Ready to step back in time and walk in the footsteps of gladiators, emperors, and ancient Romans? Europe is absolutely packed with incredible Roman monuments that’ll blow your mind and transport you straight back to the glory days of the empire. Whether you’re a history buff, an Instagram enthusiast, or just someone who loves epic travel experiences, these ancient gems are calling your name.
From the iconic Colosseum to hidden archaeological treasures, we’ve rounded up the most spectacular Roman sites that deserve a spot on every traveler’s bucket list. Pack your camera, comfortable walking shoes, and sense of adventure – we’re about to embark on an epic journey through 2,000 years of history!
1. The Colosseum – Rome, Italy
The Ultimate Gladiator Arena
Nothing – and we mean nothing – prepares you for that first glimpse of the Colosseum. This massive amphitheater is the undisputed heavyweight champion of Roman monuments, and for good reason. Built between 70-80 AD, this architectural marvel could hold up to 80,000 spectators who came to watch gladiatorial combat, wild animal hunts, and even mock naval battles.
Historical Significance & Legends: The Colosseum witnessed some of the most dramatic moments in Roman history. Legend has it that Emperor Commodus himself fought as a gladiator here (yes, like in the movie!). The underground hypogeum, a complex network of tunnels and chambers, housed everything from exotic animals to elaborate stage machinery that could flood the arena for naval battles.
Why It’s So Popular: With over 6 million visitors annually, the Colosseum is Italy’s most visited monument. Its iconic silhouette has become synonymous with Rome itself, and it’s been featured in countless films, making it instantly recognizable worldwide.
Accommodation Options:
- Luxury: Hotel de Russie or The First Roma Dolce Vita
- Mid-range: Hotel Artemide or Kolbe Hotel Rome
- Budget: The RomeHello or Alessandro Palace Hostel
Campervan Spots: Rome doesn’t allow overnight parking in the city center, but Camping Village Fabulous and Camping Roma are excellent options about 30 minutes from the Colosseum with shuttle services.
Activities & Events:
- Summer: Night tours (absolutely magical!), outdoor concerts in nearby venues
- Winter: Fewer crowds mean better photos, Christmas markets in the area
- Year-round: Underground tours, gladiator experience programs, virtual reality experiences
2. Hadrian’s Wall – Northern England, UK
The Empire’s Northern Frontier
Stretching 84 miles across northern England, Hadrian’s Wall is hands-down one of the most impressive Roman engineering feats you’ll ever encounter. Built around 122 AD on Emperor Hadrian’s orders, this fortification marked the northernmost frontier of the Roman Empire.
Historical Significance & Legends: This wasn’t just a wall – it was a complex military installation with forts, barracks, and watchtowers. Local legends speak of Roman ghosts still patrolling the wall, and some visitors swear they’ve heard the sound of marching legions on misty mornings.
Why It’s So Popular: It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site that offers incredible hiking opportunities combined with fascinating history. The dramatic landscapes make it a photographer’s paradise.
Accommodation Options:
- Luxury: Langley Castle Hotel (sleep in a real castle!)
- Mid-range: Premier Inn Hexham or The Angel of Corbridge
- Budget: YHA Once Brewed or local B&Bs
Campervan Spots: The Sill National Landscape Discovery Centre offers campervan-friendly parking, and there are several farm sites along the wall that welcome motorhomes.
Activities & Events:
- Summer: Hadrian’s Wall Path hiking, Roman festivals, archaeological digs
- Winter: Atmospheric winter walks, cozy pub visits, Northern Lights viewing
- Special Events: Roman re-enactments, summer solstice celebrations
3. Roman Theatre of Orange – Orange, France
The Best-Preserved Roman Theatre in the World
Get ready to have your breath taken away by this absolutely stunning Roman theatre in the heart of Provence. Built in the 1st century AD, it’s so well-preserved that it’s still used for performances today – how incredible is that?
Historical Significance & Legends: The theatre’s enormous stage wall (103 meters wide and 37 meters high) is the only one of its kind that survives intact. Local legends say that Emperor Augustus’s statue, which dominates the stage, comes to life during full moons to watch over the town.
Why It’s So Popular: Its exceptional acoustics and preservation make it a living piece of history. The annual opera festival, Les Chorégies d’Orange, attracts visitors from around the world.
Accommodation Options:
- Luxury: Villa Florentine or Château de Rochegude
- Mid-range: Best Western Hôtel Arène or Hôtel Saint Florent
- Budget: Ibis Orange Centre or local chambres d’hôtes
Campervan Spots: Camping Le Jonquier is perfect for campervans, just 10 minutes from the theatre, with excellent facilities and a pool.
Activities & Events:
- Summer: Opera festival (July), evening concerts, wine tasting tours
- Winter: Christmas markets, truffle hunting, exploring Provence villages
- Year-round: Audio-guided tours, virtual reality experiences, local market visits
4. Pont du Gard – Near Nîmes, France
The Roman Aqueduct That Defies Belief
This three-tiered aqueduct bridge is pure Roman engineering genius that’ll leave you wondering how on earth they built something so spectacular 2,000 years ago. Standing 49 meters high and spanning 275 meters, it’s the highest ancient bridge in the world.
