2 Days in Rome Itinerary: Best of Rome in 48 Hours (+ Map)

Are you planning to spend 2 days in Rome and are looking for the best things to put on your Rome itinerary? I am here to help!

This guide will help you plan your entire weekend in Rome, Italy—from where to eat to the can’t-miss landmarks that are an itinerary essential! At the end, I also list things to do for those who have 3 days in Rome (or more!).

You can actually see a lot in Rome in 48 hours if you plan ahead. The public transportation is pretty good, and a lot of the Eternal City’s main sites are easy to visit on foot.

Do you have any questions about this guide to spending two days in Rome? Let me know in the comments!

How This Rome Itinerary Works

On my Rome itinerary, I have structured it so that I can help you break down days 1 and 2 with added information about how to visit each place there. You can see an overview of those places before I detail the information!

Also on here are answers to some of your frequently asked questions. I break down when the best time to visit Rome is, as well as how to get around the city.

At the end, I give you a map (I hope it helps!) and also some additional places in case you have three days in Rome (or more). There are some day trip options as well as some attractions that I think are worthy of a visit if you have more than just a short weekend.

You will also find a section about where to stay. I am listing some of my top accommodation choices in Rome that are catered toward a first-time visitor (I recommend those revisiting to stay outside the center a bit for a truly Roman experience).

Have additional questions? Please feel free to reach out to me, and I will do my best to answer.

Best Time to Visit Rome

Rome is a destination that’s wonderful to visit at any time of the year. 

The high season is between Easter (March–April) and September due to the nicer weather (but summer can be a scorcher). You can also expect to see crowds around the Christian holidays, such as Christmas. 

If you want to avoid the large crowds and expensive prices, October to April is a great time to consider visiting. Just beware, it can be a little rainy!

Between March and May seems like the golden spot because you will stay out of the way of some of the larger crowds, but you can still take advantage of the warm weather.

How to Get Around Rome

In Rome, the most popular ways of getting around include the metro, bus, tram, urban railway, and taxis.

Although it’s Europe’s smallest metro system, you can get around via the three lines that run between 5:30 AM and 11:30 PM. On Fridays and Saturdays, the metro is open until 1:30 AM. You can purchase tickets at the stations.

Since the metro isn’t extensive, you might also be encouraged to take a bus. There are over 350 bus lines, which can get confusing, so you can check out the routes here.

Trams tend to be cleaner and faster, but they don’t go to the city center, making them less popular among tourists. 

You can also try the urban railway, which runs in three lines: Rome-Lido, Rome-Viterbo, and Rome-Giardinetti. They run from 5:30 AM to 10:30 AM, and the trains leave every 10–20 minutes. 

Finally, you can go for a tried-and-true taxi, but Roman taxi drivers don’t have the best reputation, and you might find yourself paying more than you would in other European cities.

The minimum fare on weekdays is 3 euros. But Uber works in Rome just fine, so I recommend that!

2 Days in Rome Itinerary: Overview

Day 1 Overview (Main Attractions)

• Spanish Steps
• Trevi Fountain
• Piazza Navona
• Pantheon
• Altar of the Fatherland
• Colosseum
• Forum and Palatine Hill
• Circus Maximus
• Dinner and drinks in Trastevere

Day 2 Overview (Vatican)

• St. Peter’s Basilica
• Vatican Museums
• Sistine Chapel
• Piazza del Popolo
• Terrazza del Pincio

Day 1 in Rome (Main Attractions)

Spanish Steps

Start your Roman holiday on the Spanish Steps, where Audrey Hepburn was eating her gelato in the “Roman Holiday” movie. The site is a giant, sumptuous 138-step stone staircase that leads you from the Piazza di Spagna to the Piazza Trinita dei Monti.

Built at the beginning of the 18th century, the steps connect Piazza di Spagna and the Church of Trinità dei Monti.

