Rome in One Day: Two Itineraries Crafted for Passionate Explorers

'Rome in one day' – the notion smacks of hubris, yet here we are, armed with a no-nonsense guide that cuts through the tourist fluff to deliver Rome's raw, unfiltered majesty. Brace yourself for a whirlwind from sunrise to sunset ride through millennia of history, art, and the kind of cultural richness that turns skeptics into believers.

Rome in one Day: Guided Tours vs. Self-Guided Exploration

In this article, we wanted to give you as many options as possible for your time in Rome. For starters, right below this paragraph, we have a full-day guided tour option for you to choose from if you don't want to do Rome in a day on your own.

However, if an all-day guided tour isn't your thing, then we have two types of Roman tours: a "Classical" which features the biggest must-see Roman hits like the Colosseum, and we also put together a second option that we called the "Laid Back" because it starts off with a self-guided stroll, something that's definitely for the more adventurous, let's just wing it crowd, but still maintains an itinerary structure.

And finally, we put together this handy-dandy PDF of the best things to do in Rome for you to print out for free just below; that is, if you're feeling inclined to reference some of the best places to see and things to do in Rome.

OPTION 1: "Classic" Rome in One Day Itinerary

A) Visit the Roman Colosseum

You have to absolutely start your day in Rome at the Colosseum. It's a must see location since it's the ultimate representation of historical drama and power.

The Colosseum was built at the convergence of the Palatine Hill, the Celian Hill, and the Oppian Hill. Rabirio was the main architect who planned and erected it. Work started during Vespasian's reign in 72 AD, and it was dedicated by his son Titus Flavius in 80 AD.

When entertainment was in full swing over 2000 years ago at the Colosseum, it was feasible to satisfy every need for amusement and viewing with this opulent monument. Think Sunday Night Football, but instead of steel, the Colosseum was constructed out of brick, with Tiburtina stone covering every exposed surface. And part of the stairs were made of marble - not too shabby. I can only imagine vendors selling wine and bread instead of beer and hotdogs.

As far as size goes, this structure at its full glory had a main axis of 187 meters and a minor axis measuring 155 meters. That translates to a monument that's the biggest known amphitheater of its kind with a total height of roughly 50 meters. And, get this, that American football analogy holds weight because its capacity allowed it to hold over 90,000 crazy Roman fans.

3 Colosseum Guided Tour Options:

You could just wing it and decide to go to the Colosseum without any tickets. But don't. You're definitely gonna want to book ahead and get everything sorted out before you get to Rome. We highly suggest you enhance your overall experience at the Colosseum by hooking up with one of the following guided tousr with some major perks. Check them out!

🏛️ Skip-the-Line Tour to Colosseum: Get a straight-forward look into the past by going on a guided tour with a local expert.

🇮🇹 Colosseum, Palatine Hill and Roman Forum Guided Tour: In this tour you head to ancient Rome's core and the immense Colosseum, historic Palatine Hill, and vibrant Roman Forum, all brought to life by a guide versed in their deepest mysteries.

🎟️ Colosseum and Roman Forum Ticket with Multimedia Video: With a little video tossed in for context, you'll be escorted to see the must-see attractions in Rome, such as the Colosseum, Palatine Hill, and Roman Forum.

B) Eat at Fuorinorma

Okay, if you didn't grab breakfast in your hotel, and you found out that a traditional (American) breakfast isn't a thing in Italy, you're probably hungry. Good. Because you came to Italy to eat some of the best food in the world. Right? So we recommend straight-shooting to Fuorinorma which serves excellent paninis and sandwiches, has very polite service, and every dish—especially the charcuterie board—is a tasty, fresh must-try for foodies.

If Fuorinorma isn't doing it for you, may we also recommend you check out some of these other places to eat in Rome:

Luxurious food and excellent coffee can be found at Bono Bottega Nostrana in San Pietro, which combines Mediterranean and Italian cuisine with a sweet hint of free limoncello.

With its superb porchetta and flawless service from the wait staff, Bono Bottega Nostrana - Piazza di Spagna, a sister in taste in the famous plaza, wins hearts with its traditional Italian cuisine.

Crispy pizza, delectable croquettes, and smart meal bargains are the hallmarks of Pinsitaly Trevi, a quick Italian fast food restaurant.

There's a wide variety of paninis available at The Loft, an Italian take on the brewpub scene; the chicken salad and turkey avocado stand out.

Pizza connoisseurs' paradise, Sesamo Trastevere, makes a splash with its vegan pizza—a masterful creation from the chef that appeals to a wide range of palates.

3 Roman Food Tours & Classes

And since we're on the subject of Italian/Roman food, we would be remiss not to mention some very popular food tours and classes in the city. Check these out too, if you decide to extend your one day stay in Rome or decide to head back here later - we know many people that do!

🍷 Rome: Gastronomic Adventure with Endless Cuisine and Barolo Wine: In this tour you'll be on a true foodie quest in Roman neighborhoods and feasting on endless local delights and fine wine.

