Itinerary: 24 Hours in Rome
A practical guide to spending a day in Rome, including where to stay, transportation, sightseeing, and dining.
Rome is a popular stopover on the way to visit other European destinations. It’s one of my favorite cities in the world. The city has warm and friendly energy, incredible restaurants, reasonably priced food, and fascinating historical structures sprinkled throughout the city. A stroll through Rome feels like history frozen in time.
My last trip to Rome was a magical 24-hour stopover on the way to Sicily. I was traveling with Aaron which was his first time in Italy. Rediscovering Rome through his fresh perspective made it all the more special. We only had 24 hours but made the most of it with this itinerary.
Where to Stay in Rome?
During every visit, I stayed in Trastevere which I highly recommend. It’s by far my favorite area of Rome!
Trastevere is a popular neighborhood with narrow cobblestone streets, a lively atmosphere, incredible restaurants, shopping, and fun nightlife. Trastevere is a great option to experience ‘authentic’ Rome!
The Historic Center is in the heart of Rome. It’s where you can explore famous landmarks like the Colosseum, the Roman Forum, and the Pantheon. If your priority is to tour these main attractions, this area would be a convenient stay.
Monti is a trendy neighborhood located near the Colosseum. If you’d like to stay in a lively area with a younger crowd, Monti is where you should stay. This area is considered a safe, well-connected place.
Vatican City is great if your top priorities are exploring the Vatican and St. Peter’s Basilica, staying here could be a convenient option. This area is quieter compared to the History Center and Trastevere but it’s well-connected to the rest of Rome.
Testaccio is located South of the Historic Center and is known for its food market and traditional Roman cuisine. This neighborhood is home to many local specialties including trippa alla romana (Roman-style tripe) and coda alla vaccinara (braised oxtail). This area is also known for its vibrant nightlife, bars and live music venues.
Hotels in Trastevere
If you’re traveling to Rome you shouldn’t be spending too much time in your room! I haven’t stayed in a hotel worth recommending. There are numerous options from boutique hotels to luxury stays. Since Trastevere is my favorite area to stay I’ve highlighted popular hotel options below.
Otivm Hotel – This luxury hotel is located in the heart of Trastevere. It is one of the more popular hotels in Rome with a unique blend of modern luxury and traditional Italian charm. The average cost for a standard room in Otivm Hotel is $200 or $220.
Tree Charme – Tree Charme is a hotel perfect for foodies and nightlife lovers. The rooms are spacious and modern, with comfortable beds and stylish decor. Standard rooms in Tree Charme can go as low as $230 or $260.
Vinci House – If you opt for a budget-friendly stay, you can choose Vinci House. The hotel offers modern and classic Italian vibes. Enjoy the Vinci House for as low as $139 per night.
Hotel Santa Maria – Located in the heart of Trastevere, Hotel Santa Maria is like a restored traditional Italian structure. It has a beautiful garden and offers excellent customer service. Hotel Santa Maria’s standard room ranges from $100 to $230.
Hotel Domus Tiberina – Hotel Domus Tiberina is located near the Tiber River. It is popular for its rooftop terrace with stunning views of the city, as well as cozy and comfortable rooms. The hotel also offers free Wi-Fi. Get a Hotel Domus Tiberina standard room for as low as $100!
Trastevere Luxury Guest House – This hotel is a great selection as it’s close to many restaurants and shops in Trastevere. It has spacious rooms with modern décor that can make you feel at home. Book a room today for only $189 per night.
W Hotel San Francesco – Hotel San Francesco is located in the center of Trastevere and offers comfortable rooms, modern amenities, and a picturesque rooftop terrace. It’s famous for its courtyard garden where you can grab a cocktail. [$150-$350 per night]
Hotel Ripa Roma – This hotel is also in Trastevere and features stylish, modern rooms with wooden floors and contemporary furnishings. It is known for its excellent location, close to many bars and restaurants. [$165-$350 per night]
Activities
Rome is the perfect crossover between history, food, culture, and art. The city’s energy is infectious. You can have a fabulous day aimlessly walking around but for a short stay, you should make a plan.
