is a museum, where locals and tourists can tour the apartments and view the Archangel Michael statue.

10.    Palatine Hill:

Palatine Hill truly depicts the settlement from ancient Rome. It is strategically laid 50 meters above the Tiber. It features cutting of rocks in front of Temple of Cybele that represents the presence of humans in around 9th-century BC. Emperors and aristocratic families chose this site for their palaces. It is also home to the Farnese Gardens which was laid for Cardinal Alessandro Farnese in the16th century on the hill. It served as a park for pleasure with terraces, lawns, trees, flowerbeds and fountains laid all around. Highlights here are the House of Livia, Domus Augustana, and the Baths of Septimius Severus. It is one of the best places to explore.