Aventine Hill
Discover Rome's hidden gem on Aventine Hill, famous for its magical keyhole view of St. Peter's Dome and serene gardens.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, magical light
Aventine Hill
Best Time
Fewer crowds, magical light

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover Rome's hidden gem on Aventine Hill, famous for its magical keyhole view of St. Peter's Dome and serene gardens.
"Peer through a secret keyhole for a view that'll blow your mind!"
🎯 Beat the Keyhole Queue
Expect long lines for the Aventine Keyhole; visit early morning or late evening for a better experience .
🚶♀️ Walk Up Aventine Hill
It's easily walkable from Circo Massimo; no need for a cab to reach the keyhole .
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Knights of Malta Keyhole
Villa del Priorato di Malta
Peer through this secret keyhole for a perfectly framed view of St. Peter's Dome, spanning three countries!
Giardino degli Aranci (Orange Garden)
Aventine Hill
A tranquil garden offering breathtaking panoramic views of Rome, especially stunning at sunset.

Basilica di Santa Sabina
Aventine Hill
One of Rome's oldest churches, boasting beautiful ancient doors and a serene atmosphere.
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds at the Aventine Keyhole
Aventine Hill: More Than Just a Keyhole
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Beat the Keyhole Queue
Expect long lines for the Aventine Keyhole; visit early morning or late evening for a better experience.
🚶♀️ Walk Up Aventine Hill
It's easily walkable from Circo Massimo; no need for a cab to reach the keyhole.
🌅 Sunset at Orange Garden
Enjoy stunning Rome views at sunset from Giardino degli Aranci on Aventine Hill.
✨ Keyhole View Magic
The keyhole view perfectly frames St. Peter's Dome, a unique sight.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Beat the Keyhole Queue
Expect long lines for the Aventine Keyhole; visit early morning or late evening for a better experience.
🚶♀️ Walk Up Aventine Hill
It's easily walkable from Circo Massimo; no need for a cab to reach the keyhole.
🌅 Sunset at Orange Garden
Enjoy stunning Rome views at sunset from Giardino degli Aranci on Aventine Hill.
✨ Keyhole View Magic
The keyhole view perfectly frames St. Peter's Dome, a unique sight.
📍 Find the Knights of Malta
The keyhole is at the entrance of Villa del Priorato di Malta, a Knights of Malta property.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Aventine Hill is celebrated for its unique, perfectly framed view of St. Peter's Dome through the Knights of Malta Keyhole, offering a magical and memorable experience. Visitors also rave about the tranquil beauty and stunning panoramic city views from the Giardino degli Aranci, especially at sunset. However, the popularity of the keyhole means long queues can be a significant drawback for some.
"Loved walking through the Aventine Hill area. Several interesting things to see, and without the hustle and bustle of some of other of rooms highlights. Recommend walking through this area."
Rob Silver
"One of the best views in Roman. You can get a great panoramic view across the city.
There is an old Roman church, which is plain but quite beautiful inside.
You can also wander around the orange garden this is beautifully scented with citrus.
It's also the site of the famous Avantine Keyhole. There was a long queue, but essentially you look through a tiny keyhole for an amazing view of St Peters.
The best hill in the city!"
Samantha Platt
"It is a hill that you reach after a bit of a tiring walk. The view was not what I expected but I still recommend it to those who want to see Rome from above. But I would like to say again that it is not as perfect as it is mentioned."
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What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The easiest way to reach the Aventine Keyhole is by taking the Metro B line to Circo Massimo station. From there, it's a pleasant walk up Aventine Hill. Many travelers suggest walking rather than taking a taxi.
Yes, Aventine Hill is accessible via public transport. The closest Metro station is Circo Massimo. Buses also serve the area, making it convenient to reach from various parts of Rome.
Driving to Aventine Hill is possible, but parking can be challenging, especially during peak tourist seasons. It's generally recommended to use public transport or walk to avoid parking hassles.
The best way to explore Aventine Hill is on foot. This allows you to fully appreciate the charming streets, gardens, and the unique keyhole view. Wear comfortable shoes!