🍝 Rome: Sip and Savor Trastevere on a Food Tour with Free-Flow Fine Wine: Experience Rome's essence with a sunset wine and cuisine tour in Trastevere, showcasing the city's finest indulgences.

🍽 Rome: Epicurean Food Journey: Take a Trastevere gourmet food tour by savoring some age-old recipes and guided by a local food connoisseur.

C) Make Your Way to the Trevi Fountain

After you eat what the Italians call "pranzo", you'll want to head towards the Trevi Fountain, which is another must visit landmark in the Eternal City.

The Trevi Fountain is without a doubt one of the most breathtaking locations in Rome—a historical site, a movie set, and a major tourist destination. Admired and renowned globally for its grandeur and elegance, this magnificent fountain in Rome has a long history connected to the Vergine Aqueduct, which was constructed by Marco Vispanio Agrippa in 19 BC and is the only one of the eleven ancient Roman aqueducts still in use today.

You may wonder, "Why is it called the Trevi Fountain?" The Acqua Vergine Terminal Exhibition, which was constructed in its current form by Giuseppe Pannini after initially being designed by Nicola Salvi, takes its name from the toponymy of the era. Since the fountain was situated in the "dello Trejo" area, or close to the "Trivio," the intersection of three roads that corresponds to the present-day Piazza dei Crociferi. Hence, Tre (three) vi (roads).

2 Trevi Fountain Guided Tour Options:

⛲ Rome: Discover the Secrets of the Trevi Fountain on an Underground Tour: Dive deep (literally) into the Trevi Fountain's lore and underground mysteries on a guided exploration of this Roman icon.

📸 Rome: Exclusive Photography Session at the Trevi Fountain: Don't bother someone else on their vacation to take your photos. Get your Trevi Fountain moments immortalized by a pro photographer, ensuring a smooth experience and stunning, edited keepsakes.

D) Go to the Roman Forum

After you traditionally tossed a few coins in the Trevi Fountain and snapped some photos, your next stop on your Rome in one day itinerary is to head on over and take yet another historical deep-dive into the Roman Forum.

In Roman culture, the forum served as the official gathering place for all Republic and later Empire citizens. People went there to take part in, or just lend support to, the political, administrative, and economic matters that affected their community.

Rome's was the most significant and grandiose, since it served as the hub of the then-known globe. The Roman Forum has been in continuous use for more than a millennium, during which time it has seen historical events that shaped the world and been embellished with structures of extraordinary beauty that you can still view today.

2 Roman Forum Guided Tours

🇮🇹 Rome: Entry Pass and Audio Tour for the Roman Forum & Palatine Hill: Score a ticket to ancient Rome's heart - the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill - and unlock their stories with twin audio tours on your phone.

🇮🇹 Priority Admission Tour for Palatine Hill and the Roman Forum: Join a pro guide for a one-hour deep dive into Palatine Hill and the Roman Forum, unearthing their pivotal roles in Rome's archaeological saga.

E) Dine at Da Enzo Al 29

And finally - you've done well my friends, and have probably worked up an appetite, so we recommend you dine at Da Enzo Al 29, a Roman eatery that serves a variety of Italian options including traditional Roman dishes. Buon Appetito!

But, if you're looking for more restaurant options in Rome, then check out some of these places to eat:

ADESSO Vineria-Bistrot is a super cozy spot serving Italian and Mediterranean cuisine that's well-liked for its unique crostini and laid-back atmosphere.

For foodies looking for real Roman sensations, Arrosticinando is a paradise where convivial surroundings and Italian, BBQ (Italians love BBQ!) collide.

A totally amazing culinary treasure, 'DOC' Cruderia EnoBistrot, is well-known by the locals for its fluffy focaccia, which has garnered positive feedback from customers all over the world.

Pizza lovers and Italians alike will find plenty to enjoy at Sesamo Trastevere, notably their well prepared vegan pizza.

Famous for its Roman essence and first-rate service, Ad Hoc Ristorante in Circo Massimo blends Italian and Mediterranean flavors

OPTION 2: Your "Laid Back" Rome in one day Itinerary

A) Explore Trastevere

In this slightly more immersive, or "chill" Rome in one day itinerary, we recommended heading to Trastevere and blend in like a local by strolling the narrow streets and soaking up all that Roman energy.

Not a single traveler on the planet has not seen or heard about Trastevere. As the Duomo is to Milan, Trastevere is to Rome, and the Eiffel Tower is to Paris—you get the idea!

It is without a doubt the everlasting city's genuine heart and the emblem of the capital. Feel the most genuine Rome-ness among its charming cobblestone lanes, clothing hanging in the windows, well-known structures, little businesses, and cascades of ivy around the house walls. You can get a true sense of its history, when other socioeconomic groups lived there, along with a thriving Jewish population and fishermen.

To this day, it is still one of the most atmospheric districts in all of Rome, particularly early in the morning when locals are the only ones strolling through its lanes.

