TWO DAYS IN ROME – THINGS TO DO & SEE
Are you planning your 2-day in Rome itinerary and wondering what and how much you can see in Rome in two days? Then read on as I share my tips for an amazing trip to this unique city.
Rome is a fantastic destination – incredibly rich in history and culture, with many ancient landmarks, museums, and galleries that showcase its heritage. The city also offers a vibrant and lively atmosphere, with bustling markets, lively piazzas, and delicious cuisine that reflects the traditions of Italian cooking.
2 days in Rome is not a lot but enough to explore the main sights and fall in love with the eternal city.
TRAVEL TIPS FOR YOUR 2 DAYS IN ROME
Rome is like no other city – full of history and culture, beautiful people, stunning architecture, and great food. Before starting with the best places to see in Rome in 2 days, you´ll find a quick guide with the most important travel information for the eternal city.
Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. This means I might earn a small commission when you buy a product (at no extra cost to you) after clicking on my link. More about it here.
HOW TO GET AROUND ROME IN 2 DAYS
How to get around Rome? Well, you have a couple of options.
CAN I WALK TO MANY SIGHTS IN ROME?
Yes, many of Rome’s popular sights are within walking distance of each other, making it an excellent city to explore on foot! The historic city center is relatively compact and perfect for walking tours.
Sights “outside the city center” are also clustered together, such as the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill.s.
However, Rome’s cobbled streets can be uneven and hilly in places, so I highly recommend comfortable footwear.
ARE THERE SIGHTSEEING BUSES IN ROME?
Yes, there are sightseeing buses in Rome that provide an easy way to see many of the city’s most noteworthy sights in a single trip.
These buses typically follow a pre-determined route through the city, stopping at attractions along the way, and offering guided commentary in multiple languages.
They are an excellent option for tourists who want to see the historic city center without the hassle of navigating public transport or walking long distances. If you’re short on time, a sightseeing bus tour is an excellent option to see as much of Rome as possible in a short time.
I had tickets for hop-on and hop-off sightseeing buses. We (this was not a solo trip but I visited Rome with two cousins) stayed in Rome for more than three days and walked each day at least 15-20 km and used the buses when we were tired or to save time.
➡️ CHECK OUT PRICES FOR SIGHTSEEING BUSES HERE
🚌 IS PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION IN ROME GOOD?
Yes, public transportation in Rome is quite good and can be an excellent and affordable way to get around the city. Rome has an extensive metro network, several tram lines, and numerous bus routes that cover most of the city’s areas.
The public transport system is generally reliable and punctual, which makes it easy to schedule your day around your chosen sites. However, during peak travel times, buses/metros can become crowded, and delays can happen.
Keep an eye on your belongings and be aware of your surroundings during these peak periods.
Overall, public transport in Rome is a great option, especially if you want to save money or reduce your environmental impact compared to a taxi ride.
🚗 SHOULD I RENT A CAR IN ROME?
In my experience, there is no need to rent a car, thus I recommend against it for several reasons.
Driving in Rome (and Italy in general) can be stressful, and chaotic, and traffic can be heavy, especially during peak hours. Additionally, navigating the narrow, winding, and sometimes one-way streets can be challenging if you’re not familiar with the city, and parking can be expensive and difficult to find.
There are so many better options to get around Rome than in your own car. However, if you want to get around in “your vehicle” I have another idea for you.
Renting a Vespa in Rome can be a great idea! It’s an excellent way to explore the city, especially if you want to avoid crowded public transport or walking long distances.
However, traffic in Rome can be chaotic, and driving a Vespa can be dangerous if you’re not confident on two wheels. So, if you’re an experienced rider or confident on a scooter, renting a Vespa can be a fantastic way to explore the city. If not, it may be safer to opt for other transportation options.
WHERE TO STAY FOR 1 OR 2 NIGHTS IN ROME
Rome is one of the busiest cities in Italy – full of tourists at any time of the year. Accommodation can be pricey though you will not find many of the typical 5-star hotel chains you see everywhere else where you have crowds of visitors.
