1 day tour in rome

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

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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!

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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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BEST of Rome in One Day: Things to Do, 1-Day Itinerary, Map & Tips

By Author Jurga

Posted on Last updated: March 5, 2024

Visiting Rome for one day and wondering how to best plan your time so that you can see the very best of the Eternal City in a limited time? In this guide, we share a suggested 1-day itinerary for Rome that includes the two main landmarks – Colosseum and the Vatican – as well as all the other musts in the historic city center. Find out!

Rome is one of the best cities to visit in Italy . It’s also one of the oldest and most unique cities in the world. With so much history and impressive landmarks behind every corner, planning a 1-day visit to Rome can be really overwhelming.

What to see and do? Which tickets to book in advance? What’s worth your time the most if you only have 1 day in Rome? And how to squeeze all the ‘musts’ in just a day?

To help you plan your trip, we created a detailed 1-day Rome itinerary , including the very best places to see and essential planning tips. It should help you make the most of your short visit to Rome and ensure that you see the ‘musts’ that Rome is most famous for.

At the end of this guide, you’ll also find a map of the places we recommend visiting in Rome in a day, as well as essential practical tips that you should know before you go.

Good to know: For this itinerary, we assume that you have one full day in Rome (at least from 7-8 AM to 7-8 PM). Also if you are visiting Rome as part of a European cruise, this should indeed be the case. Most cruise ships will arrive very early in the morning and leave late at night, allowing you to make the most of your day in Rome (here you can find the best transfer options from the cruise port to the city ).

Good to know: Our recommended 1-day Rome itinerary includes a visit to the Vatican and the Colosseum. The Vatican Museums are closed on Sundays and on some religious holidays. If that’s the case on the day of your visit, normally, you can still visit St. Peter’s Basilica. So adjust your itinerary based on that.

Important! You have to prebook your tickets/tours for the Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel and the Colosseum or you won’t be able to visit inside!

TIP: If you have just a day in Rome and want to make the most of your visit, consider getting this Rome Tourist Card . It’s a combined ticket that includes entry to all the top sights that you can visit in Rome in a day (Colosseum, Roman Forum, Palatine Hill, Sistine Chapel, St. Peter’s Basilica & its dome). This card allows you to choose time slots for all the top attractions in one go (so that you can immediately see what’s available to make sure you can do it all in 1 day).

It includes priority access to all the main sights mentioned in our 1-day Rome itinerary below and will save you time and money. You can find more information  here .

Here’s what you can see and do in Rome in one day:

MORNING: The Vatican

Vatican museums & sistine chapel.

To many, visiting the Vatican and seeing the Sistine Chapel is one of the absolute musts in Rome.

Since this is one of the most visited places in the city, you’ll need to book your tickets (or a tour) in advance. So to make the rest of the day more relaxing, we recommend that you come here first thing in the morning .

If you prefer to visit Vatican Museums on your own, get the entrance tickets for the very first time slot when the museum opens. If you prefer going with a guide, book an early tour – the earlier, the better.

Going on your own, you’ll of course have more flexibility and can plan your visit as you please. But keep in mind that the Vatican museums can be overwhelming. If you only want to see the Sistine Chapel, you’ll be fine going without a guide. There are signs pointing to the chapel and eventually, all the routes end up there. If, however, you want to learn a bit more and see the best of this museum, I highly recommend going with a guide.

Here are some of the best Vatican tours that start early in the morning :

• Early Entry to the Vatican & The Sistine Chapel + St. Peter’s Basilica . This is the best early morning tour that allows you to  see the Sistine Chapel before it opens to the public , and also uses the corridor between the two sites allowing you to visit St. Peter’s without waiting in line. Not only it’s a very unique experience, but going so early also means that you’ll be able to make the most of your day in Rome.
• Skip-the-Ticket-Line Vatican Tour and Sistine Chapel . This is  the most popular (and great value) tour  of the Vatican Museums. Keep in mind that it doesn’t include a visit to St. Peter’s Basilica.

St. Peter’s Basilica

After visiting the Sistine Chapel, you’ll likely want to see St. Peter’s Basilica . The entrance to the church is free of charge, but there are security checks and, usually, big crowds of people waiting to get in. That’s why we recommend going with a tour that includes both places – they use a special door between the museums and the church, so you don’t have to stand in line at St. Peter’s.

St. Peter’s is the biggest and the most important Catholic church in the world and is absolutely massive. It’s gigantic, lavishly decorated, and really impressive – well worth a visit. But – if you visit here on your own (or with a tour that only visits St. Peter’s ), you’ll have to spend quite some extra time just to get inside.

There’s yet another queue to go up the St. Peter’s Dome . And while climbing the Dome is one of the best experiences in the Vatican, with just a day in Rome, I think I’d skip it. Unless you are visiting in the quiet season when there are fewer crowds (=less time wasted in lines), or if you don’t go inside the Vatican Museums.

TIP: With just a day in Rome (and trying to make the utmost of your time), I recommend that you book an early morning tour that includes a visit to the Vatican Museums & St. Peter’s Basilica . This tour starts at around 7.15-7.45 AM and ends at around 11-11.30 AM (but do check the times, in case something changes). It allows you to see all the musts in the shortest possible time.

After the tour, you could still try and visit St. Peter’s Dome if the line isn’t too long at that moment. You can just decide this on the day itself since you have to get the tickets on the spot anyway.

NOON: Lunch & make your way to the Colosseum

There are several good restaurants close to the Vatican Museums, so you could have lunch here.

Alternatively, you could first take a metro from the nearby Ottaviano metro station to the Colosseum and find a restaurant for lunch there (depending on your exact plans/ tours you take).

If you have a bit more time (or don’t mind paying a few euros for a taxi), you could first walk to St. Angelo Bridge and also see Castel St. Angelo , and then catch a taxi to the Colosseum from there.

It’s also possible to walk from the Vatican to the Colosseum, but it takes about an hour, so I don’t recommend doing this if you only have a day in Rome.

AFTERNOON: Colosseum, Roman Forum & Palatine Hill

The Colosseum is another of the must-see landmarks of Rome that you should try to see, even if you only have a day in the city. However, this is also an extremely popular sight, attracting huge crowds. So if you want to visit the Colosseum inside (and not just see it from the outside), it’s absolutely essential that you book priority tickets (or a tour ) in advance.

Timing-wise, I think you should try to visit here at around 2 PM – it should work best for this itinerary.

For the ultimate experience, I recommend that you visit all the accessible levels of the Colosseum , including the Arena Floor and the Colosseum Underground. It’s only here that you can get a much better understanding of how this arena functioned, and how the life of the gladiators was.

The underground level can only be accessed with a guide. The good thing is that you can skip most of the queues, and the guide also takes a shorter route between the various levels that you wouldn’t be able to do on your own.

So in the end, it doesn’t take that much more time than going on your own (if at all), and you get to see more while also avoiding the biggest crowds. Plus, I hear from so many people that they find the Colosseum too confusing, waste time everywhere, and sometimes don’t even see everything (and you are not allowed to backtrack at certain places, so if you miss a part, you can’t go back).

Good to know: If you decide to visit the Colosseum on your own, you can choose between regular priority tickets or – slightly more expensive – tickets that also include Arena Floor .

TIP: We did and highly recommend this guided tour – it includes a visit to the Colosseum (underground, the Arena Floor, and all the rest), and – if the option is chosen – also the Palatine Hill and the Roman Forum . The Colosseum visit alone takes about 1.5 hours, and the entire tour takes about 3 hours.

Depending on the crowds, it can feel a bit rushed at the Palatine Hill and the Roman Forum, but you’d never be able to see even half of it if you try to do all this on your own. It’s a massive archeological site, so keep in mind that it will be very overwhelming just trying to figure out where to go and what to see.

If you have less time or want to visit just certain Colosseum levels with a guide, this tour gives you lots of options to tailor it to your needs. For example, you can visit the Colosseum with e.g. the Arena Floor with a guide and go to the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill on your own, or even skip the latter completely if you don’t have enough time. After all, with just a day in Rome, you have to plan really well and be very selective about how you spend your time.

READ ALSO: Colosseum Tickets & Levels Explained

EVENING: Historic City Center

Pantheon & piazza navona.

After visiting the Colosseum, walk to the historic city center (it’s a nice walk of about 20-30 minutes). On the way, you’ll pass the impressive Via dei Fori Imperiali and Piazza Venezia .

You could also make just a tiny detour and check out Largo di Torre Argentina . This picturesque archeological site is the spot where Julius Caesar was killed. Despite its central location, this is one of the lesser-visited hidden gems of Rome , but you only need a few minutes to see it, and it’s very close to the Pantheon. So check it out.

Next, head to Piazza Navona . It’s located just nearby and is one of the must-sees in Rome. You can just walk around the square and check out its three fountains: the Fiumi Fountain and the obelisk in the middle, the Neptune Fountain on the northern side, and the Moor Fountain on the southern end of the square.

If you want to see the Pantheon inside, head there asap, without wasting too much time for any of the other landmarks in the historic center. The Pantheon usually closes at around 6-7 PM depending on the season. But you have to account for the queue as well and the wait can be really long…

Good to know: Nowadays you need tickets in order to visit the Pantheon. We highly recommend that you book a timed-entry ticket online in advance . For this itinerary, opt for the very last available time slot. Keep in mind that you have to pick up these tickets on Piazza Navona first! All online tickets have to be picked up at an external location. If you book them on the official site , it’s yet another spot, so be sure to read the instructions.

Alternatively, just head to the Pantheon as soon as you can after visiting the Colosseum and be prepared to stand in line hoping you can get inside before it closes. Or simply make peace with the fact that you may not be able to see everything in Rome in a day and just admire the building from the outside.

Next, walk to the famous Trevi Fountain , stopping for a gelato on your way. Two of the best gelaterias in Rome – Giolitti and Gelateria Della Palma – are both located along the way, so get some ice cream and enjoy it as you explore the historic city center.

Trevi Fountain, Spanish Steps, Pincian Hill & Piazza del Popolo

Trevi Fountain needs no introduction. This world-famous fountain is one of the most iconic landmarks of Rome. It’s usually extremely busy here, but it’s always possible to get quite close to the water if you want to throw the traditional coin in the fountain.

From Trevi, it’s about 10 minutes walk to the Spanish Steps – another must on any trip to Rome. Here, you’ll also find the most popular shopping neighborhood in the city center. With just a day in Rome, I think I’d skip the shopping and just enjoy the sights, though.

If you take the steps all the way to the top, you can enjoy some nice views of the city from Pincian Hill. If you want to, you can also visit Trinità dei Monti church at the top of the Spanish Steps, but seeing it inside is not a must.

Instead of going back down the stairs, follow the street to the left and walk to Terrazza del Pincio , a popular sunset spot in Rome. Along the way, you’ll pass another viewpoint with a monument to Enrico e Giovanni Cairoli – this angle offers even better views of the city. Depending on the time of the year when you visit, you might be here at around sunset, indeed, but the views are nice at any time of the day.

From Pincio Terrace, you can take the stairs down to Piazza del Popolo . Located at the historic Rome city gate, this is one of the oldest and biggest town squares in the city, with the ancient Flaminio Obelisk, several impressive fountains, and two interesting churches – Santa Maria dei Miracoli and Santa Maria in Montesanto.

From here, it’s just a short walk back to the heart of the historic city center, where you will find lots of souvenir shops and restaurants. Or you can take a metro or a taxi to wherever you have to be next.

Rome 1 Day Itinerary & Map

Here is an overview of our suggested Rome itinerary for one day:

• 7-11.30 AM: Visit the Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel, and St. Peter’s Basilica. We recommend this tour . If you don’t do a tour, it’s essential to book the Vatican Museum priority tickets in advance.
• Optional: St. Peter’s Dome Climb and/or walk to St. Angelo Castle and St. Angel’s Bridge.
• Lunch and make your way to the Colosseum (by taxi or metro).
• 2-5 PM: Visit the Colosseum, the Palatine Hill, and the Roman Forum. We did and recommend this tour . If you are not interested in the underground level of the Colosseum, you can also just get priority tickets for the Colosseum + Roman Forum/Palatine Hill (or tickets that also include Arena Floor ). Whatever you choose, be sure to book in advance!
• 5-6 PM: Walk to the city center. See Piazza Venezia and – potentially – Largo di Torre Argentina. You can also take a taxi if you are in a hurry for the Pantheon.
• +-5.30-6 PM: Visit the Pantheon (depending on the time slot you could get if booking online , or be prepared to stand in line and hope to get in before it closes). Alternatively, just see it from the outside.
• Evening: Visit Piazza Navona, Trevi Fountain, Spanish Steps, Piazza del Popolo, and enjoy some of the best viewpoints in Rome. Dinner in the city center.

PRO TIP: If you are planning to follow this itinerary as described above and rather not book guided tours, check out this  digital Rome Tourist Card . It’s the easiest way to book timed-entry tickets to all the must-see ticketed attractions in Rome that are mentioned in this itinerary.

If you are not interested in climbing St Peter’s Dome, then this Rome Super Pass is a better option; it includes priority access to the Colosseum, the Roman Forum & Palatine Hill, Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel, an official audioguide for St. Peter’s Basilica (but no guided tour or dome climb), and also all public transport in the city.

READ ALSO: Where to Find the Best Food in Rome

TIP: If you have more time in Rome, be sure to check out our suggested itinerary for 2 days in Rome ! In addition to all the musts, it also includes a few hidden gems.

Good to know: This 1-day Rome itinerary can be done at any time of the year . The only things to keep into account are the heat (in the summer) and shorter days (in late fall and winter). However, we recently visited Rome in November , and – despite the fact that it gets dark at around 5 PM at that time of the year – we could enjoy the city just as much as in the other seasons. It’s actually nice to see all the landmarks nicely lit without having to stay up late. So yes, every season has its advantages.

