How to Spend 2 Days in Rome: Full Itinerary

Known for its architectural grandeur, age-old constructions, and tantalizing restaurants, Rome is one of the most beautiful cities in the world. If you wanted to, you could spend weeks and months and still have new things to discover in the Eternal City. But if you only have 2 days in Rome, don’t worry! We’ve got you covered.

To help you make the most of your trip, we have created an itinerary with things to do in Rome in 2 days. You will visit all the city’s most famous attractions without needing to rush!

Read on to see our two days in Rome itinerary.

Tips For Spending 2 Days in Rome

Day 1: Ancient Rome

It’s no coincidence that the city is a true paradise for history aficionados looking to journey back in time and experience the intriguing wonders of the ancient world: Rome is home to a spectacular array of landmarks and ancient sites stretching back over 2,000 years.

If you’re one of these or simply wouldn’t like to miss out on the city’s most famous places, a tour of the city’s immaculately preserved ancient landmarks is a terrific way to begin your Rome 2 day itinerary.

The Colosseum

KEY INFO

Start with the Colosseum!

The Flavian Amphitheater, also known as the Colosseum, is the symbol of Rome. More than 6 million people visit the site each year, which was built 2000 years ago to commemorate the Roman Empire’s splendor. It used to host the wildest public events, gathering more than 50,000 spectators to watch bloody animal fights, gruesome gladiator combats, and other spectacles.

We recommend arriving with your tickets beforehand, so you’ll be able to skip the line and take the tour with a guide that will give you a wealth of practical information on the magnificent Colosseum.

The Roman Forum

KEY INFO

A short distance from the Colosseum is the Roman Forum. It is one of the world’s most important archaeological sites, serving as the social and commercial heart of the Roman Empire.

Commercial transactions were conducted in royal palaces, laws were enacted in government buildings, convicts were convicted, the empire’s most important decisions were made, and the public and religious lives of its residents were conducted in its squares and temples. Unfortunately, as the Roman Empire fell, the location was abandoned and transformed into a mound of ruins where goats and sheep roamed.

The remnants of the Temple of Saturn, the Temple of Castor and Pollux, the Temple of the Deified Caesar, the Mamertine Prison, and the Curia are among the important surviving structures in the Roman Forum.

Best Rome Vacation Rentals: Unique Stays For All Budgets

Palatine Hill

KEY INFO

Palatine Hill, sometimes referred to as Rome’s birthplace is a living museum. The location, which overlooks the Roman Forum, has been occupied since 1000 B.C. and contains the remnants of imperial palaces built for the upper class.

The huge Palace of Domitian, Emperor Domitian’s official residence, the House of Livia, noted for its beautiful murals dating from circa 30 BCE, and Domus Augustana, Caesar Augustus’ major residence during his reign, are among the highlights to see.

The best entrance to Palatine Hill is usually via Via di San Gregorio, where there is normally a shorter line. It’s just a short walk from the Colosseum, and worth it.

Fontana di Trevi

KEY INFO

Considered the most beautiful fountain in the world, the Trevi Fountain is an elegant baroque fountain designed in 1735 by Nicoló Salvi on the old aqueduct of “Virgin Water”, and your next step on your first day of visiting Rome.

The Trevi Fountain is undoubtedly Rome’s most famous tourist attraction. Only a 10-minute walk from the Roman Forum, the Trevi Fountain dazzles visitors with its show-stopping travertine statues depicting legendary creatures and allegorical themes. Pietro Bacci’s statue of Oceanus, who rides atop a chariot drawn by sea horses and escorted by tritons, is the real star of the show.

Aside from its stunning beauty, the “magical abilities” of Fontana di Trevi draw thousands of visitors every day: it is said that tossing a coin into the water will bring you back to Rome one day.

Pantheon

KEY INFO

After you’ve thoroughly explored the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill, and have thrown your coin to the Fontana di Trevi, your next stop is the Pantheon.

It’s the best-preserved ancient building in the entire city of Rome. Made in the 1st century before Christ by order of the consul Agrippa as a temple dedicated to all the divinities, it is currently a Catholic temple, and inside of it lies the remains of many famous Italian figures.

The Pantheon has what some call a “hidden greatness”: from the outside, it might seem small, but once inside you’ll notice how immense and imposing it is; a true work of art of engineering and architecture. An oculus at the top of the dome enables light into the inside, creating a magnificent sense of light and shadow on the mosaics and sculptures on the walls.