While climbing up the stairs, you will see famous sculptures and sites: the Fontana della Barcaccia (fountain of the stone ship), the Keats-Shelley House, Via dei Condotti, and more.

Part of the Old City, the Spanish Steps are now a place for artists, poets, and painters. Every year in July, the steps are transformed into a fashion runway for the Donne Sotto le Stelle fashion show.

If you are planning to visit Rome in spring, check the dates to see when the steps are covered with thousands of pink azaleas to mark the beginning of spring.

Address: Piazza di Spagna, 00187 Roma RM, Italy

Trevi Fountain

It’s hard to imagine Rome without the Trevi Fountain, so your next destination on the Piazza di Trevi is “the jewel of water and stone.” Hands down, this is the world’s most beautiful fountain, built during the Renaissance. 

The Trevi Fountain is built against the back of the Palazzo Poli. Underneath the arch is the statue of the nautical god Neptune, with winged horses and tritons.

Most of the day, the site is overcrowded with tourists, and it’s quite challenging to get a closer look at the sculptures’ carvings and details.

Once you are at the Trevi Fountain, throw three coins into the water: one to return to Rome, one to fall in love with an Italian, and one to marry the person you met.

Address: Piazza di Trevi, 00187 Roma RM

Piazza Navona

The Trevi Fountain is just one of many splendid fountains in Rome.

Head to Piazza Navona to find one of the most charming places in Rome with three more fountains: the Fontana dei Quattro Fiumi, the Fontana del Moro, and the Fontana del Nettuno.

An interesting fact is that until the mid-nineteenth century, the drains of the fountains were blocked, and the square was turned into the “Lake of Piazza Navona.” 

Today, it is a beautiful baroque-style square surrounded by small restaurants with terraces where you can enjoy evening Rome with a glass of wine.

You can also have an incredible view of the whole square from Terrazzo Borromini, a rooftop cafe, where you can enjoy a drink. Also, try “Il Tartuffo” at Tre Scalini, the world-famous dessert and a local specialty.

Address: Piazza Navona, 00186 Roma RM

Pantheon

Finish with Piazza Navona and head to another square, Piazza Della Rotondo, to find the Pantheon, the best-preserved building from Roman times. 

The most recognizable Roman building was built in 27 BCE and still stands completely intact. Every detail and carving is unique and deserves your attention!

But the most impressive part is the oculus of the Pantheon, a hole in the dome with a diameter of 8.7 meters (28 feet). It lets the light in and illuminates the walls, making the building even more impressive and majestic.

The Pantheon is free to visit, but it requires online reservations in advance on weekends and public holidays. When finished exploring the Pantheon, head to the cafe Sant’Eustachio to taste the best espresso with a cornetto. 

Address: Piazza della Rotonda, 00186 Roma RM

Altar of the Fatherland

From ancient Rome to the new Italy, there is one step and a grand monument in the city center. The 19th-century Altar of the Fatherland is the symbol of Italy as a unified peninsula.

Altare della Patria is just a small part of a colossal structure with the official name of Monumento a Vittorio Emanuele II. It stands on the way to the Colosseum, giving you the best views of the Colosseum and Rome.

Ask a local about the name of the monument, and they will call it “Wedding Cake,” “the False Teeth,” or “the Typewriter.” Those are not compliments. The thing is that locals think the monument distorts the historical city backdrop.

Whether it’s true or not, you will have to check it out yourself! But I think it is a must on this itinerary and a place worth seeing.

Address: Piazza Venezia, 00186 Roma RM

Colosseum

Finally, you have reached the Colosseum, the epitome of the history and architecture of ancient Rome. One of the world’s New Seven Wonders is located in the Piazza del Colosseo in Rome.

It is surrounded by other famous monuments: the Arch of Constantine, the Domus Aurea, the Roman Forum, and the Roman Circus. The combined ticket to the Colosseum includes access to these sites as well. 

