How to spend one day in Rome

Ah, Rome! A city that’s like a giant history book you can walk through, with stories lurking in every nook and cranny. The journalist Silvio Negro wasn’t exaggerating when he coined the phrase “Roma, non basta una vita” (Rome, a lifetime is not enough). 

While this sentiment provides a good excuse to return time and again, let’s face it, we can’t always indulge in such luxury, can we? So when you’ve got just a day to spare, you want to make it an adventure to remember. And believe me, even a brief encounter with Rome will forever etch itself into your memory!

Now, forget those crazy itineraries that leave you wondering if you’ll ever have time to enjoy that plate of carbonara you’ve been dreaming about. We’re not in a race against the clock here. Our goal is to relish each moment and strike the perfect balance between the big sights and the culinary delights that make Rome so special.

So, ditch the stopwatch and embrace the joy of leisurely exploration. Rome wasn’t built in a day, and you won’t see it all in one either. But hey, we’ll make sure every moment is filled with wonder!

Itinerary for one day in Rome

While one day in Rome can be enjoyed in myriad ways depending on what you’re into (food, art, culture, you name it), consider this itinerary as a personal recommendation for first-time visitors, covering some of the major sights and neighborhoods. However, please note that we won’t be heading inside any spots, though (let’s stay realistic!), so no St. Peter’s or Vatican Museums this time – sorry!

Oh, and just a quick heads up  – we’ll be walking most of the time, so make sure to put on your most comfortable shoes to fully enjoy the experience!

Happy tourist visiting Colosseum in Rome, Italy - Young man taking selfie in front of famous Italian landmark - Travel and holidays concept

Starting point: Termini Station

If you are in Rome for a day, chances are you’ll arrive by train at the Termini station, so let’s kick off our adventure right here. If you’re staying overnight, book a hotel nearby so so you can drop off your stuff and hit the ground running. And if you’re just passing through for a few hours with some luggage weighing you down, drop it off at one of those handy storage spots at the station (just remember to book online beforehand to save yourself some time). 

A mere five minutes walk from Termini lies the Panificio Roscioni. I recommend stopping by and ordering a delicious maritozzo with whipped cream – it’s the perfect fuel to kickstart this Roman adventure!

First stop: the Colosseum

Hop on metro line B at Termini (heading towards Laurentina), and after just two stops, you’ll be face-to-face with the legendary Colosseum, Rome’s ultimate superstar! This grand amphitheater was born from the mind of Emperor Vespasian, who wanted to gift the Romans with the ultimate entertainment extravaganza. And indeed, it lived up to its promise, being inaugurated in 80 A.D. with 100 days of non-stop celebration! 

Capable of accommodating up to 50,000 spectators, the Colosseum boasted specific sections for each social class. Its spectacles ranged from gladiator battles to fights with exotic animals, with certain periods seeing the arena flooded to simulate naval battles! 

But the Colosseum’s significance extends beyond its grandeur. Remarkably, this amphitheater served as the unsung hero behind some of Rome’s most iconic landmarks. Over the centuries, the marble blocks that once covered it were repurposed in the construction of other important structures, including the Holy Staircase, St. Peter’s colonnade, Palazzo Barberini, and Palazzo Farnese. Hence, the Colosseum stands as the perfect inaugural stop for a day in Rome.

Colosseum in Rome - the largest amphitheatre in the world

Piazza Venezia

Take a stroll down Via dei Fori Imperiali, a splendid boulevard flanked by the remnants of the mighty Imperial Forums, which once served as the commercial and political heart of ancient Rome. Within just 15 minutes, you’ll arrive at Piazza Venezia, named after its historical significance as the site of the embassy of the Republic of Venice during the 16th century.

The star of the show here is the magnificent Vittoriano, a dazzling marvel crafted from pristine white marble, dedicated to Vittorio Emanuele II, the first king of Italy, who’s depicted in a grand equestrian statue (rumor has it that 24 people once dined inside its colossal structure!).

The Vittoriano is also known as the Altar of the Fatherland, because in 1921, it became the final resting place of the Unknown Soldier, commemorating all those who died in World War I. Within its walls, the Vittoriano houses the Museum of the Risorgimento and the Shrine of the Flags. And for €17, you can ascend to the beautiful panoramic terrace, standing at a height of 80 meters, where the eternal city unveils its splendor in all its glory. 

