Capitoline Museums, Rome, Italy - a large building with a clock on the front of it
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Capitoline Museums Rome

4.7
·17k reviews·Roma, Italy

World's oldest public museum, housing masterpieces of Roman sculpture and art on Michelangelo's stunning Capitoline Hill.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, better viewing

CrowdLow
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Capitoline Museums, Rome, Italy - a large building with a clock on the front of it

Capitoline Museums Rome

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, better viewing

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

World's oldest public museum, housing masterpieces of Roman sculpture and art on Michelangelo's stunning Capitoline Hill.

4.7
(17k reviews)

"A treasure trove of Roman history and art, with breathtaking views to match."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎟️ Book tickets online

Secure your entry to avoid potential queues, especially during peak season.

👟 Wear comfortable shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking across multiple buildings and levels.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Equestrian Statue of Marcus Aurelius

Equestrian Statue of Marcus Aurelius

Courtyard

The iconic gilded bronze equestrian statue, a symbol of imperial power and a masterpiece of Roman sculpture.

Dying Gaul

Dying Gaul

Palazzo Nuovo

A poignant marble sculpture depicting a wounded Celtic warrior, renowned for its emotional intensity and realism.

Colossus of Constantine

Colossus of Constantine

Tabularium

Immense marble fragments of a colossal statue of Emperor Constantine, offering a glimpse into the grandeur of ancient Rome.

Hall of the Emperors

Hall of the Emperors

Palazzo dei Conservatori

A breathtaking collection of imperial busts, showcasing Roman emperors from Augustus to the late empire.

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Planning Your Visit

Book Tickets in Advance

While some visitors report no queues, booking Capitoline Museum tickets online is a smart move to guarantee entry, especially during peak season. Avoid disappointment and secure your spot to explore these historic Roman treasures.

Explore the Capitoline Hill

The Capitoline Museums are spread across Michelangelo's stunning Piazza del Campidoglio. Allow ample time to not only visit the museums but also to soak in the panoramic views of the Roman Forum from the piazza.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, better viewing
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoons
Why
Golden hour views
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

This was the statue that the emperor Constantine made for the basilica of Massentius in the Roman Forum. It was a giant statue (12meters high/39 feet!) and the only fragments that made it to this day ...
@livevirtualguide
49.6K likes • 641.2K views

🎟️ Book tickets online

Secure your entry to avoid potential queues, especially during peak season. Reddit

👟 Wear comfortable shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking across multiple buildings and levels. Reddit

The Centrale Montemartini is a museum in Rome housed in a former power plant in the Ostiense district and it’s really a cult favourite. Opened in 1997, it is part of the Capitoline Museums and displa...
michaelthecanadian
553 likes • 13.1K views
The splendid Hall of Palazzo Nuovo, the most monumental space in the Capitoline Museums, features a stunning 17th-century coffered ceiling with Baroque decorations and the coat of arms of Innocent X. ...
unaqualunque
0 likes • 23K views

🏛️ Explore Piazza del Campidoglio

Don't miss Michelangelo's stunning piazza and the views of the Roman Forum. TikTok

🗺️ Consider the Roma Pass

It might offer discounts and public transport benefits. Reddit

Hidden Gems in Rome No One talks about ✨🇮🇹 📍 Statue of Constantine Colossal remains of an ancient Roman emperor statue in the Capitoline Museums 📍 Galleria Sciarra Hidden Art Nouveau courtyard with ...
romesomuch
10.2K likes • 252.3K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎟️ Book tickets online

Secure your entry to avoid potential queues, especially during peak season. Reddit

👟 Wear comfortable shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking across multiple buildings and levels. Reddit

🏛️ Explore Piazza del Campidoglio

Don't miss Michelangelo's stunning piazza and the views of the Roman Forum. TikTok

🗺️ Consider the Roma Pass

It might offer discounts and public transport benefits. Reddit

📸 Capture the Colossus

The giant fragments of Constantine's statue are a must-see photo op. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.7
(17k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Capitoline Museums for their exceptional collection of Roman sculptures and art, particularly the iconic Marcus Aurelius statue and the Hall of Emperors. The stunning location on Capitoline Hill and the views over the Roman Forum are also frequently highlighted as major draws. Some visitors note that the sheer volume of art can be overwhelming, and signage could be improved in certain areas.

