The hills of Rome

The hillsides provide stunning views of the centre
Noteworthy for: The ancient city was founded over 2,700 years ago between the Seven Hills of Rome.

Word to the wise: On the railings of Villa Borghese overlooking the city, lovers traditionally sit and kiss, enveloped in the romantic hues - Rome's 'Make-Out Point', without the corn dogs.
Respectively north and south of Vatican City are Monte Mario, the highest hill of Rome, and the stunning Gianicolo, second tallest although not officially one of the Seven Hills of the ancient city. Both offer staggering views: undulating lines of terracotta rooftops, specked with luscious green foliage and the turquoise splashes of residents' swimming pools.

In the evening, cross the river to Villa Borghese on Pincian Hill. From here the city basks in the glow of dusk. The park includes landscaped gardens, galleries and museums such as the famous Museo e Galleria Borghese featuring Bernini and Raphael.

A short trip south of Villa Borghese is Villa del Priorato di Malta (Villa Malta), on Aventine Hill. The sight from the hill upstream of the Tiber is, naturally, beautiful; however, peek through the garden door keyhole towards the Vatican, and St Peter's dome stunningly appears, perfectly framed in shot as if through a pinhole camera.