Spending 2 days in Rome might not be enough to see everything, but trust me—you can still experience the best of the Eternal City without feeling rushed. From ancient ruins to stunning piazzas, delicious pasta, and hidden gems, this itinerary covers all the must-see sights while leaving time to soak in the magic of Rome.
In this 2-day itinerary, I’ll show you exactly what to see, where to eat, and how to make the most of your time, whether it’s your first time in Rome or a return visit. Get ready to walk cobblestone streets, admire world-famous landmarks, and eat your weight in gelato!
Best Time to Visit Rome
- Spring (March–May) and Fall (September–November): The best balance of good weather and fewer crowds.
- Summer (June–August): Expect high temperatures (up to 40°C) and large crowds.
- Winter (December–February): Fewer tourists, but some sites may have shorter hours.
- Special Year Alert: 2025 is a Holy Year, meaning Rome will be busier than usual!
Day 1: Ancient Rome & Iconic Landmarks
Morning: Step Back in Time
☀️ Start your day early at the Colosseum and Roman Forum
- Book a skip-the-line guided tour for an immersive experience.
- Marvel at the grandeur of the Colosseum, the largest ancient amphitheatre ever built.
- Explore the ruins of the Roman Forum, once the center of Roman political and social life.
- 👉 Book your tour here.
Lunch: A Meal with a View
🍝 Royal Art Caffè Roma
Located near the Colosseum, this terrace restaurant is the perfect spot to enjoy authentic pasta and an Aperol Spritz.
Request a table upstairs for stunning views!
Afternoon: Architectural Wonders
🏛️ Pantheon
It is a must-visit architectural marvel with its famous oculus.
Entry: €5, free for children under 18 and Roman residents.
🏛️ Piazza Venezia & Capitoline Hill
Climb up to Capitoline Hill for panoramic views of the city.
Evening: A Taste of Rome
🍨 Mr. 100 Tiramisu – The ultimate tiramisu lover’s paradise—with 100 flavors to choose from! I tried number 36, and it was really good. Tiramisu is my absolute favorite cake, so this spot was a must-visit for me!
⛪ Chiesa di Sant’Ignazio – Visit in the evening for fewer crowds and a breathtaking ceiling fresco. I went around 9 PM, and here’s a tip—you’ll need 1-euro coins because the mirror is blurry and the ceiling lights are off by default. Once you insert a coin, the lights turn on, but you only have 1 minute to take pictures before they switch off again!
🍷 Piazza Navona for Dinner – Dine at Ristorante Virginiae, known for its delicious pasta and relaxed ambiance.
Day 2: Vatican City & Hidden Gems
Early Morning: A Magical Start
⛲ Trevi Fountain
Getting to Trevi Fountain at 6:30 AM means you get to enjoy it without the crazy crowds. But if you’re here, you have to toss a coin—there’s a whole legend behind it!
💰 One Coin – Means you’ll come back to Rome.
💰💰 Two Coins – You’ll fall in love.
💰💰💰 Three Coins – Marriage or a serious relationship is in your future.
🎨 Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel & St. Peter’s Basilica
- A guided tour helps you skip long lines and uncover Vatican secrets. I had a really good tour guide who made the history come alive, but if you prefer going on your own, you can download the Rick Steves audio guide for an informative and flexible experience.
- Don’t miss the Sistine Chapel and St. Peter’s Basilica.
- 👉 Book your Vatican tour here.
🍦 Neve di Latte Gelato
Treat yourself to some of the best gelato near Vatican City, made with natural ingredients and lactose-free options. A perfect stop for a refreshing break after exploring the Vatican!
Afternoon: Hidden Gems & Riverside Views
🏰 Castel Sant’Angelo Walk along the Tiber River and visit this castel originally built for Emperor Hadrian.
🌇 Trastevere This vibrant neighborhood is perfect for an evening stroll. Stop at Trapizzino for their famous pizza pockets.
Optional Activities for Extra Time
Castel Sant’Angelo rooftop views
Shopping at Via Cola di Rienzo
Visit Galleria Doria Pamphilj
Where to Stay in Rome
- 💎 Luxury Stay: Hotel de Russie – 5-star elegance near Piazza del Popolo.
- ✨ Mid-Range: NH Collection Roma Fori Imperiali – Boutique-style stay with Colosseum views.
- 💰 Budget-Friendly: The RomeHello – Affordable, stylish hostel with a great atmosphere.
Final Thoughts: Is Rome Worth Visiting?
Absolutely! Rome is a must-visit city; if you plan well, two days is enough to experience its iconic sites and hidden gems. But trust me, once you’ve been, you’ll want to come back!
Would you visit Rome? Let me know in the comments!
