How to Spend the Perfect Two Days in Rome: A Local’s Itinerary

If you’re on a tight timeline and only have two days in Rome, you’re in the right place! Having grown up in Rome, I know this city like the back of my hand – from the must-sees to the hidden gems. Even more, I feel that I could walk this eternal city blind folded.

This 2 days in Rome itinerary smoothly guides you through the city, ensuring your adventures through are filled with all the must-visits and iconic landmarks. In addition, this itinerary includes some of the BEST hidden gems of Rome to help you see Rome’s beauty to the fullest.

Without further ado, get ready to spend the best two days in Rome!😍👇

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How to Spend the Best Two Days in Rome

Day 1: Discover Ancient Rome

How best to start a weekend in Rome than with Ancient Rome? On this first day, you will visit all the iconic and historical landmarks from Ancient Rome, along with hidden gems from ancient times. Get your comfy shoes and your fully charged phone, or camera, ready… Let’s go!👇

Colosseum

• 📍 Location: Piazza del Colosseo, 1, 00184 Roma RM, Italy
• 💰 Price: Depends on the ticket you purchase. The regular entrance is 18 euros.
• 🗺 Tips: Buy tickets early in advance!
  • Free entry on the 1st Sunday of the month, June 2nd, and November 4th.

What better way to start your weekend in Rome than with the one and only, Colosseum? As a wonder of the world and the world’s largest standing amphitheater, entering this landmark is simply a must.

When it comes to the entrance tickets to the Colosseum, there are endless options – making it important for you to know what you want to get out of the visit. Some good questions to consider are:

• Do you want a guided tour or not?
• Do you want to beat the crowds?
• Want a guided tour through the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill too, or not?
• And so on…

To offer some guidance, I highly recommend visiting the Colosseum early in the morning to avoid Rome’s extreme heat, have fewer crowds, and for you to have all your energy ready. Fun fact, if you are an early bird who wants the most unique experience, you can get a VIP entrance as early as 7:15 am – meaning having the Colosseum to yourself and a small group of 7 people.

When you buy tickets for the Colosseum unless it is a guided tour, it always includes the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill; both of which are must-visits. Check out these amazing experiences below!👇

If you visited the Colosseum before, it is still worth starting the day here and admiring the wonder from outside. Once you’ve visited the Colosseum, head to the Roman Forum.

Roman Forum

• 📍 Location: Via della Salara Vecchia, 5/6, 00186 Roma RM, Italy
• 💰 Price: Included in ticket with Colosseum.
• 🗺 Tips: Visit this street for the best views looking over the Roman Forum.

If you visit the Colosseum with the Roman Forum included in the visit – enjoy!😍

After you are done visiting the Colosseum and possibly the Roman Forum, head to Via di Monte Torpeo for the most beautiful overlooking views of the Roman Forum.

This is a site of ancient Roman ruins that once served as important locations for religious, social, and political activities. Some important sites here are the Senate House, the Temple of Saturn (pictured below), and the Arch of Titus.

To share some interesting history, the Temple of Saturn originally dates back to 498 B.C. and was used as a treasury. This temple was rebuilt over time, so the ancient ruins you see now are from 42 B.C.

Piazza Campidoglio (Capitoline Hill)

After you admire the beautiful Roman Forum from Via di Monte Tarpeo, the stunning Piazza Campidoglio will be right next to you. Piazza Campidoglio, sitting at the top of Capitoline Hill, was designed in the 16th century by none other than Michelangelo. This work of art is surrounded by three buildings, Palazzo Senatorio, the Palazzo dei Conservatori, and Palazzo Nuovo.

When walking in the Campidoglio square, you will notice that the pavement has an off-white circular design with a statue in the middle, sitting on top of a star-like sign. This design of Michelangelo is the Umbilicus Urbis, the “Navel of the City of Rome”.

