Rome, the city of seven hills, ancient wonders, and delectable cuisine, has always held a special place in my heart. Italy, in general, feels like home, but Rome? Rome is where I could truly imagine settling down.
Planning a trip to a city as vast and historically rich as Rome can feel overwhelming. With layers upon layers of history, art, culture, and culinary delights, it’s hard to know where to begin. Having visited Rome multiple times, even for short stays, I’ve gathered essential insights to help you craft the perfect Rome itinerary.
Planning Your Roman Holiday: Essential Tips
To make the most of your visit, some pre-planning is key. Here’s what you need to consider before you pack your bags for Rome.
Getting to and Around Rome
Upon arriving at Fiumicino Airport (Leonardo Da Vinci), Rome’s primary international airport, the Leonardo Express train offers a direct and efficient metro line to Roma Termini, the city’s central train station. This typically costs around $15-20 one-way and is an excellent way to reach your accommodation or begin your Roman adventure.
Taxis are readily available at the airport ranks, with fixed fares into the city center. However, be aware that these can be pricier, exceeding $50. For groups of 2-3, this might be a convenient option to share the cost.
Once you’re in the heart of Rome, walking is by far the best way to explore the majority of the iconic sights. For longer distances, consider taxis or the extensive public transportation network. While Rome has a comprehensive public transport system, it can be a bit intricate for tourists to navigate initially. A crucial piece of advice: avoid driving in Rome at all costs! The city’s traffic and narrow streets are notoriously challenging.
For more in-depth travel advice, be sure to check out my detailed Italy travel tips guide. It covers everything from navigating the Italian train system to understanding café etiquette and essential food tips, ensuring a smoother and more enjoyable trip.
Accommodation in Rome: Where to Stay
Rome offers a wide array of accommodation options to suit every taste and budget. For shorter visits, I’ve found the Piazza Barberini area exceptionally central, offering easy access to many attractions.
For longer stays, consider immersing yourself in the charm of neighborhoods like Trastevere, Monti, Parione, or Testaccio, each offering unique character and local vibes. Airbnb and boutique hotels in these areas can provide a more authentic Roman experience. Staying near Roma Termini can also be practical due to its excellent transport links via the “Termini” bus network.
On my last trip, I enjoyed a stay at the Barberini Dream, a delightful boutique hotel just moments from Piazza Barberini. Its uniquely decorated rooms and thoughtful touches, like in-room espresso machines, added to the experience.
Must-See Attractions: Unveiling the Best of Rome
Crafting your Rome itinerary depends on your interests and the time you have. To help visualize the city’s layout, here’s a map highlighting the locations mentioned in this guide, grouping attractions, food, and drink spots for easier planning. View the live map here
Remember to factor in travel time between sites, potential queue times, and the depth of your visit to each attraction. Realistically, aim for 2-3 major sights per day if you anticipate waiting in lines, especially for popular destinations like the Vatican Museums and St. Peter’s Basilica.
To maximize your time, consider pre-booking tickets online, which often allows you to skip the ticket lines and avoid disappointment if a site is sold out or has excessive queues.
Guided tours in Rome can significantly enhance your experience, providing deeper insights, access to special areas, and often queue-skipping privileges. Whether it’s an early access tour of the Vatican Museum and St. Peter’s, an exploration of the Colosseum’s underground, a food tour, or a cooking class, guided experiences can truly elevate your Roman holiday. Reputable booking platforms include Viator, Get Your Guide, and TripAdvisor.
For simplicity, I’ve categorized Rome’s key attractions into ancient, religious, and secular sites. While this guide offers a concise overview, each site has volumes to explore.
Ancient Wonders of Rome
Rome’s ancient sites are a testament to its enduring history, where every corner whispers tales of emperors, gladiators, and a civilization that shaped the world.
The Pantheon
Cost: ~$5 entry fee (as of 2023)
The Pantheon is an architectural marvel, believed to be the most complete ancient Roman structure still standing. Originally built in 20s BCE and reconstructed in the 100s AD, it stands as the oldest building in the world in continuous use. Its immense concrete dome was the largest in the world until the 15th century, a testament to Roman engineering prowess.
