Introduction
Only got a weekend in Rome? No problem — with smart planning, you can experience the best of the Eternal City in just two days. This 2-day Rome itinerary hits the must-see landmarks, local gems, and a few unforgettable moments, giving you a perfect mix of culture, food, and atmosphere.
🗓️ Day 1 – Ancient Rome & Baroque Beauty
☀️ Morning: The Classics
- Colosseum: Start early to beat the crowds (book a skip-the-line ticket)
- Roman Forum & Palatine Hill: Walk through ancient Rome’s political heart
Pro Tip: Join a guided tour or grab an audio guide for deeper context
🍝 Lunch in Monti
- Grab a panini or pizza al taglio (by the slice)
- Try a trattoria like La Carbonara for Roman classics
🕍 Afternoon: Pantheon & Piazzas
- Explore Piazza Venezia, then walk to the Pantheon (free entry!)
- Continue to Piazza Navona and admire the fountains and street artists
- Grab a gelato from Gelateria del Teatro
🌅 Evening: Trevi Fountain + Spanish Steps
- Visit Trevi Fountain at dusk (fewer crowds, more magic)
- Toss in a coin for good luck
- End the night at the Spanish Steps, followed by drinks in Campo de’ Fiori or Trastevere
🗓️ Day 2 – Vatican & Local Flavors
☀️ Morning: Vatican City
- St. Peter’s Basilica: Free entry, climb the dome for epic views
- Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel: Book in advance to skip the massive lines
🍝 Lunch in Prati
- Eat at Pastasciutta or grab an aperitivo in a quiet side street
- Try a Roman specialty like cacio e pepe or amatriciana
🖼️ Afternoon: Hidden Gems & Parks
- Head to the Capitoline Museums or stroll through Villa Borghese Gardens
- Rent a bike or relax with a view from the Pincian Terrace
🌇 Evening: Sunset & Farewell Dinner
- Watch the sunset from Gianicolo Hill or Orange Garden
- Dinner in Trastevere — go for a slow meal and people-watching
- End with a night walk past lit-up landmarks or a final gelato stop
📌 Bonus Tips
- Use a 72-hour Roma Pass if you’re visiting multiple museums
- Download offline maps to avoid getting lost
- Book popular sites in advance to save time