Historical Significance & Legends: Part of a 50-kilometer aqueduct system that supplied water to Nîmes, the Pont du Gard was built without mortar – the massive stones are held together by precise engineering and iron clamps. Legend has it that the Devil himself helped with its construction because humans couldn’t possibly build something so perfect.
Why It’s So Popular: It’s the most visited ancient monument in France, combining stunning architecture with beautiful natural surroundings perfect for swimming and picnicking.
Accommodation Options:
- Luxury: La Maison d’Ulysse or Hôtel Imperator
- Mid-range: Best Western Hôtel Marquis de la Baume
- Budget: Ibis Nîmes Centre Gare or camping options
Campervan Spots: Camping La Sousta offers excellent facilities right by the Gardon River, perfect for exploring the aqueduct and enjoying water activities.
Activities & Events:
- Summer: River swimming, canoeing, evening light shows on the bridge
- Winter: Peaceful walks, photography workshops, visiting nearby Roman sites
- Year-round: Museum visits, guided tours, hiking trails
5. Roman Amphitheatre of Nîmes – Nîmes, France
France’s Mini Colosseum
Often called France’s Colosseum, this beautifully preserved amphitheater is one of the best-preserved Roman arenas in the world. Built around 70 AD, it’s still hosting events today – talk about staying power!
Historical Significance & Legends: This arena hosted gladiatorial games for centuries and later became a fortress, then a small town with houses built inside it. Local legends speak of gladiator spirits that still roam the corridors, especially during full moons.
Why It’s So Popular: Its excellent preservation and continued use for concerts and events make it a living piece of history. Plus, it’s more intimate than the Colosseum, allowing for a more personal experience.
Accommodation Options:
- Luxury: Hôtel Imperator or Jardins Secrets
- Mid-range: Best Western Hôtel Marquis de la Baume
- Budget: Ibis Styles Nîmes Gare Centre or youth hostels
Campervan Spots: Domaine de la Bastide is a great option just outside Nîmes with pool facilities and easy access to the city center.
Activities & Events:
- Summer: Concerts, festivals, bullfighting events (a controversial local tradition)
- Winter: Guided tours, Christmas markets, exploring the old town
- Year-round: Audio tours, photography opportunities, local cuisine exploration
6. Diocletian’s Palace – Split, Croatia
The Palace That Became a City
This isn’t just a monument – it’s a living, breathing piece of history where thousands of people actually live and work today! Built as Emperor Diocletian’s retirement home in 305 AD, it’s now the heart of Split’s old town.
Historical Significance & Legends: Diocletian was the only Roman emperor to voluntarily abdicate and retire. Legend says he chose this spot because he dreamed of a great palace by the sea where he could grow cabbages in peace. The palace walls still contain shops, restaurants, and apartments – it’s like stepping into a time machine!
Why It’s So Popular: It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site that perfectly blends ancient Roman architecture with modern Mediterranean life. Game of Thrones fans will recognize it as Meereen!
Accommodation Options:
- Luxury: Heritage Hotel Fermai or Villa Dalmacija
- Mid-range: Hotel Park or Piazza Heritage Hotel
- Budget: Villa Dalmacija Hostel or private apartments within the palace walls
Campervan Spots: Camp Stobreč and Camp Žrnovnica offer great facilities about 20 minutes from Split, with bus connections to the city center.
Activities & Events:
- Summer: Split Summer Festival, beach activities, island hopping tours
- Winter: Christmas markets within the palace, fewer crowds for photography
- Year-round: Underground tours, Game of Thrones tours, local food experiences
7. Maison Carrée – Nîmes, France
The Perfect Roman Temple
This pristine Roman temple is considered one of the most beautiful and complete Roman buildings anywhere in the world. Built around 16 BC, it’s so perfect that it inspired countless neoclassical buildings, including the U.S. Supreme Court!
Historical Significance & Legends: Dedicated to Emperor Augustus’s grandsons, this temple survived because it was continuously used – as a church, town hall, and even stables. Local folklore claims that anyone who walks around it three times counterclockwise will have their wishes granted.
Why It’s So Popular: Its exceptional preservation and architectural perfection make it a must-see for anyone interested in Roman architecture. The modern multimedia show inside brings Roman Nîmes to life.
Accommodation Options:
- Luxury: Hôtel Imperator
- Mid-range: Best Western Hôtel Marquis de la Baume
- Budget: Ibis Nîmes Centre Gare
Campervan Spots: Same great options as other Nîmes attractions – Domaine de la Bastide remains the top choice.