Since the 7th century, the Pantheon has served as a functioning church, the first pagan temple to be consecrated as a Catholic church. Today, it houses the tombs of notable figures like the artist Raphael and Italian kings. While there is now a small entrance fee, it’s an essential visit. To avoid long lines, try visiting during off-peak hours. Check the Pantheon’s official website for the latest opening hours and days.
For a truly magical experience, visit the Pantheon around sunrise. You’ll likely have the piazza almost to yourself, allowing you to fully appreciate its grandeur in the serene morning light. Pair your early visit with a coffee and pastry from Caffé Sant’Eustachio, just a short walk away, known for its exceptional coffee.
Walking towards the Pantheon, you’re enveloped by the palpable sense of history that permeates Rome. Even a simple street corner can evoke centuries of stories.
The Roman Forum & Palatine Hill
Cost: €16-18 (combined ticket with the Colosseum, valid for two days)
The Roman Forum (Via dei Fori Imperiali) and Palatine Hill are located between the Colosseum and Capitoline Hill. The Forum was the heart of ancient Rome’s political, religious, and commercial life, with origins dating back to the 7th century BCE, predating the Roman Republic.
Palatine Hill, one of Rome’s seven hills and oldest areas, offers panoramic views of the Forum, Colosseum, and Circus Maximus.
Visit the official website for up-to-date information on opening hours, ticket options, and online bookings. A guided tour is highly recommended to truly understand and appreciate the ruins and their historical significance.
The Colosseum
Cost: €16-18 (combined ticket with Palatine Hill, valid for two days)
The Colosseum is an awe-inspiring monument, the largest amphitheater ever constructed. Its nearly two-thousand-year history is rich and varied, from hosting gladiatorial contests and sea battles to serving as a cemetery and even a magical garden. Exploring its fascinating past is a journey in itself.
A visit to the Colosseum is a must-do in Rome. Walking around its exterior is impressive, but touring the interior is an unforgettable experience. To avoid the often lengthy ticket lines, purchase your combined ticket at the Palatine Hill/Forum entrance, which usually has shorter queues.
Consider a nighttime tour of the Colosseum for a unique and less crowded experience, offering a different perspective on this iconic landmark.
Arches of Titus and Constantine
Cost: Free to view
Just a short walk from the Colosseum, you’ll encounter the Arch of Constantine, the last great monument of Imperial Rome, dating back to around 315 AD. Its intricate details and dramatic presence make it a captivating sight. It was a powerful piece of political propaganda, adorned with inscriptions and depictions of hunts, barbarians, gods, and coronations.
Nearby, the older Arch of Titus (80s AD) commemorates events like the sack of Jerusalem. These arches are essential stops when exploring the Colosseum and Palatine Hill area, offering a glimpse into Roman triumphal architecture.
Castel Sant’Angelo
Cost: Free to view from outside; ~€15 entry fee (plus tour costs)
Castel Sant’Angelo’s classification as “ancient” or “religious” is blurred, reflecting Rome’s layered history. Originally built by Emperor Hadrian as his mausoleum, it’s one of Rome’s most significant monuments. It later served as a fortress, and a papal residence and refuge.
While I’ve always been fascinated by Castel Sant’Angelo from the outside, I’ve yet to explore its interior. While some reviews suggest the interior tour might be underwhelming, the rooftop terrace views are reportedly spectacular. Check the official website for current opening times and ticket prices.
Even from the exterior, Castel Sant’Angelo is impressive, especially when approached via the Ponte degli Angeli (Bridge of Angels). This bridge, adorned with angel statues, is a majestic yet delicate structure. It’s a popular spot for photos, so an early morning visit is recommended to avoid crowds.
Castel Sant’Angelo is also a prime sunset viewing location in Rome, especially when combined with nearby St. Peter’s Basilica. Grab a drink, find a spot along the bridge or nearby, and enjoy the Roman sunset.
Tiber Island / Isola Tiberina
Cost: Free to explore
The Tiber River, Rome’s lifeline, flows through the city’s heart. Isola Tiberina, a small island in the river’s center, offers a unique glimpse into the city’s ancient history. It serves as a charming link between Trastevere and the Jewish Ghetto, with delightful food and drink options on the island itself.