You will see the Arena Floor, where gladiators fought to the death; the Underground, with tunnels where gladiators and wild animals were kept in cages; and the Emperor’s Seats on both sides of the stadium on the ground floor. 

Be prepared for very long lines at the ticket windows, or you can buy tickets online and save time (the ticket also includes a guided tour, which is pretty cool).

If you do pre-purchase, you will need to pick a time slot, so planning your itinerary is imperative so you don’t miss the time!

Leave your large bags at the hotel because you will not be allowed to enter the monument with them. The Colosseum is wheelchair-accessible. 

Address: Piazza del Colosseo, 1, 00184 Roma RM

Roman Forum and Palatine Hill

After exploring the Colosseum, visit the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill, historic sites next to the Colosseum.

The Roman Forum was the center of political, judicial, and economic life. It was the site of the Senate and the place where Caesar’s body was carried after his assassination.

Standing in the middle of the Roman Forum, you will be part of history.

Palatine Hill rises above the Forum. The hill was the site of emperor palaces, with pools, fountains, and a sports stadium. Walk to the top of Palatine Hill to the Severian Arcades to see the magnificent view of the Circus Maximus and the Colosseum.

Make sure to spend a couple of hours exploring all the historical buildings: the House of the Vestals, the Arch of Septimius Severus, the Temple of Saturn, and more.

You can access the Roman Forum and the Palatine Hill with a combined ticket to the Colosseum if you visit the sites within a day. 

Address: Via della Salara Vecchia, 5/6, 00186 Roma RM

Circus Maximus

The last destination for today is the largest stadium in ancient Rome, located between the Palatine and Aventine hills. At one time, it could accommodate over 150,000 spectators.

Chariot races were the main attraction in the Circus Maximus, racing for seven laps across a sandy stadium.

Today, Circo Massimo is in ruins, but with a bit of imagination, you will see how the stadium looked in the 6th century BC. Covered with grass, it is now a park where locals and tourists relax after a long walk around the sites.

You can enter the park for free every day from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. 

Address: Via del Circo Massimo, 00186 Roma RM

Grab Dinner and Drinks in Trastevere 

It is time to enjoy the rest of the day by having a good portion of Italian food in Trastevere, a popular neighborhood with many street cafes, restaurants, and bars. 

If you want the best experience in Trastevere, visit Bar San Calisto, the oldest bar that is a cafe from 6 a.m. with coffee and pastries, a lively restaurant for the evening, and a bar with drinks till 2 a.m.

There is Enoteca La Vite for wine lovers, with local wines by the glass, considerable portions of snacks, and marinated vegetables enjoyed on the terrace. 

Next to San Calisto, you will see a modern bar with an exclusive craft cocktail menu. The list is often updated with new names.

Tasting cocktails is part of the fun, but watching how bartenders perform a masterclass in shaking, straining, and juicing your cocktail is a true performance. 

Day 2 in Rome (Vatican City)

St. Peter’s Basilica

The second day of your tour will be devoted to the Vatican City, starting with St. Peter’s Basilica. The center of pilgrimage for all Catholics, the world’s largest church, and the Pope’s residence are the Vatican’s main attractions.

Inside, the Renaissance-style Basilica is decorated with impressive art, including Michelangelo’s Pietà statue, St. Peter on his throne, and St. Peter’s Baldachin. Every piece of wall is pure art, so take your time to enjoy everything.

After exploring the wall paintings and carvings, look up to the 130-meter-high (427-foot-high) Buonarroti Dome, designed by Michelangelo. 

When visiting St. Peter’s Basilica, you should follow several rules. Two of the most notable ones are:

• Make sure to be dressed decently with covered shoulders and knees.
• If you have tattoos, make sure to cover them too. Before entering the church, you will be asked to leave your backpacks, strollers, and suitcases. 

Address: Piazza San Pietro, 00120 Città del Vaticano, Vatican City

Vatican Museums

From St. Peter’s Basilica, packed with impressions, head to the Vatican Museums, one of the largest museums with priceless religious objects and Roman artifacts. It is a complex of 26 different museums, each with its own history.