"One of the best museums in Rome simply put. The square in which it sits was designed by Michaelangelo in the 1500s. The museum is dedicated to history and art of Ancient Rome. The most famous work is the Capitoline Wolf. There are also renaissance and baroque paintings which are all very stunning to see in real life. This museum also hosts temporary exhibitions and the architecture itself is just stunning. It’s best to book tickets in advance, especially during peak tourist periods."

Alfred Tao

"Incredible museum in the heart of Rome right next door to major attractions such as the Roman forum, The Altar della Patria, The Piazza Vinezia, The Santa Maria Aracolei chruch and so much more, queues can vairy massively depending on time of day but I reccomend you go after lunchtime to avoid the morning rush, inside there's almost endless attractions to enjoy and observe ranging from ancient classics to renaissance masterpieces, to finish it off with an amazing gift shop with a huge variety of souvenirs available, strongly recommend anyone to visit this museum and will be returning in the future

Atmosphere:4/5
History:5/5
Architecture: 5/5
Service:4/5
Amenities/Facilities:5/5
Overall:5/5"

Daniel Burns

"Well organised museum with gigantic statutes and nice frescos and paintings.It is not crowded which gives you a good opportunity for a quite detailed visit.
The cafeteria there has a beautiful panoramic view . It is clean with many snacks and drinks options."

Najwa Akar

What People Like

Masterpieces of Roman sculpture
Stunning location and views
Historical significance

What People Dislike

Can be overwhelming
Signage could be better

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Capitoline Museums are located on Capitoline Hill. You can reach them by walking from the Roman Forum or Piazza Venezia. Several bus lines stop nearby, and it's a pleasant walk from the Colosseo metro station (Line B). TikTok

Yes, many bus routes serve the area around Piazza Venezia, which is a short walk from Capitoline Hill. The nearest metro station is Colosseo (Line B), about a 15-20 minute walk away. Reddit

Absolutely! It's a scenic walk of about 15-20 minutes, passing by the Roman Forum. This allows you to see more of the ancient city on your way. TikTok

Street parking is very limited and difficult to find in this central area. It's highly recommended to use public transport or a taxi. There are paid parking garages in the vicinity, but they can be expensive. Reddit

Many visitors enjoy approaching via the Cordonata staircase, designed by Michelangelo, which leads up to Piazza del Campidoglio. It's a grand entrance to the museum complex. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

While not always strictly necessary, booking tickets online in advance is recommended to guarantee entry and avoid potential queues, especially during peak tourist seasons. Reddit

The Capitoline Museums typically open around 9:30 AM and close at 7:30 PM, with the last admission usually an hour before closing. It's always best to check the official website for the most current opening hours, as they can vary. Reddit

Yes, the Roma Pass often includes free entry to one or two museums, including the Capitoline Museums, and discounts on others. It can also cover public transport. Reddit

Ticket prices can vary, but a standard adult ticket is typically around €15-€20. Concessions are available for EU citizens aged 18-25 and other categories. Check the official website for the most up-to-date pricing. Reddit

The Capitoline Museums, like many state museums in Italy, offer free admission on the first Sunday of every month. However, these days can be very crowded. Reddit

🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience

To fully appreciate the collections and the architecture, plan for at least 2-3 hours. If you want to explore the Piazza del Campidoglio and its views, allocate an extra hour. Reddit

Key highlights include the Equestrian Statue of Marcus Aurelius, the Dying Gaul, the Capitoline Wolf, the Colossus of Constantine, and the Hall of the Emperors. TikTokInstagram

Absolutely! The museums house a vast collection of classical Roman sculpture, Renaissance art, and paintings, making it a prime destination for art history lovers. Reddit

Photography for personal use is generally allowed without flash. However, some special exhibitions might have restrictions. Always look for signage. Instagram

Yes, there is a cafe/restaurant within the museum complex, offering refreshments and light meals with stunning views over the Roman Forum. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