Tiber Island has intriguing origin stories, historically serving as a place of isolation during plagues and for criminals. Around 300 BCE, a temple to Aesculapius, the god of medicine, was built here to combat a severe plague, believed to be insulated from the disease by its island location.
A basilica, now San Bartolomeo, was built over the temple ruins a century later, and a hospital was established in the 16th century, continuing the island’s healing theme. Strolling through Tiber Island, especially when traveling between Trastevere and the Jewish Ghetto, is highly recommended. Walk along the riverbanks to fully appreciate its charm.
Skip: Bocca della Verita
Cost: €2 (approximate donation)
Unless you are a die-hard fan of the movie Roman Holiday, the Bocca della Verita (Mouth of Truth) is generally not worth the queue. It’s a minor attraction with often long waiting times.
Religious Sites in Rome
Rome, the heart of Catholicism, is replete with religious sites, but St. Peter’s Basilica and the Vatican Museums stand out as unmissable.
The Vatican Museum & St. Peter’s Basilica
Cost: St. Peter’s Basilica: Free entry; Vatican Museum: €17 (€21 online pre-booking to skip the line)
St. Peter’s Basilica, crowned with the world’s tallest dome, dominates Rome’s skyline and is one of its most visited sites. A church has stood here since AD 300, commissioned by Constantine the Great, and Catholic tradition holds that it’s built upon the tomb of St. Peter the Apostle.
Even if time is limited, visiting St. Peter’s Square is worthwhile. Explore the courtyard and admire the “four winds” bas-reliefs. Sunset is a particularly beautiful time to visit.
However, entering the basilica is highly recommended, despite potential queues. Early morning or late afternoon visits might offer shorter wait times, but lines can be unpredictable. Check this tourist information site for details on opening hours. Alternatively, a guided tour is an excellent option to bypass long lines.
Inside St. Peter’s Basilica, you’ll find masterpieces by Renaissance artists, notably Michelangelo. Admire Michelangelo’s Pietà (now behind protective glass), stand where Charlemagne was crowned emperor, and marvel at Bernini’s Baldachin. You can also ascend to the dome for panoramic views or explore the necropolis below (additional fees apply).
For stunning photos of St. Peter’s Square with fewer crowds, visit early morning or late evening. Note that dress codes are strictly enforced: both men and women must have covered knees and shoulders.
The Vatican Museums, a separate complex within Vatican City (the world’s smallest sovereign country), house an immense collection spanning 1,400 rooms and 3,000 years of human history. Exploring the entire museum in one visit is impossible, so plan what you wish to see.
To visit both St. Peter’s Basilica and the Vatican Museums, allocate a full day. Pre-booking Vatican Museum tickets online is highly recommended to skip the often extensive ticket queues. Guided tours of both sites can streamline your visit and provide valuable context.
Highlights of the Vatican Museums include the Gallery of Maps, Raphael Rooms, the Gregorian Egyptian Museum, and, of course, the Sistine Chapel with Michelangelo’s breathtaking frescoes. Check the Vatican Museums official website for opening hours and ticket information and consult this guide for tips on what to see. The Sistine Chapel is included with your Vatican Museum ticket; beware of scams selling separate tickets. While there is no “skip-the-line” access specifically for the Sistine Chapel, Vatican Museum skip-the-line tickets will expedite your overall entry.
Secular Delights and Iconic Landmarks
Rome’s secular sites, piazzas, and fountains are as captivating as its ancient and religious monuments, offering beautiful architecture and vibrant public spaces.
Trevi Fountain
Cost: Free (unless you toss in a coin!)
The Trevi Fountain, while not ancient (dating from the 18th century), is built at the terminus of an aqueduct constructed in 19 BC. It is Rome’s largest Baroque fountain and a globally recognized symbol of the city.
Legend says tossing a coin over your left shoulder with your right hand, facing away from the fountain, ensures your return to Rome. A second coin promises love, and a third, marriage. I always toss one coin, a tradition I almost broke on my last visit!
The Trevi Fountain is extremely popular and can get very crowded. Be mindful of pickpockets. While it’s beautiful any time, consider visiting early morning or late at night to avoid the biggest crowds.
