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24 Best Rome Instagram Spots

With a colorful history spanning nearly three thousand years, Rome features famous ruins, monumental architecture, high-caliber art museums, majestic churches, charming squares, and character-filled streets. Irrespective of whether you are looking for unique spots to have a professional photoshoot in or would simply like to add some eye-catching shots to your Instagram feed, Rome has plenty to offer. So, let’s take a look at some of the best Rome Instagram spots so that you can hit both popular sites and hidden gems that may not show up in a traditional guidebook.

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Best Rome Instagram Spots

Please keep in mind that some of the best photo spots in Rome aren’t free and require a ticket. Consequently, their opening hours must be taken into account before your visit. 

1. The Spanish Steps

Rome Photo Spots: A man posing on the famous Spanish Steps

The glamorously upsweeping Spanish Steps (Scalinata di Spagna) are one of Rome’s most distinctive landmarks. Designed by Italian architect Francesco de Sanctis and completed in 1725, they were funded almost entirely by the French as a preface to the graceful Trinità dei Monti Church at the top.

Combined with the twin towers of the church of Trinità dei Monti on top and the bizarrely shaped Barcaccia fountain below, the Spanish steps form one of the most iconic Instagram photo spots in Rome.

The Spanish Steps have also featured in several films, including the 1953 classic romantic comedy film Roman Holiday starring Audrey Hepburn and Gregory Peck and 1999’s The Talented Mr. Ripley starring Matt Damon.

Having undergone a major restoration in 2016, the once-popular art of sitting and eating on the Spanish Steps has been outlawed since 2019. Police officers patrol the steps and those caught transgressing risk a fine of 250 EUR, which can rise to 400 EUR if the steps are dirtied or damaged.

Since it’s no longer possible to sit on the steps, you’ll need to snap your pictures simply standing on the stairs or in motion. 

Best time for pics: Anytime during the day but go there very early in the morning unless you want a zillion people in the background photobombing your picture.

Cost: Free

2. Trevi Fountain

Instagrammable Rome: A beautiful woman sitting on a ledge in front of the famous Trevi Fountain

One of Rome’s most visited sights, the incomparable Trevi Fountain (Fontana di Trevi) is the city’s grandest and best-known fountain. The Nicola Salvi-designed late Baroque fountain is colossal in size and almost fills the tiny Piazza di Trevi.

Each day, swarms of tourists visit the Trevi Fountain to admire its dynamic pageant of mythological figures including the Titan god Oceanus, who are surrounded by mermen, seahorses, and cascading pools.

You’ll also often see people tossing coins in the Trevi Fountain. According to popular lore, everyone who throws a coin in the Trevi Fountain is destined to return to the Eternal City.

The Trevi Fountain is a monumental feast for the eyes and its sheer size accords you the possibility to take photos from an array of angles. It’s no surprise that it has been immortalized in many famous films over the years.

Best time for pics: Similar to the Spanish Steps, the Trevi Fountain is almost always crowded. Go there super early in the morning unless you want a zillion people in the background photobombing your picture.

Cost: Free. Unless of course, you feel like throwing some coins in the fountain 😉

Pro Tip

Even though you might get the urge to wade through the waters of Trevi Fountain, be forewarned that police patrol the Trevi Fountain 24 hours a day to keep out movie buffs and splash-happy tourists alike. Transgressors risk a fine of up to 500 EUR.

3. St. Peter’s Basilica

Rome Photo Spots: A couple posing for a photo in St. Peter's Square in front of St. Peter's Basilica

Technically located in Vatican City, the world’s smallest country,  St. Peter’s Basilica (Basilica San Pietro) is the center of the Roman Catholic faith and draws pilgrims from all over the world. 

The incomprehensibly voluminous basilica is packed with incalculable riches, and few are disappointed when they enter the sumptuously decorated basilica. Designed by Michelangelo, the dome of St. Peter’s is especially a sight to behold.

Standing in front of the magnificent basilica in St. Peter’s Square (Piazza San Pietro) offers one of the best photo spots in Rome. 

