Aventine Hill (Aventino)

The Basics

Many tours of ancient and imperial Rome include Aventine Hill as it figures prominently in the Eternal City's founding myth (it's the hill Remus preferred). In ancient times it was the site of the Temple of Diana. Today the churches and gardens of the quiet residential district offer a peaceful respite. Snap photo-worthy views of the rooftops of Rome and St. Peter’s Basilica, including through a keyhole on the gate to the Knights of Malta.

Join a tour of the hills of ancient Rome by Vespa scooter or e-bike to explore Aventine, or take a tour highlighting the most beautiful views in Rome by day or night. Aventine Hill is also near Circus Maximus and the Baths of Caracalla, and you can easily combine a visit to all three in one trip.

Things to Know Before You Go

• With its abundance of gardens and public parks, Aventine Hill is a welcome break for families with kids.

• Most of the sights on Aventine are outdoors, so bring a hat and sunscreen in summer, and dress warmly in winter.

• Modest dress is required to enter Basilica of Santa Sabina.

• Some of the best views of Rome can be found from the heights of Aventine Hill, and a visit is recommended for photography buffs.

How to Get There

It's about a 10-minute walk from Aventine Hill to Porta San Paolo, where you find the transportation hub connecting the Roma Porta San Paolo station, metro line B Piramide stop, and Rome Ostiense station.

When to Get There

One of the biggest draws of Aventine Hill is its sweeping views, so try to visit on a day with clear skies for the best photos.

The Founding of Rome and the Battle of the Hills

It is said that brothers Romulus and Remus each chose a hilltop on which to found the new city of Rome. While Remus chose the Aventine Hill, it was Romulus on nearby Palatine Hill who saw more divine signs and who went on to found the Eternal City.

Ways to explore

Due to its role in Rome’s history and legends, several tours focused on ancient Rome include Aventine Hill, alongside such landmarks as Appian Way (Via Appia Antica) and the Aurelian Walls. Aventine Hill is less visited than Rome’s other ancient sites, giving it a hidden gem feel, and it’s free to explore independently. There are two gardens: an orange garden, open year-round, and a rose garden, open from late April through mid-June and in October. You can explore the seven hills of Rome by Vespa scooter or e-bike, or combine a visit with Circus Maximus and the Baths of Caracalla.

Accessibility

Aventine Hill is wheelchair accessible.

Age limits

None

What to pack

Camera, sunscreen

What to wear

Most of the sights on Aventine are outdoors, so wear a hat and light clothing in summer and dress warmly in winter.

Not allowed

Uncovered knees and shoulders, as modest dress is required to enter the Basilica of Santa Sabina, perched atop the hill.

Address

Aventine Hill is the southernmost of Rome’s seven hills and is close to Circo Massimo.

Driving

You could drive to Aventine Hill, but Roman traffic can be stressful. Hail a taxi or book a rideshare service instead.

Public transportation

Aventine Hill is around a 15-minute walk from Circo Massimo, which is on Metro Line B. Alternatively, bus lines 81, 175, 628, 715, and 810 stop nearby.

Best times to visit

Visit in the early morning or late afternoon for the best light and fewest visitors, particularly at the keyhole.

Best days to visit

Weekdays are typically quieter than weekends.

Best months to visit

Spring and fall promise the best weather without the heat or crowds of summer.