Victor Emmanuel II National Monument / Altar of the Fatherland
Cost: Free entry; €7 to take the elevator to the top terrace
Often nicknamed the “wedding cake” for its elaborate marble design, the Victor Emmanuel II Monument honors Vittorio Emanuele II, Italy’s first king. Its construction was controversial, with some Romans finding it aesthetically jarring, but I’ve always admired its majestic presence.
The monument’s exterior is rich in detail, especially striking in the soft early morning light, which enhances the white marble. Midday sun can create harsh lighting for photos.
While going inside isn’t essential for a short trip, the monument houses the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, and the rooftop terrace offers panoramic city views (accessible via elevator for a fee). However, even a brief exterior viewing is worthwhile.
Piazza del Popolo (& Villa Borghese)
Cost: Piazza del Popolo is free
Piazza del Popolo is a diverse space, perhaps not a top priority for first-time visitors, but worth exploring if you have extra time.
Some visit for Santa Maria del Popolo, a basilica with Caravaggio paintings. Others come following the Angels & Demons Dan Brown novel trail (guided tours are available for this theme).
I enjoy Piazza del Popolo more for its unique atmosphere, geometric paving, churches, and sculptures. Climbing the steps towards Villa Borghese offers excellent views overlooking the piazza. (See detailed directions for finding the staircase in this Rome running route post).
Campo dei Fiori
Cost: Free to explore
Rome is filled with charming squares and bustling markets. Campo dei Fiori is a personal favorite, a vibrant market by day, overflowing with fruits, vegetables, and flowers. By night, it transforms into a lively hub with bars. Visiting both day and night offers contrasting experiences.
Wander through the market, soak in the atmosphere, take photos, and perhaps stop at the historic bakery Forno Campo de’Fiori for pizza al taglio.
Largo di Torre Argentina (the cats!)
Cost: Free entry (donations welcome)
Ancient ruins meet feline charm at Largo di Torre Argentina. This unassuming site amidst modern buildings contains remains of four ancient Roman temples and Pompey’s Theatre and Curia, where Julius Caesar was assassinated in 44 BCE.
It’s also a cat sanctuary, home to hundreds of Rome’s estimated 100,000-300,000 stray cats. The sight of cats lounging among ancient ruins is delightful. The sanctuary is supported by “gattare” (cat ladies), who care for these Roman strays.
Skippable: Piazza Navona (except at sunrise)
Cost: Free
While Piazza Navona is home to Bernini’s famous fountains, including the Fountain of Four Rivers, it’s often overcrowded with tourists, pickpockets, and overpriced restaurants.
However, it’s close to the Trevi Fountain and Pantheon, so a quick visit is easy. For a truly enjoyable experience, visit Piazza Navona at sunrise to have it virtually to yourself.
Skippable: Piazza Barberini
While Piazza Barberini’s fountain is lovely, it’s not a must-see if your time is limited.
Skip: Spanish Steps
Cost: Free to view, but fines for sitting
The Spanish Steps are often overrated and overly crowded. They are generally underwhelming and not worth going out of your way for. Sitting on the steps is now prohibited and can incur a €400 fine.
If you enjoy people-watching on steps, consider the steps in front of Fontana del Ponte Sisto in Piazza Trilussa instead, offering a more local and relaxed atmosphere.
Take Time to Wander & Explore Hidden Gems
Beyond the famous landmarks, one of the best things to do in Rome is simply wander. Explore the smaller streets and alleys, filled with charm and glimpses of daily life.
Get lost in the maze-like streets, discover small fountains, ornate door knockers, quiet churches, and mosaics in the pavement.
Take breaks at sidewalk cafés for coffee and pastries, or enjoy wine and snacks while people-watching. Embrace the Roman way of life.
On my last visit, I discovered Via Giulia, a peaceful street lined with churches, elegant houses, and charming details. Neighborhoods like Monti and Trastevere are also ideal for aimless exploration.
Trastevere, once a hidden gem, is now a popular recommendation. It’s worth a walk, including Piazza di Santa Maria. For city views, climb Janiculum Hill. Stick to residential areas for the most photogenic and authentic Roman experience.
Stroll Along the Tiber River
The Tiber River, winding through Rome, is an experience in itself. Even if it’s not the most direct route, walk along the riverbanks and explore the lower walking/biking path for a unique perspective of the city.
