Pantheon: reviews, price and practical tips

+26
recs
4/5 4 reviews
Piazza della Rotonda, 00186 Rome, Italy
Piazza della Rotonda, 00186 Rome, Italy
Skip-the-line ticket from $5.70*
Booking recommended
Book now
Panthéon de Rome

Visiting the Pantheon in Rome: a millennium-old architectural masterpiece

Located right in the center of the historical district, the Pantheon in Rome is one of the best-preserved ancient monuments on the planet. Built under Emperor Hadrien in the 2nd century, it impresses visitors with its sheer scale and remarkable engineering. A visit is essential to admire its massive dome and experience its unique atmosphere firsthand.

A monumental dome and a fascinating oculus

The Pantheon is best known for its dome measuring 43.3 meters in diameter, which was a genuine technical feat for its time. Its secret lies in the use of increasingly lightweight materials as builders climbed toward the top. The oculus central, measuring 9 meters wide, lets in natural light that creates a striking ambiance inside. When it rains, water drains away quietly thanks to an ingenious drainage system built right into the floor.

A temple turned church and burial site

Originally dedicated to the Roman gods, the Pantheon was transformed into a Christian church in the 7th century, which explains why it remains in such pristine condition today. Today, it holds several notable tombs, including that of the painter Raphaël and multiple kings of Italy. The simplicity of the interior contrasts sharply with the exterior grandeur, delivering a solemn and timeless atmosphere.

A lively square and a neighborhood to explore

The Pantheon sits right on the Piazza della Rotonda, a charming plaza lined with outdoor cafes and restaurants. It is the ideal spot to grab a coffee and unwind after your tour. Just a short walk away, you will find the church San Luigi dei Francesi, famous for its Caravaggio masterpieces, and the fontaine de Trevi, which you can reach on foot in under ten minutes.

Skip-the-line ticket from $5.70*Booking recommended
Check availability

Opening hours

Monday 09:00-19:00
Tuesday 09:00-19:00
Wednesday 09:00-19:00
Thursday 09:00-19:00
Friday 09:00-19:00
Saturday 09:00-19:00
Sunday 09:00-18:00

Holidays feature varying hours. Closed on January 1, August 15, and December 25.

Hours are indicative and subject to change

*Information subject to change

Reviews of the Pantheon

Summary of 4 reviews
4/5
Average rating
+26 recs +26 -0 Score weighted by contributor expertise level: a recommendation from a level 3 member counts as 3.
Total recommendations

Ratings by visit type

With family
3.3
As a couple
4
With friends
4

Avygeo ranking

#87
in the world
#82
in Europe
#9
in Italy
#8
in Rome

Monumental

Superb Roman Pantheon, it is above all where several Roman kings are laid to rest.
Near the Trevi Fountain, right in the historic and tourist heart, this building is worth the trip.

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Stunning but watch out for the wait

Seeing such perfectly preserved monuments at a turn in the street is what makes Rome so charming. Unfortunately, the wait to visit this one can be quite long. If possible, visit during the off-season, or book your ticket since it seems that is possible now.

That said, it is worth the trip. It is incredible to see an ancient monument so well preserved! I loved the dome and spent a lot of time looking at it from every angle!

12
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A phenomenal dome

One of the most beautiful monuments in Rome! Unlike the buildings in the Forum, the Pantheon is amazing because it is so well preserved. Its structure and its exceptional massive pediment seem almost intact, and at night, they give the Piazza della Rotonda a magical atmosphere. Despite a long and inevitable line to get in, the Pantheon's very surprising cylindrical interior is really worth a look. The immense dome is impressive for both its technical and aesthetic qualities.

12
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Interesting but a long wait

The Pantheon is a pretty impressive monument, both outside and inside. Visiting is free, which attracts a huge crowd. It is not possible to book in advance. You should therefore expect to wait in a long line to get inside. If you are short on time, I suggest you skip it.

11
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