What to see in Rome in 2 days
The City of the Seven Hills is a cultural mosaic that has been pieced together over many centuries, and it would be impossible to try and visit its boundless wonders and attractions in just two days. However, if used well, two days in Rome is plenty of time to pound its streets and discover ancient ruins, revel in the splendour of the Vatican, contemplate the breathtaking Baroque churches, and lose yourself in enchanting neghbourhoods.
This guide is your definitive itinerary for everything you need to see and do in Rome over two days.
Itinerary day 1
10:00-13:30
St. Peter’s Basilica and Castel Sant’Angelo
Bernini’s colonnade welcomes you with open arms to the smallest state in the world — Vatican City — where the incredible St. Peter’s Basilica and the enormous Vatican Museums await you. Part of the museums, the awe-inspiring Sistine Chapel should be on everyone’s bucket list. On leaving, take Via della Conciliazione to the imposing Castel Sant’Angelo on the banks of the River Tiber.
14:00-15:00
Il Pagliaccio
Budget permitting, and if you are looking to spoil yourself, book a table at this fantastic 2-Michelin-star restaurant to savour some of the fusion delights prepared by chef Anthony Genovese.
15:30-16:00
Piazza Navona
Your next stop is one of the most beautiful squares in the capital — the long Piazza Navona is reminiscent of the ancient Stadium of Domitian that once stood on the site. Take time to admire the three fountains and the concave façade of the Church of Sant’Agnese, designed by Francesco Borromini.
16:30-17:00
The Pantheon
This classical temple, converted into a Christian church in the 7th century, is a phenomenal example of the Romans’ building expertise. Its monumental dome, measuring 43.44 metres in diameter, has a large oculus at the very top. Natural light pours in through this ingenious hole to illuminate the temple’s dark interior.
17:30-18:00
Trevi Fountain
The most famous fountain in Rome is just ten minues walk from the Pantheon. Embrace tradition and toss a coin into the water to ensure you return to the Eternal City.
18:30-20:00
Via Condotti and Piazza di Spagna
A perfect way to end this day of cultural tourism is by taking stroll along the elegant Via dei Condotti, where the most glamorous shops in the city are found. When you reach Piazza di Spagna, take the 135 Spanish steps to contemplate the fabulous rooftop view of Rome as the sun gently sinks behind them.
21:00-23:00
EnOsteria Capolecase
This small restaurant, located in a former grocer’s shop, is perfect for dinner or some typical Roman antipasti .
Itinerary day 2
10:00-13:00
The Colosseum and Roman Forum
The second day of your two-day tour whistle-stop tour of Rome starts at the most famous amphitheatre in the world, where legendary gladiator bouts took place. It then continues in the Roman Forum. Wander among the ancient ruins and let yourself be transported to the turbulent times of the Roman Empire.
13:30-14:30
Vinando
A great option for lunch near the Roman Forum is Vinando, designed as both a restaurant and wine shop. It is located in Piazza Margana and offers meat, fish and pasta dishes, as well as an excellent wine list.
15:00-16:00
Piazza del Campidoglio and the National Monument to Victor Emmanuel II
This beautiful square designed by Michelangelo and surrounded by three ornate palazzi, provides some of the most stunning views of the Forum. The nearby National Monument to Victor Emmanuel II is hard to miss. The colossal building has had its fair share of controversy due to its appearance and the visual impact it had on the city. As a result, it is often rather unkindly referred to as ‘The typewriter’.
16:30-17:00
Bocca della Verità
Apart from tossing a coin into the Trevi Fountain, another tradition among visitors to the city consists of putting your hand in the mouth of this bizarre sculpture. According to legend, it will bite down on the hand of anyone who tells a lie.
18:00-20:00
A stroll through Trastevere
Your two-day tour of the city would not be complete without a visit to the most charming of all Rome’s neighbourhoods: Trastevere. We suggest you just wander through the streets to discover its many hidden secrets. Don’t miss the bustling Piazza di Santa Maria, though. This square is the beating heart of the district.
21:00-23:00
Pizzeria Ai Marmi
Although there is always a queue to eat here, it is well worth the wait. The pizzas are prepared in the authetic Roman style with a thin, crispy base and cooked in a wood-fired oven.