1- Il Colosseo

This was the largest public venue facility in antiquity and is colossal in every sense of the word. Ten years in the making, the arena stood 160 feet high with four stories of arches, columns and windows and a seating capacity of 50,000. The Colosseum was the site of mock naval skirmishes, oratory performances, animal shows and gladiatorial battles. It was also here that Christians were fed to the lions.

2- Piazza di Spagna

The Scalinata di Spagna, steps extending from Piazza di Spagna to Trinita dei Monti, were originally named after the Spanish Embassy adjacent. Ascend further from the top of the steps to get good views of Rome. The steps had a major restoration in 1995-6, and the once popular art of lunching on the steps is frowned upon, and fines can be levied. At the foot of the steps is the Keats-Shelley Memorial House (9 am to 1 pm and 2.30 to 5.30 pm, Monday to Friday, admission charge). The area around the steps offers designer shops, restaurants and bars.

3- Vatican city

Comprised of 108.7 acres, the Vatican is an independent state with an estimated population of 800. The city includes St. Peter's Basilica, the Sistine Chapel, the Vatican museums, a library, gardens and the Belvedere Park. The Vatican has its own broadcasting facility, currency, citizenship, flag, postage stamps, newspaper and railroad station. Potential visitors should be aware of the strict dress code when entering St Peter's Basilica: shoulders and legs (to the knee) must be covered.

4- Pantheon

Among Rome's signature buildings, the Pantheon was rebuilt in 117-125 AD by Emperor Hadrian to replace a previous structure commissioned by Agrippa in 27 BC. The original rectangular facility, which was comprised of 16 granite columns, serves as the porch of the dome structure.

5- Campo dei Fiori

This large, open air market is a hub of activity. Flowers, fruits, vegetables, cheese, are all sold here. Strike up a conversation with the vendors, ask them where they are from and where their produce was grown. If you are lucky they will give you a free taste.

6- Foro romano

Rome's most famous forum was for several hundred years the site of the city's important municipal buildings. The Empire's rapid growth eventually outgrew the area, but it remains a insightful glimpse into a remarkable era.

7- Castel Sant'Angelo

A statue of the Archangel Michael stands atop the Castel Sant'Angelo and is the source of the castle's name. It was originally built in the second century as Emperor Hadrian's mausoleum. Visitors, especially kids, will be charmed by the draw bridges, trap doors, ditches, canons, dungeons, weapons and papal apartments here. The terrace of the castle offers a splendid view of the city in all directions. There is also a charming café.