Are you planning a short trip to Rome and wondering what to see in just one day? Don’t worry, with careful planning and prioritizing, you can experience some of Rome’s most iconic attractions in just 24 hours. Here’s our guide to making the most of your one day in the Eternal City.
Start Your Day at the Colosseum
No visit to Rome is complete without a visit to the Colosseum. It’s a must-see attraction that’s synonymous with the city. We recommend starting your day at the Colosseum to avoid the crowds that start to gather later in the day. You can take a guided tour or explore on your own, but either way, make sure to spend at least an hour here to soak in the history and grandeur of this ancient amphitheater.
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To avoid the long lines at the Colosseum, buy your tickets in advance online or book a guided tour that includes skip-the-line access.
Explore the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill
After you’ve finished at the Colosseum, head next door to the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill. These two ancient sites were once the political and social center of ancient Rome, and they’re filled with fascinating ruins and history. You can easily spend a few hours here, exploring the ruins, taking in the views of the city, and learning about the history of the Roman Empire.
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If you’re short on time, skip the Roman Forum and head straight to Palatine Hill. It offers some of the best views of the city, and you’ll still get a sense of the ancient history of the area.
Visit the Vatican City
No trip to Rome is complete without a visit to the Vatican City, the smallest country in the world. Here you’ll find the world-famous St. Peter’s Basilica, the Sistine Chapel, and the Vatican Museums, which house some of the most important art collections in the world. We recommend spending at least a few hours here, taking in the art and architecture and soaking in the spiritual atmosphere.
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To avoid the long lines at the Vatican, buy your tickets in advance online or book a guided tour that includes skip-the-line access. Also, make sure to dress appropriately, as the Vatican has a strict dress code.
End Your Day at the Trevi Fountain
After a long day of sightseeing, end your day at the Trevi Fountain, one of Rome’s most iconic landmarks. It’s a beautiful fountain that’s been featured in many movies and is a popular spot for tourists and locals alike. Make sure to toss a coin in the fountain, as legend has it that doing so will ensure your return to Rome.
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To avoid the crowds at the Trevi Fountain, visit early in the morning or late at night. It’s also a good idea to be vigilant of pickpockets in the area.
Conclusion
While one day in Rome may not be enough to see everything the city has to offer, with careful planning and prioritizing, you can still experience some of the most iconic attractions. Start your day at the Colosseum, explore the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill, visit the Vatican City, and end your day at the Trevi Fountain. With these must-see attractions checked off your list, you’ll have a memorable day in the Eternal City.
