Rome, the Eternal City, is a place where history, art, and culture converge to create an experience unlike any other. With its ancient ruins, majestic churches, vibrant piazzas, and culinary delights, it’s no wonder that Rome remains one of the most visited cities in the world.
Rome, the Eternal City, is a place where history, art, and culture converge to create an experience unlike any other. With its ancient ruins, majestic churches, vibrant piazzas, and culinary delights, it’s no wonder that Rome remains one of the most visited cities in the world.
Spending just 48 hours in Rome might seem like a daunting task given the city’s wealth of attractions, but with the right planning, you can experience its essence and uncover some of its most iconic sites. From the grandeur of the Vatican to the romantic allure of the Trevi Fountain, this itinerary is designed to maximize your time while allowing you to savour the city’s unique charm.
By carefully curating your stops and balancing iconic landmarks with hidden gems, you’ll leave Rome feeling inspired, enriched, and eager to return. So lace up your walking shoes, prepare your taste buds, and get ready for an unforgettable Roman adventure!
Day 1: exploring ancient Rome and the historic centre
Your first day in Rome can be dedicated to discovering the wonders of the ancient past and the lively historic centre of the Eternal City. On such a day it is possible to admire iconic monuments and enjoy immersive experiences that will set the tone for your Roman adventure.
Morning: The Heart of Ancient Rome
Start your day at the Colosseum, the iconic symbol of Rome and a testament to its imperial grandeur. Built in 70 AD, this ancient amphitheatre once hosted gladiatorial games, wild animal hunts, and public spectacles. Step inside to marvel at its ingenious engineering and imagine the roaring crowds that once filled the seats. Guided tours are recommended to fully appreciate its rich history, and purchasing skip-the-line tickets online in advance will save you valuable time.
Next, you can head to the Roman Forum, located just a short walk from the Colosseum. The Forum was the political, commercial, and social hub of ancient Rome, a sprawling complex of temples, basilicas, and public spaces. As you stroll through the ruins, highlights include the Temple of Saturn, the Arch of Titus, and the House of the Vestal Virgins, all of which offer fascinating glimpses into daily life during the Roman Empire.
Finally, you could end the morning with a visit to the Palatine Hill, the mythical birthplace of Rome. According to legend, this is where Romulus founded the city in 753 BC. As one of the city’s seven hills, it also became home to imperial palaces and lavish villas. Climbing to the top you can admire the breathtaking views over the Forumand the Circus Maximus.
Afternoon: Historic centre highlights
After a morning of ancient wonders, you can move on to the Renaissance and Baroque splendours of Rome. You can start from Piazza Navona, one of Rome’s most beautiful squares.
Once a Roman stadium, the piazza now hosts stunning Baroque fountains, including Bernini’s Fountain of the Four Rivers, and lively cafes where you can enjoy an espresso while soaking in the atmosphere. Don’t forget to explore the charming streets around the square, filled with boutique shops and ice cream parlors.
As you wander through the centre, take time to explore the narrow streets and elegant piazzas, like Campo de’ Fiori, known for its lively market, and Via del Governo Vecchio, lined with antique shops and vintage boutiques.
Evening: a taste of Trastevere
As the sun sets, you can take Ponte Sisto to cross the Tiber River and reach Trastevere, one of Rome’s most picturesque neighborhoods. Known for its cobblestone streets, ivy-covered buildings, and vibrant nightlife, Trastevere offers the perfect setting for a traditional Roman dinner. You can choose a cozy trattoria to savour dishes like saltimbocca alla romana, cacio e pepe, or supplì (fried rice balls). After dinner, you can enjoy a leisurely stroll through the neighbourhood, stopping by Piazza Santa Maria in Trastevere, where the basilica’s golden mosaics glow beautifully at night.
Day 1 in Rome will leave you immersed in the city’s timeless charm, with a mix of ancient wonders, bustling piazzas, and authentic flavours to whet your appetite for more exploration.