You can learn everything from audioguides that will lead you through the main attractions: the Gallery of the Candelabra, the Gallery of Tapestries, the Gallery of Maps, and more.

With an audioguide, your tour will last more than 3 hours because you will stop at each artwork and listen to the story. 

Like any attraction in Rome, there are huge ticket queues. To escape the lines and not waste time, make sure you buy tickets beforehand (the price for online tickets may be a little high, but they will help you save time).

Keep in mind that the dress code is mandatory in churches and other Vatican sites. 

Sistine Chapel

Part of your Vatican Tour, the Sistine Chapel is a must-see historical site and the architectural masterpiece of Vatican City, Rome, and the world in general.

The ceiling is the most valuable part of the chapel; it is all covered with frescoes by Botticelli, Luca, Perugino, and Michelangelo.

On Friday nights during the summer, the chapel and the other Vatican sites are less crowded, so you will have a chance to explore them without crowds of tourists. Also, you may consider going for an early bird tour before 8 am, before the main tourist flow has arrived.

Piazza del Popolo

Before your day is over in Rome, visit Piazza del Popolo, the northern gateway that was the main entrance to Rome during the Roman Empire.

You will see magnificent Santa Maria dei Miracoli and Santa Maria in Montesanto churches, an Egyptian obelisk to Ramesses II, and Santa Maria del Popolo with its two canvases by Caravaggio. 

Once in the Piazza del Popolo, take a short walk between two churches to the shopping streets to find yourself in Rome’s most popular shopping area.

A perfect shopping day ends with fine dining at a restaurant near the square.

If you have time and energy, take a walk to Villa Borghese, one of Europe’s largest urban parks, with lots of activities.

I, however, think that Villa Borghese requires a bit more time than just an extra hour, so I did list it as an added landmark to see if you have more than 48 hours in Rome.

Address: Piazza del Popolo, 00187 Roma RM

Watch the Sunset at Terrazza del Pincio

The day comes to an end, and there is little time to enjoy Rome before sunset. From Piazza del Popolo, take a stroll to the Pincio terrace and wide promenade overlooking the square and Rome and leading to the Villa Borghese.

It is a free attraction, giving you a bunch of emotions and memories. If you are a sucker for viewpoints, you won’t get much better than the one from the terrace!

Address: Salita del Pincio, 00187 Roma RM

Where to Eat (and Drink!) in Rome

Tonnarello

Located in Trastevere, one of the most crowded districts of Rome, Tonnarello is a popular venue for fine dining in Rome. You may even expect lines at peak meal times, but you will never regret it. 

Every Italian dinner should start with a bottle of red wine, so you can start sipping your wine while waiting for your food. For starters, guests have reviewed bruschettas and calamari as the best options.

There is a wide choice of main dishes, but no matter which one you choose, it will be beyond your expectations. Finish your dinner with a cup of coffee, and you will get it served with a plate of homemade biscuits without extra cost. 

Pizza della Madonna dei Monti

Serving some of the best ravioli, lasagna, and pizzas in Rome, Piazza Della Madonna dei Monti restaurant should be included in your must-visit list.

The location is great to visit after you tour the Colosseum and nearby sites.

Promoting and protecting small farm businesses, the restaurant has chosen the fare un menu ‘tutto votato all’etica (to make a menu with ethics). That’s why the dishes are so tasty and always fresh. 

You can have delicious cordial, margaritas, or wine for evening cocktails and drinks. Also, try homemade beers that make the best match with pizzas.

Mr. 100 Tiramisu

There are perfect things in this life, and one of them is tiramisu at Mr. 100 Tiramisu. With terrific service, typical Italian vibes, and the most delicious tiramisu ever, this place will become one of your highlights in Rome!

