The Italian capital has to be one of my favourite destinations in all of Europe. You have iconic historical landmarks, some of the best food in the world, and a whole lot of Italian culture. 48 hours in Rome gives you just enough time to explore this ancient city. This short itinerary goes through all the key information that you need, along with ideas to make your trip unforgettable. Enjoy!
48 Hours in Rome | Your Quick Itinerary 2025
Day 1: Ancient Rome and the City Centre
Morning
Of course, any great Roman adventure starts in one of the world’s most iconic landmarks; the Colosseum. For just €30 per person, you can walk in the footsteps of the Roman gladiators and see the architectural wonder up close. As part of your ticket, you’ll also get access to the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill, both of which add depth to understanding Roman culture.
Tip: Make sure that you book your tickets in advance to avoid the queues and possible disappointment. The Colosseum also gets very busy, so aim to book here for as early as possible (from 08:30 each day).
Lunch
For lunch, you of course need to sample some local Italian food. I would recommend Trattoria Luzzi. It serves some absolutely incredible local food, such as authentic pasta dishes. It is also relatively affordable and just down the road from the Colosseum. If you are in the mood for pizza, then head over to Li Rioni A Santiquattro.
Afternoon
After a delicious lunch, walk to Piazza Venezia. From the Colosseum, this will take you about 13 minutes. You can also catch the 87 bus, which shaves a few minutes off the journey.
Once you arrive, climb up Capitoline Hill for some of the best views around. Once you are here, visit the nearby Capitoline Museums, which house some of the most impressive collections of artefacts and classical art.
Evening
In the evening, walk to the Trevi Fountain. Legend has it that you ensure your return to Rome if you toss a coin into it. For dinner, head to Piccolo Buco for some incredible pizza or, for something different, try Ristorante Sora Lucia for authentic Italian food.
Tip: If the fountain is busy, have an early dinner first and then come back to it. It usually gets quiet around the time people eat.
Day 2: Vatican City and Baroque Splendor
Morning
On the second day of your 48 hours in Rome, you are technically leaving Italy and heading into a new country; the Vatican City. You won’t need any passports or visas to enter the heart of Catholicism, but you will need the entire morning to take it all in. To get inside the ancient buildings, you’ll need to book tickets. The price of these vary depending on what you want to see. However, for the Sistine Chapel and the Vatican Museums will cost you around €20.00 to book. To see the dome of St. Peter’s Basilica it will cost you an additional €22.00 to book your ticket. This might seem pricey, but you’ll be rewarded with arguably the best panoramic views of the city.
Tip: Make sure that you shop around for the best prices. Some of the tours are significantly more expensive, sometimes even double the price!
Lunch
For lunch today, go to the nearby restaurant called Il Sorpasso. I really love it here, from the cool vibe inside to the delicious local food. It is the perfect end to a busy morning.
Afternoon
From Il Sorpasso, cross the Ponte Sant’Angelo towards the Piazza Navona. This walk takes around half an hour, or you can catch a bus (48 or 62) to halve the time. I quite like the walk though as you get some lovely views.
Once you arrive in the square, take your time to stroll around and enjoy the scenery and delicate fountains. From here it is a short distance to the Pantheon, one of the most incredible feats of ancient engineering in the world. To enter, tickets cost €5 per adult. Whilst you’re in the area you might want to make a quick detour to Frigidarium for a refreshment break – in my opinion some of the best ice cream in Rome! Alternatively Two Sizes is just down the road where you can pick up some takeaway tiramisu.
Evening
In the evening, you’ll conclude your adventure in Rome with a trip to the quaint neighbourhood of Trastevere. This is not only home to some charming cobblestone streets, but also for the collection of excellent restaurants. Take your time to browse these and find a place to have dinner. We particularly enjoyed our meals at Nannarella and Mimi e Coco.
Other Suggestions
If you have a bit longer in Rome, or have already seen some of the iconic sights above, then there are some fantastic alternative options.
Villa Borghese Gardens: Walk around one of the nicest parks in the city and take in the peace and quiet. You can also visit the Galleria Borghese to admire the wonderful art collection. Another option here is to rent a bike for only €3 per hour, or a boat for €4 per hour.
Campo de’ Fiori & Jewish Ghetto: Each morning from 07:00 to 14:00, the morning market arrives at Campo de’ Fiori. Here you can find tonnes of local produce, ranging from fresh flowers to fruit. Once you have done that, explore the nearby Jewish Ghetto to learn about its history.
Appian Way (Via Appia Antica): See arguably the most strategic road built in Rome and walk alongside it. You’ll find plenty of ancient history here, including the ancient road itself, ruins and even catacombs like San Sebastiano and San Callisto.
Testaccio District: If you are looking for the foodie scene in Rome, it is arguably the Testaccio District. Why not conclude your 48 hours in Rome with a food tour here?
Shopping and People-Watching: For a more leisurely approach, you could spend the afternoon on Via del Corso or Via Condotti. Here you’ll find plenty of designer stores, ready for you to shop until you drop.
Janiculum Hill (Gianicolo): If you didn’t brave St. Peter’s Dome but are craving panoramic views, then the best place has to be Janiculum Hill. You’ll get fantastic views, see beautiful gardens and be able to admire monuments like the Fontana dell’Acqua Paola.
Evening Drinks in Monti: The Monti District is one of the coolest places in Rome. It has plenty of options for a cocktail or wine, whatever you prefer. For a trendy bar, try Ai Are Scalini or the Oro Bistrot’s rooftop bar.
48 Hours in Rome | Top Tips
- Getting Around: I like getting around Rome by foot. However, if you don’t fancy that, there is an excellent Metro and bus service. For 48 hours in Rome your pass will cost € 12.50.
- When to Visit: Many sights get busy quickly and you’ll need to get there early to avoid the crowds. This is particularly important for those where you don’t have a designated time booked.
- What to Pack: Rome has plenty of water fountains in the city. Make sure that you take a reusable water bottle to take full advantage.
Final Thoughts | 48 Hours in Rome
Two days in Rome gives you just enough time to see the city’s main attractions. This has to be one of my favourite European cities and this guide barely scratches the surface. If you have any questions, then please let me know.
