Piazza Venezia Bus Stop Guide - Vittoriano & Campidoglio

All roads lead to Rome, but in Rome, all roads seem to lead to Piazza Venezia. It is the chaotic, traffic-heavy hub where the ancient city meets the modern one. The bus stop here puts you within striking distance of three major sights.

The Wedding Cake (Il Vittoriano)

You literally cannot miss it. The Altare della Patria (Altar of the Fatherland) is a colossal mountain of white marble dedicated to Victor Emmanuel II, the first king of Italy.

• The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier: At the center, guarded by soldiers, burns the eternal flame.
• The Views: You can climb the lower terraces for free for great views.
• The Elevator: For about €10-15, a glass elevator takes you to the very top ("Terrazza delle Quadrighe"). The 360-degree view is arguably the best in Rome because you are the only high point that can see into the Colosseum and Forum.

The Campidoglio (Capitoline Hill)

Just around the right side of the shiny white monument is a medieval-looking staircase (the Cordonata) leading to the Piazza del Campidoglio, designed by Michelangelo.

• Capitoline Museums: The world's oldest public museum. It houses the famous She-Wolf statue, the equestrian statue of Marcus Aurelius, and the Dying Gaul.
• Free View: If you don't want to pay for the museum, walk to the right of the Senatorial Palace (the main building) and head around the back. There is a terrace that offers a stunning—and free—view overlooking the entire Roman Forum.

Palazzo Venezia

On the left side of the square (if facing the white monument) is the brown, fortress-like Palazzo Venezia.

• History: This was the headquarters of Mussolini. You can see the small central balcony where he delivered his famous speeches to the crowds below.
• Now: It is a museum of art and history, often hosting temporary exhibitions.

Bus Logistics: The Interchange

This stop is a major interchange. Almost all bus lines (Big Bus, City Sightseeing, public buses) stop here. It is a great place to switch lines or start your tour if you are staying in the center. Warning: The heavy traffic here means buses can sometimes be delayed getting in or out of the square.