rome one day walking tour

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One Day in Rome – Free Self-Guided Rome Walking Tour

If you only have one day in Rome, chances are you’re overwhelmed by the incredible options of what to see and do. The good news is, with this free walking tour of Rome you’ll see the top sights, with time to stop for a delicious gelato along the way.

First up though, have you considered which Rome attractions are on your bucket list?

If they include the Colosseum, the Roman Forum, the Trevi Fountain and Vatican City, you’ll see them and many more on this tour, with my recommendations for the easiest way to get around them all in a day.

So, all that’s left to do is pack your comfy walking shoes and get ready to explore the Eternal City in one magical day.

Table of Contents

Walking Map of Rome

The following Rome sightseeing map will lead you on an adventure across 1 day in Rome. It covers about 12 kilometres in total and winds through the city’s historic streets, via all those iconic attractions you don’t want to miss.

To make the most of the free Rome walking tour, it’s designed to allow enough time to properly discover each attraction but to keep moving towards the next in order to fit them in. However, if you can’t resist lingering over pizza, all you need to do is step up the pace.

How to Spend One day in Rome

Your self-guided walking tour of Rome starts and ends at Termini Train Station. It follows an exciting path to the Colosseum first and moves on to cover all the top things to see in Rome, before taking you back around to the Trevi Fountain and the station.

However, if the Vatican Museums are at the top of your must-see list, it’s best to start the day there and buy early access tickets to avoid the long queues. You can still fit other attractions in and you’ll find my recommendations for an alternative route towards the end of this article. 

=> Starting Point – Termini Train Station

Most short stopovers in Rome begin and end at Fiumicino Airport. With direct trains available from the airport to the city, I’ve chosen Termini Train Station as the easiest starting point. It’s also the main hub for trains from other destinations in Italy and Europe.

Don’t worry about dragging heavy bags around either, as you’ll find Termini luggage storage facilities to safely stash your things for the day.

Stop #1 – The Colosseum

After stretching your legs on the easy walk from the station, you’ll start the tour off with a bang at one of the top places to visit in Rome. At first sight, a visit to the Colosseum offers one of those gasp-worthy moments, right before you frantically reach for your camera.

Built in AD 80, it could host more than 60,000 people all vying for the grisly privilege of watching gladiator battles, wild animal fights and public executions.

It’s enough to simply gaze in awe at the exterior of the ancient site, however, if you want to go inside it’s best to buy entry tickets online first. Then, you’ll see evidence of the intricate underground passageways and trap doors used for the brutal shows, along with the enormity of the famous landmark.

Stop #2 – The Roman Forum

No ancient Rome tour is complete without discovering the Roman Forum, which is just a stroll from the Colosseum. Though its majestic temples and imposing buildings now lie in ruins, you can certainly see, and feel, the sheer grandeur of the Roman Empire’s political, commercial and social heart.

This was the home of the Vestal Virgins who kept the sacred fire in the Temple of Vesta alight, and the site where Julius Caesar was cremated at his namesake temple.

The Egyptian granite columns of the Temple of Saturn hide secrets of the state treasury and was repeatedly destroyed by fire across the years. It’s definitely worth it to download an audio guide to learn about the site’s incredible history, while you’re exploring.

Stop #3 – Piazza Venezia

After popping back out from an ancient history trance, your walking tour continues onto the Piazza Venezia, which is literally located in the heart of Rome. It’s a breathtaking spot, with the white marble of the Vittorio Emanuele II Monument taking centre stage.

In fact, a whole area of Rome was demolished in order to make way for the structure and it was built to commemorate the unification of Italy.

If you feel like a coffee, there are plenty of cafes to get one here, before delving into the museum at the Palazzo Venezia. A huge collection including paintings, wooden sculptures, silverware, tapestries and weaponry stretches across more than 20 rooms and a garden adorns the centre of the palace. Back outside, don’t miss out on taking a snap of Palazzo Bonaparte, the former home of Napoleon’s mother.

Stop #4 – Largo di Torre Argentina

It’s said that Julius Caesar was murdered in the ruins surrounding the Largo di Torre Argentina. Fast forward to the future and it’s long been the home of a volunteer-run cat sanctuary. This is the next stop on your tour of Rome, to see the ruins of four Republican-era temples that are thought to have been constructed between the 2nd and 4th centuries BC.

You might be wondering what all this has to do with Argentina…

Nothing, as it happens. The name is taken from Argentoratum, which was the Latin name for the city of Strasbourg, the hometown of the Papal Master of Ceremonies.

Only cats are allowed inside the complex, though rumoured plans are constantly in motion to renovate the area and open it to the public. However, you can view the ruins from surrounding walkways.

Side trip – Campo de’ Fiori

At this point in your Rome sightseeing tour, it’s time to check the time. Is it already after 1pm? If it is, skip this side trip and make your way to the Pantheon. Otherwise, get set for the delicious delights of the morning market at Campo de’ Fiori. It’s the city’s most famous market and brims with fruit and vegetable stalls, flower merchants and locally made delicacies.

The vibrant, local action takes place on the site of the ancient Theatre of Pompey and some remnants are seen throughout. However, it’s hard to notice anything but the tasty treats. Refresh with a glass of freshly-squeezed juice, pick up something to snack on and don’t miss out on trying some sun-ripened fruit.

Stop #5 – The Pantheon

All of the best walks in Rome lead to the Pantheon and it pays to prepare yourself for yet another gasp-worthy moment. The 2000-year-old temple is the best preserved of Rome’s ancient structures and features the largest unreinforced concrete dome that was ever built.

Its existence is thanks to Marcus Agrippa, the son-in-law of Emperor Augustus. Dedicated to the planetary gods, early Christian emperors stopped all pagan worship in the temple and today it continues to function as a church.

Michelangelo is said to have stated that the Pantheon was built by angles, not by men, and that’s not so hard to believe.

Stop #6 – Church of St. Louis of the French

As you continue walking through Rome, the next stop is the opulent Church of St. Louis of the French. The Roman Catholic church is dedicated to the Virgin Mary, St. Louis IX and St. Denis the Areopagite and it’s still an active place of worship for Rome’s French community, as it has been since 1589.

Being Rome, the Baroque structure is built on ancient sites, namely the Baths of Nero and the Baths of Agrippa. Wander inside to see the three famous Caravaggio paintings, The Calling of Saint Matthew, the Martyrdom of Saint Matthew and Saint Matthew and the Angel, near the main altar.

Stop #7 – Piazza Navona

Among the spectacular things to see in Rome in one day, the Piazza Navona is one of the most extravagant. Three elaborate fountains take the spotlight and the one in the centre, Fontana Dei Quattro Fiumi, was designed by Bernini in 1651. Surrounding this is an ever-revolving parade of people including artists, magicians, dancers, hawkers and camera-happy tourists trying to take it all in.

Borromini, one of the most important architects of the century, designed the splendid, 17th-century Baroque Sant’Agnese in Agone Church. Speaking of architecture, simply turn around in circles here to treat your eyes to the array of Baroque palaces. The largest is Palazzo Pamphilj, which now houses the Brazilian embassy.

If you’re not running out of time, restaurants and cafes surrounding the square let you sink in for a bit and soak up the atmosphere.

Stop #8 – Vatican City

Of all the things to do in Rome , the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Vatican City tops many travel bucket lists. This Roma walking tour doesn’t really allow time to immerse yourself in the Vatican Museums , so choose the alternative tour below, if that’s your main priority. It does, however, give you time to check out one of the most famous squares, and most-visited churches, in the world.

The sheer size of St. Peter’s Square is a sight to behold. With 284 columns topped by sculptures of saints, the design of the square is a symmetrical masterpiece, so move through the crowds to view it from a variety of different angles. Dominating the city’s skyline, along with the square, is one of the largest churches in the world.

The highlight of St. Peter’s Basilica is Michelangelo’s awe-inspiring dome. However, an exploration of the grandiose interior, which houses invaluable works of art, is a mind-blowing experience no matter where your eyes come to rest.

Stop #9 – Castel Sant’Angelo

Your day tour in Rome continues onto the banks of the Tiber River and Castel Sant’Angelo. Also known as Hadrian’s Tomb, this is another great spot to stop for a drink at the cafe housed on the top floor, for panoramic views of the city.

The walls of this soaring, cylindrical building also hold fascinating secrets of its history as a fortress, a prison, a hideaway, a mausoleum and place of myth and legend.

Across numerous floors, it’s now a museum with a large collection of paintings, military memorabilia and medieval weapons. The opulent interior features frescoes showcasing Alexander the Great, historic Papal rooms, prison cells and the Hall of the Urns, once used as a resting place for the remains of the imperial family.

Stop #10 – Spanish Steps

No visit to Rome is complete without a stroll up the picturesque Spanish Steps. Built in the 1720s, the famous staircase joins the Piazza di Spagna with Trinita dei Monti Church.

When you climb the 138 stairs, terraces along the way offer gorgeous views. However, it’s worth it to go all the way to the top to gaze out over the labyrinth of streets and see the butterfly-shaped stairs from a different viewpoint.

If you still have enough time on your Rome self-guided walking tour, there’s plenty to see nearby. Keats-Shelley House rests at the bottom of the steps, with a museum highlighting the English Romantic poets. Surrounding this area you’ll also find many of the world’s luxury high-fashion brands like Fendi and Valentino.

Stop #11 – Trevi Fountain

By now, chances are you’ve decided that walking around Rome is one of your favourite things to do. The last stop on this Rome, full-day tour gives you the chance to return, or so legend has it.

The beautiful Trevi Fountain is an icon of the city and tossing a coin into the water is said to ensure you’ll be back – as long as you do so facing away from the fountain, with your right hand, over your left shoulder.

The marble creation is an enchanting mix of seahorses, mermen and the god Oceanus, with cascading water that you can hear long before you see it. If you happen to arrive at the Trevi Fountain at night, lights add a stunning, dramatic element.

On the way back to the nearby Termini, stop by the Quirinal Palace, home to the residences of the president, and Palazzo dell Esposizioni to see revolving art exhibits.

Finish – Back to Termini

Time for a breather and to collect your things from the station, after visiting the top sights to see in Rome. If you’re feeling hungry or have some time to kill before your flight or train journey, you’ll find a funky food court with a great array of cuisines to keep you full and busy until it’s time to leave.

ALTERNATE ROME ITINERARY (STARTING FROM THE VATICAN)

If your priority on a Rome city tour is to explore the Vatican Museums, this alternate tour gives you time to do so, while still fitting in some of the best things to see in Rome, in one day. The key to giving yourself as much time as possible is to purchase early access tickets in advance and head to the Vatican Museums first.

Vatican Museums

With one of the world’s most astounding art collections, it’s little wonder that the Vatican Museums are a ‘must-do’ in Rome. Founded in the 16th century by Pope Julius II, it’s certainly a mighty place to explore, with about 7 kilometres of corridors and rooms to discover.

The moment everyone waits for is that first glimpse of the Sistine Chapel, with Michelangelo’s magnificent ceiling frescoes. But, it’s really just the tip of the historic iceberg here, with the Raphael Rooms, the Room of the Segnatura, Borgia Apartment and the Gallery of Maps competing with a seemingly endless array of masterpieces.

Alternate Tour from Vatican City

Following the Vatican Museums, continue exploring Rome on foot by walking to the Castel Sant’Angelo. From there, visit the Spanish Steps, the Trevi Fountain, Piazza Venezia, the Roman Forum and the Colosseum, in that order, before returning to Termini.

WHERE TO EAT IN ROME

As I’ve mentioned, places to stop for a bite to eat abound on this Rome travel itinerary. However, it pays to be wary of tourist traps, which include many restaurants immediately in the vicinity of attractions. Although sometimes it’s worth exorbitant prices and substandard food if it means settling in to take in the views.

Otherwise, you’ll find plenty of options just a street or so away from most of the top sights.

Around the Colosseum, avoid the restaurants just outside and walk to Li Rioni for some of the best pizzas in town. Centro Storico is a neighbourhood known for fantastic restaurants in the streets surrounding the Pantheon. Just a few steps from Vatican City, Borgo Pio is a relaxing neighbourhood with a range of family-run trattitoris and bars, including the highly-rated Arlu .

TIPS FOR VISITING ROME IN A DAY

So, what do you need to know for your day-long Rome getaway? As with travelling in any big city, it pays to be prepared before you launch into the adventure. Though it’s an easy city to walk around and explore, these steps help you to avoid small, or large, inconveniences, to visit Rome in one day without a hitch.

Clothing/Footwear

Deciding what to wear in Rome all comes down to the season, so make sure you check the weather forecast before flying in. Summer can be sweltering hot and winter is fairly mild, though you’ll still need a warm coat, boots and a scarf.

Speaking of which, carry a scarf or wear something to cover your shoulders and knees when visiting religious sites, including the Vatican Museums (for men and women).

To ensure you enjoy the best walking tour in Rome, comfortable shoes are a must! Though it’s a fashion capital and you might be tempted to wear those heels, cobblestones and uneven surfaces dictate flat footwear for a long day of walking.

While Rome has gorgeous weather, rain is, of course, a possibility. However, don’t worry about packing anything as you’ll find that street vendors magically appear with umbrellas at the hint of grey skies.

Along with your Rome walking tour map, make sure you travel with some cash, just in case something on the street catches your eye or you dine at a smaller venue that doesn’t accept cards. However, credit cards are accepted at nearly all major retailers and businesses.

ATMs are called Bancomat and you’ll find plenty of them near attractions on this walking tour. If you need to exchange your currency for the Euro, head to a bank or Foreign Exchange Bureaus.

When you visit Rome the biggest safety issue you’re likely to encounter is pickpocketing, otherwise, it’s a relatively safe city. Pickpockets operate around the most crowded areas, like the Colosseum and Piazza Venezia. This is very easily avoided though, by not carrying anything in your actual pockets.

Wear a cross-body bag you can keep a close eye on at all times. If you’re taking a backpack, make sure you keep it closed and pop a little lock on the zip, so you don’t have to worry about it.

Never leave belongings where you can’t see them, such as draped over the back of a restaurant chair or anywhere out of easy reach.

=> Read about the safest travel purses for Europe here.

Buy tickets in advance

To make the most of a day or 24 hours in Rome, you’ll save an incredible amount of time booking ‘skip the line’ tickets. You can buy them online and, when you see the queues to buy entry tickets at attractions, you’ll do a little happy dance that you only have to line up to get in the door.

Getting to Rome Termini station from Rome airports

The easiest way to get from Fiumicino Airport to Termini Station is via the Leonardo Express train that runs at least every half-hour from 6:38 am to 11:38 pm and takes about 30-minutes to get there. If you’re flying into Ciampino Airport, the Trenitalia Train service takes approximately 15 minutes and operates from about 5:30 am to midnight. Tickets are available at the airports and the station, however, it’s easiest to book them online before you go.

Now that you know what to do in Rome and how to get to all the top sights on foot, it’s time to get truly excited! The Eternal City is a feast for the senses that captures your heart and won’t let go. So, whatever you do, don’t forget to throw that coin into the Trevi Fountain.

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One day in rome: perfect itinerary through the heart of the city.

How much of Rome can you see in one day? What Rome attractions can be visited on the same day and what is the best itinerary to follow? Find our best itinerary to see Rome in one day in this article by a local. Good walking shoes essential!

Romans say ‘A lifetime is not enough to know Rome’ and, Roman that I am, I agree.

There is just so much to see in Rome, so many layers of history, beauty and so much going on in this very busy city, that you can live here all your life and still not even scratch the surface of her many secrets.

However, I believe it is possible to get a taste of Rome in a day if you have the right itinerary and tips for visiting .

I lived in Rome most of my life and I have created this itinerary so you can explore the heart of Rome and see the very best Rome has to offer, even if you are short on time

Table of Contents

How much can you see with just one day in Rome?

Rome is a big city but many of its must-see attractions are walking distance from each other.

Following this itinerary, in one day in Rome you can see:

• Ancient Rome highlights such as the Colosseum, Forum and the Pantheon)
• Piazza di Spagna (=the Spanish steps) and Trevi fountain, among the most iconic of Rome sights
• Rome main piazzas including Piazza Venezia, Piazza Navona and Campo de’ fiori,
• Rome’s historical neighborhood of Trastevere
• Suggestions on food stops for lunch, snacks and dinner during your day in Rome

You will need to allow a full day for it and I recommend you equip yourself with the right gear, namely good walking shoes  ( find our favorite shoes for Italy here ) and a bottle of water refill freely from Romes’ famous  street fountains .

Can you see Rome in one day?

Here are answers to come of the most frequent questions about making the most of one fay in Rome city centre.

Can you see the Colosseum and the Vatican in the same day?

It is technically possible to see the Colosseum and (part of) Vatican city in one day.

They are a short bus ride away from each other and it is possible to start your day in the Vatican, for instance, and then the afternoon visiting the Colosseum

I don’t believe this would be the best time of your one day in Rome as you are likely to feel rushed and you won’t have time to see any of the city. A better way to see the Vatican is to combine it with nearby Castel Sant’Angelo.

However, if this is the only option to see the both, the best way to do see the Vatican and the Colosseum in a day is to invest in early entrance to the Sistine chapel and skip the line tickets.

Read all my tips for skipping the lines in Rome (without spending a fortune) here

What is the best way to get around Rome?

The best way to get around Rome city centre is on foot.

The attractions in this article are all a few minute walk from each other and do not require the use of the bus. If you wish to avail of them, you can buy tickets at the bus terminus in Piazza Venezia.

Rome in one day walking itinerary

Morning stop 1 – the colosseum.

I love to start my tour of Rome from the ancient part of it.

It is stunning, unique and convenient, thanks to the metro station and the many buses stopping nearby.

Ancient Rome is conveniently located at the very centre of the modern city!

The Colosseum is your first must see.

It is a magnet for tourists and the sea of baseball caps, umbrellas and ‘gladiators’ expecting you as you step under its magnificent shade taints the mystique of the place.

However, the monument itself is so beautiful and its remains to imposing I believe excluding it from your itinerary would be a real shame.

If you want to visit inside, I recommend you start your morning early (be here at about 8.30) and get skip the line tickets. A visit to the Colosseum and forum takes easily 3 hours: if you add waiting in line, this would kill the rest of this itinerary. 

You can get your skip the line tickets online here

Whatever you decide to do,take the time to climb to the hill just in front of the Colosseum for a beautiful photo op!

Morning stop 2 -Fori Imperiali (Roman forum) and Piazza Venezia

From the Colosseum, you can walk along the ancient forum following the modern Via dei Fori imperiali.

This follows the ancient Roman fora and give you a glimpse of what the city must have looked like in Roman times.

At the end of this road you find Piazza Venezia, which is a busy but historically important piazza: from sinister Palazzo Venezia, Mussolini used to reel the crowds and declared the beginning of the II world war.

The most impressive monument here is il Vittoriano: it is one of the most recognizable monuments in the whole of Rome and one worth seeing at least from outside.

Once in the piazza you cannot miss it: remember that its nickname is the trypewriter or the wedding cake and you will spot it straight away!

On top, there is a terrace open to the public. The views of the Roman forum from here are stunning (access to the middle terrace is free)

Morning stop 3 – Campidoglio hill

Just behind Piazza Venezia you find one of the most beautiful bits of Rome: the Campidoglio hill.

Climb its imposing steps and take in the beauty of the main piazza, with Marcus Aurelius towering above it from his horse, and make sure you walk to the back of it for an impressive view over the forum (free). 

Lunch Stop 4

At this point you are likely to want to stop for lunch.

In this area you have plenty of options, from take away pizza to sit down meals. Two I like are Antica Birreria Peroni and Cavour 313.

Early afternoon stop 5 – Spanish Steps and Trevi 

The Spanish steps and Fontana di Trevi are only a few minute walk from Piazza Venezia and an easy stop at this point of your itinerary.

However, I need to warn you that they are very crowded at this time, sometimes so much to make the visit a disappointment. 

Depending on how much you want to see Trastevere, you may want to avoid crossing the river and come back to this area in the evening instead: there are plenty of nice restaurants here and the crowds tend to leave when the evening sets in. 

Mid afternoon Stop 6 – The Pantheon

By far, my favourite part of Rome city centre.

Piazza del Pantheon and the adjacent piazza della Minerva are where you find small winding streets, dusty cafes, gelaterie and as many churches as your imagination can think of!

This part of the city is so packed with things to see the best way to enjoy it is just to get lost with your nose in the air.

It’s also the home of some of the best food in Rome: make sure you stop at ‘caffe’ tazza d’oro’ for a granita or in Piazza Sant’Eustachio for, allegedly, the best coffee in Rome !

Late afternoon stop 7 – Piazza Navona 

Piazza Navona is one of the most beautiful and famous square in the whole of Rome and a pleasure to visit.

Despite the crowd and the frequent selfie stick sellers, Piazza Navona is a beauty.

Don’t miss the wonderful church of Santa Agnese in Agone and the Fountain of the 4 rivers just in front and make sure you take the opportunity to learn about the rivalry between the two masters of Renaissance that are Bernini and Borromini.

If you are in the mood for something sweet, this is a good area for gelato too (find out our favorite gelato places here )

Pre dinner Stop 8 – Aperitivo in Campo de’ Fiori

Across the road from Piazza Navona sits Campo de’ fiori, another famous Roman square but very different from Piazza Navona in look and feel.

One is grand while Campo de’ fiori is dusty and charming, bursting with life at all times of day. 

This square is historically important as it is overlooked by the statue of Giordano Bruno, who lost his life here defending science and the light of reason.

It is a wonderful stop at this point of our itinerary as you are likely to want to sit down and rest: pick one of its wine bars and enjoy some people watching: it is as interesting as the sightseeing you just did!

Evening, Stop 9 – optional: dinner in Trastevere

By the time you have seen all this you are likely to be exhausted, but if your feet allow, I think you should cross the river and head to Trastevere.

Trastevere is often described as the most authentic part of Rome and I think this is true, to a point.

Less monumental than the city centre, it has a lovely student-y, arts-y vibe and feels less posh than many other parts of Rome and is full of nice restaurants and pizzerie. 

Don’t let the dusty streets deceit you: it’s not cheap to live here and tourism has discovered Trastevere a good while ago so this is no hidden gem

However, this remains one of the nicest areas for a dinner out and I think a great way to end the day, especially if in front of a pizza!

So, this is my list of things to do in Rome in one day. I hope you found this post useful and helped you answer the questions: what can I see in Rome in one day? Safe travels! 

Please note: this post contains affiliate links and if you make a purchase through them, we might make a small commission at no extra cost to you. We only recommend services and providers we believe will offer you a good experience.

This post was originally published in 2015 and has now been fully updated.

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Marta Correale

Marta Correale is the creator, writer and creative mind behind Learning Escapes. A travel loving mama of two from Italy, Marta currently lives in Ireland with her husband and two kids, they take frequent trips to European destination, the US and beyond. A professional travel blogger for over a decade, Marta is passionate about traveling with kids and helping others to travel more and better as a family.

13 thoughts on “ One day in Rome: perfect itinerary through the heart of the city ”

I love your city, I have been there a few times and I totally agree with you. It’s impossible to know the entire city, but the visit is worth it even if it is only for one day 😀 Awesome itinerary! Trastevere is my favourite part 😉

Thank you so much for joining #MondayEscapes

Thank you for this post! This is definitely helpful. I’ll be going to Italy for 10 days in November and there is so much to see that I want to limit my time in Rome to 2-3 days. I think it can be doable. Thanks again!

I’m so happy you found this useful! November can be fabulous in Rome and definitely, with 2 or 3 days you can already get a first feel for the place. I wish you a great holiday, would love to know your impressions when you’re back

I go to Roma every year on my way to Puglia and often it is just for 1 day. I wrote a post last year called ‘un giorno a Roma’ and included quite a few of the same spots as you. I guess great minds think alike! It’s nice to have more time in Roma, as it’s such a fascinating place. I can understand why you think of her as a family member. Ciao, Cristina

This inspires me to get to Rome, some day!! I will explore it. Thanks for the thorough itinerary !

It’s nice to have insider information! I like that you have a map and that a traveler can pick and chose what interests them to make the most of a day trip.

I haven’t been to Rome but this is a great itinerary for me- I love seeing lots and getting some walking in:) Looks beautiful and I’m glad ice cream is on the list!

Breaking up the city into smaller itineraries is brilliant. I wish we had this for Florence and Paris when we were there last. Thank you for doing the thinking for us!

wow, that would be some day! I was fortunate enough to spend 10 days in Rome last year, so I really got to explore some of these places. You are so right! They are all MUSTS, so doing this marathon itinerary would be so worth it!

Indeed, you must be prepared to walk a good bit for this one! Ten days are a much better way to see the city – you can see a new thing very day or, probably better, pick your favourite spots and really savour them: I love when i have that kind of time to really feel a place!

Very useful post. I’ve never been to Rome despite I am fascinated by the Italian culture… I think that I need to solve it asap!

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Home / Blog / Destination / Italy / Rome / Rome in a Day: Ultimate Self-Guided Walking Tour of Rome

Rome in a Day: Ultimate Self-Guided Walking Tour of Rome

Rome is a city with thousands of years of history, all layered together and visible in its stunning monuments, buildings and neighborhoods. The historic center in particular is full of things to do and see, and luckily they’re all within walking distance of one another. And even if you’ve only got one free day to explore the Italian capital, we’ve got you covered. This self-guided walking tour of Rome will help you hit all the main monuments and areas in just a few hours.

Of course, we think this city merits at least a few days of exploring. But in case you’re short on time, we’ve rounded up the top spots you simply can’t miss.

On this self-guided walking tour of Rome, we’re taking you from the Colosseum to the Vatican, with many stops in between. But feel free to spend as much time as you’d like at each place, and adapt it to fit with any other tours you might have scheduled.

8 Essential Stops on a Self-Guided Walking Tour of Rome

Colosseum and roman forum.

Let’s start our day with one of Rome’s oldest monuments, the Colosseum . Even if you don’t have time to go inside, the park around the monument gives you a good look at the exterior. If you walk down the road a bit, you’ll be able to look down into the Roman Forum at the ruins as well. 

Piazza Venezia

Your next stop is the central hub of Rome, Piazza Venezia, where you’ll find the Vittorio Emanuele II monument—or as the Romans affectionately call it, “the wedding cake.” This multi-level, white marble monument was built to commemorate the unification of Italy under the reign of its first king, Vittorio Emanuele II.

Trevi Fountain

Not far from Piazza Venezia is one of the most popular sites in Rome, the Fontana di Trevi . Wandering along a small side street, you’ll hear the fountain before you see it. This stunning masterpiece is a must-see for any first-time visitors to Rome. Due to the popular tradition of throwing coins in the fountain, it earns about €3,000 a day to be given to the charity Caritas .

Insider’s tip: It’s best to visit as early (or late) as possible in the day to avoid the crowds. Think 5 or 6 a.m.!

Spanish Steps

From the Trevi Fountain, you’ll make your way to the Spanish Steps next (detour to Piazza Barberini if you’d like to see another of Bernini’s fountains along the way, the Fontana del Tritone ). Because recent restrictions prohibit any sitting or eating on the steps themselves, hold off until our next stop. In the meantime, you can take photos, grab a drink at the rooftop terrace above the steps, or do some shopping at the designer stores in the square. 

This iconic building is next on your self-guided walking tour of Rome. You may know that the Roman Pantheon is famous for being the largest unreinforced concrete dome in the world. But did you know that the building burned down twice?? Or that painter Raphael’s fiancée is buried here? Before gazing up at that awe-inspiring ceiling, make sure to brush up on some little-known facts about the Pantheon !

And of course, we have plenty of recommendations for where to eat near the Pantheon. After you’ve admired the only source of light, a 7.8-meter oculus in the center of the dome, head outside to enjoy a refreshing gelato. 

Piazza Navona

A short walk from the Pantheon will bring you to Piazza Navona . Just like the Circus Maximus, this square was originally used for chariot racing and other events in Ancient Roman times, before being built over in later eras. In the center is yet another of Bernini’s fountains, the Fontana dei Quattro Fiumi , which has inspired people with its beauty for centuries.

Remember, it’s best to skip dining at any restaurants in this area (most of which will be overpriced). But if you do want to sit and enjoy the view, grab a cappuccino or glass of wine at one of the many bars nearby. 

St. Peter’s and the Vatican

Depending on what time of year you’re visiting, the Vatican can easily take up an entire morning or afternoon. Be prepared for long lines (even if you buy a ticket ahead of time). You’ll want to dedicate at least a couple of hours if you do decide to venture into the Vatican Museums or the basilica. From the outside, however, you can see the entire square of St. Peter’s and enjoy the exterior architecture and sculptures.

After a long day spent exploring the center of Rome and its historic treasures, heading to the Trastevere neighborhood for dinner, a drink and maybe a gelato is the perfect way to end the evening. Join us on our Trastevere at Sunset: Rome Food & Wine Tour  or continue the DIY spirit of the day and choose from among Trastevere’s best restaurants .

Either way, you’ll end your tour of Rome in one of its most beautiful areas, where you’ll get to see a different side of this vibrant city.

Update notice: This article was updated on June 19, 2023.

And, if you offer a coin to the Trevi Fountain, you’ll be more likely to return to Rome. I left in 92, didn’t do the coin thing as I’d hoped to be back in 2 weeks (half my vacation), I never returned. When you’ve spent a few days in Rome, you’ll understand. A word to the wise.

Very wise words, Mary!

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Rome Walking Tour, 15 Self Guided Tours with Map and Attractions

Use the Rome google map below to visit the attractions in the historic city center. The map is a complete self guided Rome walking tour map and guide to historic Rome attractions, including Towers, Squares, and Cathedrals. Follow the walking route on the interactive map to explore Rome at your own place. Spend a few hours or a full day depending on how long you want to spend at each attraction.

Click on the arrow icon to the left of the title to display the legend. Click on the Rome attractions map pins (green, red, brown, purple or blue pins) or on the legend (left icon on the title bar) or the PDF map that you download for additional information including images of the attractions. Each set of colored map pins can be used as a separate walking self guided route making it flexible to work into your schedule of other planned events or lunch breaks

For accompanying Rome attractions guide click HERE

To download pdf of rome attractions map click here, click on image of map for rome attractions guide.

Interactive Rome Walking Tour map for as follows:

Each separate color on the interactive Rome Walking tour represents a different area in historic Rome. You can complete the self guided walking tour in one day or spread it over several days depending on the area of historic Rome you want to explore.

• Piazza del Popolo can be accessed by taking Metro line A and exiting at Flamino station.  Explore Piazza del Popolo then climb the stairs to the Pincio Hill garden. From here, the Borghese Gardens are a 10 minute walk. Villa Borghese is immense and has nine different entry points (including from the top of the Spanish steps).
• Rome Walking Tour 2 : In dark grey color on the interactive attractions map above you will find attractions in the area of the Villa Borghese Gardens . The gardens are 80 hectares of beautifully landscaped park. There are numerous walking trails including options to rent a bike. Stop by at one of the cafes for lunch or have a picnic in the designated areas. Attractions include Villa Giulia , Museo Carlo Bilotti , Borghese Gallery and Museum , Shakespeare Globe Theater  , the Water Clock and countless statutes, sculptures, squares, and Bioparco di Roma Zoo
• Rome Walking Tour 3 : The orange colored attractions map is centered on the Spanish Steps. On the interactive map, attractions are located around the Spanish Steps ( Piazza di Spagna ) . In this are of historic Rome, there several attractions including the famous Spanish Steps leading to the grand palace Palazzo di Montecitorio, the famous S panish Steps , and the popular Barcaccia Fountain . The Piazza Mignanelli is located next to the Piazza di Spagna.
• Rome Walking Tour 4 : The Lime (light green) attractions map has attractions related to the Emperor Augustus . This includes the Emperor Augustus Mausoleum and the intricately carved Altar
• From the Monuments of Emperor Augustus, it is a quick walk to Piazza Barberini , your next stop on the Rome attractions map. This is indicated by the color blue on the interactive map. Attractions in this area include the Bernini Fountains
• Rome Walking Tour 5 : The dark green on the interactive attractions map of Rome is the area in and around the famous Trevi fountain. Attractions include the Palazzo di Montecitorio and the Temple of Hadrian
• Rome Walking Tour 6 : The next set of attractions in the historic city are shown in dark brown on the interactive walking tour of historic Rome. Here you will find the Piazza Navorone , a public open space and what was the home of the Stadium of Domitan. Attractions such as the fountains, statutes and palaces are located in this square
• Rome Walking Tour 7 : The light green walking tour on the interactive map is the Piazza Campo de’Fiore . Campo de’ Fiori means “field of flowers” and describes how the landscape looked in the middle ages. The Piazza is just south of Piazza Navarone. In ancient Rome this land was undeveloped and eventually the Santa Brigida Church was built. Just south of the square the Palazzo Farnese was constructed. The palace was an imposing Italian palace when it was built for the prominent Farnese family in the 16th centaury. Eventually the square itself became the commercial center of Rome and the streets were named after the trades such as Via dei Baullari  (coffer-makers), Via dei Balestrari  ( crossbow -makers),  Via dei Giubbonari  (tailors), Via dei Cappellari  (hat-makers), and Via dei Chiavari  (key-makers).
• From Campo de’Fiore” head over to Largo di Torre Argentin . Largo di Torre Argentin is a square that includes a Square with Porticos. Colonnades, Curia, Roman Temples, the remains of Pompey’s theater and the place where Julius Caesar was murdered. He was assassinated in the Curia of Pompey. Excavation of this area began in 1929
• Rome Walking Tour 8 : The next stop on the Rome Walking tour is the attractions around the historic center of the ancient City of Rome. Attractions include Trajan’s Column, Trajan’s Market and Trajan’s Form . In the area is Palazzo Napoleon’s including the apartment he occupied while in Rome

Additional Rome Walking Tours:

• Self guided tour 9 will take you to the Roman Colosseum. Click on the Roman Colosseum attractions map HERE and accompanying Colosseum attractions guide HERE
• Rome attractions map and self guided tour 10 includes the Vatican City attractions map HERE and the Vatican attractions guide HERE
• Self Guided Walking tour 11 , explore the neighborhood of Trastevere with map of attractions HERE and guide of attractions HERE
• The 12th walking tour is of St Peters Basilica . Explore all the attractions in St Peter’s Basilica with the attractions guide HERE
• One of my favorite trips is that of the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill . The map of attractions is HERE and the self guided walking tour is HERE
• Visit Pompeii with a complete self guided tour map HERE and the attractions guide to the 49 points of interest HERE
• Spend the day in Florence , this was by far one of my best day trips. The self guided walking tour map is HERE and the attractions guide is HERE

Instructions to download the interactive map to a smart phone:

Take the map with you when you travel:.

Instructions on:

• Using it offline
• Using it online – We bring one of our older smart phones when we travel and buy a local SIM card. You can purchase a local tourist SIM card from one of the main local providers, they are usually pretty inexpensive. You may need your passport to purchase as its a tourist SIM if you are an international tourist. You should have them put it in your old smartphone and check that it works before leaving the store. Use it to follow the map online, its the best way to explore

Sign into google using your Gmail account on your smart phone and be connected to the internet. If you do not sign in, this process will not work . You will be downloading this map to save it. You will be saving it in google maps in two places:

• Save in “Your Places” for online use and
• Save in “Offline map” for offline use
• Youtube instructions on link as follows: https://youtu.be/_6j9koieMsU

Instructions to save above map:

• Click on the rectangle on the top right hand side of the above map [ ] – if you move your mouse to it, it will say “view larger map”
• It will take you into google maps on your smartphone and it will automatically save this map. You must be already be signed into google maps with your Gmail account, if you are not signed into google maps then the map will not be saved
• In google maps, click on the menu which is the three horizontal lines on the top left of the google map (it is to the left of the search box)
• From the menu, click on “Your Places”. This will take you to another screen with a menu at the top. From the top menu bar select “maps”. A list of your maps will be displayed including the map that was just saved. Select the map you just saved
• Make sure the map is still onscreen; do not close out of it as you will be downloading this map and it has to be onscreen to download. While the map is onscreen, click on menu again (three horizontal lines top left hand corner)
• Select “Offline maps” then select “custom map”
• Once you select “custom map”, the onscreen map will be displayed; select the area you want downloaded (zoom in or out to get all the data points into the blue square outline; pinch fingers for zooming)
• Click on “download” – this will save the map in an offline area that you can use when you are not connected to the internet

The map is now saved in two places. To see this, click on the menu (three horizontal line on top right hand corner) in google maps:

• Click on “Your Places” from the menu, then select “Custom Map”. The map will be listed and you can use the map while connected to the internet
• Click on “Offline Maps” from the menu. The map will be listed to use the map offline ie: not connected to the internet (make sure location services is turned on and your will see the blue dot indicating your location as you navigate with the offline map)
• After you download a map, use the Google Maps app just like you normally would. If your Internet connection is slow or absent, or if you are in “airplane mode” Google Maps will automatically use your offline maps to give you directions

Finding the Universe

Travel tales, photography and a dash of humor

Rome in a Day: A 1 Day Rome Itinerary

Last updated: March 25, 2024 . Written by Laurence Norah - 30 Comments

Heading to Rome, but not in the city for too long? Don’t worry, it’s possible to see a lot of Rome in a day, and that’s just what this post is going to help you do. We’re going to focus on Rome’s highlights in this guide to help you get the most out of your day in Rome.

As well as providing a suggested detailed step-by-step Rome itinerary, we’re also going to be sharing some advice to help you make the most of your trip, including tips for skipping the lines, saving money, getting to and from the airport, and, if you happen to be staying overnight, a guide to where you might consider staying.

This itinerary would work well as part of a longer trip around Italy like this where you want to see a few different locations, or even as part of a longer Europe itinerary like this one .

Let’s get started with our guide to spending 24 hours in Rome!

