The Colosseum is the most magnificent monument in Rome. It was built to fit 50,000 people and to be quickly emptied through a series of archways, which you still see in modern stadiums today.
Piazza del Colosseo, Rome, ItalyAfter running around Rome, tourists need a breather and the Spanish Steps are the ultimate place to sit down. At the foot of the steps lie a lovely piazza and fountain, as well as one of the most exclusive shopping areas in all of Rome.
Via Condotti, Via del Babuino, and Via Due Macelli, Rome, ItalyBuilt in 1751, the Trevi is Rome's largest fountain. It depicts Neptune in a chariot being pulled by seahorses, which in turn are being guided by mythological sea creatures known as tritons.
Piazza di Trevi, Rome, ItalyBuilt around A.D. 125 as a temple to the gods, the Pantheon is the best-preserved building of ancient Rome.
Piazza della Rotonda, Rome, ItalyOne of the city's major hangouts, the grand piazza is perpetually filled with crowds of tourists and street performers. Its centerpiece is the dramatic Fountain of the Four Rivers, designed by Bernini.
Piazza Navona, Rome, ItalyVatican City is the spiritual heart and headquarters for the Roman Catholic Church. It's actually its own sovereign state, and at 0.2 square miles, it's the world's smallest country.
Vatican CityThe Roman Forum was the epicenter of downtown ancient Rome. It's where the Romans used to meet, shop, do business and practice politics.
Via dei Fori Imperiali and Piazza del Colosseo, Rome, ItalyCampo de Fiori is one of the loveliest piazzas in all of Rome. Every morning, except Sundays, it's the site of an open-air market for fresh flowers, fish, fruit, vegetables and spices.
Campo de Fiori, Rome, ItalyThe contemporary decor belies the fact that Hotel Art was actually built in what used to be a former monastery. The rooms are urban chic and spacious, but you pay for it dearly, especially during the high season.
Via Margutta 56, 00187 Rome, Italy