Planning a trip to Rome and wondering how to make the most of your limited time? This 2-day Rome itinerary is designed to help you experience the best of the Eternal City, from its ancient ruins and iconic landmarks to its vibrant neighborhoods and delicious cuisine. Whether you’re a history buff, an art lover, or a foodie, this guide will ensure you see the highlights and hidden gems of Rome in just 48 hours.
Day 1: Ancient Rome and the Heart of the City
Morning:
- Colosseum: A must stop when you visit Rome is the iconic Colosseum. It is recommended that you start your day early here. This will allow you to beat the crowds and immerse yourself in the history of gladiators and ancient Roman spectacles. It is strongly recommended that you consider booking a guided tour to understand the history, context, details and wonder of the ancient ruins.
Find a guided Colosseum tour.
Book a guided tour of the Colosseum and Roman Forum. - Roman Forum and Palatine Hill: Just a short walk from the Colosseum, and often part of a guided tour, is the ability to explore the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill, which is filled with even more wonder of Ancient Rome. Wander through the ruins of ancient government buildings, temples, and marketplaces. The Palatine Hill offers stunning views of the city and a glimpse into Rome’s legendary founding.
Book a guided tour of the Colosseum and Roman Forum.
Lunch:
- Contrario Vineria Con Cucina: Located a few blocks from the Colosseum but away from the tourists, this contemporary restaurant blends traditional Roman cuisine with innovative twists, with a focus on high-quality ingredients and an extensive wine selection.
Afternoon:
- Piazza Venezia and the Vittoriano: Head towards Piazza Venezia and marvel at the grand Vittoriano monument. You can take an elevator to the top for one of the best panoramic views of Rome.
- Pantheon: Walk to the Pantheon, one of Rome’s best-preserved ancient buildings. The architectural marvel of its dome and the serene interior make it a must-visit. That said, it can be shocking when you arrive to find line-ups of hundreds of people snaked around the square. But once again, those who plan well are rewarded and we recommend buying fast-track entry tickets ahead of time.
Fast-track entry to the Pantheon - Piazza Navona: Stroll to Piazza Navona, a lively square filled with street artists, fountains, and cafes. Admire the stunning Fountain of the Four Rivers by Bernini. If you find yourself wanting to get out of the sun, we recommend visiting the Stadio di Domiziano, located beneath Piazza Navona, offers a unique glimpse into ancient Roman athletic history, with ruins dating back to 80 AD1. The underground site, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, features well-preserved remains of the first and only masonry stadium in Roman history.
Book your ticket for Stadio di Domiziano
Dinner:
- Da Francesco: End your day with a delightful dinner at Da Francesco, known for its delicious and authentic pizzas and pasta dishes.
Day 2: Vatican City and Trastevere
Morning:
- Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel: Start your day at the Vatican Museums. Marvel at the extensive art collections, including the breathtaking Sistine Chapel ceiling painted by Michelangelo. With only two days in Rome, you want to ensure you are able to see the sites most important to you and avoid wasting time standing in line for hours. To ensure you are able to get in to the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel, we strongly recommend booking tickets in advance to skip the long lines.
Find a tour/skip the line ticket for the Vatican Museums/Sistine Chapel/St. Peter’s Basilica - St. Peter’s Basilica: Visit St. Peter’s Basilica, one of the largest and most beautiful churches in the world. Don’t miss the chance to climb to the top of the dome for a spectacular view of Vatican City and Rome.
Lunch:
- Osteria delle Commari: Located near the Vatican, enjoy a lunch at this well regarded Osteria serving traditional and authentic Italian dishes.
Afternoon:
- Castel Sant’Angelo: Walk along the Tiber River to Castel Sant’Angelo. This historic fortress offers fascinating exhibits and stunning views from its terrace.
- Trastevere: This is absolutely a neighborhood not to be missed. Cross the river to the charming neighborhood of Trastevere known for its narrow cobblestone streets and vibrant atmosphere. With its colorful buildings, lively piazzas, and delicious trattorias, it offers a glimpse of authentic Roman life. The area is particularly enchanting at sunset, when the golden light dances on the ancient facades, creating a magical ambiance perfect for strolling and savoring the local cuisine..
Dinner:
- Osteria da Zi Umberto: End your Roman adventure with a traditional meal at Osteria da Zi Umberto in Trastevere. Savor local specialties like saltimbocca alla romana or supplì.
Evening:
- Piazza Trilussa: After dinner, relax at Piazza Trilussa, a popular spot for locals and visitors alike. Enjoy a gelato and take in the lively ambiance of Trastevere at night.
I hope this itinerary helps you make the most of your two days in Rome! If you have any specific interests or preferences, feel free to let me know, and I can tailor the itinerary further. Buon viaggio!
