The Piazza di Spagna (or Spanish Steps) is home to a number of architectural masterpieces, in a setting of warm tones that give way to a definite sense of grandeur. From Via dei Condotti, Rome's legendary shopping street with its prestigious boutiques, the view of the fountain, staircases and church forms the perfect angle for a postcard photo!
For sightseeing, strolling, toasting or culture, Rome's many squares are the ideal spot, whatever your tastes. Religious, historic, chic or festive, the atmosphere is all different and the change of scenery is constant. Between the great Piazza Navona, the impressive Piazza di Spagna, the religious Piazza San Pietro and the grandiose Piazza del Popolo, the choice is vast and we are tempted to explore all these marvels.
Whether you discover them by chance or by following a well-defined itinerary, the fountains, statues and monuments that adorn the spaces are full of surprises. Let's make the most of the pretty terraces and culinary delights set up in the four corners of the esplanades to slip into the shoes of a Roman for a moment. If you're short of time, here's our selection of the most beautiful squares in Rome, not to be missed on your trip!
The chicest: Piazza di Spagna
At the heart of the square, the Barcaccia fountain, with its effect of a boat taking on water, announces the Baroque style of the area. We then climb the famous steps leading up to the church of the Trinité des Monts, before turning back to enjoy the panoramic view over the city. Let's take some time to stroll around one of Rome's most famous squares to discover all its marvels before continuing the walk towards other horizons.
The Inn at the Spanish Steps
Located in a building in Via CondottiThe liveliest: Piazza Navona
One of the most popular public spaces in the Eternal City is the magnificent Piazza Navona. It is lined with restaurants, ice-cream parlours, souvenir shops and the Museo di Roma, in the Renaissance Palazzo Braschi.
At the centre of the square, Bernini's Fontana dei Quattro Fiumi is adorned with sculpted figures representing the four great rivers of the world and a 16-metre-high obelisk. Originally intended as a stadium, this long site is one of the locals' favourite spots! Just a stone's throw away, it's impossible to resist the temptation of one of the city's best tiramisu restaurants, Two Sizes.
Address: Via del Governo Vecchio, 88, 00186 Roma RM, ItalyOpening hours: 11am - 10pm except Mondays
Navona Theatre Hotel
Hotel located in the centre of RomeThe most harmonious: Piazza del Popolo
Recognisable at first glance by its imposing obelisk and perfect oval shape, the Piazza del Popolo is a must-see in the north of the historic centre. Surrounded by the Porta del Popolo, several churches and a number of palaces, this space decorated with an Egyptian work is sure to surprise curious visitors.
La Vita è un mozzico is the ideal place to satisfy a craving while enjoying the symmetrical and historic setting of the Piazza del Popolo. Paninis and sandwiches are prepared before our very eyes, with a particularly high quality charcuterie, the composition of which is totally customisable!
Address: Via Angelo Brunetti, 4, 00186 Roma RM, Italy
Opening times: 08:00 - 18:00 Monday to Friday / 08:00 - 16:00 Saturday
Tridente Suites
Located in the heart of the cityThe most monumental: Piazza Venezia
Nicknamed the Typewriter, Piazza Venezia is right in the heart of Rome, making it one of the symbols of the historic centre. Marked by the imposing monument dedicated to Victor Emmanuel II, it is a strategic crossroads with many remarkable buildings!
Statues, sculptures, fountains and columns decorate the esplanade, which honours the king who was loved by his homeland. Climbing the steps of the monument offers a breathtaking view of the site and the long Via del Corso, which is sure to delight shopping enthusiasts!
Hotel Trecento
Hotel in the heart of RomeThe most historic: Piazza della Rotonda
In front of the spectacular Pantheon, Piazza della Rotonda offers a view of the temple housing the tombs of Raffaello Sanzio, Giovanni da Udine and Arcangelo Corelli. The cobbled piazza is also home to a fountain, again topped by an obelisk, and is particularly attractive at night, when the monument is illuminated.
Before or after taking the time to visit the mythical building, let's settle down in a Roman institution: Armando al Pantheon. A 100% Italian menu and cuisine of undeniable savoir-faire promise an enchanting culinary interlude between visits to all those delightful squares.
Address: Salita de' Crescenzi, 31, 00186 Roma RM, Italy
Times: 12.30 - 15.00 / 19.00 - 23.00 except Sundays