Chiesa di Santa Maria in Aracoeli (couple trip)
How Couple-Friendly is Chiesa di Santa Maria in Aracoeli?
What makes it 78% Couple-Friendly: The long marble staircase, panoramic city view, and candlelit chapels create a romantic mood, yet absence of seating and many stairs can tire less active pairs.
Positives:
- Free entry: No ticket fee means more budget for local dining or souvenirs.
- Central location: On Capitoline Hill, it’s a short walk from the Roman Forum and other landmarks.
Challenges:
- 124-step climb: Wear comfortable shoes; the staircase can be tiring without breaks.
- Limited on-site information: Interior lacks detailed plaques—consider a guidebook or app for context.
What is Chiesa di Santa Maria in Aracoeli?
- A 13th-century basilica perched atop Capitoline Hill, approached by a 124-step marble staircase
- Interior adorned with Pinturicchio’s vivid frescoes, Cavallini’s mosaics, a coffered ceiling and Cosmatesque marble floors
- Home to the Santo Bambino, a 15th-century wooden statue of the infant Jesus revered in Renaissance Rome
What is so special about Chiesa di Santa Maria in Aracoeli for couple trip?
- Climb together for sweeping panoramic views.
- Discover rare Pinturicchio frescoes in near-quiet surroundings.
- Share a moment lighting a candle at the Santo Bambino chapel.
- Enjoy free access and a romantic spot atop Capitoline Hill.
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for couple trip: Couples can climb the steps, explore the church, and join a sunset tour without rushing.
Couple-Friendly Activities in Chiesa di Santa Maria in Aracoeli
Ascend the marble staircase:
Climb the 124-step Scalinata d’Aracoeli for panoramic views over Rome’s rooftops and domes.
Tip: Start in late afternoon for softer light and fewer visitors on the steps.
Admire Pinturicchio’s frescoes:
Explore the Bufalini Chapel to see 15th-century frescoes by Pinturicchio and a Cosmatesque floor.
Tip: Use a handheld mirror to inspect high fresco details without craning your neck.
Light a candle at Santo Bambino:
Visit the Santo Bambino chapel to see the famed figure of baby Jesus said to heal the sick.
Tip: Bring a small donation of around €2 and pause for a quiet moment together.
Join a sunset walking tour:
Book a 'Views of Rome' small-group tour for guided history and sunset vistas from the church entrance.
Tip: Reserve your spot online in advance to guarantee a sunset slot.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Chiesa di Santa Maria in Aracoeli
- Arrive early: Be at the base by 9 AM to beat midday heat and crowds on the stairs.
- Use bus 87 or 810: Take public transport to Cordonata Capitolina to shorten your uphill walk.
Reviews of Chiesa di Santa Maria in Aracoeli
Motostine Collective
Santa Maria in Aracoeli Basilica is truly one of Rome’s hidden gems. Sitting atop the Capitoline Hill, the climb up the steps is absolutely worth it the moment you walk inside. The interior is breathtaking—rich history, stunning frescoes, beautiful marble floors, and a peaceful, reverent atmosphere that makes you pause and take it all in. It feels less crowded than some of Rome’s more famous churc...
Brad
Santa Maria in Aracoeli is a large church at the summit of Capitoline Hill that is accessed by way of a fairly long staircase leading up from the street below. The church is known for holding the relics of Emperor Constantine's mother, Helena. Opening hours are 7.30am to 7pm daily. Historically, there have been church structures here since the Middle Ages, built upon the more ancient temple sites...
Sidónio Sousa
WOW, just WOW! The stairs will almost kill you but it's well worth it. The church inside is gorgeous, all the hanging chandeliers create such a nice altar and the view from the top is quite amazing as well. Don't miss the small entrance on the side that takes you to The Holy Baby (Santo Bambino)
Мирко Вукославовић
Open for all christians of Europe this year. Marian church is a prime example of Romanesque grandeur. The ceilings, thombs in beautiful sculptures, keep past and pray for many. Or those who want to believe. Magnificent entrance. Stairway to heaven Italian way. Pray even if you don't have anyone to call to.
Zen Cheung
As a side trip, this monastery requires an effort to climb over a hundred steps to reach. While the overall decoration is not overly ornate, the overall structure and exhibits inside are unique and meaningful. In particular, you can see the golden-covered Christ Child in the inner hall, which is quite unique. If you go around dusk, you can take some great photos in the light!
When is the best time to visit Chiesa di Santa Maria in Aracoeli (Rome, Italy)?
In summer, visit before 10 AM or after 5 PM to avoid heat on the steps. In winter, pair with nearby indoor sites like the Capitoline Museums for a warm follow-up visit.
Explore These Activities
Typical Budget for a Couple (2 Adults)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Free entry | EUR 0 |
| Votive candle donation | EUR 2 |
| 'Views of Rome' walking tour (2 pax) | EUR 85 |
| Total Estimated | EUR 87 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve
Map of Chiesa di Santa Maria in Aracoeli
Address: Scala dell'Arce Capitolina, 12, 00186 Roma RM, Italy
Map will load when you scroll here
Scroll down to view the interactive map
Looking for other Things to Do besides Chiesa di Santa Maria in Aracoeli (Rome)?
About Chiesa di Santa Maria in Aracoeli
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Website
Official WebsitePhone Number
+39 06 6976 383910 BEST nearby Activities
Explore Popular Things to Do
🇺🇸 United States, couple trip
🇬🇧 United Kingdom, couple trip
How You Can Support Us
If our website helps you, please support us by booking your travel needs through this link: Book Flights, Hotels, Activities on Trip.com - New App User Promo up to 10% OFF. We may earn a small affiliate commission - at no extra cost to you!
It's a simple way to help us keep the site running and improving for everyone. Thanks for your support!
10 BEST nearby Activities