The 55 Most Instagrammable Places in Rome to Visit

These selected Instagrammable places in Rome are ideal for crafting a fantastic itinerary in one of the world’s most beautiful cities.

Whether you are visiting Rome for the first time or you are a frequent traveler to the Eternal City, this list will help you make sure you don’t miss out on the top sights in Rome.

With so many hidden gems and underrated views, this list may be unnecessary, as you will be in awe just by walking through Rome’s historic center. And yet here they are – the 55 most Instagrammable places in Rome!

PIN IT FOR LATER

The most instagrammable places in Rome: landmarks & tourist sites

1. Altare Della Patria

Also known as the Victor Emmanuel II Monument or the Altare della Patria (Altar of the Fatherland), it is the commanding building in Piazza Venezia that was initially built to pay homage to the first king of unified Italy, Victor Emmanuel II.

The monument also houses the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, representative of all Italian soldiers who gave their lives during the wars.

2. Arco di Constantino

The Arch of Constantine was constructed between 312 and 315 AD. The Senate commissioned it to commemorate 10 years of Constantine’s reign. It’s located on the ancient route of triumphs, Via Triumphalis, which is the way emperors would reenter the city after victory.

3. Aventine Keyhole

A lesser-known attraction in Rome is the Aventine Keyhole. It is found in the gardens of the Villa del Priorato di Malta on Aventine Hill.

The property itself belongs to the Priory of the Knights of Malta, a Roman Catholic crusader order.

Despite holding no territory, the Priory of the Knights of Malta is sovereign under International law and maintains diplomatic relations with many countries.

Be sure to plan your visit by appointment and expect to wait in line to get this iconic shot of the green dome of St. Peter’s Basilica as seen through the keyhole.

4. Bocca della Verita

Dare to tell a lie with your hand inside the Bocca della Verità, one of Rome’s most popular tourist stops. While it’s best known as an ancient lie detector from its cameo in Roman Holiday, this large marble disc was probably once a mere drain cover. The face is the depiction of the Titan sea god, Oceanus.

5. Bramante staircases

Did you know there are two Bramante Staircases? The modern version (pictured) was built in 1932 and is a replica of its original, which was built in 1505.

The double helix design was to allow pack animals and carriages to ascend and descend without interruption.

The Pope would go up the staircase while still in his carriage, as his papal vestments would be too heavy for him to walk.

Both staircases are in the Pio-Clementine Museum in Vatican City, though the modern one is more commonly visited.

You need special access to visit the original. As you can see from the photos, it makes for an epic Instagrammable place in Rome. You can do wonders with editing and color saturation to create the desired effect.

6. Campo de Fiori

Campo de’ Fiori is the home to a daily food and flower market that at night becomes a gathering place for young people and tourists. If you’re looking for vibrant-colored Roman veggies or flowers to brighten up your IG, this is the place.

7. Castel (& Ponte) Sant’Angelo

In my opinion, this is the most beautiful place to take Instagrammable photos while in Rome. More experienced photographers can play with the reflection of the bridge and castle on the Tiber, while amateurs need only to point and shoot for an epic shot.

The cylindrical building was initially commissioned as a mausoleum for Emperor Hadrian. It has since been used as a castle, fortress, and prison, and is now a museum.

With dreamy views like this, it’s no wonder that Rome is one of the best honeymoon destinations in Europe.

8. Chiesa della trinità dei monti

This church is lesser-known by name but more popularly referred to as the ‘church above the Spanish Steps.’ It’s a popular backdrop for many photoshoots in Rome.

9. Colosseum (exterior)

Similar to Castel Sant’Angelo, the Colosseum is one of the most iconic structures of Rome and one of the most Instagrammable places in the city. The trick is to time your photo shoot to capture minimal tourists. Visiting in the off-season and in the early morning hours will give you the best odds.

10. Colosseum (interior)

My bad, I didn’t go inside the Colosseum, but I will next time I go, I promise. Crowds and queues aren’t my thing, generally, but sometimes the view is worth the hassle.

11. Fontana dell’acqua paola

Found on Gianicolo, Fontana dell’Acqua Paola served as the inspiration for the much-more-famous Trevi Fountain.

