The Ultimate Guide to 24 hours in Rome: Everything You Need to Know
Ah, Rome! The Eternal City, where ancient history and vibrant culture collide. If you find yourself with just 24 hours to explore this magnificent city, don’t worry! I’ve got you covered with a compact yet fulfilling itinerary that hits all the highlights. Let’s dive in, starting from the moment you land at the airport.
Getting to Rome from the Airport
First things first—getting to Rome. If you’re flying into Fiumicino Airport (FCO), you have a few convenient options to reach the city centre:
Train: The Leonardo Express is a non-stop train that runs every 30 minutes and takes about 32 minutes to reach Termini Station. It’s comfortable and a great way to start your Roman adventure.
Bus: Several bus services operate between the airport and central Rome, such as the SitBus and Terravision. This option is usually cheaper than the train but may take longer depending on traffic.
Taxi: A fixed fare of around €48 takes you from Fiumicino to central Rome. Just be sure to grab an official taxi from the designated ranks outside the terminal.
Ride-Sharing: Services like Uber are available, though you might find taxis more straightforward in the city.
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Roma Pass: 72-Hour Official City Card with Transportation
Enjoy skip-the-line admission to 1 or 2 attractions included with your Roma Card
Benefit from reduced ticket prices for other museums and/or archaeological sites
Ride for free on the city’s public transportation network
Receive discounts on participating exhibitions, events, and activities
Get a free map of Rome to help you make your way around the city
Roma Pass: 72-Hour Official City Card with Transportation
Things to do in Rome
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Morning: Coffee and Ancient Wonders
Once you’ve arrived and checked into your accommodation (or stashed your bags if you’re staying elsewhere), kick off your day with a classic Italian breakfast. Grab a cappuccino and a cornetto (a delicious pastry not a croissant!!!) at a local café. Caffè Sant’Eustachio near the Pantheon is a fantastic spot, known for its rich coffee.
After fueling up, it’s time to dive into history. Start at the Colosseum. Arrive early to avoid long lines—book your tickets online in advance! Marvel at the ancient amphitheater and imagine the gladiatorial battles that once took place here.
Just a short walk away is the Roman Forum. Take your time wandering through the ruins, soaking up the atmosphere of this once-bustling heart of the Roman Empire.
Midday: Lunch and a Stroll
By now, you’ll have worked up an appetite. Head to Trastevere, a charming neighborhood with narrow streets and vibrant local life. Stop by Pizzeria da Baffetto for some of the best pizza in town. The thin crust and fresh ingredients are a must-try!
After lunch, take a leisurely stroll around Trastevere. Visit the beautiful Santa Maria in Trastevere, one of the oldest churches in Rome, known for its stunning mosaics.
Afternoon: Art and Architecture
Next, make your way to the Vatican City. Start at St. Peter’s Basilica. Climbing to the dome rewards you with breathtaking views of the city. The grandeur of the basilica itself is worth the visit, with its stunning art and architecture.
If you have time, don’t miss the Vatican Museums. You’ll see an incredible collection of art, including the famous Sistine Chapel. Again, booking tickets in advance is wise to avoid lengthy waits.
Evening: Dinner and Nighttime Magic
As evening falls, return to the city centre. For dinner, try Trattoria Da Enzo in Trastevere for authentic Roman dishes like Cacio e Pepe or Saltimbocca alla Romana. The cozy atmosphere and traditional recipes will make your meal memorable.
After dinner, head to the Trevi Fountain. It’s beautifully illuminated at night, creating a magical ambiance. Don’t forget to toss a coin over your shoulder into the fountain—this age-old tradition ensures your return to Rome!
Nightcap: Gelato and Views
To cap off your whirlwind day, grab some gelato from Gelateria Della Palma. With dozens of flavors, it’s a sweet way to end your Roman adventure.
If you’re still up for it, take a stroll to the Spanish Steps. The view from the top is stunning at night and provides a perfect spot to reflect on your day in this remarkable city.
Final Tips
Stay Hydrated: Rome can be warm, so drink plenty of water. Look for the public water fountains scattered throughout the city.
Dress Comfortably: You’ll be doing a lot of walking, so wear comfy shoes!
Local Etiquette: Remember to say “Grazie” and “Prego” when interacting with locals.
