One Day in Rome Itinerary: 4 Best Options + Maps [From a Local!]

Planning your perfect one day in Rome itinerary? Whether you’re here for a quick stop or trying to squeeze the most out of 24 hours, this guide will help you see the best of the Eternal City—with tips and insights from a Roman who knows it inside out.

I grew up in Rome and call it home, so this itinerary isn’t just about checking off landmarks; it’s packed with local insight, including countless restaurant recommendations, so you’ll know where to eat in areas crowded with tourist traps.

I’ve put together four different itineraries (with maps) that lay out efficient sightseeing routes and will help you decide which attractions to prioritize. So, without further ado, here are some very thoughtfully crafted options for what to do in Rome in one day.

You might also be interested in:
🏡 Where to Stay in Rome: Best Areas + Hotels
🏠 12 Best Rome Hotels with Colosseum Views
⛲️ 2 Days in Rome: The Ultimate Itinerary

Disclosure: This article contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase after clicking one of these links, I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. You can learn more about this in my disclosure policy.

🌟 1 Day in Rome Itinerary: Top Tips

• 🎟️ Skip the long lines at the Vatican with the Vatican Fast-Entry Ticket
• 🎟️ Skip the long lines at the Colosseum with the Colosseum Fast-Entry Ticket
• ✈️ Book a cheap Shuttle Bus Transfer to get between the airport and the city
• 🍝 Learn top secrets at a fun pasta-making class with a local chef!

🤔 Can You Do Rome in a Day?

The short answer is: it depends on how you want to see Rome.

If you want to check out every major attraction in Rome, then a day’s time will only allow you to visit them from the outside, without going in and properly exploring each of them. So the key to maximizing your 24 hours in Rome is to decide which places to prioritize.

The Vatican and the Colosseum are the two most important attractions in Rome, and with ticketed entrance, they each take at least 3 hours to properly explore. (Any ticket to the Colosseum includes entry to the Roman Forum & Palatine Hill as well—that’s why it takes so long to visit.)

That means if you want to enter either the Vatican or the Colosseum, you will need to skip some other important attractions.

I’ve created 4 itinerary options based on whether you’ll want to see the Vatican and the Colosseum only from the outside or with entry. You can use that information to decide how you want to see Rome, and whether a day would be enough for you.

Read more: The Perfect 2 Days in Rome Itinerary

⛲ One Day in Rome Itinerary: 4 Options

🌟 Important: I highly recommend reading Itineraries 1 and 2 before moving on to Itineraries 3 and 4. The first two include detailed information on how to visit each attraction, whereas 3 and 4 skip those details to avoid repetition.

Itinerary 1: Entry to both the Vatican and the Colosseum

Vatican Museums (entry), St. Peter’s Basilica (entry), Colosseum (entry), Roman Forum + Palatine Hill (entry), guided night tour of Rome’s historic center

Itinerary 2: All of Rome’s highlights – with NO entry to the Vatican nor the Colosseum

Spanish Steps, Trevi Fountain, Pantheon (entry), Vittoriano (entry), Roman Forum (from the outside), Colosseum (from the outside), St. Peter’s Basilica (from the outside), Castel Sant’Angelo, Ponte Umberto I, Piazza Navona, Campo de’ Fiori

Itinerary 3: Entry to the Vatican but not the Colosseum

Vatican Museums (entry), St. Peter’s Basilica (entry), Castel Sant’Angelo, Ponte Umberto I, Piazza Navona, Pantheon (entry), Trevi Fountain, Vittoriano (entry), Colosseum (from the outside)

Itinerary 4: Entry to the Colosseum but not the Vatican

Colosseum (entry), Roman Forum + Palatine Hill (entry), Vittoriano (entry), Pantheon (entry), Trevi Fountain, Spanish Steps, St. Peter’s Basilica (from the outside), Castel Sant’Angelo

Related: Where to Stay in Rome: The Best Areas + Hotels

📝 Itinerary 1: Entry to Both Vatican & Colosseum

1. Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel

Suggested visit time: 8:30 am / Visit duration: 2.5-3 hours

Due to time constraints, I highly recommend booking a skip-the-line Vatican tour; it can save you hours of waiting in line.

As many of you know, the Vatican is the heart of the Roman Catholic Church and the official residence of the Pope. The main attractions here are St. Peter’s Basilica and the Vatican Museums, known for housing Michelangelo’s famous Sistine Chapel.

If you’re passionate about art history, particularly Renaissance and Baroque art, then do not miss a thorough visit to the Vatican Museums and St. Peter’s Basilica.

Even with just a day in the Eternal City, you should have enough time to thoroughly tour the Vatican in the morning and the Colosseum in the afternoon. But that’s only possible if you start early and book a skip-the-line guided tour.

Book your skip-the-line Vatican tour

Inside the Vatican Museums, you’ll find many extraordinary masterpieces, including the magnificent Raphael Rooms, the stunning Gallery of Maps, and the iconic Sistine Chapel, featuring jaw-dropping frescoes that Michelangelo spent four years painting.

If you’re a big early bird and want the unique chance of seeing the museum when it isn’t open to the public yet, I recommend joining an exclusive early entrance small group Vatican tour, which would give you 45 mins to an hour to explore before the crowds rush in.

