One day in Rome

If you only have one day in Rome, you’re in for an exciting, whirlwind experience! Rome is a city brimming with history, art, and culture, and even in a single day, you can hit some of the must-see landmarks that make the Eternal City so iconic. Here’s an ideal itinerary to make the most of your limited time:

Morning: Start with Ancient Rome

1. Colosseum (8:30 AM - 9:30 AM)

Begin your day with one of Rome’s most famous landmarks — the Colosseum. Arrive early to beat the crowds and take in the grandeur of this ancient amphitheater. Imagine gladiators battling it out while you marvel at its architecture. If you want to skip the line, consider pre-booking your tickets or booking a guided tour to learn more about its fascinating history.

2. Roman Forum & Palatine Hill (9:30 AM - 11:00 AM)

Just a short walk from the Colosseum, the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill are home to the ruins of ancient Roman government buildings and temples. Walk through the remains of the heart of the Roman Empire and enjoy panoramic views from Palatine Hill, where the emperors once resided.

Mid-Morning: Piazza Venezia and Capitoline Hill

3. Piazza Venezia & Capitoline Hill (11:00 AM - 11:45 AM)

After soaking up the history of Ancient Rome, head to Piazza Venezia, where you’ll find the imposing Altare della Patria (Victor Emmanuel Monument). From here, take a quick walk to Capitoline Hill, one of Rome’s seven hills, to admire the views of the Roman Forum below and the beautiful Piazza del Campidoglio designed by Michelangelo.

Lunch: A Taste of Roman Cuisine (12:00 PM - 1:00 PM)

By now, you’ve probably worked up an appetite! Grab lunch at a local trattoria or café. Try a traditional cacio e pepe (pasta with cheese and pepper), or enjoy a classic Roman pizza al taglio (pizza by the slice). You’ll find plenty of good spots around Campo de’ Fiori.

Afternoon: Baroque Rome & Iconic Landmarks

4. Trevi Fountain (1:30 PM - 2:00 PM)

No visit to Rome is complete without tossing a coin into the Trevi Fountain! This famous Baroque masterpiece is one of the most iconic fountains in the world. Take a moment to admire the stunning sculptures and make a wish for your next visit to Rome.

5. Pantheon (2:15 PM - 3:00 PM)

Next, head to the Pantheon, a well-preserved ancient Roman temple now serving as a church. Its dome, with an oculus that lets in natural light, is a marvel of engineering. It’s free to enter, and the beauty of the architecture will leave you in awe.

6. Piazza Navona (3:00 PM - 3:30 PM)

Stroll to Piazza Navona, one of the most beautiful squares in Rome. Admire the Fountain of the Four Rivers by Bernini and enjoy the lively atmosphere of street artists and performers. It’s a perfect spot to sit, relax, and enjoy the charming surroundings.

Late Afternoon: Vatican City

7. St. Peter’s Basilica (4:00 PM - 5:00 PM)

Next, head to Vatican City, the smallest country in the world. While you won’t have time to explore the entire Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel, make sure to visit St. Peter’s Basilica. The awe-inspiring church is home to Michelangelo’s Pietà and offers stunning views from the dome (if you’re feeling adventurous, you can climb to the top).

8. St. Peter’s Square (5:00 PM - 5:30 PM)

Take a moment to step outside and admire St. Peter’s Square, with its grand colonnades and the obelisk at the center. The square is a beautiful place to reflect on your day and take in the scale of the Vatican.

Evening: Sunset and Dinner

9. Spanish Steps and Piazza di Spagna (6:00 PM - 6:30 PM)

As the sun begins to set, head to the Spanish Steps for a relaxing break. It’s a great spot to people-watch and enjoy the beauty of the surrounding area, including the Trinità dei Monti church at the top and the Barcaccia Fountain at the bottom.

10. Dinner at a Traditional Roman Trattoria (7:00 PM - 8:30 PM)

End your day with a delightful dinner in one of Rome’s charming trattorias. Trastevere is a perfect neighborhood for an authentic Roman meal. Try dishes like saltimbocca alla romana (veal with prosciutto) or carciofi alla romana (Roman-style artichokes) to round out your Roman experience.

Optional: Evening Stroll or Gelato

If you have a bit of energy left, consider taking a gentle stroll along the Tiber River or enjoy a late-night gelato at Giolitti, one of the best gelato spots in Rome.

Conclusion:

One day in Rome is never enough to see everything, but with this itinerary, you’ll get a well-rounded taste of the city’s rich history, culture, and stunning landmarks. From the ancient ruins of the Colosseum to the splendor of St. Peter’s Basilica, Rome offers an unforgettable experience for every traveler.

Tip: Make sure to wear comfortable shoes, as you’ll be walking a lot! Also, consider booking skip-the-line tickets for the most popular attractions to save time.