🛏️ Luxury Hotels: The St. Regis Rome is one of the few hotel chains with a property in Rome. The hotel is popular because of its central location. It is within walking distance of Rome attractions like the Spanish Steps. Click here to find out more and get the best rates.
🛏️ Mid-Range Hotels: The Suites Farnese Design is a popular 3-star hotel – find out more about the mid-range hotel here.
🛏️ Budget Hotels: The St.Peter´s Room Rome might be the perfect choice for you: We were a group of three and we were really, really happy with our hotel. It was not spectacular, but the location was good, and so was the value for money: Find out more about the budget hotel here.
I had coffee at Atlante Star Hotel. The view from the rooftop is amazing and reason enough to stay there overnight. Check out their prices here.
If you prefer staying at an Airbnb, check out that post.
Best Time to Visit
Rome has a Mediterranean climate. The summers are hot, humid, and dry with temperatures ranging from 66°F to 86°F +.
The winters are colder and wet with temperatures ranging from 46°F to 64°F. Rainfall is common throughout the year, but especially during the winter months. The average humidity levels range between 56% and 84%.
We visited Rome in the winter – and had a blast. I definitely don’t recommend visiting in the summer. From June to September it is warm too hot and generally dry, and tourists from all around the world flock to Rome, so it gets extremely crowded and hotel prices are high.
The best time for a 2-day Rome trip – in my opinion – is from October to April. It can get coldish in the winter months but it hardly dips below freezing point. Wintertime has the least crowds, which results in shorter lines (standing in lines might play a big role when visiting Rome). The weather in January, during my trip, was mild, and crowds were gone though it was still busy and lively, while accommodation costs are lower.
The activities mentioned in this itinerary can all be done at any time of the year – but I guess winter, fall, or spring might be the best time to visit.
Money Issues in Rome
Okay, when I was in Rome, I noticed that cash is still king even if not officially. Let me explain.
The currency is the Euro (€). That of course, is not a problem but actually super handy if you are from other EU countries.
However, shops often advertise that EC/Credit Card payment is possible.
But the reality is that once we wanted to buy something (including tickets for the hop-on and hop-off buses), it did not work because of a “broken card machine.“ This happened regularly, and it was a bit frustrating and disappointing. I don’t want to assume too much, but we figured that credit card payments were not welcomed to avoid paying taxes to the government – that is just my guess though.
I might be wrong, but definitely withdraw money and have cash on you to avoid problems, or book tickets in advance and pay online.
WHAT TO DO AND SEE IN ROME IN TWO DAYS
Visiting Rome means being transplanted back to ancient times. The Roman Empire used to be the most powerful in its time – and you can still visit many of these gorgeous places. So, let’s dive into your 2-day Rome itinerary.
DAY 1 OF TWO DAYS IN ROME
Start your day with a trip to the Colosseum…
Learn About Rome´s History at the Colosseum – Around 9 am
The Colosseum is one of the main tourist attractions. It is even a great place if you visit Rome with kids. Officially known as the Flavian Amphitheater it is almost 2,000 years old. It was commissioned around A.D. 70-72 by Emperor Vespasian of the Flavian dynasty as a gift to the Roman people.
However, there is a cruel and tragic history behind it, as the Colosseum used to be a venue for gladiator and wild animal fights for about 4 centuries. In the 6th century, it was abandoned and actually used as a quarry for numerous building projects. Restoration efforts only began in the 1990s.
Despite its bloody history, it is an awe-inspiring place to see in Rome. The Colosseum is the largest ancient amphitheater ever built – it could hold up to 50,000 visitors. It is still the largest standing amphitheater in the world today, though about two-thirds of the original Colosseum has been destroyed over time.
The architecture is one of the most distinctive in any European capital. While looking at it from a distance is nice (and free), you should get a ticket and explore the inside. Keep in mind that it is one of the main attractions, so there will be tons of other tourists visiting as well.