If you’d rather visit the Vatican on your own, I highly suggest booking a skip-the-line ticket to make time for going inside the Colosseum later in the day. However, keep in mind that this ticket will not allow you to skip the line at St. Peter’s Basilica, which can take hours. That’s why the guided tour is your best option.

🌟 Top Tips for Visiting the Vatican

• Avoid visiting on Mondays or over the weekend as that’s when the Vatican Museums are the most crowded. All the other museums in Rome are closed on Mondays, making the Vatican especially popular on that day.
• The Vatican Museums are free every last Sunday of each month, but be sure to arrive early in the morning if you don’t want to stand in line for hours. (Check official real-time updates as this offering is sometimes suspended.)
• Be sure to dress appropriately — both men and women are required to have their shoulders, necklines, and thighs covered.

Book your skip-the-line Vatican tour

⏰ Opening hours: See here for live info 
🎫 Entrance fees: Adults - €25 | Youth & students under 18 - €8 
🧔🏻 Recommended guided tour: Vatican Early Entrance Small Group Tour (⭐️ 4.8/5)

2. St. Peter’s Basilica & Dome

2 min walk from Sistine Chapel through a restricted passageway (only with guided tours)
Or 20 min walk from the Vatican Museums + wait in a long line (without a guided tour)
Suggested visit time: 11:30 am / Visit duration: 1.5-2 hours

After visiting the Vatican Museums, head over to St. Peter’s Basilica, the largest church on earth. This famous structure is home to Michelangelo’s famous ‘Pietà’ sculpture, the Papal Crypts (where many popes are buried), and endless jaw-dropping frescoes.

It goes without saying that St. Peter’s Basilica is also the holiest and most important pilgrimage site of the Catholic Church. Attending Holy Mass here is a popular activity.

On weekdays, the Mass is held at 8:30 am, 9 am, 10 am, 11 am, 12 pm, and 5 pm. On weekends and public holidays, it takes place at 9 am, 10:30 am, 11:15 am, 12:15 pm, 1 pm, 4 pm, 4:45 pm, and 5:30 pm.

🔥 Pro Tip: If you visit the Vatican with a guided tour, you can get to St. Peter’s Basilica from the Sistine Chapel in just 2 minutes, using a passageway reserved for group tours. If you visit on your own, you’ll have to exit the Vatican Museums, walk for 20 mins to St. Peter’s Basilica, and then stand in a long line (that can take hours) to enter.

Don’t leave St. Peter’s Basilica without ascending to the top of its dome (cupola). I recommend doing this climb before exploring the basilica (and as early as you can) to avoid the midday heat and the long lines that will form later in the day.

To reach the top of the dome, you can either climb all 551 steps on foot, or take an elevator to the terrace and climb the remaining 320 steps on foot. The panoramic view of Rome from the dome is absolutely spectacular and well worth the climb!

⏰ Basilica & Dome opening hours: See here for live info 
🎫 Basilica entrance fees: Free
🎫 Dome entrance fees: Elevator + 320 steps: €10 | Walk all 551 steps: €8
🧔🏻 Recommended guided tour: Vatican Early Entrance Small Group Tour (⭐️ 4.8/5)

3. Lunch at Bonci Pizzarium

15 min walk from St. Peter’s Basilica
Recommended duration: 1:30 pm – 2:30 pm

Not far of a walk from St. Peter’s Basilica is Bonci Pizzarium, an incredible place to taste authentic Roman pizza.

If you’ve never had traditional Roman pizza, you’d be amazed that it’s pretty different from the pizza you might be used to having. In Rome, we eat pizza al taglio, which is essentially pizza served in rectangular slices, with a wide variety of toppings.

These toppings range from artichokes, potatoes, zucchini, and prosciutto to shrimp and eggplant. If you’re lactose intolerant, the good news is there’s plenty of pizza al taglio without any cheese at all!

4. Take the Metro to the Colosseum

Predicted journey duration: 20 mins (2:30 pm – 2:50 pm)

After lunch, it’s time to make your way to the iconic Colosseum.

If you had lunch at Bonci Pizzarium (the place I suggested above), then you’ll be only a 3-minute walk from the Cipro Metro Station. You can easily take the Metro (subway) from there to the Colosseum; the journey should take around 20 mins.

🚇 Directions: From Cipro, take Linea A (line A – the red line) going in the direction of Anagnina, and get off at Termini. At Termini, switch over to Linea B (line B – the blue line) going in the direction of Laurentina, and get off at Colosseo.

5. Colosseum & Roman Forum

4 min walk from Colosseo Metro Station
Suggested visit time: 3 pm / Visit duration: 3 hours

With only a day in Rome, you don’t have time to wait in entry lines (which can take hours at the Colosseum). Be sure to book a skip-the-line Colosseum tour.

With almost 2,000 years of history, the iconic Colosseum offers a fascinating insight into daily life in the ancient Roman Empire. Constructed between 72 AD and 80 AD, this amphitheater served as the main entertainment hub of the Roman Empire and could hold more than 50,000 spectators.

The famous gladiator games took place here for over 500 years. Since the 6th century, the Colosseum has suffered damage from earthquakes, lootings, and WWII bombings. That’s why only part of it still stands today.