An elevator ride (or a rigorous climb) up the tower to Michelangelo’s glorious dome provides panoramic views of Rome. From the top, you can admire the superb symmetry of Bernini’s colonnade in St. Peter’s Square.

Opening Hours: Daily from 07:00-19:10 (April-September), and 07:00-18:30 (October-March). The dome (cupola) is open daily from 07:30-18:00 (April-September), and 07:30-17:00 (October-March).

Best time for pics: As St.Peter’s Square is one of the most visited attractions in Rome, it’s best to go there early in the morning to get better photos. The same goes for St. Peter’s Basilica as the queues can be horrendous unless you get there early in the morning.

Cost: Free entrance to St. Peter’s Basilica and St. Peter’s Square. You will need to buy a ticket to access the viewpoint at the top of the dome of St. Peter’s.

A ticket costs 8 EUR to walk up all 551 steps or 10 EUR to take the elevator up to the terrace, from where you will still need to climb 320 steps.

Pro Tip

St. Peter’s Basilica has a strict dress code for both men and women: no shorts, no skirts above the knee, and no bare shoulders. Avoid wearing clothing with writing or pictures that could risk giving offense. You will not be let in if you don’t come dressed appropriately.

4. Gallery of the Maps in the Vatican Museums

Vatican Museums Rome: A woman posing for a picture in the famous Gallery of the Maps

A gigantic repository of treasures from antiquity and the Renaissance, the Vatican Museums boast one of the world’s greatest art collections.

The evocative Gallery of the Maps (Galleria delle Carte geografiche) in the Vatican Museums is undoubtedly one of the most Instagrammable places in Rome. The 120-meter-long gallery is rightfully considered by many to be the most beautiful in the entire museum complex.

It features forty large-scale illustrative maps of the various regions of Italy. The fresco scenes that adorn the barrel-vaulted ceiling depict a variety of saints, apostles, martyrs, and other figures of Christianity.

Opening Hours: 09:00-18:00, last entry at 16:00 (Monday-Saturday), 09:00-14:00, last entry at 12:30 (last Sunday of every month).

Best time for pics:  The Vatican Museums are generally very crowded, except in winter. In the high season at least there may be a queue to get into the museums, and even getting here before opening may mean you have to stand in line for a while. It’s best to visit on a weekday in the afternoon—the later the better.

Cost: 22 EUR online or 17 EUR if purchased at the museum. I HIGHLY recommend buying a skip-the-line ticket in advance. It’s definitely worth paying a little extra and booking online and thereby jumping the tediously long queues altogether. Plus, you can cancel for free and receive a full refund if your travel plans change.

5. Castel Sant’Angelo

Instagrammable places in Rome: A woman posing for a photo in front of the popular Castel Sant' Angelo

Overlooking the Tiber River near the Vatican, the drum-shaped Castel Sant’ Angelo is one of the most famous Rome Instagram spots. It was built in the 2nd century as a tomb for Emperor Hadrian and was subsequently used as a fortress, a prison, and as private apartments for the popes.

Now a museum, Castel Sant’Angelo is home to some opulent Renaissance salons and its halls display the history of the Roman mausoleum. The castle’s terrace, which offers dazzling views of the Eternal City in every direction, is one of the best viewpoints in Rome. 

You can take various shots from the arched Sant’Angelo Bridge with the castle in the background.

Best time for pics: Morning as the bridge gets pretty crowded during the day

Cost: Free

6. Colosseum

Rome photo spots: A man posing for a photo in front of the Colosseum in the early morning

The Colosseum (Colosseo) is undoubtedly Rome’s most famous and stirring sight. The awe-inspiring oval-shaped amphitheater is the largest ancient amphitheater ever built, and still remains the largest standing amphitheater in the world today.

Dedicated by Emperor Vespasian in A.D. 80, the Colosseum (so-named for a colossal statue of Emperor Nero that once stood on the site) once held an audience of some 50,000-80,000 people and was the scene of countless deadly gladiatorial and wild animal fights. 