ℹ️ So, buying an online ticket in advance is a good option to avoid the line (as this includes “skip the lines” already).
ℹ️ We got extra audioguides (and my cousin answered all my additional questions) and learned about its history in a nutshell. If you don’t have such an awesome cousin as I do who was my guide, you could book guided tours in advance
ℹ️ Come here early to avoid the crowds
ℹ️ Regular tickets are € 16.00 and include entrance to the Colosseum plus entrance to the Roman Forum and Palatine archaeological area – but they do not include “skip the lines”.
ℹ️ There are tickets (not always available and for a higher price) that also allow you to visit the arena and the underground
ℹ️ It takes about 1-3 hours to visit the Colosseum
ℹ️ There is no dress code but wear comfy shoes
➡️ GET YOUR COLOSSEUM TICKETS HERE
➡️ GET ACCESS TO THE UNDERGROUND OF THE COLOSSEUM BY GETTING YOUR TICKET HERE
From the Colosseum, it is time to head to the next attractions, which are just a stone‘s throw away: the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill.
Stroll the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill – Around 11 am
If you have a ticket for the Colosseum, it normally includes the entry fees for these sights as well, which are other places to add to your 2 days in Rome itinerary. The Roman Forum (Foro Romano) is located just to the west of the Colosseum and is the ancient city of Rome, whereas Palatine Hill rises above the Forum and it is the place where the emperors built their palaces.
To be honest, I wish I had an audio guide or a tour guide. Even though I have a lively imagination, it was not enough to really grasp the importance of the place, and I felt a bit lost without a guide.
You´ll also have great views of the Colosseum, and it is not as crowded as other Rome attractions, or maybe because of its size, it felt less busy.
ℹ️ Combine it with a trip to the Colosseum
ℹ️ Regular tickets are € 16.00 and include entrance to the Colosseum, the Roman Forum, and the Palatine archaeological area
ℹ️ I also recommend a guided tour to better understand the importance of this Rome sight
ℹ️ Plan in 2-4 hours for these two attractions
➡️ GET YOUR ROMAN FORUM & PALENTINE TICKETS HERE
From there, you could take public transportation, the hop-on or hop-off bus, a taxi, or walk (about 2 km) to the next famous landmark.
Monumento Nazionale a Vittorio Emanuele II – Around 2 pm
This building has become one of my favorite sights and is Monumento Nazionale a Vittorio Emanuele. Though I haven’t seen it in many top 10 lists for Rome, it has made it on my list. Its symmetry is just astonishing.
It was created as a monument for the first king of united Italy (completed in 1925) and is probably one of Rome’s most modern-looking buildings. Yes, I seriously did not see many new buildings, so I perceived this 100-year-old building as modern!
ℹ️ There is also a flag museum (free of charge) you can visit.
ℹ️ Climbing the first stairs to the lower terrace (with the view in the picture) is free
ℹ️ Using the lift to the panoramic terrace (the only way to get to the top) costs about 7€
From there, you could take a taxi, or walk for about 10 minutes to the next famous landmark.
Check out Pantheon – Around 4 pm
The Pantheon is one of the main landmarks in Rome. Honestly, I was not too impressed. Maybe, I was in a bad mood when I entered because just a few seconds before, my ice cream had fallen, and I was sad over the waste of my valuable, delicious Italian gelato.
It was built between 25 and 27 BC as a temple dedicated to the twelve Gods and to the living Sovran. It was most likely reconstructed between 118 and 125 AD and is thus almost 2000 years old. It is the only ancient Roman building that has remained more or less intact through the centuries (remember the Colosseum that has largely been destroyed). In the 7th century, the temple was officially converted to Christianity and named the Basilica of Saint Mary and Martyrs.
ℹ️ The Pantheon is free to visit
ℹ️ You do not need to book any ticket in advance. Lines might be long though
ℹ️ You can book audio guides for an extra fee
ℹ️ Guided tours are also available at the church (take about 45 minutes and cost about 20€)
ℹ️ Mobile App is available: Pantheon Rome
ℹ️ It is a church, so dress moderately
From there, you could take public transportation, a taxi, or walk to the next famous landmark which is about 1 km away.