Today, the Colosseum is one of the most visited places in Europe, so if you don’t visit with a skip-the-line guided tour or a skip-the-line entry ticket, you can spend hours waiting in line with a regular ticket. With one day in Rome, you don’t have time for that.

Book your skip-the-line Colosseum tour

Any ticket to the Colosseum automatically includes same-day entry to the magnificent nearby sites of the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill.

The Roman Forum was the heart of political, social, and religious life during the Roman Empire. Today, you can see what’s left of it from the many ruins of temples and shrines that sit there—remnants of the most important monuments from Ancient Rome.

Next to the Roman Forum lies the monumental Palatine Hill, often regarded as the birthplace of Rome. It boasts more ancient temples and arches, but the best thing about it is the spectacular panoramic view of the Colosseum you can get from there.

⏰ Opening hours: See here for live info
🎫 Entrance fees: (Combined Colosseum + Roman Forum + Palatine Hill ticket) Regular - €18 | EU citizens aged 18-25 - €4
🏟 Skip-the-line entry ticket: Buy it here
🧔🏻 Recommended guided tour: Colosseum, Roman Forum & Palatine Hill Tour (⭐️ 4.7/5)

Related: 12 Stunning Rome Hotels with Colosseum Views

6. Aperitivo + Dinner Near the Colosseum

In Italy, it is typical to enjoy an aperitivo (a pre-meal drink intended to stimulate the appetite) before dinner. This tradition usually takes place between 6 pm and 8 pm, and your drink comes paired with little snacks (so you won’t starve).

Near the Colosseum and Roman Forum, I suggest doing aperitivo at Spritzeria Monti Rooftop, which offers lovely city views. If you’re happy to walk further, there are also a lot more options near Pantheon, Piazza Navona, and Piazza del Popolo.

For dinner near the Colosseum, I recommend La Nuova Piazzetta (try their pesto with clams!) or Iari The Vino (try their pistacchio crusted lamb chops).

7. Night Tour of Rome in the Historic Center

After dinner, I suggest taking one of the many guided night tours of Rome that allow you to explore the city in unique ways. This also gives you a chance to see the other attractions in the city that you didn’t get to see during the day.

I recommend choosing from one of these night tours, depending on your interests:

• Evening city highlights walking tour – see Rome’s most important attractions beautifully lit up at night.
• Trastevere food & wine walking tour – it includes a full dinner in the best foodie neighborhood in Rome.
• Evening photography tour – learn the best photo techniques from a local award-winning professional photographer.
• Forbidden history tour & pub crawl – make new friends while learning about Rome’s fascinating history and tasting Italian drinks.

Read more: 12 Best Night Tours of Rome

🗺️ Map of Itinerary 1

Here’s a map of this Rome 1 day itinerary, which focuses mainly on the Vatican and the Colosseum. You can click here to see it in full on Google Maps.

📝 Itinerary 2: All the Highlights of Rome

1. Spanish Steps (Piazza di Spagna)

Suggested visit time: 9 am / Visit duration: 30-45 mins

Start your day at the picturesque Spanish Steps, a majestic 135-step Baroque staircase connecting Piazza di Spagna (the square it is located in) with the Trinità dei Monti church on the Pincian Hill.

It’s definitely worth climbing up the Spanish Steps for a unique view of Rome’s historic center. Plus, the Trinità dei Monti church up top is also worth a visit. Afterward, walk back down the steps to continue to your next stop.

At the bottom of the steps, you’ll see the Fountain of the Leaky Boat. This fountain was constructed in memory of a severe flood of the River Tiber in 1598, which stranded a boat at this very square.

💸 Please note: As of 2019, it is no longer allowed to sit on the Spanish Steps (in order to preserve this UNESCO Heritage Site). You can also get fined up to €400 if you’ve dirtied or damaged the steps in any way.

2. Trevi Fountain (Fontana di Trevi)

10 min walk from Spanish Steps
Suggested visit time: 10 am / Visit duration: 20-30 mins

Not far from the Spanish Steps lies the legendary Trevi Fountain. Completed in 1762, this fountain is the largest Baroque fountain in Rome and is famous for its very detailed and impressive design, which features statues of Neptune and Oceanus.

A famous tradition is to throw a coin into the water with your right hand over your left shoulder. Legend has it that tossing one coin means you’ll return to Rome, two coins means you’ll return and fall in love, and three coins means you’ll get married in Rome.

Whether or not you believe in this myth, the coins go towards a great cause. Roughly one million euros are collected from the fountain every year to be donated to local charities.

🌅 Insider Tip: The Trevi Fountain is always flooded with tourists during the day. Come here early in the morning, at sunrise, for a completely different atmosphere. You’ll be able to take in this iconic place with barely anyone else around.

3. Pantheon

8 min walk from Trevi Fountain
Suggested visit time: 10:45 am / Visit duration: 45 mins – 1 hour

I highly recommend booking a skip-the-line ticket for this very popular spot.

Your next stop on this one day tour of Rome is the timeless Pantheon, one of the most ancient structures in town. This former temple-turned-church displays incredible architecture and is famous for its unique dome, which opens up to the sky.