Rome in a Day: Detailed Itinerary

Our Rome guide assumes you have a full day in Rome and are able to start sightseeing relatively early in the morning. We’re focusing on the absolute highlights of the city – attractions and sights that we think the first time visitor will really want to focus on.

It’s a busy itinerary for a really full day, from 8.30am through to 6 or 7 pm, so definitely feel free to adjust it to meet your interests and the amount of time you have in Rome. If you have less time than a full day, you’ll need to skip a few things.

Our first stop in Rome is the Colosseum .

The Colosseum is a truly incredible building to visit. Dating from ancient Rome, it has survived through the fall of the Roman Empire, the Dark ages, the Middle Ages, the Industrial Revolution and our current modern age.

Sure, it’s suffered a bit of wear and tear over the years, but it’s still incredibly recognisable as a giant sporting arena, and looks pretty good for a 2,000 year old building! Touring here is a must on your first visit to Rome.

The Colosseum is open every day, with times varying depending on the time of year. You can see more information here . You need a schedule a time in advance of your visit and we suggest an early time to maximise your sight-seeing time in Rome.

Getting tickets and planning your visit can seem a bit complicated, so we put together a detailed guide to visiting the Colosseum to help you plan.

Please do read through it, as the Colosseum can book up far in advance, meaning you might be disappointed if you don’t plan properly.

In summary, if you just want a standard entry ticket, we recommend booking tickets on the official website here .

If you do decide to just get a standard entry ticket rather than taking a guided tour, then I highly recommend picking up a guidebook which includes details on the Colosseum like this pocket guide , or downloading a free audio guide which covers the Colosseum like this one from Rick Steves .

This will really help you navigate the site, as there is so much to see and it can be quite overwhelming otherwise.

There are also a range of entry options on GetYourGuide here and on Tiqets here . These include tours and tickets with addons like multimedia guides or bundles which include other attractions and activities in Rome.

These are going to be a little more expensive but can definitely be worth it if you want to take a tour or will take advantage of the other bundled products.

We highly recommend taking a tour of the Colosseum like this one or this one if your budget and timeframe allows for it, as it is a complex site with a lot of history. But it’s up to you of course!

Note that as of October 2023 all Colosseum tickets are issued in the name of the person visiting, and you need to bring ID with you to use your ticket.

• Roman Forum

Adjacent to the Colosseum, and included with your Colosseum ticket, is the Roman Forum. This was the place at the center of all Roman life – in effect, the heart of the Roman Empire.

There were temples, shrines, government buildings, speech podiums, judiciary buildings, and places of commerce. Basically, pretty much everything of import that happened in the Roman Empire, would have happened here in some form or another!

Today the Forum is a large sprawling area consisting of many ruined structures in various states. There’s a great deal to see here, although we’d suggest trying to limit your time to around an hour to 90 minutes so as to allow you to see what else you have planned for your day in Rome.

The Forum is open every day, you can see full opening hours here .

From the Roman Forum, our suggestion is to take a walk through Rome’s historical center. Whilst you won’t have time to explore all these locations in depth, there are plentiful opportunities for a photo.

Some of the highlights we suggest you check out as you head towards the Vatican City from the Roman Forum are laid out below, in the order that you will encounter them.

• Altare della Patria

As you walk away from the Roman Forum, the first major building you will likely notice is the giant Altare della Patria, also known as the Monumento Nazionale a Vittorio Emanuele II.

This was built to honor Victor Emmanuel, the first King of unified Italy since the 6th century, who was crowned as such in 1861. With a total area of 17,000 square metres, this is quite the monument, and one you are sure to spot.

Those Romans sure knew a thing or two about construction. The Pantheon, which is your next stop, is an excellent example of this. Completed around 126AD, this former temple has been in continuous use, and to this day the roof is still the largest unreinforced concrete dome in existence.

As well as the incredible architecture, the Pantheon is the last resting place of a number of notable folk, including the painter Raphael.

For a long time the Pantheon was free to visit but as of July 2023 there’s a small fee. You can pay this on-site, or you can buy it online in advance from the official site here (you’ll need to create an account).

Tickets with an audioguide are also available online here , although they are a bit more expensive.

Side note, you might be hungry by now. There are lots of places to dine in this area, although do be mindful of time. You might also want to have either a gelato or a coffee around here – see our guides to the best gelato in Rome and the best cafes in Rome for ideas .

• Trevi Fountain

Just a few minutes from the Pantheon is the world famous Trevi Fountain, probably one of the most visited and photographed fountains in the world.

Visiting this fountain at the middle of the day is likely to be a crowded affair, but to be honest, I’ve never found a time of day or night when it’s not crowded here!

Still, the fountain is over 80 feet high and over 160 feet wide, so you’re still likely to be able to see it, regardless of how busy it is. It’s been attracting visitors since 1762, many of whom today throw a coin into the fountain for luck.

• Spanish Steps

There’s so much to see in the old historical part of Rome, but we’re on a mission here. Our next stop is the Spanish Steps.

This 135 step stairway leads from Piazza Spagna up to Piazza Trinità dei Monti, where you’ll find the Trinità dei Monti church. Having your photo taken whilst on the Spanish Steps (ideally with a gelato in hand), is pretty much an essential part of your day in Rome.

This may also be a good time to quick stop for a quick shot of espresso if you need a boost, and there are several recommended cafes in Rome near the Spanish Steps.

Note that as of August 2019 , it’s no longer permitted to sit on the Spanish Steps as they have been classified as a monument, and there is the potential of being fined if you do so. So stick to standing on them instead!

• Castel Sant’Angelo

Our last stop as we head towards the Vatican Museums is the Castel Sant’Angelo, which sits on the bank of the river Tiber, and has done for around 2,000 years.

Originally built as the mausoleum for the Emperor Hadrian, this massive cylindrical building has since seen many uses, from fortress to castle to prison. Today, it’s a museum, and the views from the top are impressive.

Again, you don’t have time to visit if you are following this itinerary, but this is well worth a look from the outside nonetheless!

If you really want to visit, you can buy tickets in person or from the official ticket site here . can also buy tickets from GetYourGuide here or from Tiqets here . It’s always worth comparing as prices vary.

• Vatican Museum

You’ve now made it to the Vatican Museums inside the Vatican City, for the second half of your day.

The Vatican Museums are vast – certainly one of the largest museums in the world. There are over seven kilometres of corridors spanning 54 galleries, and with 20,000 works of art on display, there’s no shortage of content to keep you busy.

Suffice to say, an afternoon, or even a day, is unlikely going to be enough to fully appreciate what is on display. Some pre-planning, an audioguide, or a guided tour like this one , are good options to make sure that you see some of the absolute highlights of the Vatican Museums collection.

These include the Map Room, paintings by Da Vinci, Raphael & Caravaggio, marble sculptures, and much, much more, including our next stop.

Note, the Vatican is closed on Sundays and some other days – you can see all opening times and days on the official Vatican website here . You can book your tickets in advance of your visit on the official site here . You can also book on GetYourGuide here , and on Tiqets here with a 5% discount on their normal price.

• Sistine Chapel

Within the Vatican Museum complex is the Sistine Chapel (entry is included with Vatican Museum entry), whose ceiling and Last Judgement painting are generally regarded as one of Michaelangelo’s greatest works, and one of the greatest Renaissance works.

The sheer scale of the work is quite mind-boggling. Over many years, Michelangelo painted over 5,000 square feet of frescoes on the ceiling, which depicts various biblical scenes, such as The Creation of Adam and the Story of Noah.

The wall above the altar is reserved for the massive Last Judgement painting, which depicts the second coming of Christ on the final day, where the souls of humanity are judged and sent to their fate. This is another awe inspiring installation that has to be seen to be believed.

As a sidenote, there’s no photography allowed in here, and there are guards who will enforce this rule. Lots of people break it, but we have seen people escorted out for doing so. It’s also usually very busy, both in here and in the Vatican Museums in general, so do be prepared for that.

St. Peter’s Basilica

Our last stop on our tour of Rome’s highlights is St. Peter’s Basilica, arguably the most important church in the Roman Catholic faith.

Built in the early 17th century, and designed by Renaissance masters including Michelangelo, Bramante, and Bernini, this is the largest church building in the world, and is said to be the home of the tomb of Saint Peter.

As you might imagine, this is a major site of pilgrimage for Catholics from all over the world, and the Pope holds large masses here on a regular basis. There’s a lot to see inside, plus you can head all the way up to the roof for incredible views across the city.

St. Peter’s Basilica closes at 6pm October to March, and 7pm April to September. The last entry is usually 75 minutes before closing.

St. Peter’s Basilica is very popular and the lines can be long for entry. It is free to visit, but if you book a tour like one of these you can skip the line. Some tours of the Vatican, like this one , also include skip the line access to St. Peter’s Basilica which can be a good option.

We’d recommend doing this at busier times of year as the lines can be very long. Just be aware that you might need to adjust your itinerary depending on tour times.

For lots more information on visiting the Vatican City and its attractions, including the Museums and St Peter’s Basilica, see our complete guide to the Vatican . This has everything you need to know to plan your visit, including all the highlights, tips for visitng, how to buy tickets and lots more.

1 Day in Rome Map

To help you visualise and plan your day, we’ve put together this map of the attractions, as well as a suggested walking route through the city. You can also see this map on Google Maps here .

1 Day in Rome Summary Itinerary

Here’s a quick overview of what you’ll see on your one day in Rome:

• St. Peters Basilica

What about a Rome Tour?

Whilst our itinerary is entirely possible to do in a self-guided manner, you can also visit all the sights on a guided tour. You have a few options for this, depending on how much of the day you want to be guided.

Our first suggestion would be this Rome tour from Take Walks . This full day tour includes everywhere in our itinerary, including the Colosseum, a view of the Roman Forum, a tour of the historic center of Rome and the Vatican City attractions, including the Vatican Museum, Sistine Chapel, and St. Peter’s Basilica. So an excellent option!

Even better, the tour includes transport from the historic center across to the Vatican, is fully guided, and you get skip the line access to all the major attractions, making it excellent value for money with minimal hassle. Take Walks only run small group tours, and we’ve taken a number of their tours in cities around the world.

For one day in Rome, this is definitely our preferred guided tour option. Book your tour here .

Another option would be to do part of the day as a guided tour, and part on your own.

For example, you could do a guided  Colosseum Tour with the Roman Forum & Palatine Hill in the morning, or a guided tour of the Vatican & St. Peter’s Basilica in the afternoon.

You could even do both, although we’d suggest it would make more sense to do the previously mentioned Rome in a Day tour instead.

Finally, you might also consider taking a food tour in Rome, many of which run in the evening. If so, see our guide to the best food tours in Rome for some ideas.

How to Save Money and Skip the Lines in Rome

On our longer 2 day and 3 day Rome itineraries we recommend either the Roma Pass or the Omnia Rome and Vatican Pass , two cards that offer skip the line privileges and cost savings if you plan on visiting the major attractions in the city.

However, neither of these are available for time periods shorter than 2 days, and so whilst they definitely offer convenience in terms of booking and skip the line access to all the attractions on our itinerary, the cost saving is not quite so obvious if you are only in Rome for one day.

The main card option for 1 day in Rome is the Rome Tourist Card , which includes the Colosseum, Vatican Museums & St. Peter’s Basilica, as well as some audio guides and discounts on other attractions. This card is really more about convenience than cost saving, making it easy to book everything in one place.

If cost saving is the most important factor for your planning, you will be better off booking individual skip the line tickets for each attraction.

It is absolutely essential that you do book your attraction entry in advance for most of these attractions. Ticket lines can get really really long in Rome, especially in the summer months, and you don’t want to waste your day in Rome standing in line.

For the attractions we recommend, you’ll want to purchase advance tickets for the Vatican, the Colosseum and St. Peter’s Basilica. You can do that here:

• Skip the line tickets for the Vatican here on GetYourGuide and here on the official site (both include Sistine Chapel.)
• Skip the line tickets from the official website for the Colosseum here (includes Roman Forum).
• A tour of St. Peter’s Basilica  here (including the Vatican) or here  (including dome access and papal crypt)

Note that for the Colosseum we have linked you to the official site which in our experience has the best prices.

The Vatican ticket price is normally similar on GetYourGuide compared to the official site. Personally we find GetYourGuide a lot easier to navigate than the official ticket site, however you might save a bit on the official site so do check both options.

St. Peter’s Basilica don’t sell fast track tickets, so we have linked you to GetYourGuide and Tiqets, both third party sites that we trust. If you want to visit the Vatican and Basilica, then a tour which includes both like this one can be a good value option.

For the Colosseum, all visitors need to reserve an entry time for when they want to visit. This is true for holders of the Roma Pass as well.

See our guide here on visiting the Colosseum for everything you need to know, so ensure you avoid disappointment.

If you have longer in the city, or just want the convenience of buying one ticket that does everything, we can recommend the Rome Tourist Card , the Roma Pass , or the Omnia Rome and Vatican Pass . Which one works for you will depend on your interests and time in the city.

Where to Stay in Rome

With one day in Rome, you might not be planning on staying overnight. However, just in case you are, we wanted to share some options for accommodation. We’d recommend staying somewhere centrally located so you can get to and from all the sights easily – the area between Piazza Navona, Piazza Venezia and Piazza del Popolo is usually our preferred area to stay in Rome.

For an idea of where I mean, take a look at these hotel options:

• Orsa Maggiore Hostel – just across the river in Rome’s trendy Trastevere district, this female only hostel features a range of room types including dormitories and private rooms.
• Di Rienzo Pantheon Palace – a very well reviewed guesthouse option in the heart of the city, just moments from the Pantheon and other attractions. The building is a 16th century property, and rooms feature en-suite facilities, free wi-fi and breakfast
• The  Mimosa Pantheon Hotel – right next to the Pantheon, and therefore well placed for the city’s attractions, this is a well reviewed good value 1* hotel. Rooms feature private bathrooms, air conditioning and free WiFi. A solid budget choice.
• The  Navona Theatre Hotel – just five minutes walk from Piazza Navona, this is a very well rated 3* hotel within easy walking distance of most of Rome’s main attractions
• The  Hotel Navona – another well reviewed 3* hotel in central Rome near Piazza Navona. This hotel is in a restored 15th century building which features restored original frescoes. Rooms have en-suite facilities, air conditioning and free WiFi

If you are taking an early flight, you might want to stay nearer to the airport. Here are some options:

• The well rated Sleep’n go Hotel near Rome Fiumicino , which has an airport shuttle service
• Air Rooms Rome Airport , which is in the Fiumicino terminal building
• Hotel Villa Giulia , which is close to Rome Ciampino, and offer a shuttle service

If you are arriving or leaving by train, you will likely want to stay near Rome Termini train station, which is the major train station in the city. Some hotels near to Rome Termini to consider are:

• The RomeHello – found just a few moments from Rome’s Termini Station, this hostel features a range of room types, from dormitories to private en-suite rooms. There’s free WiFi, fantastic reviews, and it’s a great value option.
• Hotel Valentino Palace – a fantastic mid-range 3* property, just 150 yards from the train station
• Gioberti Art Hotel – 50 yards from Termini Station, a well rated excellent value 4* hotel
• NH Collection Palazzo Cinquecento – Awesome value 5* hotel just a few steps from the train station

Of course, there are many more options for accommodation in Rome. When we travel we usually use Booking.com for our accommodation. They have a great selection of options, with everything from hostels to apartments to hotels . The review system makes it easy to pick a good option, and they have an excellent cancellation policy.

As an example of what is available in Rome on booking.com, beyond the above mentioned hotels, here’s a well rated hostel , and a fantastically located apartment . As you can see – loads of options!

If you prefer an apartment, then we recommend Plum Guide .

Plum Guide carefully curate their listings so their options tend to be of a very high quality whilst still being available at a range of price points. We’ve used them in locations around the world, and you can see our Plum Guide review here . You can see their listings for Rome here .

If you can’t find what you want on Plum Guide, or you want some new options to try out, we wrote a whole post on the best alternatives to AirBnB  which you should check out!

Getting to and from Rome Airport

Rome has two major international airports that you might fly into – Rome Fiumicino (FCO) and Rome Ciampino (FCO). Flights from the North America usually arrive at Fiumicino, whilst flights from Europe may arrive at either.

It’s easy to get into central Rome from either airport.

From Rome Fiumicino, you can take the train, bus, or taxi. There’s a train station on site which will get you into the city centre in around 30 minutes to an hour. Prices range from €8 – €14, depending on if you take the fast Leonardo Express or the local train services (FL1).

Note that the local train service (FL1) does not go directly to Termini – it goes to Rome Trastevere, and then you would need to change onto the FL5, which you can take to Termini.

There are also a number of bus options which cost from €5, and which take around 50 minutes to an hour, and take you to Termini train station. There’s also a taxi stand. You can also arrange either a shared shuttle or a private transfer service , which needs to be booked in advance.

From Rome Ciampino, there’s no on-site train station, but there is a local train station just five minutes away by bus. This train costs around €1.50. There are also buses from Ciampino, which also cost €5. Ciampino also has taxis, although as this is a smaller airport there are generally fewer available. You can also book a shared shuttle or private transfer service in advance .

Both airports also have private and shuttle transfer options that you can book in advance.

Getting to and from Rome Train Station

If you are arriving by train, you will most likely arrive into Rome Termini. This train station is pretty much in the center of Rome, and there are excellent transport links from here to the rest of the city, including buses, the metro, and of course taxis.

Luggage Storage in Rome

If you are just visiting for the day and not staying overnight, the chances are you don’t want to carry your luggage around with you all day. Many of the attractions in Rome won’t let you take bags in with you anyway, and even those that do will likely require you to do additional screening.

As such, we’d recommend you leave your luggage behind so you can explore without being weighed down. We’d suggest this luggage service , which has locations at Termini station as well as the Pantheon and other parts of the city.

We also suggest checking out Nannybag , a service which has storage points across Rome (and other cities around the world).

Getting Around Rome

Rome is an easy city to get around, with multiple public bus routes as well as a metro and taxi services. The city center is also easily walkable. For our itinerary, the main section you might want to use transport for would be to get from the Roman Forum across to the Vatican.

In our itinerary, our suggestion is to actually walk this route. Whilst this will take around an hour, the route we suggest would take you through the historic center of Rome, and let you see some of Rome’s most famous attractions, including the Pantheon, Trevi Fountain, and Spanish Steps.

Of course, depending on time and your personal preference, you might prefer to just head straight to the Vatican, and skip these, so you have time to explore the Vatican. In which case, the fastest option will definitely be to take a taxi, which will take in the region of 15 – 20 minutes, depending on traffic. Public transport, either bus or metro, will take around 40 minutes.

Further Reading for Visiting Rome

We have visited Rome a number of times, and from our trips we’ve put together a range of guides that we think you will find useful. We also have a number of go-to guidebooks and other resources that we think you will find helpful for planning your time in Rome.

• If you have longer in the city, or are just looking for more options for what to do, take a look at our guide to spending 3 Days in Rome , which also has some more practical information for your visit. We also have a guide to spending 2 Days in Rome as well as things to do in Rome .
• If you’d prefer to take more of a guided visit to Rome rather than plan your trip yourself, we have a guide to doing just that here .
• If you are interested in visiting the Borghese Gallery, one of Rome’s most popular art museums, check out our guide to visiting the Borghese Gallery .
• We also put together a detailed guide to visiting the Colosseum as well as visiting the Vatican to help you plan your visits to these incredible attractions
• If you are interested in walking tours, we recommend using either Take Walks or Context Travel . You can get a 10% discount just by using our link on any Context Travel tour. You can read about some of the walks and activities we’ve done here , here , and here .
• Speaking of tours, we have a guide to our favorite Rome food tours here .
• No visit to Rome is complete without eating gelato! To be sure you get the best stuff, take a look at our guide to finding the best Gelato in Rome .
• We also have a guide to where to find the best coffee in Rome , which also includes tips on how and what to order, as well as tips on saving money on your espresso shot!
• If you’re planning on visiting Rome in summer, read our  tips for visiting a European city in summer  to stay sane
• Looking to visit more of Italy ? Check out our content on  Venice ,  Milan  and  Florence  for inspiration!
• We also have a detailed 10 day Italy itinerary to help you plan a trip in this wonderful country
• This day in Rome will likely be easier if you can get online and reference maps or this itinerary as you go. See our guide to getting online when you travel for tips on how to do that.
• If you’re looking for a physical (or Kindle!) guidebook, we recommend the  Rick Steves Rome guide , which has lots of practical information to help you make the most of your stay

And that’s it for our guide to how to spend a day in Rome! We hope you found it useful – as always, if you have any questions or feedback, just let us know in the comments below!

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Amanda Trass says

6th October 2022 at 6:10 am

Hi guys, hoping you can shed some light for me – we are a family of 6 travelling to Rome tomorrow and have left EVERYTHING to the last second as usual!! I have read through your guide and tried to book tickets for the Colleseum. We have 4 children entitled to free tickets and there is only availability at 17:15 for them. The last available paid tickets are at 17:05. Do you know if there is any way around this for us? Hope to hear from you!! Regards, Mandy

Laurence Norah says

6th October 2022 at 3:37 pm

Ok, so those timeslots are pretty close together, they would probably let you all in together, although I’m not sure if you can purchase child tickets separately. If you can then I would try that, it should be ok. The only other option is to book one of the lower priced tours instead, but that would be more expensive for all of you for sure. I hope it works out for you, have a great time in Rome!

7th October 2022 at 6:09 pm

Thanks so much for your advice! I ended up purchasing through the Tiqet website which cost me $20NZD more, but gave me the confidence that we would all get in together! Interestingly the time for the childrens’ tickets all said 1715 also but was never questioned or an issue. Maybe that information will be helpful to you next time! Had a great day in Rome! Thanks 🙏 Mandy

8th October 2022 at 2:19 pm

Thanks for the update Mandy, glad to hear you had a great time in Rome!

Tunde D says

9th August 2022 at 6:37 pm

Do you offer this on Sundays?

10th August 2022 at 12:44 pm

So we don’t offer tours, although our recommended walking tour provider, Take Walks, does offer a tour with an itinerary similar to this, such as this full day tour . However, as the Vatican is normally closed on Sundays, this tour isn’t going to be available then. So you can likely find a tour which will cover the other attractions but not the Vatican.

Enjoy your time in Rome!

Sheree Campbell says

11th February 2020 at 12:49 pm

Love this website!

We are arriving a day early for a Celebrity Mediterranean Cruise in September (4 of us). We arrive about 11am to the airport and trying to decide how to get from airport to Rome and do a 1/2 day of sightseeing on Thursday and some morning sight seeing on Friday before heading to the port. We plan to stay overnight in a centrally located hotel as suggested on your website. What do you suggest we do?

Also, what do you suggest as a mode of transportation to Civitavecchia.

Thank you so much! Sheree

11th February 2020 at 1:27 pm

Hi Sheree – thanks very much! So as with everything in life, it comes down to deciding between cost and convenience. There’s a section in this post about getting into Rome from both airports, you just have to decide if you want to take public transport or book a private ride like this one . The latter will likely be a little more expensive, but shared between four of you the price will likely end up being reasonable. This will be probably the quickest option.

If you are planning on visiting the major sights in Rome, then you might find that a Rome City Pass , which includes a transfer from the airport, is a good option, but you will have to do the maths based on the attractions you want to see to be sure it’s a good value for you.

To get to Civitavecchia the best option is likely going to be the train. These run regularly and take around an hour from Termini train station.

Have a great trip and let me know if you have any more questions!

Andrew Grima says

12th January 2020 at 8:25 pm

Hi Laurence and Norah We love your blog. We are using your site to plan our two day/one night trip to Rome in October this year. We have booked Colessium skip the line and a Take walks tour of Vatican City. We also booked Hotel Mimosa Pantheon through your site.

We are planning to do a full day trip to Pisa and Florence on Day 2 and was hoping to get the driver to take us directly to Fiumicino Airport to connect with our 22:40 flight home to Australia. The only way to do this is to book a private tour which is prohibitively expensive for myself, wife and 11 year old daughter. We are looking at Get Your Guide tours recommended through your blog (Florence and Pisa full day trip from Rome-12 hours).

Is there a way to find out/advertise whether anyone else is in the same situation as us so that we can book a private tour together? This would make it affordable for everyone on that tour if others have late night flights out of Rome that day. The day we need this tour and connection to the airport is Saturday 17 October, 2020. We have plenty of time to plan this adventure.

Appreciate your thoughts and advice.

Kind regards Andrew and Di

13th January 2020 at 12:41 pm

Thanks for your message and kind words.

So I am sure there is some service or message board out there for this kind of thing, but I’m not sure exactly what it would be or how successful you might be with it.

I’m assuming you have considered just taking the tour as usual and then arranging a transfer to the airport? There are a range of options, from private transfers to the express train, so it should be quite easy. You would just need to store your luggage somewhere during the tour as most tours won’t let you bring lots of luggage with you.

Sorry not to be of more help!

Andrew says

13th January 2020 at 8:38 pm

Laurence Thank you for your prompt reply. Yes, what you suggested was our first option.

26th June 2019 at 3:04 am

awesome blog, something i have been looking f for my two day Rome and Vatican plan during December this year. Would you like to advice anything specific as we(husband and my self in early thirties) are doing this during winter so less day light 🙂

26th June 2019 at 5:38 pm

Thanks very much! We have visited in December and haven’t made much change to our plans, most of the attractions are just as pretty at night as by day, so other than making sure you visit everything during opening hours, you wouldn’t need to worry too much I don’t think 🙂

Have a great trip 🙂

Randeep says

8th May 2019 at 3:38 pm

Hi Guys, Great information – Going to be super helpful. Visting rome at the end of April. I have little kids (5 and 7) so will take Taxis where possible. I need to start at noon so seems like I should start with Vaticant and then do the morning stuff the next day. Just got tickets for Vaticant museum and Sistine Chapel for the afternoon – what do you think we can do in the evening. Pantheon from outside, Trevi Fountain and spanish steps I read in your responses. Q1. Is there a order that will make more sense since I will be coming out of Vaticant. Q2. My kids are troopers I plan to be out and about as late as possible – is it safe to be out with kids at say 10pm and can I see anything at that time? Q3. Does Lyft or Uber work in Rome? Q4. Are there casual eating restaurants where we can get simple and healthy food?

Thanks a lot for your help Regards Randeep

8th May 2019 at 5:00 pm

Hi Randeep,

Thanks very much 🙂 So I would definitely suggest the outdoor sights in central Rome would be the best option for the evening, and you have pretty much hit the key sights that I would suggest seeing in that area.

Q1 from the Vatican, I would suggest at least seeing the outside of the Castel Sant Angelo, which is very nearby. You could then take a taxi to Piazza Popolo, and walk from there down to the Spanish Steps, then on to the Trevi Fountain and Pantheon.

Q2 yes, we’ve never had any trouble in Rome, lots of people are out at night. As with any large city, it’s just being aware of possible pickpockets, and having your valuables zippered away, rather than an easy target in a back pocket.

Q3 At the time of writing, Uber and Lyft are not available in the city, other than in the high end Uber Lux / Uber Black, which is about twice the price of a normal taxi. So taxis are the only real option. It’s important to ensure the driver puts the meter on – the only time that you should pay a fixed fare is from the airports. There is an app called mytaxi, but unfortunately this isn’t like Uber – the meter starts running as soon as you pick a taxi, including as it comes to pick you up. Also note that most taxis only take cash. To be honest, we just took public transport in Rome, if you have a smartphone with data, then it’s easy to use Google Maps to find the right bus or metro.

Q4 – There are a lot of restaurants of all types in Rome, so I don’t think you’ll have difficulty finding a place to eat 🙂

8th May 2019 at 5:47 pm

Thank you so much these are very helpful

MICHELLE says

30th April 2019 at 7:26 pm

Good Afternoon, If you were to follow this itinerary starting at 8:30 am like you suggest – what time would you we be arriving at the Vatican? Thanks

2nd May 2019 at 8:34 pm

Hi Michelle!

I would say around 1.30pm. Definitely from 1pm, and no later than 2pm, would be the time to aim for 🙂

liliana says

18th April 2019 at 9:08 pm

I’ve read a lot of articles but this definitely stands out!! the information is very useful and considers every aspect when planning a quick trip to Rome.. I’m visiting on september, do you recommed to add the Plaza Navona in the intinerary?

18th April 2019 at 9:16 pm

Hi Liliana!

Thanks very much 🙂 I absolutely do, Piazza Navona is one of the standout architectural features in Rome, especially the fountain at the centre. It’s easy to add to the itinerary too, you can add it in either just before Castel Sant Angelo, or just after the Pantheon 🙂 Alternatively, it’s also very lively in the evenings. We’ve stayed just round the corner from here, and there are often performers here in the evening 🙂

17th April 2019 at 6:53 pm

Would it make sense to do your “Rome in a Day” walk in reverse? Just checking on tickets now and there is nothing in the morning for the Coliseum but we could get into St Peter’s Basilica in the morning time slot.

17th April 2019 at 7:02 pm

Hi Sara – absolutely. Now that the Coliseum is also ticketed, the order is less important (the Coliseum used to just get busier throughout the day, but the timed entry system has lessened this issue somewhat!). So definitely go when you can 🙂

6th March 2019 at 11:00 pm

Great read – thank you. I’m visiting Italy at the end of April. We’re staying in Florence and will be coming to Rome for the day. My question is, what is parking like in the city? We’ll pretty much follow your itinerary, can you recommend an area to find a space or central car park?

Thank you Luke

11th March 2019 at 1:18 pm

We rarely drive when visiting cities, so our only experience doing something similar was in Paris, where we used a service called Parclick to find and book a car park. I don’t have any direct experience in Florence so can’t recommend anything, but I’m sure a similar service exists. One option is also to look at the airport, as these often have long stay car park options as well as good transport links to the city

I hope this helps – have a great trip!

Carolina Marte says

18th February 2019 at 10:54 pm

Hello! This article is AMAZING! We wasnt sure if we should visit Rome, but after reading this we are DEFINETLY going, thank you! Question: we are going from March 28 (arriving around 21:30h) to March 29 (returning in the 17:15 flight) with our two daughters: 11 years and 4 years old. Do you think is too much for them to do a “self walking tour” (we will love the guides tour, but is just too expensive for us 🙂 Also, can we do something that night since we are not actually having the complete 8hrs on March 29?

19th February 2019 at 4:10 pm

Hey Carolina!

Thanks very much! So I would say that this is a fair bit of walking, but you could cut that down a bit by taking the taxi or similar from the old town area to the Vatican. I also can’t really comment on the stamina of your daughters – some might find it too much, others will be just fine 🙂

That evening, depending on where your hotel is, if you want to see some things my suggestion would be to hit the historical center and see the Trevi Fountain and the Spanish steps. The pantheon won’t be open at that point, but the exterior is still impressive.

19th February 2019 at 5:41 pm

Thanks! My daughters stamina are the highest always! Lol We will be staying at Navona hotel per your recommendations. What are the options to get from the Airport (Fiumicino)? Hotel is charging me €48 for two passengers for a one way transportation. Is the train safe (we arrive at 7:30pm)

19th February 2019 at 6:07 pm

Sounds like your daughters will be fine, and it will be yourself you might have to worry about 😉

So there are a few options for getting into Rome, and yes, the train is safe 🙂

Your options are the airport buses (these take around an hour, but will likely be a little bit faster at the time you arrive), the Leonardo Express train (30 minutes to Termini for €14 / person, children under 4 are free, one child aged 4-14 can travel free per paying adult), and the regional FL1 train (around €8, one child 4-11 is free per paying adult). The last FL1 train is around 9.30pm, whilst the last Leonardo Express train is at 11.23pm.

The FL1 train would be the cheapest, but you would have to change at Trastevere and then take a trolley bus – you can see this route here: https://goo.gl/maps/cWmAXJYiYJp

It really depends on you which option you go for. Just be aware if you go to Termini it’s a bit of a walk to Navona, so you might want to take a taxi or bus (there are plenty of bus options).

I hope this helps!

Isabel says

7th February 2019 at 1:11 pm

I wanted to say thank you! I have been trying to find a helpful article while planning my trip and this was amazing! You have outdone every book, blog, and show I have tried! I am bookmarking your website and telling everyone I know how helpful this was! Thank you!!

8th February 2019 at 7:54 pm

Thank you so much for your kind comment Isabel, it makes a big difference to us to know that we are helping people plan their adventures 😀

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Rome in a Day Tour

The key facts, private tour.

Monday to Saturday at 9.00am *

* These are the times that are bookable instantly from our website. To request a different departure time, please send us a request via the Request a Quote  page. 

Semi-Private Tour

Monday to Saturday at 9.00am

Group Sizes:

Private tour: 1-6 people **.

** For groups larger than 6 people, please send us a request via the  Request a Quote  page. 

Semi-Private Tour: 2-6 people

Duration: 8 hours.

• Skip-the-lines access to the Colosseum, Roman Forum, Palatine Hill, the Vatican Museums and St Peter’s Basilica
• Visit the stunning Trevi Fountain and Spanish Steps with an expert guide.
• Learn about the Ancient, Medieval, Renaissance, Baroque and Modern eras.
• Tick all the must-see sights of Rome off your bucket list.
• With reserved no-line tickets, visit the oldest surviving temple in Rome – the Pantheon.
• Enjoy the Baroque beauty of Piazza Navona with Bernini’s Fountain of Four Rivers.
• Stand beneath Michelangelo’s ceiling in the Sistine Chapel.
• See the wonders of the Vatican Museums.
• Gaze in awe at the splendours of St Peter’s Basilica, the most important church in Catholicism.
• See all the best of the Vatican City -the Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel and St Peter’s Basilica.
• See all best highlights of Rome in one day – Ancient Rome, the Historic Centre and the Vatican City.
• Throw a coin into the Trevi Fountain to ensure you come back to see it all again!
• See the best of Rome in one day, with no line waiting.
• Bookable as a private tour, or you can join a handful of other people in a semi-private tour of only 6 people maximum.

For Private Tours only … 

Make your tour your own with these add-ons. 

Just click the link below to book a private tour, and  check the appropriate box to add the option you want.

For other requests, please request a quote for a custom tour that we will tailor to your specific needs and preferences!

You can optionally add entrance tickets to the Colosseum Arena, and stand on the floor where the gladiators did battle in the infamous Games. 

Entrance is through the “Gladiator’s Gate”, as seen in the Gladiator movie.

Additional ticket cost: €15 per adult, €10 per child.

Much of this tour can only be done on foot. The tour typically starts at the Colosseum (although we can change this if you wish), and this site, along with the Roman Fourm, is inaccessible to traffic. The tour typically ends at the Vatican, which is all indoors. The only portion of the tour where we can include a driver to help you to reduce the amount of walking, is the middle portion of the tour, through the Historic Centre. It therefore makes sense – if you want to walk as little as possible – to hire a driver only for the part where you will get full use of the driver. Hiring a driver for the whole day means paying them an hourly rate while they read the newspaper in the minivan while you are inside the Vatican or the Colosseum!

We hire the friendliest and most professional drivers, in keeping with our standards for our guides and customer service staff, and you will be transported through Rome in a new model, air-conditioned, very comfortable minivan with ample legroom – typically a Mercedes Viano or similar model. 

With your own private NCC driver, and with your guide continuing to accompany throughout the entire tour, you will have access to streets which are  off-limits to regular traffic. You will be able to rest your feet between the morning and afternoon walking tours, and still see everything on the itinerary. Actually, as we can travel so much faster, we can stop at more places than is possible on foot, and you will also see a lot more of Rome through the car window as you drive by!

Driver Fee: €225

• Base Price *: €985
• Additional Adult: €95
• Additional Child **:  €65
• Infants ***: Free
• Adult: €275
• Child:  (aged 5-17 on the day of the tour) : €225

Notes on Private Tour Pricing:

• *  Base Price is for the first two people on the tour. 
• ** Children aged 5-17 on the day of the tour
• *** Infants  aged 0-4 on the day of the tour
• Prices are for groups of up to 6 people.  For groups larger than 12 people, please send us a request via the  Request a Quote  page. 

YOUR FULL TOUR

Description.

See the best of Rome in a single day. On this full day walking tour of Rome, you will see the best and most popular attractions that are on every first-time visitor’s bucket list:

The Colosseum, Roman Forum, Palatine Hill, Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel, St Peter’s Basilica, the Trevi Fountain, Spanish Steps, Pantheon, Piazza Navona.

Skip the lines with advance reservations to the Colosseum, Roman Forum, Palatine Hill, the Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel and St Peter’s Basilica, so none of your valuable time is wasted.

Perfect for the first-time visitor!

Hit the ground running in your Rome in a Day Tour and skip the mind-numbing queues for the Roman Colosseum, the ancient world’s greatest sports arena! Your guide will enthral you with tales of gladiators and martyrs that made the Colosseum famous while exploring the remnants of their history together.

Next you’ll head over to the Roman Forum to learn how the heart of Rome’s all-encompassing empire functioned and thrived. Forget battling through the crowds inside the Forum, your guide will lead you directly to a stunning lookout point. From there, you can take in the entire Forum complex, including the Senate House and the Temple of the Vestal Virgins.

During your Rome in a day tour your guide will make it easy to imagine how the Forum must have appeared 2,000 years ago with stories of war, politics, economics and religion that shaped the ancient city.

No walk through Ancient Rome would be complete without a visit to the Pantheon.

We have timed reservations, which means no standing in line to enter.

This nearly 2,000-year-old building has the largest non-reinforced concrete dome in the world. As you view it from inside on your Rome in a day guided tour, you’ll hear the story of how it was built and why it has inspired so many other buildings, from St. Peter’s Basilica to the U.S. Capitol Building.

Your Rome in one day tour, through the Historic Centre, continues with a stop at the stunning Trevi Fountain, which is the largest baroque fountain in Rome. Legend has it that if you toss a coin over your left shoulder into the Fountain you’ll return to Rome one day.