It served as the end of the Acqua Paola aqueduct and a clean-water source for residents of Gianicolo.

There are more than 2,000 fountains in Rome, of varying sizes – one of many interesting facts about Rome!

If you want to capture a gorgeous, monumental Roman fountain with fewer tourists, you’ll have better luck here than at the Trevi.

12. Galleria Alberto Sordi

Not all of the most Instagrammable places in Rome are ancient. In fact, some of the city’s most beautiful structures are quite modern. Galleria Alberto Sordi, a shopping arcade, is a beautiful example of Art Nouveau design in Rome.

13. Galleria Doria Pamphili

The Galleria Doria Pamphilj is a large art collection housed in a breathtaking Baroque palace. It is the largest privately owned art collection in Rome and makes for some stunning photos.

14. Galleria Sciarra

Housed in an unassuming building a stone’s throw away from the Trevi Fountain is the Galleria Sciarra. This place is simply a home to offices, but the interior courtyard is open to the public.

The ceiling is a design of glass and iron, while the walls are adorned with frescoes depicting feminine virtues, paying homage to women.

15. Gianicolo hill

The second-tallest hill in Rome, Gianicolo, is where you can find some of the most sweeping views of the Eternal City. Fun fact: Gianicolo is technically outside the city limits of Ancient Rome, and is not included in Rome’s Seven Hills.

I spent a lot of time here during my studies at the American University of Rome, yet I never get tired of seeing Rome from above, with its many domes and bell towers.

15. Largo di torre argentina

This large square in Rome is home to the remains of four Roman Republican Temples (A, B, C, & D). Temple D has gained popularity among cat lovers, as it is home to a cat sanctuary.

The sanctuary provides sterilization and adoption programs to its more than 350 feline residents.

16. Orange Garden

Situated atop Aventine Hill, the Orange Garden is a park that spans just under 8,000 square meters. Its official name is Parco Savello, which is how it is designated on maps. Come here for an iconic orange-hued Roman sunset or an escape from the bustling city streets below.

17. Palazzo Spada

Palazzo Spada is home to a small art collection, but its real treasure is Borromini’s Perspective Corridor. Looking down this architectural masterpiece, it seems as though the corridor is 30-or-so meters long, when in fact, it is under 9 meters in length.

Borromini had been commissioned to make the space appear larger. Using a sloped floor and shorter columns toward the statue of Mars at the end, Borromini created an incredible optical illusion. Seriously, you’ll stare down the corridor for quite a while trying to figure it out. And the statue of Mars? It’s under 80 cm tall.

PIN IT FOR LATER

18. Pantheon

One of Rome’s most popular tourist attractions, the Pantheon is an ancient temple converted into a church. With its Corinthian columns and near-perfect preservation, it’s one of the most Instagrammable places in Rome. Try getting a photo that includes the Fontana del Pantheon for a splash of color.

19. Piazza del Popolo

Also known as People’s Square, Piazza del Popolo is a popular site for photographers in Rome. Home to one of Rome’s quintessential obelisks, the square showcases some beautiful examples of Roman fountains and architecture. This is where the city’s executions took place up until the 1800s.

20. Piazza della Rotonda

On the south side of Piazza della Rotonda is where you will find the Pantheon. The magnificent fountain and obelisk in the center of the square make this one of the most Instagrammable places in Rome!

21. Piazza del Campidoglio

Piazza del Campidoglio is situated upon Capitoline Hill, the most important of Rome’s Seven Hills. It’s the first modern square to be built within the city limits of ancient Rome.

22. Piazza di Pietra

Also known as Stone Square, its name is derived from the remains of the ancient Hadrianeum, whose columns are pictured above. Today, the square serves as a gathering place in the evening, with cafés and gorgeous illumination of the ancient temple.

23. Piazza di Spagna

Best known for its location at the base of the Spanish Steps, Piazza di Spagna is one of the most popular squares in Rome.

That being said, if you’re hoping to snap the perfect photo for your Instagram, it’s best to arrive in the early morning, just as the sun is rising in order to minimize the presence of tourists.

24. Piazza Navona

Another piazza? Yes, another. Piazza Navona is among Rome’s most beautiful and undoubtedly one of the most Instagrammable places in the city. The square is best known for its sculptural creations, including many exquisite fountains.

