PIAZZA VENEZIA. The ancient temple of Jupiter stood on this hill, which was a center of religion and politics in ancient Rome. On top of the hill, your view stretches across the Forum and the Colosseum. Palatine Hill stands majestically in the background. The ruins make a postcard picture, especially at night when the Colosseum is illuminated. BUS: 40, 64, 70, 75, 170, 492, 628

A statue of the Archangel Michael stands atop the Castel Sant'Angelo and is the source of the castle's name. It was originally built in the second century as Emperor Hadrian's mausoleum. Visitors, especially kids, will be charmed by the draw bridges, trap doors, ditches, canons, dungeons, weapons and papal apartments here. The terrace of the castle offers a splendid view of the city in all directions. There is also a charming café. BUS: 80, 87, 280, 492. METRO: Lepanto

This area is not easily accessed by public transportation, but the walk up to the top on Via Giacinto Carini is well worth it. You are surrounded by lovely views of the Alban Hills. Make sure that you go to Villa Lante before you leave the area, where you can get the best view of the city. BUS: 115 or 870 to the top or 44 and 75 to Via Giacinto Carini

Walking up from the Roman Forum from Via dei Fori Imperiali, you reach the Palatine Hill. The ruins here are left from Domus Flavia and Domus Augustana, and were built around the first century. From atop the hill, you have an incredible view of the city below and you can look out across the Circus Maximus and the Alban Hills. Access ends about one hour before sunset. BUS: 85, 87, 175. METRO: Colosseo. TRAM: 3

These gardens have been around since the ancient Roman times. However, the gardens you see today were not designed until the 1800s. From these gardens you have an incredible view of the city, from Monte Mario to the Janiculum. The best time to visit the gardens is at sunset, when the view of St. Peter's and the Tiber River make a picture perfect panorama. BUS: 95, 117, 490, 495, 628, 926; METRO: Flamino