The next stop in your full day tour of Rome is the Spanish Steps for a spot of people watching and plenty of photo opportunities. From here your guide will take you on the metro to the Vatican, where you will have a break for lunch before entering the Vatican City.

After lunch, your guide will take you straight into the Vatican Museums, where you’ll skip the long lines of people (who didn’t book with Rome Group Tours) and head straight in. With your Vatican expert to guide you, you’ll delve into one of the world’s greatest art collections.

This specially-curated Vatican tour highlights the best works in the vast collections here, giving you a broad understanding and appreciation of what you’re seeing. You’ll explore the sculpture galleries and the world-famous Laocoön Group before heading to the Sistine Chapel.

No Rome in One Day tour would be complete without visiting the most renowned work of Renaissance architecture and the largest church in the world – St Peter’s Basilica. 

Michelangelo’s great dome is something that you have to see in real life. Pictures cannot do it justice or portray the sheer magnitude of it. Your local, expert tour guide will explain to you the fascinating history of its conception, location on the Vatican Hill, design, architecture and symbolism. 

The Basilica features several chapels and contains numerous statues and mosaic works of importance. Your guide will point out the most important, and leave you with time to look around by yourself. The Pietà, one of Michelangelo’s most well-known religious sculptures, is among the highlights of this part of your visit.

Your tour will finish in St. Peter’s Basilica. From there, you can accompany your guide out to St. Peter’s Square, or you can remain to look around the Basilica longer, or climb the dome if you feel up to it!

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Self-Guided Rome Walking Tours

In this post, we provide you with free, self-guided central Rome walking tours with a printable sightseeing map as well as an audio tour option for smartphones.

You can use these to discover the city at your own pace (or) as a preview for what you will see on a live-guided tour.

Check out our free walking tours of Rome .

We have 4 other self-guided tours that we hope you will consider.

• Vatican City + St. Peter's Basilica
• Jewish Ghetto

SELF-GUIDED TOUR OF ROME'S CENTRE

This self-guided tour will lead you through some of Rome’s main attractions, from the Spanish Steps through Trevi Fountain to Campo de’ Fiori.

All in all, there are lots of sights along the way covering more than two thousand years of history.

Here are a few of the sites you can expect to see on this tour:

• Piazza Navona
• The Pantheon
• Trevi Fountain
• Spanish Steps
• Venice Square
• Campo de’ Fiori

We also have our own audio tour where you can find a more in-depth GPS-led audio tour version. Here's a sample.

Purchase an audio tour here

There are also daily guided free tours both day and night that really operate on the pay-what-you-like model. 

Tours listed below are run through us. More guided tours are available here .

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This 15-stop, self-guided tour will lead you through some of Rome’s main attractions, from the Spanish Steps through Trevi Fountain to Campo de’ Fiori, with lots of sights along the way covering more than two thousand years of history.

It’s best to set aside 2-3 hours for walking this route.

You’ll be seeing plenty of both tourists and Romans as you walk, and both groups make good people-watching, not to mention plenty of chances for photos, coffee, gelato, and historical color.

Click on the map to enlarge or download it to a smartphone.

If you haven’t done much walking in the older parts of Rome yet, the ancient layout of these streets can be confusing.

Streets are winding, pedestrians and cars often share space, and you’ll regularly find your way into piazzas, the large open squares Rome is organized around.

You can get this tour with directions in 3 ways:

• Download this tour to the Google Maps App ( link ).
• Download a PDF version .
• Purchase an Audio Tour

We will be orienting you relative to buildings and with the help of street names, which you’ll see on signs up above eye level.

As far as timing, this tour can be enjoyed any time the sun is up, and some of the piazzas are lively even after dark.

Crowds can be a limiting factor throughout this walk; if you want to start things off on a quiet note, the Spanish Steps, one of our first stops, tend to be at their quietest early in the morning, briefly during lunch, and around sunset.

The tour begins at the Spagna metro station.

As you emerge from the western side of the building, you can look to your right and get a full view of the Villa Medici, not far down the street.

1. VILLA MEDICI

The Villa Medici, along with the Villa Borghese (which houses the Galleria Borghese) beyond it, stands on the site of the Gardens of Lucullus, created more than two thousand years ago, back when Romans saw gardening as a strange new hobby imported from Persia.

But the house you see today is built in 1576 after the land had been a quiet vineyard for centuries.

Villa Medici Rear

Houses like the Villa Medici were designed with ancient styles in mind, and inside, they often displayed the ancient relics found in the earth dug up to lay foundations.

The Medicis and Borgheses were some of Italy’s most powerful families during the Renaissance and beyond.

The Medici clan included bankers, nobility, and popes. But they’re remembered mostly for their support for the arts and sciences.

The Villa Medici offers guided tours daily, lasting about 90 minutes and available in different languages at different times.

It’s open every day but Monday and standard admission is 12 Euros.

Villa Borghese is home to the third-largest public park in Rome; admission is free and it’s accessible from dawn to dusk daily.

There are several things to see and do here in the park.

Most notably, it’s home to the Galleria Borghese , where you can see plenty of art and artifacts from both the Classical and Renaissance eras, plus several other museums and galleries.

The Villa Giulia contains a museum to the Etruscans, a rival culture of the early Romans.

In addition to the museums, there’s a zoo and a replica of Shakespeare’s Globe Theater on the grounds.

2. SPANISH STEPS

For many foreigners, the Spanish Steps are visual shorthand for Rome; they’re used in lots of movies and TV shows, starting with Roman Holiday back in 1953.

This was a natural hillside as recently as 1723. Before the steps were built, this was the slope of the Pincio Hill, one of many hills around Rome.

The 138 steps were built in the 18th century and got their name due to the adjacent Spanish Embassy.

Unfortunately as of 2019, you can no longer sit on the Spanish Steps. Violaters can receive a fine as high as €400.

Eating on the steps is also banned.

At the bottom of the steps sits the Piazza di Spagna and the Fontana della Barcaccia , which means “Fountain of the Long Boat.”

The legend goes that the design of the fountain comes from a boat washed into this piazza by a flood of the Tiber River.

This is the first of many fountains that we’ll see, and it’s designed by Pietro Bernini in the 17 th century, before the steps.

Pietro Bernini is the father of famous architect Gian Lorenzo Bernini, whose work we’ll also see plenty of.

When you get to the bottom, look up the stairs for a view of that French church at the top, called Trinita dei Monti.

If you look to the right side of the steps from the bottom, you’ll see a peach-colored building, the Keats-Shelley Museum. English poet John Keats arrived to live here in 1820.

If a café stop is in order before you go any further, the Antico Caffe Greco near the bottom of the stairs was one of his hangouts.

When you’re done here, walk away from the steps and past the fountain. Turn left and you’ll see the piazza narrowing toward a freestanding column, the Column of the Immaculate Conception.

3. COLUMN OF THE IMMACULATE CONCEPTION AND PIAZZA MIGNANELLI

The Column of the Immaculate Conception is the centerpiece of the small Piazza Mignanelli that opens from the corner of the Piazza di Spagna.

The statue on top of the column is a bronze Virgin Mary. Mary, the mother of Jesus, occupies a central place in Catholic belief.

And this statue of her was built in 1857 to commemorate the Pope’s recent declaration of the Doctrine of the Immaculate Conception: the idea that Mary, uniquely among human beings, was born without original sin.

Original sin is visible in the monument in the form of the snake Mary is stepping on.

Below her are the authors of the four Biblical gospels, and still further down are four prophets said to have foretold her birth, with reliefs depicting four phases of her story below them.

Depending on when you’re here, there’s a small chance you’ll see a wreath of flowers on the statue.

December 8th is the Feast of the Immaculate Conception; each year on that day, the Pope visits this spot along with the head of the fire department, which originally erected the column, and they leave the wreath behind.

The building beyond the column is the Palazzo di Propaganda Fide – the Palace of the Propagation of the Faith.

This is a Vatican property – you can tell from the yellow flag on the front – and for a long time, it was the home of a church division responsible for missionary work and evangelism.

4. AQUEDUCT RUINS

Looking down at this spot, you can see something that an ancient Roman would have had to look up at.

The aqueducts – imperial Rome’s famous system for bringing clean water into the city – relied on gravity to work.

So, water was sometimes flowing over the heads of the people who were going to consume it, with roads passing under the arches you can see the top of from here.

Being by a river, Rome has flooded many times through the millennia, piling sediment each time, hiding but also preserving the ancient city.

The fence here limits the view, but above the arch, you can maybe see an inscription with the word “Germanicus” just readable at the near end.

This is one of the names of the emperor Claudius, who the inscription credits with rebuilding this stretch of the Aqua Virgo, the system of aqueducts built to bring water to the newly urbanizing Campus Martius after it was incorporated into the city.

To achieve this, Roman engineers had to build a system of gentle slopes across long distances of irregular terrain, including crossing rivers, bringing convenience, comfort, and health within reach of Rome’s residents.

This knowledge was lost with the fall of Rome; with the Renaissance, writings about the aqueducts were rediscovered.

Across Via del Nazareno from these ruins is a tiny door, used to enter the rebuilt Acqua Vergine, the Renaissance replacement for the ancient system.

And in a moment, you’ll see another piece of that system: a fountain meant to put this reborn marvel of engineering on display.

5. TREVI FOUNTAIN

There’s likely to be a crowd around when you reach the Trevi Fountain, and even in the absence of people, the water can make it a loud spot. Find a view of the fountain from the front.

The main statue in the fountain depicts the god Oceanus. Below him, you can see his retinue of tritons, men mixed with fish.

The one on the right is blowing a shell to announce their arrival. And the wild creature each of them is struggling with is called a hippocampus, a horse mixed with a fish.

In this case, they also have wings. Greco-Roman mythology tells that horses were the creation of the god of the ocean.

The fountain is the end of the Acqua Vergine aqueduct, the recreation of the ancient Aqua Virgo aqueduct. And the design of the fountain tells that story.

Above the statues, on either side, you can see reliefs – the one on the left is a man with a scroll, showing plans for the aqueducts, and on the right, a woman points out a flow of freshwater to a group of men.

She’s the Virgo, the young woman, in Aqua Virgo – the legend is that when Roman surveyors looked for a source of water, a young woman led them to a spring, and the resulting aqueduct was named for her.

The statue on the left of Oceanus represents Abundance – she has a cornucopia full of fruit, and on the ground beside her is an urn spilling water.

On the right is Health, who’s holding a bowl with a snake drinking from it – snakes were ancient symbols of medicine.

Overall, the story is of the power of Rome to tame the forces of nature and bring them to the benefit of the city’s people.

As you see it, the fountain dates from 1762, and it started as a showpiece for the Renaissance project of rebuilding the aqueducts.

But it was such a massive endeavor that it took more than a century, plus many financiers and designers, to make it happen.

And it takes steady renovations to keep it looking sharp – as of the latest one in 2015, the fountain is lit at night.

Like the Spanish Steps, the Trevi Fountain owes some of its fame to a film – in this case, La Dolce Vita by Federico Fellini (see the video above).

If you’ve seen the movie, you won’t be surprised to hear that dancing in the fountain, or entering it in any way, is illegal.

And as for drinking: yes, these fountains were once the source for public drinking water, but for your own sake, wait for one of Rome’s other great works of water infrastructure, the nasoni – little drinking fountains located all over town.

Trevi Fountain is home to lots and lots of coins - visitors observe a tradition of throwing change into the fountain, hoping for good luck and the promise of a return to Rome.

Usually, coins are thrown backward over your shoulder, so make sure the coast is clear before you participate in this tradition, and watch out for other coin-tossers nearby.

And the money, totaling more than three thousand Euros per day, goes to Caritas Roma, a Catholic charity supporting the poor and homeless.

6. GALLERIA ALBERTO SORDI

All that’s columned is not ancient, as evidenced by this shopping mall, opened in 1922 and built in a style of Art Nouveau that borrows from multiple phases of Rome’s historic architecture.

That design continues into the inside, where you can find a stained glass ceiling above stores selling plenty of Rome’s signature high-end fashion.

It’s an easy place to step inside if you need to cool off or to use the restrooms. 

You can also find several places serving the classic cappuccino and cornetto - Italian croissants, which locals eat in the morning, and tourists are allowed any time of day.

The mall got its current name in 2003 after the death of Alberto Sordi, a classic actor of Italian comedy films.

When you’re ready to move on, go back outside the way you came in and cross the street toward the Marcus Aurelius Column.

7. MARCUS AURELIUS COLUMN

The Marcus Aurelius column is much thicker than many similar monuments you’ll see around the city.

That’s because it’s hollow, with a spiral stairway inside that once allowed a climb to the top.

The spiral is also on the outside – you can see an unbelievably detailed relief up and down the length of the column. It shows battles led by Marcus Aurelius against the barbarians.

“Barbarian” is a broad term today, and it was broad for the Romans, too. These particular wars were against Germanic and Persian groups.

But the collective term “barbarian” could apply to almost any culture, and the word comes from “barbar,” meaning “blah blah” – so “barbarian” just meant “people who talk languages that don’t make sense.”

And the sculpture does not spare the details of the barbarian experience – towns are burning, women and children are running, and surviving soldiers are bent and horrified at the power of the empire.

The column was probably finished after Marcus Aurelius’ death, and at that time, it would have been the least of his honors in this area – near here stood the Temple of Marcus Aurelius.

After their deaths, most Roman emperors were declared gods and worshipped.

Nothing remains of that temple now, but temples to other Roman emperors do still remain.

Like all the ancient structures in the area, this column has been affected by floods and rising sediment, so several meters of it are below ground.

The statue on top is not Marcus Aurelius, but the Christian St. Paul, added when this monument received its own Renaissance restoration.

8. PALAZZO MONTECITORIO AND OBELISK OF MONTECITORIO

This obelisk is genuinely Egyptian, made in the 6 th century BC and brought here five centuries later.

Earlier we mentioned that obelisks represented the divinity of Egyptian pharaohs.

The head of the Egyptian gods was Ra, the god of the sun, and this obelisk was used in Rome as part of an enormous sundial.

Like the others, it fell, was buried, and then was rediscovered, and like the others, it doesn’t stand at its original location

Today, there’s a meridian on the ground, pointing toward the piazza’s largest building, to nod at its former use.

The building that meridian points toward is the Palazzo Montecitorio. This palace is the home of the Chamber of Deputies, one of Italy’s two houses of Parliament.

Rome has been Italy’s capital since 1870, shortly after the Italian unification, when the many small, conflicting states in the region, separate since the fall of the Roman Empire, first joined into a single country.

The building itself, at least the part you can see, is much older – it’s another Renaissance creation.

And it’s originally the work of Gian Lorenzo Bernini, a Baroque architect, and sculptor we’ve mentioned, who also had a hand in the Trevi Fountain.

I also mentioned his father, who was another sculptor and who saw talent in Gian Lorenzo from a young age, giving him the benefit of early study and a long, prolific career.

Bernini’s sculptures are around the world, and his architecture is all over Rome.

He’s responsible for parts of St. Peter’s Basilica, the piazza outside of it, and a fountain in the Piazza Navona, which we’ll see soon, just to name a few.

This building shows the style he cultivated and which many others imitated, but if you got past the front door, everything you’d see is 20 th -century Art Nouveau.

Apart from the façade, the building was completely remade to suit the needs of parliament.

9. PANTHEON

The name “Pantheon” is Greek, not Latin, meaning “for all the gods.”

The source of the name is uncertain – most temples were dedicated just to one god, not all of them together.

And there’s no record of how it was used in the 2 nd century AD when it was finished under Emperor Hadrian.

And Hadrian was rebuilding an earlier temple, and the inscription above the entrance still dates from that nearly 2,000-year-old version.

You can still read the name of Agrippa, who ordered the original temple built.

You can also tell its age because it sits below the level of most of the ground around it, whereas originally it was elevated.

There are a couple of reasons why it’s lasted so long.

First, in the 7 th century, when many ancient buildings were being abandoned or destroyed, the Pantheon became a Christian church, dedicated to St. Mary and the Martyrs; for a while it even had bell towers on the outside.

Even then, its refitting as a church meant the removal and destruction of many objects its new users considered unholy.

The other factor in its preservation is that the structure itself is built to last.

The dome on top is made of concrete, with thicker layers of heavier materials near the bottom, then gradually thinner and lighter going up.

It’s still the largest unreinforced concrete dome in the world.

You can’t see it from outside, but at the very top of the dome is an opening, called the oculus or the eye.

Besides lightening the weight of the structure, it also means that from inside, you can see the sky and whatever the sky is doing.

Around noon, a dramatic beam of light becomes the centerpiece, assuming the sky is clear.

If the sky is not clear, then the weather comes in.

Standing inside during rain or snow can be magical ( video ), and also relatively peaceful since many visitors to town won’t want to make the trek to the Pantheon on foot during a storm.

If you go inside, you’ll see the altar, apses, and other markers of an active Catholic church.

Among the statues are markers of burial places, including the artist Raphael and the first two kings of unified Italy: Vittorio Emmanuele II and his son, Umberto I.

You can get lots more detail on the many features of the interior by taking a tour.

Live tours are plentiful, and just inside, you can get access to an official audio tour that’s affordable and detailed. There’s also an excellent free audio tour from Rick Steves .

If you just want to absorb the visuals, you can go in on your own. Regardless, you’re asked to keep silent while you’re inside.

It’s open Monday through Saturday, 8:30 am - 19:30 (7:30 pm), and Sunday 9:00 am - 18:00 (6 pm), and as of July 2020, it’s free to enter.

The Pantheon also hosts mass twice a week, at 17:00 (5 pm) on Saturday and 10:30 am on Sunday.

Outside the Pantheon is another obelisk, this one originally standing at a Temple of Ra in Heliopolis, Egypt, then at a temple to the Egyptian goddess Isis here in Rome, and then, finally, here in the Piazza della Rotonda.

10. CHURCH OF ST. LOUIS OF THE FRENCH

The Church of San Luigi delle Francese is dedicated to several saints, but the name refers to Louis IX, the sainted king of France.

It’s another beneficiary of the Medici family’s donations and one of many cases of European powers creating and having an honorary connection to major buildings in Rome.

Among the many separate states that used to make up present-day Italy, there were the Papal States.

These were territories ruled by the pope in a non-religious capacity, on top of his role as a religious leader across the whole Catholic world.

Rome was the center of the Papal States, and today, it still contains the church’s political territory, Vatican City.

But when the Holy See was the main power here, churches like these represented a kind of embassy from other Catholic countries.

The church you see today dates from 1589, but it’s on a site used for the same purpose for possibly centuries before.

At ground level on the left, you can see a statue of Charlemagne, King of the Franks and Holy Roman Emperor.

11. PIAZZA NAVONA

As you enter Piazza Navona, there are lots of possible first impressions, but I’ll suggest starting with the big picture.

You’ve seen piazzas in plenty of irregular shapes, but this one has the form of a long, narrow oval.

In the first century AD, this was a racecourse, part of the Stadium of Domitian, Rome’s first permanent stadium for athletic competitions.

If you go a block out of the piazza to the north – to your right – from the smaller Piazza di Tor Sanguigna, looking south, you can see some ruins of the stadium under a modern building. There is also a museum .

Besides those ruins, the oldest thing you can see is the Palazzo Pamphilj, the building on the opposite side from where you arrived on the far left.

This was the family home of 17 th -century Pope Innocent X, and most of what you see in the piazza came from him improving his stomping grounds.

His work benefitted the general public in a way since this piazza was the city’s official public market.

But on the other hand, famines in that era meant that as these buildings were under construction, there wasn’t always food in those markets. Innocent’s home is now the Brazilian Embassy.

Sant’ Agnese in Agone (center) Palazzo Pamphilj (left)

He’s also responsible for the church to the right of his home, Sant’ Agnese in Agone. The Saint Agnes in the name of the church has a legendary connection with the Stadium of Domitian.

The Stadium contained brothels, and in the early years of Christianity, when the religion was still illegal in the Roman empire.

Agnes is said to have been punished for her religion by being sent there, only to have her hair miraculously grow to cover her body when she was stripped. 

Fontana del Nettuno

The other famous feature of the Piazza Navona is its fountains.

At your right is the Fontana del Nettuno or the Fountain of Neptune, which shows the god of the ocean wrestling a sea monster, along with our old friend the hippocampus, and other water creatures.

The fountain itself is part of that 17 th -century burst of improvements, but the statues are added much later.

On your left is the Fontana del Moro or Fountain of the Moor, added at the same time, again with later statuary.

Fontana del Moro

And in the middle is the Fontana dei Quattro Fiumi or the Fountain of the Four Rivers.  Here we’re in Bernini’s hands again, and we get to see him as both architect and sculptor.

The Four Rivers in the name are the four corners of the monument, each representing a river in what Romans of the 17 th century considered the four parts of the world: the Danube in Europe, the Nile in Africa, the Ganges in Asia, and the Rio de la Plata in South America.

Italian explorers were very much in demand for expeditions to the New World, even if they sailed under other flags.

The details around each statue give a hint of which is which, and you can also see the expressiveness and sense of movement that Bernini’s sculptures are famous for.

All four are in submission, more or less willingly, to the obelisk at the center, which, like others we’ve seen, has a cross on top and so symbolizes the divine authority of the Church in Rome.

If you’d like a view of Piazza Navona from on high, the Brazilian Embassy has a rooftop bar that’s open to the public, and there’s also an optional view from our next stop.

When you’re ready, we’ll leave the piazza from the southern end, by the Fontana del Moro.

Once you have all three fountains behind you, turn right and leave the piazza on the Via di Pasquino, along the edge of the Brazilian Embassy.

When you reach an intersection, look on your left for a damaged statue behind a small chained barricade.

This is Pasquino, the namesake of the street. He’s older than any building you’ve seen, dug up and put on display in the 15 th century.

He’s one of Rome’s “talking statues” – several places where it’s popular to post statements of protest, often in poetic form, and to get attention for your thoughts while remaining anonymous.

12. MUSEO DI ROMA – PALAZZO BRASCHI

The Palazzo Braschi was built as a home for the nephew of Pope Pius IX.

Along with the Piazza Navona, this was an example of popes exercising their political power to the benefit of their own family, and in this case, unlike the piazza, it was a purely private benefit.

Uses of power like this were part of what drove the wave of revolutions across Europe in the late 18 th century and onward.

And that laid the groundwork for the Italian unification, which took some material power away from the popes. But the chance to abuse power fell into other hands.

In the early 20 th century, this building was the headquarters of Benito Mussolini, the head of Italy’s fascist government.

During that time, the building had a massive image of Mussolini’s face on the side.

When that government fell after World War II, the city of Rome took over this property, and today it’s part of the Museum of Rome.

If you’re thinking about entering the museum, one of the attractions is a view over Piazza Navona from the second and third floors. You can also get a view of the piazza’s past from here.

The museum’s modest collection includes documentation of many bygone Roman scenes, including what Piazza Navona looked like before Pope Innocent, as well as what many historic sites looked like before a burst of demolitions in the early 20 th century.

If your interest in Rome is at all to do with the layers of its history and how a modern city lives alongside the relics of its own past, this museum is worth your time, and the interior of the building itself is a beautiful bonus.

Information is available in English as well as Italian. It’s open 10:00 am - 19:00 (7 pm) every day but Monday and costs 11 Euros to enter.

13. LARGO DI TORRE ARGENTINA

Innocuous as it is, this spot is one of the most read-about places in Rome, if not the most visited.

The ruins here include part of the Portico of Pompey, the place where Julius Caesar was stabbed to death in 44 BC.

Pompey, the building’s namesake, who you’ll hear more about soon, was Julius Caesar’s rival in a civil war, and after Caesar’s victory, Caesar was declared dictator.

Just a few years later, he was murdered, leading to a period of war that ended Rome’s time as a republic.

If you’re familiar with the story, you may remember that Julius Caesar was stabbed on the steps of the Senate.

At the time, the senate was temporarily meeting here, since the usual senate building was under a renovation that Caesar had ordered.

The spot was lost until 1929 when a demolition uncovered it. It also contains the remains of four temples, devoted to Roman gods that are less famous today.

But emperors and gods aside, people usually show up for the main attraction – cats!

As soon as the site was unearthed, a horde of homeless cats moved in, and today, it’s a shelter for mostly the injured and abused. Volunteers take care of feeding, healthcare, and spaying and neutering.

There’s a stairway that leads down into a gift shop and adoption area , where you can donate, meet volunteers, or hang out with the cats themselves.

14. THEATER OF POMPEY

You have to use your imagination for this part. Ancient Roman theaters were semicircular, with dozens of tiers of seats looking down toward a central half-circle stage.

An actor walking the lip of the stage could look at all the thousands of people in the theater in just a few steps.

Most theaters were temporary, but the first permanent one was the Theater of Pompey, and you’re walking the edge of its stage. That shape is the only remnant of the theater visible from here.

We mentioned Pompey at our last stop – his name was on the building where Julius Caesar was stabbed.

Pompey was a contemporary of Caesar’s, also a war hero to the Romans. After one of his victories, he announced he would build a theater for the public.

Theaters were popular but regarded as centers of vice, so permanent theater buildings were illegal within the city.

But Pompey built his in the Campus Martius, outside the city, and combined in a single facility a theater, a temple to Venus, a garden, and a sort of museum, with art representing great Roman works of the past and the many places Pompey had helped conquer for Rome.

So the place was also sort of a temple to Pompey himself. You’ll be able to see a tiny vestige from our next stop.

15. CAMPO DE’ FIORI

As you emerge into Campo de’ Fiori, look over your right shoulder at the short side of the piazza.

From the short buildings nearest to you, they get gradually taller to the left, and the walls meet at odd angles.

At one spot, you can see exposed, corroded brick – that’s a fragment of the Temple of Venus that once stood at the top of the Theater of Pompey.

The name Campo de’ Fiori is also ancient – before the theater was built, this area was a campo, meaning a field, of fiori, meaning flowers.

From there, we jump to the 16 th century, which is the era of the shrouded figure you see standing on a pedestal halfway along the piazza.

That’s Giordano Bruno, a Dominican priest who was schooled in Naples, but became a wanderer of Europe after he found out the Inquisition was investigating him.

As a student, he had read forbidden works and argued unpopular positions, and his vagabond life sent him further down that road.

He claimed that the earth revolved around the sun, that the universe was infinite and contained many little systems like ours, and that everything big and small was made of tiny, similar particles arranged in different ways, with an invisible force holding them together – which in his eyes was God.

After years on the road, he returned home, and the Inquisition imprisoned him for seven years, tried him as a heretic, and burned him at the stake where the statue stands now.

The statue dates from soon after the unification and therefore secularization of Italy, and it was arranged by a group of Roman students, who sought out the help of a few famous writers in bringing attention to the cause.

They positioned it facing toward Vatican City. The inscription in Latin reads, “To Bruno, from the era he predicted, here where the fire burned.”

It’s still a rallying point for all kinds of nonconformist groups and causes today.

The beauty of an Italian piazza is that a story like that can be commemorated in the middle and a million other things are going on all around it.

Campo de’ Fiori is an eventful marketplace with cafes, restaurants, and people-watching galore. After all this exploring, maybe it’s time for those things, in which case you have lots of choices within view.

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One Day in Rome Itinerary and Self Guided Walking Tour

• January 24, 2024

Incredible architecture, remnants of an ancient world, unbelievable churches, and notorious landmarks. These are just some of the things you’ll stumble upon (sometimes without even trying) in Italy’s capital city of Rome. We’ve all heard the saying “Rome wasn’t built in a day,” so how could you possibly see it in one day? If you’re the type that appreciates a maximized itinerary with little time , you’ll be pleased to know how attainable a day in Rome can actually be.

In this guide, discover a recommended day trip itinerary along with many important things to know before you go.

Is One Day in Rome Enough?

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The historic centre of Rome isn’t particularly big, but the remainder of the city is massive. In fact, it’s the largest municipality in Italy. Fortunately, most tourists will want to focus on seeing the top sites in Rome, which are conveniently and centrally located within the same nook. The close proximity of its most renowned landmarks to one another is one of the biggest factors that make one day in Rome actually palatable. Compared to a city like NYC, where much of your time is spent traveling from one side of town to the other, you can surprisingly see a lot in Rome in a short amount of time .

As folks who have now visited Rome multiple times, we can confidently say that each time we return, there’s been something new discovered. To genuinely experience Rome and maybe even see Rome like a local is not possible in one day. With that being said, it is still feasible to see a handful of the most notable sights with just one day in Rome. Although one day in Rome isn’t quite enough, it shouldn’t deter you from visiting with the time you do have.

A fair warning though, this Rome itinerary is jam-packed and may not be for everyone . Who will love this itinerary? Travelers who are set on checking out all the must-sees in Rome and have a little pep in their step. Travelers who will be satisfied to merely visit landmarks from the outside and not actually enter .

This one-day itinerary in Rome is not best suited for people who want to actually go inside the Vatican, Colosseum, Castel Sant’Angelo and Pantheon. These activities take up a good chunk of time and aren’t practical for just a Rome day trip.

The Best Time to Visit Rome for a Day

To provide our readers with honesty and thorough travel advice, we won’t sugarcoat this next part. Rome can be unbearable if you visit during the wrong time. The city welcomes over 10 million visitors each year, and there’s no sign of this slowing down. As a visitor, it’s important to be aware of what you are walking into and have certain expectations in order to avoid disappointment. There will be crowds, there will be lines, and it likely won’t feel like you’re in a dream.

With that being said, a place can be all these things and still be 100% worth seeing. To ensure you’re visiting Rome during the most enjoyable time, there are two things to be aware of.

If it’s in your control, do not plan a visit to Rome in the summer. This isn’t even necessarily because of the crowds but because of the extreme heat . Each time we’ve visited Rome in the summer months, our day ended in a puddle of our own sweat (and maybe tears). For this self-guided walking tour of Rome in particular, it’s not recommended to attempt it in 35°C / 95°F weather.

Travellers who are eager to attend at least one attraction should also know that tickets are sold out for 2-3 weeks ahead of time in the summer.

One of the best things to do in Rome is to see it at sunrise . If you are not planning on entering any of the landmarks, try to schedule your one day in Rome to begin just before the sun comes up. This will result in a couple of things such as getting the best photos at Rome’s hotspots and having to steer around fewer people while walking. The lighting is extraordinary, and there’s a sense of magic as you witness Rome waking up for the day.

How to See Rome in One Day

We are some of the biggest advocates for self-guided trips, mostly because it came out of necessity. When you’re traveling with a large dog and a toddler, it’s sometimes best to do everything on your own time. *shrug* However, if you are visiting Rome for a day without an entire circus, booking a Hop-On Hop-Off bus will save your feet the walking .

The Hop-On Hop-Off bus works particularly well for a Rome day trip because it will stop at all the major attractions. After purchasing your ticket, you’ll hop on the bus at the main departure location, which is usually at Termini station. From there, you’ll receive a map of the stops throughout the city where you can get off and get on as you please during the day. Overall, this is hands down the best way to see Rome in a short amount of time if you’re just looking to get the gist of it .

Pack some really comfortable shoes and come prepared to see Rome on the most personal level, by walking . For travelers who are physically able to, it’s highly recommended to complete this one-day tour of Rome on foot. It is the only way to truly appreciate Rome beyond the tourist hotspots. As you’re walking from one site to another, you’ll come across narrow alleyways, secret courtyards, and hole-in-the-wall bars or restaurants that you otherwise wouldn’t have known about. To experienced travelers like us, it’s unexpected finds like that which end up being the best part of a trip.

A walking tour of Rome also does not mean it has to be a sprint. Although it’s a lot of steps and distance to cover, it can be leisurely. Get an early start, do not rush it and always stop for a caffè or gelato when the opportunity presents itself. Luckily, there are also many park benches and marble structures around Rome where you can sit down and take a breather .

If you’ve been to any major city lately, you may have noticed the use of electric scooters as a method of transportation. Personally, we think they’re really fun to use and can be a huge time-saver if you know what you’re doing . As a solo traveler or even a couple, using the electric scooters will get you through a Rome itinerary efficiently.

Most recently, we noticed around three different electric scooter companies (there are likely more) in the city center of Rome: Bird, Lime, and Helbiz. Each of these works similarly in terms of how to use them. If you already have the app for any of these, then simply scan and get moving. If not, you’ll need to download the app and complete a brief signup before scooting away. Prices are on average around €1 for the initial startup and then €.25/minute thereafter . 

The one thing to keep top of mind before renting an electric scooter in Rome is your confidence level and experience. For first timers, it can be nerve racking to manuever through cars, taxis and even mobs of people.

Public Transportation

The public transportation system in Rome is comprised of the underground metro, above-ground trams, and buses. Similar to many popular tourist destinations in Europe, it’s possible to purchase a 24-hour pass which costs €7 in Rome. This pass is valid on all types of public transportation.

Out three metro lines, tourists will be most interested in knowing about Line A and B. Line A easily connects the west side of River Tiber (Vatican City) with the east side , where a majority of the attractions are. Line B is then helpful for getting to the Colosseum. For reaching the heart of the historic quarter (Trevi Fountain, Pantheon, and more), do not rely on taking the metro as there is zero metro coverage in that area.

Using the above-ground tram is mostly useful for getting to the Trastevere neighborhood (line 3) on the west side of the River Tiber. Navigating your way throughout Rome’s major sites using the tram is not recommended to be your primary form of transportation. The majority of the trams have “tap to pay” systems, which allow you to tap your credit card (or Apple Pay) and pay for a single-use ride on the spot.

Rome’s bus system is the most vast and covers the entirety of its suburbs including the historic centre. If you bought the 24-hour transportation pass, you can use this on the bus. Or, you can simply tap your credit card or phone at the front of the bus as you get on and the €2 ticket is valid for 100 minutes . You cannot purchase a bus ride in cash with the driver. Surprisingly, Google Maps is accurate when it comes to bus directions in Rome based on the destination landmark you enter. To find the bus stop, simply keep a lookout for the yellow signs which say fermata on them.

An Eventful One Day in Rome Itinerary

Vatican city.

As the smallest sovereign state, Vatican City is home to the largest church in the world and exists as a country within the city of Rome. It is renowned for many of its components including St. Peter’s Basilica , the Gardens of Vatican City, and the Vatican Museums. The Sistine Chapel is one of the most well-known reasons to visit Vatican City as it’s where you’ll find the celebrated Michelangelo’s ceiling.

Visiting the Vatican Museums takes a minimum of two hours . To include touring the actual interior of Vatican City during your one day in Rome, it’s recommended that you take the morning tour at 9am.

Alternatively, you can skip entering the Vatican and appreciate its exterior. To keep this Rome itinerary completely free of costs and to maximize on time, travelers can simply admire St. Peter’s Basilica from St. Peter’s Square .

Castel Sant’Angelo

Steps away from Vatican City is the fortress of Castle Sant’Angelo, originally built during the 2nd century. It currently offers exhibits of medieval weapons , priceless paintings, and even a glimpse into Renaissance-era apartments . You’ll also find a mausoleum for a former Roman emperor and have the opportunity to climb to the top for a stunning view.

Entrance to Castel Sant’Angelo is one of the more affordable major attractions in Rome at just €13. However, you would need to set aside at least one hour to tour it. Budget travelers who are looking to complete this itinerary without spending can remain impressed by the castle’s sheer greatness from the outside.

Spanish Steps

After seeing the biggest sites in Rome located on the west side of the river, it’s time to venture to the other side. The stroll will take you along the Tiber and by a bonus site, the extraordinary Supreme Court building . You’ll cross the historic Ponte Cavour to reach Via Tomacelli which then turns into Via dei Condotti, a street filled with high-end fashion shops . In total, it’s a 20 minute walk before you reach the Spanish Steps.

Known as Scalinata di Trinità dei Monti in Italian, the Spanish Steps were built in the 18th century in a grand and, at the time, unusual design. The striking staircase is the widest and longest in all of Europe and has become famous from movie appearances as well as the hosting location for cultural events.

Metro Ride from Spagna to Colosseo Station

It’d be a shame not to take advantage of the Spagna metro station located right at the Spanish Steps. To avoid a 30-minute walk to the Colosseo, catch Line A from Spagna to Termini where you’ll transfer to Line B and get off at Colosseo. This 12-minute ride will be the rest you need after a busy morning.

If there’s one thing you must see during your day trip to Rome, it’s the Colosseum. It’s one of the most famous monuments in Rome and even the world . Originally known as the Flavian Amphitheatre, the landmark is a true symbol of the greatness of old-world Rome and the Eternal City. The ancient arena was prominently famed for hosting lavish gladiator fights and combats, which also included exotic animals.

The surrounding area of the Colosseum is open to the public without any admission fees. As you gaze at the Colosseum’s walls from its perimeter, you’ll also see the astonishing Arch of Constantine . For one of the best views and photo opportunities of the Colosseum, walk up the stairs from street level to reach Giardinetto del Monte Oppio .

Trajan Forum & Monument to Victor Emmanuel II

From the Colosseum, you’ll begin the trek down the stately Via dei Fori Imperiali , an avenue running in parallel to the Roman Forum and straight to the Monument to Victor Emmanuel II. The Forum is a paid attraction, located on one side of the avenue, but on the opposing side is where you’ll find the Trajan Forum, the ruins of a Roman square that are free to visit. Since you’re already in the area, the Trajan Forum is very quick detour to make along this one day Rome itinerary.

The Monument to Victor Emmanuel II is an enormous white building built out of marble, topped with imposing statues. Built between 1885 and 1935, the building is practically new if you compare it to the long history of its neighboring landmarks. As the name implies, the site was created in honor of unified Italy’s very first king, Vittorio Emanuele II.

Trevi Fountain

The walk to the Trevi Fountain takes about 15 minutes and allows you to casually pass by the family home of Napoleon Bonaparte’s mother . Or, you can take the path which passes by Basilica dei Santi XII Apostoli , one of the most underrated churches in Rome. It’s beautifully filled with Renaissance frescoes, theatrical marble columns, and masterful architecture.