Completed between 126 – 128 AD, the Pantheon was a Roman temple dedicated to the gods of pagan Rome. It was converted to a Christian church in 609 AD, and today, it continues to function as one, with Catholic Mass held regularly.

Upon visiting, Michelangelo famously said, “it was the design of angels, not of man”. To grasp what he meant, take a walk inside the Pantheon and admire the view from underneath its oculus — the central part of the dome that’s capped only by the sky.

Book your skip-the-line entry ticket

⏰ Opening hours: 9 am - 7 pm daily (last entry at 6:30 pm)
🎫 Entrance fees: €5 for a skip-the-line entry ticket 
🧔🏻 Recommended guided tour: Pantheon Guided Tour (⭐️ 4.9/5)

4. Vittoriano (Piazza Venezia)

15 min walk from Pantheon
Suggested visit time: 12 pm / Visit duration: 1 hour

The captivating Vittoriano (AKA Altar of the Fatherland) inside Piazza Venezia was built in 1911 as a tribute to Vittorio Emanuele II, the first king of Italy. It features majestic rows of Corinthian columns and countless stairs made from exquisite white marble.

⛲️ Top Tip: The best way to explore Vittoriano is to climb up to its panoramic terrace. Even with just a day in Rome, you’ll have time to do this as it shouldn’t take you more than 1 hour. Just be sure to book a skip-the-line ticket to avoid losing time.

With your ticket, you’d climb up the first half of this structure via stairs, and the last bit via a glass elevator. Up top, enjoy an incredible close-up view of Rome’s historic center, including the Colosseum.

⏰ Opening hours: 9:30 am – 7:30 pm daily (last admission at 6:45 pm)
🎫 Panoramic terrace entrance fees: Adults - €17 | Under 18 years old - free 
🌐 Best online ticket: Altar of the Fatherland Elevator Ticket

5. Roman Forum (from Via dei Fori Imperiali)

5 min walk from Vittoriano
Suggested visit time: 1 pm / Visit duration: 20-30 mins

After the Vittoriano, it’s time to see the Roman Forum — a large complex of ancient ruins of what used to be the political and social heart of the Roman Empire. There are countless ruins of temples and shrines here, each looking more majestic than the next.

Because you won’t have time to go inside and properly explore the Roman Forum, you will be seeing it from the outside, by walking along the Via dei Fori Imperiali path. This is a wide pedestrian walkway that directly connects Piazza Venezia (your previous stop) to the Colosseum. You won’t miss it if you walk from the Vittoriano towards the Colosseum.

All along this walkway, you’ll find viewing platforms that allow you to see many of the ancient Roman Forum ruins. There are also information boards that provide useful historical context. Once you’ve walked the entire path, you’ll reach the Colosseum.

6. Lunch Near the Roman Forum/Colosseum

Recommended duration: 1:30 pm – 2:30 pm

There are way too many tourist traps around the Roman Forum/Colosseum, so here are some authentic restaurants in the area. I recommend calling them to book your spot in advance — pretty much all restaurants in the city center have English-speaking staff.

• Taverna Romana — A meal at this restaurant tastes homemade; it’s the perfect place to indulge in traditional Roman dishes, such as l’amatriciana.
• Pizza della Madonna dei Monti — This hidden pizzeria is the perfect spot for a quick lunch. Aside from authentic pizza, they also serve traditional Roman snacks such as supplì.
• La Nuova Piazzetta — Enjoy some of the best carbonara and amatriciana among very friendly staff. They also serve delicious homemade desserts.

7. Colosseum (from the Outside)

20 min walk from Vittoriano via Via dei Fori Imperiali
Suggested visit time: 2:45 pm / Visit duration: 20-30 mins

We’ve covered visiting the Colosseum in detail in the first itinerary of this guide, but this second itinerary involves seeing it only from the outside without going in, since you wouldn’t have time for that.

Once you reach the Colosseum from Via dei Fori Imperiali, simply take a walk around this majestic structure to soak it up from every angle. The immediate surroundings of the Colosseum are very walkable and reserved for pedestrians only.

It shouldn’t take you more than 10 minutes to circle around the entire Colosseum, but do add more time for picture stops.

8. Take the Metro to St. Peter’s Basilica

Predicted journey duration: 30 mins (3:15 pm – 3:45 pm)

Now it’s time to make your way to Vatican City, where you’ll find the iconic St. Peter’s Basilica. The easiest way to get there from the Colosseum is to take the Metro (subway) for about 15 minutes, and then walk for another 15 minutes.

🚇 Directions: From the Colosseum area, walk to the Colosseo Metro Station.

From there, take Linea B (the blue line) going in the direction of Rebibbia, and get off at Termini. At Termini, switch over to Linea A (the red line) going in the direction of Battistini, and get off at Ottaviano. The entire subway journey is around 15 mins.

Then, walk for around 15 mins from Ottaviano Metro Station to St. Peter’s Basilica.

9. St. Peter’s Basilica (from the Outside)

15 min walk from Ottaviano Metro Station
Suggested visit time: 3:45 pm / Visit duration: 20-30 mins

On this itinerary, you’ll only have time to see St. Peter’s Basilica from the outside. But don’t worry—while going in is definitely worth it, this magnificent structure is jaw-dropping even just from the exterior.