Visit the Colosseum - The Colosseum is the unofficial symbol of Rome. It’s a marvel of engineering and architecture with a complex history. It was used as an arena by gladiators. If you have the time it’s worth pre-booking a tour Here to reserve a time and skip lines. [Tickets range from 16 to 30 euros]
Walk through St. Peter's Square - Right in front of the Basilica of St. Peter, at the heart of Vatican City is St. Peter's Square. This square is surrounded by stunning architecture.
Toss a Coin in the Trevi Fountain - This stunning masterpiece is a must-see attraction for anyone visiting Rome. The fountain is a popular spot for tourists, so be prepared for crowds. Also, it is said that if you throw a coin over your shoulder into the fountain, you'll be granted a wish.
Visit the Vatican Museums - The Vatican Museums are a treasure trove of art and history. You can explore the galleries and marvel at the breathtaking works of art, including the famous Sistine Chapel. It's recommended to book your tickets in advance to skip the long lines.
Check out Campo de' Fiori - A vibrant piazza in Rome's historic center known for its daily outdoor market and lively atmosphere. You can sample fresh or grab a drink at one of the many cafes and restaurants around the square.
Spanish Steps - A historic staircase in Rome with 135 steps. It’s a popular tourist destination and a great spot for people-watching, especially during the spring and summer months.
Seven Hills of Rome - These hills played a significant role in the city's history. Each hill has its own unique story and cultural significance. Today, they remain an important part of Rome's landscape and offer stunning views of the city.
Relax at the Villa Borghese Gardens - I’ve never made it here but many like to escape the hustle and bustle of the city to visit this beautiful park. You can rent a bike or simply stroll around the gardens and take in the tranquil atmosphere.
Visit the Pantheon - The Pantheon is one of the most well-preserved ancient buildings in Rome. It was built as a temple to all the gods of Ancient Rome and has been used as a Catholic church since the 6th century. It’s centrally located and worth a stop. (free entry)
Getting Around
Getting around Rome is relatively easy. The most popular way is on foot. The city's public transportation system includes buses, trams, and metro lines to connect you through the city.
Taxis can be quite expensive so I prefer Uber for locations within driving distance.
Top Restaurants
Rome has some of the BEST cuisines in the world. Plan to book ahead, especially for restaurants in Trastevere. We were there off-season and many were already fully booked! If you love Italian food, you will be in heaven. The quality of ingredients, the artistry of the preparation, and the fresh, homemade options are a culinary delight. Many restaurants in Rome offer gluten and dairy-free options to account for food sensitivities. I have never had a bad meal in Rome.
I haven’t had the chance to try all of them but here are some top-rated options:
Felicea Testaccio - The menu at Felice a Testaccio is a celebration of traditional Roman cuisine, with many dishes inspired by ancient Rome. Guests can try the signature dishes such as Cacio e Pepe, Spaghetti alla Felice, and Carciofi Alla Romana, which are all made with great care and attention to detail. [$$]
Seu Pizza Illuminati - A renowned pizzeria in Rome, offering creative and flavorful pizzas with unconventional toppings like truffles, exotic spices, and unexpected toppings to create memorable and flavorful pies. [$$]
Marigold Roma - Another innovative menu that offers a variety of dishes from pork belly sandwiches to roast beef zucchini and decadent desserts. [$$]
Roscioli - This restaurant is known for its food, extensive wine list (more than 2,800 labels to be exact), and ambiance. This is a family-run restaurant that takes pride in ensuring an exceptional dining experience. [$$$]
Enoteca La Torre- If you stop here the “Partenopea” beef or their tasting menu which can consist of three dishes of your choosing for a very reasonable price are popular options. [$$$$]
Pizzeria Dar Poeta - A great spot for pizza lovers in Rome. They serve delicious thin-crust pizza cooked to perfection in a wood-fired oven. [$$]
L'Arcangelo - Known for its daily specials. The intimate and cozy atmosphere adds to the dining experience, making it a popular choice for a romantic night out.[$$$]
Roma Sparita: This restaurant is famous for its cacio e pepe which is prepared tableside. [$$]
Trattoria Da Enzo al 29: Serving up some of the best carbonara in the city, prepared with a few simple ingredients. [$$]
BHH Colosseum Restaurant at Hotel Palazzo Manfredi: For a fine dining experience featuring a fusion of Italian and international cuisine with views of the Colosseum. [$$$$]
KEEP IN MIND - Dining near a major attraction is a ‘tourist trap.’ You will usually pay a lot more but not necessarily for better quality food. Nothing is more disappointing than a bad meal on a trip. That’s why I usually stick to grabbing drinks in locales like these to still get the experience.