Optional Hidden Gem Santa Maria in Aracoeli

• 📍 Location: Scala dell’Arce Capitolina, 12, 00186 Roma RM, Italy. Right next to the Altar of the Fatherland.
• 💰 Price: FREE

Once you walk down the stairs that bring you to Piazza Campidoglio, there will be another set of steeper stairs, Scala Santa, that brings you to a beautiful hidden gem, Santa Maria in Aracoeli. This is optional, but highly recommended as it is an absolute work of art!

Not only is the hidden gem a work of art, but at the top of the stairs you will get some beautiful views overlooking Rome. The Scala Santa, Holy Stairs, has a legend that states these are the same stairs Jesus climbed in Jerusalem on the day of his trial.

Go up the Altare della Patria

• 📍 Location: Piazza Venezia, 00186 Roma RM, Italy
• 💰 Price: FREE
• 🗺 Tips: Walk all the way up to the top for some beautiful views of Ancient Rome.

Welcome to Rome’s “wedding cake”, or “typewriter”! The Altar of the Fatherland is an iconic monument dedicated to Vittorio Emanuele II, the first king of unified Italy. This monument is jokingly known as the “wedding cake” due to its newness and pearly-white color when compared to all the ancient Roman buildings that surround it.

The Altar of the Fatherland is free to enter, and the views you get from above are absolutely worth the stairs! If you are with someone who can’t climb stairs, there is an elevator that they can take with a minor payment.

Largo di Torre Argentina & Cat Sanctuary

• 📍 Location: Scavi Archeologici, Largo di Torre Argentina Angolo, Largo Arenula, 00186 Roma RM, Italy
• 💰 Price: FREE

Largo di Torre Argentina is home to the remains of four of the oldest temples of Rome. These four temples were built in honor of different people: Goddess of Fountains, Goddess Fortuna, Goddess of Fertility, and Lares Permarini. In addition to the temples, there are the remains of the Theatre and Curia of Pompey, which is where Julius Ceasar’s assassination took place.

Now, these ancient ruins are home to a loving cat sanctuary. Walk by here to see the ruins and its sweet and beautiful, furry citizens!

Have Lunch in the Roman Jewish Quarter

A short walk from the Largo di Torre is one of Rome’s best-hidden gems and beautiful neighborhoods, the Jewish Quarter.

Established in 1555 by Pope Paul IV, this is one of the world’s oldest ghettos. Up until 1870, Jews were confined to this area and always had to carry a distinctive sign showing they were. Throughout the decades, the Roman Jewish community has continued to grow and thrive more and more – turning the Ghetto into an incredibly beautiful, bustling, and vibrant neighborhood.

This quarter has some of the best restaurants and bakeries, making it a must-visit when traveling through Rome. Two of the most beloved foods in Rome (which are must-tries) are the Carciofi alla Giuda and Fiori di Zucca, all of which come from the Roman Jewish community.

To learn more about the Roman Jewish Ghetto, you can take a walking tour that will guide you through the neighborhood and its history.

Isola Tiberina – Tiber Island

As you make your way towards Rome’s Rose Garden, take a quick detour on the historic and charming island of the Tiber River, Tiber Island. Isola Tiberina is the only island on the Tiber River and is likely the smallest inhabited island in the world.

The history of this island dates back to ancient Roman times with various legends hypothesizing how this island came to exist. For example, there is a legend that explains why the island is shaped like a ship.

The Legend: a Roman ship went to Greece to ask the god of healing for help with the plague epidemic. During the ritual, a snake (symbol of the god of healing) went on the ship to hide and join the sailors on their journey back to Rome. Later on in the journey, the snake swam to the Tiber Island and disappeared – indicating its new home. In honor of that and the plague ending, Romans shaped the island into a ship and populated the island with marble, an obelisk, and temples.

In addition to its many curious and ancient legends, this island is also home to a historically important hospital from the 16th century – Fatebenefratelli “DoWellBrothers” hospital. During the Second World War, two doctors invented a disease, “K disease” to protect Jews.

Long story short, Tiber Island may be small but its history and historical importance most definitely isn’t. Come to this island to appreciate more of ancient Rome and enjoy some beautiful views.