The basilica sits inside the spacious St. Peter’s Square (Piazza San Pietro), which is actually one of the world’s largest squares. Aside from St. Peter’s Basilica, this square also houses the Vatican Obelisk, the only ancient obelisk in Rome that has never fallen.

Take a walk around this square to admire the amazing architecture of the basilica, obelisk, fountains, and various statues that adorn the colonnades that surround the square. See itinerary 1 for more info on exploring this place in detail.

10. Castel Sant’Angelo

12 min walk from St. Peter’s Basilica
Suggested visit time: 4:30 pm / Visit duration: 10-15 mins

After St. Peter’s Basilica, take a stroll along the famous Via della Conciliazione path to Castel Sant’Angelo, a stunning fortress that dates back to AD 139. In the course of its history, Castel Sant’Angelo has protected the Pope during various sieges.

While you won’t have time to go inside this fortress, I suggest enjoying the view of this spectacular monument from Ponte Sant’Angelo — the big bridge right in front of it. You’ll find some elegant statues and plenty of cool angles for photos.

If you just love castles and really want to go inside this one, I suggest booking a skip-the-line ticket and skipping another place in this itinerary to make time for this. The terrace of this fortress does offer beautiful panoramic views of Rome.

11. Lungotevere & Ponte Umberto I

Start right under the Castel Sant’Angelo bridge
Suggested visit time: 4:45 pm / Visit duration: 20-30 mins

Castel Sant’Angelo is right next to the River Tiber, which is surrounded by several picturesque bridges. Descend the stairs from the bridge facing the fortress to reach Lungotevere, a charming waterfront promenade ideal for a leisurely stroll. 

Wander towards the bridge Ponte Vittorio Emanuele II for marvelous views of the Vatican dome and Castel Sant’Angelo reflecting in the water. I suggest sitting on the riverbank for a bit to take it all in.

Afterward, head back in the other direction to Ponte Umberto I, the one bridge you shouldn’t miss during your time in Rome. From this bridge, you’ll get a postcard-worthy view of St. Peter’s Basilica and the ancient buildings that surround it.

12. Piazza Navona

5 min walk from Ponte Umberto I
Suggested visit time: 5:15 pm / Visit duration: 20-30 mins

A very short walk from Ponte Umberto I is Piazza Navona, one of the prettiest squares in Rome. This piazza used to be a venue for festivals and sporting events in ancient Roman times. Today, it’s very lively thanks to street performers, painters, and musicians.

Take a wander around the many artists’ stalls displaying gorgeous paintings and sketches. If you enjoy getting your caricature drawn live, this is the square to be at.

At the center of Piazza Navona stands the impressive Fontana dei Quattro Fiumi, a fountain designed by Bernini in 1651. Grab a gelato at Cremì Gelateria Artigianale (right by the square) and enjoy it while admiring the amazing sculptural art all around you.

13. Campo de’ Fiori (Dinner or Evening Food Tour)

4 min walk from Piazza Navona
Suggested visit time: 5:45 pm / Visit duration: 2-3 hours

We’ve reached the final stop of this 1 day Rome itinerary—Campo de’ Fiori, a vibrant square that hosts farmers’ markets during the day, cafes and restaurants for aperitivo and dinner in the evenings, and pubs that make this square a go-to for Rome nightlife.

There are countless restaurants inside and around Campo de’ Fiori. For hearty and authentic Roman dishes, Giordi or Romoletto are amazing choices for aperitivo and dinner. I highly recommend booking a table in advance, especially during high season.

Alternatively, if you’re still full of energy and hungry to explore more, there’s no better way to end your day than with an exquisite street food tour, which starts right inside Campo de’ Fiori at around 6 pm.

On the tour, you’ll get five delicious tastings of traditional Roman delights such as supplì (deep-fried rice ball), cured meat, pizza, and gelato. You’ll also get to explore the ancient Jewish Quarter and learn about its unique fusion of Jewish and Italian culture.

If you’d like to taste more than just street food, then this award-winning food and wine walking tour might be a better option for you. It includes not just tastings but also a full dinner at one of the best restaurants in Rome. The meeting point is a 15-min walk from Campo de’ Fiori.

Book your guided food tour

🗺️ Map of Itinerary 2

Here’s a map of what to see in Rome in 1 day as laid out in this itinerary. You can click here to see it in full on Google Maps.

📝 Itinerary 3: Entry to Vatican but Not Colosseum

This itinerary prioritizes a full exploration of the Vatican, which would take up almost the entire first half of your day. I’ve selected the rest of the attractions based on their importance and how well they fit into a smooth and logical sightseeing route.

Note: Every place on this itinerary has been covered in depth in the previous two itineraries. Refer back to those sections for full details on how to visit each of these places.

Morning

• 8:30 – 11:30 am: Vatican Museums + St. Peter’s Basilica with a skip-the-line tour
• 11:30 – 11:45 am: Walk to Castel Sant’Angelo
• 11:45 am – 12:00 pm: See Castel Sant’Angelo from the bridge in front of it
• 12:00 – 12:45 pm: Take a walk around Lungotevere & Ponte Umberto I

Lunch

Have lunch near Piazza Navona (a 5-min walk from Ponte Umberto I). I recommend going a bit further from the square to avoid tourist traps. Saltimbocca Ristorante is a great option for authentic Roman cuisine.

