Rome Italy 2 Day Itinerary
Day 1: Ancient Rome and the City Centre
Morning
- 9:00 AM: Start your day at the Colosseum, one of the most iconic landmarks in Rome. Be sure to book tickets in advance to avoid long wait times.
- 10:00 AM: Explore the nearby Roman Forum, a sprawling archaeological site that features ancient ruins, temples, and basilicas.
Lunch
- Head to Trattoria al Moro for traditional Roman cuisine. Try their famous carbonara or amatriciana dishes.
Afternoon
- 1:30 PM: Visit the Pantheon, a magnificently preserved ancient temple that’s still used as a church today.
- 3:00 PM: Explore the charming streets of the Piazza Navona, a historic square with beautiful fountains and ornate baroque architecture.
Evening
- 7:30 PM: Enjoy dinner at La Gensola, a cozy trattoria serving delicious Roman specialties. Be sure to reserve in advance.
- 9:00 PM: Take a leisurely stroll through the Piazza Venezia, a vibrant square with lively street performers and cafes.
Day 2: Vatican City and the Historic Centre
Morning
- 8:30 AM: Visit the Vatican Museums, which house some of the world’s most famous art, including works by Michelangelo and Raphael. Be sure to book tickets in advance.
- 12:00 PM: Explore the Sistine Chapel, famous for its stunning frescoes painted by Michelangelo.
Lunch
- Head to Supplizio for a delicious lunch of suppli (fried risotto balls). Try their other Roman specialties as well.
Afternoon
- 2:00 PM: Visit St. Peter’s Basilica, the largest Christian church in the world and the central point of Catholicism.
- 4:00 PM: Explore the charming streets of the Trevi Fountain area, which features beautiful baroque architecture and lively street performers.
Evening
- 7:30 PM: Enjoy dinner at Da Enzo, a cozy trattoria serving delicious Roman cuisine. Be sure to reserve in advance.
- 9:00 PM: Take a leisurely stroll through the Piazza del Popolo, a vibrant square with lively street performers and cafes.
Other Recommendations
- Getting Around: Rome has an excellent public transportation system, including buses and metro lines. You can also rent bikes or walk to get around.
- Tips:
- Be sure to tip your waiters and bartenders (10-15% is standard).
- Try to avoid eating at touristy restaurants, which often serve overpriced and mediocre food.
- Explore the city’s many markets and street vendors for unique souvenirs and snacks.
- Accommodations:
- Consider staying in the historic centre or nearby areas like Monti or Trastevere for easy access to major attractions.
- Look for budget-friendly options like hostels, guesthouses, or Airbnb apartments.
Transportation
- Metro: The metro system is convenient and efficient. Take lines A, B, C, or D to reach most major attractions.
- Bus: Rome’s bus network is extensive and can take you to many areas of the city.
- Taxi: Taxis are readily available, but be prepared for long wait times during peak hours.
Things to Know
- Language: Italian is the official language, but many Romans speak English, especially in tourist areas.
- Currency: The Euro is the official currency. Credit cards and ATMs are widely available.
- Weather: Rome has a Mediterranean climate with warm summers and mild winters. Be prepared for crowds during peak summer months.
Other Activities
- Shopping: Explore the many markets and shopping districts, like the Castel Sant’Angelo area or the Piazza del Popolo.
- Food Tours: Consider taking a food tour to sample Rome’s famous cuisine and learn about its history and culture.
- Day Trips: Take a day trip to nearby areas like Pompeii, Florence, or Venice for more Italian adventure.
I hope this itinerary helps you plan your trip to Rome!