Beyond the panoramic terraces and the dome of St Peter's, Rome hides terraces and viewpoints little known to tourists that offer breathtaking views over the city.
Rome from above: the secret rooftops and viewpoints
Rome seen from above is a revelation: domes, bell towers and Mediterranean pines chase one another to the horizon. While the dome of St Peter's and the Janiculum are the best-known spots, the city hides secret terraces that only Romans know.
Altare della Patria (Vittoriano)
The top terrace of the Vittoriano - which Romans affectionately call "the wedding cake" - offers perhaps the most complete view over Rome. The panoramic lift (7 euro) takes you to the upper terrace at 70 metres, with a 360-degree view ranging from the Colosseum to the Vatican, from the Imperial Forums to the Janiculum.
Pro: Open until 19:30, great for sunset.
Pincio and the Janiculum Terrace
The Pincio, with its terrace overlooking Piazza del Popolo, is free and reachable on foot from the gardens of Villa Borghese. The Janiculum - the hill across the Tiber - offers the classic "postcard" view of Rome: from the viewpoint you can see the Pantheon, the Vittoriano and the domes of dozens of churches.
Secret: At the Janiculum at exactly noon the traditional cannon shot is fired (since 1904) to mark midday. A ritual Romans never miss.
The Terrace of the Boscolo Exedra Hotel
Little known to tourists, the rooftop bar of the Boscolo Exedra hotel (Piazza della Repubblica) offers a masterful view of the dome of Santa Maria degli Angeli, the Fountain of the Naiads and the Termini district. The cocktail is not cheap, but the view is worth every cent.
Castel Sant'Angelo
The top terrace of Castel Sant'Angelo (30 metres) is one of the most iconic viewpoints. Hadrian's 2nd-century mausoleum, converted into a papal fortress in the Middle Ages, offers spectacular views over the Tiber, St Peter's and the glimpses of Trastevere.