If you are visiting Rome in the warmest months (June-August), you can also switch this itinerary around and visit the Colosseum in the morning before it gets too hot. On the other hand, the Vatican Museums are not air-conditioned, so it’s going to be hot everywhere, no matter how you plan your day… Be sure to pack a sun hat, sunscreen lotion, and drink lots of water.

To give you a better idea of where everything is, we created a map indicating all the places that we recommend visiting in Rome in a day. There’s no specific walking route in the city center – no matter which street you take, it doesn’t matter that much, as long as you get from one landmark to another. The purpose is to see all the musts of Rome in a day.

How to use this map:  Use your computer mouse (or fingers) to zoom in or out. Click on the icons to get more information about each place. Click the arrow on the top left corner for the index. Click the star next to the map’s title to add it to your Google Maps account. To view the saved map on your smartphone or PC, open Google Maps, click the menu and go to ‘Your Places’/’Maps’. If you want to print the map or see it in a bigger window, click on ‘View larger map’ in the top right corner.

Some practical tips & essential info

To make the most of your day trip to Rome, here are some useful tips:

• Start early and book the tickets/ tours in advance. Once again, if you want to see all these places and also visit the Vatican Museums, St. Peter’s Basilica, and the Colosseum inside, I highly recommend booking organized tours with a local guide. At a minimum, you really should get skip-the-line tickets and also do some research so that you know where to go and what to see, or you risk getting frustrated and not seeing much.
• Research your transportation options . Depending on where you are traveling to/from, you really should book your transfers to the city center in advance to save time and money. Here you can find transportation options from Civitavecchia cruise port , and here – from the main airports . See also our guide to airport transfers in Rome for more information.
• Wear comfortable shoes and be sure that your clothing is respectable (knees and shoulders are covered ). This is a must if you are visiting the Vatican.
• Pack a reusable bottle. There are lots of water fountains all over Rome where you can refill your bottles (free of charge). Ideally, you have one bottle per person, especially if visiting Rome between April and October. Something like this is perfect for travel, but any sturdy plastic bottle will do just fine (and there are also foldable travel models too).
• Don’t take big bags with you. A small backpack is ok, but ideally, you take as little with you as possible. You’ll have to pass airport-style security at the Vatican Museums, St. Peter’s Basilica, and also at the Colosseum and Roman Forum/ Palatine Hill, so the less stuff you have, the easier it will be. I always take a crossbody bag – it’s safer than a backpack and is much more practical.
• Pack a power bank for your phone and/or some extra batteries for your camera.

For more travel tips for Rome, take a look at our in-depth guide via the link below.

LEARN MORE: Tips for Visiting Rome

So, this is our suggested Rome itinerary for one day.

As you can see, it’s quite possible to see all the main sights in a short time, but only IF you plan well. It will be rushed, but you can experience the very best of Rome in a day.

Have a great time in Rome!

READ ALSO: Best Area to Stay in Rome

More travel inspiration for Italy:

• Best Places to See in Italy
• 2 Weeks in Italy (the most complete itinerary covering all the musts)
• Best Things to Do in Rome
• Rome Street Food Tour
• Best Rome Underground Sites
• 4 Days in Rome
• Best Things to Do in Venice
• 3 Days in Venice
• 1 Day in Cinque Terre
• Best Things to Do in Florence
• Best Things to Do in Milan
• Best Things to Do in Lake Como
• Lake Como Travel Tips & Info
• Bellagio, Lake Como
• Varenna, Lake Como
• Best Places to See in the Dolomites
• Best Hikes in the Dolomites
• … For more inspiration and destination guides, please check our Italy travel blog . We have lots of articles about a big variety of popular destinations in Italy. And if you are wondering how to plan a trip, this Italy itinerary should help you out. Have a great trip!

If you found this post useful, don’t forget to bookmark it and share it with your friends. Are you on Pinterest? Pin these images!

More 1-day itineraries for some of the nicest European cities:

• 1 Day in Amsterdam (Netherlands)
• 1 Day in Barcelona (Spain)
• 1 Day in Edinburgh (UK)
• 1 Day in Florence (Italy)
• 1 Day in Glasgow (UK)
• 1 Day in Lisbon (Portugal)
• 1 Day in London (UK)
• 1 Day in Madrid (Spain)
• 1 Day in Manchester (UK)
• 1 Day in Milan (Italy)
• 1 Day in Naples (Italy)
• 1 Day in Paris (France)
• 1 Day in Reykjavik (Iceland)
• 1 Day in Salzburg (Austria)
• 1 Day in Seville (Spain)
• 1 Day in Toledo (Spain)
• 1 Day in Venice (Italy)

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Julie Elliott

Sunday 3rd of March 2024

I booked the early morning Vatican museum and sistine chapel and it says breakfast included? Do you know what that means? I don't see that in the description for the tour itself. thanks Julie

Tuesday 5th of March 2024

Thank you for researching that for me! we will grab something there before.

Monday 4th of March 2024

@Jurga, ok I booked the one day in Rome exactly how you said to. lol so all the tours are the ones that you suggested and the times you said to do them in. Julie

Hi Julie, there are quite a few Vatican tours that include breakfast, so without knowing what you booked, it's hard to say much. Some tours include a buffet-style breakfast and others just some pastries and drinks. In general, breakfast in Italy is rather sweet and not a lot - a croissant or two and some coffee or juice. Don't expect something like a full English breakfast or bacon and eggs. Normally, you can find more information in the tour description. For example, this before-hours tour gives some details about breakfast in the very last paragraph under the 'full description'.

Tuesday 6th of February 2024

This website has been the best thing I could have ever found! 6 of us are going to Rome in June and I had no idea where to start we only have a day before we board a cruise so I was very nervous about planning this. I followed your plan to a T and got everything booked. Thank you for doing all the leg work for us. Julie

Glad to help, Julie. Have a wonderful time in Rome and enjoy your cruise!

Tuesday 18th of July 2023

Looking for 1 day tour of Rome, Italy by coach

Thursday 20th of July 2023

Hi Vijay, Rome is not really a city that you can easily explore by coach. Most attractions in the historic old town are best visited on foot and you'll also have to walk a lot at the places like the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and the Vatican. That being said, you may want to look into golf cart tours. There are some nice tours that show you some of the main sights in a few hours. Hope this helps.

Monday 26th of June 2023

If visiting all listed & choosing to purchase the tours, will you have enough time to video/take pics while on the tour? I have had some previous experiences where I took some tours and I felt like I couldn't video or take any pics. Also, if choosing to take public transportation vs taking a taxi, is it english friendly? or Foreign friendly? Or should we just use taxi/uber?

Tuesday 27th of June 2023

Hi, it really depends on the tour, but yes, on most tours we have been on, we had plenty of time to take pictures. The pictures in our articles are from our visits and we did quite a lot of tours in Rome. That being said, you have to take pictures when you can and while listening to the guide (it's easy to do since on most tours you have headphones). Once they are done with the explanation, they'll usually move on to the next area. So if you wait until the guide is finished talking, then you won't have much time left. As for public transport, again, it depends where, but yes, you should be able to get along using English. Taxi/uber can be faster and not necessarily more expensive, depending on where you are traveling to/from. Hope this helps.

This seems AMAZING! I will be going to Italy for the first time next year in May for a wedding. We will be traveling from Milan to Rome and figured to do a day trip. The Vatican was a definite must & this post gave me so much more to choose from. Thank you so much!!!

Glad to help. Have a great trip!

Rome in a Day Tour: Including Vatican, Colosseum & Historic Center

• See all the top sights of Rome, including the Vatican Museums, Colosseum and historic center (Piazza Venezia, Trevi Fountain, Pantheon, and Piazza Navona).
• With a carefully planned walking tour itinerary, we've taken care of all the details for a fun, hassle-free day.
• Enjoy swift entrance at the Colosseum and Vatican so you can spend less time waiting and more time exploring.
• Take the only group tour in Rome combining tickets for the Colosseum and Vatican with private transfer to the latter.

Tour description

Check all of rome's most unmissable attractions off your list in just one day..

As the famous saying goes, a lifetime isn't enough for Rome. But if you're eager to experience the most iconic sites in the city in a shorter amount of time, this Rome in a Day tour is calling your name. From the Colosseum to the Vatican—not to mention the countless must-sees in the historic center—we've crafted the perfect itinerary to ensure you see and do it all in one unforgettable day. The best way to see Rome is on foot, so get ready to do a lot of walking!

Discover history and art in the historic center on a walking tour.

Your Rome in a Day tour begins in one of Rome's most beautiful squares, Piazza Navona, home to Bernini's Fountain of Four Rivers. Your guided stroll through the historical center of the city continues past the Pantheon: a 1,900-year-old temple that has inspired countless buildings around the world throughout the centuries, including the U.S. Capitol.

You’ll also explore the most idyllic side of the Eternal City, the Rome of Audrey Hepburn and Federico Fellini, bursting with piazzas and fountains, gelato and photo ops. That includes the world-famous Trevi Fountain, where Fellini’s lovers cavorted in La Dolce Vita. The morning finishes at Piazza Venezia where you'll admire an impressive monument affectionately nicknamed "the wedding cake" by locals. You'll break for lunch, and even though it isn't included in the tour price, your guide will share recommendations for every taste and budget.

Explore the Colosseum with an expert guide.

After lunch, you'll reconvene with your guide and small group and walk to an overlook of the Roman Forum. Your knowledgeable guide will set the scene, introducing you to the ancient city and pointing out various attractions that you'll visit later on.

From there, you'll take advantage of express access Colosseum tickets to step into the iconic amphitheater for an insightful Colosseum tour of all the general access areas on the first and second tiers. Since there are never more than 18 people in the group, this is a unique opportunity to interact with your guide and learn about this spectacular structure in a way that's just not possible on your own.

See the best of the Vatican Museums, including the Sistine Chapel, with private transportation from central Rome.

Following your Colosseum tour, our Rome in a Day tour continues aboard a comfortable private minibus for a seamless transfer across the river to the Vatican.

Pre-reserved skip-the-line tickets allow you to avoid the extremely long wait to enter the Vatican Museums so you can get right into the highlights of the collection with your guide. Our specially designed itinerary showcases the very best of the nine miles of art and antiquities to make sure you're engaged and entertained throughout, while not missing any of the gems of the collection such as the Apollo Belvedere, Laocoon and His Sons, and Raphael Rooms.

You’ll end your full day tour of Rome in the Sistine Chapel. After we part ways, you can choose to spend more time in the Vatican Museums, soaking up the history and art surrounding you.

If you only have a short period of time to see the absolute best that Rome has to offer, our Rome in a Day tour is the perfect way to maximize your time and experience the wonders of the city in the company of an expert local guide and small group of fellow travelers.

Sites visited

Verified guest reviews, may 18, 2024.

Vincenzo was the absolute best tour guide we could have asked for. His breadth of knowledge surpassed the topics of our particular tour and was able to answer all questions we had outside our itinerary. He really made the tour and we are so grateful he was our guide. Truly skilled at his job.

May 14, 2024

Wonderful day with a wonderful guide - he had so much information which really helped understand & imagine how things would have been He managed the group very well and we had time for photos/toilets Highly recommend this tour

May 11, 2024

Very nice guide. Good English but she spoke a little fast to understand sometimes in the crowds.

May 10, 2024

Excellent tiur, friendly, knowledgeable guide

May 09, 2024

This was one of the best tours I have ever been on. It made our trip to Rome! Walking is the best way to go! Paulo was excellent. Well worth the money.

Know before you book

Similar tours, welcome to rome: city stroll with gelato tasting, best of rome walking tour with quick access roman forum & palatine hill, colosseum & roman forum with vip caesar's palace tour.

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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.

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Italy Travel Experts Tours and Vacations

How To See Rome in a Day: Multiple Itineraries

Sean Finelli Last Updated: June 19, 2023

Spend as much time as possible in the Eternal City. But if you only have a day, follow our tips on how to plan an action-packed day in Rome that includes the Vatican, Spanish Steps, Trevi Fountain, Pantheon, Colosseum, Roman Forum, and more. Here are three pre-planned itineraries to help you get the most out of Rome in a day.

Pro Tip: It’s easier to organize your trip when you have all your resources in one place. Create a “Rome” browser folder and bookmark this post. See our guide to Rome for more trip-planning resources and o ur  Rome in a Day Tour  for an easy and exciting day.

Not ready to book a tour? Find out if tours in Rome are worth it.

DIY Rome In a Day Itineraries

If you only have a day in Rome, you’re going to want to spend your time wisely. There are a lot of incredible sites to see and you’re definitely going to want to hit as many as possible.

We’ve planned three self-guided itineraries for you to choose from. Don’t want the hassle of figuring out where to go, how to get there, and queueing for tickets? Book our popular Rome In a Day tour .

• Rome in a day with lunch to go
• Rome in a day with sit-down lunch
• Rome in a day with Castel Sant’ Angelo

Itinerary: Rome In A Day with Lunch To Go

With this epic Rome-in-a-day itinerary, you’ll hit most of the Eternal City’s top sights. Get ready for an action-packed day beginning with the Vatican Museums and ending with dinner in trendy Trastevere.

1. Vatican Museums

Arrival: 8 am – Departure: 11:30 am

The best way to skip the long line for the Vatican Museums is by booking an early access Vatican tour with an art history expert. That way, you can get inside the museums an entire hour before the general public and see the Sistine Chapel, St. Peter’s Basilica, and all the best galleries, finishing up at about 10 am.

Address : Viale Vaticano |   Hours : Mon – Sat, 9 am – 4 pm; closed on Sundays

2. Spanish Steps and Lunch To Go

Arrival: 11:35 am – Departure: Noon

Created in the 18th century, the Spanish Steps are located in one of Rome’s most beautiful neighborhoods . The stairs are directly in front of Via Condotti, a world-renowned street for the fanciest haute couture brands.

If you’re looking to splurge (big time), shop on this street. After visiting the steps, grab a quick lunch. We suggest you get pizza al taglio (by the slice) and take a walk in the streets. It’s easy, fast, and delicious.

