Rome Old Town (Centro Storico)

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Rome’s old town, Italian Centro Storico, the historic center, is full of history, art and culture. Below is a travel guide to help you make the most of your visit.

The most important sights in the old town of Rome that you should definitely see:

1. Piazza Navona:

Sant’Agnese in Agone: A beautiful church on the west side of the square.
Four Rivers Fountain: Bernini’s masterpiece in the middle of the square.
Pamphili Palace: Tour the elegant Pamphili family home, now an art museum.

2. Pantheon:

Pantheon: An ancient engineering marvel with its iconic dome.
Piazza della Rotonda: Enjoy a coffee in the piazza overlooking the Pantheon.

3. Trevi Fountain and surroundings:

Trevi Fountain: Make a wish and toss a coin into this Baroque masterpiece.
Palazzo Barberini: Admire the nearby palace and its art collection.

4. Spanish Steps and Plaza de España:

Spanish Steps: A popular meeting place with the beautiful Barcaccia Fountain.
Trinità dei Monti: Visit the church at the top of the Spanish Steps and enjoy the panoramic views.
Keats-Shelley House: A museum dedicated to Romantic poets.

5. Roman Forum:

Roman Forum: Walk through the center of political and social life in ancient Rome.
Palatine Hill: Explore the birthplace of the city

6. Colosseum:

Colosseum: A symbol of Rome and the ancient Roman Empire.
Arch of Constantine: A triumphal arch near the Colosseum.

7. Capitol:

Capitoline Museums: Discover ancient art and artifacts in a piazza designed by Michelangelo.
Santa Maria of Aracoeli: Visit the church on the hill.

8. Jewish Ghetto:

Great Synagogue: A stunning example of Jewish architecture.
Ponte Fabricio: The oldest Roman bridge still in use, connecting the old town with the Tiber Island.

9. Campo de’ Fiori:

Campo de’ Fiori Market: A busy market place during the day.
Statue of Giordano Bruno: dominates the center of the square.

Practical tips Rome Old Town (Centro Storico)

Tour:

Take a guided walking tour to gain in-depth knowledge from local experts.

Museum and Attractions Pass:

Consider the Roma Pass, which gives you free entry to some museums and discounted entry to others.

Food and Drink:

Sample traditional Roman cuisine and ice cream at a local trattoria. In the old town the prices are slightly higher. Beware of rip-offs.

Time of day of the visit:

To avoid crowds, visit popular attractions early in the morning or late afternoon.

Getting Around:

The historic center is best explored on foot, but for longer journeys Rome’s public transport system is efficient. The sights in Rome’s old town are usually only a few hundred meters apart. Some attractions, such as the Vatican, are just outside the Centro Storico.

We hope you have a great time at Centro Storico!

Our tip: Buy tickets for Rome online in advance

For some years now, there have been several large providers of tickets, entrance tickets, tours, etc. for your holiday You can buy entrance tickets for sights online in advance and save yourself queuing at the ticket office. You can also book bus tours, attractions, excursions and much more on the internet. We have picked out two good and reputable providers for you:

1. Getyourguide: Click here for Rome tickets

2. Tiqets: Click here for Rome tickets

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