Rome, Elevated: Vantage Points That Changed the Way I See the City

I’ve been to Rome over 30 times—and I don’t regret a single trip. Each visit has taught me something new, not just about photography, but about the city itself. Early on, I realized that snapping photos was great, but truly paying attention—listening, learning, and absorbing the stories behind the sights—made the experience even richer. 

When I was working for my last company, I had the opportunity to join guided tours for free. At first, I was just tagging along with my camera, but then I started really listening to the art historians, architects, and history buffs leading the tours. That shift made all the difference. I could take photos anytime—but learning the layers of history while standing in front of the Colosseum or tucked into a hidden piazza? That’s irreplaceable.

If you visit Rome without a guide, especially for places like the Colosseum, you’re missing out. The depth of stories, facts, and context will change the way you see and photograph everything. So now, I’m going to open up my little secret book and gift you two hidden vantage points in Rome that most tourists—and even some locals—completely miss.

Capitoline Hill—Overlooking the Heart of Ancient Rome

When I first set out to photograph the Roman Forum, I wasn’t just looking for the usual ground-level shots. I wanted that “hero” perspective—an overlook that could capture the full scale and atmosphere of the ruins. But getting that view took some wandering.

Since the Forum itself is relatively flat and surrounded by tall iron fences, I began walking the perimeter, tracing the outer edge in search of a better vantage point. Eventually, that path took me past Circus Maximus, which I didn’t even realize was right there. Circus Maximus was ancient Rome’s largest chariot racing stadium and one of the oldest public spaces in the city. 

After that,  the road began to climb—a narrow stretch that wound uphill so I followed it without much of a plan. After a pretty long incline, I arrived at a small guard station and what appeared to be a private road, but it had a public sidewalk so I kept ascending.

Unknowingly, I was making my way toward the back entrance to Capitoline Hill—and that’s where I finally found the overlook I had been hoping for. At the top, there’s a low wall where you can sit and take it all in. I lingered there, soaking up the quiet atmosphere and the sweeping view of the Roman Forum below. From that spot, you can see the ruins stretch to the Colosseum in the distance.

It’s become a ritual for me now—I go back every time I’m in Rome, and I’ve taken everyone I know there too. Somehow, this spot remains under the radar, which only adds to its magic, especially for photographers and history lovers. From this angle, you can also perfectly capture the Temple of Saturn, one of the oldest sacred sites in Rome. If you go early in the morning or around golden hour, the light hits the ruins just right—soft and cinematic, with long shadows that bring the history to life.

Gianicolo Hill – The Quiet Summit for Skyline Shots

The second overlook was something I found completely by accident, during a separate visit. I was exploring Trastevere, one of my favorite neighborhoods in Rome—full of artists, narrow cobbled streets, and buildings covered in creeping vines. While wandering, I noticed a steep road leading up a hill behind the neighborhood and followed it out of curiosity.

That road led me to Piazza Giuseppe Garibaldi, an incredible panoramic spot on top of Gianicolo Hill. From one side, you can see all of Rome stretched out in front of you, and from the other, you get a view of St. Peter’s Basilica peeking above the trees in the distance. It’s one of my favorite spots to capture the rooftops of Rome with the backdrop of the mountains of Lazio.

Gianicolo Hill is also known as Janiculum Hill and is one of the highest and most breathtaking vantage points in Rome. It’s a bit of a hike uphill to get there, which is probably why it remains off the beaten path for photography in Rome. If you want to ask for directions, it’s officially called Piazzale Giuseppe Garibaldi and would take about 25 minutes to walk from the Trastevere neighborhood. 

It may seem like a long walk, but you’ll be rewarded with sweeping, panoramic views of the city. From above, you start to understand the sheer scale and planning of ancient Rome—how temples, forums, and roads were intentionally placed to impress and influence. It’s absolutely worth the climb and on clear days because you can even capture the snow-capped mountains in the distance. Just remember to pack your comfortable hiking shoes so you can ascend the steep hill. Alternatively, if you have mobility issues you can still enjoy this view by grabbing a bus or a taxi.

Once I was up there, I discovered a pedestrian staircase that led back down the hill in a more direct route, which was perfect for getting back into the city faster.

Hey! Rome Looks Different From Up Here

Both of these overlooks came from the same instinct: wanting a better perspective of what I was seeing. When I’m surrounded by historic architecture or ruins, I always ask myself—what does this look like from above? What would it feel like to see the rooftops, and the layout, the lines of the city from a different angle?

That question has led me to some of my favorite shots and experiences—not just because they made great photos, but because they shifted how I saw the city itself. These hidden heights offer more than just views; they offer context, calm, and a kind of quiet reverence that’s hard to find at street level.

So if you’re planning a trip to Rome, don’t just follow the crowds. Take a detour. Walk uphill. Get a little lost. The best views aren’t always marked on the map—but they might just become the most memorable part of your trip.