Address : Piazza di Spagna

3. Trevi Fountain

Arrival: 12:10 pm – Departure: 12:25 pm

Rome’s stunning Trevi Fountain is a short walk from the Spanish Steps. On a hot summer’s day, you may be tempted to re-create that scene from “La Dolce Vita” where Anita Eckberg waded into the water, but resist the urge. Trust us, a hefty fine will follow. Trevi Fountain is a pop culture icon as well as, arguably, the world’s most beautiful and recognizable fountain.

Address : Piazza di Trevi

4. Pantheon

Arrival: 12:30 pm – Departure: 1 pm

Only a five-minute walk from the Trevi Fountain is the Pantheon. One of Rome’s greatest structures, the Pantheon dates back to the second century A.D. and was commissioned by the great Emperor Hadrian.

Many scholars claim the Pantheon’s dome is the best-preserved structure from antiquity. Inside are the tombs of iconic Italians like Raphael and King Victor Emmanuel II.

Address : Piazza della Rotonda | Hours :   Mon – Sun, 9 am – 6 pm

5. Piazza Navona

Arrival: 1:05 pm – Departure: 1:15 pm

In the center of Piazza Navona is the Fountain of the Four Rivers, designed in 1651 by Gian Lorenzo Bernini. Also, the 17th-century baroque church of Sant’Agnese is located here, which was designed under the architects Girolamo and Carlo Rainaldi. Built over the first-century Stadio di Domiziano, Piazza Navona was paved over in the 15th century and hosted the city’s main market for almost 300 years.

Address : Piazza Navona

6. Largo Argentina

Arrival: 1:20 pm – Departure: 1:40 pm

Largo di Torre Argentina is most commonly referred to as the place where Julius Cesar died. Although this is a myth, it isn’t far from the truth. He actually met his end on the steps to the Theatre of Pompey, just a few blocks away.

Today, you can see the ruins of four of Rome’s oldest temples here, which date back to the fourth century B.C. There are also tons of cats here, as this is a modern-day cat sanctuary.

Address : Largo di Torre Argentina

7. Piazza Venezia

Arrival: 1:45 pm – Departure: 1:50 pm

On your way to the Colosseum from Largo Argentina, stop off in Piazza Venezia. Home to Trajan’s Column and the massive Il Vittoriano monument (nicknamed The Wedding Cake), Piazza Venezia is Rome’s central hub. Built in 1911, Il Vittoriano (Victor Emmanuel Monument) commemorates the first king who unified Italy. 

Address : Piazza Venezia

8. Colosseum

Arrival: 2 pm – Departure: 5 pm

The key to planning a visit to the Colosseum is to skip the line. There are two ways to do this: either buy your ticket online in advance or book a guided Colosseum tour . Your Colosseum tickets also get you a front-row seat to the ruins of downtown ancient Rome (the Roman Forum).

Address : Piazza del Colosseo, 1

9. Panoramic Elevators at Vittorio Emanuele Monument

Arrival: 5:15 pm – Departure: 6 pm

A fifteen-minute walk from the Colosseum, the Vittoriano features breathtaking views of Rome. The panoramic view from the terrace is only accessed using the elevators, which costs €7.

It’s a worthwhile expense though; the views are epic. From here, take the opportunity to admire the view over the Roman Forum, the historic center of the city, and beyond.

Address : Piazza Venezia | Hours : Mon – Sun, 9:30 am – 7 pm

10. Teatro Marcello

Arrival: 6:10 pm – Departure: 6:20 pm

A mini Colosseum that seated 20,000 people, the Theater of Marcellus was planned by Julius Caesar and completed by Emperor Augustus in 11 B.C., who named it after his nephew, Marcellus. The Teatro Marcello served as a model for the larger and newer Colosseum and was used into the fourth century as a theater.

Address : Via del Teatro di Marcello

11. Jewish Ghetto

Arrival: 6:20 pm – Departure: 6:40 pm

For over five hundred years, the living conditions in the Jewish Ghetto were unbearable and saw constant flooding. Now, it’s one of the most desirable areas of Rome. Enter the Jewish Ghetto on Via Monattanara and walk straight until you reach the Turtle Fountain.

Turn left onto Via di S. Ambrogio and take a walk. Look out for the gold plaques on the ground to commemorate Jewish residents who were affected by WWII. For more about this neighborhood, check out this video .

Address : Via Monattanara

12. Tiber Island and Aperitivo

Arrival: 6:45 pm – Departure: 7:55 pm

Walk across the oldest functional footbridge, Ponte Fabricio, in Rome and admire the views along the Tiber River. In the summer, thanks to the event Lungo il Tevere Roma , the nightlife comes alive with outdoor stalls and events on the banks of the river. Grab some refreshments at one of the stalls or walk to Trastevere and go to Alembic for a pre-dinner drink.

Address : Alembic Cafe

13. Dinner in Trastevere

Arrival: 8 pm – Departure: Whenever

If you’re staying in Rome for dinner, Le Mani in Pasta is one of the best places to eat in Trastevere. This authentic and traditional-style trattoria is well-known for delicious seafood, meat, and pasta dishes, all made from high-quality and locally-sourced ingredients. This lively osteria is always busy, so be sure to make reservations. If you trust the waiters, you’re in for the meal of your life.

Address : Le Mani in Pasta

Popular Rome Tours

Best-Selling Tour

Rome in a Day Tour with Colosseum and Vatican Museums

Our “in a day” tour is best way to get your bearings all in one day. Visit the Sistine Chapel, Colosseum, Trevi Fountain, and more with a licensed, fun English-speaking tour guide. They’ll add tons of insights and make the entire experience so much more memorable. Also, you’ll get a feel for the city, so it’s a great option on one of your first days in Rome. Bring your walking shoes and water bottle!

Best Price!

Skip the Line Vatican Tour with Sistine Chapel

One of our most popular Vatican tours since it is such an amazing value. Skip the line to get inside with a super-knowledgeable, English-speaking guide who will bring the museum to life with stories of the artists, popes, conspiracy, love, and even tragedy! This tour has start times throughout the day so you can choose when to visit based on your schedule!

Not ready to book a tour? Check out our guide to all things Rome as you plan your trip.

Itinerary: Rome in a Day with Sit-Down Lunch

If you’re planning a few days in Rome and want to compress some sightseeing into one day, consider trying this Rome-in-a-day itinerary with sit-down lunch. It comes with recommendations for places to have lunch, aperitivo , and dinner.

Arrival: 8 am – Departure: 11:30 am

The Vatican Museums don’t wait for anyone—the lines start winding around the block before 8 am. Get in line by 7:30 am to make sure you’re one of the first members of the general public to get in when the museums open at 9 am.

You can also buy a ticket in advance online to skip the long ticket queue. However, the best way to skip the line is by booking an early access Vatican tour with an art history expert. That way, you can get inside the museums an entire hour before the general public. 

2. Spanish Steps

Arrival: 11:35 am – Departure: 11:45 am

Created in the 18th century, the Spanish Steps are located in one of Rome’s most desirable neighborhoods. They sit directly in front of Via Condotti, a world-renowned street for the highest of haute couture brands.

This is the main shopping district in Rome—but the prices here are sky-high. An outstanding example of Roman baroque style, this is an excellent place to sit down and do some people-watching. But not for too long, you still have plenty of stops to go on your Rome-in-a-day itinerary.

3. Lunch at Ginger

Arrival: 12 pm – Departure: 1:15 pm

Only five minutes away from Piazza di Spagna, Ginger Sapori e Salute is a bistro restaurant celebrated for its fantastic food. In a bright and modern space, this restaurant serves healthy and fresh gourmet sandwiches, salads, and smoothies from sustainably-sourced ingredients. Pair your meal with some delicious Italian wine and recharge before you continue your day of sightseeing.

Address : Ginger Sapori e Salute

4. Trevi Fountain

Arrival: 1:25 pm – Departure: 1:35 pm

Rome’s most stunning fountain is a nine-minute walk away. On a hot summer’s day, you may be tempted to re-create that scene from “La Dolce Vita” where Anita Eckberg wades into the Trevi Fountain’s water. Don’t do it, the hefty fine isn’t worth it. If it weren’t so crowded night and day, this would be the most romantic spot in Rome. Legend has it that if you stand with your back to the fountain and toss a coin over your left shoulder, you’ll guarantee a return trip to Rome.

5. Piazza Venezia

Home to Trajan’s Column and the massive Vittoriano monument, Piazza Venezia is the central hub of Rome, Italy. Spiraling down this column is the story of Emperor Trajan’s victory over the barbarian empire of Dacia told in 155 scenes. Built in 1911, Il Vittoriano (the Victor Emmanuel Monument) commemorates Victor Emmanuel II, the first king who unified Italy.

6. Colosseum

Arrival: 2 pm – Departure: 5 pm

A perfect place to end your walking tour in Rome is the Colosseum. With a history that dates back over 2,000 years, this structure is where gladiators and wild animals fought surrounded by 60,000 screaming spectators. The key to planning a visit to the Colosseum is to skip the line.

There are two ways to do this: either buy your ticket online in advance or book a guided tour . Get up close and personal with ancient Roman history as you take a walk through the ruins in the ancient Roman Forum.

7. Panoramic Terrace Views

The Vittoriano, a monument with several names including “The Wedding Cake,” features breathtaking views of Rome. Only accessible via elevators, the panoramic view from the terrace is well worth the €7 cost.

Admire a 360-degree panoramic view of Rome that includes the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and St. Peter’s Basilica. What better opportunity to take some jaw-dropping photos to show your loved ones back home?

Address : Piazza Venezia | Hours : Mon – Sun, 9:30 am – 7 pm

8. Pantheon

Arrival: 6:10 am – Departure: 6:40 pm

Completed around A.D. 125 under Emperor Hadrian, the Pantheon is the best-preserved building from ancient Rome. The structure (and in particular the dome) reveals the skill and genius of the architects who lived and worked during the Roman Empire. A rare opportunity to step back in time 2,000 years, don’t miss seeing the Pantheon.

Address : Piazza della Rotonda | Hours : Mon – Sun, 9 am – 6 pm

9. Piazza Navona

Arrival: 6:45 pm – Departure: 7:15 pm

In the center of Piazza Navona is the Fountain of the Four Rivers, designed in 1651 by Gian Lorenzo Bernini. Also, the 17th-century Baroque church of Sant’Agnese is located here, designed under architects Girolamo and Carlo Rainaldi.

Built over the first-century Stadio di Domiziano, Piazza Navona was paved over in the 15th century and hosted the city’s main market for almost 300 years. Enjoy the street performers and do some people-watching before heading to get an aperitivo .

10. Aperitivo at Bar del Fico

Arrival: 7:20 pm – Departure: 8:20 pm

Just a two-minute walk from the center of Piazza Navona, Bar del Fico is a perfect spot to enjoy the grand tradition of aperitivo. At around 7 pm, order a drink and enjoy some small plates from the buffet of snacks.

Even though Piazza Navona is a big tourist magnet, locals love this offbeat restaurant. Since Italians typically eat dinner on the later side, a 7 pm – 9 pm aperitivo is completely normal. For the most authentic experience, go with a traditional Italian cocktail, like a Campari or Aperol Spritz, Bellini, or Negroni.

Address : Via della Pace, 34

11. Dinner at Cul de Sac

Arrival: 8:05 pm – Departure: Whenever

Close to Piazza Navona, the popular wine bar Cul de Sac offers an eclectic range of food, from traditional Roman dishes to Greek and Arabic cuisine. If you’re a wine lover, you’ll love this place because it offers well over a thousand wine labels of many varieties. Get an outdoor table if you can, the view of Piazza Navona is dreamy.

Address : 73 Piazza Pasquino

Top Colosseum Tours

Best Seller

Colosseum Underground Tour with Roman Forum and Palatine Hill

This is our most popular Colosseum tour due to the incredible access to non-public areas like the underground chambers. All admissions are included and it is lead by an English speaking licensed guided and Colosseum expert.

Customer Favorite

Special Access Colosseum Arena Floor Tour Through the Gladiator’s Gate

You’ll enter the Colosseum through the back door entrance avoiding lines and crowds, which is ideal! You’ll step through the gladiator’s gate and your English-speaking Colosseum guide will bring the stories to life. Next, on to the Roman Forum. All admissions are included.

Not ready to book a tour? Check out our  Rome Guide for more info.

Itinerary: Rome in a Day with Castel Sant’ Angelo

Did you know the Eternal City has a castle in its city center? With this itinerary, you’ll see the Colosseum and the Vatican Museums, stop by Trevi Fountain and the Spanish Steps, and end the day with the spectacular sight of Castel Sant’Angelo by night.

1. Colosseum

Arrival: 9:30 am – Departure: 12:30 pm

While it’s easy to romanticize history, life in ancient Rome was hard if you weren’t from the upper classes. To prevent civil unrest, Roman emperors provided an outlet for their desperation in the form of the brutal games at the Colosseum. Hence the expression, “Give them bread and circuses.”

Due to the amphitheater’s popularity, skipping the line is a must. Either buy your ticket online in advance or sign up for a guided tour. Depending on which Colosseum tour you book, you’ll gain access to areas that are normally restricted to the general public, including the Colosseum Underground, Arena Floor, and Top Levels .

2. Gelato Break at Flor

Arrival: 12:35 pm – Departure: 12:45 pm

If you’ve been to Italy, regardless of the time of year, you’ll know how important gelato is. Many gelato shops use artificial flavors that weaken the sweet dessert’s bold and tasty flavor. However, at Flor, you’re guaranteed to get high-quality artisan gelato made from the finest natural ingredients.

Address : Via Cavour, 337

Arrival: 1:00 pm – Departure: 1:15 pm

A trip to Rome isn’t complete without visiting the Trevi Fountain. One of the most jaw-dropping fountains in the world, it dates back to ancient Rome. when they created a highly-sophisticated network that brought water to Rome.

Not only did this ingenious system provide water to Roman baths and gorgeous fountains, but it also enabled the growth of the Roman Empire. Legend has it that if you stand with your back to Trevi Fountain and toss a coin over your left shoulder, you’ll return to Rome.