Fun Fact

The Roman Colosseum has not always been called “the Colosseum.” The giant arena was originally known as the “Flavian Amphitheater” after the Flavian Dynasty, which commissioned its construction. The name “Colosseum” was only introduced in medieval times and is widely believed by historians to be derived from the “colossal” bronze statue of Emperor Nero that once stood outside of the Amphitheater.

Because the Colosseum is so massive, it gives you plenty of opportunities to take photos from various sides.

The first and most iconic shot of the Colosseum is from the western side and can be taken from Via dei Verbiti. I personally feel this is also one of the best photo locations in Rome.

Rome Instagram: A woman sitting on the parapet wall posing for a picture in front of the Colosseum

The other great shot can be taken from the parapet wall on the northern side of the Colosseum. Just access the stairway next to the Colosseo Metro Station to get up there.

While the enormous scale and masterful architecture of the Colosseum can be admired from the outside, a tour of the interior gives you an opportunity to clamber up the stands to the emperor’s box, and envision the gory games as Nerva, Trajan, and Hadrian saw them.

Best Rome Photo Spots: Woman posing for a picture on the Colosseum arena floor

The Colosseum Arena, which can only be accessed with a special ticket, offers spectacular 360-degree views of the interior and is a fantastic platform to soak up the magic of the building.

Best time for pics: The best time to take photos at the Colosseum is either early in the morning or late in the evening. Heading to the Colosseum very early in the morning means there’ll be fewer people in your photos. 

The Colosseum is absolutely majestic at night. As the yellow lights illuminate the amphitheater within, the Colosseum appears, even more, atmospheric and triumphant.

Cost: Free to shoot pictures from the outside. Access to the interior of the Colosseum is possible only by booking a ticket online. Tickets cost 18 EUR.

Tickets can be booked through the CoopCulture website, the official ticket agency for the Colosseum, but are non-refundable under any circumstances.

I highly recommend paying a small surcharge to purchase a priority ticket that grants fast-track entrance to the Colosseum along with the Roman Forum. Book early as they sell out fast.

Keep in mind that access to the Colosseum arena requires a special ticket. Book early as tickets tend to sell out fast.

For a more immersive experience, consider booking a guided tour of the Colosseum.

7. Arch of Constantine

Rome historic sites: A woman posing for a photo in front of the imposing Arch of Constantine in the early morning

The well-preserved and beautiful Arch of Constantine (Arco di Costantino), which stands between the Colosseum and the Roman Forum, is one of the most scenic photo spots in Rome. Erected in 315, the triumphal arch commemorates Roman Emperor Constantine’s victory over the Roman tyrant Maxentius and is the last great monument of Imperial Rome.

The arch is heavily decorated with sculptures from many earlier buildings, including part of a battle frieze and figures of prisoners from the Forum of Trajan, a series of Hadrianic roundels, and a set of eight Aurelian panels.

Best time for pics: The best time to take photos at the Arch of Constantine is very early in the morning before the city wakes up. 

Cost: Free

8. Roman Forum

Best viewpoints in Rome: A man posing for a photo in the Roman Forum with the Colosseum in the background

Lying adjacent to the Colosseum, the Roman Forum (Foro Romano) is a picturesque and evocative complex of ruined temples, basilicas, and arches. One of the best historic sites in Rome, the Roman Forum was ancient Rome’s birthplace and civic center. 

The Forum’s standing and fallen columns, its triumphal arches, and the remains of its walls provide a gorgeous backdrop to any photo you take there. One of the breathtaking views of the forum can be obtained from the panoramic terrace within the complex. 

Opening Hours: The opening hours of the Roman Forum are the same as the Colosseum which means they vary throughout the year. The Roman Forum is open daily from 09:00–approx one hour before sunset (last admission: 1 hour before closing).

Best time for pics: Anytime during opening hours

Cost: Similar to the entrance to the Colosseum, access to the interior of the Roman Forum is possible only by booking a ticket online. Tickets cost 18 EUR. They can be booked through the CoopCulture website, the official ticket agency for the Colosseum, but are non-refundable under any circumstances.