The Fontana di Trevi is a staple of any Rome itinerary and is also convenient to visit as it sits outdoors without any admission fee. The fountain is sculpted to replicate a scene of Neptune, the god of the sea , and his usual surroundings of a chariot and winged horses as he controls the waters. Completed in the late 1700s, this gorgeous masterpiece is still fed by water from one of the city’s aqueducts . With massive recognition, the Trevi Fountain definitely knows how to attract a crowd at any time of the day.

From the Trevi Fountain, it’s a brief ten-minute walk to the Pantheon. If you miraculously have some time to spare, make an impromptu detour at Chiesa di Sant’Ignazio di Loyola . This church is famous for its extravagant ceiling, which is painted in the style of an optical illusion, making the objects look three-dimensional .

Arriving at the Pantheon is most magical at sunset . If you time your day just right, you can try to catch that golden hue which gives the Pantheon an extra touch of photogenic boost. The iconic temple reigns supreme in a couple of aspects but is most known for being the best-preserved ancient Roman building .

Architecturally, it’s considered a marvel and somewhat of a miracle that it’s still intact today. Originally built as a temple for all the gods, the dome is now home to many important figures in Italian culture, including painters, composers, and architects.

Piazza Navona

Depending on the time of year you visit, your one day in Rome may conclude in the dark. Luckily, Rome is just as breathtaking at night as it is in the daylight . Like all other monuments, Piazza Navona is lit up after the sun sets , which makes its fountains arguably even more intriguing. The square is closed off to traffic and is comprised of three fountains : the Fountain of the Moro, the Neptune Fountain, and the Fiumi Fountain, the largest one. Furthermore, the romantic scene is backed by the magnificent 17th-century church of Sant’Agnese in Agone.

Piazza Navona is the perfect place to bring your one day in Rome to an end with some drinks and dinner . The square is quintessential Rome and lined with one restaurant after another, all boasting dreamy views of the glowing fountains to admire.

Bonus: Nightlife in Trastavere

Although it’s definitely not a hidden gem, Rome’s best neighborhood goes by the name of Trastevere. The trendy, picturesque, and charming quarter is filled with idyllic outdoor restaurants, vintage shops, and enough bars to last you a lifetime. Trastevere is generally quiet during the day and especially dead before 12pm. The neighborhood thrives after 9pm and is effortlessly the coolest place in Rome to ride into the night.

To add Trastevere as your last stop on this one day in Rome adventure, it’s recommended to take a cab or catch the tram from Arenula/Cairoli towards Trastevere .

IMPORTANT NOTE: This self-guided walking tour of Rome begins in Vatican City and ends at Piazza Navona . If you are driving to Rome, it’s recommended to park at Parking Piazza Cavour located near the Vatican. In this case, you’ll need to account for the walk from Piazza Navona back to the parking garage at the end of the day.

For travelers who are spending the night in Rome , it’s recommended to choose accommodation near the ending point of Piazza Navona.

FAQs for Seeing Rome in One Day

The best part about this one-day itinerary in Rome is that it can be completely free . Without factoring in the cost of either parking or public transportation to get into Rome center from the airport, you don’t have to spend anything. Firstly, it is possible to spend one day in Rome for free by walking the route instead of taking the metro, bus, or taxi . Secondly, you’ll need to make the choice to not enter any of the sites and simply admire them from the outside instead.

Alternatively, the amount you spend on one day in Rome can vary depending on how you choose to get around and what you see. If you opt for taking a Hop On Hop Off bus instead of walking, expect to pay around €25 per person for transportation. On the other hand, one metro ride in Rome only costs €1.50 . Visitors who are set on entering one or two attractions should budget for admission costs. You can expect to pay around €30 for entrance to the Vatican and €40 for the Colosseum .

Dining in Rome is another aspect of your daily budget to keep in mind. If you’re on the go and don’t want to stop for a sit-down meal, you can find sandwiches and similar “hand” food for €5 . A traditional experience at a trattoria or ristorante will cost anywhere from €15 – €40 per person depending on how fancy you get.

Your one day in Rome should be considered precious, assuming you are on a mission to make the most of it. The one activity that isn’t worth the time and doesn’t provide an authentic experience of Rome is shopping for souvenirs. Rome has no shortage of small shops and even curb side tents where products are literally dumped on tables and priced at low prices. Aside from wasting time, sifting through the plastic figurines and low-quality bracelets is not what Rome is about.

Need better ideas for souvenirs from Rome? Consider the Italian staple candy “Pocket Coffee” or a small vintage item from an antique store like Bruschini Tanca Antichità .

This self-guided walking route for one day in Rome is roughly 9 km (5.6 miles) long. However, this doesn’t take into consideration the walking you’ll do around the attractions and any detours made to find a bite to eat or a gelato cone. It is effortlessly possible to end up walking as much as 16 km (10 miles) during your one day in Rome. This means the number of steps you’ll take can range from 12,000 steps to 22,000 steps in just one day.

We have multiple experiences with parking in Rome. Somehow, they were all different from one another which just goes to show you how unpredictable the city can be. One time, we stayed about 5 km south of the city center and ended up parking our car on a curb for four days with zero questions asked and no tickets. Unfortunately, the closer you are to the city center, the tougher everything is for travelers with a car.

Street Parking

If you are lucky, you can attempt to find street parking, but remember, it must be outside of ZTL zones . In Italy, you’ll see signs for ZTL zones, which are limited traffic zones and essentially mean you cannot drive there as a non resident. Hefty fines are handed out for disobeying these zones during the posted times.

Street parking in Italy is fairly simple to understand. White lines mean it’s free . Do not plan on finding free parking as your plan A. Blue lines mean you must pay hourly or for up to 8 hours at a time (either at the meter or with the EasyPark app ). Street parking fees vary by location but will typically cost around €1.50 per hour. Parking spots marked with yellow lines are a no-go for regular cars.

Parking Garages

There are very few large parking garages in the centre of Rome, especially on the east side of the Tiber River. Near the historic quarter of Rome, you’ll only find small garages that are tricky to enter and may not even fit your vehicle if you’re driving anything larger than a Fiat. We’ve parked near the Colosseum where the cost ended up being around €20 for just 4 hours. This is comparatively normal for Rome but otherwise, not very affordable.

For tourists visiting Rome for the day, the best parking garage is behind the Supreme Court. You’ll find it as Parking Piazza Cavour on Google Maps and the cost is just under €3 per hour. The garage is enormous with many spots, secure and easy to get in and out of.

There are many reasons why travelers may need to store luggage during their day in Rome. Whether you’re in the city for a long layover, checking in/out at an odd time, or only spending a few hours in Rome before catching a train, ditch your luggage for a less stressful experience. Trust us, nobody wants to be the person dragging around luggage on the noisy cobblestone roads around the Colosseum.

Thankfully, it’s a common problem, which means there are many solutions in a tourist destination like Rome. You can simply search for “luggage storage” on Google Maps and you’ll see a number of luggage storage points, with a ton located near Termini train station . Additionally, you can even walk into any hotel, whether you’re staying there or not. Most hotels will be happy to hold onto your luggage for a fee.

Leonardo da Vinci Airport is Rome’s international airport that’s located 30 km west of the city centre. There is an amazing designated train service that takes passengers from FCO Airport to Termini Station in just 30 minutes . Unless you’re travelling in the middle of the night, the train is even quicker than driving to Rome.

The cost for the Leonardo Express train is €14 one-way and can be booked either on site or online. If you’re the type who likes to be prepared and don’t want to waste time in the ticket line, book the ticket with Trenitalia in advance.

Best Trevi Fountain Stay

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Best Vatican City Stay

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Best Spanish Steps Stay

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Best Boutique Hotel Stay

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Rome Highlights in One Day - How to see it all (almost)!

By Elyssa Bernard

March 6, 2022

Only have 24 hours in Rome ? Want to see the Rome highlights in one day?

Everyone (including me) will tell you that you need more time in Rome, but if you only have a day, and want to see the top sights, here's how!

Rome Highlights in One Day - a Perfect Day in Rome

This page is mostly about walking through Rome's city center on your own , and seeing as many highlights and famous monuments, piazzas, and fountains in Rome as you can absorb in a one-day visit.

My suggestions come from doing this walk hundreds of times with friends and family, and with our guests when we ran our B&B.

I promise you it's very feasible.

If you follow my suggested route, you will include all the must-see attractions in Rome in one day.

And, as a bonus, the entire walk is completely free (except for any food or drink you might consume.)

In a nutshell, the stops are:

• Spanish Steps

Trevi Fountain

Piazza navona, castel sant'angelo.

• Saint Peter's Square and Basilica

Campo dei Fiori

• Capitoline Hill with views of the Roman Forum

Via dei Fori Imperiali

• Colosseum (from the outside)

Click here to visit my Google map where you can see the route (it opens in a new window.)

On this page you will find step-by-step instructions, maplets (that does not seem to be a word but I'm making it up to mean little maps showing a closeup of that particular step in the route!), and lots of photos for an easy-to-follow full-day walking tour of these Rome Highlights in One Day .

I've included some suggestions for fabulous gelato , coffee , and lunch along the way.

Oh and a wine bar or two.

What's NOT on this page

On this page, my suggestions don't include visits to the Vatican Museums  (where the Sistine Chapel is) or inside the Colosseum / Roman Forum  / Palatine Hill .

If you want to see the Colosseum and Vatican Museums in one day, visit my page here.

The actual walk would take about around 2 hours if you didn't stop at all (Google Maps clocks it at 1 hour and 40 minutes!)

But you should account for food and rest stops, picture taking , getting a little lost, popping into a church or two, and spending time enjoying some of the views, plazas, monuments, and fountains. 

So  plan for 8-10 hours total , including a lunch stop .

I'd start around 9 am at the latest.

Don't feel like walking?

Further down the page you'll find options for seeing top Rome sites in one day:

With the Hop on / hop off bus

With a car and driver or golf cart tour

On a Vespa or e-bike tour

As a shore excursion

Disclosure: If you make a purchase through a link on this page, I may receive a small commission - at no extra cost to you. Thank you for supporting my site!

Visit Rome in 1 Day on Foot

I am partial to seeing Rome on foot, although I realize that's not for everyone.

But if you only have one day in Rome, and can manage several hours of walking, you will see a lot more if you walk.

And you can stop when you want to for a coffee , lunch , gelato ,  or just to absorb it all.

Want to take the guessing out of it?

Click here to take a walking tour of the city center and let someone show you the way.

How to Explore Rome in a Day - Start your walk at the top of the Spanish Steps

One reason I like to start this walk here is because we start up high and walk down.

From there, much of the rest of the walk is fairly flat.

Second of all, you can start out with a  breathtaking panoramic view of Rome .

You can reach this area  by metro  (there is a Metro stop at the bottom of the steps, and an elevator will take you to the top.)

You could also take the Metro to Piazza Barberini and see Bernini's beautiful fountain, then walk about 5 minutes to the top of the steps from there.

The lookout at the top of the Spanish Steps can be a bit crowded.

If you keep walking about 200 meters, you will come to the Villa Medici on your right. 

And on your left, you will have all the gorgeous views (mostly) to yourself.

Now head down the Steps....

.... and you will be smack in Rome's most famous shopping zone , Piazza di Spagna.

You could easily spend a lot of time shopping in this area if you are interested and have time.

But if you're trying to see the highlights in one day, I suggest you keep going!

The next stop is the Trevi Fountain , just a short walk from the Spanish Square.

In the map below, you can see the walk  takes less than 10 minutes, unless you stop on the way.

You may also want to visit this page about how to walk between the Spanish Steps and the Trevi Fountain , where I share lots of hidden gems along the way!

The Pantheon

As you face the Trevi Fountain, turn to your right and walk fairly straight until you come to the Pantheon.

If you take the most direct route possible, you will pass Piazza di Pietra where you can see Hadrian's temple.

Two of my favorite places to eat and drink are here so if it's time for a break, try Spiriti wine bar or Osteria dell'Ingegno .

Visiting the Pantheon

The Pantheon is 5 euros and is open from 9 am to 7 pm with last entry at 6:30 pm.

The first Sunday of every month entry is free and it is also free for liturgical activities and Holy Mass. 

  Find out more on my dedicated page   for online ticket purchases.

Once inside, the visit won't take long, usually about 15 minutes.

Make your way from the Pantheon to Piazza Navona .

These two sites are only a short walk apart, but there are a couple of interesting detours along the way.

Time for a treat!

If you are ready for something quick to eat/drink, Piazza Sant'Eustachio is the perfect spot.

There you will find what I call the trifecta of yummy food.

You will find some of the best pizza , gelato , and coffee all in this piazza (see below about sitting down at a café.)

The pizza and gelato are both either to-go or you can stand around eating them but you won't be charged more since there is no table service.

To sit or not to sit?

As you do this walk and pass so many beautiful piazzas, you may feel like sitting and enjoying a coffee, gelato or sandwich.

If you sit down at a café/bar, i.e. not a restaurant, you need to know that it costs considerably more to sit down and consume anything than it does to go inside and consume it at the counter .

This is not because it's a "touristy" area.

That's just part of the culture in Italy .

But sitting in any of these piazzas is lovely and I do it a lot.

Just check the menu, or ask before you order about the price difference.

Caravaggio stop!

Another interesting detour on this walk is the church of San Luigi dei Francesi .

If it's open and you have time, you may want to pop in to see the stunning Contarelli chapel with 3 paintings by Baroque master Caravaggio .

After you visit Piazza Navona, go behind the Brazilian Embassy towards via del Governo Vecchio .

This is a fun and cute cobblestone street full of boutiques, vintage shops and cafés .

At the very beginning of this street in Piazza di Pasquino, you'll find  Cul de Sac , which could be a good lunch stop.

If you don't feel like stopping here yet, there are plenty more places to eat along this street and further along in the walk.

Keep walking down Via del Governo Vecchio.

It turns into Via dei Banchi Nuovi .

Take this street and follow it all the way across the bridge to the Castel Sant'Angelo .

Ready to plan your trip?

Saint Peter's Square

From Castel Sant'Angelo, you can see  Vatican Square  which means you are seeing Vatican City , a separate state from Italy!

Saint peter's square and saint peter's basilica

Visit St. Peter's Square from the outside - unless you want to make time to go inside Saint Peter's Basilica .

It's free to enter the basilica but there is a queue to go through security, and even in low season/ winter , it can take an hour just to get through the line, plus extra time if you want to climb the dome .

As I mentioned at the top, on this walk, you won't have time to visit the Vatican Museums where the Sistine Chapel is.

If you do want to include the Vatican Museums on a one-day visit to Rome, visit my page here .

If you are a little off schedule or tired, and need to cut things short, you could get on the metro near the Vatican at the Ottaviano stop, and take it back to Termini train station or wherever is convenient.

Some Vatican city history and facts

After visiting Vatican City, cross the Tiber river again, and this time, make your way towards the Via Giulia, a lovely quiet cobblestone street full of beautiful doorways, small boutiques, artisan shops, cafés and wine bars.

Come all the way up the via Giulia until you come to the archway with hanging vines.

Turn left and follow the walls of the French Embassy, Palazzo Farnese .  

You'll arrive at  Piazza Farnese , one of the prettiest squares in Rome. 

Those two giant bathtub fountains you see on Piazza Farnese were originally from the Caracalla Baths .

Yep, the ancient Romans bathed in them!

From Piazza Farnese, head towards Campo de' Fiori , one piazza over.

This is an historic piazza in Rome (it was once the main site for public executions), and used to be the main city center market (it is still a market but you will now find many stalls geared towards tourists.)

Today it's also know for its nightlife.

From Campo dei Fiori, walk up via dei Giubbonari towards Largo Argentina , where you can see   the ruins where Julius Caesar was assassinated . 

The ruins also happen to be home to a cat sanctuary that you can visit if you want.

From here, make your way along the via delle Botteghe Oscure towards Piazza Venezia .

Visiting Capitoline hill - a must!

You may want to go to the front of the monument to take a look and to get some photos.

Then, walk up and around to the right so you can climb the ramp to  Capitoline Hill   (Campidoglio.)

As you come up the ramp, note the beautiful piazza including the pavement.  This was all  designed by Michelangelo  towards the end of his life.

Campidoglio is where City Hall is, and where Alessandro and I got married !

It's also home to the Capitoline Museums .

You won't have time to visit the museums, but right in the square you can see a bronze statue of Roman emperor Marcus Aurelius .

The statue is a replica; the original is inside the Capitoline Museums.

Roman Forum

Walk around the right-hand side to the back of this plaza. There you'll have a wonderful view of the Roman Forum from above.

You can also see a bit of the Colosseum peeking up in the way back.

After you view the Roman Forum, walk back around to the left-hand side of City Hall.

You will see a replica of the  bronze she-wolf, the symbol of Rome  (the original is inside the Capitoline Museums.)

Walk down the back side of this hill to the left, and you'll be on the Via dei Fori Imperiali. 

From here you can see the Colosseum.

This is where the forums, or administrative centers, of three of Rome's emperors once stood (they are mostly in ruins now, but still visible which is why this is such a scenic walk.)

As you walk towards the Colosseum, you'll pass on your left in this order: the forums of Trajan , Augustus, and Nerva .

There is a fourth forum, the one on your right. This is the Forum of Julius Caesar (who was not an emperor, but rather a dictator.)

The Colosseum is the last major site on this walk. You can walk right up to it and all around it.

Want to know why there are holes in it? What those Roman numerals above the arches mean?

Find out on my page Facts About the Roman Colosseum .

And now, you have seen the Rome highlights in one day!

Rome Highlights in One Day - other options

Hop-off/hop-on open bus.

An easy option for seeing the top Rome attractions in one day is to take one of the many  hop-on/hop-off open buses .

These buses have 24-hour and 48-hour ticket options, and you can take them all around Rome .

If you opt for this, I'd suggest doing a full round-trip once (it takes around 1.5 hours). This will give you a good overview and then you can decide where you want to get off the second time around.

Some of the most important sights in Rome, like the Pantheon , Trevi Fountain or Piazza Navona , are not visible or accessible by bus so you'll have to get off and walk a tiny bit to see them.

To see the route almost all the companies take, and to book in advance, go here .

Private tour with car and driver/golf-cart

If you can splurge a little, hiring a private driver with car and a guide can be an excellent way to get around Rome easily, without having to think about any of it.

These guys do this a lot, and know how and where to take visitors so they really get a lot out of a full day in Rome.

You have the option of hiring a private car and driver , or of hiring a private golf cart tour , which is also a lot of fun!

Best of Rome in One Day - Vespa or e-bike tour

A fun and interesting way to see the highlights of Rome in one day is on a Vespa scooter or on an e-bike. You can do either of these as a rental on your own, or with a tour.

If you only have one day in Rome , you might want to do this as a tour so you don't get lost or stress too much about trying to find all the sites.

Rome Highlights in a Day - on a cruise stop

If you are visiting Rome in one day because your cruise stops here, you actually have less than 24 hours to see the sights in Rome.

When you are visiting Rome as a shore excursion, you can:

• Take the train in and follow my steps above, although you likely won't have enough time to see all the stops on my walk
• Hire a car and driver to meet you at the port and take you into Rome, give you the private tour, and then take you back to the ship
• Take a small group bus tour from the port, see the highlights and be brought back to the port on the same bus.

Visit my Civitavecchia to Rome page for more.

Remember to make sure to specify if you want to include visiting the Vatican Museums  (where the Sistine Chapel is) as this will take up half your day!

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Top attractions and tours

• Colosseum - Don't miss visiting Rome's most iconic monument
• Vatican Museums - This is where the Sistine Chapel is
• Pantheon - Book ahead and skip the line
• Galleria Borghese - You'll need to book ahead for one of Rome's best museums
• Castel Sant'Angelo - See Rome's history through its architecture
• Rome City Pass - A great way to make your Rome visits easier

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One Day In Rome: 8 Sample Itineraries

Endlessly inspiring and ethereal, Rome is the magical mecca of carbs and ancient architecture. It’s a grand showcase of Western civilization, full of Imperial pomp and circumstance.

Rome has spent several milennia accumulating layers of beauty, history, and romance — just waiting for its admirers to arrive.

Ideally, you should visit Rome for a full week. Still, I know that’s not always possible, and you might only have a short amount of time to see Rome.

If that’s the case, know that you won’t be able to see everything in Rome in one day and don’t try.

Instead, structure a visit to Rome based on your own individual passions and interests. With my themed one day in Rome itineraries, you can pick one part of Rome that calls to you and explore it well.

You can choose what you personally want to see with only 1 day in Rome — imperial ruins, historic attractions, opulent palaces, hidden gems, Vatican City masterpieces, etc. The options are nearly endless.

For organizational purposes, I’ve broken down my best one day in Rome itineraries into the following categories:

• 1 Day in Imperial Rome Itinerary
• 1 Day in Central Rome Itinerary
• 1 Day in Vatican City Itinerary
• 1 Day in Rome for Pilgrims
• 1 Day in Rome for Art Lovers
• 1 Day in Off the Beaten Path Rome
• 1 Day for Palace Lovers
• 1 Day in Rome “Gotta Do It All”

If you’ve already spent time in Rome before, these one day itineraries will give you ideas for the next time you visit Rome.

Although one day isn’t much time, Rome is still one of the most exciting days Europe has to offer. With some advance planning and ambition, you can definitely have a bucket list adventure in Rome.

To prepare for your Rome visit, you might enjoy reading these articles, for background information:

• R ise and Fall of the Roman Empire
• H istory of the Roman Emperors
• 50+ Facts About Rome

Sample One Day In Rome Itineraries

Here are my specialized itineraries for spending one perfect day in Rome.

1. One Day In Rome Itinerary: Imperial Sites

The Imperial sites are synonymous with Rome. You can easily spend day 1 day in Rome touring these iconic attractions. If you’re a history buff, this is the tour you should pick among my 1 day in Rome itineraries.

I never tire of the imperial monuments, no matter how many times I’ve visited Rome. These sites can be visited with one ticket and are Rome’s biggest draw.

With only one day in Rome, you should probably book a guided tour to see the big three — Colosseum + Roman Forum + Palatine Hill. These tours usually last 2-3 hours.

Here are some tour options you can choose from. They all vary slightly in duration and what you see. So pick one that best suits your sightseeing agenda.

• skip the line entry tickets to all 3 sites
• tickets + a 2 hour guided tour for all 3 sites
• 3 hour guided tour and entry to all 3 sites
• tickets & tour of all 3 sites + underground Colosseum access
• 4 hour private day tour of Ancient Rome
• skip the line private guided tour with an art historian

Via dei Fori Imperiali

Start your one day in Rome with a stroll down Via Dei Fori Imperiali, which is effectively an open air museum. It’s a large modern road that connects the Piazza Venezia with the Colosseum, crossing the Roman Forum in the process.

During your stroll, you’ll pass the Forum of Trajan, the Markets of Trajan, the Forum of Augustus, the Forum of Nerva, and other archaeological excavations in progress.

There are four statues of emperors with the ubiquitous Latin phrase SPQR, Senātus Populusque Rōmānus. The phrase translates to “The Roman Senate and People.”

This street can be crowded and full of trinket sellers. But it’s a great place to photograph the Colosseum, which is your next destination.

At the end of the Via Dei Fori Imperiali, you’ll arrive at the Colosseum. You need a pre-booked time slot reservation to see the most visited landmark in Italy . The Colosseum is the largest amphitheater of the ancient world. It’s the very symbol of the Roman Empire.

The word “Colosseum” is only a nickname. The formal name of this doughty edifice is the Flavian Amphitheater. Built by the Flavian emperors in the 1st century, the Colosseum has stood in Rome for almost 2,000 years.

Despite the ravages of time, the Colosseum is an incredibly well-preserved piece of Rome’s fascinating history and its brilliant engineering prowess.

The Colosseum embodies Ancient Rome, especially its lust for violence and entertainment. The gladiatorial games that took place in the Colosseum were a widely popular spectator sport.

As I mentioned in my list of imperial tours above, you can also book a tour that includes a visit to the “Hypogeum” or the Colosseum Underground , where the gladiators prepared for battle. For a different experience, you can also book a nighttime tour of the Colosseum .

Here’s my complete guide to visiting the Colosseum . It covers you everything you need to know to plan your Colosseum visit and purchase tickets.

I give you an overview of the remarkable history and construction of the Colosseum, the gladiatorial games that once entertained rabid Romans, and tell you everything you need to see inside the Colosseum.

Roman Forum

After visiting the Colosseum, head over to the Roman Forum . It’s right next door.

In this blissfully evocative heap of ruins, you’ll step back in time to the days of Julius Caesar, Augustus, Titus, and Constantine. You’ll weave your way past the ruins of Imperial Rome and through the tales, legends, and events of its great history.

The Roman Forum was the nerve center of Ancient Rome. It was the central civic space — the political, commercial, cultural, and religious center of Rome. It’s where Ancient Rome had its most important temples, churches, and halls of justice.

The Forum was the scene of political upheavals, funerals, and triumphant parades. Before the Colosseum was built, it even hosted gladiatorial battles. Roman citizens thought it was the center of the entire world.

Palatine Hill

The next stop on your 1 day in Imperial Rome itinerary is Palatine Hill . This is the most famous of Rome’s seven hills.

It’s Rome’s most ancient area, with a history that pre-dates Rome itself. Palatine Hill overlooks the Roman Forum to one side and Circus Maximus to the other. 

The romantically dilapidated ruins you see atop the hill are the ruins of Domitian’s Palace. But there are so many more delights, even some active archaeological sites and secret underground places to explore.

Palatine Hill is home to many “new”  S.U.P.E.R. Pass  sites in Rome, like Domus Tiberiana and the House of Augustus . Some only recently opened after decades of excavation. New discoveries are made all the time.

Largo di Torre Argentina

When you’re done with the big three imperial sites, walk to the site of Julius Caesar’s assassination. The dictator was killed by a conspiracy of senators on the Ides of March in 44 B.C. at the Largo di Torre Argentina.

The senators feared Caesar would crown himself king. The assassination was one of the most pivotal moments of the Roman Republic.

What the assassins didn’t predict is that Caesar’s death would make him a martyr. It incited civil wars that led to the downfall of the republic and the rise of the  Roman Empire .

After a restoration funded by the fashion house Bulgari, the ruins of the Largo opened to the public in 2023. You can visit four Republican era pagan temples and the ruins of the Theater of Pompey via walkways at the site.

The theater was built in 55 B.C. by the great military general Pompey the Great. The curia (meeting house) of the theater was where the Roman senators met after they had outgrown the senate house in the Roman Forum. 

There’s also a fenced off feral Cat Sanctuary onsite. It’s protected and funded by an animal protection organization.

>>> Click here to pre-book a ticket

In the evening of your 1 day in Rome itinerary, take a stroll through picturesque Central Rome . The streets of central Rome are safe and inviting for a walk at dusk. There’s no better way to feel the city’s pulse.

Centro storico is home to some of Rome’s top attractions. For Imperial ruin lusters, the one attraction you can’t miss is the magnificent Pantheon. It’s open until 7:15 pm.

Without a doubt, the Pantheon is the most famous and best preserved monument from ancient Rome. It’s the only piece of Imperial architecture left intact. 

The Pantheon was a temple dedicated to all Roman deities. The Pantheon you see today was built by Emperor Hadrian . It likely served as a dynastic sanctuary, an assembly hall where the public could gather. Hadrian would have “held court” on a throne to oversee the public meetings.

Here’s my complete guide to the Pantheon . To see this ancient wonder, you’ll need to b ook a skip the line ticket or else wait in a long queue. You can also book a guide d tour of the Pantheon.

2. One Day Rome Itinerary: Centro Storico

If you’ve done the Imperial tour previously, perhaps you’d like to spend your 1 day in Rome exploring Central Rome. The Centro Storico is home to some of Rome’s most beloved sites and attractions.

Centro Storico  is the most picturesque part of Rome. It’s a tangle of cobbled alleyways, Renaissance and Baroque monuments, ancient ruins, and pretty piazzas. This is the historic Rome that so many visitors come to see. 

I’ve written a 1 day self-guided walking tour of Central Rome , so won’t repeat myself here. You can also book a guided 2.5 hour walking tour of central Rome .

My walking tour starts at the Vittorio Emmanuel II Monument in Piazza Venezia and ends at Piazza del Popolo. You can easily reverse the order and start at the Piazza del Popolo, if that’s closer to where you’re staying.

Along the way, you’ll see some of the most famous places in Rome. My guide takes you to 20 of the top attractions in Central Rome. It will keep you busy from the early morning to late evening.

3. One Day In Rome Itinerary: Vatican City

Have you visited the Vatican yet? You can easily spend an entire day in Rome just visiting Vatican City, a tiny country inside Rome. Even if you’re not religious, the Vatican is still a fascinating place with some of the best art on the planet.

The top must visit attractions in Vatican City are the Vatican Museums , St. Peter’s Square, St. Peter’s Basilica, and Castle Sant’Angelo. The Vatican Museums house 26 museums in total.

You could spend hours (or days!) admiring the Vatican Pinacotec a , Raphael Rooms , and Michelangelo’s frescos in the Sistine Chapel . Plus, there are plenty of hidden gems in the Vatican .

Since you’re only in Rome for 1 day, it may be best to book a guided tour to get through the place efficiently, especially if you’re a first timer. It’s just so massive.

Here are your Vatican tour options. You can pick a tour tailored to your own interests and museum going tastes. 

• a  2. 5 hour overview on a skip the line small group guided tour
• a  3 hour no  w ait tour that also includes the Raphael Rooms
• a  3.5 hour tour Vatican visit with a guided tour of St. Peter’s Basilica
• a  3 hour Friday night tour of the Vatican
• a  Vatican tour that includes a climb of the dome of St. Peter’s Basilica
• a  2-3 hour private tour of the Vatican

If you’re taking a guided tour, you’ll access  St. Peter’s Basilica  from the back left corner of the Sistine Chapel. Once inside the basilica, you cannot re-enter the Vatican Museums.

When you’re done in the museums, head to the Bernini-designed St. Peter’s Square and St. Peter’s Basilica.

St. Peter’s Basilica is the world’s most famous church. Designed by Bramante, Raphael, and Michelangelo, it’s a true Renaissance masterpiece.

The basilica may be the most ornate space you’ve ever stepped foot inside. It’s filled with an intense visual array of precious treasures and grandiose decoration.

St. Peter’s was completed after 120+ years of construction, the reign of 18 different popes, incalculable cost, and the direction of 12 different architects. Measuring more than two football fields in length, it’s by far the largest church in Christendom.

Climbing up to the dome is a must do!

In Vatican City, you can also visit Castle Sant’Angelo . The fortress-like castle is a 2,000 year old landmark in Rome. It’s the former tomb of Emperor Hadrian and decorated in papal splendor. 

The museum is stuffed with centuries of goodies most suitable for history buffs. It’s an eclectic collection — paintings, sculpture, military memorabilia, popes’ apartments, and a wonderful viewing terrace. To me, the frescoed ceilings and panoramic view from the top were the museum’s best features.

I’ve written a 1 day itinerary for Vatican City . It gives you an efficient hour by hour guide for visiting.

You’ll find useful tips for each Vatican attraction, a description of what to see at each attraction, and a primer on how to budget your time with only 1 day. I also give you suggestions on where to eat lunch and dinner.

Be forewarned, it’s difficult to spend an entire day in Vatican City without burnout or a dose of museum fatigue. The papacy is over 2,000 years old. Its haul of fine art masterpieces is staggering.

4. One Day In Rome Itinerary For Pilgrims

Rome is an important place of pilgrimage, particularly for Roman Catholics. The Vatican is the home of the Pope, the spiritual head of the Roman Catholic Church. The tombs of the apostles are also in Rome’s churches.

There are 4 papal basilicas in Rome. St. Peter’s Basilica is the only one in Vatican City. The other 3 are in Rome, receiving extraterritorial status under the Lateran Treaty. Each basilica has a set of Holy Doors that are opened for each Jubilee Year. 

Altogether, there are 7 churches in Rome that are considered official pilgrim’s churches . But they’re spread out and you can’t do them all in one day in Rome. So, I’ve picked the 4 best churches that you can reasonably visit in 1 day in Rome, by taxi and by foot.

READ : Guide To Rome’s most Beautiful Churches

St. Peter’s Basilica

Begin your 1 day in pilgrim’s Rome at St. Peter’s Basilica . I’ve described the church above, so won’t repeat myself here. The basilica is the #1 pilgrimage destination in Rome.

Pilgrims come in the hope of seeing or hearing the Pope. The Pope speaks publicly on Wednesdays in Saint Peter’s Square and leads masses during the year.

Pilgrims can also visit what they believe to be the tomb of Saint Peter. It’s in the Vatican Necropolis under the basilica.

Here’s my complete  guide to St. Peter’s Basilica . You can take a  guided tour  of St. Peters. You can also visit the  underground grottos on a guided tour .

Santa Maria Maggiore

From St. Peter’s, taxi over to the Monti area of Rome to visit the magnificent Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore . This UNESCO-listed basilica dates to the 5th century.

Santa Maria Maggiore is one of four papal basilicas in Rome and retains its original shape (with some embellishments).

The basilica was the scene of a miraculous snowfall in the middle of August in the 4th century, which is celebrated annually in a digitized show.

The basilica’s other claim to fame is a perfectly preserved Byzantine interior. Beautiful 5th century mosaics decorate both sides of the nave. 13th century mosaics are in the apse.

The basilica also has a stunning coffered ceiling, sculpted by Giuliano da Sangallo in 1450. It’s covered in gold, brought back by Columbus. And there’s a famed relic, five pieces of Jesus’ manger crib downstairs in the  Confessio .

The church is renowned for its magnificent twin chapels, the Sistine Chapel and the Borghese Chapel. The Sistine Chapel has beautiful frescoes, a golden altar, a Bernini statue, and the tomb of Pope Sistus V.

The Borghese Chapel is lavishly decorated and frescoed. It holds one of Rome’s most famous icons, a painting of the  Virgin and Child  allegedly by Saint Luke, the first Christian painter.

Bernini fans can pay homage to him here, as his tomb is in the church. If you take a guided tour, you’ll get to see a secret spiral staircase designed by Bernini himself. The staircase is an architectural curiosity because there’s no central supporting rail.

Click here to book a guided tour of Santa Maria Maggiore.

Basilica of San Clemente

It’s about a 15 minute walk from Santa Maria Maggiore to your next destination, the Basilica of San Clemente .

Along the way, you should pop into the Church of St. Peter in Chains. There, you can see one of Michelangelo’s most famous sculptures, Moses . It was part of his tomb for Pope Julius II.

The Basilica di San Clemente is an 11th century church, built atop a 4th century church, which was built atop an ancient Imperial residence. It’s a collage of different architectural styles.

Inside, you’ll see beautifully frescoed ceilings and original gold mosaics in the apse. But the real treasures lie beneath the inlaid marble floors. San Clemente is one of Rome’s best underground archaeological sites.

Underground, you’ll find layers of Christian history. There are early Christian wall mosaics, a 3rd century pagan temple, a 1st century residence, a secret Mithraic worship site, and the Cloaca Maxima (the sewer system of ancient Rome).

In the apse mosaic, Jesus hangs in the center on a cross studded with twelve doves, symbolizing the apostles. At the base, twelve sheep walk from miniature depictions of the walled cities of Jerusalem and Bethlehem.

You can book a  1 hour small group tour  or a a  2.5 hour private tour .

St. John of Lateran & The Holy Stairs

It’s a 12 minute walk from San Clemente to your last stop of the day, the Basilica of St. John of Lateran . The Lateran is one of the four major basilicas under the jurisdiction of the pope. Until 1870, all the popes were crowned here. The church houses the tombs of six popes.

The Lateran was the first church established by the Emperor Constantine, who was the first Roman emperor to adopt Christianity as the state religion. Legend holds that Constantine dug the foundation with his bare hands.

A fire destroyed the basilica in 1308. But it was rebuilt by Pope Urban V. The architect Borromini gave the interior a Baroque facelift in the 17th century.

The rather bombastic facade was designed by Alessandro Galilei. It’s made entirely of travertine. On the top are 15 enormous statues of Jesus, saints, and the doctors of the church, created by the best sculptors of the era. In the vestibule is a massive statue of Constantine.

The nave was once a “forest of columns.” Fearing the roof would collapse, Borromini created piers instead. In each pier is a niche, holding sculptures of the apostles.

The floor is beautiful too. It’s from the 15th century, made of porphyry, serpentine, and granite. There’s also a golden apse mosaic, by Jacobi Torriti, from the 13th century.

The high altar were once used by Saint Peter himself. The baldachin has a 14th century gold canopy with the busts of Paul and Peter. It’s said that the heads of the apostles were actually once with it.

It’s worth it to pay a bit extra to see the 13th century cloister, created by the Cosmati Vassalletti brothers. The cloister has unique twisting double columns.

In the cloister you’ll find a beautiful funerary monument by Arnolfo di Cambio and the marble throne once used to crown popes.

Directly across the street from the basilica is another important stop for pilgrims — the Holy Stairs and Sandra Sanctorum.

These stairs (with just 28 steps) are renowned because Jesus allegedly climbed them during his passion. They were reputed to be the marble steps of the house of Pontius Pilate. They were brought back to Rome by Constantine’s mother, Helena.

At the top of the stairs is the Sancta Sanctorum. It was once the pope’s private and is decorated with gorgeous frescos.

>>> Click here to buy a ticket to the Lateran complex

5. One Day in Rome Itinerary For Art Lovers

Are you an art lover looking for a 1 day in Rome itinerary? If so, Rome is overflowing with amazing museums that you’ll fall in love with. You definitely can’t even scratch the surface with just one day in Rome.

But I will recommend 3 of the best museums in Rome to occupy your day. In the morning, head to the Capitoline Museums and the Borghese Gallery. Grab lunch and then head to the Vatican Museums for the afternoon.