Afternoon

• 2:30 – 3:00 pm: Wander around Piazza Navona
• 3:00 – 3:10 pm: Walk to the Pantheon
• 3:10 – 4:00 pm: Explore the Pantheon with a skip-the-line ticket
• 4:00 – 4:10 pm: Walk to the Trevi Fountain
• 4:10 – 4:40 pm: Visit and relax at the Trevi Fountain

Evening

• 4:40 – 5:00 pm: Walk to Vittoriano (AKA Altar of the Fatherland)
• 5:00 – 6:15 pm: Explore Vittoriano’s panoramic terrace with a skip-the-line ticket
• 6:15 – 6:35 pm: Walk to the Colosseum
• 6:35 pm – whenever: Explore the Colosseum from the outside
• Dinner near the Colosseum (I recommend La Nuova Piazzetta or Iari The Vino)

🗺️ Map of Itinerary 3

Here’s a map of things to see in Rome in one day, as laid out in this itinerary. You can click here to see it in full on Google Maps.

📝 Itinerary 4: Entry to Colosseum but Not Vatican

This itinerary prioritizes a full guided entry/tour of the Colosseum and Roman Forum, which would take up the entire first half of your day. I chose the rest of the attractions based on their importance and how well they fit into a smooth, logical route.

Note: Every place on this itinerary has been covered in depth in the first two itineraries of this guide. Refer back to those sections for full details on how to visit each of these places.

Morning

• 8:30 – 11:30 am: Colosseum + Roman Forum with a skip-the-line tour
• 11:30 – 11:50 am: Walk to Vittoriano (AKA Altar of the Fatherland)
• 11:50 am – 1:00 pm: Explore Vittoriano’s panoramic terrace with a skip-the-line ticket

Lunch

I suggest grabbing lunch somewhere in between Vittoriano and Pantheon (your next stop). I recommend Alice Pizza (a 10-min walk from Vittoriano) for some traditional Roman pizza al taglio – pizza served ‘by the slice’ with a variety of delicious toppings to choose from.

After lunch, walk over to the Pantheon (5 mins from Alice Pizza).

Afternoon

• 2:30 – 3:30 pm: Explore the Pantheon with a skip-the-line ticket
• 3:30 – 3:40 pm: Walk to the Trevi Fountain
• 3:40 – 4:10 pm: Visit and relax at the Trevi Fountain
• 4:10 – 4:20 pm: Walk to the Spanish Steps
• 4:20 – 5:00 pm: Climb up the Spanish Steps and visit Trinità dei Monti church up top

Evening

• 5:00 – 5:25 pm: Take the Metro (subway) from Spanish Steps to St. Peter’s Basilica
• 5:25 – 5:45 pm: Visit St. Peter’s Basilica from the outside (at St. Peter’s Square)
• 5:45 – 6:00 pm: Walk to Castel Sant’Angelo
• 6:00 pm – whenever: See Castel Sant’Angelo from the bridge in front of it
• Dinner near Castel Sant’Angelo (I recommend Borghiciana Pastificio Artigianale – an authentic experience in an area dominated by tourist traps.)

🚇 How to get from Spanish Steps to St. Peter’s Basilica: Walk to the Spagna Metro Station right by the Spanish Steps. From there, take Linea A (the red line) going in the direction of Battistini, and get off at Ottaviano (around a 5-min ride). Then, walk for around 15 mins from Ottaviano Metro Station to St. Peter’s Basilica.

🗺️ Map of Itinerary 4

Here’s a map of how to see Rome in a day as laid out in this itinerary. You can click here to see it in full on Google Maps.

🏡 Where to Stay in Rome for a Day

If you want to be near the best places to see in Rome in 1 day, I highly recommend staying in centro storico, the historic center of the city. You’d be within walking distance of almost all of Rome’s main attractions. Here are my top picks.

OVERALL TOP PICK: Otivm Hotel (⭐ 9.0)
This top-value hotel features a dreamy roof terrace that offers breathtaking views of the historic center. Guests can enjoy breakfast there with an epic view. Most attractions are within close walking distance, and the rooms are luxurious — yet priced very generously.

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TOP ROMANTIC HOTEL: Singer Palace (⭐ 9.5) This magnificent boutique hotel is only a 5-min walk to the iconic Trevi Fountain and is perfect for couples looking for a romantic getaway. Their rooftop restaurant is a magical place to enjoy a dreamy breakfast or dinner, and all the rooms feature gorgeous décor.

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TOP LUXURY HOTEL: Martis Palace (⭐ 9.4)
This stunning hotel next to Piazza Navona features an incredible roof terrace with a view. There is also an on-site bar, free WiFi throughout the property, and soundproofed rooms each with a flat-screen TV. In addition, guests can enjoy a discount at a nearby spa!

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TOP BUDGET HOTEL: Hotel Amalfi (⭐ 8.6)
This hotel is very close to the Termini train station and is a 15-min walk to the Colosseum. Each room features an AC, free WiFi, a flat-screen TV, and beautiful frescoed ceilings. There’s also an extensive breakfast with eggs, bacon, and fresh pastries.