I highly recommend paying a small surcharge to purchase a priority ticket that grants fast-track entrance to the Roman Forum along with the Colosseum. 

The area of the Roman Forum is quite vast, and given that it’s often crowded, it’s not easy to get your bearings and make sense of the ruins. 

To get the most out of your visit, I strongly recommend considering doing a guided tour of the Roman Forum & Palatine Hill.

9. Sciarra Gallery

Best Rome photo spots: A woman posing for a photo in the colorful Sciarra Gallery (Galleria Sciarra)

Located in the Trevi district, the Sciarra Gallery (Galleria Sciarra) is one of the hidden gems of Rome (by Roman standards). It is a magnificent late-19th-century Art Nouveau-style covered pedestrian courtyard connecting Via Marco Minghetti and Piazza dell’Oratorio.

As you pass through the gallery, you will immediately be struck by its stunning architectural details and glorious glass and iron skylight. Every inch of the four-story walls enclosing the gallery is covered with archaic Roman and Etruscan motifs and glittering liberty-style frescoes celebrating scenes of bourgeois everyday life.

Don’t skip this unexpected Art Nouveau jewel since its unassuming exterior means it often goes overlooked. You will not be disappointed!

Opening Hours: Information about the precise opening hours of the Sciarra Gallery is sketchy but it should be open Monday-Friday from 10:00-20:00.

Best time for pics: Anytime during opening hours

Cost: Free

10. Victor Emmanuel II National Monument

Rome Instagram Places: A man posing for a photo in front of the colossal Victor Emmanuel II Monument (Vittoriano)

Nestled between Capitoline Hill and Piazza Venezia, the Victor Emmanuel II Monument (Vittoriano) aka Altar of the Fatherland is an over-the-top Neoclassical building celebrating the unification of Italy. Because of its shape and bright tone, the edifice has been variously likened to a typewriter and a wedding cake.

Constructed between 1885 and 1935, the massive structure is replete with symbolism that was typical of the era. It is heavily embellished with sculptures, intricate bas-reliefs, swirling motifs, chariots, and carvings.

If what you’re looking for are some amazing views, then take the glass elevator to the uppermost level, which in my opinion provides the best panoramic views of Rome. No other place in Rome is more central, elevated, or visually mesmerizing.

Best time for pics: Early morning would be the best time before the monument opens.

Cost: Free to take pictures from the outside. You can also access the Victor Emmanuel Monument for free by climbing the front stairs to the lower terrace. However, access to the panoramic lift costs 16 EUR.

Opening Hours: The Vittoriano is open daily from 09:30-19:30 (extended hours on Friday and Saturday in the summer). The last access to the panoramic lift is at 18:45.

11. Great Hall in the Colonna Palace

Colonna Palace, Rome: A woman posing for a photo in the spectacular Great Hall of Palazzo Colonna

No list of best Rome Instagram spots would be complete without including the splendid Great Hall (Sala Grande) of the Colonna Palace (Palazzo Colonna).

One of the lesser-known sights in Rome, fans of the 1953 film Roman Holiday might recognize it as the hall where the last sequence of the movie is set.

For anyone interested in seeing the splendor of Baroque Rome, the Colonna Palace is a must-see. The opulent Great Hall has a Versailles-like aura and its lavish gilt work, intricately carved cabinets, glittering Murano chandeliers, sculptures, and elaborate marble floors will make your head twirl in amazement.

In addition, the Great Hall is home to 270 paintings set in golden frames by famous Italian artists. The sweeping ceiling frescoes recount the glories of Marc Antonio Colonna, who captained the Christian fleet to victory over the Turks at the Battle of Lepanto in 1571.

Opening Hours: The Colonna Palace is open every Saturday from 09:00-13:15 (last admission). Entry to the palace is possible on Fridays with a guided tour. You may also book a private tour Monday through Friday.

Best time for pics: Anytime during opening hours

Cost: Tickets to the Colonna Palace don’t come cheap and cost 16.50 EUR for the short tour (gallery + gardens) and 26.50 EUR for the full tour (gallery + Isabelle apartments + gardens). Guided tours cost 31.50 EUR.