Bonus Tip – Grab a drink at the Courts before dinner! This lounge is in direct view of the Colosseum and offers beverages and a good ambiance. The drinks are pricey but come with a full charcuterie board and snacks which was a pleasant surprise. We were there for sunset but If you prefer to stop by after dinner, it’s open until late at night.
Dessert in Rome
Gelato shops are a highlight in Rome. You can also stop by the iconic bakeries to grab fresh homemade pastries. With all the walking it’s easy to work up an appetite.
Giolitti - This iconic gelateria has been serving gelato since 1890. It’s the oldest ice cream parlor in the city.
La Romana - La Romana is a popular gelato chain that has been operating since the 1940s. There are multiple locations throughout Rome.
Tiramisu - We stopped at Tiramisu in Trastevere before dinner (call it a stomach opener). Tiramisu is a classic Italian dessert with layers of ladyfingers soaked in coffee and liqueur with luscious mascarpone cream. It didn’t disappoint!
Italian pastries - From the flaky layers of sfogliatelle to the creamy and crunchy cannolis I’ve never met an Italian pastry I didn’t like. There was a bakery near our hotel and we stopped there in the morning to grab a pastry and espresso on our way out. We even stopped on the way back to the hotel after a day of exploring - that’s how good they are!
What to Pack
Rome has a Mediterranean climate, which means hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters.
Summer
Average summer temperatures are between 30-32°C/86-90°Fbut can go as high as 35°C/95°F) so beware it can get HOT! You’ll want to wear airy lightweight clothing such as linen shorts, flowy skirts, t-shirts, and sundresses. Don’t forget a hat, sunglasses and sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun. If you plan on visiting any religious sites, it’s mandatory to cover your legs and shoulders so don’t forget to pack a shawl.
Winter
Snow is a rare occurrence but temperatures are cold for this tropical gal. Make sure to pack warm, waterproof clothing, including a coat, gloves, and a scarf. The average high temperature in Rome is 12-15°C/54-59°F and can drop to 3-5°C/37-41°F.
Don’t forget to pack:
Scarf or shawl/pashmina - You’ll need a shawl for the summer and a scarf in the winter to cover your shoulders or short outfits to visit religious sites.
Comfortable shoes - Walking is the best way to explore Rome so wear comfortable sneakers to navigate cobbled streets, steep hills, and uneven terrain. If you want to get more dressed up for nighttime opt for a short block heel or wedge.
Adapter - if you’re traveling from the US you’ll need a European convertor. Remember to leave your blow dryer at home unless you are traveling with a convertor.
Rome is an incredible city to visit, even if you only have a day to explore. These tips and recommendations will help you maximize your time to experience all that the Eternal City has to offer!
ONE DAY IN ROME ITINERARY
9:00 AM - Start your day with a classic Italian breakfast of espresso and pastries from a nearby bakery
9:00 AM - Visit the Pantheon
8-minute walk
9:45 AM - Walk to Trevi fountain and toss in a coin for good luck (time your picture to avoid the crowds)
12-minute walk
10:30 AM - Visit Piazza Navona, a popular square, and stop for gelato
15-minute walk
10:00 AM - Stroll north on Via del Corso to the Spanish Steps
20-minute walk
11:00 AM - Grab a slice of pizza or sandwich for lunch on the go or stop at Supplizio (Via dei Banchi Vecchi, 143)
9-minute drive
12:00 PM - Take an Uber or Taxi to the Colosseum
12:30 PM Tour the Colosseum
2:00 PM Stop for a glass of wine and water nearby to cool off (these are tourist traps so expect high prices)
3:00 PM Walk to the Roman forum to visit the ancient city center, stop for another gelato
2-minute walk
4:30 PM - Head to Piazza del Campidoglio to see the stunning view from Michelangelo's square.
5:00 PM - Uber back to the hotel to shower, freshen up and reset
7:00 PM - Head back to Monti for a reservation at the Courts for small bites and drinks with a Colosseum view at sunset
8-minute drive
8:30 PM - Dinner at Armando al Pantheon (Salita dei Crescenzi, 31)
10:00 PM - Last gelato and an early night to catch a flight the next day!