Piazza Venezia: reviews and practical tips

+24
recos
4.4/5 5 reviews
Piazza Venezia, 00186 Rome, Italy
Piazza Venezia, 00186 Rome, Italy
Piazza Venezia de Rome
La classe à l'italienne
Le Vittoriano

Piazza Venezia at a glance

Located in the historic center of Rome, Piazza Venezia serves as a massive, high-traffic intersection where three of the capital's major avenues converge. This majestic square is framed by iconic landmarks like the Palazzo Venezia, also known as the Palazzo Barbo, the unmissable Vittoriano, and the charming basilica of Santa Maria in Aracoeli (Saint Mary of the Altar of Heaven).

Start with the structure locals affectionately call the typewriter, the dentures, or the wedding cake. It is an imposing tribute to Victor Emmanuel II, the first king of Italy following the nation's 1861 unification. Construction began in 1885 and spanned nearly three decades, drawing inspiration from the Altar of Pergamon now housed in a Berlin museum. Its statues represent the unity of Italy's 16 regions. If you are a history buff, these events are detailed at the Risorgimento (Italian Unification) historical museum located inside the building, which also houses the National Museum of the Italian Emigration and the Naval Museum. Between the two fountains, representing the Adriatic and Tyrrhenian seas, lies the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. Take the panoramic elevators to the roof for a 360-degree view of the city.

If your schedule allows, visit the Palazzo Venezia. It served as a papal residence and later as the embassy for the Serenissima (Republic of Venice) before becoming the headquarters for Mussolini. Today, it hosts a museum of decorative arts where you can view extensive tapestry collections and rotating temporary exhibits.

Built on the site of an ancient citadel by Emperor Augustus, the basilica of Santa Maria in Aracoeli is said to mark the site where the coming of Christ was revealed. Once a major political hub, it features a steep staircase of 100 marble steps, and its terrace provides a striking perspective of the Capitoline Hill.

Opening hours

The Basilica is open daily from 9:00 AM to 12:30 PM and from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM. Il Vittoriano is open daily from 9:30 AM to 6:30 PM. The Palazzo Venezia is open Tuesday through Sunday from 8:30 AM to 7:30 PM.
Hours are indicative and subject to change

Reviews of Piazza Venezia

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Summary of 5 reviews
4.4/5
Average rating
+24
Total recommendations

Ratings by visit type

With family
3.4
As a couple
4.6
With friends
4.6

Avygeo ranking

#104
in the world
#97
in Europe
#12
in Italy
#9
in Rome

A magnificent square

I remember my impression when I saw the monuments. It was incredible to see so many in the same place (and that is the effect Rome has in general). This square really gives off an air of majesty. The church is also very beautiful. And then, there is the pleasure of stopping in the restaurants and cafes. If you like the hustle and bustle, it is perfect!

7
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Central and a must-see

Piazza Venezia is a nerve center of Rome, central and unavoidable. Very popular with tourists, it impresses with its monumental architecture. The buzz is constant there, with dense and noisy traffic that is just part of the scenery. Despite that, it remains a must see spot, from where several shopping streets start that are perfect for strolling and shopping.

7
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A busy square at the crossroads of monuments

Right in the city center, Piazza Venezia overlooks the iconic Victor Emmanuel II monument and its beautiful bronze equestrian statue. Visiting this building, especially the roof with its superb panoramic view, is perfect on your first day to get to know Rome. Aside from this majestic typewriter, the square is just a huge traffic intersection that is not very pleasant to cross on foot. I much preferred the fabulous Piazza Navona with its Bernini fountain and rich baroque architecture.

7
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One of the most beautiful squares in Rome

This large, very central square, dominated by the Victor Emmanuel II monument just above the Roman Forums, is one of the most beautiful I have seen in Rome. Whether it is the historic buildings or the simple structures surrounding this square, everything takes on a monumental look.
The only small criticism you could make is that it is also a major traffic artery, which ruins its charm a little bit.

6
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Rome and its fantastic squares...

Rome is a surprising city. Ancient, antique even, and modern, lively, bustling.
We discovered narrow streets, palaces, cafes, squares, and fountains, each one more beautiful than the next.
Piazza Venezia is simply grandiose. Sitting at a cafe terrace and enjoying the time while watching life unfold around you is enriching because you get to discover the daily customs of the Italians.
Rome is a city to discover and rediscover, and so on...

6
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