5 Attractions to Visit after the Vatican Museums

The Vatican Museums are located in the heart of Rome, which means that after a visit there, there are many more places to head to on a day out in the Eternal City. In addition to the Vatican, there are several other popular attractions which checking out in Rome and which are often included in combo tours:

1 - Trevi Fountain‍

One of the most famous and iconic fountains in the world, the Fontana di Trevi is located in the historic center of Rome. The intricately decorated Baroque fountain has a rich history and attracts about 1,000 visitors every hour. Aside from being one of the greatest sights in the city, the fountain is said to grant wishes to those who throw coins in it. The many cafés in the surrounding area are perfect for a break, a selfie and to grab a quick coffee, before continuing the exploration of the city on foot.

2 - The Pantheon‍

The ancient Roman temple on Piazza della Rotonda, right around the corner from the Santa Maria sopra Minerva Basilica, is the country’s best-preserved monument – the Pantheon. It was built in the 2nd century AD and has been used as a church dedicated to St. Mary and the Martyrs for over 1,400 years. Additionally, the Pantheon also serves as the final resting place for important Italian kings, poets and artists. The impressive Pantheon is regarded as a deeply influential building on western architecture and stands out for its giant unsupported dome with a hole, which is the largest in the world.

3 - Piazza Navona‍

The lively Piazza Navona is located near the Pantheon and is renowned for its baroque architecture. The standout features of the square are the three magnificent fountains, including the Fountain of the Four Rivers designed by Gian Lorenzo Bernini. With street artists and performers during the day and cozy cafés and restaurants creating a romantic atmosphere in the evening, the piazza is busy at all times. In the heart of Rome, Piazza Navona is an ideal place to relax, people-watch and soak up the charming and vibrant atmosphere of the city.

4 - Castel Sant'Angelo‍

A stone’s throw away from the Vatican, on Piazza Adrianna, lies the majestic Castel Sant'Angelo. The towering fortress and former papal residence now operates as a museum and offers a stunning view of Rome and the Tiber from its terrace. It is connected to the Vatican with the 800-meter "Passetto" passageway and features a marble-faced bridge spanning the river. Also known as the Mausoleum of Hadrian, the Castel Sant'Angelo has a rich history within its walls that will delight history buffs.

5 - The Spanish Steps‍

Connecting Piazza di Spagna to the church of Trinità dei Monti, the grand staircase designed by architects Francesco de Sanctis and Alessandro Specchi consists of 138 steps and offers a breathtaking view of the city. In May, the Spanish Steps are decorated with azaleas in flowerpots and are a very popular stop on walking tours through the city. During the day, street artists and performers entertain the crowds around the staircase, making them an ideal place for visitors to catch their breath and indulge in a bit of shopping and dining.

Every corner of the Eternal City is seemingly full of history, culture and wonder; from the monumental structures of the past and artistic masterpieces decorating the Vatican halls, to the lively piazzas and charming cafés there is something for everyone in Rome.