Activities & Events:
- Summer: Evening light shows, outdoor markets, festival activities
- Winter: Peaceful contemplation, photography, exploring Roman Nîmes
- Year-round: Multimedia presentations, architectural tours, combining with other Nîmes sites
8. Roman Theatre and Triumphal Arch – Orange, France
A Roman Power Couple
While we mentioned the theatre earlier, Orange’s triumphal arch deserves its own spotlight! Built around 10-25 AD, this magnificent arch commemorated Roman victories and welcomed visitors to the Roman city of Arausio.
Historical Significance & Legends: The arch features incredible relief sculptures depicting Roman military victories. Legend has it that any conquering army that passed under this arch would be blessed with eternal victory – though that didn’t help prevent the fall of Rome!
Why It’s So Popular: Combined with the theatre, Orange offers one of the most complete Roman experiences in France. The arch’s intricate carvings are absolutely mind-blowing.
Accommodation Options: Same excellent options as the Roman Theatre of Orange.
Campervan Spots: Camping Le Jonquier remains the perfect base for exploring all of Orange’s Roman treasures.
Activities & Events: Perfect to combine with theatre visits and other Orange attractions for a full Roman day.
9. Aqueduct of Segovia – Segovia, Spain
The Stonework Sensation
This absolutely jaw-dropping aqueduct marches right through the heart of Segovia like a giant stone centipede. Built in the 1st or 2nd century AD, it’s 813 meters long and reaches 28 meters high at its tallest point – all without a single drop of mortar!
Historical Significance & Legends: This engineering masterpiece supplied water to Segovia for nearly 2,000 years, only going out of use in 1973! Local legend tells of a young woman who made a deal with the devil to build the aqueduct in one night so she wouldn’t have to carry water uphill anymore.
Why It’s So Popular: It’s one of the best-preserved Roman aqueducts in the world and creates an incredible backdrop for the charming medieval city of Segovia.
Accommodation Options:
- Luxury: Parador de Segovia or Hotel Real Segovia
- Mid-range: Hotel Infanta Isabel or Áurea Palacio de San Esteban
- Budget: Hostal Juan Bravo or budget hotels in the old town
Campervan Spots: Camping Acueducto is perfectly positioned for exploring Segovia, with easy walking access to the aqueduct and old town.
Activities & Events:
- Summer: Medieval festivals, outdoor concerts, exploring the fairy-tale Alcázar castle
- Winter: Christmas markets, cozy tavernas, fewer crowds for photos
- Year-round: Walking tours, culinary experiences (try the famous cochinillo!), day trips to nearby sites
10. Roman Baths – Bath, England
Britain’s Most Luxurious Roman Spa
Last but definitely not least, the Roman Baths in Bath offer one of the most immersive Roman experiences you’ll find anywhere. These natural hot springs have been drawing visitors for over 2,000 years, and you can still see the steam rising from the Sacred Spring today.
Historical Significance & Legends: Legend has it that Prince Bladud (King Lear’s father) discovered the healing powers of these springs when his pigs were cured of skin diseases after wallowing in the hot mud. The Romans built an elaborate temple and bathing complex here dedicated to the goddess Sulis Minerva.
Why It’s So Popular: It’s one of the finest historic sites in Northern Europe, offering a complete Roman experience from the Sacred Spring to the Great Bath. The audio guide (narrated by Bill Bryson) is absolutely fantastic.
Accommodation Options:
- Luxury: The Royal Crescent Hotel or The Gainsborough Bath Spa
- Mid-range: Abbey Hotel Bath or Hotel Indigo Bath
- Budget: YHA Bath or YMCA Bath
Campervan Spots: Bath Chew Valley Caravan Park offers excellent facilities about 15 minutes from the city center, with regular bus services.
Activities & Events:
- Summer: Jane Austen Festival, outdoor concerts, river trips
- Winter: Christmas markets, Thermae Bath Spa (modern spa using the same thermal waters!), cozy Georgian tearooms
- Year-round: Architecture tours, literary walks, sampling Bath’s famous Sally Lunn buns
Planning Your Roman Empire Road Trip
Best Times to Visit:
- Late spring (April-May) and early fall (September-October) offer perfect weather and fewer crowds
- Summer brings festivals and events but also peak prices and crowds
- Winter offers authentic experiences with fewer tourists but some attractions may have reduced hours
Getting Around: Many of these sites work brilliantly as part of a European road trip. Consider renting a campervan for ultimate flexibility, or use Europe’s excellent train network to hop between countries.
Money-Saving Tips:
- Look for combination tickets when multiple Roman sites are in the same city
- Many sites offer reduced prices for students, seniors, and families
- Consider visiting during shoulder seasons for better accommodation deals
What to Pack:
- Comfortable walking shoes (you’ll be doing lots of exploring!)
- Portable charger for your camera/phone
- Sunscreen and water bottle
- A good guidebook or download offline maps
Disclaimer: Travel information, prices, and availability are subject to change. Always check official websites for the most current information before visiting. Accommodation recommendations are based on general traveler reviews and location convenience. Some activities and events may be seasonal or subject to local restrictions. Campervan parking regulations vary by location and may change – always verify current rules with local authorities before traveling.