4. Spanish Steps 

Arrival: 1:25 pm – Departure: 1:50 pm

The most famous and beautiful staircase in Rome is the Spanish Steps. Designed by little-known architect Francesco de Sanctis, these stairs are a meeting place for all kinds of people.

In fact, the only reason that these steps aren’t the most romantic place in Rome is that they are crowded day and night. In the film “Roman Holiday,” this is where Gregory Peck’s character bumped into Audrey Hepburn.

5. Vatican Museums

Arrival: 2:30 pm – Departure: 5:30 pm

Did you know it would take approximately 12 years to see every item in the Vatican Museums? If you’re doing Rome in a day, you definitely don’t have that much time. We offer a skip the line afternoon Vatican tour at 2:30 pm that covers the Sistine Chapel, Raphael Rooms, St. Peter’s Basilica, and the Borgia Apartments. 

If you’d rather go alone, tickets are available in advance online. But be advised, there’s so much in these collections that without a professional guide, it’s easy to get overwhelmed.

6. Castel Sant’Angelo

Arrival: 5:50 pm – Departure: Whenever

After seeing the Vatican Museums, take a quick 15-minute walk to Castel Sant’Angelo. Walk down Via del Governo Vecchio and turn right on Via del Banco di S Spirito to admire Castel Sant’Angelo and Ponte Sant’Angelo at night.

Castel Sant’Angelo, also known as the Mausoleum of Hadrian, was initially commissioned by Roman Emperor Hadrian. He built the castle as a mausoleum for his family—later it was used as a castle by the popes around A.D. 400. Ponte Sant’Angelo connects central Rome to the castle, and when lit up, is one of the most beautiful things to see at night in Rome. Then, head to dinner or have some drinks first.

Address : Lungotevere Castello, 50 |   Hours : Daily, 9 am – 7:30 pm

Take a Rome in a Day Tour

Want to make seeing Rome in a day much easier? Check out our epic Rome in a day tour. You’ll hit the Vatican Museums, Colosseum, Sistine Chapel, St. Peter’s Basilica, Roman Forum, Pantheon, Trevi Fountain, and more!

Not ready to book a tour? Check out our  best Rome tours to take and why .

Here’s Where To Stay in Italy’s Most Popular Destinations

Rome , Florence , Venice , Amalfi Coast , and Capri

Best Hotels & Where to Stay

Reader Interactions

Comments (6).

January 8, 2019

This is nice Tawny. It’s very helpful to travelers who don’t have much time to plan their travel.

January 11, 2019

Ciao Agness! Thanks for reading our blog and we appreciate the support!

July 27, 2019

We followed this from Spanish steps to coliseum and loved it! Thanks

July 30, 2019

Ciao Jake! So happy to hear that. We’re glad we could help you experience the magic of the Eternal City!

October 2, 2019

Hi Tawny, You made my day with your blog on ‘How to See Rome in a Day’. Very informative and eases our stay during our visit to Rome. Thanks

March 3, 2020

I love short travels. Rome in one day is perfect for me. Your blog is probably one of the most detailed one I’ve ever read about Rome! Thanks!

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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

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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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ROME IN ONE DAY TOUR

All the must-see sites of rome in one full-day tour.

Tour Description

A spectacular overview of a fascinating city!

Whether you’re spending a day or a week in Italy, the “Rome in A Day Tour” provides an informative overview of the highlights of the remarkable Eternal City of Rome. With our accomplished English-speaking guide, you’ll acquire a wealth of knowledge in your time with us.

Our tour begins with the largest amphitheater of antiquity, the Colosseum. With reserved tickets, there’s no frustrating wait in line or wasting of precious time. Your guide will whisk you right inside to the interior seating levels. Construction of this Flavian amphitheater dates to 70 AD Outside you’ll see the famous triumphal Arch of Constantine, built in 315 AD to celebrate the victory of Constantine over Maxentius in the year 312.

Our tour continues to the Forum and ancient Rome’s central square. See the 1st Century honorific Arch of Titus, the House of the Vestal Virgins and the Temple of Saturn, the oldest sacred place in Rome. Visit the Senate House and the white marble triumphal Arch of Septimius Severus. Via the Sacred Way we’ll reach Capitoline Hill, the ancient Roman citadel. At its foot lies Il Vittoriano, Rome’s greatest marble monument celebrating the unification of Italy by King Victor Emmanuel II.

We’ll follow the aqueduct path to the ruins of an ancient Roman aqueduct before arriving at the world-renowned Baroque Trevi Fountain. Designed by Nicola Salvi in 1735, this lovely fountain was a prominent feature in Fellini’s La Dolce Vita. Toss in a coin, make a wish that someday you’ll return to Rome and be as happy as you are today.

Next, your guide will direct you to local restaurants for a satisfying three-course meal, pizza or hearty sandwich. After a brief rest, the tour heads to the Government District, to see Parliament and the Palace of the Council of Ministers. Marvel at the Column of Marcus Aurelius, an authentic 2nd Century architectural masterpiece.

A block away there is the Temple of Hadrian, built by Emperor Antoninus Pius, in honor of his predecessor. Behind the original marble columns is the meeting place of the local Chamber of Commerce. By way of a charming narrow street, we will reach the best-preserved temple of ancient Rome, the Pantheon. Here is the Tomb of Raphael.

We’ll cross the Ancient Baths of Nero to arrive in Piazza Navona, located on the site of an ancient stadium built by Emperor Domitian in the 1st Century. It is a stately square with churches and fountains, including the Fountain of the Four Rivers. Here we’ll see the work of Bernini and other 16th Century masters.

The Vatican is our last destination. We’ll cross the Tiber River to visit the Vatican Museums and Basilica of St. Peter. An informative high-quality tour of Michelangelo’s most famous works, the Sistine Chapel, Raphael’s frescoes and the popes’ apartments complete the tour.

At the end of the visit your knowledge of art will have been enhanced, and you will feel enriched by this unforgettable tour.

This tour books quickly, so please don’t hesitate to contact us for information and reservations at [email protected] .

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19 best rome tours of 2024: food, the vatican & more.

These top-rated Rome tours are led by experts who bring the city's history to life.

The Best Rome Tours

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Considered one of the world's best places to visit , Rome offers countless things to do and an endless selection of delicious cuisine. But given the overwhelming crowds and restricted access to ancient sites, it can be difficult to fully enjoy all that Italy's capital has to offer on your own. That's where a guided tour can help.

Based on recent traveler reviews and expert opinion, we've selected the best tours in Rome. Whether you're gliding past the Colosseum on a Segway or savoring Italian wine in the countryside, you'll benefit from fun and informative guides leading the way.

Editor’s Pick: What a Life Tours – Skip-the-line Vatican Small Group Tour

Price: Adults from 99 euros (about $108); kids from 94 euros (around $102) Duration: 3 hours

U.S. News independently paid to send Laura Itzkowitz , a freelance journalist based in Rome, on this tour to provide readers with an unbiased, first-hand perspective of what to expect. What a Life Tours – Skip-the-line Vatican Small Group Tour was selected by our team as an Editor’s Pick thanks to its popularity and favorable user reviews.

One of the largest – and most crowded – landmarks in the world, the Vatican Museums actually comprises 26 museums, plus various chapels and galleries, so while it’s a must-see attraction, it can be an overwhelming place to visit. The engaging guide leading this skip-the-line tour brought us straight to the highlights, starting with the Pinecone Courtyard and ending in St. Peter’s Basilica , where she showed us Michelangelo’s Pietà and explained why it’s the only work the artist actually signed.

Along the tour, you’ll see masterpieces from the Vatican Museums’ collection, including the ancient statue of Laocoön and his sons; the Belvedere Torso, which inspired Michelangelo; Greek Cross Hall; and the Round Hall, which contains a monumental bronze statue of Hercules. Other highlights include the Gallery of Candelabra; the Gallery of Tapestries; the Gallery of Maps, where the guide pointed out some fun facts about Italy in the 1600s; and the Sistine Chapel. Talking isn’t allowed in the Sistine Chapel, so the guide explained Michelangelo’s frescoes at the beginning of the tour. Our guide shared a deep knowledge of the artworks, and delivered her commentary with a sense of humor. However, the guide didn’t bring us to the Raphael Rooms; if this is a priority for you, you may want to book a different tour.

Tours generally operate Monday through Saturday; the first tour begins at 9:30 a.m. In addition to its variety of Vatican tours, the company also offers tours of the Colosseum and daylong tours of Rome.

Laura Itzkowitz

Why we love it:

• Groups are capped at 12 or fewer participants. 
• After the tour, stroll down Via della Conciliazione to capture perfectly framed photos of St. Peter’s Basilica.
• For a nice lunch nearby, book a table at Ristorante Arlù, a family-run eatery that’s been open since 1959. If the weather is nice, ask for a table outside on the charming cobblestone street.
• Prati, the neighborhood surrounding the Vatican, is popular for shopping, especially along Via Cola di Rienzo. Stop by il Sellaio di Serafini for a handmade leather bag, or Castroni for espresso and other gourmet foods to bring home.

Check prices & availability on:

Fat Tire Tours Rome – Rome Day Segway Tour

Price: From 73 euros (around $79) Duration: 3 hours

Hop on a Segway to see the Eternal City's many sights. After receiving your helmet and tuning in to a quick training session, you'll receive a headset to follow the lively commentary from the experienced Fat Tire Tours guide. Along the three-hour ride, you'll glide past sights like Trajan's Forum, Capitoline Hill and more. Plus, you'll don a virtual reality headset during your stop outside the Colosseum that reconstructs the famous arena's past grandeur. Travelers appreciate that Segways make getting around and seeing Rome's sights easier and more fun, especially for families with older teens. Reviewers also appreciate the engaging local guides.

Tours run daily at 9:30 a.m. Participants must be at least 16 years old and weigh between 100 and 260 pounds. Pregnant women are not permitted on this tour. The company also leads a night tour, which visits the city's illuminated monuments after sundown, among other outings.

LivItaly Tours – Colosseum Underground Tour with Arena, Palatine Hill & Roman Forum

Price: Adults from 159 euros (around $173); kids from 144 euros (around $156) Duration: 3 hours

Enjoy swift entry to the Colosseum underground and see the arena floor, Palatine Hill and the Roman Forum on this small-group tour. LivItaly leads up to six travelers to the restricted lower level of the Colosseum, where dungeons once confined gladiators and their opponents. In three hours, learn about ancient Rome's social order on Palatine Hill and everyday life at the forum. Travelers, especially those with children, agree that having a passionate guide with a deep knowledge of Roman history enriched the experience. Reviewers also appreciate the small size of the tour group.

Tours depart daily at multiple times beginning at 12:15 p.m. Book the company's 90-minute Express Colosseum Underground & Arena Tour if you're short on time.

The Best Rome Colosseum Tours

Laura Itzkowitz April 17, 2024

TopBike Rental and Tours – Ancient Appian Way, Catacombs and Aqueducts Park

Price: From 65 euros (about $71) to 89 euros (about $97) Duration: 4 or 6 hours

Travelers have been using the Ancient Appian Way for 2,300 years and you'll traverse it with a friendly, knowledgeable local on this electric bike excursion. Along the ride, you'll pass archeological sites, Christian catacombs and picturesque Roman aqueducts framing the unspoiled countryside. The tour covers roughly 17 miles, 60% of which requires off-road cycling, so TopBike recommends this tour for intermediate riders. Some tourgoers say you might not even break a sweat though, thanks to the ease of the electric bikes.

Tourgoers can opt for the Short Tour (four hours) or the Plus Tour (six hours), the latter of which follows the same path as the shorter excursion and also includes a guided tour of the Catacombs of St. Callixtus (or Saint Sebastian) and a stop at the Baths of Caracalla. Exact tour departure times vary by season, but you can expect to start around 9 a.m. TopBike also leads cycling tours within the city center.

Gourmetaly – Campo de' Fiori, Jewish Ghetto and Trastevere Rome Food Tour

Price: Adults from 93 euros (around $101); kids from 65 euros (around $71) Duration: 3.5 hours

Tantalize your taste buds on this Rome food tour, which covers three distinct neighborhoods known for their cuisine. As your local guide leads you through the Jewish ghetto, Campo de' Fiori and Trastevere, you'll stop by top-rated food markets, grocery stores, coffee shops, gelaterias and restaurants. Among the food samples included in the tour are fried artichokes, pizza, mozzarella, fresh pasta and gelato. Tours are capped at 12 participants. Reviewers call this a delightful experience thanks to the informative guides who offer an interesting lesson on Roman history, food and culture. They also recommend taking this tour on your first day in Rome to make the most of the guides' recommendations.

Tours are offered several times each day in the morning and afternoon. Note that the afternoon tour does not visit the Campo de' Fiori market (a highlight for many recent tourgoers). In addition to food tours, Gourmetaly also hosts cooking classes.

Eyes of Rome – Colosseum and Roman Forum Tour

Price: Adults from 453 euros (around $491); kids from 35 euros (around $38) Duration: 3 hours

With your private guide leading the way, you'll visit the Colosseum, explore the ancient city along paths that served the Roman Senate and learn the legends of the House of the Vestal Virgins. Tourgoers value the attentive guides who share history and lore in an entertaining way. They also say the tour is well-paced.

Tickets cover pick up at centrally located hotels and skip-the-line admission. Note that prices can vary significantly depending on the number of people in your party. A couple can expect to pay roughly $500 for tickets. Eyes of Rome also conducts private walking tours of the Vatican.

Private Tours of Rome – Vatican & Sistine Chapel Private Tour

Price: From $364 Duration: 3 hours

One of the best tours of the Vatican , this intimate excursion includes skip-the-line access to the complex and a guide who shares the Vatican Museums' top attractions in just three hours. See the artistic highlights in the   Gallery of Ancient Roman Sculptures, the Gallery of Tapestries and famous Raphael paintings. You'll then experience Michelangelo's masterpieces in the Sistine Chapel. Your guide will ensure you see the Pietà   in St. Peter's Basilica, the Apostolic Palace and the famous balcony where the pope delivers his blessings. Travelers praise the excellent guides who tailor the tour to groups' interests and keep children engaged.