25. Ponte Milvio

The Milvian Bridge is in the northern part of the city. It holds historical significance as the site of the Battle of Ponte Milvio, which led to the imperial rule of Constantine. With the right light, the view of the bridge from down the Tiber and its reflection on the river make for a gorgeous photo.

26. Ponte Umberto

There’s not a whole heap of history at Ponte Umberto I (relative to some other places on this list), but how perfect is that view!? Face toward the Vatican and get St. Peter’s Basilica as a backdrop.

27. Roman Forum

Aside from the Colosseum, you’re hard-pressed to find any place more quintessentially ancient Roman than the Forum. Here, you’ll find the ruins of many ancient Roman political buildings, where matters of state were discussed and the future of the modern world was decided.

28. Spanish Steps

One of Rome’s most iconic and Instagrammable tourist sites, the Spanish Steps are on everyone’s radar. Be sure to arrive early to avoid crowds and achieve optimal lighting conditions.

29. St. Peter’s Square

Located within the confines of Vatican City (which is not part of Italy – did you know?), You’ll find one of the most famous piazzas in the world.

The square itself and the iconic green-domed basilica are named after St. Peter, considered by Catholics worldwide to have been the first Pope.

If you’re hoping to avoid the crowds, avoid coming to St. Peter’s Square on Wednesdays and Sundays, when the Pope addresses the public. If you’re into religion, those are the best days to go.

For a unique and unforgettable experience to have in Italy, you can have breakfast at the Vatican and a private tour!

30. Teatro di Marcello

The largest and most important open-air theater of ancient Rome, Teatro di Marcello could hold 11,000-20,000 spectators. It’s one of the most beautifully preserved and Instagrammable places in Rome!

31. Terrazza del Pincio

If sweeping views are what you’re after, Terrazza del Pincio will not disappoint. This 19th-century terrace has a beautiful fountain and offers breathtaking views of Piazza del Popolo and St. Peter’s Basilica.

32. Trevi fountain

Definitely making the top three most-visited tourist sites in Rome, Fontana di Trevi is the largest Baroque fountain in the city and among the most famous in the entire world. The fountain dates back to *gasp* 19BC and has undergone several restoration/renovation efforts.

As with other overly crowded places that make this list, your best bet is to arrive for sunrise. Or, do as the Romans do, and skip the Trevi, have a bevi!

33. Villa Borghese

The Villa Borghese is a landscaped garden in Rome that dates back to the early 1600’s. It’s the third-largest public park in the city, containing temples, museums, gardens, and art collections.

34. Villa Farnesina

Considered one of the most magnificent examples of the Italian Renaissance, Villa Farnesina is situated in Trastevere. There are guided tours available. Special hours can be found here.

Most instagrammable places in Rome: restaurants & hotels

Not all of the most Instagrammable places in Rome are tourist sites – some are simply restaurants or accommodations. If you’re willing to shell out the cash, that is – these hotels I’ve listed below will cost you!

35. Baglioni hotel regina

This splendid building was built in 1892 and is a shining example of Italian art deco. You’ll find an abundance of marble, brass, bronze, and velvet.

And the terrace is to-die-for, with sweeping views of Rome. Animals up to 15kg are permitted to stay as well, so you don’t need to leave your furry friends at home. Rooms here start at € 270 per night.

👉 Book your stay on Expedia

36. Eitch Borromini

Eitch Borromini is actually a hotel, so staying here is also an option. However, the real highlight of this place is its rooftop bar. Rooms here start at € 100 per night.

👉 Check rates and availability on Expedia

37. Holy Deer San Lorenzo City Lodge

Located directly on Piazza Navona, the Holy Deer San Lorenzo City Lodge is a gorgeous hotel option, and, I’ll admit, it has an air of mystery to it. In my research, I’m unable to find pricing for their rooms – you have to submit a special inquiry on their website.

38. Hotel de Russie

The garden terrace at Hotel de Russie is absolutely charming, but it is reserved for hotel guests – a room here will run you from € 496 per night and up!

