Roman prisoners fought lions and gladiators fought each other in this 80,000-capacity arena built in 72 A.D. Fodor's calls it: "The most spectacular extant edifice of ancient Rome."
This political, religious and commercial center, constructed between 500 B.C. and 400 A.D., was the heart of ancient Rome.
The domed Pantheon is "one of the world's most sublime architectural creations" according to Lonely Planet.
The independent Vatican City is home to the stunning Sistine Chapel and St. Peter's Basilica, as well as top-notch museums.
Chariot races were once held in Piazza Navona, a plaza that Frommer's calls "the most beautiful square in all of Rome." The baroque staircase known as the Spanish Steps is where tourists and locals meet to hang out, people-watch or shop at designer boutiques.
The Palazzo dei Conservatori and Palazzo Massimo alle Terme display some of Rome's best ancient sculpture and art, while Renaissance buffs will love the Museo e Galleria Borghese.