Tours operate Monday through Saturday in the morning and afternoon. Ticket prices vary depending on your itinerary and group size. The company suggests you book at least one month in advance to ensure a specialist authorized by the Vatican is available. Private Tours of Rome also offers tours of the Colosseum and the Borghese Gallery, among others.

Courtesy of Roman Food Tours

The Roman Food Tour – Prati By Sunset

Price: Adults from 99 euro (about $107); kids from 90 euros (about $98) Duration: 4 hours

Devoted foodies skip lunch for the more than 20 food and wine pairings on this four-hour evening tour of some of Rome's top eateries. Throughout the tour, you'll feast on gourmet delights, such as homemade pasta, pizza, fresh cheeses and gelato. More importantly, you'll learn tips to enhance your knowledge and pleasure in Italian cuisine. Travelers praise the expertise of the fun guides who explain each dish's origin and quality with gusto.

Tours, which are offered daily multiple times starting at 3:30 p.m. The Roman Food Tour also offers day tours and cooking classes.

Rex-Tours – Rome City Segway Tour

Price: From 79 euros (about $86) Duration: 3 hours

Roll in comfort past many of ancient Rome's major sights on this three-hour Segway tour. Rex-Tours' expert guides lead up to eight travelers for an effortless overview of must-see landmarks, such as Capitoline Hill and the Colosseum. Reviewers applaud the knowledgeable guides who offer a wealth of information without overwhelming travelers. What's more, guides provide restaurant recommendations and tips for making the most of your visit to Rome, according to tourgoers.

The Rome City Segway Tour departs twice daily at 9:30 a.m. and 3 p.m. Travelers also recommend enjoying the company's evening Segway tour if you're visiting during the summer and need a break from the peak daytime heat.

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Eating Europe – Twilight Trastevere Rome Food Tour

Price: Adults from 114 euros (about $123); kids from 81 euros (about $88) Duration: 4 hours

Travelers suggest you skip lunch before this evening walking tour of Trastevere, so that you can savor the street food and sweet treats served at each stop. As you meander through the neighborhood (often compared to New York City's Greenwich Village), you'll enjoy mouthwatering bites of everything from classic supplì , or fried risotto balls stuffed with mozzarella, to porchetta, homemade pasta and gelato. Foodie guides share each chef's story and culinary traditions, along with tips on how to find and make the best Roman cuisine on your own. Reviewers praise the guides for their insider knowledge and gush about the quality of the food and wine featured on the tour.

Tours run daily at multiple times and there is a maximum of 12 people per tour. Eating Europe also operates a tour that explores Testaccio, considered Rome's "original foodie neighborhood."

Rolling Rome – Rome Squares & Fountains Golf Cart Tour

Price: From 100 euros (about $108) Duration: 3 hours

Avoid Rome's congested traffic and keep the family entertained on this three-hour, private golf cart tour of the city. Whizz past major sights in the historical center and piazzas Venezia, Navona and del Popolo, plus the Spanish Steps, the Trevi Fountain, the Pantheon and more. Since the tour is customizable, you can also ask the guide to take you to lesser-known spots in the city – a highlight for reviewers. Along with the knowledgeable and enthusiastic guides, reviewers appreciate the golf cart's ability to avoid traffic using Rome's narrow back lanes.

Tours, which can accommodate up to seven participants, depart daily at 9:30 a.m. and 3 p.m. One week's advance reservation is recommended. Rolling Rome also offers daylong golf cart tours, as well as a variety of Segway and electric bike tours.

Food Tours of Rome – Jewish Ghetto and Campo de' Fiori by Night Food Tour

Price: Adults from 89 euros (about $96); kids from 75 euros (about $81) Duration: 4 hours

Combine sightseeing with snacking and drinking on this evening tour of the Jewish ghetto and the Campo Marzio area. Fun, knowledgeable guides make seven stops for food and wine between explaining major historic attractions like Piazza Navona and Campo de' Fiori. Stop in delis, family-run shops and restaurants to sample gourmet cheeses and hams, pasta, espresso, and gelato. First-time visitors especially appreciate this informative introduction to the city and the family-run vendors featured on the tour.

Tours depart nightly at 6 p.m. Food Tours of Rome can accommodate some special diets with advance notice. The company also offers a dessert and sightseeing tour of Rome, among various other options.

Rome's Ultimate Free Walking Tour

Price: Free Duration: 2.5 to 3 hours

According to reviewers, this free walking tour is a great way to start your visit in Rome. During the nearly three-hour stroll, you'll visit several photo-worthy piazzas, the Pantheon, Ponte Sant'Angelo and Castel Sant'Angelo, among other sights. Guides, who have backgrounds in subjects like history and architecture, earn praise from reviewers for their entertaining storytelling and thoughtful restaurant and activity recommendations.

Tours, which are limited to 15 participants, operate twice daily at 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. In total, you'll walk less than 2 miles. According to the company, the tour is suitable for travel strollers and wheelchairs. Though the tour is free, it's recommended that you reserve your spot in advance via the company's website (guides do not wait at the departure point unless reservations are booked). At the end of the tour, you can tip your guide based on your experience.

Check availability on:

Courtesy of Secret Food Tours Rome

Secret Food Tours – Rome Food Tour

Price: Adults from 79 euros (about $86); kids from 69 euros (about $75) Duration: 3 to 3.5 hours

Dine your way through the historical center of Rome, visiting cafes, markets and shops for a total of up to seven stops. During the tour, you'll walk through neighborhoods like the Campo de' Fiori and the Jewish quarter with an enthusiastic guide who ties together history and insights about traditional dishes. The focus is on Italian-style dining: savoring the perfect cappuccino, sampling fresh pizzas and homemade pastas, pairing wines with a variety of cheeses, gelato and more. Travelers praise the guides' knowledge of Roman cuisine and the amount and quality of the food.

Tours depart daily at 11 and 11:30 a.m. An additional 5 p.m. tour may be available depending on the day. Private tours are also an option.

The Roman Guy – Privileged Entrance Vatican Tour with Sistine Chapel

Price: Adults from $119; kids from $56 Duration: 3 hours

Hoping to see the Vatican sans enormous crowds? This three-hour tour from The Roman Guy convenes at 7:45 a.m., allowing you to enter the Vatican Museums an hour before they open to the general public. First, relish the tranquil Sistine Chapel, which welcomes upward of 25,000 visitors daily during the summer. Afterward, follow your guide to museum highlights, including Raphael's paintings, the Borgia Apartments and the Gallery of the Maps. Travelers rave about the knowledgeable guides and say the opportunity to see the Sistine Chapel without the crowds is worth the tour price (though reviewers warn that you will still encounter quite a few other tour groups enjoying early access to the site).

Tours are available Monday through Saturday. Groups are capped at 14 people. If you're short on time, consider The Roman Guy's abridged Vatican Highlights tour, which last 2.5 hours.

City Wonders – Tuscan Countryside Day Trip from Rome with 3-Course Lunch & Wine Tasting

Price: Adults from $112; kids from $102 Duration: 12 hours

If you want to visit Tuscany while in Rome, but don't want to drive the approximately 175-mile journey yourself, consider this 12-hour excursion from City Wonders. You'll depart from Rome at 7:30 a.m. via an air-conditioned coach bus to see famous hilltop towns, such as Montepulciano and Pienza. You'll also visit the Renaissance church of St. Biagio before enjoying a three-course lunch and wine pairing in the famed Montalcino. Travelers say guides are informative and thoughtful, giving tourists ample time to explore the towns and take pictures. All agree that leaving the driving to a professional made the trip worthwhile.

Tours are offered daily. City Wonders also offers a variety of tours in Rome, including tours of the Colosseum, the Vatican and the Borghese Gallery.

Through Eternity Tours – Rome in a Day Tour with Colosseum & Sistine Chapel: Essential Experience

Price: From 1,345 euros (about $1,458) Duration: 6 hours

Conquer Rome in six hours with Through Eternity Tours. With your skip-the-line tickets , you'll visit the Colosseum, the Roman Forum and the Vatican Museums, including the Sistine Chapel and St. Peter's Basilica. Professional, engaging guides – all fluent English speakers – allow you to set the pace, absorbing as much history and archeology as you want at each stop. Travelers say you'll see much more on this half-day tour than you would if you were to visit each site on your own, as guides point out unexpected gems along the way.

Rates can vary considerably depending on the number in your party, and the company offers discounts for students and children. Bring stamina, a water bottle and wear comfortable walking shoes . When you're ready for more, try one of Through Eternity's other tours, such as its evening tour of Rome's piazzas and fountains.

Walks of Italy – Gladiator's Gate: Special Access Colosseum Tour with Arena Floor

Price: Adults from $105; kids from $99 Duration: 3 hours

On this three-hour tour, you'll enter the Colosseum through the "Gladiator's Gate" – the entrance that was once used exclusively for gladiators 2,000 years ago. Once inside, you'll enjoy 360-degree views of the Colosseum on the reconstructed arena floor as your guide shares the gory history of this famous landmark . Then, you'll bypass the lines to tour the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill. Highlights include the cremation point of Julius Caesar, senate buildings and the Temple of the Vestal Virgins. Guides win kudos from travelers for their ability to discuss dense history topics in an engaging manner. Reviewers say the tour flies by thanks to the guides' entertaining storytelling. They also appreciate the skip-the-line access to these must-see sights.

Tours, which are capped at 25 participants, are offered three times daily at 9:15 a.m., 10:30 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. Rates may vary based on the time of year, and they include all entrance tickets and the use of audio headsets during the tour. Walks of Italy also hosts cooking classes in Rome and organizes day trips to Pompeii and the Amalfi Coast.

Maya Tours – Skip-the-Line Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel Group Tour

Price: Adults from 45 euros (about $49); kids from 35 euros (about $38) Duration: 2 hours

If you're interested in visiting the Vatican Museums, but don't want to devote more than a couple hours of your Rome vacation to the experience, consider this kid-friendly tour. In addition to skip-the-line access, your guide will show you the must-see artworks, several courtyards and galleries, and the Sistine Chapel. Reviewers praise guides for their interesting and informed commentary (which tourgoers can hear via audio headsets). Parents are particularly impressed with guides' ability to engage children.

Tours are offered Monday through Saturday multiple times in the morning and afternoon. Maya Tours also operates longer, semiprivate tours of the Vatican.

You may also be interested in:

• The Best Hotels in Rome
• The Best Places to Visit in Italy
• The Best Italy Tours + Small-Group Trips
• The Best International Travel Insurance

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Rome One Day Tour | Rome Full Day Private exclusive Tour

Home » Rome One Day Tour | Rome Full Day Private exclusive Tour

Rome One Day Tour, Rome Full-Day Private exclusive Tour St. Peter’s Dome, St. Peter’s Basilica, Vatican Museum, Sistine Chapel, Sightseeing Tour, Catacombs Transfers, and Pick up drop off included. You will be picked up at 7:30 a.m. at your hotel in central Rome. Around 8:00 a.m., you will meet your tour guide in St. Peter’s Square. This […]

Rome One Day Tour, Rome Full-Day Private exclusive Tour St. Peter’s Dome, St. Peter’s Basilica, Vatican Museum, Sistine Chapel, Sightseeing Tour, Catacombs Transfers, and Pick up drop off included.

You will be picked up at 7:30 a.m. at your hotel in central Rome. Around 8:00 a.m., you will meet your  tour guide  in St. Peter’s Square. This incredible exclusive tour begins by climbing the largest dome in the world, designed in 1500 by Michelangelo.

Rome One Day Tour. Once you reach the lantern on the top of the Dome, at about 150 meters, you will enjoy the most beautiful view of Rome, the  Vatican City,  and Piazza San. You can take amazing photos and enjoy the perspective of a breathtaking panorama from here. The visit starts early in the morning to avoid the long waiting lines and access the Dome and the Basilica before the crowds, allowing you to visit without being disturbed. After the pick-up, the private guided tour begins by meeting your Guide in St. Peter’s Square, and once you have passed the security check and the ticket office, the Guide will take you to the lift to reach the first level on the roof of St. Peter’s Basilica. Passing through a small door, you can get a balcony and enjoy a breathtaking view from above of the interior of St. Peter’s Basilica, particularly Gian Lorenzo Bernini’s canopy, the largest bronze object in the world. Looking upon the top of the dome, the play of light from the sun rays that penetrate between the windows of the Lantern will allow you to admire the wonderful polychrome mosaics that decorate all the walls. The Guide will inform you about the dimensions, curiosities, and secrets of the most enormous Basilica in the world.

Around 10:30 am, With your private guide, you will reach the entrance of the Vatican Museums. Guided tour of the Vatican Museums / Sistine Chapel. Once inside, without queuing up, an exclusive guided tour of the most extensive art collection in the world will begin, which will end with a visit to the magnificent Sistine Chapel to admire Michelangelo’s frescoes. After the private tour of the Vatican museums , around 13:00, the Guide will drop you off in a restaurant/pizzeria for a lunch break. Around 14:00, the driver will pick you up at the restaurant or the meeting point previously agreed upon with the guide to transport you to the visit to the catacombs. Rome One Day Tour. A guided tour is preceded by a sightseeing tour aboard a luxury car or minivan with a driver to reach the Catacombs on the Ancient Appian Way and have a unique experience visiting one of the most incredible places in Rome. Once you get to the catacombs, you will join a small group. You will go underground, walking through tunnels at the sides of tombs, frescoes, niches, sarcophagi, inscriptions, all testimonies that the first Christians persecuted by the Romans left. Hundreds of thousands of people have been buried here, including popes, saints, and martyrs. The catacombs we will visit (San Calisto, San Sebastiano, or Santa Domitilla) can change depending on the opening or closing day. Along the way to the Catacombs, it will be possible to see the Circus Maximus, Castel Sant’Angelo, the Marcello Theater, Piazza Venezia, the Campidoglio, the Baths of Caracalla, the ancient Via Appia Antica, and many other important places. At the end of this magnificent private tour, the driver will take you to your  hotel in the center of Rome .

