Things to do in Rome

Explore Rome in 2 days, a weekend in Rome itinerary

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In Planning a weekend in Rome? This Italian city is well-known for its rich culture, history, and heritage. It is home to some world-famous attractions such as the Colosseum, St. Peter’s Basilica, and more. That’s not all, it is also the gateway to the Pope’s home - the Vatican City. Whether you are looking for exciting nightlife, delicious Italian dishes, or historical monuments to explore, this city has it all.

If you are planning to spend a weekend in Rome, then this well-planned itinerary can help you make the most of your trip here.


2 Days in Rome - How To Spend Your Day


  • Day 1 in Rome: Vatican & Sistine Chapel, St. Peter’s Basilica & Dome, Necropolis , Castel Sant Angelo, Piazza Navona 
  • Day 2 in Rome: Colosseum, Roman Forum & Palatine Hill , Borghese Gallery , Terrazza del Pincio , Trevi Fountain

Rome In 2 Days - Detailed Itinerary


Day 1

Exploring The Fabulous Vatican City

Run Time

Vatican & Sistine Chapel

Price

St. Peter’s Basilica & Dome

Duration

Vatican Necropolis

Duration

Castel Sant Angelo

Duration

Piazza Navona

Weekend in Rome
Weekend in Rome
Weekend in Rome

The Vatican Museums

MORNING 7:15 AM || RECOMMENDED DURATION: 1 HOUR
Why It's Made Our List

  • The collection of paintings is so huge at the museums that devoting a minute to each painting within the museums would take you 4 years to fully explore it!
  • The Vatican Museum comprises 54 museums, housing renowned attractions such as the Sistine Chapel, the Chapel of Beato Angelico, the Raphael Rooms and Loggia, and the Borgia Apartment.
  • The museum contains the largest collection of art in the world with 9 miles of pieces, which could wrap four and half times around the Vatican walls.
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Vatican Museums Guide

What To Know About Vatican Museums Before Your Visit: The Complete Travelogue

Make a checklist of what you should not forget to see or do on your visit with the help of this guide.

St. Peter’s Basilica & Dome

NOON 12:00 AM || RECOMMENDED DURATION: 2 HOURS
Why It's Made Our List

  • One of the world's largest and most renowned Catholic churches, and a magnificent example of Renaissance architecture.
  • Home to Michelangelo's stunning sculpture, "Pietà", and also the burial place of many popes.
  • Don't miss out on the panoramic views of Rome from the top of the dome!
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St. Peter’s Basilica Guide

St. Peter’s Basilica Guidebook: Discover The Most Visited Church In The World

Fancy yourself a convenient guided tour of this revered attraction? Check out our guide to choosing the right St. Peter's Basilica guided tour right away!
🔥 Hot Local Tip 🔥

Though entrance to St. Peter’s Basilica is free, entering the Vatican Museums isn’t. But be sure not to miss the latter, for the historical and cultural significance of both are equally important to getting the full experience

Vatican Necropolis

AFTERNOON 2:30 PM || RECOMMENDED DURATION: 1-2 HOURS
Why It's Made Our List

  • An ancient burial ground located beneath St. Peter's Basilica, the Vatican Necropolis, provides a unique glimpse into Roman history and early Christian burials.
  • Holds a lot of significance in both history and Christendom. The supposed final resting place of St. Peter, the first pope, the Necropolis contains rich archaeological discoveries.

🔥 Hot Local Tip 🔥

Ensure that you make your booking at least 3-4 weeks in advance in order to secure your place. The tickets for the Necropolis are high in demand and may get sold out if you book last minute. For a private tour, you will need to email the Fabric of Saint Peter directly

Castel Sant Angelo

EVENING 5:00 PM || RECOMMENDED DURATION: 1-2 HOURS
Why It's Made Our List

  • A majestic fortress with a rich history dating back to ancient Rome, Castel Sant Angelo offers breathtaking views of the Tiber River and Rome's skyline.
  • Castel Angelo has a rich history owing to its changing functionality over the centuries - it has been a mausoleum, fortress, and papal residence. Originally meant to be defensive fortress, it connected to the Vatican City through a secret underground passage
  • Today, the fortress Houses a museum showcasing art, sculptures, and historical artifacts.

