The best of Rome in 2 days
An old saying goes ‘Not even a lifetime would be enough to get to know Rome’ and it couldn’t have been more accurate.
Is two days enough in Rome? The city is a modern-day marvel built on layers of ancient ruins. It can get overwhelming if you only have two days to make the most of the Eternal City, but if you follow this itinerary, you’ll certainly get a feel for the very best of food and sights that Rome has to offer.
2-Day Rome Itinerary – What to see in 2 days in Rome, Italy
Check it out below 👇
#1 Day One
Breakfast with the locals
Breakfast in Rome isn’t bacon and eggs or a sit-down affair. Head to any coffee bar, order cappuccino and cornetto (Italian version of a croissant) and drink and eat standing like a true Roman. A great option for a local breakfast experience in the Prati neighborhood—walking distance from St. Peter’s Basilica—is Castroni.
Holy domes
After breakfast, head to St. Peter’s Basilica. It’s worth the wait for a peek inside. The interior covered in technicolored marble and the striking sculpture of Pieta by Michelangelo (to the right when you walk in) can marvel anyone. Afterwards, linger outside Bernini’s piazza and sunbathe on the colonnade.
Here comes the market
Cross the Tiber River to Piazza Campo de’Fiori, where a lively market takes place. The famous Forno Campo de’Fiori bakery is also located at the piazza, a place to grab pizza bianca (Rome’s equivalent of a focaccia, crispy and salty on the outside and soft and fluffy on the inside). If you are in the mood for something sweet, head to Roscioli Caffe (Piazza Benedetto Cairoli 16) around the corner and try their famous roman cream bun, the maritozzo!
Bernini and Caravaggio spotting
Discover the hidden gems of Rome! From Campo it’s a short walk to Piazza Navona, one of the best examples of Baroque architecture in the city. Here, you can get your fix of Bernini, whose Fountain of the Four Rivers dominates the piazza’s center. On your way to the Pantheon stop at church San Luigi dei Francesi to view three famous paintings by Caravaggio.
When in Rome…eat!
Not far from here, take the tram near Largo Argentina which will take you to Trastevere, one of the liveliest and prettiest districts in the city. There are plenty of delicious Roman dining restaurants. For a real-deal pizza head to Ai Marmi (Viale di Trastevere 53), the wait really pays off. For roman cuisine try out Da Enzo (Via dei Vascellari 29). Save some room for a gelato from Fatamorgana at Piazza San Cosimato and take a stroll through the buzzing nightlife.
#2 Day Two
Catch the view and walk over the rooftops
For a peaceful start to your day in this lively city, grab your morning cappuccino and cornetto, and head over to Pincian – the hill that overlooks Piazza del Popolo. Take a walk along the Roman roofs and domes until you come to the church at the top of the Spanish Steps, the Trinita dei Monti. Heading back into the city, don’t forget to stop by the historic Caffe Greco at the famous high-end shopping street, Via Condotti, for a second coffee. Stroll through the shopping streets, stop by the Trevi fountain, make a wish and toss your coin!
Pasta is a must
Take a lunch break at the local homemade pasta spot Pastificio Guerra, at Via della Croce 8. They serve only two daily pasta dishes and for a few euros you can eat like a local here. If you prefer something fancier, head to Enoteca al Parlamento Achilli (Via dei Prefetti 15), a Michelin star restaurant.
Capitoline Hill
After lunch head towards Piazza Venezia at the end of Via del Corso. Climb the Capitoline Hill to discover the Campidoglio, designed by Michelangelo. The views of the Forum and Palazzo Senatorio are absolutely stunning.
Hip Rome by night
If you want to discover Rome in 2 days, you must get a taste of the nightlife! For an aperitivo and dinner, head to one of Rome’s hip neighborhoods, Monti, right next to the Colosseum. Get a glass of wine at Fafiuché or visit Urbana 47 which offers contemporary Italian slow food in a stylish vintage setting. Monti’s surrounding area is packed with unique shops, restaurants and bars so you’ll definitely find there what you are looking for.
Where to stay in Rome?
Our MEININGER Roma Termini is located in the center of the city, which gives our guests amazing access to all the major attractions Rome has to offer. Families get a 15% discount, and you can even bring your pet along! 🐾