Rome One Day Tour. At this point, the Guide will show you the path to  climb to the top of the Basilica , give you free time to admire a unique view of the world in silence and take photos of the 360-degree panorama of all of Rome and Vatican City. The view from the Dome is lost in the panorama dotted with domes, bell towers, towers, spires, obelisks, statues, and roofs with splendid decorations. Among the many monuments of Rome, prominent and recognizable from the view of the Dome, you can see Villa Medici, Villa Borghese, the Papal Gardens, the Dome of the Pantheon, the Colosseum, the Colosseum,

And many, many others. You will have all the time you need to enjoy some memorable moments then; once you leave the Dome around 9.00 am, the Guide will accompany you, with direct access and without queuing, inside the Basilica for a great visit. Once you enter the Basilica, without queuing up, your Guide will take you to this beautiful place, unlike all the other visitors who have to do it. You can admire Michelangelo’s Pietà, the popes’ tombs made by the greatest artists in history, Bernini’s Baldacchino, and all the sumptuous decorations that adorn this Basilica’s incredible architecture. At the end of the tour of the Basilica, around 10.00 am, you will have time for a short break to enjoy an excellent cappuccino and relax for a few minutes.

Rome 1-day Tour | Rome tours are available by car, limousine, minivan, deluxe bus, scooter, bike, electric vehicle, or walking.

We take special care of our clients, and our tours are ideal for first-time visitors and experts. Our itineraries are personalized to your needs and are suitable for children or people with disabilities on request | Rome One day Tour.  Our tour guides are professional, friendly, and experts in art, history, architecture, archaeology, and  Gastronomy . Rome Customized Tours  | We are selected among the best official  tour guides in Rome , Vatican City, and Italy. Our tour guides are pleased to share the enthusiasm and knowledge to make your holiday in Italy memorable. Contact us with your preferred date to book your selected tour in Rome. Private tours are suitable for seniors, people with disabilities, and kids!!! Rome Tours | Skip the Line | Fast track entrance to visit the most important sites: expert tour guides, customized Tours itineraries, official tours, Rome – Italy.

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How to Plan an Unforgettable Trip to Rome, According to Local Experts

Whether your tastes swing towards art and architecture, high-end shopping and dining, or browsing markets and munching on street food, it’s an exciting time to visit Rome.

Elizabeth Heath is a writer and editor living on a hill in Umbria, from where she writes about travel in Italy, the rest of Europe, and farther afield.

Best Hotels and Resorts

Best things to do, best shopping, best nightlife, best restaurants, best time to visit, how to get there, how to get around.

Alexander Spatari/Getty Images

For me, the Eternal City is eternally fabulous. No matter how crowded it gets, how dysfunctional its current government is, or how many bad pizzas there are in ratio to good ones, Rome remains. It’s persisted and resisted for more than 2,775 years, and even at this ripe old age, Rome is still evolving. 

It’s an exciting time to visit Rome, and even for people who live there, the flurry of post-pandemic activity in the travel sector has been dizzying. “Archaeological sites that have been fenced-off for years are now accessible to visitors, there’s a host of innovative new tour options, and I can barely keep up with the number of absolutely stunning luxury hotels that have opened ,” says Travel + Leisure contributor and Rome resident Laura Itzkowitz, who also writes about Rome in her newsletter, The New Roman Times . “It’s a delight to see so much investment in the city and so many new ways to experience it.” 

No matter how you decide to see the city or whether your tastes swing towards art and architecture, high-end shopping and dining, or browsing markets and munching on street food, Rome gives you options. We asked Itzkowitz and some other Rome travel experts to weigh in on their favorite places and experiences to recommend in eternal Rome.

Top 5 Can’t Miss

• Swoon over the cityscape. Few things are as romantic as Rome at night from a vantage point like the Fontana dell'Acqua Paola or the Capitoline Hill.
• See marble turn to flesh. At the Galleria Borghese, Bernini’s lifelike sculptures are a gazillion times more impressive than what you remember from art history class. 
• Do the Full Monty of Italian dining. Bring your appetite and go big, with antipasto, pasta, main course, and dessert at a homey trat like Da Enzo da 29.  
• Get up early. At least once during your stay, request an early wake-up call to discover a deserted city. ArcheoRoma can lead the way. 
• Shop at a market. If you don’t buy produce, trinkets, or street food at a real Roman market like Testaccio or Campo de’ Fiore, have you been to Rome? 

Courtesy of Bettoja Hotels

Palazzo Vilòn

If there’s one thing our experts agree on, it’s that Palazzo Vilòn luxury apartment is the most sumptuous new address in Rome. Nicole Bono, luxury travel and events planner with Bono Events International says, “When they open the doors for you, your jaw will drop.” Gary Portuesi, a T+L Top Travel Advisor with Authentic Explorations , says that at Vilòn, “you get to live like a Roman aristocrat in an intimate palazzo in the best neighborhood.”

Singer Palace

“I'm in love with the Singer Palace these days,” says Bono of this 19th-century beauty in the former Singer sewing machine headquarters. “It's family-owned, and that is felt with every single detail in this property. You're truly cuddled from the moment you walk in the door till your last Spritz before you leave.”

Hotel de Russie, a Rocco Forte Hotel

T+L readers’ favorite hotel in Rome is also a hit with Portuesi, who raves about its “with its unique and secluded Mediterranean tiered secret garden walking distance from the Spanish Steps, Fontana di Trevi and Piazza del Popolo.” The hotel’s Stravinskij Bar remains one of Rome’s most elegant locales for a cocktail.  

Hotel Mediterraneo

Every time I exit Termini Station, I sigh with comfort at the sight of this trusty four-star in a fascist-era Art Deco building. Stepping through the doors feels like stepping back in time, in a good way, with old-school service, a delightful lobby bar, and humongous suites, some with skyline views of Rome.

Christopher Larson/Travel + Leisure

Basilica di San Clemente

For a real sense of how Rome’s history is layered like a lasagna, head to this church near the Colosseum — or rather, underneath it. An atmospheric archaeological area beneath the not-too-shabby 12th-century church holds an even earlier Christian church, which lies on top of a pagan altar and an ancient Roman apartment building.  

ArcheoRunning

If you’re a runner, join archaeologist, guide, and running enthusiast Isabella Calidonna on an early morning jogging tour through Rome's truly magical empty streets. (Trust me, it’s okay if you run slowly.) If you’re not a runner, don’t sweat it — she’ll be happy to do the same informative tour at a walking pace. 

Via del Governo Vecchio

Spend a late afternoon vintage shopping on my favorite street in Rome , then stick around for an aperitivo, followed by pizza and gelato. If that trifecta of Roman drinking and eating isn’t enough, this splendid street near Piazza Navona has a buzzy but manageable bar-hopping scene. 

Largo Argentina

Want to stand at the very site (or very near it, anyway) where Julius Caesar lost his life? Long visible only from street level and best known as a cat sanctuary among picturesque ruins, the archaeological area at Largo Argentina site is now open to the public, thanks to funding from Bulgari . The Curia of Pompeo, where Caesar got shivved, stands near the ruins of four ancient temples.

Galleria Borghese

Reserve your tickets in advance and prepare to be overwhelmed by the beauty here, both of the ornate salons of this noble palace turned art museum, and the amazing works inside, including Bernini’s spellbinding "Rape of Proserpine" and several Caravaggio paintings.

Testaccio Market

This sprawling covered market in the working-class Testaccio neighborhood offers an authentic slice of Roman daily life. Even if you’re not shopping for clothing, produce or fresh fish, stop for some of Rome’s best street food, especially a suppli at Food Box or a drippy panino at Modri e Vai. 

Itzkowitz is a fan of this artisan jeweler in Monti and even had owner Antonio design a pair of custom earrings for her wedding. If you don’t have time for a made-to-order bauble, the shop has many original designs, many of which feature colorful gemstones.

Essenzialmente Laura

For a real only-in-Rome gift or souvenir, Portuesi refers friends and clients to the perfumery of Laura Bosetti Tonatto, who’s made custom scents for celebrities, royals, and aristocrats, including Queen Elizabeth II. “You can create your own perfect perfume or find the scent you love,” he says. 

La Bottega del Marmoraro

It’s hard to imagine a store like this anywhere else — a tiny workshop on pretty Via Margutta where stone carver Sandro Fiorentino tinks away at marble plaques by hand. “I love to bring out-of-town visitors here,” says Itzkowitz. “Prices start at around 15 euros, which means you can find an affordable, handmade souvenir.”

Courtesy of Hassler Hotel

Fontana dell'Acqua Paola

Some of the best things in Rome are free, including the views from this monumental fountain high on the Janiculum hill. It’s one of T+L’s top underrated things to do in Rome . Fans of the Oscar-winning film “Rome, the Great Beauty” will recognize this majestic spot.

This classy bar offers great cocktails and light bites with a sublime view. “A table there in the stunning Piazza di Pietra,” says Bono, “with the incredible Roman columns all lit up is truly magical, and it feels like it's just there for you."

Hassler Hotel 7th Floor Terrace

The recipe for an unforgettable Roman evening: Start with panoramic city views from atop the Spanish Steps, stir in a specialty cocktail, garnish with some elevated aperitivo fare, and drink it all in at one of our favorite family-run hotels in Italy and one of the absolute best in Rome.

Da Enzo da 29

Despite its near-legendary status and the long lines for a table (Enzo doesn’t take reservations), Itzkowitz says a meal here is “worth the wait and lives up to the hype — every time.” She’s a fan of the handmade tonarelli cacio e pepe but says that the food here is consistently good across the menu. 

Trattoria Da Cesare Al Pellegrino

This new-in-2023 sister property of a neighborhood favorite in residential Monteverde brings hearty, traditional Roman pasta and meat dishes to the centro storico. “Run, don't walk,” says Bono, “because this city location is super charming, and tourists haven't found it yet.”

Pro Loco Pinciano

Portuesi says you’ll feel like a local at this super-casual pizza and pasta joint just outside the city walls, where the emphasis is on ingredients and wines sourced from the surrounding region on Lazio. Charcuterie platters are delicious and abundant here. 

L'Antica Pesa

Regularly named one of the best restaurants in Rome, this Trastevere culinary landmark is, per Portuesi, “a standard and consistent classic” and worth crossing the river for. Head here for a special dinner or when you’re ready to go big (before going home, maybe?) and order an appetizer, pasta (primo), meat, and dessert for the full Italian dining experience.

You’ve heard all the warnings about visiting in high summer, but if that’s the only time you have to visit, Itzkowitz says to do as the Romans do: rest in your cool hotel room in the afternoon and venture out again in the early evening. Bono agrees that summer can be...sticky but adds, “Those summer sunsets on a rooftop with an Aperol spritz certainly make for that 'Dolce Vita moment' we all crave.”

Portuesi recommends November, as it’s still relatively warm and the crowds have thinned out; January, when sale season starts; or April and October. “Tourists might still be there, but the colors of spring and autumn are amazing, and temperatures are on the warm side.” I love visiting in January or February when the crowds are much more manageable, and if you’re lucky, you can catch some lovely, crisp, sunny days.

Most visitors fly into Rome’s Leonardo da Vinci/Fiumicino Airport (FCO). From there, you can take a 30-minute non-stop train to Termini, the central station, and take a taxi, Metro, bus, or tram to your accommodation. A cab from FCO to anywhere inside the Aurelian Walls costs 50 euros. Ride-sharing services other than Uber Black are not available in Rome. 

Rome’s historic center is primarily flat and highly walkable. Many visitors take the Metro to reach the Vatican Museums, then walk back into the city from there (or take a cab from St. Peter’s Square). 

Buses and Metro, both run by ATAC , are also reliable ways to get around, though depending on the distance, walking may be faster. Note that taxis in Rome cannot be hailed on the street. Instead, they wait at taxi stands or ranks generally located near tourist areas. 

I strongly recommend against renting a car in Rome, as traffic and parking are a mess and the centro is a maze of one-way streets, many of which are pedestrian-only. If you pick up a car in Rome for a more extended tour in Italy, make sure you have your route mapped out in advance — and nerves of steel. 

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4 Days in Rome: Locals Reveal the Best Way to Spend a Long Weekend in the Eternal City

Zip around on the back of a vespa, feast on reimagined cacio e pepe , and visit an ancient archaeological site that most tourists skip..

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The Temple of Aesculapius, in the gardens of the Villa Borghese, dates back to the late 18th century.

Photo by Laura Itzkowitz

Baroque churches containing artistic masterpieces, gurgling fountains, cocktails clinking on rooftop terraces, freshly baked pizza bianca —these are some of the sights, sounds, and scents that await you in Rome. You could explore ancient ruins in the morning, eat spaghetti carbonara at a trattoria for lunch, and sip creative cocktails at one of the city’s coolest bars at night. Now, thanks to an influx of hip new hotels and restaurants, plus reopened archaeological sites, Rome is definitely having a moment . After nearly five years of living here and more than a decade of visiting prior to that, I’ve gotten to know the best of the old and the new. This itinerary, designed for a Thursday to Sunday, reveals my insider intel as well as that of a few local experts.

Thursday: Get your bearings with a Vespa tour and dive deep into Trastevere

Trastevere, home to the Piazza di Santa Maria, is still one of Rome’s buzziest neighborhoods.

Whenever my family and friends come to Rome, I tell them to do a Vespa tour with Scooteroma and everyone raves about it. Hop on the back for a three-hour tour and feel the wind in your hair as one of their professional drivers-guides shows you the sights. Its classic tour is perfect for first-time visitors, but it also has several themed tours, including a street art tour, cinema tour, and foodie tour.

