Whether you're arriving at Termini Station or heading straight to your hotel, the fashionable Monti district is a perfect place to begin your adventure of a city that was once the centre of the world. It is easy to get lost among the neighbourhood’s colourful side streets, which are full of irresistible local osterias. Stop for a glass of local wine and a hearty Roman lunch to fuel for the day ahead.
Just a short stroll south, you’ll come face-to-face with the mighty Colosseum – Rome’s crown jewel and a must-see. While impressive on your own, it’s worth joining a guided tour to bring to life the blood-soaked stories of gladiators, emperors and roaring crowds. Don’t miss the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill nearby for a deeper dive into ancient Rome’s political and social heart.
After recharging at your hotel, there is nowhere better to spend the evening than Trastevere across the river from the main Centro Historico. With low rising buildings making up its cobbled streets, often connected by busy piazzas, it feels like a separate town placed in the heart of Rome. Each street and square consist of bars and restaurants full of locals and visitors alike, creating an authentic atmosphere and buzz that is unrivalled in Rome.
Monti neighbourhood
Colosseum
Trastevere is known for its abundance of restaurants
Start your day with a scenic riverside walk (or a short taxi ride) to Vatican City. Whether you simply take in the grandeur of St. Peter’s Square, or immerse yourself in the Sistine Chapel and Vatican Museums with a guided tour, this miniature country delivers a breathtaking experience that transcends belief systems.
Head east to Piazza Navona, one of Rome’s most photogenic squares. Anchored by Bernini’s Fountain of the Four Rivers and surrounded by cafés and street performers, it's an ideal place to relax. While in the same area, it would be unforgivable not to visit the famous Pantheon. With stone columns supporting a marble facade in front of the large ancient chapel, renowned for a hole in its roof to allow a ray of light to breathtakingly illuminate the building, it is one of the greatest feats of Roman architecture.
Whether before or after, these sights mentioned are walking distance from two of Rome’s most famous monuments. A short stroll will lead to one being awe-struck by the intricacy of the Trevi fountain, which is even better appreciated at night when it is lit up and less busy. As the afternoon fades, toss a coin over your left shoulder (legend says it guarantees a return to Rome) and admire the dramatic baroque masterpiece.
Slightly further north, the Spanish Steps perfectly encapsulate everything great about Rome. An imposing obelisk and basilica overlook the steps from the top, from which wonderful views over the city can be found, and some of the finest hotels and shops sit among bright avenues nearby. Once you escape the crowds at the bottom of the steps you can wander cobbled streets and easily find another traditional osteria.
Vatican City
Trevi Fountain
Piazza Navona
Two days in Rome barely scratches the surface, but even a short stay offers a glimpse into 2,000 years of grandeur, artistry and passion. Whether you came for the history, the food or the romance, one thing is certain: Rome will call you back.