Rome is one of the most culturally and historically significant cities in the world, and you can enjoy different perspectives on the legendary city with its magnificent viewpoints. What better way to experience those different views than to take a guided tour of the heart of Rome?
From sprawling ancient landmarks that give you a glimpse of Rome in ages past to glorious squares adorned with palaces and fountains, Rome has it all. Whether you want to take pictures of the stunning fountain squares or explore the historic sites, our Views of Rome tour will take your trip to another level.
Our expert guide will take you along the east bank of the Tiber River to explore some of the most impressive vantage points the city has to offer. You will ascend to the top of Aventine Hill and glimpse through the keyhole at St. Peter’s Basilica, marvel at the epic monument of Emmanuel II, and climb two different sets of stairs to see what hidden gems are waiting at the top.
These are just a taster of what you can expect from this history of Rome tour, and our certified local guide will make sure that you explore the historic center of Rome to its fullest extent with a steady walk.
Highlights of Views of Rome Tour
This is perhaps the most unique walking tour in the heart of Rome, and although you won’t see the Trevi Fountain or Vatican museums, you get to admire some of the most intriguing views in the historic center. During this Rome history tour, you will:
- Learn about the history of Piazza Venezia and explore the Altare della Patria.
- Climb the neighboring Aracoeli Staircase to visit Santa Maria in Aracoeli.
- Admire the Piazza del Campidoglio, one of Michelangelo’s masterpieces.
- Walk past the Foro Romano and visit Santa Francesca Romana.
- Marvel at the remains of the ancient Circo Massimo, once Rome’s grand chariot racing stadium.
- Ascend the Aventine Hill for stunning views of Rome’s west bank and Tiber Island.
- Peak through the keyhole of the Bucco della Serratura offering a unique viewpoint of St. Peter’s Basilica.
- Visit Santa Sabina with its historic wooden doors and well-preserved architecture.
- Relax at the Giardino degli Aranci park with the final breathtaking view of the tour.
This walking tour gives you the chance to discover sites off the beaten path and away from the crowds. However, at the same time, you still get to see some of the most renowned places in Rome like the Colosseum, so it gives you a little bit of everything!
Il Vittoriano
One of the largest monuments in Rome, the Monumento a Vittorio Emanuele II pays homage to Victor Emmanuel II who was the first King of unified Italy. In addition to its historical significance, it has an impressive view of the wealth and majesty of the city. Our Rome city center tour takes you up the grand stairs of this monument so you can see the Piazza Venezia and beyond. You will also have the chance to learn about the details of the front facade, colonnades, and the various statues that adorn Il Vittoriano.
Santa Maria in Aracoeli
Although many miss this site, focusing on the grandiosity of the Trevi Fountain or Sistine Chapel, this church makes it up with its rich history and fantastic views of the heart of Rome. At the top of the stairs leading up to the church, you’ll get a scenic view of the western part of the city and several of its iconic landmarks. Your tour guide will also show you the interior of the landmark, including the ornate gold decorations on the ceiling and the famous fresco of Madonna and the Child, painted by Cavallini.
Piazza del Campidoglio
Piazza del Campidoglio is also reached by a series of ornate stairs, and once at the top, you get to see Michelangelo’s incredible design of the piazza and the surrounding museums and palaces. The floor has an intricate spiral pattern and is surrounded by three important structures — Palazzo Senatorio, Palazzo dei Conservatori, and Palazzo Nuovo. Each one has its own history, and our local tour guide will gladly explain it to you.
Via degli Fori Imperiali
The Via degli Fori Imperiali is one of the most impressive roads in the heart of Rome. At one end, you can see the mighty Colosseum and the ruins of ancient Rome, while at the other end, there is the more modern Piazza Venezia. It is a fantastic contrast that shows the different eras of the Eternal City perfectly. As part of your tour, you will traverse this road and get to see the ancient site of the Roman Forum as your guide explains its features such as the Basilica Emilia, Colonna di Foca, and Curia Lulia.
Santa Sabina
You will also go up the Aventine Hill to Santa Sabina. Possibly the most striking feature of this church is its wooden doors with intricate panels that depict scenes from the Old and New Testament, including the first known public image of the crucifixion. Next to the church, the park of Giardino degli Aranci has an amazing view of the city.