The tour will end just in time for lunch, so ask your guide to drop you off in Trastevere, one of the most quintessential Roman neighborhoods . Once a working-class area, it has gentrified over the years, but is still characterized by narrow cobblestone lanes draped with ivy and laundry hanging from the windows of apartments. Maria Pasquale, an award-winning Italian Australian journalist and author of several books, including Eternal City: Recipes & Stories from Rome , has called the neighborhood home for more than a decade. For a quick lunch she recommends the take-out spot Supplì , saying it offers “a taste of true Roman street fare.” In addition to the supplì (fried rice balls with a breadcrumb crust), she recommends the marinara pizza, which she calls “thin, crispy, and super saucy, with just the right balance of garlic, herbs, and tomato.” Bring your food a couple of blocks to the Piazza di Santa Maria in Trastevere and take a seat on the steps of the fountain, which is like the neighborhood’s living room, where locals and tourists hang out, enjoy the sunshine, and perhaps smoke a cigarette surrounded by bustling sidewalk cafés.

Afterwards, if you need a pick-me-up, pop into Bar San Calisto , an authentic no-frills spot where you’re as likely to spot a group of old men playing cards as a young musician drinking a beer in the sunshine. Join the Romans having a quick espresso at the bar or take a seat at the tables out front for some prime people-watching. From there, you’re only a 10-minute walk to Villa Farnesina , one of Rome’s best and most underrated sites. Commissioned by the wealthy banker Agostino Chigi on the occasion of his marriage, the villa contains incredible ceiling frescoes painted by Raphael in 1518, which depict the marriage of Cupid and Psyche.

For dinner, Giorgia Tozzi, the general manager of Soho House Rome , and Maria Pasquale both recommend Pianostrada , which recently moved from its location near the Jewish Ghetto to Via della Luce in Trastevere. “Experience a Roman culinary revolution at Pianostrada, a local hot spot owned by a visionary team of women,” says Pasquale. For the four partners—autodidact chef Paola Colucci, her daughters Flaminia and Alice Spognetta, and their friend Chiara Magliocchetti—the move is actually a homecoming, as Pianostrada originally opened as a gourmet street food spot in Trastevere in 2014. “From tempura-fried zucchini flowers to artisanal focaccia topped with prosciutto and figs, each dish is a masterpiece of innovation and tradition,” Pasquale says.

Friday: Delve into Rome’s baroque glory in the historic center

Entry to the Pantheon is free on the first Sunday of the month.

Today you’ll set out on foot to see Rome’s most famous monuments and piazzas. Start early in the morning at the Trevi Fountain, since that tends to attract the most crowds during the day. From there, it’s a 10-minute walk to the Pantheon , which is Rome’s best-preserved ancient monument because it was converted into a Catholic church in 609 C.E. If you’re ready for breakfast, head around the corner to the Caffè Tazza d’Oro for a cappuccino.

Continue walking west and you’ll come to Piazza Navona, the city’s most beautiful baroque piazza, where you can admire Bernini’s majestic Fountain of the Four Rivers. The streets surrounding it are lined with shops, restaurants, and cafés as well as under-the-radar museums like Palazzo Altemps , which is one of the seats of the Museo Nazionale Romano housed inside a noble palace containing magnificent 16th-century grotesque (i.e., inspired by decorations found in ancient Roman grottoes) frescoes. (Definitely pop in if you have time!)

Head north on Via della Scrofa, which becomes Via di Ripetta, and you’ll find yourself in the posh area around the Spanish Steps, where designer stores vie for shoppers’ attention. Turn onto Via Tomacelli, then Via dei Condotti and in a few minutes’ you’ll arrive at Piazza di Spagna. Bernini’s boat-shaped fountain at the bottom of the steps is another eye-catching masterpiece worth noting before turning your attention to the steps themselves.

Take Via del Babuino and walk north toward Piazza del Popolo, the large round piazza with an Egyptian obelisk flanked by sphinxes spouting water. This was once the northern gateway to Rome, and it’s another fine spot for people-watching, as fashionable locals cross the square on their way to bustling Via del Corso. Get a table at Canova , which was famed filmmaker Federico Fellini’s haunt, and have a salad or panino there or duck into the swanky Hotel de Russie for a plate of ravioli cacio e pepe at Le Jardin de Russie, a favorite of modern-day movie stars and VIPs.

In the afternoon, head up into Villa Borghese—the green heart-shaped park just up the hill from Piazza del Popolo. Inside the park, you’ll find a small lake with rowboats, a replica of Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre, and a handful of museums, including the spectacular Galleria Borghese (make sure you book in advance, as timed tickets are required). Afterwards, head over to the Pincio Terrace to catch the sunset with spectacular views of the city.

Ready for dinner? Hop on the metro at the Flaminio stop and take it to Re di Roma to try slightly elevated takes on Roman classics at Santo Palato run by young chef Sarah Cicolini. “I head to this trattoria with a twist for my favorite carbonara in Rome,” says Zoe Shapiro, founder of Stellavision Travel , a boutique feminist travel company that organizes size-inclusive tours in Italy . “The menu changes each day depending on fresh and seasonal ingredients, but stand-outs [including carbonara and oxtail meatball with peanut sauce and cacao] remain consistent and are paired with a wine list that highlights the next generation of Italian winemakers,” says Shapiro.

Saturday: See the treasures of the Vatican

There are a range of tours on offer at the Vatican Museums, including special itineraries for deaf and blind visitors.

The best way to see the Vatican Museums without the crowds is on an exclusive 6 a.m. tour with the key keeper, but barring that the next best thing is to go when the museum opens at 8 a.m. Home to some of the greatest works of art ever created by human hands, the Vatican Museums actually comprise 24 museums, plus various galleries and chapels. It would take all day to see the whole thing, but stick to the highlights (the Sistine Chapel, Raphael Rooms, the Statues Courtyard, and the Gallery of Maps) and you can get out in time for lunch.

Most people make a beeline to Bonci Pizzarium , which has a reputation as the best place for pizza al taglio (by the slice) in Rome, but pizzaiolo/baker Gabriele Bonci also has an eponymous bakery in the neighborhood that’s a bit of a local secret. There aren’t as many different toppings on the pizza, but it’s the same recipe.

Spend the afternoon exploring Prati, the neighborhood adjacent to the Vatican. Developed in the early 20th century, it may lack the cobblestone charm of the historic center, but it’s a busy business and shopping area where Romans hang out. Bustling Via Cola di Rienzo is the neighborhood’s main thoroughfare, where you’ll find midtier stores like Benetton for apparel, Geox for shoes, Castroni for gourmet foods, and the department store Coin. In Prati, Tozzi recommends visiting Casa Balla , the home of futurist artist Giacomo Balla (tours must be booked in advance).

Sunday: Follow the footsteps of Rome’s ancient emperors

The Court bar offers enviable views of the Colosseum.

By now you’ve learned that Romans start their day with breakfast at a bar, but aside from the ubiquitous cornetti , the most Roman pastry is a maritozzo . Try one at the historic Pasticceria Regoli near Piazza Vittorio, one of the city’s most diverse ethnic enclaves, where many Asian immigrants have opened shops and restaurants. You can find goods imported from the Middle East, Africa, Asia, South America, and beyond at the Nuovo Mercato Esquilino . From there it’s a quick walk to the Colosseum . New for 2024 is the ability to visit the attic level, featuring panoramic views and the Colosseum’s water management system (but make sure you book a ticket that includes it in advance). The same ticket grants you access to the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill. You’ll need about half a day to visit them all.

Give your feet a rest at La Taverna dei Fori Imperiali , a family-run restaurant located on the edge of Monti, the charming neighborhood just uphill from the Forum. Try one of the quartet of Roman pastas ( carbonara , cacio e pepe , amatriciana , and gricia ) or a twist on them, like its version of la gricia with seasonal fruit.

Then for an alternative take on Roman history, join Stellavision’s Women and Secrets of Ancient Rome tour. “This walking tour showcases Rome’s Jewish Ghetto, Capitoline Hill, and Forum while centering the stories omitted by most tour companies and pulling important historical figures from the margins of history books,” says Shapiro. Or head over to Largo di Torre Argentina (the archaeological site where Julius Caesar was assassinated), which is now accessible thanks to new walkways.

If you’re ready to splurge on a fabulous aperitivo , book a table at the Court , one of the city’s most creative cocktail bars, which happens to boast head-on views of the Colosseum. Afterwards, take a taxi to up-and-coming San Lorenzo to check out a restaurant suggested by Tozzi and Shapiro. “ Mazzo shuttered five years ago and recently reopened in a new location with a menu that modernizes classic Roman ingredients and honors the city’s ‘ cucina povera ’ history,” Shapiro notes.

Where to stay

Soho House Rome is a hub for creatives in the artsy, up-and-coming neighborhood of San Lorenzo with a rooftop pool, an outpost of Cecconi’s, a screening room, and a gym with yoga and Pilates classes. Guests who book a room can access the private club’s amenities.

For a tried-and-true stalwart, check into the Hotel de Russie , a Rocco Forte Hotel, which is home to the aforementioned Le Jardin de Russie restaurant in the “secret garden” as well as the chic Stravinskij Bar, which is set to reveal a refresh this spring.

Or check into one of these 15 hotels we love in Rome , such as Hotel de la Ville (sister to Hotel de Russie) or newcomers like the Rome Edition or Six Senses Rome.

Why This Unique Tour In Rome Was My Favorite Way To Explore The City

R ome has a rich history and vibrant culture that can transport you to a different era. Long before I ever visited Rome, what I knew of the ancient city came from the movies. I’m a classic movie buff, and Roman Holiday , the 1953 romantic comedy, is my favorite film.

The story unfolds as Princess Ann, who, during a visit to Rome, escapes her guardians to explore the city. Enter a handsome newspaper reporter who whisks her away on the back of his Vespa. I’ll never forget the images of iconic landmarks in the eternal city whizzing by as the movie unfolds.

On a recent visit, I found that exploring Rome by Vespa Sidecar Tour can make you feel like you’re living a similar fantasy. 

My private Vespa Sidecar Tour was provided by Anantara Palazzo Naiadi as part of a hosted stay at the beautiful hotel. As always, all opinions are my own.

The Vespa Sidecar Tour 

The Vespa Sidecar tour offers a unique way to discover the city’s famous landmarks, hidden gems, and picturesque squares. As you motor through the bustling city, you can imagine yourself as Audrey Hepburn’s character, Princess Ann, embarking on her own Roman adventure. 

The company’s owner, Luca Di Trapano, explained that the Vespa Sidecar Tour was born in a flash of inspiration after 2 decades of giving tours in Rome. He thought the concept was genius but later learned his idea was 45 years too late.

The makers of the Vespa stopped producing the model equipped with a sidecar in 1968. Not easily deterred, he persevered and brought his dream to reality. Since 2018, Luca has welcomed over 20,000 passengers on board without a single accident. He told me, “It is like having sailed through the streets of Rome with four or five gigantic cruise ships!”

The tours are 3 hours, depending on traffic. The price is 110 euros per person (about $117) on the small group tour (12 guests max). You can take the tour solo as I did or with a companion or group. Trade places halfway through for a new perspective. A private tour’s price depends on the number of guests.

Here are several reasons why you should explore Rome on this unique Vespa tour.

Easy Meeting Point

Piazza della Repubblica is the tour meeting point. The square is well-connected and easy for drop-offs by taxis and vehicles. Take the subway Line A to the Repubblica-Teatro dell’Opera stop. It’s just a 2-minute walk from the Central Termini Railway Station.

Pro Tip: If you want somewhere to stay close by, I recommend Anantara Palazzo Naiadi Rome Hotel . A restored 19th-century, crescent-shaped palazzo, it fronts Piazza della Repubblica, where the Vespa tour starts. At the assigned time, I met my guide, Alessio, at the concierge desk. My chariot, i.e. baby blue Vespa, was waiting just outside.

The Iconic Landmarks Of Rome

Exploring the highlights of the Eternal City, we visited 12 sights, including the Spanish Steps, Piazza del Popolo, and the Borghese Gardens. There were several opportunities to stop, stretch our legs, and linger, including the Trevi Fountain and the Pantheon.

It’s A Blast!

When exploring the beautiful city of Rome, I loved all the astonished looks on people’s faces as we made our way down tight alleys and broad avenues. I felt like a movie star — everyone was smiling, waving, and snapping our photo. We must have been quite a sight; something special to share with family members when you get home.

Avoid The Crowds

What’s the best way to avoid crowds and see a different side of Rome? See it on a Vespa! If you’re fearless, you could rent one yourself. But my advice? Enlist a pro. You will feel much safer riding next to or behind someone who understands the ins and outs of Rome’s streets, where locals think traffic lanes are merely suggestions.

It’s A Beautiful Ride

The Vespa is a classic: These stunning coupes from Italy are iconic on the streets of Rome. Piaggio & Co. started making the Vespa after WWII as cheap, affordable transportation. Eventually, in 1953, the hit movie Roman Holiday showed the world how great a Vespa could be, resulting in record sales. Like the Colosseum, the Italian scooter has remained a part of Italy’s landscape. You will feel like an authentic Italian in the sidecar of a Vespa.

Unique And Unforgettable Way To See The Eternal City 

Unlike larger vehicles, a Vespa can easily maneuver through tight spaces, allowing you to see more of the city’s hidden gems and local hotspots. As you zip through the streets, you’ll experience the city in an exciting and unique way. Your guide will share his knowledge of the city’s history and culture, providing insights into the backstories of the pivotal figures in the Roman Empire.

A Driver And Official Guide Rolled Into One

My driver, Alessio, wasn’t just a history buff: He’s also an official guide, which means he’s been trained to lead tours and provide in-depth information on all the sites you’ll see. He knows how to keep you engaged, entertained, and informed, making your Vespa tour an unforgettable experience. Throughout the tour, he shared fascinating facts, historical anecdotes, and his favorite neighborhoods and restaurants. With his expertise and passion for sharing the city’s rich history, you’ll have a one-of-a-kind adventure that you’ll remember for years to come. 