Tickets can be purchased on TicketOne.it, the official ticket supplier for the Colonna Palace, or Tiqets. Advance booking is not mandatory but strongly recommended. Book early as tickets sell out fast!  

12. Pantheon

Best photo spots in Rome: A woman posing for a photo in front of the Pantheon at sunrise.

Originally a pagan temple converted into a church in 608 AD, the Pantheon is one of the must-see sights in Rome. It is the best-preserved and most elegant ancient building in the city—if not the world.

With its 16 massive Corinthian columns, the Pantheon’s portico is stately and imposing. However, the most striking aspect of the building is, of course, the vast hemispherical dome.

The Pantheon stands on the lovely Piazza della Rotonda, which is complete with an obelisk and baroque fountain.

Best time for pics: The best time to take photos at the Pantheon is very early in the morning so you can beat the crowds.

Cost: Free

13. Gallery of Mirrors in Doria Pamphilj Gallery

Doria Pamphilj Palace, Rome: A woman posing for a photo in the stunning Hall of Mirrors in Palazzo Doria Pamphilj

Don’t be fooled by the inconspicuous gray exterior of Doria Pamphilj Palace (Palazzo Doria Pamphilj) on the main thoroughfare of Via del Corso as this spectacular family palace provides some of the best glimpses of aristocratic Rome.

The 17th-century palace is home to the Doria Pamphilj Gallery, which houses one of the world’s most important private art collections, containing works by masters such as Bernini, Caravaggio, Raphael, Titian, and Velàzquez.

The grandest room in the Doria Pamphilj Gallery is the 18th-century Gallery of Mirrors (La galleria degli Specchi) – a Versailles in miniature and undoubtedly one of the most worthy Instagram Rome locations.

The light pouring in from the windows on both sides is reflected in the mirrors and gold frames to marvelous effect. 

The gallery is lined with antique sculptures, and the ceiling frescoes depict scenes from the Labors of Hercules. Do not miss out on the Doria Pamphilj Palace as it is a true showstopper and most certainly worth visiting.

Opening Hours: The Doria Pamphilj Gallery is open Monday–Thursday from 09:00–19:00 (last admission at 18:00). From Friday–Sunday, the Doria Pamphilj Gallery is open from 10:00–20:00 (last admission at 19:00). The gallery is closed every third Wednesday of the month.

Best time for pics: Early morning or late afternoon. Try to avoid going on Mondays since it tends to get pretty crowded as most other Rome museums are closed that day.

Cost: 15 EUR. Tickets can be booked online through the official website. However, tickets are non-refundable under any circumstances.

You can also purchase a ticket to Doria Pamphilj Palace on legit third-party resellers such as GetYourGuide or Tiqets. It is more expensive but fully refundable.

14. Orange Garden

Best Rome viewpoints: Man posing for a photo in the lovely Orange Garden on Aventine Hill

Perched atop Aventine Hill, one of the so-called seven hills in Rome, the idyllic Orange Garden (Giardino degli Aranci) is one of the most romantic attractions in Rome and very popular among lovers and newlyweds. 

The tranquil garden is a fantastic place to chill out in the shade under the fragrant orange tree canopies and have a breather in the sunshine! The garden’s terrace offers sweeping views over the Eternal City making it one of the most rewarding Rome photo spots.

Bets Rome Viewpoints: A beautiful woman posing for a photo on the terrace of the Orange Garden on Aventine Hill

Best time for pics: Anytime during the day but especially gorgeous at sunset

Cost: Free

15. Capitol Square

Instagram worthy places in Rome: A woman posing for a picture at the Capitol Square in the early morning

Designed by Michelangelo in the last years of his life, Capitol Square (Piazza del Campidoglio) is one of Rome’s most perfectly proportioned squares. The Cordonata staircase leading up to the square is absolutely magnificent and is topped with Roman statues of Castor and Pollux.

The trapezoidal square is surrounded by three palaces, two of which are home to the Capitoline Museums and the other is now home to Rome’s town hall. The piazza’s centerpiece is a first-rate replica of an immense equestrian statue of Emperor Marcus Aurelius. 

