2 Days in Rome: What to See and Do
Rome is the kind of city where every street seems to tell a story. From the remains of Ancient Rome to elegant piazzas, lively neighbourhoods and unforgettable Italian food, there is plenty to discover. If you only have 2 days in Rome you can experience the city's most iconic sights and get a real taste of the Roman way of life. A hop-on hop-off bus tour in Rome is a convenient way to get around the city and make the most of your time.
From the Colosseum and Trevi Fountain to Vatican City and Trastevere, here is how to make the most of a 2-day trip to Rome.
Day 1: Ancient Rome and the Historic Centre
Your first day is all about discovering the heart of Rome, from its ancient ruins to its famous fountains, piazzas and streets.
Morning: Step Back in Time at the Colosseum
Start your day at the Colosseum, one of Rome's most recognisable landmarks and a must-see on any first trip to the city. Built nearly 2,000 years ago, this ancient amphitheatre once hosted gladiatorial contests and public spectacles and remains an impressive reminder of Rome's imperial past.
Continue your visit with the Roman Forum, where temples, basilicas and public buildings once formed the centre of political and social life in Ancient Rome. Then head up Palatine Hill, traditionally considered the birthplace of Rome and one of the city's famous seven hills.
The Colosseum and surrounding archaeological sites can take several hours to explore, booking your tickets in advance is a good idea, particularly during busy periods.
Afternoon: Discover Rome's Historic Centre
After lunch, head towards the historic centre and discover some of Rome's most beautiful squares and monuments.
Start with the Pantheon, one of the best-preserved buildings from Ancient Rome, before continuing to Piazza Navona. With its Baroque fountains, cafés and lively atmosphere, it is one of the city's most enjoyable places to stop and take in the surroundings.
From there, make your way to the Trevi Fountain, one of Rome's most famous sights. Don't forget to toss a coin into the fountain before continuing towards the Spanish Steps and Piazza di Spagna.
This part of Rome is best explored at a relaxed pace. Take a few minutes to wander through the surrounding streets, browse local shops or stop for a traditional Italian gelato. After a morning of sightseeing, a scoop (or two!) is a very good excuse for a break.
Evening: Taste Traditional Roman Cuisine
Rome is not only about ancient monuments and beautiful architecture. Food is an essential part of the Roman experience, and dinner is the perfect opportunity to discover the city's culinary traditions.
Look out for classic Roman dishes such as:
- Carbonara, made with eggs, Pecorino Romano, guanciale and black pepper
- Cacio e pepe, a simple but delicious combination of pasta, Pecorino Romano and black pepper
- Amatriciana, traditionally prepared with tomato, guanciale and Pecorino
- Supplì, crispy fried rice balls with a melted mozzarella centre
For a more authentic experience, choose a traditional Roman trattoria away from the busiest tourist streets. Sit down, take your time and enjoy dinner the Italian way.
Day 2: Vatican City, Trastevere and the Dolce Vita
On your second day, discover another side of Rome, combining world-famous art and architecture with charming streets, local food and the relaxed atmosphere of the city's neighbourhoods.
Morning: Explore Vatican City
Start your morning in Vatican City, the world's smallest independent state and home to some of the most famous religious and artistic treasures in the world.
Visit St. Peter's Basilica and admire its monumental architecture before exploring the Vatican Museums, home to an extraordinary collection of artworks accumulated over centuries. The visit culminates in the Sistine Chapel, famous for Michelangelo's spectacular frescoes.
The Vatican is one of Rome's busiest attractions, so planning ahead is essential. Booking your tickets in advance can save valuable time, especially when you only have two days to explore the city.
Allow several hours for your visit and remember to check the dress requirements before going.
Afternoon: Discover Castel Sant'Angelo and the Tiber
After your visit to Vatican City, walk towards the Tiber River and Castel Sant'Angelo.
Originally built as a mausoleum for Emperor Hadrian, Castel Sant'Angelo has had many different roles throughout Rome's history. Its distinctive shape and riverside location make it one of the city's most recognisable landmarks.
Even if you don't visit the interior, the area is worth exploring. From here, you can enjoy views towards St. Peter's Basilica and take a pleasant walk along the Tiber before continuing towards Trastevere.
Late Afternoon: Explore Trastevere
Cross the river and discover Trastevere, one of Rome's most atmospheric neighbourhoods.
With its narrow cobbled streets, colourful façades, small squares and lively cafés, Trastevere offers a different experience from the grand monuments of central Rome. Take your time to wander without a strict itinerary and enjoy the local atmosphere.
Visit Piazza di Santa Maria, browse the independent shops or stop at a café for a coffee. The neighbourhood is also known for its traditional restaurants, making it an excellent place to experience Roman food away from the city's main tourist sights.
This is Rome at its most relaxed: less about ticking landmarks off a list and more about enjoying the streets, the people and the atmosphere.
Evening: Enjoy an Italian Aperitivo
End your 2 days in Rome with one of Italy's favourite traditions: aperitivo.
Find a local bar, order a drink and enjoy a few small bites before dinner. It is a simple but very Italian way to slow down after a busy day of sightseeing.
For dinner, stay in Trastevere and choose a traditional trattoria to enjoy one last Roman meal. Finish with a gelato and an evening stroll through the illuminated streets.
After two days of monuments, art, pasta and piazzas, this is the perfect way to embrace the dolce vita before leaving Rome.
Need more inspiration for your trip to Rome?
Rome has so much more to offer beyond its most famous landmarks. If you're looking for more ideas, discover our guide to the best things to do in Rome and find out what to see, visit and experience during your stay. Travelling with children? Our guide to Rome with the family will help you find fun activities and family-friendly places to explore together. From ancient ruins and impressive architecture to charming neighbourhoods and local food, there is always something new to discover in the Italian capital.
Ready to discover Rome?
Two days in Rome may only give you a taste of the city, but they are enough to experience its incredible history, iconic landmarks, vibrant neighbourhoods and unforgettable cuisine. From the ancient Colosseum to the lively streets of Trastevere, every stop offers a new way to experience the Italian capital.
To make the most of your stay, climb aboard a hop-on hop-off bus tour in Rome and discover Rome from a different perspective. Enjoy panoramic views, hop off near the landmarks you want to explore and continue your journey whenever you're ready. A simple and flexible way to make every moment in Rome count.