Buco della Serratura
The Buco della Serratura is perhaps the most striking and unique view you will see on this heart of Rome walk. Although you’ll first only see a green door and a facade with sculptures, once you peek through the keyhole in the ornate door, you are presented with a magnificent view of the dome of St. Peter’s Basilica in all its glory. This is framed by a series of manicured pergola trees that focus your attention on the dome.
Discover Real Gems in the Ancient Heart of Rome
Unearth Rome’s authentic treasures with Treasures of Rome
So why should you choose our tour from the many other walking tours? At Treasures of Rome, we have a passion for Rome and want everyone else to learn about its history and witness the beauty it contains. Here’s what makes our tours unique:
Small group tours: We take on only up to five people per tour, which ensures you’ll have a pleasant walk that is very similar to a private tour.
Certified local tour guides: Our guides are experts in Rome’s history and modern life. They know the secrets of the Vatican City, the best times to visit the Trevi Fountain and the Pantheon to avoid crowds, and the coziest locations across the city, from Piazza Navona and the Spanish Steps to the Tiber Island.
Entrance fees are included: You won’t have to worry about additional expenses — the fees are included in the price of our antiquity tours in Rome!
Forget about large and noisy groups that the guide has to shout over. If you want an informative history of Rome tour that also offers some fun and amazing viewpoints, the Views of Rome is your best choice. Check out our other tours to learn more about different parts of the city and aspects of the local history!
What does this tour offer?
This walking tour of Rome centers on the different views available in the city. Rome has limitless perspectives — from Palatine Hill to St. Peter’s Basilica and the Trevi Fountain. Every viewpoint offers something different, and with this Rome history tour, we aim to show the majesty of the most breathtaking views, including:
- Piazza Venezia
- Il Vittoriano
- Santa Maria in Aracoeli
- Piazza del Campidoglio
- Via degli Fori Imperiali
- Santa Sabina
- Giardino degli Aranci
- Buco della Serratura
Some of the views allow you to take in the glory and epicness of piazzas and monuments such as the Piazza del Campidoglio and Il Vittoriano. These serve as a reminder of Rome’s glory and how it has always been a powerful city and place where historic events have unfolded.
Other views on this Rome architecture tour, however, allow you to walk in the footsteps of its ancient citizens and take a glimpse into antiquity. You will also get to enter historic buildings that have played host to emperors and saints alike such as Santa Sabina and Santa Maria in Aracoeli.
Local Insights to Enhance Your Trip
During this heart of Rome tour, you will cover a decent distance from the banks of the Tiber River, to the heights of Aventine Hill. Therefore, we recommend comfortable shoes to make your journey easier and bring plenty of water to stay hydrated.
Considering that this is not a food tour, you might want to take some snacks with you. However, there is a brilliant variety of restaurants, cafés, and gelaterias along the route. Our guide will point out the best places to visit along the way so that you can easily walk to them after the tour ends. You can also ask for more specific recommendations — our guides are local experts so you can trust them to suggest the places that locals love and not just tourist traps.
Once you have finished the tour, there are several Metro stations close by if you prefer to not walk — Piramide and Circo Massimo to the south of Santa Sabina, or Colosseo along Via dei Fori Imperiali.
During the summer months, temperatures in the heart of Rome can be as high as 40 degrees Celsius. Even though our tours start in the morning hours, sun protection is still a great idea. Take a sunhat and sun cream with you, as there are plenty of stretches where you are walking outdoors without cover.
Thanks to the fact that we don’t have large groups, your guide will keep you safe and make sure you enjoy the Rome walking tour. However, you must still be attentive and aware of your surroundings. Don’t stray too far from your group, listen to your guide’s instructions, and keep your personal belongings on your personage at all times.
Book Rome City Center Walking Tour Here!
Rome Walking Tour Map – Meeting Point
Basilica di San Marco
Piazza di S. Marco, 00186 Roma RM, Italy
Monday – Friday: 09:00
Cancellations: Cancellations can be made free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour starts.
Attire: Casual attire is perfect, but please make sure you cover your shoulders, knees, and back.
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Treasures of Rome – Rome Guided Tours
Roberto Alois Lautenschlager Kung
[email protected]
Partita IVA: 17002181000
“ROMA AETERNA EST”
Rome is eternal – (Albius Tibullus)