Capitol Square’s egg-shaped pavement with its intriguing stellate pattern of tiles is fascinating.

Best time for pics: Early morning

Cost: Free

16. Galleria Lapidaria in the Capitoline Museums

Woman posing for a photo in the attractively illuminated Galleria Lapidaria the Capitoline Museums in Rome

No visit to Rome would be complete without visiting the Capitoline Museums (Musei Capitolini) which contain some of the most important Roman sculptures in the world. 

The excellent collection is housed in the two palaces (Palazzo dei Conservatori and Palazzo Nuovo) that are connected by the Galleria Lapidaria – an underground passage eight meters beneath Capitol Square. 

The attractively illuminated epigraphic gallery contains 130 inscriptions which are displayed on both sides, arranged thematically to give an insight into the different aspects of public and private life in Ancient Rome.

Opening Hours: The Capitoline Museums are open daily from 09:30-19:30.  

Best time for pics: Early morning or late afternoon. Try to avoid going on Mondays since it tends to get pretty crowded as most other Rome museums are closed that day.

Cost: 16 EUR.

17. Knights of Malta Keyhole

The gorgeous framed view of the dome of St. Peter's Basilica from the Knights of Malta Keyhole

If you like snapping cool perspective shots and then posting them on Instagram, you must visit the Knights of Malta Keyhole on Aventine Hill which reveals one of the most unique and picturesque views of St. Peter’s Basilica.

The Knights of Malta Keyhole is found on a green-colored door of the Priory of the Knights of Malta (Villa del Priorato di Malta), which is Maltese territory.

By peeking through the decorative brass keyhole, a wonderful telescoped view of St. Peter’s Basilica opens up before you, symmetrically framed by the leafy hedges of the Priory garden.

Uniquely, when you peek through the unassuming keyhole, you actually have three countries in your line of sight: Malta, Italy, and Vatican City! However, the view can be notoriously difficult to photograph and you will need to get the exposure right.

Just seeking out the tiny keyhole is an adventure in itself, so don’t miss out on it.

Best time for pics: Anytime during the day except when the sun is behind St. Peter’s Basilica as this will make it really difficult to photograph. 

Cost: Free

18. Via dei Coronari

Best Rome Instagram locations: A woman posing for a photo on the charming Via dei Coronari

One of my favorite Rome Instagram locations is the charming Via dei Coronari. Connecting Piazza dei Coronari and Piazza di Tor Sanguigna in Centro Storico, this alluring little cobbled street was formerly a pilgrim route to the Vatican and gets its name from after the rosary sellers (coronari).

Today, it is the fulcrum of Rome’s antique trade and it’s lined with antiquarians’ shops and intersected by dozens of quaint alleys. The street still has many original buildings from the 15th and 16th centuries.

Instagrammable places in Rome: Woman posing for a photo on a flight of stairs on the famous Via dei Coronari

One of the best places to take a cute Instagram photo on Via dei Coronari is on the flight of stairs, adjacent to Gelateria del Teatro, one of the best gelato shops in Rome. Take a break from taking photographs and chill with some delicious gelato.

Best time for pics: Anytime during the day but you’ll encounter fewer people in the early morning

Cost: Free

19. Janiculum Hill

Best Rome viewpoints: A man posing for a photo on Janiculum Hill (Gianicolo) in the evening

The tree-lined Janiculum Hill (Gianicolo) is a long ridge separating Trastevere from the Vatican which not only is perfect for a lovers’ stroll but also offers some of the best views of Rome

Though Janiculum Hill is not considered one of the “Seven Hills” of Rome, it is the second tallest hill in Rome after Monte Mario and certainly one of the most visited.  

The Eternal City is laid out at your feet from this lover’s lane perch across the Tiber. In our opinion, the most beautiful sunset in Rome can be observed from here as the spectacular shafts of light and color paint dramatic ensembles that resemble the frenzied canvases of a spaced-out Impressionist. 