Panoramic view of Via del Corso from Piazza Venezia, Rome

Church of San Ignazio da Loyola

Step into the lively hustle and bustle of Via del Corso, one of Rome’s main streets. As you amble along, keep an eye out for Via del Carovita on your left. Following it will lead you to the Church of San Ignazio da Loyola, a 17th-century jewel (entry is free). At first glance, it might appear like just another Baroque church for which Rome is renowned. However, stepping inside, you’re greeted with a spectacle of artistic illusionism. 

The interiors are lavishly adorned with polychrome marbles, intricate stuccoes, and exquisite artworks. Yet, the true marvel lies in two masterpieces by Andrea del Pozzo, a maestro of Baroque art. One is an expansive fresco that appears to break through the ceiling into the heavens above. The other is a dome cleverly crafted to mimic stone, though it’s merely a painted illusion (apparently, back ran out of money to build the real thing!).

To help us fully appreciate these works, the artist thoughtfully placed two yellow marble disks on the floor, indicating where to stand for the optimal viewing angle. Sure, you might end up with a bit of a sore neck from looking up so much, but trust me, it’s totally worth it for the “wow” moments you’ll experience here!

Pantheon

Keep walking down Via del Seminario for a couple of minutes, and here’s another Roman classic right before your eyes – the Pantheon! Originally constructed by Emperor Augustus’s son-in-law in 27 BC, and later rebuilt by Emperor Hadrian in 120 AD following a fire, this architectural marvel has truly endured the passage of time. It stands as the sole ancient Roman building still entirely intact and fulfilling its original function for over two millennia! 

Visiting the Pantheon is a must-do experience: you’ll find yourself in front of an imposing seven-meter-high bronze door and a mighty dome – the largest ever constructed in masonry. Right at its top, there’s this huge hole, known as the “oculus,” about nine meters in width, allowing light to cascade into the interior. From the outside, you might not grasp its full magnificence, so it’s worth buying a €5 ticket online to get the full experience.

Once you’ve soaked in all that history and beauty, treat yourself to something special at Café Tazza d’Oro, famous for their coffee granita topped with a cloud of whipped cream – a delicious treat!

Rome, Italy at The Pantheon, an ancient Roman Temple dating from the 2nd century.

Campo de’ Fiori

It should be around lunchtime by now, and what better place to be than Campo de’ Fiori, a charming square home to Rome’s most famous outdoor market. Back in the day, this place was a flowery field that later turned into a hub with inns and shops, and a site for public executions, such as that of the philosopher Giordano Bruno in 1600. 

Today, Campo de’ Fiori welcomes visitors with a kaleidoscope of colors, smells, and sounds, thanks to its bustling market open from Monday to Saturday until 2 pm (sure, it’s a bit touristy these days, but hey, when in Rome!). Come evening, the piazza is the perfect spot for aperitifs and becomes a true epicenter of Rome’s nightlife. 

And let’s talk about food! There’s so much to choose from here. You can grab heavenly focaccia with mortadella from Forno Campo De’ Fiori or try the famous battered cod fillets at Dar Filettaro a Santa Barbara. Alternatively, enjoy a proper sit-down lunch at a place like Luciano for that carbonara you’ve been craving!

Campo de' Fiori in Rome, Italy at dawn. (Inscription reads: June 9, 1869 To Bruno - from the age he divined  - here where the fire burned).

Piazza Navona

Enjoy a post-lunch stroll, just like the Italians do, and head to Piazza Navona, one of Italy’s prettiest squares. Originally a stadium back in ancient Rome, it still retains its elongated shape, offering a place to immerse yourself in the beauty and culture of Rome.

Three beautiful fountains grace the square: the magnificent Fountain of the Four Rivers sculpted by Gian Lorenzo Bernini in the 17th century, the evocative Moor Fountain, and the sumptuous Neptune Fountain. All around are elegant palaces and lively cafes, with street artists and vendors adding to the lively atmosphere. 