If you’ve already visited the Vatican Museums, you can substitute the Palazzo Massimo (ancient sculpture and frescos), the Villa Giulia (Etruscan art), or MAXXI (modern art).

The museums are spread out. The Capitoline Museums are in Central Rome.

But you’ll have to take taxis to get to the Borghese Gallery and the Vatican Museums. Or have 40-45 minute walks. For this 1 day in Rome itinerary, I’d use the taxis to save precious time.

Capitoline Museums

Start your art-filled day in Rome at the Capitoline Museums . The museums sit atop a beautiful square, the Piazza dei Campidoglio on Capitoline Hill.

In the 16th century, Michelangelo re-designed the square, transforming it from pagan to papal. In the center is one of the world’s largest equestrian statues of Marcus Aurelius (the original is inside).

The Capitoline Museums are Rome’s oldest museum. The museums provide a unique up close look at Rome’s ancient imperial history. The Capitoline’s stash of ancient art and artifacts is unparalleled, albeit somewhat disorganized.

It’s housed in two buildings, the Palazzo dei Conservatori and the Palazzo Nuovo. They’re connected by an underground passageway, called the Underground Galleria Lapidaria, lined with evocative funereal steles.

Inside, you’ll find some of the world’s most famous ancient sculptures —  Spinario ,  Bust of Commodus ,  Capitoline She Wolf ,  Medusa , and  Dying Gaul .

Click here for a skip the line small group guided tour of the magnificent Capitoilne museums.

Borghese Gallery

Next up is the world renowned Borghese Gallery in northern Rome. You’ll need to pre-book time slot tickets well in advance.

Ah, this is one of the best small museums in the world ! The Borghese Gallery houses one of the world’s most jaw dropping art collections in a chic and luxurious garden villa.

In the 17th century, Cardinal Scipione Borghese meticulously assembled the densely packed collection. It’s rich in ancient Roman, Renaissance, and Baroque art. It boasts major works by art superstars — Bernini, Titian, Caravaggio, Raphael, Rubens, and Canova.

In particular, the cardinal commissioned  Gian Lorenzo Bernini  — the Baroque “master of marble” — to create a series of sculptures that would become the pièce de résistance of his gilded sanctuary. 

Bernini carved intensely charged bodies of mythological gods and heroes from massive slabs of marble. The most famous Borghese pieces are  David ,  Apollo and Daphne , and  The Rape of Persephone .

Be sure to linger in the  Caravaggio  Room, where you’ll find six of his paintings.This is the largest collection of Caravaggio in the world.

Click here to pre-purchase a Borghese Gallery ticket. You can also book a private tour of the museum, which is definitely worth the splurge.

After you’re done admiring the art, take a stroll in the Borghese gardens. This vast and verdant area is Rome’s equivalent to Central Park. On the grounds, you’ll also find the Villa Giulia, which houses Rome’s National Etruscan Museum .

Spend an hour there before taxing to the Vatican Museums.

Vatican Museums

The  Vatican Museums  are the public art and sculpture museums in the  Vatican City  complex. They’re housed in former wings of the Vatican Palace. Much of the work was collected by Pope Julius II, the imperious “warrior” pope who left a staggering legacy.

A museum path takes you through the long corridors and wings of the Vatican Museums.

Most of the fine art, as opposed to decorative art, is in the  Vatican Pinacoteca  (the painting gallery), the Pio-Clementino Museum (the sculpture gallery), the Gallery of the Candelabra (more sculpture), the  Raphael Rooms , the Borgia Apartments, and the Sistine Chapel.

At the end of your long march down the museum path, you’ll arrive at the  Sistine Chapel , the highlight of any Vatican visit. In 1508, Pope Julius II summoned Michelangelo from Florence to paint the ceiling of his private chapel.

Michelangelo spent 4 years toiling away on the 9 ceiling panels. They depict scenes from Genesis and seem to open up the chapel to heaven. In 1534, he returned to paint The Last Judgment on the altar wall.

Artists came to study Michelangelo’s brilliant work. He directly influenced artists such as Andrea del Sarto, Correggio, Tintoretto, Annibale Carracci, Paolo Veronese, and El Greco.

Click here to pre-purchase a Vatican ticket, which is essential to skip what will otherwise be a long line. I also listed all the possible tours above.

6. One Day In Off The Beaten Path Rome

Are you a repeat visitor to Rome looking for some 1 day in Rome itineraries? If so, perhaps you’d like to get off the beaten path in Rome and do some more unusual things.

Rome is overflowing with hidden gems that are off the typical tourist path. You’ll have plenty of options.

I’ve written a guide to Rome’s hidden gems . But I’ll just go over 4 of my favorite offbeat attractions for you to consider. In this 1 day in Rome itinerary, you begin on Palatine Hill, head to Piazza Venezia, and end in Trastevere.

House of Augustus

Start your day at the House of Augustus on Palatine Hill. You can book a guided tour to get the full scoop.

This was the primary home of Rome’s first emperor Augustus. It stands as a symbol of the transition of Rome from a republic to an imperial empire.

The site was only discovered in the 1950s. It opened in 2014 after decades of excavation. The house comprises two levels. It was arranged around two courtyards, linked by an open promenade.

The highlight of the House of Augustus is some of the best preserved Roman walls on the planet. They’re decorated with vibrant 2,000 year old frescos.

Most of the frescos are executed in the Second Pompeian Style, called the “Architectural Style.” It began in Pompeii, became the fashion, and was then adopted by Augustus.

By far the most elegant room is the Emperor’s Study, where Augustus burned the midnight oil.

Protected behind glass, the walls are beautifully decorated with stylized winged obelisks, gryphons, and floral elements. The colors are bold — green, black, green, and yellow.

Right next to the House of Augustus are the ruins of the “Hut of Romulus.” This may be the spot where Romulus, the founder of Rome, lived in the 8th century BC. Though most historians believe Romulus to be a purely legendary character. 

Palatine Museum

Next pop into the delightful  Palatine Museum on Palatine Hill. It houses a treasure trove of ancient Roman ruins and artifacts discovered during excavations on Palatine Hill.

The works come from emperors’ palaces and aristocrats’ homes. You’ll find frescos, sculptures, mosaics, and other objects.

One of my favorite pieces was a rare bust of Emperor Nero, one of the most notorious Roman emperors . All likenesses of Nero were destroyed when the senate damned his memory. This bust is one of the few surviving relics of his time.

You’ll also find mosaics and exquisite paintings from Nero’s first palace, Domus Transitoria. And an interesting reconstruction of the Hut of Romulus that I mentioned above.

Palazzo Doria Pamphilj

When you’re done on Palatine Hill, stroll down the Via dei Fori Imperiali toward Piazza Venezia. The Palazzo Doria Pamphilj is right off the piazza on Via del Corso.

The museum is simply a joy to visit. It’s a heady blend of yesteryear  in situ  art and magnificent architecture, housed in a lavish 17th century Roman-Rococo palace.

The art collection was meticulously assembled and is still owned by a powerful Italian family, the Doria Pamphilj (pronounced Pom-fee-lee).

The Doria Pamphilj boasts over 650 works spanning the 15th to the 18th century, including pieces by Velazquez, Raphael ,  Bernini ,  Caravaggio , Titian, Carracci, and Bruegel.

The best works are stashed in the Aldobrandini Gallery and the Aldobrandini Hall.

The gallery’s emblematic painting is Diego Velazquez’s  Portrait of Innocent X , which has a dedicated room. The museum also has a glittering Hall of Mirrors, reminiscent of the  Palace of Versailles . Click here to pre-book a ticket.

If you have time before heading to your next stop, take a moment to inspect the Vittorio Emanuel II Monument in Piazza Venezia. In the back is an elevator that takes you to a terrace where you’ll have spectacular views of Rome.

Villa Farnesina

For your last stop on the 1 day hidden gems tour of Rome, head to Rome’s Trastevere neighborhood across the Tiber River to visit Villa Farnesina . It’s a 25 minute walk from the Palazzo Doria Pamphilj.

Designed by artist-architect Baldasarre Perruzi, the museum is a magnificent off the beaten path museum. It’s home to torrid love stories and secret Raphael paintings.

Between 1506-11, the wealthy banker Agostino Chigi from Siena built Villa Farnesina, then titled Villa Chigi. Chigi wanted a show-offy party pad to entertain Roman VIPs. He created a beautiful space, a Roman pleasure garden. It was bright, airy, and infused with Renaissance beauty.

The villa is decorated with racy mythological frescos by Renaissance painters Raphael, Baldassarre Peruzzi, and Sebastian del Piombo. Check out the Loggia of Cupid and Psyche, the Hall of Galatea, and the Room of the Perspectives.

The highlight is the Loggia of Cupid and Psyche, painted by Raphael and his workshop. The beautiful and animated frescos will take your breath away. Cavorting gods and goddesses cover every inch of the walls. The theme is “love conquers all.”

In the next room, the Hall of Galatea, you’ll find Raphael’s famous  Triumph of Galatea . It was inspired by the Greek myth of the ill-fated lovers Acis and Galatea. Raphael captures the moment of Galatea apotheosis, when she is about to become divine.

Here’s my complete  guide to visiting the Villa Farnesina . Click  here  for a guided tour of the lovely villa. Click  here  for a guided walking tour of the villa and the Trastevere neighborhood.

Since you’re in Trastevere, this is a great place to have dinner. Settle in for some wine at Enoteca Ferrara , which has a huge wine list. You can eat here too or try  Ombre Rosse .

7. One Day In Rome Itinerary: Palaces

Are you addicted to palaces? Or just need a dash of royalty in your life? Rome fits the bill. The city’s elegant palazzi are art-filled oases minus the crowds.

Rome’s palace-museums are not on the typical tourist radar. You may have an aristocratic palace all to yourself.

These rarely visited Roman palazzos hide some of Rome’s unmissable masterpieces. The art is set amid dazzling rooms designed and decorated by Rome’s rich and famous. These palace museums could easily take up 1 day in Rome or more.

I’ve written a guide to Rome’s palace museums . I mentioned my favorite one above, the Palazzo Doria Pamphilj. So start your day there. Then, I recommend 3 other palaces to fill up your 1 day in Rome palace itinerary.

Palazzo Spada: Borromini Perspective Gallery

Palazzo Spada is in Central Rome. It’s about a 15 minute walk from Palazzo Doria Pamphilj.

The Renaissance palace is named after Cardinal Bernardino Spada. The cardinal purchased the palace in 1632. He hired famed architect Francesco Borromini to transform the building to beautiful effect.

There are three reasons to put the Palazzo Spada on your itinerary — the beautiful palace itself, the Borromini Perspective Gallery, and the precious collection of  Artemisia Gentileschi  and other Baroque paintings in the Galleria Spada.

The Borromini Gallery is a tromp l’ceil colonnade. Cardinal Spada was fascinated with perspective tricks that evoked unlimited and unreal spaces. In 1652, he hired Borromini to create his very own optical illusion, an architectural folly of sorts.

>>> Click here to book a ticket to Galleria Spada

Palazzo Massimo alle Terme: Ancient Roman Frescos

Palazzo Massimo is the best archaeological museum in Rome. It’s a 25 minute walk from Palazzo Spada.

The off the radar museum is one of Rome’s newer museum spaces, one of the five branches of the National Roman Museum. It’s housed in a magnificently restored building bursting with a wealth of fine sculptures, mosaics, and frescos.

Three galleries on the ground floor are dedicated to busts and statuary from the last years of the Roman Republic. The two most famous statues are of the  Emperor Augustus  and  The Boxer.

The Augustus statue is a beautiful, and incredibly detailed, statue of the Roman emperor. The  Boxer  was discovered on Quirinal Hill of Rome in 1885, near the ancient Baths of Constantine.

READ :  Rome’s Best Ancient Ruins and Archaeological Sites

The museum’s real treat is a series of gorgeous domestic wall paintings in Room II on the second floor.

That room houses the exquisite garden frescos that were restored and removed from the House of Livia on  Palatine Hill . Livia was the wife of Emperor Augustus.

Palazzo Barberini: Baroque Masterpieces

Palazzo Barberini is just a 10 minute walk from Palazzo Massimo. It houses one of Rome’s seriously underrated museums, the Galleria Nazionale d’Arte Antica. It’s an art lover’s art gallery. 

Recent restorations give the museum an unapologetically grand wow factor. The museum holds some of Europe’s classic paintings by the great masters.

The Barberini Palace is 12,000 square meters and has 187 rooms. It has beautiful staircases by architects Borromini and Bernini. 

The palace is home to one of Raphael’s most famous paintings,  La Fornarina . It’s a painting of the “baker’s daughter.” Legend holds that Raphael fell in love with her while fresco painting in the  Villa Farnesina .

Other master works include Caravaggio’s  Narcissus  and  Judith and Holofernes , Holbein’s  Henry VIII , and the magnificent ceiling fresco by Pietro da Cortona.

Cortona’s  Triumph of Divine Providence  is located in the largest and most important hall of Palazzo Barberini. There’s 400 square meters of decorated fresco. 

The elaborate project was commissioned by Pope Urban VIII (Maffeo Barberini) in 1632, and finished by Cortona in 1639. Recliners allow you to lie back and take in the dramatic scene.

Click  here  for a skip the line entrance ticket. Click  here  for a 2 hour guided tour of the museum or  here  for a private tour.

8. One Day In Rome: Gotta Do It All

You can’t see everything in Rome in 1 day. But you can sure try to see the main highlights. With some energy and pre-planning, you can have a go at it, get a taste of Rome, and then come back for more.

Here’s how to conquer Rome in one day. It’s a frantic itinerary. You’ll need pre-purchased timed entry tickets and tours to the Colosseum and the Vatican Museums. I gave you many options above.

Start at the Colosseum, which I’ve described above. Then, explore the Roman Forum with an audio guide. You’ll may have to skip Palatine Hill on this “gotta do it all” itinerary because there simply isn’t time.

After exploring the Roman Forum, head over to the temple-turned-church Pantheon. And take a peak at Piazza Navona, the most iconic square in Rome. Get a lunch to go and munch on it while admiring the gorgeous Bernini fountains in the piazza.

Then, taxi over to Vatican City. Follow my guide to visiting the Vatican set forth above.

Spend at least a half hour in St. Peter’s Basilica. Climb to the top of the St. Peter’s dome for an unforgettable view over St Peter’s Square near sunset. It closes at 6:00 pm.

Then, taxi back to the Campo dei Fiori or Trastevere area to find dinner.

Where To Stay In Rome

If you’re a first timer in Rome, you may want to stay in the historic center around the Pantheon or Piazza Navona. Some good options are the  Liberty Boutique Hotel , the  Hotel Maalat ,  Deco Roma , or  Hotel Hassler Roma .

If you want to stay near the Imperial ruins,  Palazzo Manfredi  (Colosseum views) and the  Inn at The Roman Forum  are good choices.

If you want to stay in the quieter Monti area, which makes a great base, the  Palazzo Manfred i , Villa Spalletti Trivelli   (Roman townhouse), and  Roma Luxus  (former 18th century palace) are fantastic choices.

One of my personal favorites is the  Rome Cavalieri , which has its own art collection that you can tour with an art historian for free as a guest. You will also love the  J.K. Place Roma , a simply gorgeous boutique hotel.

I hope you’ve enjoyed my themed one day in Rome itineraries. You may enjoy these other Rome and Italy travel guides:

• 3 day itinerary for Rome
• 5 day itinerary for Rome
• 10 Day itinerary for Italy’s Classic Cities
• 11 ways to spend 1 week in Italy
• 10 day itinerary from Milan to Rome
• 1 week itinerary from Venice to Milan
• 30 beautiful towns in Italy
• 100+ Italy bucket list experiences
• Tips for visiting Italy
• Historic landmarks in Italy

If you need one day in Rome itineraries, pin it for later.

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Last Updated on January 5, 2024 by Leslie Livingston

Best of Rome Walking Tour with Quick Access Roman Forum & Palatine Hill

• Enjoy a complete walking tour of the historic heart of Rome. Stop at Piazza Navona, Pantheon, and more to discover stories most visitors won’t hear.
• See where Emperor Julius Caesar famously met his untimely demise on the Ides of March.
• Get ahead of the crowds at the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill for guided tours of both, providing unrivaled insight into these iconic ancient sites.
• Discover the Domus Tiberiana on Palatine Hill to see the lavish imperial palace Ancient Rome's Emperors called home.
• Follow an expertly crafted itinerary, starting first thing in the morning to beat the crowds for a more relaxing visit.

Tour description

Follow in the footsteps of emperors on the best of rome walking tour..

This Best of Rome Walking Tour takes you on a fascinating journey through Ancient Rome with a knowledgeable guide whose stories of both innovative and brutal emperors will bring each stop to life. From the historic center to the Roman Forum, you'll get to the heart of Rome and see the most important monuments that gave rise to a global empire.

Your tour begins at Piazza Navona, considered today to be Rome's most beautiful plaza. Your guide will reveal the surprising connection this square has to Ancient Rome, buried over time as new civilizations rose and fell. After that, you’ll visit the Pantheon—completed during the reign of Emperor Hadrian—to see the astonishing 2,000-year old dome that remains the world's largest unsupported dome to this day.

After a brief pause to use the restroom or sip a coffee (price not included in tour), the next stop on your Best of Rome Walking Tour is where Emperor Julius Caesar met his untimely demise on the Ides of March. Nestled in the middle of a bustling plaza, you'd probably never guess that this is where one of the most famous scenes of Ancient Rome played out. Thanks to your expert local guide, you don't have to worry about missing a thing.

Step into life in Ancient Rome at the Forum to wrap up your Best of Rome Walking Tour.

From there, you’ll pass other landmarks like Piazza Venezia and Piazza del Campidoglio—the latter designed by Michelangelo himself—on your way to the Roman Forum where you’ll bypass the crowds and head straight in for a complete guided visit. As you explore the sprawling archeological site, your guide will share a plethora of stories, facts, myths and legends from over 2,000 years of history.

You'll visit restricted areas, including Palatine Hill's newest monument, the Domus Tiberiana—the first imperial palace recently restored and reopened in Fall 2023. Renovated by several emperors including Domitian and Hadrian, the palace stretched more than nine acres! The tour continues to the enchanting Palatine Hill, where according to Roman mythology, the story of Rome began with the birth of Romulus and Remus.

Your tour concludes outside of Ancient Rome's most emblematic monuments, the Colosseum, where many a Roman emperor attended its games. Your guide will also point out the nearby Arch of Constantine, built in 315 to celebrate the victory of Emperor Constantine over Maxentius.

This unforgettable Best of Rome experience combines a leisurely walking tour of Rome’s Centro Storico with the main highlights of the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill. It’s an excellent way to discover Ancient Rome and get to know its many colorful characters.

Sites visited

Verified guest reviews, feb 08, 2024.

Julietta was amazing

Oct 23, 2023

This was awesome

Oct 19, 2023

Our tour guide was Anna, she was while versed and very passionate about the sites. Anna was very educated and very understandably with her answers, we had a police road block that we could not enter to go to the pizza place for the tour she quickly decided to change it to a different pizza place on our tour, she was very knowledgeable of the area and didn't skip a beat on the tour. She was so gracious thru out the tour. I feel we got more information about all the sites then most tour guides would of known. She even made sure all of us site seekers made it back to our destinations with directions because she was over all very knowledgeable of the area. Anna diffently has a passion and love for what she does. We are very impressed with the quality of our head sets. I would diffently suggest if you have never been to Rome book the Walks Tours and hopefully your lucky enough to get Anna like we where. Wear comfy shoes and bring an empty water bottle for the watering laces thru out your tour because the water is safe to drink. And please don't forget to tip your tour guide. Debbie and Lee from Pittsburgh Pennsylvania USA P.S. we have 2 more tours with Walks Tours, can't wait!!

Oct 07, 2023

This is a great tour thru the Heart of Rome . It is a lot of walking , but very informative and you see a bunch of sites and the guide was wonderful. Highly recommend! ???

Oct 04, 2023

Great guide, but maybe a little too much information overload. Hard to absorb it all. But very knowledgeable

Know before you book

Similar tours, roman icons: castel sant'angelo to pantheon tour with panoramic view, welcome to rome: city stroll with gelato tasting, rome in a day tour: including vatican, colosseum & historic center.

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Italy , One Day in , Rome · July 11, 2015

One day in Rome: walking map with all the highlights

Spending only one day in Rome is definitely a challenge! What top attractions should you visit? How do you choose? I’m sure many people have asked these questions already. People on a cruise often stop by for just one day, or people that are staying at a B&B in the neighbourhood.

First of all you just have to accept that you won’t be able to see and do everything Rome has to offer. There are so many attractions, good restaurants, beautiful squares and fountains, gelateria, parks and monuments that doing everything in one day is just impossible! So my advice is skip the museums and go for a walk that takes you to as many attractions as possible. See it as a day of exploration to discover what you like and to get an idea what this city is about, so you know what to do when you come back for a longer stay (which you absolutely must do!).

Here’s my idea of a nice walk packed with top attractions and some smaller gems to discover the true spirit of Rome in one day! But remember; there’s way more to see! (Read here )

What to do when only one day in Rome | Walking map

One day in rome: the walk.

Campo de’ Fiori

This one day in Rome walk starts at the Campo de’ Fiori, a charming square with a picturesque market where locals and tourists buy food every day. Try one of the delicious fruit cups and turn Southwest to the Piazza Farnese via the Via dei Baullari. Here you will find the Palazzo Farnese and two identical fountains. Then turn back via the Vicolo del Gallo to the Campo de’ Fiori and take the Via dei Baullari in Northeast direction. You’ll pass some nice shops like Lala Italia. Cross the Corso Vittorio Emanuele II and turn into the Via della Cuccagna to arrive at Piazza Navona.

Piazza Navona

This is the most beautiful square of Rome. It contains three gorgeous fountains; the Fountain of the Four Rivers, the Neptune Fountain and the Moor Fountain and the beautiful Baroque church of Sant’Agnese in Agone. After exploring this fantastic place, take the Via di Sant’Agnese in Agone and continue to the Piazza del Fico, Vicolo delle Vacche, Via della Vetrina and turn left at the Via dei Coronari. Here you’ll find a lot of small shops and restaurants. Continue until you reach the Piazza dei Coronari where you turn right at the Via di Panico. At the end you’ll reach Castel Sant’Angelo.

Castel Sant’Angelo / Ponte Vittorio Emanuele II

You can cross the Ponte Sant’Angelo to continue, but it’s better to stay at this side of the river and take your pictures of the bridge and the Castel Sant’Angelo and then go further left direction Ponte Vittorio Emanuele II, the most beautiful bridge of Rome. At the heads the bridge is decorated with winged statues of the Goddess Victoria. The sculpture groups on the bridge itself symbolize “Loyalty to the State”, “Freedom”, “The Unification of Italy” and “Oppression Conquered”. Cross the bridge and take the Borgo Santo Spirito to the left and continue until you reach the Piazza San Pietro.

Basilica di San Pietro

Your one day in Rome can’t be spend without a visit of the Basilica di San Pietro! Enjoy the views on the piazza and then go back via the Via della Conciliazione. Pass the Castel Sant’Angelo on your left and continue until the Piazza dei Tribunali. Here the Palace of Justice is located, a very impressive building to admire. Then cross the Ponte Umberto and continue your walk via the Via Giuseppe Zanardelli, turn left at the Piazza delle Cinque Lune and turn right at Corso di Rinascimento (or at the Via Agonale to return to the Piazza Navona). Then take the Via del Salvatore, turn right at the Via della Dogana Vecchia and turn left at the Salita dei Crescenzi. Continue until you reach the Piazza della Rotonda.

Another famous historical site of Rome. The Pantheon is free to enter and the hole in the dome where the sunlight enters the massive marble room, gives it a surreal and divine character. Take your time to look around and after your visit you can enjoy the lovely piazza and its fountain and if you’re hungry look for a nice place to lunch in one of the surrounding streets (it’s cheaper to eat there than at the Piazza della Rotonda itself). After lunch take the Via dei Pastini to the Piazza di Pietra and turn right at the Via de’ Burro. Continue this streeet until you reach the Piazza di Sant’Ignazio.

Chiesa di Sant’Ignazio di Loyola

Visit the Church of Sant’Ignazio di Loyola. Take a look up inside and admire the fantastic Tromp l’oeil painted dome, which looks as if it’s a real dome (but it’s actually just a flat ceiling). Return to the Piazza di Pietra and take the Via di Pietra, cross the Via del Corso (the main shopping street of Rome) and continue via the Via delle Muratte where you will pass a small market with souvenir stands. Keep going until you hear the bustling sound of the water of the most famous fountain in the world; the Fontana di Trevi!

Fontana di Trevi

This is my absolute favorite place in Rome, any time of the day. It’s always crowded (except late at night) and the perfect place to sit down for a while with a gelato and watch people. After worshipping this stunning fountain take the Via Poli (at the left side of the Trevi fountain), cross the Via del Tritone and continue passing the Via del Bufalo, Via di Sant’Andrea delle Fratte and the Via di Propaganda. Until you reach the Piazza di Spagna. If you didn’t have lunch yet you could eat at the Piazza Mignanelli at Mignanelli 24.

Piazza di Spagna

This square (again) has a gorgeous fountain where you can fill your empty plastic bottle with water. You can sit on the Spanish Steps for a while or, if you want to spend serious money, spend some time at the expensive shops of the Via dei Condotti where you’ll find Gucci, Louis Vuitton etc. Then go up the stairs, enjoy the view of the Roman rooftops and take the Via Sistina at the right side of the Trinita dei Monti church. Keep going until you reach Piazza Barberini.

Piazza Barberini

Here you’ll find the Fontana del Tritone (yep, another pretty fountain), but make sure you don’t get hit by a car trying to reach the fountain. Traffic is crazy here! Then continue your walk via the Via delle Quattro Fontane. At the four corner fountains turn right. Follow the Via del Quirinale, passing the residence of Italy’s president. Take a look at the Piazza del Quirinale which offers a wonderful view. Then take the Via della Consulta and continue via the Via dei Serpenti and the Via degli Annibaldi to reach the Colosseum.

Colosseo / Monumento a Vittorio Emanuele II

Take a walk around the Colosseum and then proceed via the Via dei Fori Imperiali passing the remarkable remains of the Foro Romano. If you want you can take the Via di San Pietro in Carcere up to the Campidoglio and from there continue via the terraces of the Monumento a Vittorio Emanuele II to the Piazza Venezia. If you’re too tired you can continue passing the Monumento a Vittorio Emanuele II from the ground floor. But you’ll miss the fantastic views on the Foro Romano and the Colosseo. You can also take an elevator to the roof of the monument to enjoy some more views of Rome. When you arrive at the Piazza Venezia continue to the other side of the monument and cross the street at the Piazza Aracoeli to turn back to a more quieter neighbourhood; the Jewish quarter.

Jewish Quarter

Take the Via Margana, the Via Delfini and the Via dei Funari until you arrive at the Piazza Mattei where you’ll discover the Fontana delle Tartarughe (the Turtle Fountain). If it’s already dinner time or aperitivo time when you are there, I’ll advice you to take the Via della Reginella to the Via del Portico D’Ottavia. Here you’ll find a lot of bars and restaurants.

If you’re lucky to be able to spend the evening in Rome I advise to cross the Tiber (river) and have dinner at Trastevere!

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November 10, 2015 at 4:37 AM

Great photos. Rome is gorgeous and, if you’re willing to walk, the necessary sites are achievable in one day.

June 12, 2017 at 2:15 AM

Thank you very much for the article. Helped a great deal, for my 1 day in Rome… 🙂

April 2, 2018 at 5:23 PM

How long would seeing all of this take in a day? And have you updated a newer version of this day plan.

April 3, 2018 at 4:53 PM

Depends on how fast you’re walking and how many pics you take! 🙂 Why would I update this? This is just a route I have done. No need to change it?

July 16, 2018 at 5:19 PM

Thank you so much for sharing this detailed plan! I have found it very useful and am excited to check out some of these places!

July 18, 2018 at 3:27 PM

you’re welcome 🙂

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Free Rome Self-Guided Walking Tour: Explore The Eternal City On Foot

Rome is an exciting city, with a wealth of world-famous attractions dating from nearly 3 millennia of history. Use this free self-guided walking tour of Rome to experience the best of the city on foot, including ancient ruins, icons of the Renaissance and charming vine-draped lanes.

One of the great things about exploring Rome using a self-guided walking route is that you don’t have to pay for a guide – it is free! And the other is that you don’t have to stick with a group – you have total freedom to go at your own pace.

Follow this two-day walking tour to explore the best of the Eternal City. There’s a lot in here, so feel free to use the Table of Contents if helpful.

Disclosure: This article contains affiliate links. These are links to products or experiences I recommend and if you were to buy something after clicking on them, I might earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Any earnings go towards the upkeep of this blog, which I appreciate.

Table of Contents

About This Rome Self-Guided Walking Tour

If you follow this walking tour, you can experience the following and more:

• All the main attractions of Rome, including the Vatican, Castel Sant’Angelo, Trevi Fountain, the Spanish Steps, The Pantheon and Piazza Navona
• Relics of Ancient Rome, including the Colosseum, The Roman Forum and Palatine Hill
• Renaissance masterpieces, at St Peter’s Basilica and Palazzo Farnese
• The charming old streets of Trastevere and Via dei Coronari
• Stunning viewpoints across the city, including from Pincio Hill, Aventine Hill and Janiculan Hill

Rome is not as big a city as London or Paris , but it is big enough with a lot to see and do, so this walking tour is spread out over two days. This is based on a walking tour I did myself – I tried to do it all in one day, but it was too much!  So I have suggested two walking tour routes which cover most of the main attractions in Rome. However, you could do this tour in less time if you cut some stops out at the beginning or end.

The walking distances are as follows:

• Day 1: 8km (5 miles), which would be 1 hour & 40 minutes of walking, if you did it all at a brisk pace with no stops
• Day 2: 7km (4.4 miles), which would be 1 hour & 25 minutes of walking, if you did it all at a brisk pace with no stops.

However, of course, there are a lot of things to see and experience along the way, plus you’ll want to stop for coffee etc – which is why you should allow much more time than the walking times suggest.

In this post I have described the main stops in the order I recommend you do them, and I’ve also put an annotated map at the end, so you can follow the route for each day.

Tips For Walking Around Rome

Having walked this entire route myself, here are some tips:

• Wear comfortable shoes – you’re covering a lot of ground in this walking tour, so wear something cushioned and comfy to prevent blisters
• Bring a water bottle – but don’t worry if you run out of water. Rome has a system of fresh drinking water fountains called Nasoni . The name relates to the nose-like curved spout on the fountains. The water from these is free and clean – it’s the same drinking water piped into Roman homes.
• Manage your expectations of the cafes around the main sites – cafes and eateries on the main squares and around landmarks may have the best views. However, they may not be the best quality and might have high prices. I’m not saying you should avoid them – it can be nice to sit in a prime spot overlooking a beautiful landmark, but it’s worth knowing the score. I had a great view of the Pantheon in Piazza della Rotunda, but my cappuccino cost €4.50, service was slow and there were cockroaches in the toilet.
• Electric scooters & bikes are popular in Rome. You might consider hiring one of these to explore Rome easily. I am not sure exactly how the system works, but it seems like you pick them up wherever you find them and drop them off whenever you run out of money – they seem to be discarded all over the place!  You will see them everywhere, and it’s worth keeping an eye out for them on pedestrian roads – I nearly got hit by a scooter twice!
• Keep your eyes open – there are lots of world-famous sights in Rome, which this walking route will show you. But if you go slowly and take the time to look around, you’ll find all sorts of delightful corners and alleys that help make Rome a pleasure to walk around.

Rome Self-Guided Walking Tour – Day One

I suggest you start day 1 really early in the morning to see as much as possible in the morning light and without crowds – start at 7 or 7:30 am if you can.

The Vatican & St. Peter’s Basilica

This self-guided walking tour of Rome actually doesn’t start in Rome. The Vatican is a sovereign nation, a city-state within Italy, meaning it is not technically in Rome – although it is located within Rome.

The Vatican City State is a micro-state, comprised of St Peter’s Basilica, the Papal residence, the Vatican Museum and some other Vatican buildings & gardens. You can’t stay here overnight in a hotel or Airbnb here and I don’t think there are any restaurants (although there are food trucks just outside the boundary of the Vatican).

However, it draws a huge number of visitors because of its religious significance and its wealth of renaissance art and architecture. The main Vatican attractions are:

• St. Peter’s Basilica the large renaissance-style church of St Peters, where the Pope conducts mass, was completed in 1626. The basilica’s interior is as grand and opulent as the exterior and there are many works of art including Michelangelo’s Pietà. At 136.57m tall, St Peter’s dome is the largest in the world and if you climb up into it, you will be rewarded with stunning views of Rome.
• The Sistine Chapel , whose walls and ceiling are covered in vivid frescos, most famously the ceiling, painted by Michelangelo.
• Vatican Museum – this is an extensive museum showcasing a huge collection of classical Roman sculptures and Renaissance art. If you have a ticket for the Vatican Museum , the Sistine Chapel is included (and if you’re only interested in the Sistine Chapel, you will have to buy a ticket and go through the main museum to get there – I was a bit gutted about that when I went!)
• St. Peter’s Piazza – the circular piazza outside the basilica has an obelisk in the centre, is ringed by columns and porticoes and is overlooked by what looks like dancing statues. I saw Pope John Paul II here on my first visit to Rome – there was some kind of papal audience and he was driven in and out in his Popemobile.

Timing For The Vatican

Now, here’s the thing: if you want to explore all of these things in the Vatican, you will need at least half a day, which will reduce the time you have to explore Rome on this walking tour.

My suggestion is not to do both on the same day. When doing the walking tour, admire the basilica from St Peter’s Piazza and then move on. If you are there really early in the morning, like I suggest, you’ll have the special experience of seeing the place empty or almost empty.

Come back another day for the full Vatican experience – perhaps timing it so that you climb the dome just before sunset to see the city bathed in warm light.

Castel Sant’Angelo & Ponte Sant’Angelo

Ten minutes walk eastwards from St Peter’s is the Mausoleum of Hadrian, also known as Castel Sant’Angelo . It was built in the 2 nd century as a mausoleum for the Roman Emperor Hadrian and was later used by the popes as a fortress and prison. It is now a museum displaying artwork, frescoes and sculptures from Roman history and you can climb to the top to see the sculpture of Archangel Michael and also for views of Rome. Tours here are amongst the most unique tours in Rome .

Ponte Sant’Angelo has 10 angels on either side of the bridge and it crosses the Tiber to link the castle with the city. Again, if you’re here early, you will be able to experience the bridge with no tourists on it.

Ponte Umberto I

Heading east, the next bridge from Ponte Sant’Angelo is Ponte Umberto I , which is an attractive bridge opposite the Supreme Court of Cassation . However, the main reason for stopping here is that you get a great view of St Peter’s and Ponte Sant’Angelo from here. Looking westwards in the morning, with the sun behind you, the view should be lit beautifully.

Piazza del Popolo

To get to Piazza del Popolo, follow the river Tiber until you get to Ponte Regina Margherita – you can walk either side of the river. The left/west side is a quiet stretch of the walking route – with no major sites, there are not likely to be many tourists around here. If you walk on the right/east side, you could stop by the Mausoleum of Augustus .

Piazza del Popolo is an oval-shaped square with an Egyptian obelisk in the centre (another obelisk – there are 13 obelisks in Rome !). It was built in the early 1800s and features the twin churches Santa Maria dei Miracoli and Santa Maria in Montesanto . On the opposite side is Porta del Popolo , a gate in the Aurelian Walls of Rome.

Piazza del Popolo is also the start of Via del Corso , one of the main streets through the centre of Rome. There are some marble benches around the square if you need a breather by this point in your walking tour of Rome.

Pincio Viewpoint & Terrazza Viale Del Belvedere

Take the steps on the northeast corner of the square (looking back to take a picture if you want), and head up Pincio (Pincian Hill). The path goes up through some trees and you’ll pass a pay toilet if you need one.

At the top, there’s a large terrace with statues and a view over Piazza del Popolo and across the city – it’s a lovely scene. From here, head southeast down Viale del Belvedere, enjoying the leafy walkway and the glimpses of the city through the fruit trees. 

There’s another terrace with a view at Terrazza Viale del Belvedere . And a little further still, there’s a café called Caffè Ciampini di Marco Ciampini – you might appreciate a rest stop by this point!

Spanish Steps

A little further along this route and you’ll come to another obelisk outside a renaissance-style church, Trinità dei Monti . You’re now at the top of the Spanish Steps ,

It was built in the 1720s to connect the church to Piazza di Spagna , which has a baroque fountain and is not far from the Spanish Embassy to the Holy See. The grand stairway has 135 steps and there are fines for loitering on or damaging them.

There’s a scene in The Talented Mr Ripley (1999) where two of the main characters meet on a café terrace at the base of the Spanish steps – so I was really disappointed to learn there are none there in real life!

From Piazza di Spagna, you could wander westwards down Via dei Condotti , which is a major shopping street in Rome and where you’ll find high-end brands. However, our walking tour of Rome takes us in a different direction: southwards past the Column of the Immaculate Conception .

Trevi Fountain

The route to the Trevi Fountain goes down some cute cobbled streets – but there are also a lot of tacky souvenirs on sale on some of these streets.

The Trevi Fountain is spectacular: large and elaborate; the graceful baroque design and turquoise pool are gorgeous. It is a world-famous landmark and has featured in many movies, most memorably, La Dolce Vita (1960), in which Anita Ekberg’s character wades into the pool at night.

It is also, naturally, popular!  There’s no point expecting to have the place to yourself – you will be disappointed. It’s best to expect a crowd, and you might have to wait for a spot on the edge of the pool to be free. It’s also a good idea to keep a careful eye on your belongings here: thieves can take advantage of the opportunities crowds bring. The fountain faces south/south-east so it is well-lit in the mornings.