Best time for pics: Anytime during the day but especially gorgeous at sunset

Cost: Free

20. Loggia of Cupid and Psyche in the Villa Farnesina

Best Rome Instagram Locations: A woman posing for a photo in the Loggia of Cupid and Psyche of the Villa Farnesina

The Villa Farnesina is one of Rome’s finest examples of Renaissance architecture and art and was purpose-built for a very wealthy Sienese banker, Agostino Chigi, in the 16th century. It is set in the midst of a beautiful garden of bergamot trees, cedars, cypresses, and evergreens.

While the villa features a series of beautiful frescoes, including Raphael’s sensual Triumph of Galatea, the Loggia of Cupid and Psyche is a notable highlight.

The loggia’s vault ceiling is decorated with animated frescoes, including two central fictive tapestries of the ceiling depicting the Council of the Gods, and the Marriage of Cupid and Psyche, which will take your breath away.

The rest of the vault is bursting with dazzling scenes featuring flora, fauna, and half-clothed divinities. If you appreciate art and are looking for Instagrammable places in Rome, don’t skip Villa Farnesina!

Opening Hours: Villa Farnesina is open Monday-Saturday from 9:00-14:00 (last admission at 13:15). It is also open every second Sunday of the month from 09:00-17:00 (last admission at 16:15).

Best time for pics: Anytime during opening hours

Cost: 16 EUR

21. Pincio Terrace

Best Rome photo spots: A woman posing for a photo at the Pincio Terrace on a sunny afternoon

The hanging Pincio Terrace (Terrazza del Pincio) is one of the best photo spots in Rome for creating sterling content for social media.

From here you not only get a stunning birds-eye perspective of the attractive Piazza del Popolo below, but you can also admire the thick forest of domes, roofs, and spires of Rome as they spill westwards towards the Tiber. 

The sight of St. Peter’s Basilica looking impossibly large in the distance from across the city framed by the boughs of soaring Roman pines is the stuff that dreams are made of.

Best time for pics: Anytime during the day but especially gorgeous at sunset

Cost: Free

22. Via Margutta

Instagram Rome: A beautiful woman posing for a photo on the charming Via Margutta

Via Margutta is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful streets in Rome, a narrow, cobblestone lane stretching for a little over three blocks through some of the most breathtaking vine-covered edifices in the Eternal City.

The charming street is a welcome oasis of tranquility set between the teeming Spanish Steps and the Piazza del Popolo.

Via Margutta has a long and storied history, whereby it has been home to some of the city’s finest artists, craftsmen, musicians, stables, and workshops.

Luminaries such as Claude Debussy, Franz Liszt, Pablo Picasso, Giacomo Puccini, Federico Fellini, Giorgio di Chirico, Anna Magnani, and Truman Capote are all said to have either resided or worked on Via Margutta.

Following the premiere of Roman Holiday starring Audrey Hepburn and Gregory Peck in 1953, the street found worldwide fame as it was the street that Peck’s character lived on in the film.

Today, the fashionable Via Margutta is still home to some of Rome’s most affluent people and is mainly occupied by upmarket art ateliers, antique shops, and restaurants.

When you visit this street, you’ll find an array of photo opportunities. Whether you’re trying to recreate shots from Roman Holiday or create a new perspective on it, the possibilities are endless.

Best time for pics: Anytime during the day

Cost: Free

23. Ponte Umberto I

Best Rome photo spots: A couple posing for a photo on the Tiber riverbank on a sunny afternoon

Though there are many bridges that connect the banks of the Tiber, the 19th-century Ponte Umberto I is easily one of the most impressive. 

Take the stairs from the bridge down to the riverbank from where you’ll be able to capture a mesmerizing photo of St. Peter’s Basilica in the entire city, framed by the soaring trees that flank the river and the statue-lined Ponte Sant’Angelo.

The peaceful setting and the golden reflection in the waters always look ethereal.

Best time for pics: Anytime during the day but especially beautiful at sunset

Cost: Free

24. Trastevere

Rome Instagram locations: A woman posing for a photo on a quiet cobblestone alley in Trastevere

Rounding up our list of best Rome Instagram spots is the quaint neighborhood of Trastevere.

