7 must visit spots when photographing Rome’s landmarks.
Rome is my favourite city.
The food, landmarks, and ancient history are truly unique.
There are some awesome aesthetics throughout the city also, so I have recommended 7 awesome spots you should head to when photographing Rome’s landmarks.
The Italian capital has vast history dating back thousands of years, and incredibly, many of the city’s highlights have been preserved well for us all to enjoy, and to capture on camera!
The history of Rome is complex, but captivating, and its important landmarks paint a picture of the history of the city.
This blog uncovers my favourite spots, however, there are many more to go and discover for yourself, as you explore the beautiful city.
Let’s start at Rome’s wonder of the world!
Posing in front of the Colosseum.
The Colosseum.
When it was built as an ancient Flavian Amphitheatre, the Colosseum was a gift to the Roman people, so they could enjoy Gladiator shows, amongst other live entertainment.
Nearly two thousand years later, it is a gift to locals and international visitors.
The iconic amphitheatre draws in millions of visitors each year, who all want a taste of life in the days of the Romans.
As a Rome photography location, the Colosseum is second to none, with the aesthetically pleasing remnant providing a world class backdrop from most of the city!
Pictures of Rome don’t come much better than a sunrise behind this beautiful wonder of the world!
Starting to get busier in the morning.
As one of the most iconic places to photograph in Rome, the Colosseum offers visitors a fun experience, both inside and oustside.
I really enjoyed exploring the inside, and imagining how the crowds would have reacted thousands of years ago.
Climbing up the different levels of the seating area offers many different angles of the amphitheatre.
This is definitely one of Rome Instagram spots that you should spend significant time at, as wandering around the outside Colosseum reveals many awesome photo opportunities!
As you would expect, you are likely to have to pay the price to enjoy this wonder, whether it is in time queuing, or cash to skip the line.
Rome is a tourist trap, so be prepared!
To have some quiet time at the Colosseum, you should head over the ancient structure as early as sunrise, before the crowds start to congregate.
An Italian style espresso from one of the cafes which offer Colosseum viewpoints is the perfect way to start your day!
Best time to visit the Colosseum: Very early in the morning, all year round.
A unique photograph to capture: Catch the sunrise from the upper levels, including the awesome shadows.
A sunrise shot of the wonder.
An interesting angle of the Colosseum.
Piazza Navona.
A wander around one of Rome’s most famous squares takes us on another history lesson.
Piazza Navona takes us all in a time machine back to the Baroque Period of the Italian capital.
As famous photography spots in Rome go, the Baroque architecture, and historic fountains, make this square a very popular place with international guests.
I found the square to be very underrated in the city, despite having some tough competition, in terms of history and aesthetics.
The night time show is fun.
An evening visit during The Luce d'Artista light shows in Rome are special, with visuals lighting up the square.
This is a rare occurrence, so plan ahead if you want to catch one of the shows.
Street performers perk up the square through the daytime everyday though, even in the lower seasons, which, along with the colourful buildings, make it a very vibrant area to explore.
I really enjoyed sampling the local coffee and pastries while observing the daily life in the square!
Some fun statues.
Rome's unique photo spots don’t come better than this one!
The square is home to three famous fountains, all of which offer different stories through artistic mastery.
Fountain of the Four Rivers by Bernini:
The fountain is located centrally in the square, and features four river gods representing major rivers from different continents.
Fountain of Neptune:
In the northern end is my favourite fountain, which depicts Neptune surrounded by sea creatures. This felt like the most traditional Roman fountain.
Fountain of Moor by Giambologna:
At the opposite end, on the south side, showcasing a Moor battling a dolphin.
All three fountains are examples of Baroque art, which date back to between the late 16th century to the early 18th century.
The Baroque church of Sant’Agnese in Agone makes for a great backdrop to the Fountain of the Four Rivers.
Best time to visit Piazza Navona: sunset for a beautiful ambiance with the piazza's fountains and sculptures illuminated.
A unique photograph to capture: Fountain of the Four Rivers by Bernini, especially during the golden hour
The famous Fountain of Neptune.
Tiber River.
Although it doesn’t receive the global recognition of the main attractions in the city, the Tiber River provides some hidden photo spots in Rome.
The tranquil moments next to the river which can be enjoyed at certain vantage points beside the river make it a must visit spot.
This selection leaves you to your own exploration and discoveries!
Planning the correct route will allow you to enjoy the best of the Tiber River in between viewing the other landmarks, while getting your steps in.
The evening glow on the river is special.
Many beautiful pictures of Rome have been taken in the golden hour in front of the iconic bridges in the city.