Relax at Piazza di Spagna – the Spanish Steps – Around 6 pm
The Spanish Steps are another tourist magnet. The Spanish Steps (Scalinata di Trinità dei Monti in Italian) was built in the 18th century and has its name from the Spanish Embassy at the Piazza di Spagna.
They are 135 steps climbing a steep slope between the Piazza di Spagna at the base and Piazza Trinità dei Monti, with the Trinità dei Monti church at the top.
Since spring 2019 it is not allowed to sit on the Spanish Steps anymore.
Okay, one great way to end the day is to head to the nearby Trevi Fountain.
Make a Wish at Trevi Fountain – Around 7.30 pm
I mentioned that I didn‘t like the Spanish Steps that much because it was crowded. But I cannot recall any place that was as crowded as the Trevi Fountain.
There had been another fountain on that site that was demolished in the 17th century, and then Trevi Fountain was designed and completed by Giuseppe Pannini in the 18th century. It is about 26 meters high and about 49 meters wide. In the center of the fountain, you will see a statue of Oceanus, the Sea God in Greek mythology.
There are many cafes and restaurants close by, too, so you´ll find something to your fancy and enjoy the area. However, I suggest to have your drink on a bench in front of the fountains instead of in a cafe.
ℹ️ Don’t forget to throw in a coin if you want to revisit Rome. The myth says that throwing a coin with your right hand over your left shoulder ensures you´ll visit Rome again.
ℹ️ While the water from the fountain was long known as the best in Rome, it is now not drinkable!
This will probably be a busy day, but sticking to a tight schedule will allow you to see many of Rome´s sights within two days. Check out ideas on how to spend your evenings in Rome.
ℹ️ Tip: With 2 days in the city you might be able to visit Trevi Fountain twice. Early in the morning, it tends to be less busy, and you can manage to take a picture without other people in it.
DAY 2 OF TWO DAYS IN ROME
Hey there! I know this Rome in 2-day itinerary is jam-packed, but trust me, it’s totally worth it! Let’s dive into some suggestions I have for your second day in this beautiful city.
Enjoy Castel Sant’Angelo – Around 9 am
Castel Sant’Angelo is located close to the Tiber River. It is a popular place to find musicians and small stalls selling souvenirs. You can also visit the museum inside and enjoy great views of the city.
The Mausoleum of Hadrian, usually known as Castel Sant’Angelo, is a towering cylindrical building initially commissioned by the Roman Emperor Hadrian as a mausoleum for himself (around 2000 years ago!) and his family.
It has been used for different purposes, from defense fortress to prison and dungeon and more. At the beginning of the 20th century, it became a museum and venue for cultural and social events.
Inside you will now find the Museo Nazionale di Castel Sant’Angelo with many pieces on display, including a grand collection of paintings, sculptures, military memorabilia, and medieval firearms. The museum is divided into several sections, with elegant Renaissance interiors, including the Sala Paolina with frescoes depicting episodes from the life of Alexander the Great on the castle’s upper floors.
There is also a terrace offering unforgettable views over Rome and Vatican City with a little cafe.
ℹ️ Ticket prices are around 14€ for adults
ℹ️ You cannot bring backpacks, suitcases, or large bags to the sites
ℹ️ You have to go through security checks
ℹ️ Plan in between 1-3 hours
➡️ GET YOUR CASTEL SANT`ÁNGELO TICKET HERE AND SKIP THE LINES
Okay, one great way to end the day is to head to a nearby rooftop bar.
Enjoy an Espresso at a Rooftop Bar – Around 12 pm
When in Rome, make sure to head to some of the great rooftop bars here.
If you plan to visit Castel Sant’Angelo and its terrace you will have great views already, but why not enjoy some more fantastic panorama? For amazing views of St. Peter‘s Basilica in Vatican City, we went for an espresso at Atlante Star. It is a four-star hotel with a lovely view of Vatican City and Rome. I guess there aren’t many rooftop bars that can claim to offer views of two countries.