Day 2: Vatican wonders and Rome’s elegance
During your second day in Rome, you can discover the artistic and spiritual treasures of the Vatican, the elegant squares, the iconic fountains and the verdant parks of the city.
Morning: immersing yourself in the Vatican
You can begin your day early with a visit to Vatican City, the heart of the Catholic Church and home to some of the world’s most incredible art and architecture. Naturally, it is best to start with the Vatican Museums, an immense collection of art amassed over centuries by the papacy. Highlights include the Gallery of Maps, with its intricate frescoes of ancient cartography, and the Raphael Rooms, adorned with masterpieces by the Renaissance genius.
The highlight of your museum visit is, of course, the Sistine Chapel. Painted by Michelangelo between 1508 and 1512, the Sistine Chapel’s ceiling is one of the greatest achievements in Western art. Marvel at the iconic Creation of Adam, with its almost-touching hands of God and Adam, and the dramatic Last Judgment, which dominates the altar wall. Be sure to take your time and soak in the awe-inspiring beauty and complexity of these frescoes.
After the museums, you can step into the grandeur of St. Peter’s Basilica, the largest and one of the most significant churches in the world. Admire Michelangelo’s Pietà, a moving sculpture of Mary holding the body of Christ, and Bernini’s magnificent Baldachin, which stands over the high altar. For breathtaking views of Vatican City and Rome, you can climb to the top of the dome, an effort rewarded by one of the most unforgettable panoramas in the city.
Afternoon: elegance and relaxation
After your enriching Vatican experience, you can head to Piazza di Spagna, one of Rome’s most elegant squares. At its centre, you’ll find the Spanish Steps, a stunning staircase linking the square to the Trinità dei Monti Church above. The area is perfect for people-watching and enjoying an ice cream from one of the nearby artisan shops.
A short walk away, you’ll reach the Trevi Fountain, perhaps the most famous fountain in the world. This Baroque masterpiece, designed by Nicola Salvi, is a must-see for its intricate sculptures and dramatic setting. Don’t forget to toss a coin into the fountain to ensure your return to Rome—a tradition embraced by visitors for centuries.
You can conclude your afternoon with a peaceful stroll through Villa Borghese, Rome’s central park and a haven of greenery and art. The park’s highlights include the Galleria Borghese, home to masterpieces by Caravaggio, Bernini, and Titian, and the Pincio Terrace, which offers spectacular views over Piazza del Popolo. Villa Borghese is also perfect for a relaxing break, whether you choose to rent a bike, row on the small lake, or simply sit on a bench and take in the serene atmosphere.
Day 2 balances the grandeur of the Vatican with the charm and beauty of Rome’s iconic landmarks and tranquil spaces, leaving you with lasting memories of the Eternal City’s art, elegance, and spirit.
Embracing the timeless allure of Rome
This Italian pearl is easily accessible from major cities such as Florence, Naples or Milan. Imagine departing from Florence in the morning and, in just over an hour and a half, finding yourself surrounded by Rome’s ancient history and iconic beauty. Italo’s high-speed trains offer a seamless journey, giving you more time to explore and enjoy the unique charm of one of the world’s most captivating cities. Plan your trip from Florence to Rome with Italo and discover its wonders!
Rome is more than just a city—it’s a living masterpiece, where history, art, and culture intertwine to create an unparalleled experience. Even with just 48 hours, the Eternal City has the power to captivate and inspire, offering a glimpse into its millennia of legacy while welcoming you with its vibrant modern charm.
From the grandeur of ancient ruins like the Colosseum and the Roman Forum to the breathtaking treasures of the Vatican, every corner of Rome tells a story.
While two days might not be enough to see all that Rome has to offer, it’s plenty of time to fall under its spell. Plan thoughtfully, embrace spontaneity, and let yourself be swept away by the city’s timeless allure. No matter how brief your visit, Rome has a way of leaving an indelible mark on the heart, calling you back again and again to uncover more of its wonders.
So, pack your bags, lace up your walking shoes, and get ready to immerse yourself in the Eternal City. Rome awaits, ready to share its secrets and stories with those who are eager to discover its beauty.