The river reflects surrounding architecture, such as the Vatican, Castel Sant'Angelo, or St. Peter’s Basilica, especially during sunrise or sunset.
Historic bridges like Ponte Sant’Angelo and Ponte Sisto are a photographer's dream, as they provide dramatic backdrops with their arches and statues.
The featured domed roof buildings also add to the ancient vibe.
Daytime walks.
Walking along the Tiber also provides a quieter alternative to Rome's bustling streets, offering a peaceful way to experience the city's layered history and charm.
The interplay of light and shadow, especially at twilight, makes the Tiber River an enchanting subject for creative and unforgettable shots.
Best time to wander along the river: A morning wander is ideal for fewer crowds, and beautiful weather for most of the year.
A unique photograph to capture: Ponte Sant’Angelo provides an iconic landscape shot in the city.
Another aesthetically pleasing evening.
Trevi Fountain.
Some landmarks are just instantly recognisable for global travellers, and Trevi Fountain is one of those!
Fontana di Trevi is a world-famous Baroque masterpiece that holds historical and cultural significance in Rome. and represents a deep connection to the city’s history, art, and urban development.
Therefore, it is no surprise that it is poser central!
As well as being one of the iconic places to photograph in Rome, it has also historically served the city in a practical way.
Although the current Baroque fountain is largely decorative and does not function as a water distribution system, it is symbolically tied to the city’s ancient water supply infrastructure through its placement at the end of the Aqua Virgo.
Taking an official tour is the best way to learn the detailed vast history of ancient Rome.
I found that exploring the landmarks with more in-depth knowledge of each one made it more rewarding.
A close up shot of Trevi Fountain.
If you want to take part in one of Rome’s famous traditions with millions of other annual visitors, then make sure you bring some coins with you!
The coin-throwing tradition at Trevi Fountain dates back to ancient Roman times, when it is said that ancient Romans would toss coins into water as offerings to gods for good fortune or safe journeys.
The ritual has become a cultural phenomenon in modern times, with tourists from all over the world participating.
Best time to visit Trevi Fountain: First thing in the morning, usually before 8am for some solitude with the fountain.
A unique photograph to capture: As the sun starts to set at' ‘Golden Hour’ the lights glow the fountain up, to create a nice photo opportunity.
A close up shot of Trevi Fountain at night.
The Spanish Steps (Piazza di Spagna).
The Spanish Steps have been a feature of Rome for nearly 300 years, since their construction finished in 1725.
The steps are a masterpiece of Baroque architecture, leading from the Piazza di Spagna to the Trinità dei Monti church at the top. They gain their name from the location of the Spanish Embassy in the area, and are now known as a tourist hotspot in the city.
This is one of the most Instagrammable spots in Rome due to the framing opportunities, with so many places offering different photos.
I enjoyed placing my camera right in front of the Barcaccia Fountain, to create a nice frame of the steps. If you head to the top of the steps, you can enjoy an awesome view of the cityscape of Rome, which makes for another unique photo.
There is a similar buzz around this area as there is at the famous steps in the Old Town when I was exploring Dubrovnik in Croatia.
As you would expect with one of the famous photography spots Rome.
Early morning is the only time you will get an empty staircase.
This is one of the landmarks on the list which has a vibrant atmosphere, even when it gets busy.
When we visited, we sat on the steps and enjoyed a coffee while watching the whole area buzzing with locals and visitors, despite there apparently being a fine if you get caught sitting on the steps.
There were many people chilling as we arrived.
As with the other tourist spots in Rome, you can expect to be pestered, but this time by the vendors selling flowers.
Although it can get tedious after a while, the colourful flowers add a nice effect into some photos of the stairs.
Best time to visit the Spanish Steps: Early in the morning for an empty picture perfect staircase, or afternoon for the best atmosphere.
A unique photograph to capture: From the bottom of the steps, you can capture the sweeping staircase with Trinità dei Monti church in the background.
Awesome effects.
The Roman Forum.
In terms of architectural appeal and historical significance, the Roman Forum is one of the most popular in Rome.
The ancient site was once the centre of Roman political, social, and religious life, and it is situated very close to the Colosseum, so you can be sure that that ancient wonder provides the perfect backdrop for snaps of the ruins.
Being home to landmarks like the Arch of Titus, the Temple of Saturn, and the Basilica of Maxentius, means that the Roman Forum is full of visually striking compositions!
The greenery which occupies the space next to the relics helps to brighten up the ancient architecture.
Roman Forum.
This site is the most damaged site on the list due to it being an open-air site, and receiving damage from natural occurrences over the centuries, however, its weathered effects has created some unique aesthetics.