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Read more: Where to Stay in Rome: The Best Areas + Hotels

☀️ The Best Time to Visit Rome

I personally recommend the shoulder season—from mid-March to early May and mid-September to early November—for mild weather and avoiding the peak season crowds. That said, here’s a quick rundown of the different tourist seasons in Rome so you can decide for yourself.

🌸 High season: Mid-May to early September is when Rome is at its busiest. Expect very long lines at attractions and high hotel prices. Avoid this season if you can’t stand large crowds or high heat. In fact, the weather is at its hottest during this time of year, with an average of 17°-32°C / 62°-90°F.

🍁 Shoulder season: From mid-March to early May and mid-September to early November, there’s a moderate level of crowds and mild temperatures (9°-22°C / 48°-71°F). The shoulder season is liked by many, though, so I definitely still suggest booking tickets for attractions in advance.

❄️ Low season: From mid-November to mid-December and mid-January to early March, you’ll see the least crowds in Rome (but because it’s Rome, it’s still quite busy regardless). Note that Christmas and New Year’s are exceptions and see a big increase in tourists. Temperatures average around 3°-13°C / 37°-55°F during this time of year.

✈️ How to Get to Rome

Rome has two airports: Fiumicino (FCO) and Ciampino (CIA).

Fiumicino—also known as Leonardo da Vinci International Airport—is the main international hub, offering direct flights to major cities across the globe. Ciampino is much smaller and primarily handles domestic and European routes.

Both airports have convenient connections to the city center via trains and buses, so simply choose the one that best suits your budget.

If you’re coming from another Italian city, consider taking a domestic Trenitalia train to Roma Termini, the city’s most central train station. You can check timetables and book tickets through Trenitalia or Omio.

Search for flights to Rome

🚗 Getting From Fiumicino Airport to Rome by Car / Taxi

The most convenient way to get from Fiumicino Airport to Rome is to book a private transfer directly to your hotel. The price is the same as taking a taxi, but you won’t need to wait in line for a taxi at the airport. The journey should take 40-50 mins depending on traffic.

🚕 Insider Tip: If you do prefer taking a taxi, always take an official white taxi from the taxi stand outside the terminal. Do not go with the drivers waiting inside the terminal. A taxi ride from Fiumicino to the center of Rome should cost you a fixed rate of €50.

Book a private transfer to your hotel

🚊 Getting From Fiumicino Airport to Rome by Bus/Train

If you’re looking for a more affordable way of getting to Rome, book a direct bus transfer from Fiumicino Airport to Roma Termini. The bus ticket costs around €6 and the journey takes 1 hour. You can then take the metro to your hotel from Roma Termini.

There’s also a bus that takes you from Fiumicino to Vatican City, if you’re staying in that area. This bus ticket costs around €7 and the journey takes around 50 minutes.

Trains will get you to Rome in around half the time that buses take. In just 30 mins, the Leonardo Express train takes you directly from Fiumicino to Roma Termini, which is on both Metro lines A and B. A ticket costs €18.

🚌 Getting From Ciampino Airport to Rome

A taxi from Ciampino Airport to the city center should cost €31 and would take around 40-50 mins depending on traffic. For more convenience, you can also book a private transfer directly to your hotel.

🌟 Top Tip: The best balance between price and convenience is to book a shuttle bus transfer. It’ll take you directly to Roma Termini (which is on both Metro lines A and B) in 45 mins and the ticket costs €6.

With that said, the cheapest option is to take the regional train. It’d get you to Roma Termini in 30-40 mins and only costs €2.70. However, you’d have to take a bus from the ‘Ciampino Airport’ stop to the ‘Ciampino’ stop first, and switch to another train from there.

🛵 How to Get Around Rome

🚇 By Foot & By Metro

Most of Rome’s tourist attractions are located close to one another, making walking the best way to see the city. The historic center is a joy to wander through, and even aimlessly strolling its cobblestone streets can lead to the most charming hidden gems.

That said, if your feet need a break (which is pretty likely when visiting Rome), the Metro (subway) is a great backup option. Rome has three Metro lines: Line A (red), Line B (blue), and Line C (green), and they’re all very easy to use.

In fact, most tourist attractions in Rome are connected by the Metro, and it’s likely you’ll have to take it when visiting the Vatican, which is a bit of a walk from the historic center.

🚌 By Public Bus

Public buses are another option for getting around Rome, though I wouldn’t personally recommend them. Traffic in the city is often heavy, which makes traveling by bus or car slow and frustrating.

Buses in the historic center also tend to be extremely crowded, making them a hotspot for pickpockets. For a faster and more reliable option, I suggest using the Metro—but be sure to keep an eye on your belongings there, too.

🎫 Tickets for Public Transportation

On buses, trams, and before entering Metro platforms, you’ll see machines where you can tap a contactless credit, debit, or prepaid card to pay. Each ride costs €1.50, and once you tap, your payment is valid for 100 minutes of travel.

To avoid fines, make sure to tap your card every time you switch modes of transport. As long as it’s within the 100-minute window, you won’t be charged again for additional taps.

