The 55 Most Instagrammable Places in Rome to Visit
These selected Instagrammable places in Rome to visit, will help you create your amazing itinerary in one of the most beautiful city in the world.
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 is probably unnecessary, as you will be in awe just by walking in Rome historical Center. And yet here they are – the 55 most Instagrammable places in Rome!
The most instagrammable places in Rome: landmarks & tourist sites
1. Altare Della Patria
Also known as Victor Emmanuel II Monument or Vittoriano, Altare della Patria (Altar of the Fatherland) 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 Verità
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 staircase
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, is it any 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 and more popularly known 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 things, 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 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 in 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 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.
18. Pantheon
One of Rome’s most popular tourist sites, the Pantheon is an ancient temple-turned-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 visited squares in all of 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 makes for a gorgeous photo.
26. Ponte Umberto I
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 get there early to avoid tourists and achieve optimal lighting.
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 piazze in all the world.
The square itself and the iconic green-domed basilica are named after St. Peter, considered by Catholics world-wide 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 and contains temples, museums, gardens, and art collections.
34. Villa Farnesina
Considered to be one of the most magnificent examples of the Italian Renaissance, Villa Farnesina is located 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 rights 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 Instagrammers 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 run you € 295 per night for their most modest 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 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
That slightly-crooked staircase is perfect for some unique photos (or, better yet, some interesting yoga photos!)
47. Via dei Coronari
This place looks like it came right off a postcard, it’s so picture-perfect. Enjoy an apertivo at Cucina while you take in the views.
48. Via dell’ Arco di San Calisto
With the hanging ivy and tables lining this narrow, cobblestone street, it’s no wonder this is a popular street for photographers.
I always like to sit down and have a bite to eat if I am taking photos with restaurant backdrops, as to not be rude.
49. Via della concilliazione
One of the streets leading up to St. Peter’s Square, if you get there during the right moments, it can be a photographer’s dream.
49. Via Della Lungaretta
Trastevere is full of Instagrammable streets, and this is no exception. Bonus points if you can get a photo with an old Vespa in it!
50. Via Giulia
Anywhere with arches is a good choice – oh, and fountains!
51. Via Margutta
Another gem in Trastevere!
52. Vicolo del Piede
This street is perfect if you’re going for that slightly dilapidated (yet still chic) vibe in your photos.
53. Vicolo della Toretta
A Bottega! This street is full of Instagrammable options – also in Trastevere.
For further reading
► How to move around Rome
► What to see in Rome: 19 sites that you cannot miss