And there you have it! A whirlwind 24-hour itinerary that packs in some of Rome's best experiences. Even with limited time, you can soak up the beauty, history, and flavors of this incredible city. So, pack your bags and get ready for a Roman holiday you won’t forget!
The top 10 attractions in Rome that you won’t want to miss:
Colosseum: The iconic ancient amphitheater where gladiators once battled.
Vatican City: Home to St. Peter’s Basilica and the Vatican Museums, including the Sistine Chapel.
Roman Forum: The heart of ancient Rome, filled with ruins of important government buildings.
Trevi Fountain: A stunning Baroque fountain where visitors toss coins for good luck.
Pantheon: A well-preserved ancient temple, famous for its impressive dome and oculus.
Piazza Navona: A lively square known for its beautiful fountains and vibrant atmosphere.
Spanish Steps: A famous stairway of 135 steps, offering great views and a popular gathering spot.
Borghese Gallery: An art museum featuring works by Caravaggio, Raphael, and Bernini, set in the beautiful Borghese Gardens.
Castel Sant’Angelo: A historic fortress with stunning views of the Tiber River and the city.
Trastevere: A charming neighborhood known for its narrow streets, vibrant nightlife, and authentic Roman cuisine.
These attractions capture the essence of Rome's rich history, art, and culture!
Here are three hidden gems in Rome that offer a more local experience away from the usual tourist spots:
Basilica di San Clemente: This fascinating church is a layered site, featuring three structures built on top of each other. You can explore a 12th-century basilica, an older 4th-century church, and ancient Roman ruins below. It’s a stunning glimpse into Rome’s history.
The Orange Garden (Giardino degli Aranci): Located on Aventine Hill, this tranquil park offers spectacular views of the city and is a perfect spot for a peaceful escape. The fragrant orange trees and the charming atmosphere make it a lovely place for a picnic or a quiet moment.
Via Margutta: This picturesque street, famous for its artists and artisans, is lined with quaint shops, art galleries, and beautiful buildings. It’s a charming place to wander and soak up the local culture, away from the busier streets.
These hidden gems will give you a unique and memorable experience in Rome!
Where to stay in Rome
Here are three of the best 4-star hotels in Rome that offer comfort, great amenities, and convenient locations:
Hotel Artemide: Located near the Termini Station, this hotel combines modern elegance with historical charm. It features spacious rooms, a rooftop terrace with stunning views, and a restaurant serving delicious Italian cuisine.
Hotel Delle Nazioni: Situated just a short walk from the Trevi Fountain, this hotel offers cozy accommodations with classic decor. Guests can enjoy a complimentary breakfast and relax on the rooftop terrace overlooking the city.
Hotel Nazionale: This beautiful hotel is located near the Pantheon and offers stylish rooms with a blend of modern comforts and traditional elegance. The hotel features a lovely bar and a rich breakfast spread to start your day.
Flights to Rome
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FAQ's
1. Is 24 hours enough for Rome?
24 hours in Rome is enough to see a few key attractions, but you'll need to prioritise.
2. How to do Rome in 24 hours?
To do Rome in 24 hours, focus on landmarks like the Colosseum, Vatican, Trevi Fountain, and Piazza Navona, while walking or using quick transport.
3. Is the metro 24 hours in Rome?
Rome's metro does not run 24 hours, typically operating from 5:30 AM to 11:30 PM, and until 1:30 AM on weekends.
4. 24 hours in Rome itinerary
A 24-hour Rome itinerary could include visits to the Colosseum, Roman Forum, Vatican Museums, and a stroll through Trastevere.
5. 24 hours in Rome for couples
For couples, 24 hours in Rome can be spent visiting romantic spots like the Spanish Steps, sunset at Pincio Terrace, and an intimate dinner in Trastevere.
Hello I’m Paul a Travel and flight expert, I spent most of my career working in and around planes with 15 years providing top-notch service with a London-based airline. I became an expert in travel after soaring across the Atlantic up to 10 times a month!
I’m now, producing travel content, reaching millions of viewers monthly. Reporting on travel news, sharing travel tips, reviews, and deals with a sprinkle of humour and a whole lot of authenticity!
I hope you found The Ultimate Guide to 24 hours in Rome: Everything You Need to Know useful do let me know in the comments if you have any questions.
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