Must Shoot: Top Photo Spots to Visit in Rome, Italy

Rome, the eternal city, is a timeless masterpiece that holds the keys to a rich history spanning over two millennia. As the capital of Italy, this enchanting metropolis is a treasure trove for photographers, offering an abundance of iconic landmarks, ancient ruins, and romantic vistas. Whether you're capturing the grandeur of ancient architecture or the charm of bustling streets, the eternal city beckons with an array of picture-perfect locations. Here's our take on the top photo spots in Rome.

The Colosseum

A symbol of ancient Roman engineering and power, the Colosseum is an essential photo location in Rome. As one of the most recognizable landmarks in the world, this grand amphitheater offers countless angles for capturing its majestic beauty. While there are several great locations from which you can capture stunning photos of the Colosseum, we recommend the Palatine Hill which offers a panoramic view of the Colosseum from a distance. The sweeping views of the ancient ruins and the Colosseum against the backdrop of the Roman Forum can make for captivating photographs. Visit during sunrise or sunset for the best lighting conditions. You will also find great opportunities along the Via di San Gregorio, the street that leads up to the Colosseum. You can frame the Colosseum between the trees and buildings along the street for a picturesque shot.

The Colosseum pictured up close shows the age of the stones that make this ruin a Roman Icon

Roman Forum

Adjacent to the Colosseum lies the Roman Forum, a sprawling archaeological site that once served as the heart of ancient Rome. Its ruins and majestic columns provide a fascinating backdrop for history enthusiasts and photographers alike. Opt for a wide-angle lens to capture the sense of scale and to include the neighboring Palatine Hill in your composition. The view from the Forum Overlook will also allow you to capture the Colosseum from an elevated position. Look for spots where you can frame the Colosseum through ancient columns or arches for a creative composition.

Spend a few hours exploring the Forum and get immersed in Ancient Rome

Vatican City

Vatican City, the world's smallest independent state, is a treasure trove of photographic opportunities. St. Peter's Basilica and St. Peter's Square, with its grand colonnades, offer stunning architectural shots. Be sure to climb to the top of the dome for breathtaking panoramic views of the city. Inside the Vatican Museums, you'll find endless opportunities to capture exquisite art and intricate details including the famed spiral staircase. This enchanting staircase is made up of two staircases: an upward and a downward staircase in a double helix and they combine to create a mesmerizing effect. The sculptures in the garden also mix modern and ancient to amazing effect.

The architectural brilliance of St. Peter's Basilica

Rays of light inside St. Peter's

The amazing double helix staircase inside the Vatican Museum

Pomodoro's Sphere within a Sphere in the Vatican sculpture garden

There are no shortage of creative compositions within the Vatican complex waiting to be discovered

The Pantheon

The Pantheon, a marvel of ancient Roman architecture and one of the most recognizable buildings in Rome, boasts the world's largest unreinforced concrete dome. Its oculus allows a beautiful interplay of light and shadows, creating a mesmerizing atmosphere for photography, especially during golden hour. Don't forget to spend time people watching and photographing the world go by in the Piazza della Rotonda outside the Pantheon - almost as mesmerizing as the ancient temple itself!

The famous dome of the Pantheon looks great with a high contrast edit

Grab a coffee or a glass of wine and enjoy photographing this must shoot location

Trevi Fountain

The Trevi Fountain is a true masterpiece of baroque art and a must-visit location for photographers. Its grand scale, intricate sculptures, and cascading water offer a magical setting for capturing romantic and timeless images. Visit in the early morning to avoid the crowds and capture the fountain's splendor in tranquility.

You'll need to be up very early to shoot the Trevi Fountain without the crowds, but even surrounded by people you can find some great shots

Piazza Navona

Piazza Navona, one of Rome's most famous and charming squares, is surrounded by elegant palaces and adorned with Bernini's Fountain of the Four Rivers. The fountain, surrounded by intricate sculptures representing four major rivers, creates a central focus for striking photographs. The square's lively atmosphere and street performers provide ample opportunities for capturing candid shots and the many bars dotted along the sides of the square are perfect for people watching.

Piazza Navona - a place to see and be seen and take some great photos

Bernini's Fountain of the Four Rivers dominates the Piazza and is a subject for varied compositions

Experiment with reflections as a way to frame Rome's beautiful sculptures and architecture

Campo Di Fiori

Campo di Fiori is a historic square located in the heart of Rome. Its name translates to "Field of Flowers" and the square has a rich history dating back to the Middle Ages but today it hosts a bustling open-air market where vendors sell a variety of products, including fresh fruits, vegetables, flowers, spices, and other local goods. The market creates a colorful and aromatic atmosphere that attracts both locals and tourists. Its location near several other notable attractions including the Piazza Navona, the Pantheon, and the Tiber River make it a great stop on any tour of Rome and its unique blend of history, culture, and modern life, make it a captivating and dynamic subject for any photographer.

Rome has so many big photography subjects, but sometimes the small details can be just as interesting

Campo Di Fiori is a great place to take still life photos to be proud of

Trastevere

The charming neighborhood of Trastevere offers a taste of old-world Rome with its cobblestone streets, colorful facades, and quaint alleyways. Stroll through this bohemian district to discover picturesque scenes and vibrant street life, perfect for candid street photography.

Street photography opportunities are everywhere in the neighborhood of Trastevere

Borghese Gallery

A former villa converted to an art gallery/museum, the Borghese Gallery is a must see and must shoot location in Rome. Packed with amazing art and sculpture, you can wander the beautiful halls and rooms here, for hours and never be bored.

Small fountain outside the fascinating Borghese Gallery

St Jerome by Caravaggio is one of many amazing paintings at the Borghese

Find the small details to capture the skill of the artist like this close-up that shows the genius of Bernini

Castel Sant'Angelo

This ancient fortress, originally built as a mausoleum for Emperor Hadrian, now offers captivating views of the Tiber River and the cityscape. Climb to the top for exceptional shots, especially during the golden hours when the setting sun casts a warm glow over the city. While visiting, walk across the nearby Bridge of Angels and photograph the amazing sculptures by Bernini.

Castel Sant'Angelo with the Tiber and Bridge of Angels

The dome of St. Peter's can been seen from miles around the "low-rise" city of Rome

Rome's allure as a photographer's dream is evident in every corner of the city. With its rich history, breathtaking architecture, and romantic ambiance it's always near the top of any photographer's "must shoot" list. So, pack your camera, wander through the ancient streets, and let the beauty of the eternal city unfold before your lens.