Stroll the Tiber River – Around 2 pm
If you have some energy left, invest time exploring an UNCROWDED place in Rome (well, kind of).
When you stroll the Tiber River, you will have the place almost to yourself – a rarity. I am into strolling rivers. It may sound weird, but I have fallen in love with places where I basically just strolled along the rivers. The river is not as dominant (nor as pretty) as in other cities, but you could stroll, have a drink, picnic, etc.
Read more: Visit Appia Antica – A day trip from Rome.
End the Day in Travestere – Around 5 pm
For the second night, I definitely recommend dining in the Trastevere neighborhood. This area is probably one of my favorite areas in Rome.
Trastevere is a charming and lively neighborhood located on the opposite bank of the Tiber River, south of the Vatican in Rome. It’s known for its narrow cobblestone streets, colorful buildings, and vibrant nightlife. Trastevere dates back to the earliest days in Rome and was originally an area for working-class citizens.
Today it is one of the most picturesque neighborhoods in Rome and a great place to explore.
You can take a stroll around the neighborhood, visit its many medieval churches, or enjoy some delicious food at one of its many restaurants. There are also plenty of hidden gems to discover such as art galleries, boutique shops, and cozy bars.
Just pick one of the numerous restaurants to dine in – and the best, some are quite affordable.
If you spend your last evening here, you will probably have a great memory of Rome!
DAY TRIP FROM ROME
Vatican City is a must-see in, well, I would say Rome though it is not part of Rome. However, it was one of the highlights of my Rome trip. And so I highly suggest staying 3 days in Rome, so you can add a day trip to your itinerary. But you could also add it to your 2-day itinerary and visit Vatican City in half a day/ 1 day.
Explore Vatican City
Vatican City is an independent city-state located within the city of Rome, Italy. It is the smallest country in the world, with an area of just 44 hectares (110 acres) and a population of around 800 people.
Vatican City is also the spiritual and administrative center of the Roman Catholic Church and home to the Pope, who is the head of the Catholic Church.
Vatican City is home to some of the most important religious and cultural landmarks in the world, including St. Peter’s Basilica, the Sistine Chapel, the Vatican Museums, and the Apostolic Palace, which serves as the Pope’s official residence. The Vatican also has its own post office, banking system, and newspaper.
Apart from the numerous religious sites and historical landmarks, Vatican City is also a center for art and culture. The Vatican Museums contain some of the most incredible collections of art and artifacts from ancient civilizations, including Greek and Roman antiquities, Egyptian artifacts, and tapestries from the 15th and 16th centuries.
We can be as critical as we want (and should) of the Catholic Church system, but there is no denial in the significance of Vatican City and the really stunning sights and attractions. Its combination of religious, historical, and cultural significance makes it a must-see for anyone visiting Rome.
ℹ️ I strongly recommend getting tickets for the museum as well and planning at least half a day for this place, including the Sistine Chapel.
ℹ️ Have I mentioned that it gets bustling and crowded? So make sure you book your tickets in advance because even in January, there were long lines for those without “Skip the Line“ tickets.
➡️ GET YOUR TICKETS FOR THE VATICAN MUSEUMS, SISTINE CHAPEL & ST. PETER´S TOUR HERE
FINAL THOUGHTS ON A WEEKEND TRIP TO ROME
Rome, the Eternal City, is a mesmerizing blend of ancient ruins, Renaissance art, and vibrant street life. Its heart, the Roman Forum, whispers stories of emperors and gladiators. The Colosseum stands as a timeless symbol of power.
Cobblestone streets lead to the Vatican, housing Michelangelo’s masterpieces. Piazzas buzz with cafes, while the aroma of Italian cuisine wafts through the air.
2 days in Rome (plus one day in Vatican City) is the minimum time to spend because it will allow you to see some of the best sights in Rome in two days.
Hopefully, this guide has helped you plan your 2-day Rome itinerary.
