During your wanderings in Rome, you will probably come across the Spanish Steps, or Scalinata di Spagna, one of the largest tourist attractions north of the historic center of Rome. Built by the French in the 1720s as a gift to Rome, the majestic open-air staircase links Piazza di Spagna, named for the presence of the Spanish embassy, with the Trinità dei Monti church, which dominates at the top of the steps. The Spanish Steps are tremendously photogenic, especially in spring when they are covered in pots of blooming azaleas.
The only thing you have to do in the Plaza de España is climb to the top. There are 138 stairs, but each step is shallow, and the climb is divided by terraces where you can stop and catch your breath. Once you reach the top, relax and enjoy the view of the steps that extend below you, as well as the rooftops and narrow streets of Rome. If the church is open and mass isn’t being celebrated, you can come in and take a look, as it offers a nice, quiet respite from the crowds outside.
Visit Keats-Shelley’s house
Direction
Piazza di Spagna, 26, 00187 Rome RM, ItalyGet directions
Telephone
+39 06 678 4235
Web
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Located at the bottom right of the Spanish Steps, this historic house and museum is dedicated to English Romantic poets, several of whom lived or frequented Rome in the early 19th century. John Keats died in this house in 1821 when he was only 25 years old. Today, his room is preserved as it was at his death.
Walk in the Villa Borghese park
Direction
Piazzale Napoleone I, 00197 Rome RM, ItalyGet directions
Telephone
+39 06 0608
Web
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Once a playground for the Popes, this vast park contains walking trails, a zoo, a carousel, a small lake with boat rentals, coffee shops, pony rides, and even a small movie theater. It is also home to two of the best art museums in Rome, the Borghese Gallery and the National Etruscan Museum in Villa Giulia. The former is a stellar collection of primarily Renaissance and Baroque art, while the latter contains thousands of artifacts from pre-Roman Etruscan culture. You need a reservation to visit Galleria Borghese.
Pay your respects at the Capuchin Crypt
One of the most unusual places in Rome, the Museum and Crypt of the Capuchin Friars contains the skulls and bones of almost 4,000 Capuchin friars. They are artistically displayed, there are even chandeliers made from bones, but most of all, this is a place of worship and reflection. If you are squeamish about death, it is not for you, nor is it suitable for young children. It is located about a 10-minute walk from Plaza de España.
Pop Up to Piazza del Popolo
Direction
Piazza del Popolo, Rome RM, ItalyGet directions
The vast open space of Piazza del Popolo, one of the largest squares in Rome, offers plenty of room to breathe after the dense crowds in the Spanish Steps. The obelisk in the middle of the square was sacked from Egypt by Emperor Augustus in AD 10. On the north side of the square, the Church of Santa Maria del Popolo contains works by Raphael, Caravaggio, Bernini, and other Italian masters.
Do some fancy shopping
Direction
Palazzo Fendi, Largo Carlo Goldoni, 420, 00187 Rome RM, ItalyGet directions
Telephone
+39 06 3345 0896
Web
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Many of Rome’s most unique temples for haute couture are found on the streets around the Spanish Steps, including Fendi, Bulgari (which paid for a recent Spanish Steps renovation) and Valentino, which has its closest shops. . Other iconic names in Italian fashion, such as Prada, Gucci and Armani, are in sight on the steps or not far away, on Via dei Condotti, vias Borgongona and Frattini, and Via delle Carrozze.
Spend the night
Direction
Via dei Condotti, 85, 00187 Rome RM, ItalyGet directions
Telephone
+39 06 6992 5657
Web
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With easy access to the metro, buses and the rest of the city, the area around the Spanish Steps is one of the best places to stay in Rome. Although the area is not known for its budget properties, it is home to some of the most luxurious hotels in Rome. The Inn at the Spanish Steps and trendy Deko Rome are two favorites. For something more affordable, try Casa Howard or the modest Hotel Panda.
Hike to the mausoleum of Augustus
Take a short walk, less than a mile, and visit (exterior only currently) the Mausoleum of Augustus, a large tomb built by the Roman Emperor Augustus in 28 BC. C. to honor his own reign. You’ll find the tomb, where Augustus and his wife Livia are said to have been buried, on the western edge of Campo Marzio or Campo de Marte. Originally there were obelisks found at the entrance and now those were moved to other Roman squares.
Visit el Ara Pacis
Also in Campo Marzo, you will find the Ara Pacis Augustae, an altar dedicated to Pax, the Roman goddess of peace. The monument was built to celebrate the return of Augustus in 13 BC. C. of his campaigns in Spain and Gaul. It was originally built near the Tiber River, but it was flooded and had to be moved and reassembled in its current location, the Museum of the Ara Pacis.
Refresh with some English tea
Babbington’s English Tea Room is ideal for a mid-afternoon pick-up after walking up the Plaza de España and shopping in the boutiques. Located at 23 Piazza di Spagna, the tea room offers sandwiches, salads, pastries, coffee and of course tea. The restaurant has been serving tea since 1893 and now after enjoying it, you can purchase international teas, unique blends, and household items from their shop.
Practical information
There’s a metro station, Spagna, at the base of the Spanish Steps, or it’s about a 20-minute walk from Piazza Venezia. There is a taxi rank available in Piazza Mignanelli, just south of Piazza di Spagna.
Although you will see people sitting in the Plaza de España, prolonged parking on the stairs, including lunch, is prohibited.
Due to the dense crowds in the Plaza de España, beware of pickpockets. Keep your bag closed and close to your body, and cameras and cell phones safely stowed away when not in use.