Radio-Connected Modern Whispers

As we cruised along the streets of Rome, Alessio provided commentary directly into my ear through a modern whisper system. He pointed out the window overlooking St. Peter’s Square where the Pope makes his Sunday address. It was chilling to see the balcony above the Piazza Venezia, where Mussolini delivered his most famous speech, the declaration of war on France and Britain in 1940.

A Sense Of Freedom And Excitement

Take in Rome’s sights, sounds, and smells from the open-air Vespa sidecar. You can enjoy the warm breeze on your face, witness the daily life of Romans, and immerse yourself in the city’s timeless beauty. 

Pro Tip: Three hours is about the right amount of time to get a taste of Rome. I saw much more than I would in a walking tour, and it was a better experience than a hop-on, hop-off bus tour — we could go where large coaches could not.

I Felt Safe 

The guides are expert drivers and the top-class helmets have face shields and disposable head covers. The passenger wears a seatbelt with a shoulder harness. We traveled at the most 24 miles per hour; just the right pace. Once you are on board, your unease fades away as you sit back, hold on, and enjoy the thrill of exploring Rome on a Vespa.

The Hidden Gems Of Rome

Rome is one of the most beautiful places in Italy and a real bucket-list destination. But allow some time to visit the hidden gems many tourists miss. Janiculum Hill, called the “Eighth Hill of Rome,” is a beautiful, often overlooked area with the best views of Rome. It’s a bit of a climb on foot, but on a Vespa, sit back and enjoy the ride. Piazzale Garibaldi in the center has the Giuseppe Garibaldi Monument with a cannon that fires daily at noon. Don’t miss the 17th-century Aqua Paola Fountain.

Cappuccino And Cornetto 

After visiting the Pantheon, we stopped for a cappuccino and cornetto, the traditional Roman breakfast choice. Our baby blue Vespa was parked nearby and I enjoyed watching how much attention it got from passersby. On the afternoon tours, customers are offered gelato instead.

Unforgettable Experience 

This is the perfect gift for someone who has done everything and an unforgettable experience for curious travelers of all ages. You will carry home remarkable moments and fun memories. 

Would I recommend Vespa Sidecar Tour? Absolutely. If this had been my first time in Rome, it would have given me a good overview of the places I would like to return to for a deeper dive. I have been to Rome several times, but until now, I’ve never seen the eternal beauty of Rome from the seat of a Vespa sidecar. And the coin I tossed into the Trevi Fountain guarantees I’ll be back.

Related Reading: 

• 9 Ways To Avoid Looking Like A Tourist In Rome
• 7 Unexpected And Unforgettable Attractions You Need To See In Rome
• 7 Best Places To Indulge In Dolce Far Niente While Visiting Rome

This article originally appeared on TravelAwaits

The Ultimate 3-day Rome Itinerary

Last Updated: May 17, 2024

Wondering how to spend 3 days in Rome? Come, explore everything this ancient city has in store for you in this itinerary that will help you plan your next trip to Italy. This itinerary will take you through the ancient ruins of the Colosseum, the stunning Baroque architecture, and the spiritual heart of Catholicism and help you make the most out of your 3 days in Rome. Explore all kinds of hidden gems and have an absolutely unforgettable time with your friends and family as you take a journey through this beautiful city.

Day 1: Explore Ancient Rome

Start your trip by taking a step back into time and visiting Rome as it was in its glory days, here are some of the best places to visit in Rome .

Get ready to be mesmerised by the beauty and magnificence of the Colosseum. To fully enjoy your visit, you can opt for a guided tour. During the tour, knowledgeable guides will take you on a journey through time to ancient Rome, where you’ll learn all about the fascinating world of gladiators, chariot races, and other incredible spectacles that took place in the Colosseum. You’ll also discover the amazing engineering that went into building this iconic landmark.

Roman Forum

Just a few steps away from the Colosseum you’ll find the Roman Forum which is a bustling centre of activity that had played a significant role in politics, religion, and society during ancient times. As you explore the temples, government buildings, and basilicas, you’ll learn more about this country and its rich history and culture and learn to acknowledge its beauty. So, make sure not to skip the Roman Forum during your travels.

Palatine Hill

Climb up the beautiful Palatine Hill, which was once the home to Rome’s most wealthy people. From up here, you can enjoy breathtaking views of the entire city. It is a sight that has inspired poets and artists for centuries and will continue to do so in the future. While you are there, you can really immerse yourself in the history of the place and take in the amazing view of both ancient ruins and modern buildings that make up this eternal City’s skyline.

Take a stroll through the winding streets of Trastevere as the sun sets in a neighbourhood filled with history, art, and creativity. Trastevere used to be a home to artists and craftsmen and still maintains its bohemian charm with its brightly coloured buildings and secret gardens. Also, taste authentic Roman cuisine at a traditional trattoria where they use fresh locally-sourced ingredients and prepare delicious centuries-old recipes. Each dish is a piece of culinary heritage passed down through generations.

Day 2: Discover Rome’s Baroque Beauty

Dedicate or day two to exploring Rome’s architectural beauties of Baroque Rome where every street and corner is filled with masterpieces of Baroque artistry like elegant fountains to grand churches decorated with exquisite frescoes and sculptures.

Piazza Navona

Start your day by visiting the famous Piazza Navona, which is an incredible architectural marvel that displays the Fountain of the Four Rivers created by Bernini, and the majestic Church of Sant’Agnese in Agone. The square is always full of life and street performers and artisans can be seen showing their many talents here. So, lose yourself here and enjoy exhibitions of history, art, and culture.

You can continue your adventure and visit the amazing Pantheon. It is an ancient building that shows us a perfect blend of engineering and spirituality. You can stand in and appreciate its huge dome, which is an incredible piece of architecture that has survived for centuries. You’ll be stunned by the beautiful light and shadow patterns that dance across its vast interior, creating a breathtaking experience.

Trevi Fountain

Next, you can visit the famous Trevi Fountain which is a gorgeous masterpiece and attracts visitors from everywhere around the world. Here, you can relax and listen to the soothing sound of water in the enchanting atmosphere and witness people laughing and chatting all around you. Don’t forget to participate in a timeless tradition by throwing a coin into the fountain’s crystal clear waters. This will not only ensure your return to Rome, but it will also keep the eternal charm of this magical city alive.

Spanish Steps

Climb up the most beautiful set of stairs ever seen called the Spanish Steps. It has 135 steps that connect a beautiful square called Piazza di Spagna with an absolutely lovely church called Trinità dei Monti. They were built in the 18th century by a famous architect named Francesco de Sanctis. The stairs are lined with colourful flowers during the spring season and are really a sight to see. It has always been a great inspiration for many artists, poets, and travellers worldwide and once you reach the top, you can take a break and enjoy the breathtaking view of Rome’s historic centre. From there, you can also see the magnificent St. Peter’s Basilica.

Borghese Gallery

Be sure to take a trip to the Borghese Gallery and experience the unique beauty of Italian art. It is located in an elegant 17th-century villa. You’ll see breathtaking masterpieces by famous artists like Raphael, Caravaggio, and Bernini and their works that are displayed in the gallery’s grand halls. Try and notice the incredible use of light and shadow in Caravaggio’s paintings, and pay attention to the delicate brushstrokes seen in Raphael’s pieces, and the life-like sculptures by Bernini. And as you walk through each room you will discover something new at every turn.

Day 3: Take a Spiritual Journey to Vatican City

End your Roman itinerary for 3 days with a spiritual journey to what is called the spiritual epicentre of Catholicism, the Vatican City. It is the smallest independent state in the whole world and home to the famous St. Peter’s Basilica and Sistine Chapel frescoes.

The Vatican Museums

The Vatican Museums are a must-visit destination if you’re an art enthusiast or history buff. It is spread over nine miles of galleries and corridors and the museums exhibit a vast collection of breathtaking artwork, sculptures, paintings, and ancient artefacts. It’s a truly fascinating experience and offers an interesting peep into both the divine and human worlds. Millions of people come from all over the world to visit the Museums as it’s a journey that explores the mix of faith, art, and history.

Sistine Chapel

Enter the revered halls of the Sistine Chapel and experience the celestial splendour of Michelangelo’s great frescoes. On the ceiling of the chapel, you can see beautiful paintings depicting the creation of Adam and other stories from the Bible. And on the wall behind the altar, you can see a stunning painting of the Last Judgement. Stand in reverent awe beneath its soaring vaults, where the hand of genius meets the breath of divine inspiration. Michelangelo’s masterful brushstrokes and vivid colours transport you to the place where heaven and earth meet.

St. Peter’s Basilica

Climb the majestic steps of St. Peter’s Basilica, the most important church in Vatican City, and experience a journey of awe and wonder. Take in the Renaissance design with its columns and arches that recount stories of the past. Marvel at Bernini’s Baldacchino, a magnificent work of Baroque art that radiates beauty. If you’re feeling adventurous, climb to the top of the basilica’s dome for breathtaking panoramic views of the Vatican Gardens and the city below. You’ll get to fully appreciate the grandeur of Rome, a city that’s rich in history and magnificence.

Castel Sant’Angelo

Explore the fascinating history of Castel Sant’Angelo, a fort that has been guarding Rome for centuries. It was Built as a tomb for Emperor Hadrian and his successors, it later became a haven for popes during difficult times. This mighty structure has seen countless power struggles, sieges, and moments of survival, which have all contributed to the shaping of Rome into what it is today. This stronghold tells stories of Rome’s past in every stone.

Campo de’ Fiori

As your time in this beautiful city comes to an end, take some time to enjoy the lively atmosphere of Campo de’ Fiori. Here, you can treat yourself to a scrumptious dinner of wood-fired pizzas and creamy pastas before leaving Rome. This bustling square is full of vibrant market stalls and lively street performers making it the perfect place to indulge in some delicious Italian food while listening to great music and lively chatter of locals and tourists.

Your trip to Rome is sure to be full of history, art, and culture. From the ancient ruins of Rome to the beautiful Vatican City, you are sure to have an unforgettable time here every day and hopefully, this itinerary will help you plan and make the most of your time here in this beautiful city. So, plan your vacation now because it is the best time to visit Rome .

Resorts World Cruises Sets Sail in the Arabian Gulf

Harshal Anand

Harshal has two passions – travelling and writing. Combining the two, he now works as a travel writer, illuminating and guiding others on the best destinations around the world.

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I booked my tickets with getyourguide

5 replies to this topic

It would be incredibly disrespectful to even try and yes it would be enforced.

"Entry to the Vatican Museums, the Sistine Chapel , St. Peter's Basilica and the Vatican Gardens is permitted only to appropriately dressed visitors. Sleeveless and / or low-cut garments, shorts above the knee, miniskirts and hats are not permitted. The requirement of decorum extends also to any visible personal objects as well as similarly visible distinctive personal signs (such as, for example, tattoos) that may offend Catholic morality, the Catholic religion and common decency."

https://www.museivaticani.va/content/museivaticani/en/organizza-visita/consigli-utili.html

The Sistine Chapel is a church, so yes, knees and shoulders should be covered out of respect. Bring one pair of trousers with you and wear them that day. Yes, you will see some people somehow get in wearing shorts, but you do not want to risk being denied entry.

So, wear the trousers on the one day you go to the Vatican Museums and St. Peter's Basilica .

You are also expected to have knees covered in other churches out of respect, however, this is rarely enforced outside the Vatican.

Also, catacombs may also require modest dress as they are considered holy places.

It's a very strict rule and the guards will turn you away if you don't follow it. The sign outside shows that men are supposed to wear pants.

https://www.stpetersbasilica.info/Pics/SQR/DressCode-JG.jpg

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Mayor Adams meets pope, tours migrant center on trip to Rome

The mayor went to Rome, saw Vatican City and met the pope on a recent three-day trip.

Mayor Eric Adams was in Italy to attend the World Meeting on Human Fraternity, a global peace conference.

What You Need To Know

Mayor eric adams met pope francis on saturday morning in rome adams went to rome for a three-day trip that included visits to a migrant center and vatican city the mayor was in rome to attend the world meeting on human fraternity, a global peace conference adams also visited the roman colosseum and the sistine chapel on his trip.

The mayor's trip lasted from Friday to Sunday. On Saturday morning, Adams met Pope Francis.

“Clearly there’s something special about Pope Francis, just down to his interactions with you. It was clear how attentive he was,” Adams said.

Adams spoke to the pope for a few minutes and had some specific requests.

“Please pray for us as we deal with the many conflicts globally. The war in Sudan, what is happening in Haiti, what is happening in the Middle East. I discussed Robert Kraft’s organization to end antisemitism,” Adams said.

The mayor said the pope responded in the affirmative and then asked Adams to pray for him.

“I think that some people have a level aura and energy and the ability to just calm people in different situations, and I think that’s what he possessed,” Adams said.

The mayor said ahead of the meeting that he was excited to see the pope.

“In my prayers, I thank God for having the opportunity this morning,” Adams said.

Adams also delivered remarks to the global conference on Saturday. His speech focused on issues facing major cities.

“Mayors say it all the time. It’s a fraternity that many of us understand. It’s the same issues from housing to public safety to economic recovery to educating children to making sure our citizens are employable,” Adams said.

Adams used the last day of his trip to visit local communities and migrant centers.

The mayor started Sunday by visiting a migrant center outside of Rome. Adams said his goal was to see how Italy handled their own influx of migrants.

“Probably the top thing is how fast they are able to cycle the migrants and asylum seekers out of the welcome center. Within two months, they target folks into working, trained, teaching them basic Italian and moving them forward through the system,” Adams said.

The mayor said he plans to potentially use the best practices he saw in Rome back in New York.

On Sunday, Adams also made stops in Jewish and Muslim communities, visits that came as Adams has been dealing with pro-Palestinian protests and antisemitism in the city.

“As I moved from those different houses of worship, there was the same underlying theme. Be kind to your fellow man. Be there to assist them as they move forward. And let your faith be shown through you as you move about your daily life,” Adams said.

The mayor’s trip was funded by the foundation that hosts the conference. Adams returned to New York City on Monday.