👉 Check rates and availability on Expedia

39. Hotel Palazzo Manfredi

Starting at € 380 per night, a stay at Hotel Palazzo Manfredi will earn you the right to dine at their Michelin-starred rooftop restaurant, Aroma. Though you don’t need to be a hotel guest to enjoy the five-star cuisine (reservations required). Check out that view of the Colosseum!

👉 Check rates and availability on Expedia

40. Love bar natural food

This place is an Instagrammer’s dream! Cozy, bright, and fun! Love Bar is located in the Ponte Milvio neighborhood. They serve vegan-friendly dishes as well!

41. Madre

A great spot to grab a bite to eat and take a few IG-worthy photos!

42. Palazzo Dama

If you’re looking for tropical vibes amid the city noise, Palazzo Dama is a great option! Redefining luxury, Hotel Palazzo Dama’s pool gives off almost Bali-like vibes with its tropical breakfasts. A room here will cost you €295 per night for their most basic option.

👉 Check rates and availability on Expedia

43. Residenza Ruspoli Bonaparte

Situated in a 16th-century palace, Residenza Ruspoli Bonaparte is a step above the rest in terms of luxury. This is actually the place where the young Emperor Bonaparte resided with his mother! I think that in itself is worth a visit. Rooms here start at € 315 per night.

👉 Check rates and availability on Expedia

44. Rooftop American bar by Otivm hotel

With views of Altare della Patria, the rooftop bar at Otivm Hotel is definitely one of the most Instagrammable places in Rome. And check out how cute those drinks are! You can enjoy the bar without being a hotel guest, but in case you want to make a night out of it, a room here starts at € 75 per night.

👉 Check rates and availability on Expedia

45. Westin Excelsior

I think that the hot tub room alone is well worth the (relatively) modest cost of € 180 per night! Discounts are given to members, so looking into memberships to the Marriott Hotel Group may be worthwhile!

👉 Check rates and availability on Expedia

Most instagrammable places in Rome: streets

No matter where I went while living in Rome, every street seemed to present a picture-perfect moment. Here are some of the most famous streets in Rome, and very much “instagrammable”.

46. Via de Ciancaleoni

Tucked away in Rome’s Monti district, Via de’ Ciancaleoni is a quiet, cobbled alley with a slightly hidden feel. It winds gently past old buildings and ivy-covered balconies, leading toward the small church of San Lorenzo in Fonte. The street feels like stepping into a secret part of the city.

Why it’s great for Instagram:

• Stone staircases and aged walls create texture-rich frames
• It’s peaceful and off the radar—perfect for moody, timeless shots
• That soft, golden light hits beautifully in late afternoon

📸 Tip: Try a low-angle shot that includes the stairs and archways for a layered, dramatic look.

47. Via dei Coronari

This elegant street in the historic center is one of Rome’s most beautiful Renaissance lanes. Known for its antique shops, pastel-colored buildings, and carved doorways, Via dei Coronari has a romantic, almost cinematic quality. It’s long, straight, and made for wandering. Don’t forget to stop for an aperitivo.

Why it’s great for Instagram:

• Long perspective lines with rich architectural detail
• Gorgeous doorways, hidden shrines, and warm-toned facades
• Ideal for lifestyle shots, portraits, or dreamy street scenes

📸 Tip: Mid-morning is best to catch the light filtering between the buildings without too many people around.

48. Via dell’ Arco di San Calisto

Tucked in the heart of Trastevere, Via dell’Arco di San Calisto is a cozy, cobblestone lane bursting with local charm. It’s named after the ancient Arco di San Calisto — a slight, ivy-draped arch nestled in the old neighborhood. You’ll spot delightful-painted building facades, scattered church icons, and little trattorias spilling their seating into the street.

Why it’s great for Instagram:

• Quaint & intimate vibe: the arch framed by warm-toned walls gives off that off-the-beaten-path aesthetic.
• Local character: colorful doorways, hanging lanterns, and quiet wall murals make for authentic street photography.
• Soft, atmospheric light: best captured in the morning or late afternoon when shadows play across the cobbles.

📸 Tip: Frame the arch as your main subject, then step back slightly to include peek-throughs of café life and textured walls around it.