Besides the well-known tiramisu, Mr. 100 Tiramisu serves the best bruschetta, burrata salad, meat and cheese platters with wine, and so many other delicacies you need to try. 

The reason why every guest simply falls in love with this place could be the exquisite tiramisu or wine, but it is the excellent service that makes you feel so special. 

Taverna Romana

Your tour of Via della Madonna dei Monti may be made more memorable with a dinner in Taverna Romana, a Rome favorite for both tourists and locals for its delicious Roman cuisine. 

The menu of the tavern offers all the classics of Italian cuisine, following the seasons and using products from the Lazio region, the Roman countryside.

Some of the signature dishes are gnocchi and truffle pasta. For dessert, you can try tiramisu and chocolate pie with espresso.

Osteria Barberini

At the end of your leisurely walk around the Piazza Barberini, you will find the famous Osteria Barberini restaurant, known for having some of the best food in Rome (try any truffle dish!).

Besides truffles, the restaurant is a top destination for authentic Italian cuisine and the tastiest spaghetti carbonara, white risotto, and lasagna. Most of the dishes are finished with the refined flavor of truffle. 

The wine list is made to match the mouth-watering dishes, but the dessert menu is the one to pay special attention to. Try the perfectly cooked strawberry tiramisu, parfait, and raspberry cheesecake!

Do you have 3 days in Rome? Or longer?

If you are spending a long weekend in Rome, here are some additional places and day trips for you to add to your itinerary.

Villa Borghese Grounds and Gallery

Villa Borghese, occupying over 200 acres of green park, is the largest and one of the most beautiful places in Rome.

Initially built for Cardinal Scipione Borghese in the 17th century, the building is now home to some world-class museums, including the Galleria Borghese and Casa del Cinema.

The park is too large to escape crowds, so you can enjoy the natural beauty without running into a lot of tourists.

To see everything around, rent a bike from rental services and start with Parco dei Daini, which leads to the Borghese Gallery and the zoo.

Go inside the Villa Borghese to find a lovely pond, and rent a boat for 3 euros to enjoy a ride.

You can explore the Borghese Gallery at your own pace, be guided by museum staff (in Italian or English), or book a tour guide outside the museum. Either way, there are maps all over the park so that you won’t get lost.

You can finish your day in a small cafe in the Borghese Gallery basement reception, eating snacks and pastries with coffee.

Address: Piazzale Napoleone I, 00197 Roma RM

Castel Sant’Angelo

The imposing Castel Sant’Angelo is the only building that has stood for 2,000 years and witnessed the development of Rome. This fortress is located on the right bank of the Tiber River, not far from the Vatican. 

A spiral ramp leads to each of the five floors of the Castel of Sant’Angelo. On the first floor, you will see the tomb of Emperor Hadrian.

The prison occupies the second floor. Going up, you will see weapons, Renaissance paintings, and sculptures. On the 4th floor, you can enter the rooms decorated with Renaissance-style frescoes that once served as a papal residence.

Go to the terrace to see a beautiful view of the river and Archangel Michael’s bronze statue. 

During the high season, queues are common at the Castle of the Holy Angel. Booking in advance is, therefore, a good idea.

Address: Lungotevere Castello, 50, 00193 Roma RM

Santa Maria Maggiore Basilica (Vatican)

Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore is one of the four major basilicas in Rome and the largest of the churches dedicated to the Virgin Mary. 

Located on the summit of Esquiline Hill, a 4th-century basilica. Inside, you will see a restored facade and interior with marble floors, columns from other Roman buildings, and fifth-century mosaics.

Don’t forget to look up and see the ceiling decorations from the Renaissance period and Baroque-era domes.

The gold you will see was the first gold brought to Europe in the 1400s. The basilica is open daily from 7 a.m. to 6:45 p.m. (free entrance).

Don’t forget to wear a proper outfit to cover your shoulders and knees. Visit the church after sunset to see 130 light projectors illuminating the facade, the bell tower, and two domes, Sistina and Paolina. 