The fountain was finished in 1762 and features a central statue of Oceanus, an ancient Greek Titan and father of the river gods. There’s a tradition of throwing money into the fountain if you wish to return to the city one day – and I’m told the way to do it is to throw using your right hand over your left shoulder. The money gets collected and used for charity.

The Pantheon

The next stop on this self-guided walking tour of Rome is one of my favourites: The ancient and geometric Pantheon.

To get there, pass by the Marcus Aurelius Column , a column in honour of the Roman emperor Marcus Aurelius from the year 193, featuring a spiral relief telling the story of his victories in war. Just beyond that is Piazza di Monte Citorio , a piazza in front of Palazzo Montecitorio featuring another Egyptian obelisk.

The Pantheon itself sits in a small piazza named for the round shape of the Pantheon: Piazza della Rotunda . Guess what’s in the middle of Piazza della Rotunda fountain? You guessed it: an obelisk! There’s also a Nasoni right by the fountain.

The Pantheon is really remarkable – it is huge and ancient.  Originally a Roman Temple commissioned by Marcus Agrippa during the reign of Augustus (27BC-14AD), it was converted to a catholic church in 609AD. The building is cylindrical with a portico of large granite Corinthian columns. I remember the second time I was in Rome, I was wandering around aimlessly, turned a corner and there was the Pantheon in front of me, dark and mysterious!

What’s most impressive to me, though, is the domed ceiling. It is perfectly circular and features a central opening to the sky, surrounded by geometric reliefs. It looks too crisp and perfect to be almost 2,000 years old, but it is – and what’s more, the Pantheon’s dome is still the world’s largest unreinforced concrete dome.  It’s far smaller and less glamourous than St Peters, but if there’s one church interior to see in Rome, personally, I think it’s this one.

Entry To The Pantheon

Entry to the Pantheon is free Monday to Friday, but it is popular, so there can be a queue around the piazza. However, the queue moves quickly because there is only one space inside that you can explore in a loop. It’s a quick but memorable visit.

If you want to go on a Saturday, Sunday or public holiday, you’ll need to reserve a place on a paid guided tour or buy an audio guide .

By this point, you might want a bite to eat for lunch, and there are two tasty and affordable options near the Pantheon:

• All’Antico Vinaio is a chain that specialises in sandwiches including mortadella, prosciutto, salami and pancetta. They also have a few options with truffles, which I could smell from outside the shop!  There was also a massive queue here, so I went to the next place instead of waiting.
• Lost Food Factory is a smaller place that does freshly made panini – I really enjoyed my Magdalena panini, with aubergine, mozzarella, tomato and pesto. My panini was €7

Both of these places are take-way, but there are walls around the Pantheon where many people sat to eat their sandwiches – I saw a lot of All’Antico Vinaio wrappers there!

If you’re not hungry yet, there’s another great place to eat a bit further along the walking tour route:

• La Salumeria is a small sandwich shop near Ponte Sant’Angelo that has some eat-in space. I had a delicious prosciutto, brie and fig sandwich and drink here for €7.50.

Piazza Navona

Piazza Navona is one of the most prominent squares in Rome. It’s a long oblong shape and if you’re thinking it reminds you of a stadium shape, that’s because it was on built the site of the ancient Roman Stadium of Domitian, which was built in 80AD.

It’s a pleasant space, with three fountains – one at each end and one in the middle, near the church of Sant’Agnese in Agone. This one is the Fontana dei Quattro Fiumi or Fountain of the Four Rivers and you already know what’s at the centre of the fountain (an obelisk, of course).

There are stone benches around the edges of the piazza and artists offering portraits. The last time I was here, a huge group of people with earphones took over one end and did a silent workout!

There are two hotels that have rooftop restaurants/bars where you can have a drink with a view in the evening, so Piazza Navona could be somewhere to come back to in the evening (though you will need to reserve a spot):

• “La Grande Bellezza” at the Eitch Borromini
• Mater Terrae Restaurant in the Bio Hotel Raphaël serves organic vegan food

Via dei Coronari

From Piazza Navona, head past the Bio Hotel Raphaël and through the narrow alleys onto Via dei Coronari . This long, straight Roman road runs through the Ponte district and it’s one of my favourite places in Rome.

Most of the buildings date from the 15th and 16th centuries and the street is narrow and quaint, with a lovely charm.  Take your time here – there are some craft and jewellery shops along here and plenty of pretty doorways and side streets to distract you. There’s also a Nasoni if you need a top-up of water.

Campo de’ Fiori & Palazzo Farnese

At the end of Via dei Coronari, head south until you find Via dei Banchi Vecchi and continue in a southeast direction (follow the map below for specific streets if you want them or just wander in that general direction). The smaller streets in this area are quite charming.

Your next stop is Campo de’ Fiori , a square once used for executions and now known for its market. It’s a busy spot with stalls selling flowers, food and clothes, plus there could be buskers playing. There are also café terraces and a fountain at the northern end. It’s a good spot for some shopping and/or people-watching.

A short walk down Via dei Baullari is Palazzo Farnese , a 16th-century palace that is considered to be a renaissance masterpiece and is now the French Embassy in Italy. You can have guided tours, but I haven’t done that and can’t speak to it. At the least, I suggest you pop your head into Piazza Farnese to see the dramatic façade.

Largo di Torre Argentina

The final stop on day 1 of this Rome self-guided walking tour is a taste of what is to come tomorrow morning: ancient Roman ruins.

Largo di Torre Argentina is a square containing the ruins of four Roman temples and Pompey’s Theatre. Julius Caesar was assassinated in a meeting space near the theatre. There is access to get into the ruins, where there’s also a cat sanctuary, which is a little random, but kind of cool. Alternatively, you can admire the site from the pavement surrounding it.

I have to say, when I did this walking route, by the time I made it here, I was feeling rather weary and I spent some time sitting and recuperating in a small leafy square called Piazza Benedetto Cairoli , before heading back to my hotel for a nap!

Rome Self-Guided Walking Tour – Day Two

I suggest you start early on day 2 also, especially because the route begins in one of the most touristy areas of Rome. If you plan to go inside monuments like the Roman Forum and the Colosseum, it is best to book them in advance.

Victor Emmanuel II Monument (Altar of the Fatherland)

Built on the slopes of Capitoline Hill, one of the Seven Hills of Ancient Rome and rising high above most other buildings, the Victor Emmanuel II Monument is a prominent and recognisable landmark in Rome.

It was built to honour Victor Emmanuel II, the first king of unified Italy. Work started in the 1880s and it was fully completed in 1935. I understand that during Mussolini’s fascist regime, it was a favourite place for military parades. The monument is neoclassical in style and contains a number of points of interest, including:

• A museum of Italian unification
• The Alter of the Fatherland (a name which some use to refer to the entire monument) celebrates united Italy
• The Tomb of the Unknown soldier
• Large portico with Corinthian columns and various fountains and statues throughout – including a statue of Victor Emmanuel II, of course
• An observation deck with views of Rome

In addition, tucked behind are some other landmarks:

• Basilica di Santa Maria in Ara coeli , a church from the 13the century
• Campidoglio , an attractive square designed by Michaelangelo

On my first visit to Rome, I remember hearing the Victor Emmanuel II Monument was nicknamed ‘the typewriter’ or ‘the wedding cake’ – and the latter stuck in my mind because its tall white structure topped with statues does remind me of a wedding cake!  For me, it’s not the most attractive monument in Rome, but it is undoubtedly a spectacle and part of the story of the city.

You can explore the monument itself, or if you simply want to look at it, there’s a good vantage point in the middle of Piazza Venezia .

Roman Forum & Via dei Fori Imperioli

Via dei Fori Imperiali is a straight road lined with iconic stone pine trees, from the Victor Emmanuel II Monument to the Colosseum. The road was built under fascism and named Via dell’Impero by Mussolini, who opened it in 1932.  It was renamed after World war II. It’s an impressive boulevard but quite touristy – expect there to be people selling souvenirs or phone chargers etc.

On either side of the road, you will see a large number of ancient ruins, collectively comprising the Roman Forum . The Roman Forum was the central hub of ancient Rome, millennia ago. Among the ruins are various temples and landmarks.

If you would like to explore these ruins in more detail, you can buy a ticket, and you can combine entry to the Forum with Palatine Hill and also the Colosseum . If you have only a passing interest, you might be satisfied with seeing the ruins from the road.

You’ll see the Colosseum from Via dei Fori Imperiali – it really is an incredible sight. No wonder it is one of the top things to see in Rome and is included as one of the New Seven W o nders Of The World .

The oval amphitheatre is the largest ancient amphitheatre ever built and was built in 80AD and could hold 50-80k spectators. It is perhaps most famous for its gladiatorial contests, but it was used for all sorts of entertainment, including animal hunts, executions, re-enactments of famous battles, mock sea battles and dramas.

The Colosseum is one of my favourite Rome attractions. I remember the first time I visited Rome, my friends and I decided to have a look around, so we wandered the streets near our hostel, not really with an agenda in mind. We turned a corner and there was the Colosseum, its oval shape and arched windows were unmistakable.  I couldn’t believe there was a road all around it – it seemed too precious to have traffic so near it!

In my opinion, the exterior is more impressive than the interior.  I found it rather crowded on my visit and hard to get a good view due to the number of people at every viewpoint. That said, I did not have a ticket to tour the basement level, so it might be better if you have that included ( these tickets cost extra) . I did enjoy some of the details within the amphitheatre, and also the way the huge windows from the view from it.

I suggest you do a full circumference around the exterior. If you want a good photo, there’s a good viewpoint on the pavement alongside Via Nicola Salvi on the north side of the Colosseum, where there are some plants including palm trees.

Be sure to check out the Arch of Constantine to the southwest of the Colosseum. It is a triumphal arch dedicated to the emperor Constantine the Great and dates from the 4 th century AD.  

Palatine Hill & Circus Maximus

From the Colosseum, head south on Via di San Gregorio , leaving the Colosseum crowds behind. It’s an attractive road : wide and straight; lined with stone pine trees. I love these trees – and if I see them anywhere else in the world, they always evoke memories of Rome.

There’s an entrance to Palatine Hill (or Palatino), another archaeological site with ancient roman remains, and another of the seven hills of Rome.

At the end of Via di San Gregorio, you’ll come to Circus Maximus, or Circo Massimo. This was originally an Ancient Roman chariot-racing stadium that could hold 150,000 spectators. Today looks simply like a grassy bowled depression, but you can make out the shape of what was the stadium. There’s a small museum at the south end and a viewing platform at Belvedere Romolo e Remo , which overlooks the circus and also the remains of the Palatino that lie behind it.

Rose Garden

From Belvedere Romolo e Remo, take Via di’Valle Murcia, which takes you up Aventine Hill . This is the southernmost of the Seven Hills of Rome and an elegant, well-to-do area which was once home to the aristocracy during the imperial era of ancient Rome.

It also has some lovely gardens and viewpoints. The first of these is the Municipal Rose Garden (or Roseto Comunale ), a gorgeous rose garden with some shady seats and glimpses of the city between trees. The Roseto is home to around 1,100 species of roses from all over the world. It’s a great place to sit and rest if your legs are tired.

However, its opening dates are unclear – I have read it is only open in May-June, and also that it is only open in October (which is when I visited it) and April. Sorry not to have a more definitive answer – but according to the Comune.Roma website, you can also arrange guided tours.

If it is closed when you do this walking tour, don’t worry, because there is another lovely spot coming up next.

Giardino degli Aranci

Giardino degli Aranci (Orange Garden in English) is a park and viewing terrace on top of Aventine Hill. It was built in 1932 and has an attractive symmetrical layout. There’s plenty of shade from the gorgeous trees and also places to sit.

The star attraction though is the viewing terrace, Terrazza Belvedere Aventino , which overlooks Rome, including great views of St Peter’s and the Victor Emmanuel II Monument. It’s one of the loveliest viewpoints in Rome.

Keyhole of the Order of Malta

A little further on from Giardino degli Aranci, past two churches ( Basilica di Santa Sabina all’Aventino and Basilica of Saints Bonifatius of Tarsus and Alexis of Rome ), you’ll come to a small square named Piazza of the Knights of Malta .

Here is one of the most unique things to do in Rome: Keyhole of the Order of Malta .

The Order of Malta (or, Sovereign Military Order of Malta in full) is a Catholic lay religious order related to the Knights Hospitaller, a chivalric order that was founded about 1099 during the Crusades in Jerusalem. I’ve read their focus is on humanitarian efforts and they have had permanent observer status at the United Nations General Assembly since 1994.

They have an embassy in Rome which has gardens, including two rows of trees lined up to create a tunnel view of the dome of St Peters. While you can’t visit the gardens, you can peek at through a keyhole (yes, a literal keyhole!) in a locked door – and the keyhole lets you look down that tree tunnel towards St Peters.

While it’s not as well-known as many of the other attractions in Rome, there’s likely to be a queue here (you can even see one on the satellite view of Rome on GoogleMaps!). I waited approximately 20 minutes for my look through the keyhole – and I would say it was worth it. Even though the experience is very brief, the view is lovely and I’ve certainly never experienced anything quite like it before!

Pyramid of Cestius & Porta San Paolo

Did you know there’s a pyramid in Rome? Well, there is and that’s the next stop on this walking tour of Rome.

For the last stop before lunch, head down the hill into the residential area of Testaccio, which, by the way, is one of the best areas to stay in Rome .

The white marble Pyramid of Cestius was built around 18-12 BC as a tomb for Gaius Cestius Epulo, who was some kind of magistrate. At 36.5 meters tall, it is smaller and also younger than the pyramids of Egypt and looks very well maintained. Its sharply pointed shape is apparently more like the pyramids of Nubia, which was attacked by Rome in 23 BC, suggesting they took inspiration from those pyramids for this tomb. At one time, it was not the only pyramid in Rome: a larger one, the Pyramid of Romulus, once stood between the Vatican and Castel Sant’Angelo but was dismantled in the 16th century and its marble was used for St. Peter’s Basilica.

The pyramid was not open for visitors when I went – I could only look at it from the street. I believe if you want to tour the Pyramid of Cestius, you need to arrange a guided tour.

Next to the Pyramid of Cestius is Porta San Paolo, a gate in the 3rd-century Aurelian Walls (the same walls that Porta del Popolo, which is on the Day 1 route, is part of). If they were anywhere else, I think these gates would be revered as a major landmark, but in Rome, they’re just on the side of a busy street, traffic whizzing by all day.

Lunch: Felice a Testaccio

You’re probably hungry by this point, so grab lunch at Felice a Testaccio , which is a very nice restaurant in the grid streets of Testaccio. I read about this place on a list of the best restaurants in Rome. Although I have not been to enough Rome restaurants to confirm this, it is one of the best that I have eaten in in Rome.

It’s quite fancy inside, but there’s a terrace outside that feels more relaxed. I really enjoyed the Ravioli alla Felice, which somehow felt fresh & light but also filling.

After lunch, head north through the grid streets, past Piazza Testaccio and Giardino Familglio di Consiglio , then across the River Tiber into Trastevere .

Trastevere means ‘beyond the Tiber’ and is an area of Rome on the west side of the river, south of the Vatican. Historically, it has been home variously to Etruscans, sailors and fishermen, the Jewish community and wealthy aristocrats. Compared to the east side of the Tiber, Trastevere has a small-town charm: with old buildings and narrow cobbled streets, sometimes draped with vines.

There aren’t really major sights to see here. There are a bunch of churches and even more pretty alleyways, so I suggest you just meander around and soak it up.

When I first visited Rome 20 years ago, Trastevere felt kind of sleepy, like you were getting away from the hubbub of Rome. However, its quaint charm has led to it becoming very popular – and in the evenings, the central streets can be heaving with people and there are queues for many restaurants.

Belvedere Niccolò Scatoli and/or Belvedere del Gianicolo

If you still have energy, I suggest you finish day 2 of this self-guided walking tour of Rome with a final viewpoint.

There are two on the Janiculum Hill above Trastevere, looking eastwards. Both are lovely at sunset, when, with the sun behind you on a clear day, the city will be bathed in the warm light of the setting sun:

• Belvedere Niccolò Scatoli is a relatively short walk and is an attractive terrace with a view across the rooftops. It is next to an ornate fountain, Fontana dell’Acqua Paola.
• Belvedere del Gianicolo is higher up the hillside overlooking some parkland and the city. It is next to a monument to Giuseppe Garibaldi, an Italian general who contributed to the unification of Italy.

Map: Rome Self-Guided Walking Tour Route

Here’s a Rome walking tour map showing the attractions and walking routes for this two-part walking tour:

How To Use This Map : Click the tab in the top left-hand corner of the map to view the layers. If you click the icons on the map, you can get more information about each one.  If you click the star next to the map’s title, it will be added to your Google Maps account. To view it on your phone or computer, open Google Maps, click the menu, go to ‘Your Places’ or ‘Saved’, then click Maps and you will see this map in your list.

FAQs: Rome Self-Guided Walking Tour

Why visit rome.

I’m someone who’s interested in cities and I often visit the capital city of countries, but Rome is not just the capital of Italy: it’s a major destination in Europe and the world. It’s travel mecca.

With history spanning millennia, it’s an ancient city, with an artistic soul and a relentless, infectious energy.

And it’s not even just the city: it’s also possible to get to lots of other wonderful places in Italy by taking day trips from Rome by train .

How To Get To Rome?

Rome has two airports: Leonardo da Vinci International Airport at Fiumicino, west of the city, which is the main one; and also Ciampino Airport, to the southeast of the city.

I tend to use Skyscanner to find flight deals.

Italy has a great train network, so if you’re travelling to Rome by train, the main station is Roma Termini, just east of the city centre. It is connected to the Rome metro network and is also served by buses.

How To Get From Rome Airport To City Center?

From Fiumicino , there’s an express train to Roma Termini, called the Leonardo Express . It runs every 30 minutes. There’s also a number of bus se rvices and you can also take taxis, which have a fixed price of €50. Uber operates in Rome.

From Ciampino , taxis have the same fixed price of €50. There’s a train connection called Ciampino Airlink , but you must take a bus from the airport to the train station first. There is also a shutt le bus option directly from the airport.

When Is The Best Time To Visit Rome?

My favourite time to visit Rome (and Italy in general) is in the shoulder seasons: March-May and September–November. The weather is mild enough to be out and about all day – even in November, and the crowds are reduced. It can be unpleasantly hot in the summer months of June – August, so I have avoided the summer for years now.

Where To Stay In Rome?

I really liked my most recent hotel in Rome, the Hotel Bloom . It was a little way from the city centre: a 10-15 minute walk from St Peters, up the hill above Trastevere (but without an easy route to Trastevere).

However, it made up for the distance with a really big, comfortable room and a great view of St Peters.

Can You Walk Around Rome In A Day?

Unless you have amazing stamina and you’re willing to rush from place to place without dwelling on them, I don’t think you can see all the main sights in a day. That’s why I have created this two-day Rome self-guided walking tour.

However, if you only have one day to explore Rome on foot, then you could use a cut-down version of this route. For example, you could start at the Spanish Steps, and follow the route all the way to the Colosseum. This way, you’ll see all the major sights in central Rome in one day. And if you wanted to at least see the Vatican during that day, you could detour from the route after Via dei Coronari and go onto Ponte Sant’Angelo, to have a look at it.

Do I Need To Book Vatican Tour In Advance?

Yes, it can get booked up, so it is wise to book your tickets in advance. In fact, I would advise this for any major Rome attraction that requires a ticket, including the Colosseum and the Pantheon (if you’re going there on a weekend).

Can You Do A Self-Guided Tour Of The Colosseum?

Yes, there are several ticket options that allow you to explore at your own pace, without a guide. At the beginning of the route through the colosseum, there’s an exhibition where you can learn about the construction and use of the structure.

The Final Word

I hope you find this Rome self-guided walking tour helpful!  The only other piece of advice I can give you is don’t hold back from taking detours from the route – I really enjoy a bit of aimless wandering and Rome is a great city in which to do that.  

Finally, do check out my other posts on Italy , including Venice and Bologna .

If you like this article, I'd be delighted if you shared it!

About The Author

Martha Knight

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4 thoughts on “free rome self-guided walking tour: explore the eternal city on foot”.

Hi, we recently followed this 2 day tour on a family holiday and it was superb! Thank you for putting it together and for all the helpful information.

Oh great! Thanks so much for letting me know – I’m really pleased you enjoyed it. Hope your feet weren’t sore by the end of it 🙂

I was unable to get the table of contents to open. Great article!

Thanks! And sorry about the table of contents – there was a big but its fixed now, I believe 🙂

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Rome in One Day: Rome and Vatican Full Day Walking Tour

Rome in one day: rome & vatican full day walking tour, the key facts, semi-private tour.

Monday to Saturday at 9.00am

Small Group Tour

Tuesday, Wednesday & Friday at 9.00am

Group Sizes:

Semi-Private Tour: 2-6 people

Small Group Tour: 4-12 people

• Skip the lines to the Colosseum, Roman Forum, Pantheon and the Vatican Museums.
• Visit the stunning Trevi Fountain and Spanish Steps with an expert guide.
• Learn about the Ancient, Medieval, Renaissance, Baroque and Modern eras.
• Tick all the must-see sights of Rome off your bucket list.
• See all of the Vatican City -the Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel and St Peter’s Basilica.
• Throw a coin in the Trevi Fountain to ensure you come back to Rome!
• With reserved no-line tickets, visit the oldest surviving temple in Rome – the Pantheon.
• Choose between a Semi-Private Tour of only 6 people, or joining a Small Group Tour of up to 12 people.

• Adult: €275
• Child (aged 5-17 on the day of the tour) : €225
• Infant (aged 0-4 on the day of the tour) : Free
• Adult: €175
• Child (aged 5-17 on the day of the tour) : €140
• Adult: €135
• Child (aged 5-17 on the day of the tour) : €100
• Child (aged 5-17 on the day of the tour) : €75

YOUR FULL TOUR

Description.

See the best of Rome in a single day. On this full day walking tour of Rome, you will see the best and most popular attractions that are on every first-time visitor’s bucket list:

The Colosseum, Roman Forum, Palatine Hill, Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel, St Peter’s Basilica, the Trevi Fountain, Spanish Steps, Pantheon, Piazza Navona.

Skip the lines with advance reservations to the Colosseum, Roman Forum, Palatine Hill, the Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel and St Peter’s Basilica, so none of your valuable time is wasted.

Perfect for the first-time visitor!

Hit the ground running in your Rome in a Day Tour and skip the mind-numbing queues for the Roman Colosseum, the ancient world’s greatest sports arena! Your guide will enthral you with tales of gladiators and martyrs that made the Colosseum famous while exploring the remnants of their history together.

Next you’ll head over to the Roman Forum to learn how the heart of Rome’s all-encompassing empire functioned and thrived. Forget battling through the crowds inside the Forum, your guide will lead you directly to a stunning lookout point. From there, you can take in the entire Forum complex, including the Senate House and the Temple of the Vestal Virgins.

During your Rome in a day tour your guide will make it easy to imagine how the Forum must have appeared 2,000 years ago with stories of war, politics, economics and religion that shaped the ancient city.

No walk through Ancient Rome would be complete without a visit to the Pantheon.

We have timed reservations, which means no standing in line to enter.

This nearly 2,000-year-old building has the largest non-reinforced concrete dome in the world. As you view it from inside on your Rome in a day guided tour, you’ll hear the story of how it was built and why it has inspired so many other buildings, from St. Peter’s Basilica to the U.S. Capitol Building.

Your Rome in one day tour, through the Historic Centre, continues with a stop at the stunning Trevi Fountain, which is the largest baroque fountain in Rome. Legend has it that if you toss a coin over your left shoulder into the Fountain you’ll return to Rome one day.

The next stop in your full day tour of Rome is the Spanish Steps for a spot of people watching and plenty of photo opportunities. From here your guide will take you on the metro to the Vatican, where you will have a break for lunch before entering the Vatican City.

After lunch, your guide will take you straight into the Vatican Museums, where you’ll skip the long lines of people (who didn’t book with Rome Group Tours) and head straight in. With your Vatican expert to guide you, you’ll delve into one of the world’s greatest art collections.

This specially-curated Vatican tour highlights the best works in the vast collections here, giving you a broad understanding and appreciation of what you’re seeing. You’ll explore the sculpture galleries and the world-famous Laocoön Group before heading to the Sistine Chapel.

No Rome in One Day tour would be complete without visiting the most renowned work of Renaissance architecture and the largest church in the world – St Peter’s Basilica. 

Michelangelo’s great dome is something that you have to see in real life. Pictures cannot do it justice or portray the sheer magnitude of it. Your local, expert tour guide will explain to you the fascinating history of its conception, location on the Vatican Hill, design, architecture and symbolism. 

The Basilica features several chapels and contains numerous statues and mosaic works of importance. Your guide will point out the most important, and leave you with time to look around by yourself. The Pietà, one of Michelangelo’s most well-known religious sculptures, is among the highlights of this part of your visit.

Your tour will finish in St. Peter’s Basilica. From there, you can accompany your guide out to St. Peter’s Square, or you can remain to look around the Basilica longer, or climb the dome if you feel up to it!

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One Day in Rome: Self Guided Walking Tour

Is it possible to fit all of Rome’s must-see sights into a one day itinerary? Nope! However, if one day in Rome is all you have, you’re still in for an amazing 24 hours! In this post, we pull ideas from our personal experience of seeing Rome in a day and compile it into a user-friendly self-walking guide!

Granted, you don’t have to walk roughly 17 miles like we did! Feel free to pick and choose which sights you’d like to fit in your one day and plan accordingly. We wrote this itinerary in an order where you could easily skip a sight but still stay on track.

We may have overdone the walking a bit. But being on a tight budget and wanting to see as much as we could, we packed light, wore great walking shoes and never stopped!

We’ve included a walking tour map at the bottom of this post that you can print or just reference digitally. We hope it helps you navigate Rome during your short visit!

For tips on what to eat, you can find all food-related info at the bottom of this itinerary. Hint: it’s delicious! But it’s Rome, so you probably guessed that already.

Stopping for one day in Rome on your way to other parts of Italy? Check out our two week Italy Itinerary where we cover different must-visit regions of Italy and what makes each so special. We’ve got a lot of tips to share too! Speaking of tips…

Tips for Visiting Rome:

Use Google Maps

We had a rough idea of the route we would take but frequently used Google Maps along the way. If we saw any cool sights on the map that were nearby we would take a slight detour.

Pro Tip: You don’t need a phone/data plan to use Google Maps. Download your map ahead of time on wifi and voila! You now have a map of the entire city downloaded to your device. Leave your wifi on so your GPS signal will still work! This is a great money saver for budget travelers! Take note, some features of Google Maps are not available offline, like walking directions or pictures of restaurants and sights.

Wear appropriate shoes

We’ve already mentioned this but it needs repeating: wear good walking shoes! Rome’s metro is a great resource for getting around town but you’ll see so much more of the city if you go by foot. Stumbling upon unexpected points of interest is a guarantee when walking in Rome!

Check on Your Destinations Before You Go

While we still enjoyed a view of St. Peter’s Basilica from a distance, we could’ve gotten up close and personal if we had checked beforehand. Had we done so, we would’ve known about the event in the afternoon, which closed it off to visitors. Oh well!

So for those sights in Rome you really want to see, do a quick search to see if there are any events or closures!

Bring a Reusable Water Bottle

Rome is full of clean, public water fountains. They’re hard to miss! You’ll save a lot of money and create less waste by bringing your own bottle. We use a 1 liter Nalgene and they’re perfect for those long days of exploration.

Getting Around if You’re Tired of Walking

Don’t underestimate Rome’s metro system! We enjoy walking above ground, even if it adds a little time and effort, so we’re able to see a lot of the city. However, if the weather is bad or if it’s just too far, don’t hesitate to use Rome’s metro! Tickets are inexpensive and if you plan on using the metro even a few times, make sure you look into the Day Pass (BIG) , which will save you time and money!

As for buses, we don’t recommend taking those. They’re a little harder to understand and not always the most reliable. However, it’s your travels!

Be a Smart, Conscientious Traveler

Nothing takes the fun out of traveling like losing your belongings or falling prey to pickpockets. As is the case wherever you travel, keep an eye on your stuff and don’t flaunt what you got!

The Roman Forum, Colosseum and the Arch of Constantine

These three sites are in the same area and would be easy to knock out together in your one day in Rome. While taking a guided tour of this area will give you more insight into the history of these monuments, you can also purchase tickets to explore these sights on your own. Note that if you’re not part of a tour group, you will likely have to wait in a long line to enter. It depends on when you visit.

If you’re on a tight schedule to fit in as much as you can, then reading a brief history while viewing these monuments from the outside will do!

Pro Tip: If you plan on booking a guided tour of the Colosseum and Roman Forum , we advise you to book a tour in advance. There will be a lot of companies offering tours by the front entrance but you run the risk of getting a dry and dull guide that will make you fall asleep where you stand (been there, done that!). It’s best to find an informative and engaging tour guide and book them ahead of time!

Built around 70-80 AD, the Colosseum is one of the first things that pops into your head when you think of Rome. This architectural wonder held between 50,000 and 80,000 people in its heyday. Fun fact: it was built so that you could fill or empty the entire amphitheatre in 15 minutes thanks to the vomitoria (passageways that ran along the entire colosseum).

In its prime, spectators could see gladiatorial contests, animal hunts, battle reenactments, Roman mythological dramas and other public spectacles. In the medieval period, it was repurposed a few times but was ultimately damaged to the state we see it in today because of stone robbers and earthquakes.

The Roman Forum

This was the epicenter of day-to-day life in Rome and nestled within the small valley between the Palatine and Capitoline Hills. A Roman citizen could pursue commercial, political, judicial and religious activities within the many public buildings located in and around the Forum. They had triumphal processions, elections, public speeches, and trials but also temples, memorials, and a marketplace.

Arch of Constantine

This triumphal arch, located right outside the colosseum, was dedicated to Constantine the Great. It was built to commemorate his victory over Maxentius at the Battle of Milvian Bridge in the early 4th century AD.

The Arch of Constantine became one of the stops along the route that emperors and generals would lead their triumphal processions along. Some of the statues used on the Arch of Constantine came from monuments that had been dedicated to Trajan, Hadrian, and Marcus Aurelius.

San Pietro in Vincoli: View a Michelangelo Sculpture (for free!)

It wouldn’t be a day in Rome without seeing a little bit of art. Instead of paying to tour the Borghese Gallery or the Vatican (both are worth it but require a lot of time), stop inside San Pietro in Vincoli.

In the rear, right corner of this church, which is free to enter, you’ll find a large marble structure made by Michelangelo. It was commissioned by Pope Julius II in 1505 to be his tomb but wasn’t completed until 1545; it went through many redesigns over the years.

Originally, it was supposed to have around 40 sculpted figures but it was narrowed down to include just seven figures and a simpler overall design. On the lower level of the tomb, in the center, you’ll see the famous Horned Moses and in the center on the top is the virgin Mary holding the infant Christ and standing over Pope Julius II.

Spanish Steps

Connecting Piazza di Spagna with Piazza Trinità dei Monti, the Spanish steps are a must on any itinerary for Rome. These steps were constructed from 1723 to 1725 and are 135 steps from the bottom to the top where Trinità dei Monti church is located.

The steps were financed by the French diplomat Étienne Gueffier but are called “Spanish” because the Spanish Embassy to the Holy See was once located in Piazza di Spagna at the base of the steps.

From their beginning, they drew a crowd and it was a prime location to just sit, people watch or eat a bite but nowadays it is against the rules to sit on the steps (and there’s a hefty fine if you do).

Climb the steps and enjoy the view of the piazza below or spend a moment at their base to appreciate their history and architecture.

Trevi Fountain

Commissioned in the early 1600s, this amazing piece of art took well over a century to complete! While crowds flock throughout the day to get a picture, try to find a good spot to appreciate the details incorporated by the artists, like how some of the horses seem almost alive or how the fabric worn by the figures seems to be flowing.

You might recognize this famous fountain from the old film, Roman Holiday . It’s been featured in pop culture more than once, which only adds to its popularity!

Pro Tip: If you really want some alone time next to the fountain, try visiting near sunrise or after sunset. Everyone is trying to get a picture with the fountain as a backdrop so be prepared for the crowds!

Altare della Patria – Piazza Venezia

This magnificent piece of architecture is dedicated to Vittorio Emmanuele II, the king of a unified Italy in the 19th century. Here you can find the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and if you venture inside this free museum (we entered to get a break from the heat), you’ll find plenty of interesting military memorabilia, as well as history on previous flags and the unification of the country. A very cool stop on your walking tour!

To get a photo which captures this giant structure, you’ll likely have to walk further out into Piazza Venezia, which is a very busy hub for traffic, so stay in the pedestrian areas!

Not only is the Pantheon one of the coolest buildings left standing from ancient Rome, but it’s also free! That said, be prepared for a bit of a wait to get in. So many people visit here every day that a line is unavoidable. But don’t fret! They keep traffic flowing in and out at a steady pace.

When inside, take a gander up and appreciate the dome and its oculus (circular window). This building has been used since ancient times, first as a temple then as a cathedral. Famous Renaissance painter Raphael is buried here. This is a must-see for your one day in Rome itinerary!

Largo di Torre Argentina (Cat Sanctuary)

Here you will find the remains of ancient temples, as well as Pompey’s Theater. It’s also said that Julius Caesar was assassinated in this square.

Today, however, you’ll find the place run by cats. Yes, Largo di Torre Argentina is now a cat sanctuary by law, making these ancient ruins some of the most unique in the city!

St. Peter’s Basilica

St. Peter’s Basilica, located within Vatican City, is one of the largest churches in the world and is one of the holiest Catholic shrines. Built in the Renaissance style, many of it’s architectural designs were done by great artists, including Michelangelo. Better yet, it’s free to enter!

One thing to note: this church doesn’t have any paintings. But you’ll find tons of beautiful mosaics made with tesserae and Michelangelo’s famous Pietà!

Pro Tip: Check online for events before you go! There was a special event happening on the day we visited so we weren’t able to enter, which made us very sad! However, we still got to appreciate this gigantic architectural gem from the exterior.

Stroll Along the Tiber River

After you’re done at the basilica, take a mental break from all the history and detail by simply strolling along the Tiber River. You’ll find large trees for shade and less people, offering you a chance to refresh and relax. There is a ton to say about the Tiber, like its ties to the legend of Romulus and Remus, but you have to see it for yourself to truly experience it!

Mouth of Truth and Santa Maria in Cosmedin

Even though it’s popularity is through the roof, the Mouth of Truth’s original purpose is unknown. However, thanks in part to Roman Holiday (there it is again!), you’ll find a long line of visitors, waiting anxiously to put their hand in the mouth and get a picture. The saying goes that if you stick your hand in the Mouth of Truth and tell a lie, then you’ll lose your hand!

The Mouth of Truth can be found on the wall just outside of the Basilica of Santa Maria in Cosmedin. During our visit, it seemed that most visitors skipped the church and just waited in line for the Mouth of Truth. In our opinion, that’s a big mistake! We skipped the long line for photos and instead entered the church and admired its interior and impressive bell tower!

Arguably our favorite neighborhood in Rome, Trastevere, in all its Bohemian glory, is a great way to end a long day of sightseeing. You’ll find neat, narrow streets and some amazing cuisine. However, you most certainly cannot miss the Basilica of Santa Maria, which dates back to the 3rd century AD. You’ll find breathtaing mosaics and an awe-inspiring apse within!

We’re going to talk more about food soon but just note that Trastevere has a ton of delicious options and is a great dining alternative compared to the more central parts of Rome.

Bonus Sights to See:

We have just a couple special mentions which we also saw on our one day adventure but we didn’t include them above. They’re wroth seeing but it depends on how much more you’re willing to walk.

Note that both of these sights are near the Mouth of Truth. So if you’re in the vicinity and want to look around then here are some cool spots!

Circus Maximus (Near the Mouth of Truth)

This large, public park is where chariot races and other large events took place. Of course, a lot of time has passed since its prime and most of the ruins are buried. However, it’s a nice area and a lot of fun to walk around and imagine what it originally looked like!

Rome Rose Garden (Near the Mouth of Truth)

This lovely garden is where we went after the Mouth of Truth. We were truly looking for a spot to rest our legs and enjoy the garden. There wasn’t much in the way of seating but we found a nice shady spot in the grass.

There’s a fountain here where you can refill your water and there’s also a public restroom! And yes, it’s free to enter!

Some Food to Eat in Rome

Cacio e pepe.

This pasta dish is a Roman classic. Translation: cheese and pepper. It’s creamy, to die for, and usually served with bucatini pasta, a thicker version of spaghetti. If you eat nothing else in Rome (how sad that would be…) then try this!

Pecorino Romano

The perfect idea for a picnic? A bottle of wine, assorted Italian meats, and a block of pecorino Romano cheese. This cheese is made from sheeps milk in Lazio, the same region that Rome is located.

This pasta dish is one of our favorites and one that we cooked throughout our travels abroad. You can always find fresh pasta and pancetta in European groceries (and usually very cheap!). Egg, pork (pancetta or guanciale), pecorino romano, and pepper, all of these simple ingredients combine to make one memorable pasta.

Last but not least, gelato. A trip to Italy isn’t complete without this very popular dessert. Our go-to gelato spot is Giolitti, a central location (near the Pantheon) that serves as a great pit stop (or two) in between sightseeing. When in Rome …

Wrapping Up Your One Day in Rome: Self-Guided Walking Tour

This itinerary is packed and you may not be able to make it happen exactly like we did. However, we hope this has given you some idea of how you can navigate the city and have an amazing day in Rome. Whatever your itinerary looks like, have a great time!

Don’t forget to download our map !

Buon Viaggio!

