How to enjoy Rome in two days

What do you do if you only have two days to see Rome? Here is our itinerary to help you plan your visit.

If you have never visited Rome before, it is definitely time to seriously consider paying the city a visit, even if it's only for two days. Even though, as is the case when visiting most Italian cities, two days will never be enough time to see and do everything, you are certain to have an amazing time.

Rome is full of things to see, so much so that it can be difficult to give priority to one attraction over another.

The first question you should ask yourself is whether or not you want to see the Vatican Museums as, if your answer is "yes", you will need to dedicate an entire day to your visit. On the other hand, if your answer is "no", here is our short guide as to what to see in Rome in two days.

DAY 1

Colosseum

You should start the first day of your visit with the city's most famous symbol - the Flavian Amphitheatre, or The Colosseum as it is better known.

The Colosseum was the site where the games were held during the days of the Roman Empire, and it took 8 years to build, from 72 AD until 80 AD.

The Colosseum is open from 8:30 am until around 5:00 pm and the entrance fee is 12 Euros; however if you are aged between 18 and 25, you are entitled to pay a reduced rate of just 7.50 Euros. Don't forget too that on the first Sunday of every month, entrance to the Colosseum is free for everybody!

The Forums

The Forums are split between the Imperial Forum and the Roman Forum. The Imperial Forum is made up of several monumental squares built by various emperors, and the Roman Forum is the old republican square, which was once the political and religious heart of the city.

A visit to the Roman Forum often also includes the Palatine, where according to legend, the city of Rome was originally settled. A ticket costs around 12 Euros.

Domus Aurea

Translating directly as "house of gold", these are the ruins of a villa which was built by the Roman Emperor Nero after the fire which devastated Rome in AD 64.

It will be open to the public from February 4th 2017, thanks to a meticulous restoration process.

DAY 2

Trevi Fountain

Famous all over the world, the Trevi Fountain is a must-see attraction in Rome, even if you only have two days. It is Rome's largest fountain.

Sant'Angelo Castle

The Castel Sant'Angelo is found on the road that leads from the Trevi Fountain to the Vatican City. This castle is one of Italy's most visited museums, built in 123 AD as a tomb for the Emperor Hadrian's family.

Basilica of Saint Peter

St. Peter's Basilica is the largest of the four papal churches in Rome, and its construction dates back to 1600.

Try to book to see St Peter's Basilica in advance as there is always a big queue at the entrance.

If you find that you have a bit of extra time but you have already exhausted your budget, you could always pop into one of Rome's free museums.

Trastevere

In the evening treat yourself to a stroll here, especially in summer, when many fascinating stalls are found alongside the River Tiber.

And if the labyrynth of Rome's streets is just too much (especially if you had one or two drinks in Trastevere), then it's time to put your trust on those who know the city like the back of their hands.

For a stress-free arrival or departure from the city and for any help you may need getting around, we recommend that you download the Prontopia app before your arrival. The app gives you access to in-person help from a Prontopia local whenever you need it and it will leave you free to enjoy the surrounding landscape without having to check your phone every two seconds to catch the right turn!

WHERE TO STAY IN ROME

In Rome, you really are spoiled for choice when it comes to choosing a hostel to stay in. We have selected those which are situated close to the Termini station, which you can read more about in this article.