Nevertheless, the Trastevere district comes alive at night, when travelers swarm the area in search of a really memorable carbonara dish. The streets are packed with people strolling around the outdoor tables of the cafés and pubs, which are open almost year-round.

2 Trastevere Guided Tour Options:

As mentioned earlier, you could have a go at Trastevere solo, but we recommend you at least have a glance at some of these guided tours:

✡ Explore Trastevere and the Jewish Ghetto with a Street Food and Walking Tour: Uncover the pulse of two vibrant districts in a friendly 2.5-hour street food odyssey, with sweet deals for the under-18 crowd and groups.

🚶‍♂️Explore Medieval Trastevere with a Self-Guided Audio Tour: Navigate Trastevere's medieval-meets-modern maze with a self-guided audio tour, where GPS magic enhances every step.

B) Eat at Piperno

For lunch, hit Piperno. No nonsense, just killer traditional Italian grub. Taste Rome in every bite. Or if Piperno isn't doing it for you, check some of these other restaurants out.

Bono Bottega Nostrana - San Pietro: Where Italian zest meets Mediterranean spirit, topped with a limoncello cherry on top.

Pinsitaly Trevi: The fast track to authentic Italian pizza paradise.

The Loft: Panini perfection in a setting as crisp as their bread.

C) Visit Piazza Navona

Post-lunch, make tracks to Piazza Navona. It's a showstopper square with mind-blowing fountains and architecture. Soak it in, snap some shots.

The floor of the ancient "Stadium of Domitian," also known as the "Circus Agonalis," is where Piazza Navona, Rome's most exquisite baroque square, is located. Its elongated rectangular arena shape, with one of its smaller sides (the northern one) curved, has been perfectly preserved, and the surrounding buildings stand where the auditorium's steps once were. Domitian may have constructed the Stadium earlier than 86 AD to accommodate Greek sporting events, which the Romans despised since they saw them as immoral.

Piazza Navona Guided Tour Option

💁🏻‍♂️ Exclusive Rome Exploration: Private Tour of Navona Square with Underground Access: Unveil Piazza Navona's secret underworld with an expert guide leading you through its concealed ancient ruins.

D) Check Out the Pantheon

Cap off your Rome in one day tour at the Pantheon. It's a history-packed knockout with architecture that'll floor you. Dig into its story, get wowed.

Agrippa constructed the Pantheon, a sun temple, in 27 BC at the request of Emperor Augustus. As a result, when light and heat from the star shine through the dome's huge eye, visitors experience its effects. On June 21, the summer solstice, around noon, you may see a phenomena that relates to the astrological calendar. That's when the summer's sunshine beam enters the access portal at its center after passing through the dome's huge eye.

The temple embodies cosmic symbolism, which refers to the stability and equilibrium that the ancient architects found important. This is provided by the lines' harmony and the masses' well calculated geometries. Since the dome is the sole place where light enters the structure, its lighting function is crucial. A zenith point, a direct link between the gods and the material world (this is not the same in Christian religions, where the priest acts as an intermediary between God and the material world; in this instance, light enters through the east-facing apse and the west-facing rose window).

It is no surprise that the rotating light beam inside gives birth to numerological theories that this structure is an ancient astrological observatory—a moon mechanism honoring all the gods. Pretty cool, right?

Pantheon Guided Tour Option

🏛 Explore Rome's Pantheon with a Small Group and Admission Included: Check out the Pantheon's ancient glory on a guided tour, unraveling mythology and architectural wonders with your expert guide.

E) Dine at Roscioli

Dinner? You deserve it after today. Go to Roscioli. No frills, just top-notch Italian eats and a killer wine list.

Places to Stay in Rome

If you're still haven't decided on a place to stay in Rome, Booking is a great place to look. And to help you, we listed nine places that we would recommend for your stay in Rome.

Maalot Roma: A Trevi treasure offering a blend of comfort and class, complete with a welcoming vibe.

Umiltà 36: Central Rome's gem, merging top-notch service with a prime location near Piazza Venezia.

Singer Palace Hotel: A shopper's haven on Via del Corso, crowned with a rooftop restaurant near Trevi Fountain.

The Fifteen Keys Hotel: Monti's boutique retreat, a stroll from Cavour Metro, boasting a serene garden and terrace.

Hotel Santa Maria: Trastevere's heart, oozing authenticity on the Tiber's edge.

Nerva Boutique Hotel: A snug sanctuary in Rome's historical core, wrapped in elegant design.

Dante's in Vaticano 2: Vatican-adjacent, known for its spotless charm and dreamy beds.

Babuino Palace & Suites: A hop from the Spanish Steps, overlooking Via del Babuino with the perk of free WiFi.

Guest House Al Conservatorio Navona: A stone's throw from Campo de' Fiori, offering Netflix-equipped modernity amidst ancient Rome.

Still hungry for Italian adventures after the Roman ride?

Wait till you see what else we've got cooking – a whole array of Italian escapades guaranteed to blow your mind. Get ready, Buon Viaggio!

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