Where to Find the Best Free Panaromic Views of Rome #LikeaLocal
With a city steeped in history, it's worth taking a couple of hours sitting and simply admiring the beautiful panoramic views of Rome. Here are a few viewing points that are not extremely packed with fellow tourists recommended by Romans.
1. Giardino Degli Aranci
This Orange Garden is located on the Aventine hill and is, as it’s namesake, lined with rows of orange trees. It’s best to come here during the spring or summer time, and you could see locals laying out on the grass or having a picnic. The first thing locals tell me about it is that it’s a romantic place to go. At the very end of the park is a viewing point to one of the best sunsets in Rome, and the Altar of the Fatherland is prominently seen in this panoramic view. The Aventine Hill itself is really peaceful and has a church where all the priests who are studying walk in rows outside.
2. Aventine Peephole
This peephole with the Italian name of Spioncino del Giardino degli Ordine dei Cavalieri di Malta is not a big secret anymore because now there’s a bit of a line of tourists queuing up to take a peek in the peephole of a green door. But what’s so special? Looking through one keyhole, you could see two nation-states and one country: the Sovereign Military Order of Malta (of the famous Knights of Malta), the Vatican, and of course Rome itself. You also have a perfect view of the dome of St. Peter’s. This is not a panoramic view but if you’re going to Giardino Degli Aranci, might as well peep through this keyhole.
3. Il Pincio at Villa Borghese
Villa Borghese is an 80 hectare park beside Piazza del Popolo. Enjoy a beautiful view from Il Pincio, which is accessible from the stairs in Piazza del Popolo. Villa Borghese also has many museums and other attractions. You could spend hours just chilling at the bench admiring the views or head to one of the small outdoor restaurants and get yourself a glass or two of prosecco.
4. Gianicolo Hill
Also called The Janiculum, which is its English name, this hill is the second tallest in Rome and is near St. Peter’s church. You could see central Rome from here and see the church of San Pietro in Montorio, the Tempietto shrine, and many domes and bell towers. On the hill itself lie Fontana dell’Acqua Paola, which is a baroque fountain and multiple foreign research institutions and universities. But head’s up: the local who recommended me said that going up the hill is a bit tiring, but go during sunset or even night time if you decide to.
5. La Rinascente Department Store Rooftop Terrace
Go to the one at the intersection between Via del Tritone and Via dei Due Macelli, and after admiring all the expensive luxury items, go up to the last floor. There’s a huge terrace with a pricey bar. But you don’t have to order anything to admire the view! You have a nice panorama of the city and see the beautiful rooftops.