49. Via della concilliazione

This grand avenue, built between 1936 and 1950, creates a dramatic ceremonial route from Castel Sant’Angelo straight to St. Peter’s Basilica. It’s lined with historic palazzi and those distinctive stone obelisk street lamps—and it was cleverly designed to frame and reveal the dome of St. Peter’s in one stunning perspective.

Why it’s perfect for Instagram:

• Epic symmetry & perspective: the straight view ends with an awe-inspiring shot of the basilica.
• Monumental drama: wide boulevard, classy lighting, and that cinematic feel.
• Golden hour dream: those obelisks and facade tones glow beautifully at sunrise or sunset.

📸 Tip: Position yourself centrally, back up to capture the full length with the dome, and time it during golden hour for that soft, warm haze.

49. Via Della Lungaretta

Right in the heart of Trastevere, Via della Lungaretta is a narrow, cobbled street full of life and old-world charm. With its colorful facades, leafy balconies, and café tables spilling onto the street, it perfectly captures that laid-back Roman vibe. You’ll find medieval corners, local boutiques, and the occasional street musician adding to the atmosphere.

Why it’s great for Instagram:

• Classic Trastevere look with vines, cobblestones, and pastel walls
• Lively street scenes are perfect for candid, everyday moments
• Beautiful natural light in the early morning or late afternoon

📸 Tip: Don’t miss the medieval corner at Vicolo della Luce — it’s like stepping back in time.

50. Via Giulia

Via Giulia is one of Rome’s oldest and most elegant streets, laid out in the 16th century to showcase the city’s new Renaissance flair. It’s long, straight, and lined with grand palaces, quiet churches, fountains, and archways dripping with greenery. It’s the kind of place where you expect to see a Vespa roll by or a local carrying fresh flowers home.

Despite being in the center of Rome, it somehow feels calm and timeless. Every few steps, there’s another doorway, balcony, or old stone wall just begging to be photographed.

Why it’s great for Instagram:

• Arched vines and cobblestones = instant mood.
• The Arco Farnese is a dream backdrop.
• Elegant, romantic, and never too crowded.

Photo tip: Midday light hits the arches beautifully, making the ivy pop. Great for solo shots or wide-angle frames that capture the whole scene.

51. Via Margutta

Tucked behind the Spanish Steps, Via Margutta is one of Rome’s most charming hidden corners. Once home to stables and workshops, it turned into an artist’s haven over the centuries. Painters, sculptors, and filmmakers have all called this quiet, cobbled street home — and you can feel that creative energy in the air.

Today, it’s lined with ivy-covered walls, art galleries, tiny cafes, and antique shops. There’s even a little fountain with paintbrushes carved into it — a nod to the street’s bohemian past.

Why it’s great for Instagram:

• That ivy-draped charm looks good in any light.
• Quiet vibe = no crowds in your shots.
• Film lovers will recognize it from Roman Holiday (yes, Audrey Hepburn stayed here on screen!).

Photo tip: For soft, golden light and empty streets, consider coming early in the morning or late in the day.

52. Vicolo del Piede

This street is perfect if you’re going for that slightly dilapidated (yet still chic) vibe in your photos. This tiny, tucked-away lane near the Pantheon feels like a snapshot from centuries past. Its narrow cobblestones, low-hanging balconies, and old stone arches create an intimate, vintage frame for any shot.

Why it’s great for Instagram:

• Super-charming and rarely crowded—your photo stands out
• Weathered textures and subtle tones make for a moody, authentic vibe
• Compact layout means it’s perfect for portrait or close-up detail shots

📸 Tip: Get up close on the cobbles and low, then tilt your camera up to include the arch for a dramatic, layered frame.

53. Vicolo della Toretta

A quiet backstreet in the Prati area, this hidden lane is full of understated elegance. Lined with tall, creamy-toned buildings and wrought-iron balconies, it has a stately but cozy feel. You might even spot a classic Vespa parked around the corner.

Why it’s great for Instagram:

• Refined architecture without the crowds of major tourist spots
• Soft light reflecting off pale walls makes for gentle, glowing shots
• Clean lines and repeating verticals give a timeless, minimal aesthetic

📸 Tip: Mid-afternoon brings a soft, ambient glow—perfect for sharing space with a parked Vespa or a lone traveler walking through.