Aventine Hill is relatively close to the Colosseum. It's about a 20-30 minute walk, or a short metro ride from the Colosseo station to Circo Massimo.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there are no tickets required to look through the Aventine Keyhole. It's a free attraction, though you might encounter a queue of people waiting for their turn.
The keyhole itself is part of a gate and is accessible whenever the gate is open, typically during daylight hours. The surrounding gardens, like Giardino degli Aranci, also have specific opening and closing times.
Giardino degli Aranci (Orange Garden) is free to enter. It's a public park offering beautiful views and a peaceful atmosphere.
While the keyhole is technically always there, the best times to visit are during daylight hours when you can clearly see the view. Many recommend visiting in the early morning or late evening for fewer crowds and a more magical experience.
Yes, many guided tours of Rome include a stop at Aventine Hill and the famous keyhole. This can be a convenient way to learn more about the history and significance of the area.
📸 📸 Photography
For the best photos through the keyhole, aim for early morning or late afternoon. The light is softer, and you'll have a clearer view of St. Peter's Dome without harsh shadows.
Yes, you can take photos inside the Giardino degli Aranci. It's a beautiful spot for capturing panoramic views of Rome, especially during sunset.
The keyhole itself provides the perfect, albeit small, frame. The magic is in the alignment, so no special angling is needed; just look straight through!
Tripods are generally allowed in public parks like Giardino degli Aranci, but it's always a good idea to check for any specific signage or restrictions on the day of your visit, especially during busy periods.
A smartphone camera is perfectly adequate for capturing the keyhole view. The unique framing is the main attraction. For wider shots of Rome from the Orange Garden, a camera with a good zoom or wide-angle lens can be beneficial.
🎫 🚶♀️ Onsite Experience
The Aventine Keyhole is famous for offering a unique, perfectly framed view of St. Peter's Basilica dome. Looking through it, you can see the dome aligned with the path leading to it, creating a magical perspective.
Aventine Hill is home to several beautiful sites, including the Giardino degli Aranci (Orange Garden) with its stunning city views, and the ancient Basilica di Santa Sabina. It's a peaceful area away from the city bustle.
You can see the keyhole and enjoy the Orange Garden in about 1-2 hours. If you plan to visit Santa Sabina and explore more leisurely, allow 2-3 hours.
Yes, Aventine Hill can be enjoyable for children, especially the Orange Garden for its open space and views. The keyhole itself is a fun 'secret' to discover. However, the queues for the keyhole might test younger children's patience.
The keyhole is located on the property of the Sovereign Military Order of Malta. It offers a view through three countries: Italy, the Order of Malta's territory, and Vatican City, all aligned perfectly.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
❤️ Couples
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Magic of the Aventine Keyhole
While the view is spectacular, be prepared for potential queues, as this hidden gem has become quite popular. Travelers often advise visiting during off-peak hours, such as early mornings or late evenings, to avoid the longest waits and enjoy a more serene experience. The surrounding area on Aventine Hill is also worth exploring, offering a peaceful respite from the bustling city center.
For the best photographic opportunities, aim for the golden hours when the light is soft and the dome is beautifully illuminated. While a smartphone camera is sufficient to capture the essence of the keyhole view, the surrounding gardens offer ample opportunities for wider, more expansive shots of the Roman skyline.
Exploring Aventine Hill's Tranquil Beauty
Adjacent to the Orange Garden is the Basilica di Santa Sabina, one of the oldest churches in Rome, dating back to the 5th century. Its ancient wooden doors, featuring early Christian carvings, are a significant historical artifact. The basilica itself is a place of quiet contemplation, offering a glimpse into Rome's early Christian past. The entire hill is characterized by its peaceful ambiance, charming streets, and beautiful architecture, making it a delightful area to wander and discover.
When visiting Aventine Hill, comfortable walking shoes are a must, as you'll be doing a fair amount of walking uphill. The combination of the unique keyhole view, the breathtaking vistas from the Orange Garden, and the historical significance of Santa Sabina makes Aventine Hill a must-visit for a more relaxed and culturally rich Roman experience.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit