Why Visit Il Vittoriano in Rome? A Complete Guide

We had walked past the impressive marble monument of Vittoriano many times.

We even climbed its stairs to take a few photos. But we never realised how much more it had to offer.

During our visit in November 2026, we decided to explore it all.

From breathtaking 360-degree views of Rome to fascinating history, beautiful sculptures, and impressive architecture, there is so much to discover.

And the best part? You can explore parts of the monument for free, even without buying a ticket for the panoramic terrace.

Here’s our guide to Vittoriano to help you make the most of your visit!

How to reach Il Vittoriano?

Il Vittoriano sits right in the heart of Rome, surrounded by some of the city's most famous sights.

The Colosseum, Roman Forum, Palatine Hill, Teatro di Marcello and Capitoline Hill are all just a stone's throw away.

It's also right at the bottom of Via del Corso, a long shopping street.

The Pantheon, Trevi Fountain and Campo de Fiori are also just a short walk away.

🚶 Walk along Via Cavour from Termini Station and you'll reach Il Vittoriano in about 20 minutes. It's also just a short stroll from the Tiber River and Trastevere.

🚌 We took bus no. 30 from Prati (ticket cost €1.50; buy at a tabacchi) and got off at the Teatro Marcello/Ara Coeli stop, just a 2-minute walk from Il Vittoriano.

How much does it cost to visit Il Vittoriano?

The best part? You can explore much of Il Vittoriano for free!

Climb the grand staircases, wander the lower terraces, admire the sculptures, and see the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and the statue of Victor Emmanuel II.

A great option if you're travelling on a budget and want to save on sightseeing!

You'll need a ticket, though, to visit the Main Colonnade, panoramic terrace, Museum of the Risorgimento and Palazzo Venezia, across the square.

Il Vittoriano ticket info

• Tickets cost €18 for adults and €5 for EU residents aged 18–24
• Children under 18 and visitors with disabilities enter for free

You can buy tickets at the entrance.

The ticket is valid for seven days, so you can visit everything at your own pace!

We were lucky with our visit!

We went on 4 November, Italy’s National Unity and Armed Forces Day, when entry was free. 

The monument opened around noon, once the wreath-laying ceremony was over, and they handed out free tickets at the entrance.

A little history of Il Vittoriano

Also known as the Altare della Patria (Altar of the Fatherland), this impressive monument was built in honour of Victor Emmanuel II, the first king of united Italy.

Construction began in 1885, and it opened in 1911, although it wasn't fully completed until 1935.

Designed by Giuseppe Sacconi, it is also home to the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, added in 1921 in memory of an Italian soldier who died in World War I.

Today, it stands as a symbol of Italian unity, freedom and national pride.

What we loved the most about Vittoria Emanuelle II monument in Rome

As we approached from the left, we spotted the beautiful Fountain of the Tyrrhenian Sea (Fontana del Tirreno). The Fountain of the Adriatic Sea is on the other side!

It's a lovely photo spot, with the fountain in front and Italian flags waving in the background. We also stopped to admire the sculptures and details up close!

As we started climbing the grand white staircase, the view from below was already impressive! At the top, we reached the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, guarded by the honour guards.

Next spot for amazing views is the large central terrace right above, where the enormous bronze equestrian statue of Victor Emmanuel II stands.

The bronze statue of Victor Emmanuel II is enormous, measuring 12 metres high and 10 metres long, and weighing around 50 tonnes! The bronze was made from old cannons belonging to the Royal Italian Army. It was started by Enrico Chiaradia and completed by Emilio Gallori in 1910.

And here's a fun fact: the hollow horse was big enough to host a lunch for 21 people! Around the marble base, you'll also spot 14 female figures representing important Italian cities.

Next we followed the signs for Sommoportico (Main Colonnade). we loved this space so much. It features a long row of 16 huge Corinthian columns, with beautiful marble floors, decorated ceilings and grand interior spaces. one of the most elegant parts of the monument!

it ends with another great spot for capturing photos of Rome in distance. We thought that this is the highest point!

Later on, while having a drink in a cafe we spotted people waiting for the elevator that leads to the very top of vittoriano - terrazza delle quadrighe (Terrazza Panoramica).

Know Before You Go: Practical Tips for Your Visit

Planning to check out the "Wedding Cake" in person? Here is everything you need to know to make your visit smooth and stress-free:

📍 Location: Piazza Venezia, Rome. It is impossible to miss—right in the absolute center of the city, walking distance from the Roman Forum and Colosseum.

⏰ Opening Hours: Open daily from 9:30 AM to 7:30 PM (Monday to Saturday) and until 7:00 PM on Sundays.

🎟️ Ticket Prices:

• The Exterior & Lower Terraces: Completely FREE.
  You can walk up the magnificent Grand Staircase and see the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier without paying a cent.
• The Panoramic Glass Elevator (Roma Dal Cielo) & Museums: €18 for a combined ticket. The ticket is valid for 7 days and also includes access to the Central Museum of the Risorgimento and Palazzo Venezia.

💡 Pro Travel Budget Tip: Admission to the museum spaces and panoramic areas is completely free on the first Sunday of each month!

🚨 Strict Rules to Remember: Security at the monument is very high. Large bags, suitcases, and backpacks are strictly prohibited, and there is no luggage storage on-site. Also, out of respect for the military monument, sitting on the steps, eating, or drinking is not allowed.

👟 What to Wear: Wear comfortable walking shoes. The stone steps are massive and extensive, so you will be doing a lot of climbing!

Where we at near Il Vittoriano!

After two hours of exploring the area, we headed to Osteria da Fortunata, a lovely trattoria just a 10-minute walk away, near Campo de’ Fiori.

The food was truly Roman and absolutely delicious! The supplì were incredibly juicy, with real mozzarella di bufala inside – some of the best we had in Rome! We also loved the gnocchi with coda alla vaccinara sauce and the rich, flavourful oxtail ragù.

The portions were generous, and everything was so filling that we couldn't even manage dessert!

A fantastic spot for authentic Roman food. Highly recommended!

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