J. Whyte Photography

The  Spanish Steps  are one of Rome’s most recognizable landmarks, linking the lively  Piazza di Spagna  below with the  Trinità dei Monti  church at the top. Built in the early 18th century (1723–1725), the steps were designed to connect the French church above with the Spanish Embassy to the Holy See below—hence the name. With  135 sweeping steps , they’re less about getting somewhere quickly and more about lingering, people-watching, and soaking in the atmosphere. At the base of the steps you’ll find the  Fontana della Barcaccia , a charming Baroque fountain shaped like a half-sunken boat, designed by Pietro Bernini (with help from his more famous son, Gian Lorenzo Bernini). It’s a perfect starting point before climbing upward or framing photos looking back toward the street. The Spanish Steps have long been a magnet for artists, writers, and travelers. In the 18th and 19th centuries, this area was a hub for visiting poets and painters, and tod...

No trip to Rome feels complete without a stop at the Pantheon, and it’s one of those rare landmarks that actually lives up to the hype. Tucked into a lively piazza full of cafés and street life, the Pantheon somehow manages to feel both central and timeless. One minute you’re dodging scooters and espresso cups, the next you’re standing inside a 2,000-year-old building that’s still doing exactly what it was built to do. For photographers, the Pantheon is an absolute dream—especially because of the light. The massive oculus at the top of the dome is the only natural light source, and it changes the mood of the interior constantly. Late morning and early afternoon are especially great for photos, when sunbeams cut dramatically across the space. A wide-angle lens works best here to capture the scale of the dome, but don’t forget to zoom in on details like the patterned marble floors and the intricate coffers overhead. If you want cleaner shots, aim for an early morning visit. The crowds ar...