Rome 2 Day Itinerary

Day 1: Ancient Rome and Vatican City

Morning

  • 8:00 AM - Breakfast: Start your day with a delicious Italian breakfast at Caffè Greco (Via Condotti, 86), a historic café in the heart of Rome.
  • 9:00 AM - Colosseum ( Metro: Colosseo): Explore the iconic amphitheater, one of Rome’s most famous landmarks. Learn about its history and significance with an audio guide or guided tour.

Afternoon

  • 12:00 PM - Lunch: Head to Trattoria al Moro (Via della Lungaretta, 13) for a traditional Italian lunch. Try their signature dish, Carbonara.
  • 1:30 PM - Roman Forum (Metro: Colosseo): Wander through the ancient ruins of the Roman Empire, featuring temples, basilicas, and markets.
  • 3:30 PM - Pantheon (Piazza della Rotonda): Marvel at this magnificently preserved ancient temple with an impressive dome.

Evening

  • 6:00 PM - Dinner: Enjoy a romantic dinner at La Rosetta (Piazza del Popolo, 18), offering refined Italian cuisine in a beautiful setting.
  • 8:00 PM - Explore Piazza Navona (Metro: Spagna): Admire the beautiful baroque fountains and stroll through this charming square.

Accommodation

  • Hotel: Stay at Hotel Art (Via Margutta, 54), a stylish boutique hotel with comfortable rooms and a relaxing atmosphere.
  • Alternative: Consider staying in an Airbnb apartment in the historic center to experience living like a local.

Things to Know

  • Buy tickets for the Colosseum and Roman Forum online in advance to avoid long lines.
  • Wear comfortable shoes for a day of walking on cobblestone streets.
  • Be prepared for crowds and long lines at popular attractions.

Transportation

  • Metro: Rome’s metro system is efficient and convenient. Buy a daily ticket (€6) or a 3-day pass (€16.50).
  • Walking: Rome is a walkable city, but be mindful of uneven pavement and cobblestone streets.
  • Taxis: Available, but not always easy to hail.

Tips

  • Learn some basic Italian phrases to show respect for the culture.
  • Don’t eat at touristy restaurants; instead, opt for local trattorias or osterias.
  • Be aware of pickpocketing in crowded areas and keep valuables secure.

Day 2: Vatican City and Beyond

Morning

  • 8:00 AM - Breakfast: Start the day with a cornetto (similar to a croissant) and cappuccino at Bar Pasticceria Regoli (Via della Lungaretta, 23).
  • 9:00 AM - Vatican Museums (Metro: Ottaviano-San Pietro): Explore the Sistine Chapel and other incredible museums with a guided tour or audio guide.

Afternoon

  • 12:30 PM - Lunch: Head to La Villetta (Via dei Bastioni di Michelangelo, 5) for a delicious lunch in a charming setting.
  • 2:00 PM - St. Peter’s Basilica (Metro: Ottaviano-San Pietro): Marvel at the stunning architecture and artwork of this iconic basilica.
  • 4:00 PM - Castel Sant’Angelo ( Metro: Lepanto): Explore this ancient fortress with stunning views of the city.

Evening

  • 7:00 PM - Dinner: Enjoy a cozy dinner at Il Pagliaccio (Via dei Banchi Vecchi, 129), offering refined Italian cuisine.
  • 9:00 PM - Explore Trastevere (Metro: Trastevere): Wander through this charming neighborhood, known for its narrow streets, lively piazzas, and beautiful churches.

Things to Know

  • The Vatican Museums are closed on Sundays, except for the last Sunday of each month.
  • Wear modest clothing when visiting the Vatican City.
  • Be prepared for crowds at popular attractions.

Additional Tips

  • Consider purchasing a Roma Pass, which grants access to several attractions and public transportation.
  • Don’t forget to validate your metro ticket before boarding.
  • Take breaks in scenic piazzas or parks to rest and people-watch.

This itinerary provides a well-rounded experience of Rome’s history, culture, and beauty. Buon viaggio!