Campo de Fiori Market

KEY INFO

If you’re feeling ambitious enough, we recommend you make two final stops, beginning with the vibrant Campo de’ Fiori Market. This farmer’s market, located in the heart of Rome, is widely regarded as one of the best and oldest in the city.

You’ll come across charming merchants selling fruit and vegetables, meat, walnuts, and fresh fish while meandering around the market’s lively stalls.

If you’re a foodie, don’t miss the opportunity to visit the market in the springtime to sample the famed fried artichokes, which are frequently recognized as one of Rome’s best dishes.

Piazza Navona

KEY INFO

Piazza Navona, a 5-minute walk from Campo di Fiori, is a sight to behold. This lovely piazza was created in 86 CE as a gift to the citizens of Rome by Emperor Titus Flavius Domitianus, and it quickly became one of the city’s most beautiful squares.

There are several whimsical fountains there, including the Fontana del Moro, Fontana de’Calderari, and the magnificent Fountain of the Four Rivers, as well as bucket-list attractions like the 17th-century Sant’Agnese in Agone church and Palazzo Pamphili, which houses one of Rome’s most incredible private art collections.

Surrounded by historic buildings, bars, and restaurants, Piazza Navona is a great place to take a breather and people-watch!

Day 2: The Vatican City

The second day will focus on visiting Rome’s other must-see attractions, such as the Vatican Museums and Saint Peter’s Basilica. You will also walk to Castel Sant’Angelo, from which you may return to the city center, tying your Rome in two days with a perfect bow.

The Vatican Museums

KEY INFO

The city-state is home to a plethora of relics, ranging from unearthly basilicas to magnificent museums housing over 70,000 artworks. It is also the permanent seat of the Popes and the headquarters of the Roman Catholic Church.

The Vatican Museums feature a vast collection of works of art ranging from antiquity to the Renaissance; you could devote a whole day to them if you feel so inclined, but if you choose wisely, you can quickly see what appeals to you the most.

The Sistine Chapel is the highlight of any visit to the Vatican Museums. The vault contains some frescoes worth seeing, emphasizing Michelangelo’s work, which is without a doubt the chapel’s most iconic image.

St Peter’s Basilica

KEY INFO

St Peter’s Basilica in Vincoli was constructed in the fifth century to house the shackles that bound Saint Peter in Jerusalem. It is notable above all because it features one of the most technically perfect sculptures, such as Michelangelo’s Moses. The statue can be found inside Pope Julius II’s mausoleum.

You’ll have plenty of time to see St Peter’s Basilica, so we recommend pausing to admire Michelangelo’s Pietà, which is located in the first chapel on the right as you enter. Take time to observe the Baldacchino in the basilica’s middle, which houses the temple’s main altar, and while you’re there, pay a visit to Pope Alexander VII’s tomb and its spectacular group of statues.

The Spanish Steps

KEY INFO

And for your final visit of the day: Piazza de Spanga and The Spanish Steps. They are undoubtedly one of Rome’s most gorgeous and visited squares.

It is a lovely 18th-century square with an extended and triangular shape that is situated at the foot of the Pincio hill. The monumental “Escalinata de Trinidad dei Monti,” a meeting spot for young people, artists, and bohemians of the Italian capital, is connected to the church.

As you ascend the stairs, you will be treated to a spectacular perspective of the entire city.

The Spanish embassy to the Holy See, which has been located in this plaza for centuries, is responsible for the Plaza’s name.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many days do you need in Rome to explore the city’s neighborhoods and historical sites?

To explore Rome’s neighborhoods and historical sites, at least 4 to 5 days are recommended.

What must-do in Rome activities should I include in my travel itinerary?

When planning your travel itinerary for Rome, make sure to include a visit to iconic landmarks such as the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Pantheon. Explore the Vatican City, including St. Peter’s Basilica and the Vatican Museums. Toss a coin in the Trevi Fountain, stroll through Piazza Navona, and enjoy authentic Italian cuisine in Trastevere.

What to do in Rome in 2 days to make the most of my visit?

To make the most of your Rome itinerary 2 days, prioritize visiting iconic landmarks like the Colosseum, Roman Forum, Pantheon, and Vatican City. Explore the city center, try local Italian cuisine, and consider unique experiences like e-bike tours or food tours. 

Explore More