In fact
I stopped only in two regions (Rome and Naples).There are presumably the most important roman remains to see - at least in Western Europe. In the environment of Naples above all Pompeji and Herculaneum. Near Rome the former port Ostia. I looked up Rome to a former time.
Especially interesting are the different phases of development of the towns. In Paestum the Greek foundation is to be seen very clear due to the three temples. One sees the signs of the "Romanizing" simultaneous, however, for example with the forum. In Herculaneum and Pompeji on the other hand the Greek, respectively Osker origin is not visible. Here the townscape looks roman. Cumae is to be recognized on the other hand again as Greek. Ostia was finally set up by the Romans.
Interestingly at Pompeji, Herculaneum and Ostia is particularly that not only the foundation walls remained preserved. The houses and other buildings still are meter-high to a large part. This helps the imagination and helps also at future visits from foundation walls. Furthermore the found sculptures, mosaics and particularly mural paintings are to be mentioned of course. They show a high level of development of the art and an exquisite taste. Even though some works presumably have today a vulgar effect.
To get an idea about the original roman empire, it is a must to visit the mentioned three towns. The first and longest capital of the empire - Roma - appertains self-evident also to that.