Bocca della Veritá

• 📍 Location: Piazza della Bocca della Verità, 18, 00186 Roma RM, Italy
• 💰 Price: FREE

Ah, the iconic Mouth of Truth! Bocca della Veritá is an ancient, large marble stone mask that dates back to the 1st century CE. Its name dates back to medieval times (the year 1495), with a legend stating that if you are a liar, your hand will be slit up or cut off. In other words, this is one of the world’s first lie detectors!😂

This is a free activity, meaning you may find some longer lines here depending on the day or time of the day. If there’s a long line, you can always peep through the gate and see it up close.

Roseto Comunale – Rome Rose Garden

• 📍 Location: VFMM+X9, 00185 Roma RM, Italy
• 💰 Price: FREE

If you are visiting Rome in the Spring or Autumn season, come visit the mesmerizing Roseto Comunale of Rome. This rose garden is home to over 1,100 types of roses from all over the world – including China and Mongolia.

Giardino degli Aranci & Terrazza

• 📍 Location: Piazza Pietro D’Illiria, 00153 Roma RM, Italy
• 💰 Price: FREE

Just three minutes away from the Rose Garden, is another beautiful park with some spectacular views. Giardino degli Aranci is the perfect spot to stroll around and take a small break from the city. In this park, you will find a terrace that overlooks the city of Rome and its eternality.

Knights of Malta Keyhole

• 📍 Location: Piazza dei Cavalieri di Malta, 3, 00153 Roma RM, Italy
• 💰 Price: FREE

What if I told you you could see St. Peter’s Basilica through a keyhole?

A few steps away from the Giardino degli Aranci is one of the best hidden gems of Rome, the Knights of Malta Keyhole – aka, the coolest keyhole you will ever peep through!

Circo Massimo

• 📍 Location: Via del Circo Massimo, 00186 Roma RM, Italy
• 💰 Price: FREE

Circo Massimo is an ancient Roman stadium for chariot racing and mass entertainment. Here you will see people laying down, having picnics, or even working out.

Trastevere

Sitting on the west bank of the Tiber River is one of Rome’s most charming and vibrant neighborhoods.

Trastevere is beloved by both tourists and locals, with a peaceful and boho atmosphere. From its cobbled street stones to yellow and orange buildings to aesthetic lights, the beauty is neverending. To end your first day on a perfect note, come to this neighborhood for a nice stroll and dinner!

Day 2: Explore the Vatican and Rome’s City Center

Castel Sant’Angelo

• 📍 Location: Lungotevere Castello, 50, 00193 Roma RM, Italy
• 💰 Price: Regular Entry ticket is 15 euros.
• 🗺 Tips: If you are an Italian citizen living abroad, registered with AIRE, or a European Citizen 25 and under, you get discounted/free tickets. Bring your documents to prove it and get free entrance (AIRE) or discounted tickets (EU 25 & Under).

Now this… is the best way to start your second day in Rome!

Castel Sant’Angelo is a hidden gem and a fortress from the 2nd century AD. Throughout the many centuries, this fortress has played different roles and has gone through various renovations. At one point, this landmark was a papal residence during which a narrow bridge was constructed to connect it all the way to the Vatican to allow easy navigation for the Popes.

The best part of Castel Sant’Angelo is the absolutely MESMERIZING views of Rome from both the coffee shop level and the highest rooftop level. Here you will get the best views of Rome, making it the perfect preparation for a day full of adventures throughout the Eternal City.

As you make your way up to the top, definitely stop for a Cappuccino with a side of beautiful Roman views.

Vatican City

After visiting the Castel Sant’Angelo and enjoying a cappuccino with insane views of Rome, it’s time to switch countries!😉

The Vatican City is always a beautiful wonder to admire and walk around.

Should you want to visit the Vatican Museum and its Sistine Chapel, you’ll want to buy skip-the-line tickets and visit early in the morning. The Vatican Museum does not have an entry limit, meaning that early mornings are your best bet to not walk in a tsunami of people.

On a brutally honest note: entering the Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel, and St. Peter’s Basilica are not crucial to your weekend in Rome. In fact, you can visit other places that are even more beautiful without all the insane crowds.