Address: P.za di Santa Maria Maggiore, 00100 Roma RM

Walk around the Monti Neighborhood

Located in the heart of Rome, between the Colosseum and Piazza Venezia, the Monti neighborhood attracts tourists with its history, cobbled alleys, and cool restaurants.

To experience Monti like a local, be there at aperitivo time (from 6:30 pm to 8:30 pm) when everyone is gathering on the fountain’s steps to chill.

Another thing you can do is start at noon by visiting the churches and main attractions, then take breaks at cafes for a snack and coffee with gelato.

For the rest of the day, you can continue exploring the neighborhood before sunset and then have a glass of wine on one of the cafe terraces on Piazza della Madonna ai Monti. Alternatively, you can even take a food tour of Monti!

For weekend shopping, Mercato Monti will give you a lot of emotions and experience with vintage and handmade jewelry. If you get there at noon, have lunch at L’Asino d’Oro or taste traditional dishes in La Carbonara restaurant. 

The National Roman Museum

The National Roman Museum is one of the world’s greatest museums, showcasing ancient Greco-Roman art.

The museum is located in four buildings: the Palazzo Altemps, the Baths of Diocletian, the Crypta Balbi, and the Palazzo Massimo. All four are very impressive and worth your attention.

You will have a chance to see the best-preserved Roman frescos, an impressive collection of mosaics from the 2nd century AD, and unique jewels.

All the exhibitions are chronologically divided into themes, so you will feel like you are traveling through time. The buildings are equipped with elevators on the ground and second floors for disabled visitors.

Also, each building has wheelchairs for visitors with limited mobility.

Address: Largo di Villa Peretti, 2, 00185 Roma RM

Take a Day Trip to Tivoli (Villa d’Este and Villa Adriana)

A relaxing one-day trip to scenic Tivoli is one of the best ways to escape the bustle of Rome.

From the Rome Termini train station, you will get to Villa d’Este in only 40 minutes to explore the beautiful 16th-century palace with gardens, one of the best-preserved examples of the Renaissance era with the most incredible collection of ancient fountains.

Starting at 10 a.m., the Fountain of the Organ performs a terrific show every two hours for visitors. You can also take an audio guide to learn about the site’s history and watch the introductory video in the multimedia room. 

Admission is free on the first Sunday of each month, so you may be lucky to enjoy this beauty for free. You can enjoy the beauty of Villa d’Este from early morning until sunset.

Two Days in Rome: On a Map!

Where to Stay in Rome, Italy

Some of my top places to stay (for any budget) in Rome are: 

1. Roma Luxus Hotel (stylish rooms in the Monti district)
2. Apartment Vatican Vista (has views over the Vatican)
3. The RomeHello (budget option, close to Trevi Fountain)

If this is your first time visiting Rome, I suggest staying closer to the city center to maximize your time! If you have been to Rome before, I think you can easily stay a bit outside of the center and enjoy the local neighborhoods of Rome.

Did I miss any of the best spots to see with only 2 days in Rome?

Let me know what I missed on this Rome itinerary in the comments. Thanks!

More Rome Travel Guides

• Top things to do in Rome
• Rome in winter
• Best cooking classes in Rome
• Colosseum travel guide
• Best day trips from Rome
• Ziplining near Rome

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Megan Starr

Megan is a travel blogger and writer with a background in digital marketing. Originally from Richmond, VA, she now splits her time between Frankfurt, Germany and Arctic Finland after also living in Norway, Armenia, and Kazakhstan. She has a passion for winter travel, as well as the Nordic countries, but you can also find her eating her way through Italy, perusing perfume stores in Paris, or taking road trips through the USA. Megan has written for or been featured by National Geographic, Forbes, Lonely Planet, the New York Times, and more. She co-authored Fodor’s Travel ‘Essential Norway’ and has visited 45 US states and 100+ countries.