Should there be space left for a sweet indulgence post-meal, head over to 100 Tiramisù.  They’ve got a whopping 100 different kinds of tiramisù to choose from. Decisions, decisions!

Fountains in Piazza Navona in Rome, Italy at twilight.

Piazza del Popolo

From Piazza Navona, a quick walk leads you to the banks of the Tiber, Rome’s iconic river. Consider a brief detour to Piazza di Ponte S. Angelo for picturesque views of the majestic Castel Sant’Angelo, or proceed directly to Piazza del Popolo, tracing the elegant curves of the river along the way.

Located at the foot of the charming Pincio terrace and the expansive Villa Borghese park (both accessible for free), this square served as the primary entrance to the city in ancient Roman times and marks the convergence of three iconic streets of the historic center: via del Babuino, via di Ripetta, and via del Corso. 

Here, you’ll discover the Church of Santa Maria del Popolo, showcasing two paintings by Caravaggio, as well as the twin churches of S. Maria dei Miracoli and S. Maria in Montesanto (the latter known as the “Church of the Artists”). Further adorning this square is a massive red granite obelisk, the first to be transported to Rome during the reign of Augustus, to celebrate the conquest of Egypt.

Woman walks on Navona square in Rome city on a sunny day. Female person with bag and colorful shawl in hair. Concept of italian lifestyle and travel

Piazza di Spagna

Stroll down Via del Babuino (twinned with none less than Madison Avenue in New York!), then turn left onto Via Margutta, a street straight out of a storybook, adorned with art galleries, antique shops, and lively workshops where artists are busy creating. Check out Er Marmoraro for a piece of authentic Roman craftsmanship to take home. 

Next up is Piazza di Spagna, the heart of Rome’s elegance and glamour. Here, the Spanish Steps rise majestically, once a rendezvous spot for artists and hopeless romantics (just remember, no sitting allowed!). Climb to the top for an incredible view from the Church of the Santissima Trinità dei Monti, with Bernini’s beautiful Barcaccia fountain down below. 

In this area, you’ll find high-end boutiques and historic gems like the Keats-Shelley Memorial House (a must-visit for literature lovers). Be sure to indulge in a classic espresso at one of the historic establishments like Babington’s or the Antico Caffè Greco, which is  the second oldest café in Italy, after Caffè Florian in Venice.

Fontana di Trevi

Stroll through the bustling streets of Rome’s city center for another ten minutes, and ta-da! You’ll find yourself standing before the iconic Fontana di Trevi, another absolute must-see for your day in Rome. Rumors have it that its construction drained the city’s coffers so much that they had to tax wine to cover the costs! And there’s good reason to believe it: towering at 26 meters, crafted from exquisite travertine and Carrara marble, it stands as a grand representation of Oceanus atop a shell-shaped chariot pulled by seahorses and tritons – a sight of pure beauty!

Tradition says you’ve got to toss a coin into the fountain for a guaranteed return to Rome. And here’s a little secret for you: just a stone’s throw away lies the Church of Santa Maria in Via, known as Rome’s Little Lourdes. Why? Well, it’s home to an ancient well where you can sip on miraculous water.

Morning over Fontana di Trevi in Rome, Italy

Returning to Termini station or venturing into Trastevere?

If your one day in Rome doesn’t extend into the night, it’s likely time to catch a train. From the Trevi Fountain, a quick walk to Barberini metro station followed by just two stops on Line A towards Anagnina will get you to Termini station. 

Should you find yourself with a bit of time before your train departs, treat yourself to a well-deserved aperitivo, the perfect farewell to the eternal city. Several delightful options await in the area, such as Mercato Centrale, Amodei, or the rooftop bar of Hotel Independent.   

However, if you plan to extend your stay into the evening, Trastevere is a must-visit. This super charming neighbourhood embodies quintessential Rome with its narrow, colorful streets, cozy restaurants, and little shops. Surely, the best place to enjoy a lovely night indulging in some amazing Roman food in places like da Enzo al 29 or Mozzichi.

Now, Trastevere, whose name means “beyond the Tiber,” lies on the opposite bank of the river from the old center of Rome. And here’s the thing, there’s no metro station in the area, so the best option to get here is to grab a taxi.


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