Separated from the heart of ancient Rome by the River Tiber, Trastevere (the name means literally “across the Tiber”) was for centuries heavily populated by immigrants, and this uniqueness and separation resulted in the development of its own customs, and traditions.

Trastevere is definitely worth visiting and its narrow cobblestone streets, grungy vibe, centuries-old piazzas, ivy-clad terracotta-hued buildings, and balconies enlivened with geraniums make it a street photographer’s delight.

Some of the prettiest alleys can be found in the vicinity of the Basilica of Our Lady in Trastevere.

Best Rome Instagram spots: A woman posing for a photo on a quiet cobblestone alley in Trastevere

Just stroll around and snap away. It’s impossible to take a bad photo here.

Best time for pics: Anytime during the day but you’ll encounter fewer people in the early morning

Cost: Free

Other Photo Spots in Rome

The places we have mentioned on our list are some of the most popular Instagram spots in Rome. However, given that Rome is so big and beautiful, you will surely stumble across more gorgeous photography locations.

Just stroll around the many tiny alleys of Rome and take shots wherever you like.

Practical Information Regarding the Best Instagrammable Places in Rome

1. Getting Around: Nearly all the attractions we’ve included in our list of best Rome Instagram locations are within reasonable walking distance of each other. 

While walking is definitely the best way to get around Rome, you should use Rome’s efficient public transport system to provide some relief for your feet and save time. Using public transport is also a scenic way to get from one side of the city to another. 

To find out more about using public transport in Rome, check out our in-depth guide on how to get around Rome.

2. Expect to encounter scaffolding: Restoration work is always taking place somewhere in Rome, and there is rarely any indication before you go in as to how much of the building is under wraps. 

It’s impossible to predict which buildings or sites will be undergoing restoration in the near future so prepare to be disappointed – you are almost certain to come across scaffolding and barriers at some point.

3. Pack a pair of comfortable shoes: If you’re intending to primarily get around Rome on foot, it pays to have appropriate footwear. Stick with a comfortable pair of flat shoes rather than heels to avoid unnecessary purple toes and white blisters.

4. Keep a close eye on your belongings: Be aware of petty crime like pickpocketing, especially at railway stations, markets, and crowded sites. 

On public transport, particularly the tourist routes, hold your handbag or rucksack in front of you and be extra vigilant over your belongings when people are jostling to get on board.

Map of the Best Rome Instagram Spots

We’ve created a custom map that contains all the best Rome Instagram spots with their exact location so as to ensure you’re not missing out on anything.

Further Reading For Your Rome Visit

That summarizes our definitive guide to the best Instagram spots in Rome. However, we reckon you’ll find the following resources useful for planning your trip to Rome!

More Information About Italy

Venice: Check out the 19 best Venice Instagram spots!

Venice: Find out the 30 best things to do in Venice!

Venice: Check out the 30+ must-see sights along the Grand Canal in Venice!

Trieste: Discover the 18 best things to do in Trieste!

Naples: Uncover how to spend the perfect 24 hours in Naples!

Naples: Check out the 12 best pizzerias in Naples!

Caserta: Read our comprehensive guide to visiting the Caserta Royal Palace!

Pompeii: Find out everything you need to know about visiting Pompeii!

Herculaneum: Check out our definitive guide to visiting Herculaneum!


Do you agree with our list? What are some of your favorite Instagram spots and viewpoints in Rome? Share your thoughts with us in the comments below!

About Mihir

Hello there, fellow globetrotters! I’m Mihir, a passionate travel blogger with an insatiable wanderlust. My journey across the world is fueled by curiosity and a hunger for unique experiences. As a travel writer, photographer, and adventurer, I’ve explored more than 35 countries, aiming to provide readers with a distinctive glimpse of our diverse world. Join me as I blend captivating storytelling with stunning visuals, guiding you through hidden gems and cultural treasures. Besides traveling, my other loves are my beloved cats, architecture, art, craft beer, classic movies, history, and Australian Rules Football (Go Dons!).

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