Location and Access

The Terrace of Quadrigas sits at the highest level of the Vittoriano, flanked by the two giant bronze quadrigas with Winged Victories. Access is via the panoramic lift on the left side of the monument (facing the façade), at a cost of approximately €7. The lift travels from street level to the summit in about one minute.

The terrace is generally open Tuesday to Sunday; closed on Monday. Exact times vary: consult the official website or check on site.

What You Can See

From the Terrace of Quadrigas, the view opens to 360°. The main landmarks visible:

To the east: The Roman Forum, with the columns of the Temple of Saturn, the Arch of Septimius Severus and, in the background, the Colosseum. From here you understand the topography of the ancient forum relative to the modern city better than from any other angle.

To the north: Piazza del Popolo, the Pincio, Villa Borghese. On clear days, the Sabine Hills beyond the city.

To the west: The dome of St Peter's rises sharply on the horizon, separated from the rest of the city by the invisible Tiber. The distance — approximately 3 kilometres as the crow flies — does nothing to diminish the visual impact.

To the south: The Aventine Hill, Palatine Hill, Circus Maximus, and on the clearest days, the Castelli Romani on the horizon.

Looking down: Piazza Venezia appears as a theatrical stage set: the surrounding palaces, the chaotic traffic, and the Via dei Fori Imperiali extending towards the Colosseum like an arrow drawn through the modern city.

The Quadrigas Up Close

On the terrace you stand just metres from the two bronze quadrigas — works by Carlo Fontana and Paul Bartlett. These are among the largest bronze sculptures produced in the nineteenth century using the lost-wax technique. At this distance you appreciate the quality of the detail: the horses' muscles, the Victories' wings, the craftsmanship of the reins.

Each quadriga weighs several tonnes. They were originally gilded; the oxidised bronze visible today is the result of more than a century of exposure to the elements.

The Best Time to Visit

  • Early morning (09:30–10:30): soft lateral light, minimal crowds, peaceful atmosphere
  • Sunset (18:00–19:00, varies by season): golden light on the domes is photographically extraordinary; crowds increase
  • Windy days: clear air after rain or wind extends visibility to the surrounding mountains (Castelli Romani, Sabine Hills, Apennines)
  • Avoid: central summer hours (heat, haze, maximum crowds)

Comparison with Other Rome Panoramic Viewpoints

ViewpointCostView
Terrace of Quadrigas~€7360°, complete historic centre
Pincio (terraces)FreePiazza del Popolo, northern Rome
GianicoloFreeWestern Rome, St Peter's dome
Castel Sant'Angelo (terrace)~€15Tiber, St Peter's, north-west
St Peter's dome~€8Northern Rome, circular panorama

The Terrace of Quadrigas is the only point from which the Roman Forum, the Colosseum and the dome of St Peter's are all simultaneously visible with clarity.

With a Private Driver

Reach the Vittoriano by private driver. From your hotel, airport or station — direct and on time. Service from €49. → Book at myromedriver.com

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the panoramic lift suitable for those with claustrophobia or vertigo? The lift is enclosed but not cramped; the terrace at the top is open and spacious. Those with mild vertigo should have no problems: the terrace has solid parapets and does not create a feeling of "empty space underfoot".

Can children be brought up? Yes, children are admitted. The parapets are high enough to ensure safety; vigilance with small children is naturally recommended.

Is it really worth the €7? For first-time visitors to Rome, absolutely. It is the best investment for understanding the city's geography and fixing the relative position of the main monuments in your memory.

Article no. 185 — TIER S — MON-10 Altare della Patria / Vittoriano Type: PRACTICAL Words: ~640

See also