Vatican Museum & Sistine Alternative: Galleria Borghese.

The Borghese Gallery is one of the world’s most renowned art museums and has an impressive art collection with art from the 15th to 18th centuries. Here you will find works of art from artists like Bernini, Botticelli, Raphael, and Caravaggio.

St. Peter’s Basilica Alternative: Basilica San Paolo Fuori le Mura.

If you want to visit St. Peter’s Basilica but don’t want to be surrounded by a tsunami of people, take a detour outside the city and visit this hidden gem: Basilica of St. Paul Outside the Walls. This hidden gem is just as, if not more, beautiful than St. Peter’s Basilica and is barely visited. Out of the four Papal basilicas, this is the second largest one and is incredibly rich in history.

Villa Borghese Gardens & Galleria Borghese

• 📍 Location: 00197 Rome, Metropolitan City of Rome Capital, Italy

After the Vatican, head to the Villa Borghese gardens to enjoy the magnificent oasis that it is. While walking through these gardens you will see lush greenery, picturesque pathways, and serene lakes. In addition, you will find beautiful sculptures and fountains, including some Bernini work. At these gardens, you can take peaceful strolls, go on bike rides, or even rent a rowboat!

After you soak in the beauties of the garden, head to the Galleria Borghese. The Borghese Gallery, as previously mentioned, is a great alternative to the Vatican Museums. With an impressive art collection of works from the 15th-18th centuries and artists like Botticelli, it’s no surprise this is one of the world’s most renowned art museums.

While the gardens are free to enter, the Borghese Gallery is not. Due to being such an important art museum, you will definitely need to book your tickets in advance.

Spanish Steps

• 📍 Location: Piazza di Spagna, 00187 Roma RM, Italy

As you make your way deeper into the city center, walk through the beautiful Piazza di Spagna to check out the iconic Spanish Steps.

As you walk through the Piazza and make your way to the Trevi Fountain, take a close look at the window stores for the marvelous visual merchandising!

Lunch at the Trevi Fountain

• 📍 Location: Piazza di Trevi, 00187 Roma RM, Italy

After such a long morning of adventures, fuel up by having lunch at Pizza in Trevi, one of the best gluten-free restaurants in Rome. This restaurant has two different kitchens, one that is regular and the other that is AIC Certified and safe for celiac people.

The restaurant is right next to the Trevi Fountain, and surprisingly is NOT a touristy trap of any sort. Once you are done having a delicious lunch, head to the Gelato G Italiano for a delicious and cold dessert. Gelato G Italiano is a 100% gluten-free gelateria and is one of the best gelaterias near the Trevi Fountain. Grab your gelato (HIGHLY recommend their Passion Fruit & Mango) and enjoy it with the views of the Trevi Fountain.

Galleria Sciarra

• 📍 Location: Via Marco Minghetti, 10, 00187 Roma RM, Italy.
• 💰 Price: FREE

Galleria Sciarra is a mesmerizing courtyard decorated in beautiful frescoes and the sun rays that pierce through its glass ceiling. This courtyard, commissioned by the influential Sciarra family, was originally designed to be a mall. While it never became a mall, this courtyard remains and is a beautiful hidden gem.

Walk under this small courtyard and admire the mesmerizing art surrounding you, as you make your way to the Trevi Fountain.

Casa del Caffé Tazza D’Oro

• 📍 Location: Via degli Orfani, 84, 00186 Roma RM, Italy

A few steps away from the Pantheon is the holy grail of coffee, the Casa del Caffé Tazza D’Oro. This coffee shop is perfect for a delicious pick-me-up. Their signature drink is the Granita al Caffé con Panna, which is essentially a drink made with finely crushed ice showered in strong coffee and divided by a couple of layers of fresh, homemade whipped cream.

Pantheon

• 📍 Location: Piazza della Rotonda, 00186 Roma RM, Italy
• 💰 Price: FREE

Now it’s time to visit one of ancient Rome’s best-preserved monuments! The Pantheon dates back to 25 B.C. and is thought to have been designed as a temple for the Roman Gods.

