Ancient Rome Itinerary: Discovering the Historical Remains

This itinerary offers a deeper exploration of ancient Rome, combining iconic sites with lesser-known but equally fascinating locations. It favors a thematic and chronological approach for a better understanding of the city's history and evolution.

The proposed itinerary is over 4 days. Feel free to adapt it to your needs or use it as inspiration depending on the length of your stay in Rome.

Bring comfortable shoes, a water bottle, a hat, and sunscreen. A Roma Pass can be advantageous for transportation and access to sites. See our article on the best tourist cards for Rome.

Day 1: The Roman Forum, Palatine Hill, and the House of the Vestal Virgins – The Cradle of Rome and Republican Power

Morning

• The Roman Forum: Begin your journey to the heart of ancient Rome at the Roman Forum. Spend a good part of the morning exploring this public space, the political, social, and religious center of the Roman Republic. Immerse yourself in history by visiting the remains of the Basilica Julia, the Temple of Saturn, the Arch of Septimius Severus, the Rostra (speaker's platforms), the Curia Julia (seat of the Senate), and the Via Sacra. An audio guide or guided tour is highly recommended for a deeper understanding of the history and architecture of these buildings. Take the time to soak in the atmosphere of this historical space, imagining the bustling life that animated the Forum centuries ago.

Lunch: Enjoy a light lunch at a restaurant or café near the Forum.

Afternoon

• Palatine Hill and the House of the Vestal Virgins: After lunch, climb Palatine Hill, one of the seven legendary hills of Rome, the mythical birthplace of Romulus and Remus. Explore the remains of the imperial palaces and admire the panoramic views of the Roman Forum. Then visit the House of the Vestal Virgins, the virgin priestesses who maintained the sacred fire of Vesta, goddess of the hearth. The House of the Vestal Virgins offers a fascinating glimpse into the lives of these influential women in Roman society.

Day 2: The Colosseum, the Arch of Constantine, and Trajan's Forum – The Empire and Imperial Spectacle

Morning

• The Colosseum and the Arch of Constantine: Continue your discovery of Ancient Rome by starting your day with a thorough visit to the Colosseum, the iconic symbol of the Roman Empire. Explore the arena, the different levels, the corridors, and the underground. Imagine the atmosphere of the games and gladiatorial combats. After the Colosseum, admire the Arch of Constantine, a triumphal arch erected to celebrate the victory of Constantine I over Maxentius in 312 AD. The arch is decorated with sculptures from other monuments, testifying to the reuse of materials in the Roman Empire.

Lunch: Lunch near the Colosseum or in the Monti district.

Afternoon

• Trajan's Forum: Dedicate the afternoon to Trajan's Forum, a monumental architectural complex built under Emperor Trajan. Visit the Trajan's Column, adorned with bas-reliefs illustrating the emperor's military campaigns, the Trajan Markets, a sophisticated commercial complex, and the Basilica Ulpia. Trajan's Forum testifies to the grandeur of the Roman Empire under Trajan and his urbanistic ambition.

Day 3: The Pantheon, Piazza Navona, and the Baths of Caracalla – Roman Ingenuity, Art, and Leisure

Morning

• The Pantheon and Piazza Navona: Visit the Pantheon, a remarkably well-preserved masterpiece of Roman architecture. Admire its majestic dome, the oculus, and the perfection of its construction. After the Pantheon, explore Piazza Navona (Piazza Navona), a magnificent Baroque square built on the site of the Stadium of Domitian, an ancient Roman stadium. Admire the Baroque fountains, churches, and palaces that surround the square. The contrast between ancient history and Baroque architecture is fascinating.

Lunch: Lunch at a restaurant near Piazza Navona or the Pantheon.

Afternoon

• The Baths of Caracalla: Visit the Baths of Caracalla, the largest and most luxurious public baths in ancient Rome. Explore the vast ruins and imagine the social life and leisure activities that took place there. The baths offer a glimpse into the daily lives of the Romans and the importance of public baths in their culture.

Day 4: The Appian Way, the Catacombs, and Castel Sant'Angelo – Beyond the Walls and the End of the Empire

Morning

• The Appian Way: Spend the morning exploring the Appian Way, the famous Roman road. You can rent a bike or take a walk along this historic road, observing the remains of tombs, villas, and aqueducts. The peaceful atmosphere of the Roman countryside contrasts with the hustle and bustle of the city center. Choose a section of the Appian Way based on your time and preferences.

Lunch: Lunch near the Appian Way or bring a picnic to enjoy outdoors.

Afternoon

• The Catacombs and Castel Sant'Angelo: Visit the Catacombs, such as the Catacombs of Callixtus or Domitilla, for a fascinating glimpse into early Christian life in Rome. A guided tour is recommended. To end the day, visit Castel Sant'Angelo, initially a mausoleum for Emperor Hadrian, then transformed into a fortress and papal palace. Castel Sant'Angelo offers a perspective on the end of the Roman Empire and its evolution over the centuries.