Rome in 2 Days: A First-Timer’s Ultimate Guide

All Roads Lead to Rome

Rome, with its history of over 2,000 years, is like a giant open-air museum.
Everywhere you go, you’ll find reminders of the past.

From the amazing Colosseum, where gladiators once fought, to the impressive Pantheon,
Rome’s buildings tell stories of old emperors, artists, and philosophers.
The Vatican City, home to the breathtaking St. Peter’s Basilica and the Sistine Chapel
adorned with Michelangelo’s masterpieces, showcases the city’s spiritual and artistic legacy.

But Rome isn’t just about ancient ruins. Its lively squares, busy markets, and cozy streets
let you see how Romans live today. Enjoy delicious Italian food, from fresh pasta to tasty gelato,
in the many restaurants and cafes around the city.

Rome is a city where the past and present come together, offering a unique and beautiful experience. Join me as we explore the Eternal City, discovering its amazing sights and vibrant culture.

Getting to Rome

Whether you’re traveling by train or plane, reaching Rome is straightforward.
The city has two major airports: Fiumicino (Leonardo da Vinci) and Ciampino.

Fiumicino is the larger of the two, serving most international flights, while Ciampino handles many budget airlines. Both airports offer convenient transportation options to the city center.

If you prefer traveling by train, Rome’s central station, Termini, is a major hub
with high-speed connections to other Italian cities like Florence, Milan, and Naples.

How many days do you need to visit Rome?

Rome’s compact and walkable layout allows you to experience its main attractions in just 2 days. However, during peak season, long lines at popular sites like museums and churches are common.
To make the most of your visit and avoid waiting, it’s smart to purchase tickets online in advance, especially for key spots like the Vatican Museums and the Colosseum.

While 2 days will cover the highlights, extending your stay will let you fully immerse yourself
in the city’s vibrant atmosphere and discover its hidden gems.

How to Get Around Rome

Getting around Rome is convenient, thanks to its well-connected public transportation system
and various alternative options. The city’s extensive network of buses, trams, and metro lines
makes it easy to navigate between attractions. For convenience, consider purchasing a
Roma Pass, which offers unlimited travel on public transport and discounts on major attractions.

Beyond public transport, you can explore Rome in style and comfort. Renting an e-bike is a
popular choice for covering longer distances quickly, while Segway tours offer a fun and
efficient way to see the city’s highlights.

For a more classic Roman experience, renting a Vespa lets you zip through the streets with ease. Alternatively, hop-on hop-off bus tours provide a flexible way to visit key sights at your own pace.

Most of Rome’s monuments are conveniently located within 5 km of the city center,
making it easy to explore on foot. However, to visit St. Peter’s Basilica,
which is slightly farther out, you’ll need to take the metro.

First, hop on metro line A and get off at the Ottaviano stop.
From there, it’s a short walk to the stunning St. Peter’s Basilica.

St. Peter’s Basilica [Basilica di San Pietro]

Before the current basilica, there was an older one built in the 4th century by Emperor Constantine.
It is believed that St. Peter, the first apostle of Jesus, was buried there after his crucifixion.

At St. Peter’s Basilica, you can see numerous funerary monuments of the popes,
the famous statue of St. Peter, and the beautiful dome designed by Michelangelo.

To reach the top of the dome, take an elevator partway, then climb 323 steps.
Be prepared for low ceilings and narrow corridors on your way up.

Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel [Musei Vaticani e Cappella Sistina ]

The Vatican Museums feature over 50 galleries showcasing masterpieces by artists
like Leonardo da Vinci, Raphael, and Caravaggio. Must-see rooms include the “Raphael Rooms,”
the “Sistine Chapel” painted by Michelangelo, the “Maps Hall,” and the “School of Athens.”

Make the most of your visit to the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel with
skip-the-line tickets, ensuring you spend less time waiting and more time immersed
in the awe-inspiring art and history of these world-renowned attractions.

Free admission on the last Sunday of each month from 09 – 14:00 (final entry at 12:30)

After visiting the Vatican, take a leisurely stroll along “Via della Conciliazione”
from St. Peter’s Square to reach Castel Sant’Angelo.

Castel Sant’Angelo

Built as a mausoleum by Roman Emperor Hadrian in the 2nd century AD, Castel Sant’Angelo
served as a fortress during the Middle Ages, offering refuge to popes during invasions.
It even has a direct passage from the Vatican. Later, it became the papal residence.