Fun fact: You’ll see “SPQR” stamped throughout Rome—on manhole covers, lamp posts, etc. It stands for Senatus Populusque Romanus (“The Senate and People of Rome”), the emblem of the Roman Empire, still used today.
Consider a Food Tour
Cost: Varies
Food tours are a fantastic way to experience a city’s culinary scene. While a past food tour in Rome was just “okay,” I recently tried Devour Tours and highly recommend them. Their Jewish Quarter walking tour was excellent—small groups, local guides, and delicious food!
Rome After Dark: Nightlife and Sunset Spots
Rome transforms into a magical city at night. Don’t let jet lag keep you indoors! Get out and explore.
Experiencing Rome at Night
Enjoy gelato in illuminated piazzas, find a rooftop bar for aperitivo, dine in the Jewish Ghetto, or admire Castel Sant’Angelo’s reflections on the Tiber. The Trevi Fountain takes on a different glow at night.
Neighborhoods like Trastevere, Testaccio, and Pigneto are particularly vibrant in the evening, perfect for dinner and evening strolls.
Nighttime tours are also available for sites like the Colosseum, Catacombs, and St. Peter’s/Vatican City (Fridays).
Best Sunrise and Sunset Viewing Points
Rome is enchanting at both sunrise and sunset. Early morning and late afternoon light is ideal for photography, avoiding harsh midday sun.
Early morning offers quieter visits to even the busiest attractions. Sunrise at the Pantheon is magical, and the Vittorio Emmanuel monument also shines beautifully in early light. Castel Sant’Angelo likely offers stunning sunrise views too.
For sunset, Ponte degli Angeli at Castel Sant’Angelo and then St. Peter’s Basilica are top choices. While you can go to Castel Sant’Angelo’s rooftop, the bridge offers a more intimate sunset experience.
Rooftop bars and high vantage points like Terrazza del Pincio and Terrazza Viale del Belvedere above Piazza del Popolo are also excellent for sunset views. Get there early to secure a good spot.
Indulge in Roman Flavors: Where to Eat and Drink
Roman cuisine is a highlight of any visit! Avoid tourist traps by doing a little research. I aim to explore Rome’s food scene further, but here’s a starter guide.
Coffee, Pastries, Breakfast & Lunch Spots
Bar La Licata in Monti is great for coffee and almond croissants. They also offer American-style breakfasts.
Roscioli Caffè Pasticceria is a local institution for coffee and pastries.
Sant’Eustachio Il Caffè, near the Pantheon and Piazza Navona, is a historic café roasting its own beans for decades. Try their coffee and pastries—arrive early as it’s popular!
Must-Try Roman Dishes
For authentic Roman dining, reservations are essential, especially for dinner and weekends. Touristy restaurants often lack quality.
Focus on local Roman and Lazio specialties:
- Pasta carbonara
- Cacio e pepe pasta
- Baccala alla Romana (fried salted cod)
- Pizza bianca (focaccia with olive oil and salt)
- Pizza al taglio (pizza by the slice)
- Suppli (fried rice balls)
- Carciofi alla giudia (Jewish-style artichokes)
Forno Campo de’Fiori is a historic bakery for pizza al taglio, suppli, and baked goods.
Ditirambo Roma, near Campo dei Fiori, was a good last-minute dinner option when I hadn’t made reservations. However, always aim to book ahead!
Two highly recommended pizza places I missed are The Pizzarium and La Pizza del Teatro.
Gelato Recommendations
For good gelato, look for fresh, real ingredients, not artificial colors or flavors. Fruit flavors should have muted, natural colors (lemon: pale yellow, banana: beige). Avoid gelato piled high in mounds above containers, plastic tubs, and places with too many flavors, which often indicates less fresh gelato.
Gelateria del Teatro (two locations) is highly recommended for its quality ingredients and unique flavors. I enjoyed pear-caramel and rosemary-honey-lemon (though flavors vary).
Gelateria Giolitti and Punto Gelato are also excellent choices I wanted to try.
Rome truly offers an abundance of experiences. I hope this guide inspires your Roman adventure! Do you have any questions? Share them in the comments below!
Other deep-dive travel guides you’ll love:
Pin for later!
