best museums Rome

The 7 Must-See Museums In Rome

When travelling to Rome, the sheer amount of history can be a bit overwhelming. Having been around for several millennia, it is the perfect city for museum lovers. From world-renowned Sistine Chapel to the Capitoline Museums in Rome on top of Capitoline Hill, there is much to be explored. Here’s our roundup of museums that you can’t miss while in The Eternal City.

Must-See Museums In Rome

1. The Capitoline Museums

Firstly and most importantly are the Capitoline Museums. In its heyday, Capitoline Hill was the political and economic centre of Rome. Thousands of years later, it is fittingly home to some of Rome’s best sculptures, paintings and other works. You can’t miss the famous Capitoline Wolf, the Flying Gaul and Colossus of Constantine.

2. The Vatican Museums

Home to the famous riches of the Catholic Church, The Vatican Museums are a must when visiting Rome. Gawk at the over 20,000 treasures collected by popes through the centuries. Afterwards, check The Creation of Adam off your bucket list in the Sistine Chapel while enjoying its heavy symbolism.  After that, wander through magnificent Peter’s Basilica.

3. Palazzo Massimo

Four floors of classical and ancient art make up this must-see museum. Palazzo Massimo is part of the famous National Roman Museum. Here you can expect to find jaw-dropping frescoes and Roman marble sculptures. While there, be sure to check out the 2nd-century bronze excavation, Boxer at Rest.

4. Palazzo Doria Pamphilij

Next up is one of Rome’s best-kept secrets, Palazzo Doria Pamphilj. Home to one of the cities largest private art collections, it includes work by Caravaggio, Titian and even Raphael. Here you can find Diego Velazquez’s Portrait of Innocent X. Critics around the world consider it to be the finest portrait ever created.

image: Travel Notes

5. Galleria Borghese

Set in stunning Villa Borghese Park, Galleria Borghese is the stuff of legends to lovers of the Renaissance and Baroque period. Caravaggio’s David With The Head Of Goliath, Titan’s Sacred Love and Profane along with Raphael’s Young Woman With A Unicorn are our favourites.
best museums Rome

6. Galleria Nazionale d’Arte Moderna

After you’ve worn yourself out with all of Rome’s ancient works, head to GNAM. Home to Italy’s most extensive collection of 19th-20th century art, it’s a perfect choice for a contemporary afternoon in Rome. Stroll through the likes of Giacomo Balla, Antonio Canova and Amedeo Modigliani and bear witness to the evolution of Italian art.
best museums Rome

7. Castel Sant’Angelo

Last but not least, head to Rome’s famous castle. Home to the tomb of Emperor Hadrian, Castel D’Angelo is a mausoleum, castle and museum all in one. Not far from the Vatican, it’s in an excellent location for afternoon exploration in one of Rome’s most exciting neighbourhoods. With four main sections, it’s simple to navigate. Finally, be sure to head up to the terrace for unforgettable views over Rome.

best museums Rome

Melanie Hamilton

Melanie is an avid traveller with a passion for history and global foods. She is currently based in Tbilisi, Georgia where most of her time is occupied with qvevri wine and Soviet history. Having do-si-do'd her way across Europe and Latin America, she's enjoyed some of the world's most exciting places firsthand and can't wait to tell you about them.

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