One day in Rome: The only itinerary you'll need

🕒 Duration: 3 hours

🚇 How to reach: Metro Line B – Colosseo Stop

Start your day where Rome’s story truly begins—the Colosseum. Arrive early at 8.30am and be among the first ones to get in..Opt for a comprehensive 3-hour guided tour that’ll take you through the Colosseum's underground chambers and connect the dots between the Forum's scattered ruins and Palatine Hill's imperial palaces. Or, if you've done your homework, grab standard entry tickets and explore at your own pace.

When done living the Gladiator life,cross over to the Roman Forum, where emperors walked and power was once brokered. Look beyond the ruins for marble fragments that still bear intricate carvings. Before leaving, climb up to Palatine Hill for panoramic views over the Forum and the city beyond.

🎟 Recommended experience:

• Entry to Colosseum, Palatine Hill & Roman Forum
• Guided tour of Colosseum, Palatine Hill & Roman Forum

📍 Nearby photo spot:

For that perfect Colosseum shot, climb up to the viewpoint on Via Nicola Salvi. Want alternatives? The weathered western wall by the ticket office will give you a great angle as well. The Temple of Venus Terrace on Palatine Hill provides a spectacular elevated perspective of both the Colosseum and Forum.

🥐 Coffee & snack

Nearby, grab a cornetto and a perfect espresso at Caffè Propaganda, a stylish spot with vintage décor and quality pastries.

🕒 Duration: 2.5 hours

🚇 How to reach: 10-min walk from the Forum.

The Trevi district is a treasure trove of Baroque architecture, with gems like Sant'Andrea delle Fratte and Santi Vincenzo e Anastasio lining its streets. At its heart stands the Trevi Fountain - an 18th-century masterpiece that draws crowds throughout the day.

For that perfect Instagram shot, head to the raised steps on the right side of Palazzo Poli, where you'll find the best angle of this Baroque wonder.

Take a short walk to the rooftop terrace of Rinascente, a department store that hides one of the best free views in Rome. From here, you can see the city’s skyline while enjoying a quick espresso or Aperol spritz.

👜 Shopping stop:

Inside Rinascente, browse Italian brands from high fashion to local artisans—a good place for quality souvenirs if you’re selective.

Head north and you’ll find the Spanish Steps, a grand 18th-century staircase that sweeps up from Piazza di Spagna to the twin-towered Trinità dei Monti Church. Movie buffs might recognize these steps from the thrilling car chase in "Mission: Impossible – Dead Reckoning Part One". It’s the perfect place to people-watch and rest your feet while taking in the vibrant atmosphere of Rome's fashion district.

🍝 Lunch option:

Just around the corner, Osteria da Fortunata is a staple for handmade pasta, where you can watch sfogline (pasta makers) roll fresh dough in the window.

💡 Why this route?

Except for the stretch from the Colosseum to Trevi Fountain, this itinerary is entirely walkable, allowing you to experience Rome’s historic center at a relaxed pace. Every stop flows into the next, reducing the need for public transport while maximizing your time among the city's most stunning sights.

🕒 Duration: 2 hours

An 8-minute walk to the left from Trevi Fountain will lead you to the Pantheon, Rome's best-preserved ancient monument. It is crowned by the world's largest unreinforced concrete dome. Built in 126 AD, this temple-turned-church captivates with its perfect proportions and celestial oculus, through which sunlight illuminates the final resting places of Raphael and Italian kings.

Pro tip: Fast-track tickets will easily save you 20-30 minutes of queue time.

Not far from here is an unexpected find: Mercato di Campo de' Fiori. By midday, this market buzzes with vendors selling fresh produce, spices, and Roman specialties. If you’re the kind of traveler who loves taking home something local, this is a great spot to pick up Italian olive oil or artisanal pasta.

🎟 Recommended experience

• Rome Pantheon Fast-Track Tickets

🕒 Duration: 2.5 hours

As the sun lowers, head to Piazza Navona, where baroque fountains, elegant palaces, and lively street performers create an unbeatable atmosphere. Instead of just passing through, settle into a café terrace for aperitivo—Italy’s cherished pre-dinner ritual. Sip on a spritz or a glass of local wine while nibbling on olives, bruschetta, and cheeses, all while soaking in the vibrant energy of one of Rome’s most beautiful squares. It’s sightseeing and unwinding in one perfect experience.

🍷 Aperitivo spot:

Try Camillo B., a relaxed yet stylish spot with prime views of Bernini’s Fountain of the Four Rivers.

📍 Final viewpoint:

If you have the energy, take a short walk to Pincio Terrace, overlooking Piazza del Popolo. With golden-hour light casting a glow over the domes of Rome, it’s a fitting farewell to a city that never truly leaves you.

If you’re the kind of traveler who prioritizes history and art over shopping, swapping part of the afternoon for Vatican City is a must. The Vatican Museums are home to some of the world’s greatest artistic treasures, including the Sistine Chapel, St. Peter’s Basilica, with its stunning interior and Michelangelo’s Pietà, is an experience in itself. Give yourself at least a few hours to truly appreciate these landmarks.

Each Vatican ticket option offers distinct advantages. The comprehensive guided tour including St. Peter's Basilica & Sistine Chapel provides the most complete experience, ideal for first-time visitors wanting detailed insights. The Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel Guided Tour is a 2-hour quick tour that suits those on tight schedules, focusing on highlights. The premium small group option offers a middle ground with more intimate atmosphere and detailed commentary. Consider your time constraints and interest level when choosing.