22 European towns where you can view Roman ruins

The most obvious city kicks off this list. The capital of the Roman Empire is home to a long list of sites. Visit the Colosseum (but get there early as the lines can get very long, especially in summer) and the Pantheon to start. And don’t miss Palatine Hill, the Roman Forum, Catacombs, and Circus Maximus (a chariot stadium turned public park.)

This small town in Provence is located about a 20-minute train ride from Avignon. And it’s home to one of the best preserved ancient theaters and a mini-Arc de Triomphe, with none of the crowds of the one in Paris. 

The largest city on the Istria peninsula houses a giant Roman arena. It’s best known as the last one standing with fully intact walls. It's definitely worth a stop!

Another town in Provence with a fantastic arena, Arles is sure to delight with some of the best Roman ruins in France. The amphitheater is the most famous and impressive site, but plenty of smaller ones exist. There is a great smaller theater in the city center, a Roman circus outside of town, and Roman baths.

Germany might not be the first country that comes to mind when you think of the Romans, but it is home to one of the best-preserved Roman cities, Trier. Upon entering the old city, you’ll see what I mean as you walk through a massive entrance gate called the “Porta Nigra” or “Black Gate.” Further into town, there are Roman baths and an amphitheater. Additionally, the Empire originally built the Moselle Bridge across the river.

A 20-minute train ride from Lyon is the small city of Vienne, home to a surprising amount of Roman ruins. The Temple of Augustus and Livia is located in the city center and surrounded by cafes and shops — a funny juxtaposition. Additionally, the giant theater, odeon (smaller theater), and archeological garden all paint a picture of an ancient society.

One of the few non-beach destinations in southern Albania, the archeological park in Burtint is one of the most impressive in Europe. Make sure to allow at least half a day to enjoy the ancient city.

Pompeii is just south of Naples and almost as famous as Rome. The formerly thriving Roman city was covered in ash when Mount Vesuvius erupted centuries ago. Today, you can visit the site frozen in time after the volcanic eruption.

The large Roman theater is just one of the amazing sites you can visit in Cartagena. The southeastern city was home to numerous civilizations throughout the centuries, and you’ll see impressive ruins from different points in history throughout town.

On Turkey’s Mediterranean coast is the lovely town called Ephesus. Once a Roman stronghold, today, you can visit the giant amphitheater, the agora, aqueducts, and the library of Celsus.

In the north of Cyprus lies a unique Roman artifact: underground ruins. Visitors can explore a small site, but the majority is still awaiting excavation. Scuba diving requires a licensed guide to view the underwater remains.

Most travelers head to Split to hop on a ferry to the islands. However, I recommend you stay at least a night and wander the impressively repurposed Diocletian’s Palace in the Old Town. The center is basically half the old palace, where people still live (some cute Airbnbs can be found here) and operate businesses.

The town of Romeo and Juliet also has great Roman ruins. The Porta Leoni (Leoni Bridge) and small arena make for nice stops along any city tour.

Like Arles, Nimes has an impressive arena that visitors should check out. Additionally, the Maison Carée or Square House is as impressive as the Pantheon in Rome.

Not far from the border with Greece is charming Bitola. And just south of it is the former Roman city of Heraclea Lyncestis. It's the perfect half-day trip for those interested in history.

The Roman Temple is the main site from this period of time and is in a central location in Córdoba. You should also check out the Roman Bridge.

Yes, the Romans crossed the English Channel! One of their strongholds was in Wales. Today, you can visit Isca Augusta, an old fortress not far from Newport. Also known as Caerleon.

This 73-mile-long wall in the north of England was built to protect the northwestern frontier of the Empire. Today, you can hike along it and walk in the footsteps of the Romans.

In northeastern Greece, not far from Turkey, lies a massive archeological park of Roman ruins. Philippi used to be the link from Europe to Asia during Roman times. Today, visitors can explore the city's remains.

Segovia's most famous site is the well-preserved aqueduct, one of the Roman's most advanced inventions. 

This old Roman fort just north of Frankfurt is an impressive reconstruction. It makes for a great day trip for Roman Empire enthusiasts!

And finally, the English town named for its ruins, Bath is most famous for its ancient Baths. Very well-preserved and next to an old temple, both are must-visits!