Rome, the Eternal City, is a must-visit destination for anyone who loves history, art, and culture. With its ancient monuments, exquisite museums, and delicious cuisine, there is no shortage of things to do in Rome. However, with so much to see and experience, it can be overwhelming to plan a trip to Rome, especially if you only have a week. In this article, we will provide you with a comprehensive guide on what to do in Rome for a week.
Day 1: Ancient Rome
Start your week in Rome by exploring its ancient past. Visit the Colosseum, the largest amphitheater ever built, and marvel at its impressive architecture. Then head to the Roman Forum, the center of ancient Rome, where you can see the ruins of temples, arches, and basilicas that once stood there. Finally, make your way to the Pantheon, one of the best-preserved ancient buildings in Rome, and be amazed by its stunning dome.
Colosseum
The Colosseum is one of the most iconic landmarks in Rome. This impressive amphitheater was built in 72 AD and could seat up to 50,000 spectators. It was used for gladiatorial contests, animal hunts, and other public spectacles. Today, you can visit the Colosseum and explore its underground chambers, where the gladiators and wild animals were kept.
Roman Forum
The Roman Forum was the center of ancient Rome, where political, social, and religious activities took place. Today, it is a vast archaeological site with ruins of temples, arches, and basilicas that once stood there. Some of the most impressive structures include the Temple of Saturn, the Arch of Titus, and the Basilica of Maxentius.
Pantheon
The Pantheon is one of the best-preserved ancient buildings in Rome. It was built as a temple to all the gods in 27 BC and later converted into a church. Its most striking feature is the impressive dome, which is made of concrete and adorned with beautiful marble and bronze decorations.
Day 2: Vatican City
No trip to Rome is complete without a visit to Vatican City, the smallest sovereign state in the world. Here, you can see some of the most famous artworks in the world, including the Sistine Chapel and St. Peter’s Basilica.
Sistine Chapel
The Sistine Chapel is located in the Vatican Museums and is famous for its ceiling painted by Michelangelo. The ceiling depicts scenes from the Book of Genesis, including the creation of Adam and Eve. The Sistine Chapel is a must-visit for anyone who loves art and history.
St. Peter’s Basilica
St. Peter’s Basilica is the largest church in the world and is located in the heart of Vatican City. It was built in the 16th century and is famous for its impressive architecture and beautiful decorations. Inside, you can see works of art by some of the greatest artists in history, including Michelangelo and Bernini.
Day 3: Baroque Rome
Rome is famous for its Baroque architecture, which is characterized by ornate decorations, curved lines, and dramatic effects. Spend a day exploring the Baroque masterpieces of Rome, including the Trevi Fountain, the Spanish Steps, and the Piazza Navona.
Trevi Fountain
The Trevi Fountain is one of the most famous fountains in the world and is a masterpiece of Baroque art. It was built in the 18th century and is adorned with beautiful sculptures of sea gods and horses. Legend has it that if you throw a coin into the fountain, you will return to Rome one day.
Spanish Steps
The Spanish Steps are a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. They were built in the 18th century and connect the Piazza di Spagna with the Trinita dei Monti church. The steps are a great place to relax and enjoy the views of Rome.
Piazza Navona
Piazza Navona is one of the most beautiful squares in Rome and is famous for its Baroque fountains and sculptures. It was built in the 17th century and is surrounded by elegant palaces and churches. The centerpiece of the square is the Fountain of the Four Rivers, which depicts the four major rivers of the world.
Day 4: Trastevere
Trastevere is a charming neighborhood located on the west bank of the Tiber River. It is known for its narrow streets, colorful buildings, and lively atmosphere. Spend a day exploring this quaint neighborhood and enjoy its delicious food, vibrant nightlife, and beautiful churches.
Santa Maria in Trastevere
Santa Maria in Trastevere is one of the oldest churches in Rome and is known for its beautiful mosaics and frescoes. It was built in the 4th century and has been restored and renovated over the years. Inside, you can see works of art by some of the greatest artists in history, including Pietro Cavallini and Domenichino.
Piazza di Santa Maria in Trastevere
Piazza di Santa Maria in Trastevere is the heart of the neighborhood and is a great place to relax and enjoy the views. The square is surrounded by elegant buildings and is famous for its beautiful fountain.
Food and Drink
Trastevere is known for its delicious food and lively nightlife. There are many restaurants, bars, and cafes in the area that serve traditional Roman dishes, such as cacio e pepe, carbonara, and amatriciana. Make sure to try some of the local wines, such as Frascati and Castelli Romani.
Day 5: Villa Borghese
Villa Borghese is a beautiful park located in the heart of Rome. It is known for its stunning gardens, beautiful fountains, and impressive art collection. Spend a day exploring this peaceful oasis and enjoy its natural beauty and cultural treasures.
Galleria Borghese
The Galleria Borghese is a must-visit for anyone who loves art. It is located in the Villa Borghese and is home to a vast collection of paintings, sculptures, and other works of art. Some of the most famous works in the gallery include Bernini’s Apollo and Daphne, Caravaggio’s David with the Head of Goliath, and Raphael’s Entombment.
Villa Borghese Gardens
The Villa Borghese Gardens are a great place to relax and enjoy the views of Rome. They are home to many beautiful fountains, statues, and monuments, including the Pincio Terrace, the Temple of Aesculapius, and the Water Clock.
Day 6: Shopping and Markets
Rome is known for its fashion and shopping, and there are many markets and shops in the city where you can find unique and stylish items. Spend a day exploring the shops and markets of Rome and enjoy its vibrant shopping scene.
Via del Corso
Via del Corso is one of the most famous shopping streets in Rome. It is lined with elegant shops and boutiques that sell everything from high-end fashion to souvenirs. Make sure to stop by the Palazzo Doria Pamphilj, a beautiful palace that houses a vast art collection.
Campo de’ Fiori Market
The Campo de’ Fiori Market is a popular destination for foodies and shoppers. It is located in the heart of Rome and is famous for its fresh produce, meats, cheeses, and spices. The market is a great place to try some of the local specialties, such as porchetta, pizza bianca, and gelato.
Day 7: Appian Way
The Appian Way is one of the oldest and most famous roads in Rome. It was built in the 4th century BC and connected Rome with the southern regions of Italy. Today, it is a popular destination for tourists who want to explore the ancient ruins and beautiful countryside of Rome.
Catacombs of San Callisto
The Catacombs of San Callisto are a series of underground tombs that were used by early Christians in the 2nd and 3rd centuries. They are located on the Appian Way and are a great place to explore the history and culture of ancient Rome.
Villa dei Quintili
The Villa dei Quintili is a beautiful villa located on the Appian Way. It was built in the 2nd century AD and was once the home of two Roman emperors. Today, it is a popular destination for tourists who want to explore the ruins and gardens of this ancient villa.
Conclusion
Rome is a city that never ceases to amaze and inspire. With its ancient monuments, exquisite museums, delicious cuisine, and vibrant culture, there is something for everyone in Rome. We hope that this guide has given you some inspiration and ideas for what to do in Rome for a week. Happy travels!