The Piazza del Campidoglio offers iconic shots of the piazza and the city. Inside, the Hall of the Emperors and the courtyard with Marcus Aurelius are very photogenic. The views over the Roman Forum are also spectacular. TikTokInstagram

Tripods are generally not permitted inside the museums to avoid obstructing other visitors and for safety reasons. Check the museum's specific policy upon arrival. Instagram

Late afternoon offers beautiful golden hour light, enhancing the ancient architecture. Early mornings can also be good for fewer crowds and softer light. Instagram

The Equestrian Statue of Marcus Aurelius, the Dying Gaul, and the colossal fragments of Constantine are highly recommended for their visual impact. TikTokInstagram

A versatile lens like a 24-70mm is useful for capturing both wide shots of the piazza and details of sculptures. A fast prime lens can be good for low-light interiors if flash is prohibited. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Capitoline Museums can be a fantastic experience for families, especially if you focus on the more visually striking exhibits. The Colossus of Constantine with its giant fragments is always a hit with children, sparking imagination about ancient giants. TikTok The Capitoline Wolf nursing Romulus and Remus is another iconic piece that can engage younger minds with Roman mythology. Reddit

To make the visit smoother, consider a shorter, focused visit, perhaps concentrating on the Palazzo dei Conservatori. Bring snacks and water, and be prepared for plenty of walking. The views over the Roman Forum from the back of the piazza can also serve as a great break and a visual history lesson. Instagram

🏛️ Art History Buffs

For art history enthusiasts, the Capitoline Museums are an absolute must-visit. The Hall of the Emperors offers an unparalleled chronological survey of Roman imperial portraiture, allowing for deep study of stylistic evolution and political messaging. Reddit The Dying Gaul and the Capitoline Venus are prime examples of Hellenistic sculpture that profoundly influenced Roman art. Reddit

Don't overlook the painting galleries in the Palazzo dei Conservatori, which feature works by Caravaggio, Titian, and Veronese. The Centrale Montemartini (a branch of the Capitoline Museums) offers a unique juxtaposition of classical sculpture against an industrial power plant backdrop, a truly memorable experience for those seeking something different. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Capitoline Museums: A Journey Through Roman Art

The Capitoline Museums, located on Capitoline Hill in Rome, are considered the oldest public museum in the world. Established in 1471, they house an unparalleled collection of Roman art and artifacts, spread across three magnificent buildings designed around Michelangelo's Piazza del Campidoglio. Visitors can expect to see masterpieces of ancient sculpture, including the iconic Equestrian Statue of Marcus Aurelius and the poignant Dying Gaul, alongside significant Renaissance paintings and Egyptian antiquities. Reddit

The museum complex is divided into the Palazzo dei Conservatori, Palazzo Nuovo, and the Tabularium. The Palazzo Nuovo is home to the famous Hall of the Emperors, a gallery of imperial busts, and the Dying Gaul. The Palazzo dei Conservatori features the Capitoline Wolf, the colossal fragments of Constantine, and a rich collection of paintings. The Tabularium, an ancient Roman record office, connects the two palaces and offers breathtaking views of the Roman Forum. TikTokInstagram

Many visitors find the sheer scale and historical significance of the collections overwhelming in the best way possible. The arrangement of the art, particularly the imperial portraits, provides a fascinating narrative of Roman history and power. It's a place where history truly comes alive, offering a deep dive into the artistic and cultural legacy of ancient Rome. Reddit

Exploring Capitoline Hill and its Views

Capitoline Hill (Campidoglio) itself is as much a draw as the museums it houses. Designed by Michelangelo, the piazza is a Renaissance masterpiece, featuring the equestrian statue of Marcus Aurelius at its center. The harmonious design and the surrounding palaces create a unique atmosphere, a world away from the bustling streets below. TikTok

The real magic for many visitors lies in the panoramic views of the Roman Forum accessible from the back of the piazza, near the Tabularium. This vantage point offers a stunning perspective of the ancient ruins, especially during the golden hour. It's a perfect spot to reflect on the history you've just experienced within the museums. Instagram

Many travelers recommend taking time to simply wander around the piazza, admire the architecture, and soak in the atmosphere. It's a place that invites contemplation and offers a different, more serene side of Rome compared to the more crowded ancient sites. Reddit

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