The Pantheon is free of entrance and is definitely worth seeing! Due to it being free, there are days where there is no line and others where the line fills up the Piazza.

Piazza Navona

After the Pantheon, it s time to head to one of the most beautiful and iconic Piazzas of Rome, Piazza Navona. This square has three Baroque fountains that simply must be admired from both afar and close up. The three fountains are the Fontana dei Fiumi, the Fontana di Nettuno, and the Fontana del Moro.

Sant’Agnese in Agone

• 📍 Location: Via di Santa Maria dell’Anima, 30/A, 00186 Roma RM, Italy

While you’re in Piazza Navona, step inside its church and discover the magical baroque beauty that lies within. The inside of the Sant’Agnese in Agone church is a hidden gem and a 17th-century Baroque work of art, to say the least.

Arco dei Banchi

• 📍 Location: Via del Banco di Santo Spirito, 47, 00186 Roma RM, Italy

The last hidden gem of the weekend simply has to be the dreamiest one, right? Welcome to the Arco dei Banchi, an ancient Roman arch in the heart of Rome that dates back to the 16th century. In the Renaissance period, this place used to be filled with desks of bankers, scribes, and merchants who would work there.

All that is left now is a small section of it, but nonetheless, it remains a must-see – especially if you’re a sucker for starry skies and deep, vibrant blue color. Come here and let yourself get lost in the endless, hand-painted, little stars.✨🌌

Campo de Fiori

To end the day, head to the beautiful Campo de’ Fiori – a bustling marketplace by day, and a lively social hub by night. This is a fun area to stroll around and grab dinner, and/or drinks at.

What To Know Before Visiting Rome

Weekend Itinerary Map

Here is a little map showing the route for both Days 1 and 2. Open this map as you wander throughout Rome to ensure smooth navigation.

As a note, there is a limit to how many locations you can add per layer on Google Maps. Due to this, the map focuses on the landmarks and attractions farther from one another.

Rome Tourist Card

If you plan to visit both the Colosseum and the Vatican Museums, the Rome Tourist Card is definitely worth considering! I say “considering” because you should make sure this card offers you exactly what you want. Check it out here!👇

Early Mornings

If you hope to see certain attractions with little crowds, early mornings will be your best bet! Usually, around 11 am and 12 pm is when more people start to head into the city.

Scammers & Pickpockets

While Rome is a safe city to visit, it does have many pickpocketers and scammers. Always be aware of your surroundings and ensure all your belongings are in a safe spot.

For example, if you have your phone in your jacket’s pocket – keep your hand on it at all times. Never leaving anything valuable on restaurant tables, keep bags in front of you, and so forth.

In addition, if someone gets close to you and tries to offer you something for free, it is a scam. If you see drawings or paintings, even a clear plastic cup with coins, stay clear to ensure you don’t step on them.

Want more help with your Rome travels? Check out my services!

One of the main reasons I became I travel blogger is my love and passion for helping others experience the best of their destination. I offer three services on Thatch: Customized Itineraries, Customized Recommendations, and Consultation Calls.

If you want extra help on your Rome and Italy travels, check out my Thatch page and book my services!

Read More About Rome

• 28 Best and Unusual Things to Do in Rome | Local’s Guide
• 25 Best HIDDEN GEMS of Rome That You Cannot Miss
• One Day in Rome: The Perfect Itinerary with Hidden Gems
• Day Trip to Florence from Rome: Everything You Need to Know
• Rome’s Food: Must-Eats & Everything You Need to Know
• 16 Best Restaurants in a Gluten Free Rome: A Celiac’s Guide
• Visiting Rome in December: All You Need to Know

I have to ask…

How excited are you to be spending a weekend in Rome?!😍 Let me know in the comments if it’s your first time visiting the Eternal City, and what you are looking forward to the most!

If you found this blog post helpful, please share this with friends and family who may find this helpful. If you have any questions regarding the itinerary, leave a comment below or contact me!