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As one of the world’s most breathtaking destinations, the Eternal City draws over 10 million visitors each year with its timeless beauty, from ancient ruins to Renaissance masterpieces. Whether you have just one day or an entire week, this guide will help you make the most of your time. Below, you'll find hour-by-hour itineraries for […]
As one of the world’s most breathtaking destinations, the Eternal City draws over 10 million visitors each year with its timeless beauty, from ancient ruins to Renaissance masterpieces. Whether you have just one day or an entire week, this guide will help you make the most of your time.
Below, you'll find hour-by-hour itineraries for shorter visits and expanded activities for longer stays, plus hotel recommendations for every budget—so you can experience Rome, your way.
If you only have 24 hours in Rome, focus on the city’s most iconic landmarks. Getting around efficiently is key, but with pre-booked tickets and smart planning, you can make the most of your time. Here’s an hour-by-hour guide to help you navigate the Eternal City.
9:00 AM - 11:00 AM: Colosseum and Roman Forum
Start your day at the Colosseum, the iconic symbol of ancient Rome. Book a timed entry ticket (€18) to skip the lines (opens at 8:30 AM, closes at 4:30 PM) and spend about 1.5 hours exploring its massive arena and underground passages. Then, walk over to the Roman Forum, included in the same ticket, and spend another hour wandering through the ruins of ancient temples, markets, and government buildings.
11:00 AM - 12:00 PM: Pantheon
Head to the Pantheon, a stunning piece of Roman architecture famous for its massive dome (€5 entry, open 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM, last entry 6:45 PM). Spend about an hour inside, taking in the incredible design and visiting Raphael’s tomb.
12:00 PM - 1:00 PM: Lunch
Enjoy a quick lunch at a nearby trattoria, such as Ristorante Roscioli near Campo de’ Fiori, where a pasta dish costs around €15 and coffee is €3.
1:00 PM - 3:00 PM: Vatican Museums
Take a taxi or metro to the Vatican Museums (€20 entry, open Mon-Sat 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM, last entry at 4:00 PM). Spend two hours exploring highlights like the Sistine Chapel, and be sure to enter by 2:00 PM to make the most of your visit.
3:00 PM - 4:00 PM: St. Peter’s Basilica
Walk to St. Peter’s Basilica, which is free to enter (open 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM in summer, 6:30 PM in winter). Spend about an hour inside, taking in the stunning interior and admiring Michelangelo’s Pietà up close.
4:00 PM - 5:00 PM: Trevi Fountain
Take a taxi to the Trevi Fountain, which is open 24/7 and free to visit. Snap some photos and toss a coin over your shoulder—the legend says it guarantees a return to Rome! Plan to spend about an hour, but keep in mind it can get pretty crowded.
5:00 PM - 6:00 PM: Spanish Steps
Stroll to the Spanish Steps for a scenic view and a gelato (around €5 at nearby Gelateria del Teatro).
6:00 PM - 7:00 PM: Dinner
End with dinner in the city center, such as at Trattoria Luzzi near the Colosseum, where a meal costs €20-30, including wine.
This itinerary hits the must-see spots, but keep in mind that some places are spread out (like the Vatican to Trevi Fountain—about 30 minutes by taxi), so efficient transport is key. Pre-booking tickets is a must to skip long lines, especially at the Colosseum and Vatican Museums.
With two to three days, you can take your time, go beyond the main sights, and explore neighborhoods like Trastevere, along with more museums. Here’s a suggested plan:
Morning: Follow the 1-day morning itinerary (Colosseum, Roman Forum, Pantheon).
Afternoon: Visit Trevi Fountain and Spanish Steps, then explore Piazza Navona (free, open 24/7) for street performers.
Evening: Have dinner in Trastevere which is very-well known for its vibrant atmosphere. You can also try Trattoria da Zi Umberto, where carbonara costs €15 and a glass of wine is €5.
Morning: Spend three unforgettable hours at the Vatican Museums (entry €20), marveling at masterpieces like Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel ceiling and the stunning Raphael Rooms.
Afternoon: Visit St. Peter’s Basilica, then head to the Borghese Gallery (entry around €13) to spend a couple of hours admiring Bernini’s incredible sculptures up close.
Evening: Stroll through Villa Borghese gardens (free, open dawn to dusk) or dine at a rooftop bar like Terrazza Borromini for city views (cocktail around €15).