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Where Food Takes Us

We’re Darah and Garrett. Our life has been an adventure ever since we eloped in a pink Cadillac in Las Vegas. Now we’re running around the world, working online, and eating everything we can.

Read more about us!

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Rome in One Day – The Best Rome 1-Day Itinerary (By A Local!)

Posted on Last updated: April 21, 2024

Are you planning a one day trip to Rome, but aren’t sure what to do? You’ve come to the right place!

In this one day Rome itinerary I have outlined everything you need to know to spend an incredible day in the Eternal City.

Including logistics advice like how to get around, where to stay, and what to pack, as well as a detailed step-by-step itinerary and walking route map for one day in Rome.

With its grand architecture, historic centre, ancient sites and delicious local cuisine, Rome is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world, and it’s easy to see why.

It’s a stunning city, with a rich history unlike any other in the world. I’m originally from Milan, but I spent some time living in Rome, so I had the pleasure of experiencing this city both as a tourist and as a local.

In this guide I have included all my insider tips as a local, to make sure you have the best time in Rome. So what are you waiting for, let’s dive in and start planning the perfect Rome 1-day itinerary!

• 1 One thing you MUST do before your day in Rome
• 2 Rome 1-day itinerary map
• 3.1 Start at the Colosseum & Roman Forum 
• 3.2 Pantheon
• 3.3 Trevi Fountain
• 3.4 Piazza di Spagna & Trinità dei Monti
• 3.5 Terrazza del Pincio
• 3.6 Piazza del Popolo
• 3.7 Castel Sant’Angelo
• 3.8 Vatican City
• 3.9 Trastevere by night
• 4.1 How to get to Rome
• 4.2 How to get around Rome in a day
• 4.3 Where to stay for one day in Rome
• 4.4 Best time to visit Rome 
• 4.5 Is one day in Rome enough?
• 4.6 Do you need travel insurance for one day in Rome?

The Trevi Fountain in Rome, Italy

Essentials to book before you read on!

Best tours in Rome

Colosseum, Roman Forum, Palatine Hill Priority Tickets

Vatican Museum and Sistine Chapel Tour

Guided Food Tour in Trastevere

Best hotels in Rome

Budget: YellowSquare Rome

Mid-range: Albergo Abruzzi

Luxury: Giallo Colosseo  

Get 5% off your travel insurance here!

One thing you MUST do before your day in Rome

Rome is one of the most famous destinations in the world, featuring on pretty much everyone’s travel bucket list. As such, it gets very busy and the queues to enter its main attractions can be huge.

When I was living in Rome I’d walk past the Colosseum or Vatican, and I would see such gigantic queues that it always made me wonder how people ever decided to brave them.

Considering you have limited time and only one day in Rome, you don’t want to waste it queueing outside. If you want to visit the inside of famous attractions, you HAVE to purchase tickets online beforehand.

Check out popular Rome tours below!

Exploring Piazza Navona in Rome

Ticket prices are a bit higher for skip-the-line privileges, but trust me when I say, it will be well worth the investment. Here are the entrance tickets to some of the most popular Rome attractions.

Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel Skip-the-Ticket-Line Entry   – This is your priority entrance to the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel, so that you can skip the giant queue outside.

Skip the line, and purchase your Vatican Museum & Sistine Chapel entrance here!

Vatican Museum and Sistine Chapel: Tour – Personally, I would go beyond the skip-the-line entrance and choose a guided tour, as having a local guide explain to you what you’re seeing is key to understanding this unique place.

Click here to book your Vatican Museum & Sistine Chapel tour!

Rome: Colosseum, Roman Forum, Palatine Hill Priority Tickets – You don’t want to spend hours queueing under the sun, so make sure to purchase priority tickets to the Colosseum!

Click here to book your Colosseum tickets and skip the line!

View over the Roman Forum and the Colosseum from the Campidoglio

The famous Altare della Patria in Rome

Rome 1-day itinerary map

We’ve gone over all the key knowledge you need for your day in Rome, so it’s time to finally dive into what you’ll actually be doing during your Rome itinerary! 

Here is the map of your Rome 1-day itinerary walking route. As you can see, the total walking time is just over two hours, which is easily doable throughout a day.

It gives you plenty of time to stop during the day for photos, to go inside major attractions, to take food and drinks breaks and just generally enjoy your day in Rome.

Now let’s dive into the details of what exactly you’ll be seeing!

Rome 1-day itinerary

Start at the colosseum & roman forum  .

Of all the things to do in Rome in one day, seeing the Colosseum and the Roman Forum have to be top of your Italy bucket list .  

For starters, it’s convenient: the Colosseum ticket allows access to the Roman Forum (and vice versa) so it makes sense to visit both to get the most out of your visit.  

Secondly, they’re right next to each other, so you won’t have to travel far between these two big-hitter sights.

I highly recommend getting a skip the line ticket for the Colosseum , which will also get you the same skip the line access to the nearby Roman Forum. 

Chilling by the Colosseum in Rome

I spent a few months living in Rome, and every time I walked past the Colosseum there was a really long line. If you only have one day in Rome, you don’t want to spend it queueing.

One tip is to make sure you book your tickets to the Colosseum for an early time slot, so that you can pack the most into your day as possible.

Plus the crowds tend to be slightly smaller early in the day, and you don’t want to waste your day waiting.  

Click here to book your skip-the-line entrance to the Colosseum & Roman Forum!

Or click below to see prices & availability!

Admiring the view over the Fori Romani in Rome

Then it’s onto the famous Pantheon. This is around a 20-minute walk from the Colosseum, or you could hop on a bus (route 85; around 10-15 minutes) to get you there quicker.

I personally recommend the walk, as it will take you past Via Dei Fori Imperiali and the Altare della Patria, two beautiful sights in the heart of Rome.

Your own curated Rome-in-one-day tour stops by the Pantheon, a former ancient temple dedicated to all the Roman gods turned church.  

The original was commissioned by Marcus Agrippa in the reign of Augustus (27 BC to 14 AD). It was later rebuilt by Hadrian around 126 AD.

Take a moment to admire the impressive dome – it’s still to this day the world’s largest unreinforced concrete dome! No entrance fee required.

The Pantheon in Rome, Italy

Trevi Fountain

You can’t do a one day in Rome walking tour without stopping by the Trevi Fountain.

It’s an easy eight-minute walk from the Pantheon to the iconic fountain, which will no doubt be busy with visitors, but is nonetheless atmospheric and impressive to see.  

Take your iconic Rome Instagram photos of the gorgeous 18th century Baroque fountain, and don’t forget to throw a coin in (over your shoulder, of course), as is the custom.

Legend has it that if you throw a coin in the Trevi Fountain, you’ll come back to Rome in the future. Every Rome itinerary should include a trip to the Trevi Fountain, and you don’t have to spend long there, either.

The beautiful facade of the Trevi fountain in Rome

Piazza di Spagna & Trinità dei Monti

Piazza di Spagna is another eight-minute stroll from the Trevi Fountain. It’s one of the most famous piazzas in the city, taking its name from the Spanish embassy which is still located in the square.  

It’s also here that you’ll find the Spanish Steps, a famed meeting point which leads to the Trinità dei Monti church at the top.

This picturesque Renaissance church overlooks the goings-on of the piazza below – and, by a quirk of history, it’s actually the state property of France!

Wandering up the famous Spanish Steps towards Trinità dei Monti in Rome

Terrazza del Pincio

Otherwise known as Pincian Terrace, your one day in Rome itinerary wouldn’t be complete without an awesome view over the Roman skyline . It takes around 10 minutes to reach from Trinità dei Monti.  

Part of the sprawling gardens of the Villa Borghese, the 19th century hillside terrace looks out over the rooftops of Rome including the unmistakable dome of St Peter’s Basilica.

If you have spare time, you can spend a while strolling around the park, otherwise it’s onwards to Piazza del Popolo below (you can actually see it from the terrace).

One of the best views over Rome from Villa Borghese

Piazza del Popolo

Next stop on your Rome itinerary, is Piazza del Popolo. Though the name translates to “People’s Square”, the name is actually taken from the nearby Santa Maria del Popolo.

This wide-open space has a number of different interesting sights to take in, including an ancient Egyptian obelisk (it dates from between 1290 to 1279 BC !), a grand gate designed by architect Gian Lorenzo Bernini and fountains fed by centuries-old aqueducts.  

For many years, the piazza was a place of public executions, the last of which took place in 1826.

You’ll get here by late afternoon, and this might be the perfect place to stop for a bite to eat, or just rest your feet for a while, grab a coffee and do a spot of people-watching.

View over Piazza del Popolo and Rome from Terrazza del Pincio

Castel Sant’Angelo

If you feel like walking, it’s 20 minutes from Piazza del Popolo to Castel Sant’Angelo; it’s a pretty cool walk, as you’ll walk along Tiber River and get to cross over Ponte Sant’Angelo with its many angelic statues.  

The castle tells the tale of Rome from its ancient past to the present day – from being built as the mausoleum for Emperor Hadrian and his family in 123-4 AD, being pillaged by Visigoths, and used as a fortress for the Popes from the 14th century onwards.  

There’s even a secret passageway leading from the Castel Sant’Angelo all the way through the city to St Peter’s Basilica.

Sadly if you’re only spending one day in Rome, you won’t have time to go in, but it’s still an impressive building to admire from the outside.

Castel Sant’Angelo & Ponte Sant’Angelo in Rome, Italy

Vatican City

Of all the places to visit in Rome in one day, the Vatican City should definitely be on the list – after all, this is a whole other country to visit! It’s around a 15-minute walk from Castel Sant’Angelo to the Vatican.  

As I already mentioned, you won’t have time to visit the interior of both the Colosseum and Vatican in one day. However, that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t at least admire them from the outside!

If you chose to visit the Colosseum, you can simply visit St. Peter’s Square, a pretty impressive sight in and of itself. You can wander around the square for a bit, and take in the unique sights.

There’s yet another ancient Egyptian obelisk here, not to mention the imposing facade of St. Peter’s Basilica: the centre of the Catholic Church.

If you chose to visit the Vatican, its museums and the Sistine Chapel, you’ll need to purchase a ticket online beforehand . Similarly to the Colosseum, you can get a skip-the-line entry, which I think is well worth the money.

Click here to purchase your skip-the-line ticket to the Vatican & Sistine Chapel!

Or click below to see prices & availability for your chosen dates!

The Basilica di San Pietro and main square of the Vatican in Rome

Trastevere by night

After your trip to the Vatican City, you simply have to finish up your Rome one day itinerary in Trastevere.

This is simply a lovely neighbourhood to discover by night, with cobbled streets and lots of cool eateries and bars to discover.  

Especially if you’re visiting Rome in summer , start off with an aperitivo and unwind after your busy day of exploring. Then you can head off for some dinner at one of the many restaurants in the district.

The vibrant Piazza Trilussa, in front of Ponte Sisto, is a meeting place for locals where warm evenings bring crowds and live music, and is a great place to start your night in Rome .

This is also where many Rome by night tours start, like the delicious cooking classes or street food tours.

A delicious plate of fresh pasta from Osteria da Fortunata in Rome, Italy

Check out the web story for this article here!

Essential information to spend one amazing day in Rome

Before we dive into the details of my step-by-step itinerary for Rome, I want to go over some useful information around logistics to help you plan your trip.

After all, you only have one day in Rome, so it’s important that you know some of these crucial tips, to make sure you make the most of your day.

How to get to Rome

Rome has two main airports, Leonardo da Vinci International Airport – Fiumicino (FCO) and Ciampino (CIA). From there you can then take either a train or bus into central Rome.

Wandering along the cute cobbled streets of Rome, Italy

Trains can be booked online beforehand on the Italian rail website; Trenitalia , or directly at the station from the kiosk. Bus tickets can be bought directly at the bus, or online beforehand. 

Personally, I always suggest booking your airport transfer beforehand, especially if you’re visiting in busy season, as they can get full pretty quickly, and if you miss it you then have to wait for the next one.

You’re only in Rome for one day, so you want to make the most of them! Not waste time waiting around before you even get into the city. You can book your airport bus transfers below.

Shuttle bus transfer to/from Fiumicino Airport

Shuttle bus transfer to/from Ciampino Airport

Private transfer to either Ciampino or Fiumicino Airport

Watching the sunset over the Vatican and Ponte Sant’Angelo from Ponte Umberto in Rome

How to get around Rome in a day

Rome is pretty big city, but when it comes to the main attractions and historical sights, these are all located close to each other in the city centre, just a short walk away.

I’m a big fan of walking as a mode of transport when I travel, as it allows you to see the side streets and true vibe of a city, way more than you would just driving from one attraction to the next.

This Rome 1-day itinerary is designed to cover all the main highlights of Rome on foot, optimising your walking route, so that you don’t end up marching back and forth all over the city.

If you don’t fancy walking for too long, don’t worry, as Rome offers plenty of options.

Walking along Ponte Sant’ Angelo in Rome, with Castel Sant’ Angelo in the background

My personal favourite way to get around Rome is to use e-scooters, such as Lime. I lived in Rome for months and used them all the time, you’ll find loads parked all the city and they’re great for short distances.

Just watch out for Rome’s cobbled lanes – you’ll be in for a pretty bumpy ride if you take a scooter along one of these!

If you can drive a motorbike, there is also a scooter sharing service called eCooltra, which is a more “serious” way to get around, and you can also go further than with e-scooters.

Rome’s also has a good public transport system, which takes you pretty everywhere around the city. You’ll also find taxis parked all over central Rome.

Scootering around Rome – that’s the Colosseum behind us!

Where to stay for one day in Rome

Even if you’re only spending one day in Rome, you’ll probably have to spend a night in Rome, either before or after your itinerary.

Choosing where to stay in Rome can be challenging. Personally I would opt for a hotel near the Colosseum , or near the Pantheon , so that you’re close to all the main attractions of Rome.

Having lived in Rome on and off, I tried my fair share of apartment rentals in Rome , and can confidently suggest some over others. I listed below some cool places to stay for every budget.

Budget: YellowSquare Rome – If you’re looking for a budget Rome hostel in a great position, with clean and modern dorms and a lovely social atmosphere, this is the place!

Click here to see the latest prices and availability at YellowSquare Rome!

Mid-range: Albergo Abruzzi – This lovely boutique hotel in Rome is perfect if you want something nice that won’t break the bank. Located right next to the Pantheon, it’s in a winning position.

Click here to see the latest prices and availability at Albergo Abruzzi!

Luxury: Giallo Colosseo  –  If your Italy trip budget allows for it, this is a great place to treat yourself. From this apartment you get amazing Colosseum views directly from your bed, what more can you ask for?!

Don’t miss out, book your stay at Giallo Colosseo here!

The Colosseum view from the window of Giallo Colosseo in Rome

The bedroom with Colosseum view of Giallo Colosseo

Best time to visit Rome 

In my opinion, you could visit Rome at any time of the year and have a great time. Being a city, pretty much all the attractions and main sights are visible every month, regardless of the season.

That said, there are some seasons which will make your one day in Rome more pleasant. Spring in Rome is my favourite time of year.

The days are getting warmer and longer, the flowers are blooming, and Rome isn’t inundated by tourists like in summer. If you visit Italy in summer , I wouldn’t personally go to Rome, as it gets extremely hot.

I also really like Rome in winter , as the weather is milder than other places in Italy in winter , and you can do pretty much everything you would do in spring or summer, minus the huge tourist crowds and with a cheaper price tag.

The beautiful Trevi fountain in Rome

Is one day in Rome enough?

When it comes to planning a Rome 1-day itinerary, this is the million dollar question. Locals will argue that no amount of time will ever be enough to really see a city, especially not one day.

However, having lived in Rome and having also visited as a tourist, I can confidently say that one day in Rome is enough to walk around the city, see the main sights from outside, get a feel for the Roman vibe, and visit the interior of one main attraction.

Realistically, one day isn’t enough to visit both the Vatican and the Colosseum. Not if you also want to wander around the city, see other sights like the Trevi Fountain, and in general spend an enjoyable day.

I’ve seen itineraries online saying you can do both, if you start your day at 7AM and then keep going until nightfall.

While it might be technically possible, do you really want to rush and pack your day in Rome that much?

Personally, I suggest choosing one or the other, so that you can have a more relaxed day. If you want to visit both, you will have to extend your Italy itinerary , and spend more days in Rome ; at least two days in Rome , if not three .

The Colosseum in Rome at sunset

Sunset over the rooftops of Rome

Do you need travel insurance for one day in Rome?

After my personal experience spending two nights in a private hospital in Tenerife, and having to pay for it out of pocket (it wasn’t cheap), I always recommend getting travel insurance .

You might not end up needing it, but for a small fee you can travel without worries. Personally, I suggest getting your Italy travel insurance with  Heymondo .

Heymondo offers tailor made travel insurance, providing the best value for money for your specific trip. You can also buy it once you’re already abroad and have forgotten about it before flying (which, if you’re anything like me, is quite likely).

Besides the usual cancellation, medical expenses, luggage coverage and general travel insurance services, Heymondo also has a 24/7 doctor chat and instant assistance through their app.

As a Greta’s Travels reader, you get 5% off your Heymondo travel insurance !

Click here to get your 5% off Heymondo travel insurance!

Exploring the Pantheon in Rome

Final thoughts on 1 day in Rome

There you have it, the ultimate best itinerary for one day in Rome! Have you been to Rome before? How did you find it? Let me know in the comments below!

In my personal opinion, having lived in Rome, this is the best way to visit Rome in one day.

This itinerary will allow you to see the famous sights of the Roman Empire and of ancient Rome, as well as enjoying the beautiful architecture and local vibe.

Rome is a city like no other. There’s lots to see, but by the end of this full day exploring it, you’ll have a pretty good idea of what the Eternal City is all about.

Some travellers base themselves in Rome, and from there then go on a day trip to Pompeii or even Capri , but I wouldn’t recommend that. Amalfi Coast is quite far, so stay in Amalfi Coast instead, so that you can properly experience Positano , hike the Path of the Gods , go on boat trips and more! and its beautiful surroundings.

I hope you have found this Rome in 1 day itinerary useful in planning your time in Rome, as well as your Italy itinerary . If you have any questions, just let me know in the comments below!

Enjoyed reading about the best places to visit in Rome in 1 day? Pin it!

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How to do a Self-Guided Walking Tour of Rome: 2 hours

Sean Finelli Last Updated: November 18, 2022

If you don’t have tons of time to spend in Rome, you should still knock out the city’s main sites. Here’s how to do a quick DIY walking tour of Rome featuring Il Pincio, Piazza del Popolo, the Spanish Steps, Piazza Navona, Trevi Fountain, and Pantheon. So, enjoy Rome with this walking tour itinerary and maps.

DIY Walking Tour of Rome Itinerary

This itinerary covers the major spots in Rome that you can see without a guided tour. We’ll guide you from location to location, giving you options that will help you have a personalised experience of Rome. Read on to find the routes with bustling streets, great views, or ways to conserve energy.

If you’re planning to see the Vatican and Colosseum, we highly recommend our Rome in a Day Tour that not only includes the sites mentioned below but also gets you skip-the-line access to the Vatican and Colosseum.

Start this walking tour at either Piazza Navona or Il Pincio / Piazza del Popolo. I highly recommend taking a taxi to Il Pincio, which is in Villa Borghese over top of Piazza del Popolo. You can walk there or get pretty close by metro, but we recommend getting a taxi up to the top so you can walk downhill for the rest of this journey. Trust us, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to exercise in Rome, so conserve your energy wherever you can. Here’s your self-guided itinerary:

• Il Pincio and Piazza del Popolo
• The Spanish Steps,  Piazza di Spagna, and Via Condotti
• The Trevi Fountain
• The Pantheon
• Piazza Navona

Distance:  1.5 miles (2.5km)

Walking Time :  30 minutes

Total Duration:   90 minutes to 2 hours

1. Il Pincio and Piazza del Popolo

Terrazza del Pincio is one of those places you see all over social media but can’t actually find when visiting Rome. Good news, we’ve got you covered, and it’s actually very easy to get to. Go to Piazza del Popolo  (Piazza of the People) and look for the big hill. Hidden behind the street leading up the hill is a staircase going up to Il Pincio.

Il Pincio is on the outskirts of Villa Borghese. You can start in Villa Borghese and make your way down to Piazza del Popolo or the opposite. Piazza del Popolo is a 10-minute walk from the Spanish Steps, from there it’s 10 minutes to Trevi Fountain, another 10 minutes to the Pantheon, which is 10 minutes from Piazza Navona, and so on. While you’re in the area, check out the top things to see near Piazza del Popolo .

2. Spanish Steps

From Pincio to the Spanish Steps, you have two options. The first is to walk down from Il Pincio into Piazza del Popolo. This is the best option if you want to walk through Rome’s bustling streets.

Your second option is to walk down viale della Trinità dei Monti. This road is situated above the neighborhood and slowly slopes downward. You get a great view of the area without the crowds. Take a peek into the terraces of the Roman elite and, best of all, you’ll arrive at the top of the Spanish Steps. 

As you approach the Spanish Steps , you’ll notice that you’re walking into Rome’s posh shopping district lined with high-end designers and brands. You’ll come to a large staircase leading up to the Trinita dei Monti church. 

So why are they called the Spanish Steps if we’re in Italy? The Spanish Steps aren’t actually Spanish at all. They got their name because the Spanish Embassy to the Holy See is located at the base of the steps.

The official name of the steps is actually Scalinata dei Trinita dei Monti. At the base of the steps, you’ll find another one of Rome’s beautiful fountains, Fontana della Barcaccia, or Fountain of the Longboat.

If you take time to explore the area, you might notice the Keats-Shelley House, located right at the foot of the Steps. This museum commemorates iconic English romantic poets Jonathan Keats and Percy Bysshe Shelley, and houses countless poems, manuscripts, and other works by these authors. Check out the top things to see near the Spanish Steps .

3. Trevi Fountain

Above, you’ll see a map of the route we suggest taking from the Spanish Steps to the Trevi Fountain, which should take about 10 minutes. When you reach Piazza di Trevi, you’ll probably notice a large crowd of people taking the classic coin throw picture in front of the fountain.

Built in 1762 and designed by Nicola Salvi, Trevi Fountain or Fontana di Trevi translates to “Three Street Fountain.” Quite literally, the fountain is located where three roads meet and what used to be the end point of one of Rome’s earliest aqueducts.

The fountain depicts ancient Greek god Oceanus on a chariot being pulled by two horses. One is obedient and one is resistant, symbolizing the changing tides of the ocean.

Legend has it that if you throw a coin into the fountain with your right hand over your left shoulder, you will return to Rome again. If you throw two, you’ll soon have a new romance in your life. And if you throw three, you’re guaranteed to get married. Since you’re here, check out the top things to see near Trevi Fountain .

4. Pantheon

You can follow this simple route to reach the Pantheon, which is about a seven-minute walk away.

The Pantheon is typically considered Rome’s most well-preserved ancient building. This makes sense since the first two structures that stood in the Pantheon’s place were destroyed—one by the Great Fire of Rome and the other by lightning. When Emperor Hadrian built the third, he made sure it was extremely structurally sound.

We definitely recommend going inside the Pantheon to explore its beautiful rotunda. If you look up, you’ll notice an opening in the ceiling allowing sunlight in called the oculus.

The Pantheon is free to enter, and there is plenty to see inside. After exploring its Greco-Roman architecture from the outside, make sure you see Raphael’s tomb when you enter. If you have time, check out the top things to see near the Pantheon .

5. Piazza Navona

After exploring the Pantheon, walk four minutes away using this route to explore Piazza Navona.

The Piazza Navona is an incredibly beautiful square in the center of Rome lined by delicious eateries and shops. It sits on top of what used to be the Stadium of Domitian, where gladiatorial games and public executions used to take place in ancient Rome. 

Built around A.D. 80, the Stadium of Domitian even served as a replacement venue for the Colosseum when it was struck by lightning in A.D. 217. The restaurants and storefronts that line the Piazza Navona today still preserve the shape of the ancient running track and all of the buildings surrounding the piazza were built atop the stadium’s seating.

In the center of the Piazza Navona, you’ll notice a large obelisk with ancient hieroglyphs inscribed on its stone. Although originally located in Circus Maxentius, the obelisk now stands atop the Fountain of Four Rivers and features inscriptions that mention Emperor Domitian. Discover the top things to see near Piazza Navona .

By now, you’ll have worked up quite an appetite.

Finish With A Trastevere Food Tour

There’s really no better way to end your DIY walking tour of Rome than with a great meal! While there are plenty of restaurants and bars lining the piazza, we recommend joining our Trastevere Food Tour .

It meets just a few minutes away from Piazza Navona and features fantastic Rome street food and a traditional sit-down dinner, giving you a culinary experience that offers a more local take on the city’s cuisine.

Not ready to book a tour? Check out our guide to all things Rome as you plan your trip.

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Introducing the Perfect One-Day Walking Tour of Rome

Forget the old cliché of Rome not being built in a day. If you’ve only got a day to spare, you can absolutely see the best of Rome. Unlike other European capitals, Rome has a touristic area that's fairly compact and most of it can be covered on a stroll. 

To take this self-guided tour of the city's top attractions, you'll need to get an early start on the day, you'll need to be okay with covering a lot of ground (though we'll take frequent breaks to refuel with pizza or gelato), and you'll have to content yourself with some atmosphere and a quick photo op. Alas, there’s no time budgeted for tours of the  Colosseum ,  St. Peter’s Basilica , or the Vatican Museums —but we'll go past all of them. If you have a limited amount of time and one of those sights is a must-see, figure on working it into the beginning or end of your day.  With that, fill up your water bottle, grab your map or smartphone, and we’ll meet you at . . . 

Whether you’re seeing it for the first time or the fiftieth, the Colosseum never fails to elicit awe. It’s such an iconic part of the city that it’s the very symbol of Rome. Built over an artificial lake that was once part of the Domus Aurea, the vast palace of despotic Emperor Nero, construction began on the Flavian Amphitheatre, or Colosseum, around 70 A.D. and was completed by 80 or 81 A.D. The 4-level amphitheater could hold up to 80,000 people, who came for blood sports in the form of gladiatorial matches, mock naval battles, and wild animal fights and hunts. Fire, earthquakes, and the pilfering of materials has left the Colosseum an asymmetrical shell of its former self, but it still impresses with its sheer size and dark history of wanton bloodshed and violence.  Make a complete loop around the outside of the structure, passing the Arch of Constantine , dedicated in 315 A.D. to Rome’s first Christian emperor. Then head up Via dei Fori Imperiali, staying to the left-hand side of the street.

When Mussolini ordered the construction of Via dei Fori Imperiali, the triumphant avenue that was built in honor of Adolf Hitler’s visit to Rome in 1938, it meant plowing a wide swath of destruction through the Imperial Forums , which were once a somewhat cohesive complex. They now lay divided on either side (and underneath) the wide avenue. Start on the left-hand side, passing the massive hulk of the Basilica of Maxentius (in Ancient Rome, a basilica was a courthouse or public assembly hall). Walk as far as the Forum of Caesar, then cross the street to take in the cluster of monuments and buildings commissioned by Emperor Trajan (ruled 98 to 117 AD), including Trajan’s Forum and the semicircular Trajan’s Market  (pictured above), which once functioned like an ancient shopping mall. You can’t miss Trajan’s Column, the 115-foot (35-meter) cylindrical column built to commemorate and illustrate the emperor’s victory in the Dacian Wars (in what is now Romania).

After craning your neck at the column, cross the street again to take in the waaaay over-the-top…

Completed in 1925, Il Vittoriano was built with several functions in mind: to honor Vittorio Emanuele II, the first king of united Italy, to memorialize Italian soldiers killed in World War I, and to serve as the Altare della Patria (Altar of the Fatherland), a massive physical monument to help ground a fledgling nation. It's massive, garish, and meant to overwhelm. Its local nicknames liken it to a wedding cake, a typewriter, and a set of false teeth. In other words, it’s not Rome’s best-loved monument. But it’s a landmark nonetheless, and a transportation hub if you’re catching buses to just about anywhere in the city.  From the Vittoriano side of the street, wind around the monument, passing a steep set of stairs. You’ll then head up the Cordonata, the wide, sloping stairs (designed so horses could navigate them) that lead up to…

At the top of the stairs, you’re standing on a piazza designed by Michelangelo and flanked by two palaces—now both part of the Capitoline Museums , also designed by the Renaissance master. A bronze statue of Marcus Aurelius on horseback is a reproduction of the original (now inside the museum). The Capitoline Hill itself—one of the legendary seven hills of Rome—has played an integral role in the city’s development as far back at the 8th century B.C.

The stately ocher and marble palace ahead of you is the Rome City Hall. Walk around the left side of it for a sweeping view of the ruins of the Roman Forum . The 203 A.D. Arch of Septimius Servius is directly in front of you. To the right of it sprawl the ruins of the Basilica Julia, The House of the Vestal Virgins, and further on, the rise of the Palatine Hill. 

For another view of the Forum and a closer look at the Palatine, walk back around City Hall and off to its right. Then head back down the Cordonata, cross the street, and take a left until you see…

It looks a lot like the Colosseum, and that’s because that infinitely more famous landmark was modeled on this theater intended for dramatic performances, which was initiated by Julius Caesar but not completed until 13 A.D., more than 30 years after his assassination. Its arched façade and network of tunnels and ramps served as the archetype for Roman performance spaces and arenas throughout the Empire. In the Middle Ages and Renaissance, palaces were built over the theater ruins—they’re now some of the city’s priciest real estate. Passing to the right of the theater, you’ll come upon the Portico of Ottavia on your right, with its partial temple façade, medieval additions, and an 8th-century church behind it. This is also the entrance to…

The mostly pedestrian Via del Portico d'Ottavia runs through the Roman Ghetto , where Rome’s Jewish population was forced to live following a papal decree in 1555. The quarter was locked at night, and its residents lived in squalid conditions. It wasn’t until 1870 that the walls came down and Jews were granted full citizenship. When the Nazis occupied Rome in 1943, more than 2,000 Roman Jews were deported, most to Auschwitz in Poland. Only a handful would return. Today, the ghetto is known for restaurants and bakeries serving traditional Roman-Jewish fare. Take a right on windy Via di S. Ambrogio, and walk until you come to the whimsical Fontana delle Tartarughe (The Turtle Fountain), which once supplied drinking water to the ghetto.  Continue on Via Paganica, cross Via delle Botteghe Oscura, and you’ll gaze down at the jumble of ruins that is…

With trams, buses, cars, and scooters buzzing around it day and night, the Largo di Torre Argentina really exemplifies how the ancient exists among the modern in Rome, and how the city is built on layers and layers of history. The ruins of four temples, the oldest dating to the 4th century BC, are laid out in a row along a street paved with large, smooth travertine stone. The temples abut remnants of the Theatre of Pompey where, on March 15 (the Ides of March), 44 B.C., Julius Caesar was assassinated. You may not be gazing at the very spot where the fateful stabbing took place, but archaeologists believe it happened in or near this square block. And those lazy cats basking in the sun on the ruins? They’re residents of a sanctuary for strays. You can even arrange to adopt one if you’d like. Walk around three sides of the Largo, and follow the tram tracks along Via Arenula. Make a right at Piazza Benedetto Cairoli, which turns into Via dei Giubbonari. Do some window-shopping until the street opens…

Colorful and chaotic, Rome’s most photographed produce market was once the site of public executions. So in that sense, it’s a bit safer now than it used to be, especially if you’re a philosopher or a heretic. Every morning from Monday to Saturday, the Campo fills with stalls selling gorgeously displayed fruit and vegetables, spices, cheese, charcuterie, and fresh juice. In the evenings, after the stalls have packed it up, the piazza is lined with restaurants of every quality, all with patio dining. Campo is a great place for people-watching, but do watch your purse or wallet while you’re here. Exit the piazza at Via Dei Baullari, and follow it to busy Corso Vittorio Emanuele II. Cross the street at the crosswalk, then continue briefly down narrow Via della Cuccagna, which opens onto majestic...

This grand piazza, lined with elegant palazzos (now mostly pricey vacation rentals), follows the oval shape of the 1st-century A.D. Stadium of Domitian, over which it was built. It’s dominated by Bernini’s Fountain of the Four Rivers, known to many as a pivotal location in Dan Brown’s Angels & Demons . Day and night, Piazza Navona is lined with overpriced restaurants—but with views that are hard to top—and teems with unlicensed souvenir vendors, mimes, and other street performers.  Exit the piazza due east on Via del Salvatore, which becomes Via Giustiniani, which opens onto Piazza del Rotunda and…  

Nothing beats the wow factor of stumbling out of a dark centro storico alley, turning to the south end of Piazza della Rotunda and setting sights on the Pantheon . The original Pantheon was built at the beginning of the 1st century AD; the current building was completed by Emperor Hadrian around 126 AD. Do go inside here, as it’s free and there’s never a line. You’re now standing in a perfect sphere resting on a cylinder, which supports the world’s largest unreinforced concrete dome (pictured above). Gaze up to the nearly 26-foot (7.8m)-wide oculus, the building’s only source of natural light. The tomb of King Vittorio Emanuele II is here, as is that of Renaissance painter Raphael. 

From the northeast corner of Piazza della Rotunda, head east on Via dei Pastini, which becomes Via di Pietra before ending at Via del Corso. Cross Corso and continue on Via delle Muratte until you come to…

A relatively new kid on the very old block, this famous Baroque waterwork was started in 1732 and completed 30 years later. The water that pours from it comes from an ancient source—the Acqua Vergine, a 1st-century AD aqueduct that still transports clean drinking water into the city. It’s customary to throw a coin into the Trevi by tossing it with your right hand over your left shoulder—this is said to guarantee that you’ll return to Rome. To the right of the fountain, walk along Via della Stamperia until it crosses Via del Tritone. Make a short diagonal jog on Via del Nazareno, then go right on Via di Sant'Andrea delle Fratte, which becomes Via di Propoganda before opening onto…

Completed in 1725, the 138 steps leading from the Spanish Embassy up to the Church of Trinità dei Monti are not that noteworthy from a historical point of view, but they sure are pretty to look at. At the foot of the stairs is the Baroque, boat-shaped Fontana della Barcaccia (Fountain of the Ugly Boat). Its water is said to be the sweetest in Rome; walk out on one of the two little stone platforms on either end of the fountain to have a sip or refill your water bottle.  From the Spanish Steps, head north on Via del Babuino, and take a left on Via Vittoria, which becomes Via del Pontifici when it crosses Corso. Soon on your left you’ll see the hulking mass of…

Subject to centuries of decay and closed to the public for decades, the circular mausoleum was once clad in marble and held the funerary urns of Emperor Augustus and several other emperors and noble family members. Across the street is the Museo dell'Ara Pacis , a sleek, ultramodern building that houses the Altar of Peace (pictured above). The elaborate stone altar frieze established the Julio-Claudian dynasty’s blood links to the founding of Rome, and to the gods themselves. The museum is interesting if you have time, but you can get a good look at the altar from outside, too. 

From the west side of the museum, walk south along the shady Lungotevere Marzio as it curves and becomes Lungotevere Tor di Nona. Cross the river on sculpture-lined Ponte Sant’Angelo to…

For an idea of what the Mausoleum of Augustus might have looked like in its prime, cast your eyes on Castel Sant’Angelo , which had its origins as the 2nd-century AD Mausoleum of Hadrian. It was later used as a castle, a fortress, and a prison, as well as a hideaway for papal trysts. To the left of the castle, take note of the Passetto di Borgo, a raised, covered passageway that let popes travel from the Vatican to the fortress unseen, either to escape an invading army or for a clandestine meeting with a paramour. On top of the castle is a bronze statue of the Archangel Michael, for whom the castle is named. Puccini’s operatic heroine Tosca leaped to her death from its ramparts. From the left of the castle, head along wide Via della Conciliazione. There’s no missing your final stop on this tour…

You’ll need an awfully wide-angled lens to capture the scale of one of the most majestic and sacred sites in all of Christendom. There’s been a church here since the 300s, but what stands today is a triumph of Renaissance architecture, capped by Michelangelo’s dome . Bernini’s circular, columned piazza was completed in 1667, at the height of the Baroque craze. It’s dominated by an Egyptian obelisk that was already in place when the area was the 1st-century AD Circus of Nero, the site of Roman games and executions, including that of Peter. Fountains to either side of the obelisk complete the symmetry, as do the 140 statues of saints that line the top of the piazza. If you want to send a postcard postmarked and stamped from the world’s tiniest independent state, the Vatican post office is on the left-hand side of the piazza. And with that, your whirlwind walking tour is complete! At the foot of the piazza you’ll find a taxi stand—we say you’ve earned a ride back to your hotel. You’re also not far from the Ottaviano Metro stop, or walk back to Borgo Pio (next to Castel Sant’Angelo) for bus connections to central Rome.

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Walking Tours in Rome

Rome isn’t a big city, and walking is by far the best way to see it. Finding ancient remains nestled between shops, pieces of ancient statues decorating the sidewalk, and churches filled with mosaics and artistic masterpieces is part of the Rome experience that can only be enjoyed walking through the Eternal City.

Is Rome a Walkable City?

Rome wasn’t designed for cars, but it’s perfect for walking. From Piazza Venezia , the Colosseum , Pantheon , Spanish Steps , Trevi Fountain , Piazza Navona , Campo dè Fiori , and the Jewish Ghetto are all less than 20 minutes away on foot, meaning you can see a lot in a day at a leisurely pace.

Summer in Rome can be hot, so be careful, especially in July and August when temperatures are often around 100°F/38°C. Rome has a lot of wide streets, open squares, and archaeological parks that offer little shade during the heat of the day.

Try to start early, stay inside during the hottest part of the day, and come out again in the evening when the city is cooling down like the locals do. 

Conclusion: Rome is a walkable city if you are used to walking and avoid walking when the sun is hot.

Is it Worth Doing Guided Walking Tours in Rome?

