10 photo spots in Rome for that picture-perfect shot

As cliché as it may be, part of the joy of a trip is taking plenty of spectacular photos. And in Rome, you don’t really have to look hard—the city has lovely photo spots at every corner.

So before your next trip, sign yourself up for a photo tour, or bookmark this list of the best photo spots around Rome.

Located at St. Peter’s Square, St. Peter’s Basilica boasts a stunning view of the Vatican City. You can climb 551 steps to the top for free, or take an elevator up for a small fee.

There’s often a queue to get into the basilica itself, so plan your time wisely. If you’re on a tight schedule, this ‘Faster than Skip-the-Line’ tour will get you to the front of the line with a tour guide. If not, avoid the crowds by visiting early in the morning, or just before dusk falls.

There are seven hills on which ancient Rome was built, and Aventine Hill is one of them. Take a leisurely walk up the hill, and explore the municipal rose garden along the way. The highlight, however, is the Aventine Keyhole, which is found at an unassuming green wooden door right at the top of the hill.

Peek through this keyhole for views of the garden with St. Peter’s Basilica in the background. It’s best to visit at golden hour, when a hazy glow hangs over the gardens.

The Colosseum is one of Rome’s most famous sights, and for good reason—this giant amphitheater once seated up to 80,000 spectators.

For a great shot of the exterior, head to Via Nicola Savli for an elevated vantage point. Sunset is also a good time to photograph this monument, which stands sentinel against a backdrop of fiery rays. Your entrance ticket to the Colosseum also includes the awe-inspiring Roman Forum ruins—another fantastic photo spot. It’s also a great spot for wedding photos—consider hiring a professional photographer to capture the best shots.

Located at Piazza Poli, the Trevi Fountain is made out of smooth travertine marble, and adorned with regal sculptures of Oceanus, Abundance, and Salubrity.

Visit early in the morning to snag a shot without the crowds. Bring a companion to help you capture the moment where you throw a coin over your left shoulder and into the fountain—according to legend, this foretells your return to Rome.

Another of Rome’s iconic sights, the Pantheon was previously an ancient Roman temple but now serves as a church. The front of the Pantheon is lined with towering pillars, but venture inside for the cherry on the top. You’ll discover a dome—the largest unreinforced concrete dome in the world—with a circular hole in the middle. This hole is also known as the eye of the Pantheon, and makes for a pretty photo opportunity.

To get more out of your experience, check out this official audio-guided tour.

After a long day of exploring, unwind by taking a slow walk along the idyllic Tiber River. Running through the city, the river is lined with lots of photo spots and picturesque bridges, the most famous being the St. Angelo Bridge.

Head towards the Vatican for a scenic panorama. The best times to visit include early in the day, at sunset, and at night. Rome is especially enchanting at night; experience it on this night photo tour and workshop under the stars.

Whilst you’re there, snap some shots of the Castel Sant’Angelo, which is nestled along the river. If you’re lucky to be there when the river is calm, you might even score a great shot of the monument’s reflection in the water.

Photography is permitted in the Vatican Museums, and not just in the Sistine Chapel. Head to the top of the Bramante Staircase, an impressive spiral staircase that makes for a great photo.

Your eyes aren’t playing tricks on you: the staircase is made out of two separate staircases which combine in a spellbinding double helix. Use a wide-angle lens and get there early to photograph the staircase without crowds.

Built between 1911 and 1935, the Altar of the Fatherland was a tribute to Vittorio Emmanuel II, the first King to preside over a unified Italy. Its size is probably the first thing you will notice, standing at 266 feet high, and 443 feet wide.

Located right by Piazza Venezia, the monument is one of Rome’s finest architectural buildings. See if you can capture the entire monument from the front. If you have time, drop by at night as well when the building is illuminated.

Villa Borghese is Rome’s third-largest park, teeming with lush flora and fauna and home to various attractions and museums.

Time isn’t of the essence here; one of the best things to do at Villa Borghese is just to wander the grounds. Set up a picnic and while the afternoon away here, or stumble upon cool photo spots around the park.

Discover more on this electric bicycle tour, or have an intimate experience with this skip-the-line Borghese Gallery and Gardens private tour.

One of the favorite parts about exploring a new city is getting lost in various neighborhoods. The Trastevere district is one of our top picks; it’s a quaint bohemian enclave lined with pubs, an eclectic range of shops, and quirky trattorias. Uncover its secrets on a private walking tour, or book a photoshoot to discover all the best spots.

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