The area is a visual reminder of the passage of time and the impermanence of the ancient civilisations which once called the city home!
The juxtaposition of ancient ruins against the colourful city skyline which are a feature of our modern times, makes for a fun architectural blend.
Best time to visit the Roman Forum: We visited early in the morning, and the shadows were long and dramatic, which were perfect for highlighting architectural details.
A unique photograph to capture: Framing the Temple of Saturn at sunrise through an Ancient Arch.
Another awesome shot with the Colosseum backdrop.
Vatican City.
Last, but certainly not least, is Vatican City!
This treasure trove of art, history, and religious significance, is also a dream spot for photographer’s.
Whether it is the soaring dome of St. Peter’s Basilica, or the unique ceiling at the Sistine Chapel, the aesthetics of the religious epicentre are a big draw for international visitors.
An early morning wander around St Peter’s Square opens up many photo spots before the crowds arrive.
Don’t miss capturing the Swiss Guards in their vibrant uniforms or the intricate details of the colonnades.
This is definitely an area of the city where heavy crowds can ruin the vibe, and your scenic shots!
St Peters Basilica.
Standing proudly at the center of St. Peter’s Square, the Vatican Obelisk is a striking and historical landmark that makes for a perfect photographic subject.
The obelisk offers a dramatic focal point, particularly during sunrise or sunset when shadows stretch across the square.
Framing it with St. Peter’s Basilica or the colonnades adds depth and context, while close-up shots reveal intricate details like the bronze globe and cross at its peak.
For a completely different perspective of Vatican City, the Vatican Gardens offer a serene escape from the bustling square and monumental architecture.
Unlike the grandeur of St. Peter’s Basilica or the imposing obelisk, the gardens provide a more tranquil and intimate vibe, perfect for nature photography and quiet reflection.
Best time to visit Vatican City: Early morning at sunrise for fewer crowds, or late evening just before sunset for atmosphere.
A unique photograph to capture: Capturing the Vatican obelisk framed by Bernini's iconic colonnades in St. Peter’s Square at sunrise offers a stunning composition that combines symmetry, light, and history.
Sphere within a Sphere in Vatican City.
Some tips for photographing Rome.
With over 25 million annual visitors to the city, it should be no surprise that the landmarks are crowded often, making grabbing that perfect snap tricky!
Here are some tips which will help you to beat the crowds, and capture some surreal shots of ancient Rome:
Plan the popular spots in advance.
You should be aiming to visit places such as the Colosseum or Trevi Fountain at sunrise, or before 8am at the latest to grab some iconic shots, along with avoiding scam artists.
Capture unique dynamic details.
I enjoyed trying to capture typical Italian life in my photos, such as Vespa scooters, and espresso bars.
Take advantage of rooftops.
There are many rooftop bars in Rome, which help to capture the cityscape from a different perspective. I felt the ancient history of the city just by admiring the domed roofed buildings at a level of height.
Be patient and creative.
Waiting at a spot for a little longer can make all the difference in timing of your Instagram photos.
Rome is a walkable city, so mapping out the landmarks in the correct way makes all the difference, especially in summer months.
Check out this Interactive map of Rome’s landmarks.
A colourful photo of Rome.
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An ancient vibe.
Which is my favourite Instagram spot in Rome?
This is an easy decision for me.
The Colosseum wins it!
It was a very unique moment walking into the middle of the arena, knowing that gladiators would have made the exact same walk thousands of years ago.
There is something very special about exploring historic remnants, which I also enjoyed when in Egypt, exploring its ancient temples.
There is a reason why the Colosseum was voted as a wonder of the world, as it is spectacular in every sense!
Rome has done very well in preserving the amphitheatre for our generation to enjoy.
As I mentioned above, you should aim to visit this wonder as soon as possible, to fully appreciate its aesthetics, and to capture the perfect Rome Instagram shot.
Walking into the Colosseum.
Another European capital with rich history and unique aesthetics.
If you are fascinated by a city’s rich past, and iconic landmarks, then Berlin is another awesome option!
Its vast history is painted through some unique aesthetics in the German capital, including its iconic East Side Gallery, Television Tower, Berlin Cathedral, and the Memorial of the Murdered Jews.
During my day exploring Berlin, I found myself in a time machine, exploring the historic remnants from different eras of the city.
If you prefer modern and quirky though, its street art area is also fun to explore, and the locals are very open minded and welcoming for international visitors to the city.
Disclosure: I sometimes use affiliate marketing. This will not cost you anything, but helps with my travel costs. I only recommend companies I use myself.