With more than 2000 years of emperors and popes to get your head around, not to mention the artists and aristocracy who have lived in Rome, taking a guided tour can help you make sense of what you are seeing and prevent information overload.

Tour operators also have access to exciting options that are not available to the general public, like the chance to be the first to enter the Sistine Chapel in the morning or visit the Vatican Museums after hours.

But you don’t need a guide for every place. Rome is beautiful even if you don’t know the history of what you are seeing, and some places, like the catacombs and the Domus Aurea, can only be visited with their guides, so the tour is included in the ticket price.

Conclusion: Guided tours can give you exclusive access to some locations and help you to focus on the most important details at the most popular sites, but there’s also a lot you can see on your own.

How do Guided Tours Compare to Self-Guided or Free Walking Tours?

If you want to keep costs low, many places in Rome are easy to visit on your own with a guidebook. Get a map and plan a themed route, for example:

• The squares and fountains of Rome
• Bernini sculptures (minus Galleria Borghese )
• Churches with Caravaggio paintings
• Medieval mosaics
• Ancient monuments

Or create your own street food tour by picking the best places to try supplì , pizza al taglio , trappizzino , tiramisu, and gelato , passing beautiful monuments on the way.

Free walking tours are another option if you don’t want to break the bank. These kinds of tours will show you a small part of the city. They usually last a couple of hours at the beginning or end of the day and don’t include any entrance fees, and are tip-based at your discretion. 

Conclusion: If you’re on a budget, guided tours aren’t your only option. There are some excellent resources you can use to explore on your own and free tours that can offer an introduction to some of the monuments in the city center.

What Should I Look for to Find the Right Walking Tour for Me?

Do you want a group tour? A small group tour? A private tour? Consider your budget and the kind of experience you want to find the right tour .

Group Tours

While a group walking tour might cost you €50 per person, you could be with 30+ other people, with little chance of interacting with the guide, who is hooked up to a radio system. However, these tours can be great if you just want to hear a little information about a place, to know what’s important to look at and don’t feel like reading a guidebook.

Small Group Tours

Walking tours with fewer than 10 people in a group will cost more (think around €100 per person), but you can ask questions and talk to other people in the group. The guide will have some flexibility to adapt the tour to the ages and interests of the group, offering you a more personalized type of tour.

Private Tours

Private guides offer maximum flexibility and, for families traveling together, may not be the more expensive option. Some guides specialize in history, art history, or archaeology, and some offer tours for younger travelers. Private guides will arrange your tickets and transportation or start the tour at your hotel, so you don’t have to worry about meeting points.

Tips for Choosing a Walking Tour in Rome:

• Check the list of places visited carefully and whether the tour includes entrance to a site or just an external view. 
• The Colosseum , Forum , and Palatine are on a single ticket. If a tour includes the Colosseum and Forum, you won’t be able to go back in on your own to visit the Palatine without buying another ticket.
• The basic Colosseum tickets do not include entrance to the underground. If seeing that is important to you, make sure you’re booking the right tour.
• Most walking tours last about 3 hrs, and (group tours) won’t include stops. Walking is usually at a leisurely pace, but if you don’t think you’ll be able to stand for so long, consider a golf cart tour instead.

Conclusion: Take time to compare different tours and see what each one offers. Doublecheck if entrance to the sites you want to visit is included on the tour and in the price before booking.

Can You Walk Rome in a Day?

The historic center of Rome isn’t big, but there’s a lot to see. The Colosseum to the Vatican Museums would take you about an hour on foot and wouldn’t be the best use of your time. 

If you only have a day in Rome , I suggest choosing either the Colosseum or the Vatican Museums. A tour of either site will take about 3 hours. Then you can enjoy the rest of the day walking around the center where Piazza Navona, the Pantheon, Spanish Steps, and Trevi Fountain are easy to walk between.

Conclusion: You can’t walk Rome in a day if you plan to visit the Vatican Museum and the Colosseum. Two days would be the minimum to do walking tours of both sites and to visit the most important monuments of the city center.

Are Night Walking Tours Worth Doing?

Rome is another kind of beautiful at night, with lights on many of the monuments, cooler temperatures, and no crowds. If you arrive in the afternoon and are ready to start exploring Rome, a night tour is a wonderful introduction to the Eternal City.

Most night tours will include the Trevi Fountain, Pantheon, Spanish Steps, Piazza Navona, and possibly Castel Sant’Angelo and St. Peter’s on the other side of the river. However, some focus on darker parts of Rome’s history, like stories of the Inquisition.

Conclusion: Rome is worth seeing at night, and some companies offer tours that include some of the city’s most famous monuments. This is also an easy self-guided option with GoogleMaps.

Tips for a Great Walking Tour Experience

• Don’t book a walking tour if you can’t walk at a leisurely pace for 3 hours. Think about doing a bus or golf cart tour instead.
• Wear comfortable shoes. If you’re visiting any ancient sites, it’s best to wear closed shoes.
• If your tour includes any churches, remember to respect the dress code and cover your shoulders and knees. Carry a light scarf in your bag so you’re ready any time you pass an interesting-looking church. 
• In the summer, bring sun cream, a sun hat or umbrella, and a water bottle with you. Rome has many water fountains where you can refill your bottle for free.
• Avoid outdoor tours during the middle of the day in summer. Try and book tours at the beginning or end of the day when the weather is cooler.
• In winter, bring an umbrella. Rome doesn’t have a lot of heavy rain, and tours will go ahead as long as the sites remain open.
• Book tours in advance, especially if you want hard-to-get tickets, like Galleria Borghese or the Colosseum Underground, and make sure you understand the cancellation policy. 
• Finally, always check what other travelers have said in online reviews to know what to expect before you book.

The Best Things To Do If You Only Have A One-Day Trip In Rome, According To Travelers

R ome, Italy, known as the Eternal City, truly lives up to its name with an endless array of activities, sights, and culinary delights that could keep you busy for an eternity. However, if you only have a one-day trip planned for Rome, you'll have to be more selective with what you see and do. One thing to consider when visiting Rome for only one day is how much walking you are comfortable doing. While many of the locations we recommend are within walking distance of one another, if you would rather take a cab or car service, you'll want to plan for travel time between areas.

Likewise, if you plan to walk during your day, wear comfortable shoes that will help you keep moving on the cobblestones. To blend in,  dress like a local in Italy, and be aware of any dress codes when visiting museums and churches. You might also consider bringing a small bag with a portable charger, water bottle, and anything else to keep you on the move. Additionally, some museums and other locations might prohibit entering with large bags, so you'll want to leave your luggage behind at the hotel or with a luggage storage facility. Pulling from our own experience, along with the first-hand accounts of other travelers, we've selected city highlights and activities that are worth considering if you only have one day in Rome. From famous locations to hidden gems and local treasures, Rome has something for everyone.

Read more: Simple Tips To Help You Avoid Theft While Traveling

Start The Day Like A Roman

To see the most of Rome during your day, you'll want to get an early start to the day and keep the energy high. To be best positioned to visit some of the more popular areas of the city early, we recommend grabbing breakfast or a coffee near Vatican City or in the Parati district. Knowing how to say a  few key phrases before visiting Italy  will help when ordering at a café, and locals often appreciate the effort. 

The Italians are known for their classic espresso, and at  Caffé Dei Papi , you can order one and choose from a wide selection of pastries. Traveler reviews on Google Reviews note the friendly service and proximity to Vatican City. If you're looking for somewhere to sit down and enjoy breakfast, head to The Loft . Here, travelers recommend the freshly squeezed orange juice and waffles, via Google Reviews . Another nearby location is the Sciascia Caffè , located in Prati. One traveler calls this establishment their "Favorite Coffee Shop in Rome" on  Tripadvisor . 

If you want to get a feel for the area, grab your coffee and pastry to go and walk around the Parati district, known for its well-preserved architecture and shopping. No matter where your morning escapade begins, allow yourself to be swept away by the spirited rhythm of the Italian city.

Visit The Vatican Museums And Sistine Chapel

Nestled within the hallowed walls of Vatican City, the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel stand as cultural jewels, inviting visitors on an extraordinary journey through art, history, and spirituality. The Vatican Museums house an extensive collection of masterpieces, spanning centuries and civilizations. You can expect to be captivated by sculptures, paintings, and artifacts during your visit. The pinnacle of this experience awaits within the Sistine Chapel, where Michelangelo's frescoes, including the iconic "The Last Judgment" behind the altar and the "Creation of Adam," adorn the ceiling.

When visiting the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel, you'll want to book your tickets ahead of time or schedule a tour to avoid long lines and maximize your time. You'll still need to go through the security line, so allow some extra time for that. Pre-booking provides not only convenience but also the opportunity to secure coveted spots on pre-opening small group tours or weekday visits, helping you to avoid the large tourist crowds in Rome .

One reviewer on Tripadvisor  suggests booking the early morning tour that includes breakfast. Another  Tripadvisor  reviewer mentions that their visit to the Sistine Chapel was not very crowded since they visited early in the morning on a weekday. As your Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel journey concludes, extend your exploration to take in the grandeur of St. Peter's Square and St. Peter's Basilica, if time allows.

Tour The Colosseum

The Colosseum stands as an indomitable symbol of history, spectacle, and architectural mastery of ancient Rome. Considered by travelers on  Tripadvisor as an absolute must-see, the Colosseum promises an immersive encounter with the city's rich past. You'll want to secure your tickets to one of the New Seven Wonders of the World well ahead of time, as tickets can sell out during peak travel season. 

One traveler notes that they spent about an hour and a half touring the Colosseum with their guide, via Tripadvisor . They booked ahead, but even tickets booked as far out as a month sell out for specific areas of this historic site. One such location within the Colosseum is the underground and gladiator platform. Depending on your schedule, one Colosseum underground tour takes place at night, offering a unique look at this ancient site. This night tour lasts about an hour and a half. Some tours also visit the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill, which typically take about two and a half hours.

Go Shopping In Prati

The Prati district is known for its shopping and proximity to the Vatican Museums and St. Peter's Basilica. Prati itself is not home to many famous landmarks, but it does offer a window into upscale Roman life. This area is an upscale neighborhood with unique boutiques and outdoor vendors. One traveler review on Tripadvisor notes that while Prati is home to high-end shops, you can also find less expensive shopping opportunities. Another review, also from Tripadvisor , mentions that this area was perfect for an evening stroll. 

Via Cola Di Rienzo is the main shopping street in Prati. The ambiance of the area is enchanting; not only catering to avid shoppers but also serving as the perfect backdrop for leisurely exploring. From shopping with friends to just enjoying the sites, this tree-lined street will offer you the perfect location to take in the views and travel from place to place.

Wander Around Monti

Rione Monti is a historic neighborhood, or rioni, in Rome. It is known for its charming and bohemian atmosphere, making it a favorite among both locals and visitors. Located in the heart of the city, Rione Monti is adjacent to the Colosseum and the Roman Forum, providing a central and convenient location. A charming escape from the bustling tourist hubs, Monti offers a glimpse into authentic Roman life, where cobblestone streets wind through historic alleys and vibrant piazzas. On  Tripadvisor , one traveler notes that Monti gives you the convenience of being close to some of Rome's major attractions in a non-touristy neighborhood.

A visit to Monti is incomplete without gelato. Travelers recommend  Gelateria Il Capriccio di Carla , where you can choose from an array of flavors that capture the essence of Italian craftsmanship. Traveler reviews on Tripadvisor recommend this ice cream shop because of its unique flavors and friendly staff, so grab a few scoops of this Italian favorite and wander through the lively neighborhood. Whether it's engaging with locals at a neighborhood trattoria, visiting a local restaurant or bar, or simply enjoying the lively ambiance, Monti invites you to relish the authenticity of Roman life in one of the city's most enchanting districts.

Walk To The Pantheon

The Pantheon, which is only about a 30-minute walk from the Colosseum, will take you back to ancient Rome, as the site is one of the most-preserved monuments from that era. If you choose to walk here, you can view the Roman Forum, the Monument to Victor Emmanuel II, and Piazza Venezia along the way.

In addition to holding a variety of cultural and spiritual importance, the Pantheon is also an architectural marvel. Its dome was the largest for 1,300 years, and to this day, remains the biggest dome in the world that is not supported.

One traveler review on Tripadvisor says that despite the long line to enter the Pantheon, the views from inside are well worth it. While you can book a tour of the Pantheon, exploring on your own gives more flexibility to your schedule, allowing you to spend as much or as little time in this ancient building as you'd like. Visitors must purchase a ticket to enter the Pantheon, which you can obtain online. 

Grab Some Lunch

Antica Salumeria is located right by the Pantheon and has raving reviews on Tripadvisor for its sandwiches and plates of meats and cheese. This lunch won't cost you a fortune either, as many reviews note the reasonable prices and the large portions to keep you fueled during your busy day in Rome. One traveler recommends grabbing the sandwich to-go and sitting outside to enjoy the view of the Pantheon and people-watch. Another lunch spot within walking distance from the Pantheon, as well as Trevi Fountain, is  Achille al Pantheon . Travelers praise the restaurant's food, service, and atmosphere on  Tripadvisor . The menu at Achille al Pantheon includes classic Italian dishes cooked with freshly made pasta.

Since you only have one day to spend seeing Rome, we recommend having a quick lunch but choosing a local restaurant with Italian classics. If you find yourself strolling through the city, take a moment to peruse the menus displayed outside various restaurants along your path. You might stumble upon a hidden gem. And, of course, when in Rome, savoring the local wines is a must.

Visit The Trevi District

Step into the ancient heart of Rome with a visit to Rione Trevi, a district steeped in history and adorned with two of the city's iconic landmarks — the Trevi Fountain and the Spanish Steps. This area, with its cobblestone streets and timeless allure, invites you to embark on a journey through the ages.

As one of the most famous fountains globally, the Fontana Di Trevi is a mesmerizing masterpiece that demands attention. No trip to Rome is truly complete without standing in awe of its grandeur. Engage in the tradition of tossing coins over your shoulder into the fountain, as legend has it that this ritual ensures your return to the Eternal City. On  Tripadvisor , one traveler emphasizes the stunning beauty of the fountain and opines that no trip to Rome is complete without a stop here. While taking in the grand view, do not touch the water in the fountain or attempt to reclaim your coin, both of these things can get you heavily fined by local authorities. 

The famed Spanish Steps, a bustling hub with a unique charm, is also located in this area. Though sitting on the steps is not permitted, the climb offers architectural marvels and panoramic views. Another traveler review on  Tripadvisor recommends this picturesque stop, highlighting the scenic views from the top level. Soak in the charm, toss a coin into the Trevi Fountain, and climb the Spanish Steps — a delightful exploration awaits in Rione Trevi, where every step is a stroll through the timeless beauty of the Eternal City.

Get A Guide

To truly immerse yourself in the rich history and vibrant culture of Rome, a guided tour can elevate your experience to new heights. Opting for an audio tour allows you the flexibility to explore at your own pace while being enriched with insightful commentary that unveils the city's secrets. Consider using  Rick Steves Italy Audio Tours , some of which are free. As you wander through the ancient ruins and iconic landmarks, a knowledgeable guide in your ear will provide context and historical anecdotes, transforming your sightseeing into an educational journey.

For a more active and engaging exploration, a bike tour through the heart of the Eternal City is an excellent choice. One traveler, who reviewed their tour on Tripadvisor , booked an evening bike tour. They said traveling around the city on the provided e-bikes was a breeze and the tour was a unique way to experience Rome. Alternatively, a walking tour offers an intimate encounter with Rome's charm. Strolling through its charming neighborhoods, you can absorb the ambiance and interact with the locals, gaining insights beyond the guidebooks. Whether on foot, bike, or with an audio guide, these tours not only unlock the treasures of Rome but also provide a personalized and enriching exploration of this timeless city.

Take In The Art

No lover of the arts would dare visit Rome without seeing the Borghese Gallery . Visiting the Galleria Borghese, housed in the Borghese Villa, promises a captivating journey into this treasure trove of masterpieces from renowned artists such as Caravaggio, Raphael, and Bernini. The works of art on display create a diverse and harmonious ensemble that reflects the evolution of artistic styles over the centuries.

To enhance the experience, the Galleria Borghese operates on a timed entry system that limits how many guests can enter the gallery at a time, ensuring a more intimate and focused exploration for each visitor. This aspect of the museum is something travelers tend to enjoy since it is less crowded than other landmarks, according to reviews on  Tripadvisor.  With its intimate setting and carefully curated collection, the Galleria Borghese offers a unique and immersive experience for art enthusiasts.

The meticulously designed rooms and lush surroundings of the Borghese Gardens further contribute to the overall enchantment of the visit. Whether you are an art connoisseur or a casual admirer, the Galleria Borghese stands as a testament to Rome's artistic legacy, inviting you to savor the beauty and brilliance of its unparalleled collection.

Head Underground

One unique view of the city can be found underground.  The Catacombs of Rome  can be visited with a tour guide as you head deep into history -- and into the ground. You'll learn about the history of this underground section of Rome, and your guide will keep you from getting lost in this network of burial sites.

These underground cemeteries were used from the second century until the fifth. Although there are miles of catacombs under the city of Rome, only five are open to the public. Since this is a sacred site, you will want to dress modestly, which includes covering your knees and shoulders.

If you opt for a tour of these areas, you will likely visit the Catacombs of Rome, the Capuchin Crypt, and Basilica San Martino Ai Monti. On Tripadvisor , one reviewer who took a tour found on Viator says, "If you only have time to do one tour in Rome, this should be the one." Underground tours can take over three hours, so make sure it's a top activity for your one day in Rome before signing up.

Enjoy Fine Dining

There is no shortage of fine dining experiences in Rome, Italy, but with limited time, you'll need to select one place for a memorable experience. The Ad Hoc Ristorante in Piazza del Popolo has an exceptional menu and a wine list with more than 1,000 Italian wines to select from. One traveler on Tripadvisor  praises the divine truffle tasting menu at the restaurant and perfectly paired wines. To note, the Ad Hoc offers two locations, each with the same menu, but the newer location in Circus Maximus features an outdoor terrace. A reservation will likely be required to dine at either.

Another location to consider is Crispi 19 , which is located in the historical center of Rome. You will find this restaurant between the Trevi Fountain and the Spanish Steps, a perfect location for dinner before an evening stroll through the city. Crispi 19 specializes in seafood, and fresh fish arrives on-site daily. One reviewer on  Tripadvisor  describes the seven-course tasting menu as a "special experience." 

Take A Cooking Class

Embark on a culinary adventure in the heart of Rome by signing up for a cooking class with a seasoned Italian chef. This immersive experience not only introduces you to the art of crafting delectable pasta but also provides an opportunity to learn the secrets of authentic Italian cuisine. To secure your spot, it's advisable to book the class in advance, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable learning experience.

One review of a course booked through  Airbnb mentions how much they enjoyed learning to craft pasta by hand and learning more about the history of Italian cuisine. Another reviewer, who reviewed a course found through  Tripadvisor , says they liked learning to make pasta but loved meeting other travelers and sharing the unique experience with them. By immersing yourself in the flavors and culinary wisdom of Italy, you can bring home a few recipes and cherished memories of a truly authentic Roman experience. 

Our Methodology

To create this one-day itinerary of Rome, we meticulously researched various sources to ensure that we presented a comprehensive and insightful guide. We scoured the websites of the highlights mentioned in this post to ensure all information was up-to-date and accurate. Along with sourcing reviews from Google and Tripadvisor to provide us with various traveler opinions, we also pulled from our own first-hand experiences. 

By delving into these diverse resources, we gained valuable insights into the nuances of Rome's attractions, helping us pinpoint the must-visit locations and hidden gems. The selected destinations vary from quaint, locally cherished spots to internationally renowned landmarks, ensuring a well-rounded representation of the city's rich tapestry.

Read the original article on Explore .

Rome: Borghese Gallery Small Group Tour & Skip-the-Line Admission

TICKET PRICES STARTING FROM

Taxes and fees will be calculated at checkout

Enjoy the Borghese Gallery and Villa Borghese Gardens in Rome with skip-the-line admission and a guided walking tour limited to 15 people. This popular attraction often sells out in advance, so by pre-booking a ticket, visit one of the world’s most beautiful art museums hosting the works of extraordinary artists. Admire Caravaggio’s most important paintings, among which “Young sick Bacchus” and “Boy with a Basket of Fruit”; Bernini and Canova’s magnificent sculptures’ collection, boasting works like “Apollo and Daphne”, “David”, “The Rape of Proserpina” and “Paolina Bonaparte”. Of course the tour won’t miss out on Raffaello’s “Entombment of Christ”. The guide will lead the tour through the marvelous rooms of Casina Borghese, with its splendid frescoes, disclose the secrets, the stories and the painting techniques concealed behind the masterpieces of one of the world’s most beautiful art museum. Villa Borghese gardens and gallery, you cannot miss it when you visit Rome.

Ticket Options

10 Options Available

Guided Tour - 5:00pm: $95

It is a guided small-group tour (max 20 people!) with an expert guide. Departs at 5:00pm. Please arrive at strictly 04:45pm.

Guided Tour - 1:00pm: $95

It is a guided small-group tour (max 20 people!) with an expert guide. Departs at 1:00pm. Please arrive at strictly 12:45pm.

Guided Tour - 12:00pm: $95

It is a guided small-group tour (max 20 people!) with an expert guide.Departs at 12:00pm. Please arrive at strictly 11:45am.

Guided Tour - 11:00am: $95

It is a guided small-group tour (max 20 people!) with an expert guide. Departs at 11:00am. Please arrive at strictly 10:45am.

Guided Tour - 9:00am: $95

It is a guided small-group tour (max 20 people!) with an expert guide. Departs at 9:00am. Please arrive at strictly 8:45am.

Guided Tour - 5:45pm: $95

It is a guided small-group tour (max 20 people!) with an expert guide. Departs at 5:45pm. Please arrive at strictly 05:30pm.

Guided Tour - 3:00pm: $95

It is a guided small-group tour (max 20 people!) with an expert guide. Departs at 3:00pm. Please arrive at strictly 2:45pm.

Guided Tour - 2:00pm: $95

It is a guided small-group tour (max 20 people!) with an expert guide. Departs at 2:00pm. Please arrive at strictly 01:45pm.

Guided Tour - 4:00pm: $95

It is a guided small-group tour (max 20 people!) with an expert guide. Departs at 4:00pm. Please arrive at strictly 03:45pm.

Guided Tour - 10:00am: $95

It is a guided small-group tour (max 20 people!) with an expert guide.Departs at 10:00am. Please arrive at strictly 9:45am.

Ticket Information

• Mobile or paper ticket accepted
• One per booking

What's Included

• No additional fees or taxes
• Walking tour of Villa Borghese Gardens (No Guide)
• Borghese Gallery guided visit (2 hours)
• Guaranteed to skip the long lines

What's not Included

• Food and drinks
• Hotel pickup and drop-off

Cancellation Policy

• For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Additional Info

• Wheelchair accessible
• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels
• Dress code is smart casual
• Travelers with excessive sized bags will have certain problems, please note that bags are not permitted inside the Borghese Gallery, and will need to be checked in at the cloakroom before the tour to be collected afterwards.

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Tiger Woods opens PGA Championship in 1-over 72

Tiger Woods readies to begin Thursday's opening round at Valhalla. (Ben Jared/PGA TOUR)

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Tiger Woods knows he's competitively rusty, compared to the vast majority of this week's PGA Championship field. That doesn't mean he expects any less of himself.

Woods opened the 106th PGA Championship in 1-over 72, a mixed bag of a morning in Louisville, Kentucky. He battled through a series of wayward tee shots to remain around par through the majority of his opening round at Valhalla Golf Club, and he caught fire midway through his second nine to move into red figures. Woods, though, closed with back-to-back three-putt bogeys that will leave a sour taste in his mouth overnight. He's 10 strokes off the pace of Xander Schauffele, who carded 9-under 62 to begin the week, the PGA Championship's single-round record low score.

The day resembled his first round at last month's Masters (1-over 73), with an up-and-down cadence but an end result that should fall near the projected cut line. Woods followed with a second-round 72 at the Masters to make the cut, setting a tournament record with his 24th straight made cut. He'll look Friday to play the weekend for a second straight major championship, aiming for a faster start than he accomplished Thursday (where he was lucky to escape his first three holes in just 1 over, before working into more of a flow).

"It took me probably three holes to get back into competitive flow again and get a feel for hitting the ball out there in competition, adrenaline, temperatures, green speeds," Woods said after his opening round. "These are all things that normally I adjust to very quickly, and it just took me a few holes to get into it.

"I am getting stronger for sure ... Each day is a little bit different. Some days, it's better than others. It's just the way it is. My body is just that way. Some days, it feels great, and other days, a bit of a struggle."

Woods' history echoes throughout the grounds at Valhalla, as his 2000 PGA Championship victory here (outlasting Bob May in a three-hole playoff) marked the third leg of the "Tiger Slam," which he completed at the 2001 Masters. Woods won the 2000 U.S. Open and The Open by a combined 23 shots, before the wily veteran May gave him all he could handle for 75 holes at Valhalla. It might be a tall task to expect Woods to hoist another Wanamaker Trophy this weekend, but making the cut for a second straight major championship is certainly in the realm.

"I think that I've made a few cuts in a row, what was it, 140-some odd," Woods said Thursday. "So you have to just grind it out. It's a marathon. Major championships are a long grind. It's just plotting along. It's not a sprint. It's just a grind.

"You can't win a tournament unless you make the cut. That's the whole idea is get to the weekend so that you can participate and have a chance to win. I've been on the cut number and have won tournaments, or I've been ahead and leading tournaments and I've won tournaments. But you have to get to the weekend in order to win a golf tournament."

Read below for hole-by-hole updates from Woods' opening round at the 106th PGA Championship.

1:25 p.m.: It's a disappointing finish for Woods, who closes his round with a second straight three-putt bogey.

He splits the fairway off the tee at the dogleg-right, 411-yard par 4, leaving just 144 yards to the hole, but plays a substandard approach to 34 feet, leaves his birdie putt 6 feet short and cannot convert to save par. It means a 1-over 72 for Woods, featuring some good and some bad. He'll still be within striking distance of the cut line at Valhalla, but he's 10 strokes back of early leader Xander Schauffele, who set a PGA Championship single-round scoring record with a 9-under 62.

1:10 p.m.: Woods plays to the front-left portion of the 169-yard, par-3 eighth, but his birdie putt releases well past the hole to leave a lengthy par attempt from 10 feet. He can't convert. Just like that, after reaching red numbers for the first time on the previous hole, he's back to level par for the day. One hole remains.

12:55 p.m.: After a solid two-putt par from 54 feet at the staunch par-4 sixth, Woods solves the double-fairway, par-5 seventh. He plays to the left fairway off the tee, strikes a 238-yard second shot into the right greenside bunker (a conservative line with flanking down the left side) and gets up-and-down with a birdie from 13 feet.

For the first time today, Woods is under par. It's a testament to his resilience after a shaky start, and his body appears to be holding up respectably. He's 1 under for the opening round with two holes to play. He's eight off the pace of leader Xander Schauffele, but the 15-time major champion is tied for 17th on the leaderboard, comfortably inside the projected cut line.

12:15 p.m.: Woods is finding a groove as the round progresses, but he can't quite get on a birdie run. He strikes a 69-yard wedge to 14 feet on the short par-4 fourth but cannot convert the birdie. He stuffs a 156-yard 8-iron to 9 feet on the scenic par-4 fifth, the approach shot descending down the hill, but cannot convert the birdie. He settles for back-to-back stress-free pars, remaining at even-par on his round with four holes to play. He's eight back of Xander Schauffele, who is threatening the PGA Championship's all-time single-round low of 63 (which has been recorded on 18 occasions).

11:45 a.m.: Tiger is a tactician. He stripes his tee shot on the 194-yard, par-3 third to 5 feet and converts for birdie, returning to even-par on the day. It's his second birdie of the round, accompanying his 3 on the limestone-waterfall par-4 13th. Despite some loose tee shots at times, he's making it work with his trademark grit that has led to a record-tying 82 PGA TOUR titles.

11:30 a.m.: Woods is struggling to find a groove off the tee, but he's making it work anyway. He tugs his tee shot left at the par-4 first hole, his 10th, but muscles out an approach onto the green to leave a 19-foot birdie attempt; he two-putts for par. He over-cuts his tee shot on the long par-4 second, catching a greenside bunker; he plays his second shot to the fairway short-right of the green. He plays a deft 35-yard pitch to 5 feet and saves a crafty par. He's 1 over through 11 holes.

10:55 a.m.: After two big shots at the 571-yard, par-5 18th, Woods faces a straightforward eagle pitch from a collection area just behind the green. He can't take advantage though, as the 56-foot pitch settles 14 feet short of the hole, and he two-putts for a slightly disappointing par. Woods turns in 1-over 37, six strokes behind leader Xander Schauffele, who turns in 5-under 31 from the same nine.

10:35 a.m.: Woods makes back-to-back pars on Nos. 16 and 17, and they come in contrasting styles. His par at the brawny 503-yard, par-4 16th is routine -- fairway, green, two-putt from 24 feet (although the second putt is a 7-foot comebacker after a slick birdie try). He fights harder on the par-4 17th, missing his tee shot into the right rough and his second shot into the left greenside bunker but then getting up-and-down with a 7-footer. He's 1 over through eight holes, headed to the par-5 18th.

10:04 a.m.: Woods falls victim to Valhalla's thick rough on the par-4 15th, as he misses his tee shot into the left rough and is forced to lay up, similar to on No. 12. This time he can't save par, as his 68-yard third shot lands 33 feet past the hole and he two-putts for bogey. Woods returns over par for the day, now 1 over through six.

9:40 a.m.: Woods plays a smart shot to the middle of the green on the 256-yard, par-3 14th, and he comfortably two-putts from 54 feet. Woods stays even-par through five holes, as he has demonstrated good pace on the greens early Thursday in the Bluegrass State.

9:20 a.m.: Woods rolls the momentum from an unlikely par at the 12th into his first birdie of the week. On the iconic limestone-waterfall par-4 13th, he splits the fairway and plays a deft 92-yard wedge to 18 feet. He doesn't miss a beat on the uphill birdie try; it finds the center of the cup. Woods returns to even-par on the day.

9:02 a.m.: Woods is a 15-time major champion for many reasons; among them, he has a propensity to grind out unexpected pars to keep a round on the tracks. The par-4 12th hole is proof positive; after missing the fairway left into thick rough and being forced to lay up, Woods gets up and down from 180 yards, draining a 15-footer to save par from near the green's back edge. He delivers a sheepish salute to the appreciative fans, staying 1 over through three holes.

8:45 a.m.: Woods gets scrappy on the 211-yard, par-3 11th, as his tee shot misses the green long-right and he chips back over the green into a bunker. He saves bogey with a 6-footer, though, limiting the damage. He's 1 over through two to begin the day.

8:32 a.m.: Woods plays a fairway metal to the rough some 50 yards short of the green on his opening hole, the par-5 10th, leaving an awkward angle for his third shot, short-sided. He plays a masterful high flop shot for his third, 12 feet past the hole, and two-putts for an opening par. The 82-time TOUR winner is off and running at Valhalla.

8:15 a.m.: Woods takes driver for his first swing, beginning on the par-5 10th, and uncorks a high fade that splits the fairway. The crowd roars. Woods is sporting a salmon shirt with his new Sun Day Red branding.

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Rafael Nadal reconsidering his status for the French Open after a lopsided loss in Rome

Rafael Nadal, of Spain, leaves after loosing his match against Hubert Hurkacz, of Poland, at the Italian Open tennis tournament in Rome, Saturday, May 11, 2024.(AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia)

Rafael Nadal, of Spain, wipes his face as he prepare to serve the ball to Hubert Hurkacz, of Poland, during their match at the Italian Open tennis tournament in Rome, Saturday, May 11, 2024.(AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia)

Rafael Nadal, of Spain, pauses during his match against Hubert Hurkacz, of Poland, at the Italian Open tennis tournament in Rome, Saturday, May 11, 2024.(AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia)

A view of the central court as Hubert Hurkacz, of Poland, plays Rafael Nadal, of Spain, during their match at the Italian Open tennis tournament in Rome, Saturday, May 11, 2024. (Alfredo Falcone/LaPresse via AP)

Hubert Hurkacz, of Poland, returns the ball to Rafael Nadal, of Spain, during their match at the Italian Open tennis tournament in Rome, Saturday, May 11, 2024.(AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia)

Rafael Nadal, of Spain, meets with journalists at the end of his match against Hubert Hurkacz, of Poland, at the Italian Open tennis tournament in Rome, Saturday, May 11, 2024.(AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia)

Hubert Hurkacz, of Poland, celebrates after winning his match against Rafael Nadal, of Spain, at the Italian Open tennis tournament in Rome, Saturday, May 11, 2024.(AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia)

Novak Djokovic, of Serbia, arrives at a training session during the Italian Open tennis tournament in Rome, Saturday, May 11, 2024.(AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia)

Iga Swiatek, of Poland, celebrates after winning a point during her match against YuliaPutintseva, of Kazakhstan, at the Italian Open tennis tournament in Rome, Saturday, May 11, 2024.(AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia)

Rafael Nadal, of Spain, right, greets Hubert Hurkacz, of Poland, at the end of their match at the Italian Open tennis tournament in Rome, Saturday, May 11, 2024.(AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia)

Naomi Osaka, of Japan, celebrates after winning a point during her match against Daria Kasatkina, of Russia, at the Italian Open tennis tournament in Rome, Saturday, May 11, 2024.(AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia)

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ROME (AP) — Fifteen days before he is scheduled to play in what will likely be his final French Open, Rafael Nadal is so unsatisfied with his level of tennis that he’s still debating whether or not to go to Roland Garros.

Nadal’s surgically repaired hip and his 37-year-old legs didn’t provide him with the necessary means to be competitive enough on Saturday as ninth-ranked Hubert Hurkacz overwhelmed the 22-time Grand Slam champion on the Spaniard’s beloved clay for a 6-1, 6-3 victory in the third round of the Italian Open .

It was Nadal’s first match against a top-10 player in 1½ years and he couldn’t have been more disappointed.

“Tough day for me in all ways because I felt more ready than what I showed,” Nadal said. “I am little bit more unpredictable today, not playing enough for the last two years. Too many doubts.”

In terms of games won — just four — it was the most lopsided loss for Nadal on clay in 21 years, since also winning only four games against Gaston Gaudio in Hamburg in 2003 when he was only 16.

Now Nadal will need to dig deeper on the practice court if wants to be competitive one last time at the French Open, where he is the record 14-time champion. Roland Garros starts on May 26.

Nadal said he had two options for Paris.

“One is to say, ‘OK, I am not ready, I am not playing enough well,” Nadal said. “Another is accept how I am today and work the proper way to try to be in a different way in two weeks.

“The decision, as you can imagine, is not clear in my mind today. But if I have to say what’s my feeling and if my mind is closer one way or the other way, I going to say be in Roland Garros and try my best,” Nadal added. “Physically I have some issues, but not probably yet enough to say not playing in the most important event of my tennis career.”

Nadal is still regaining his fitness after missing nearly all of 2023 with a hip injury that required surgery,

“Let’s see what’s going on, how I feel myself mentally tomorrow, after tomorrow, and in one week,” Nadal said. “If I feel ready, I going to try to be there and fight for the things that I have been fighting the last 15 years, if now seems impossible.”

Against the big-serving Hurkacz, appeared slow at times and lacked the lucidness to finish off points.

Twice in the first set, Nadal missed drop shot attempts to hand Hurkacz breaks of his serve.

Then early in the second set, Nadal lacked oomph on a backhand volley, allowing Hurkacz to reply with a forehand up the line that clipped the net and landed in for another break.

On the changeovers, Nadal sat hunched over, sweat dripping from his headband and deep in thought for solutions that he couldn’t find.

Nadal has indicated this will be his final season on tour and fans inside Campo Centrale tried to encourage the record 10-time Rome champion with chants of “Ole Ole Ole, Ra-fa, Ra-fa.”

The crowd even hung around outside the stadium after the match, with thousands of spectators cheering for Nadal when he walked over a bridge leading out of the stadium to the players’ area.

Nadal hadn’t faced a top-10 player since beating No. 4 Casper Ruud at the 2022 ATP Finals.

Nadal didn’t convert any of his seven break points and committed twice as many unforced errors as Hurkacz — 20 to 10.

Hurkacz served nine aces to Nadal’s one.

After the match, Nadal declined to participate in a celebration of his career that local organizers had prepared.

Meanwhile, top-ranked Novak Djokovic said he was “fine” after accidentally getting knocked on the head by a water bottle while signing autographs after his opening win on Friday.

But Djokovic wasn’t taking any further chances when he showed up at the Foro Italico for practice on Saturday, putting on a biking helmet when he met with fans again .

In the women’s tournament, top-ranked Iga Swiatek beat Yulia Putintseva 6-3, 6-4 for her eighth consecutive win; and Naomi Osaka defeated No. 11 Daria Kasatkina — the highest-ranked player she’s faced this year — 6-3, 6-3,

Swiatek trailed 4-1 in the second set but then won five straight games after saving four break points to hold for 2-4.

“I needed to get my focus together,” Swiatek said.

Having won the Madrid Open last week, Swiatek is attempting to become the first woman to win the “dirt double” since Serena Williams in 2013. She’s already a two-time Rome champion.

Nadal was Swiatek’s role model.

“He’s a huge inspiration,” Swiatek said. “He’s basically the only idol I ever had in my life. So it’s great that he’s back to play some tennis.”

Hurkacz will next face 25th-seeded Tomas Etcheverry, who eliminated Thiago Seyboth Wild 6-3, 7-5.

Also, defending champion Daniil Medvedev beat Jack Draper 7-5, 6-4.

AP tennis: https://apnews.com/hub/tennis