Itinerary : Rome in 1 Day (24h)
To discover Rome in 24 hours, it is important to prioritize and organize your time carefully. Here is a detailed guide to optimize your time and get the most out of your day in Rome. Start your tours early (if possible as early as 8am) to make the most of your day.
Staying in Rome longer? Discover our itineraries here for 2 days, 3 days, 4 days, 5 days, 6 days and 7 days. You can also find all our recommended itineraries here.
- Morning in the Heart of Ancient Rome
- Visit the Colosseum
- Explore the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill
- Lunch Break: Savor the Local Cuisine
- Cultural Afternoon in the Historic Center
- Pantheon
- Piazza Navona
- Late Afternoon: Vatican
- St. Peter's Square & St. Peter's Basilica
- Evening: Roman Atmosphere in Trastevere
- Trastevere, charming neighborhood
- Practical Tips to Optimize Your Visit
Morning in the Heart of Ancient Rome
Visit the Colosseum
Start your morning with the Colosseum, an iconic symbol of Rome. The Colosseum usually opens its doors at 9 am (check the opening times as they vary throughout the year) but if you arrive earlier, you can already enjoy the square and the view of the Roman Forum before it opens. Beautiful photos in perspective! Save time by opting for a skip-the-line ticket or a guided tour of the Colosseum.
Explore the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill
Walk in the footsteps of the Roman Emperors at the Roman Forum and the Palatine Hill. The Roman Forum, the nerve center of Antiquity, brings together the ruins of temples, basilicas and historical monuments. Adjacent, Palatine Hill offers panoramic views and houses the remains of imperial palaces.
To make the most of this wonderful site, book your entrance now with a combined ticket or a guided tour of the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill.
Lunch Break: Savor the Local Cuisine
Roman Culinary Experience: Rome also delights the taste buds. Treat yourself to a break with a pizza or pasta at an authentic Roman trattoria.
Cultural Afternoon in the Historic Center
Pantheon
The Pantheon, a remarkably preserved ancient building, is impressive with its huge dome and its central oculus. Dedicated to all the gods, this ancient temple transformed into a church houses illustrious tombs, including that of Raphael. A masterpiece of Roman architecture. It is wise to consider purchasing skip-the-line tickets for the Pantheon, to avoid long queues, especially during peak tourist season.
The Piazza Navona, located in the heart of Rome, is a famous baroque square for its majestic fountains, including the Fountain of the Four Rivers by Bernini. Surrounded by historical palaces, lively cafes, and street artists, it embodies Roman elegance and is a must-see meeting place for visitors.
Discover Piazza Navona now, the perfect place for a coffee or to watch street artists.
Late Afternoon: Vatican
St. Peter's Square & St. Peter's Basilica
The St. Peter's Square, a vast esplanade surrounded by majestic colonnades, is the spiritual heart of the Vatican. Dominated by St. Peter's Basilica, a masterpiece of Renaissance architecture, it houses artistic treasures such as Michelangelo's Pietà. An iconic place for pilgrims and visitors from all over the world.
Entrance to the basilica is free. However, we recommend opting for a guided tour of St. Peter's Basilica to enrich your experience.
Evening: Roman Atmosphere in Trastevere
Trastevere, charming neighborhood
Trastevere, a picturesque district of Rome, charms with its cobblestone streets, its colorful houses and its bohemian atmosphere. Known for its lively nightlife and its traditional trattorias, it is a place where the authenticity of Rome is truly lived.
Discover the magnificent Basilica of Santa Maria in Trastevere. Enjoy an authentic dinner to conclude this unforgettable day.
To fully appreciate Rome in one day, it is essential to start early and stay flexible. Visiting the Colosseum takes place in a specific time slot when booking the ticket. Book your ticket for the Colosseum as soon as possible. Visits can be adjusted according to personal interests and available energy. Remember, Rome wasn't explored in a day!
Practical Tips to Optimize Your Visit
- Advance Bookings: Save time and money with tourist passes, offering fast access to Rome's main attractions.
- Smart Travel: For easy and complete exploration of Rome, consider Hop-on Hop-off Buses that will allow you to see the best sites hassle-free.
- Appropriate Clothing: Dress comfortably and respect the dress code of sacred places.
- Stay Hydrated: Fill your water bottle in the summer at the drinking fountains scattered throughout the city.
With this guide, your trip to Rome will not only be memorable but also optimized to make the most of the cultural and historical richness of this beautiful city. Don't miss this chance to experience the Dolce Vita, even if it's just for a day!
Do you have a special wish for your day in Rome? Adapt the proposed itinerary by discovering the 20 Major Sites to see in Rome or even the Thematic Museums and Special Collections of Rome. Use our carte touristique de Rome for moving around** efficiently in the city and spotting places to see near your accommodation.
If you only had one day to explore Rome, which sites would you absolutely choose to visit? Share your suggestions or personal experiences of the must-sees of this historic city in the comments below. Your recommendations will help other travelers plan their perfect getaway to the Eternal City!