If you don’t have a contactless card, you’ll need to buy a paper BIT ticket (biglietto semplice) to ride public transport in Rome. A one-way ticket costs €1.50, is valid for 100 minutes, and works on the Metro, buses, trams, and Rome’s urban trains.

You can buy BIT tickets at Metro stations, any tabaccheria (tobacco shop), or edicola (newsstand) in Rome. You can’t buy them on board buses, so be sure to get one before you hop on!

🎫 Top Tip: If you’re using a BIT ticket, don’t forget to validate it at the machine once you board the bus. If you skip this step, you risk a fine during random checks by the police.

🧳 Luggage Storage in Rome

🚉 At the Roma Termini Station

Most hotels in Rome will hold your luggage for you before check-in or after check-out, but there’s also a convenient luggage storage option right at Roma Termini station.

Head to Via Giovanni Giolitti 127, and you’ll find the ‘Luggage Deposit’ shop on the sidewalk directly across from the station. You can even book your spot online in advance.

Roma Termini is the city’s main transportation hub. It’s on both Metro lines A and B and serves as the final stop for many airport trains and shuttles. If you’re arriving in Rome by train from another Italian city, Termini is where your train will take you.

⛲️ At the Centro Storico (Historic Center)

Alternatively, you can store your luggage in the historic center of Rome. Head to City Center Luggage Storage – they have locations at the Colosseum, Vatican, and Piazza Navona.

💰 Rome in One Day Itinerary Budget

If you’re a budget traveler, plan to spend around €50 per day in Rome. This assumes you’ll be staying in low-cost hostels and grabbing casual pizza or panini to-go instead of dining at restaurants.

For comfort travelers, expect to spend around €100 daily, staying in boutique hotels and eating at moderately priced restaurants. Luxury travelers can expect to spend €175 or more per day if staying in high-end hotels and enjoying fine dining experiences.

Here’s a quick cost breakdown:

🏨 Accommodation (per night): €7-25 budget / €40-85 comfort / €85-450 luxury

🍝 Food: Around €15 at restaurants (main + non-alcoholic drink) / €3-7 for pizza or panini to-go

🚇 Transportation: €1.50 for every Metro, bus, tram, or urban train ticket (valid for 100 mins)

🎫 Entry fees for museums & attractions: €8-25

🔮 Travel Insurance for Italy

I never thought I needed travel insurance… until I did. And I’m a careful traveler. Sometimes, things are simply out of your control.

During my many years of traveling, I’ve gotten into a really scary car accident while riding in the back of a taxi, have needed emergency dental services, and have almost had all my valuables stolen. (These were all from separate trips, thankfully.)

I use Heymondo and can highly recommend them — they provide 24/7 worldwide assistance (with Covid-19 coverage included), and no hidden out-of-pocket fees.

Get a quote from Heymondo

🎒 Safety Tips for Visiting Rome

Rome is generally a safe place to visit, but as you’ve probably heard, pickpockets are a real issue in the city center—especially around major tourist spots like the Colosseum, Trevi Fountain, and the Vatican, as well as on buses and the Metro (subway).

Unfortunately, pickpockets in Rome are incredibly fast and very skilled, so it’s important to always keep a close eye (and hand) on your belongings.

🌟 Top Tip: Be especially cautious at Termini station and on Bus No. 64, the popular route between Termini and the Vatican. Other high-risk spots include the busy Metro stations at Spagna, Cipro, Barberini, and Colosseo. Also, avoid hanging your backpack on the back of your chair at restaurants.

Here are a few items you can pack to make your one day Rome tour safer:

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This Slash-Proof Purse has slash-resistant body panels and shoulder straps, which can be secured to a stationary object. It comes with RFID blocking too to protect your cards & IDs, so you can travel with peace of mind.

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This Anti-Theft Travel Backpack comes with a fixed anti-theft password lock, RFID blocking which protects your cards and IDs, and a USB charging port. It also works great as a laptop bag or a hiking daypack.

📸 My Rome Photography Gear

This is the photography gear I used to capture most of the pictures featured in this guide. You can also see my recommendations for the best cameras for bloggers.

• Cameras: Nikon D610 + Sony A6400 (check out the best Sony lenses)
• Main lens: Tamron SP 24-70mm f/2.8
• Telephoto lens: Nikon 70-300mm f/4.5-5.6 G
• Wide-angle lens: Tokina AF 16-28mm f/2.8
• Prime lens: Nikon 50mm f/1.4 G
• Tripod: Manfrotto Element Traveller Tripod (Ball Head)

I hope you enjoyed reading this guide on 24 hours in Rome, Italy!

For further reading on Rome, discover:
🏡 Where to Stay in Rome: Best Areas + Hotels
🏟 12 Best Rome Hotels with Colosseum Views
🍝 2 Days in Rome: The Ultimate Itinerary
🛵 3 Days in Rome: The Best Itinerary
⛲️ 4 Days in Rome: The Perfect Itinerary
🌃 Top 12 Rome By Night Tours to Take
🌿 27 Fantastic Day Trips From Rome, Italy
🏖 14 Best Beaches Near Rome, Italy

For further reading on Italy, discover:
🇮🇹 22 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Italy
🏙 24 Most Beautiful Cities to Visit in Italy
🏞 16 Most Beautiful Lakes to Visit in Italy

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