Piazza Navona

LATE EVENING 6:00 PM || RECOMMENDED DURATION: 2 HOUR
Why It's Made Our List

  • A stunning Baroque square known for its vibrant atmosphere, the Piazza Navona is famous for the three beautiful fountains it is home to, including Bernini's Fountain of the Four Rivers.
  • The Piazza often hosts various street performers, artists, and local markets, making it a perfect place for a leisurely stroll for when you want to unwind after a hectice day of sightseeing!
More Reads on Piazza Navona Rome
Day 2

Sauntering Through Ancient Rome

Run Time

Colosseum

Price

Roman Forum & Palatine Hill

Duration

Borghese Gallery

Duration

Terrazza del Pincio

Duration

Trevi Fountain

Weekend in Rome
Weekend in Rome
Weekend in Rome

Colosseum, Roman Forum & Palatine Hill

MORNING 9:00 AM || RECOMMENDED DURATION: 4-6 HOURS
Why It's Made Our List

  • Colosseum: An iconic symbol of ancient Rome and one of the world's largest amphitheaters. It offers a glimpse into the grandeur of Roman engineering and entertainment. Fascinating historical significance as a venue for gladiatorial contests and spectacles. Guided tours provide in-depth information and insights. Magnificent photo opportunities and breathtaking views both inside and outside the structure.
  • Roman Forum: The legendary birthplace of Rome and one of its seven hills. Offers panoramic views of the city and the Circus Maximus. Contains the ruins of imperial palaces, including the Domus Augustana. Provides a serene and picturesque setting for leisurely walks amidst ancient ruins and beautiful gardens. Offers a glimpse into the luxurious lifestyles of Roman emperors.
  • Palatine Hill: The political, commercial, and social center of ancient Rome. Ancient ruins showcasing the city's history and architectural marvels. Houses important structures like the Temple of Saturn and the Arch of Titus. Provides a fascinating insight into Roman daily life and government. Strolling through the forum allows you to imagine the bustling city life that once thrived in this historical hub.

🔥 Hot Local Tip 🔥

The views of Rome and the Colosseum from atop the Palatine Hill are the best in the city; don’t miss out on bringing a camera!

Borghese Gallery

NOON 12:00 AM || RECOMMENDED DURATION: 2-3 HOURS
Why It's Made Our List

  • Home to an exceptional collection of art and sculptures, the Borghese Gallery houses works of maestros such as Bernini, Caravaggio, and Raphael.
  • Intimate and well-curated museum with limited entry to preserve the experience, whether or not you're an art enthusiast, you will definitely enjoy it!
  • The Borghese Gallery is within the premises of the Borghese Villa, which includes the beautifully landscaped Borghese Gardens.

🔥 Hot Local Tip 🔥

Explore the Villa Borghese on a bicycle!

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Borghese Gallery Tour

Top 8 Borghese Gallery Guided Tours 2022

We’ve put together everything you need to know about choosing the right guided tour on your visit to the Borghese Gallery.

Terrazza del Pincio

LATE AFTERNOON 3 PM || RECOMMENDED DURATION: 1 HOUR
Why It's Made Our List

  • A panoramic terrace located at the top of the Pincian Hill, the Terrazza del Pincio offers breathtaking views of Rome's skyline and landmarks
  • Connected to Villa Borghese park, providing opportunities for leisurely walks, it's peaceful place ideal for picnics and to enjoy a sunset.

Trevi Fountain

EVENING 5:30 PM || RECOMMENDED DURATION: 1 HOUR
Why It's Made Our List

  • One of Rome's most famous and enchanting fountains, the Trevi Fountain is a magnificent Baroque masterpiece with intricate sculptures and details.
  • Aside from the fountain's central location & it's beauty, the myth that tossing a coin into the fountain ensures a return to Rome, draws quite a crowd!

🔥 Hot Local Tip 🔥

We recommend visiting early in the morning (preferably at sunrise) for a crowd free experience!

Weekend in Rome
Rome Trip Planner Guide

The Ultimate Rome Trip Planner

If you are planning a trip to Rome soon, then this Rome trip planner is everything you need to know from when to visit and what to do in the city.
Rome in 3 Days - Itinerary