Morning: Explore the Catacombs of San Sebastiano (entry €12, open 9:15 AM-5:15 PM) or Ostia Antica for a day trip (entry €18, open daily from 8:30 AM, with closing hours varying by season).
Afternoon: Take a food tour in Testaccio where you can try local cheeses and wines (tour cost around €60).
Evening: Attend a concert at the Auditorium Parco della Musica (ticket prices vary) or relax with gelato.
Surprisingly, Rome’s public transport, including metro and buses, is efficient for these distances, making day trips like Ostia Antica (about 40 minutes by train) feasible without a car.
With four to seven days, you can explore Rome in depth, including day trips and less-visited sites, ensuring a relaxed pace. Here’s a detailed plan:
Morning: Explore Campo de’ Fiori market (free, open 7:00 AM-2:00 PM) where you can buy fresh produce or souvenirs—coffee at a stall is €2, snacks are around €5.
Afternoon: Explore the Capitoline Museums, home to an incredible collection of ancient Roman sculptures, Renaissance art, and breathtaking views over the city from Piazza del Campidoglio (entry €14–16, open 9:30 AM-7:30 PM).
Evening: Dinner at a rooftop restaurant like La Terrazza at Hotel Eden (meal around €50, cocktail €15).
Full Day: Take a day trip to Pompeii, where you can wander through ancient ruins frozen in time. The train from Rome takes about 2 hours each way, and entry is €18 (open 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM). Or, hop on a high-speed train to Florence—just 1.5 hours away—for a day of Renaissance art, stunning architecture, and great food.
Evening: Return to Rome for dinner.
Morning: Visit the Baths of Caracalla (entry €14, open 9:00 AM-7:15 PM) and explore the ruins of ancient Roman baths.
Afternoon: Walk the Appian Way (Via Appia Antica), one of Rome’s oldest roads, once used by ancient armies and traders, now lined with historic tombs. Stop by the San Callisto Catacombs (9:30 AM–12 PM, 2–5 PM, closed Wednesdays) to explore underground burial chambers.
Evening: Attend a performance at the Terme di Caracalla (ticket prices vary, check this website).
Morning: Tour Villa d’Este in Tivoli (entry €15, open 8:30 AM from Tuesday- Sunday), famous for its fountains.
Afternoon: Visit Hadrian’s Villa (entry €10, open 8:15 AM-5:15 PM), a UNESCO site.
Evening: Return to Rome for dinner, perhaps at a traditional osteria like Roscioli (meal around €30).
Morning: Relax at a spa like De Russie Spa, where you can opt for a Day Spa Pass (€45) for full access to the facilities. If you prefer something more hands-on, try Eating Europe’s Trastevere Pasta Making Class. This 3-hour experience starts at €85 for adults, with discounts for kids.
Afternoon: Pack and prepare for departure.
Evening: A farewell dinner at a favorite spot would be the perfect way to wrap up the trip.
The longer you stay, the more you can truly experience Rome—walking through ancient ruins, admiring Renaissance masterpieces, and soaking in the city’s unique atmosphere. With extra time, you can also take exciting day trips to places like Pompeii, Florence, or Tivoli, adding even more depth to your journey.
No matter your budget, Rome offers a variety of accommodations, all within easy reach of its most famous landmarks. From luxury hotels with rooftop terraces overlooking the city to charming boutique stays and budget-friendly options near top attractions, there’s something for every traveler. Here are three great choices to consider:
Hotel de Russie, a Rocco Forte Hotel
Located near the Spanish Steps, this 5-star hotel offers luxurious rooms, a secret garden, and exceptional service. With an average price of $1,623, this option is ideal for those seeking a luxurious and indulgent experience.
Hotel d'Inghilterra Roma
Also near the Spanish Steps, this 5-star hotel blends historic charm with modern amenities, perfect for business travelers. Starting at $414 per night, this option combines elegance with convenience for a refined stay.
Hotel Navona
Hotel Navona, set in a beautifully restored 15th-century building adorned with original frescoes, offers a unique blend of history and charm. Tucked just behind the stunning Church of Sant'Ivo alla Sapienza, it places you right in the heart of Rome’s historic center. With an average price of $173 per room, it’s a charming and convenient stay.
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