Today, Castel Sant’Angelo is a museum where you can explore its castle, tombs,
and the ancient papal apartments. Don’t miss the terrace for stunning city views.

Explore exclusive areas of Castel Sant’Angelo on a guided tour.

Ponte Sant’Angelo (Bridge of Angels)

Emperor Hadrian built Ponte Sant’Angelo in 134 AD to connect Ancient Rome
with his mausoleum. The bridge features ten angel statues along its sides,
designed by Bernini and mostly crafted by his students. Two original statues,
“angel with the crown of thorns” and “angel with the cartouche,” are now at
the church of Sant’Andrea delle Fratte in Rome, with replicas on the bridge.

Cross Ponte Sant’Angelo and enjoy a scenic 12-minute walk to Piazza Navona.

The streets surrounding Piazza Navona are filled with charming antique shops and
unique boutiques, showcasing a different side of Rome’s charm.

Piazza Navona

Located in Rome’s historic center, Piazza Navona is known as one of the city’s
most stunning squares. Originally the stadium of Domitian in ancient Rome, it now
captivates visitors with its Baroque splendor.

You’ll find three magnificent fountains adorning the square,
each a masterpiece of Baroque art:

Fountain of the Four Rivers
Fountain of Neptune
Fountain of the Moor

Behind the Fountain of the Four Rivers, you’ll find the stunning
church of Sant’Agnese in Agone, designed by the famous architect Borromini.
The church’s elegant façade and impressive interiors are a must-see.

Learn to make authentic fettuccine with local chefs in Piazza Navona.
Book now for an unforgettable Italian cooking class experience!

Afterward, take a leisurely 5-minute walk from Piazza Navona to the Pantheon,
one of Rome’s most iconic landmarks.

The Pantheon

Built by Agrippa in the 1st century BC as a temple honoring all gods,
the Pantheon was later rebuilt by Emperor Hadrian after a fire in 80 AD.

Inside, don’t miss the chance to admire its magnificent dome, a marvel of ancient engineering.
The Pantheon also houses the tombs of the renowned artist Raphael and the first king of Italy,
Vittorio Emanuele II, adding to its historical significance.

Experience the awe-inspiring Pantheon in Rome with skip-the-line access and a guided tour.

Stone Square [Piazza di Pietra]

Not far from Piazza della Rotonda lies Piazza di Pietra, named for the ancient temple ruins
dedicated to Emperor Hadrian, dating back to 145 AD.

From Piazza di Pietra, head straight ahead, crossing Via del Corso,
renowned for its shopping delights, until you reach the iconic Trevi Fountain.

Trevi Fountain [Fontana di Trevi]

The Trevi Fountain is one of Rome’s most renowned attractions, featured prominently in films
like “Roman Holiday” and “La Dolce Vita.”

Designed by Nicola Salvi in 1732 and completed by Giuseppe Panini, it’s backed by
the grand Baroque-style Palazzo Poli. Adorned with sculptures of Roman gods,
tritons, and sea horses, the centerpiece features Neptune in his chariot.

According to tradition, visitors toss two coins into the fountain:
one to ensure their return to Rome, and another to make a wish.

From the Trevi Fountain, follow Via del Lavatore until you reach Via del Traforo.
Turn left and continue straight, crossing Via del Tritone onto Via dei Due Macelli,
leading you directly to Piazza di Spagna.

Spanish steps [Piazza di Spagna]

Piazza di Spagna stands out as one of Rome’s most famous squares.
One of its main attractions is Via Condotti, lined with luxury boutiques like
Louis Vuitton, Prada, Gucci, Bulgari, and Ferragamo.

At the heart of the square lies the Barcaccia fountain, designed by Pietro Bernini and
completed by his son, Gian Lorenzo Bernini. Shaped like a boat, it sits gracefully in an oval pool.

Dominating the top of the famous Spanish Steps is the Trinità dei Monti church,
founded in 1495. From here, a stroll up the steps, followed by a left turn and straight walk,
leads you to the picturesque Pincio.

The Pincian hill [Pincio]

The terrace of Pincian Hill offers a stunning view of Piazza del Popolo. From here,
you can see Rome’s skyline, including St. Peter’s Basilica, the Quirinale Palace, and Gianicolo Hill.
It’s a perfect spot for photos, especially at sunset when the city glows with golden light.
Don’t forget your camera to capture these beautiful scenes!

Where to Stay in Rome