Are you searching for what to do in Rome in a day? I recently visited Rome and only had literally one day in Rome to explore.
Here I present the attractions, the food, and the destinations to immerse you in the Italian culture.
One day may not seem like enough time to explore Italy’s Eternal City. However, with my tips, you can make the most of every moment!
I spent one day in Rome during the summer to rest up before beginning my Mediterranean cruise out of Rome. During my best of Rome one-day itinerary, I walked everywhere!
I highly suggest staying centrally located near the major attractions and the Rome metro if you do not favor walking as I do.
Make sure to check out my tips to stay healthy while traveling.
Founded in 753 B.C., over two million people call Rome home.
Let’s dive into what to see in Rome, Italy!
Rome In A Day: 12 Things Not To Miss On Your Rome Itinerary
The Roman Colosseum
Nothing represents Rome more than the ruins of the Colosseum. This is a must-see in Rome!
Capable of seating over 50,000 spectators, the Colosseum was used for ancient Roman entertainment. Gladiators, animals, and slaves were the main form of entertainment.
Contrary to popular belief, few Christians were martyred there.
The Colosseum is listed as one of the New 7 Wonders of the World. It is a huge edifice you can hardly miss when visiting Rome in a day.
Book a guided tour here in advance to secure a spot and learn all about the history here! This is one of the most popular things to do in Italy, and you will not want to miss it!
Book Here: Rome: Colosseum Skip-the-Line Guided Tour
Book Here: Rome: Priority Access Colosseum, Roman Forum & Palatine Tour
The Roman Forum
The heart of the Roman Empire until its demise, the Roman Forum at one time was the political and economic center of the city.
Now simply a jumble of romantic buildings and ancient stately columns, the Forum should be seen during your time in Rome, Italy.
There are arches, temples, and ancient structures, like the House of the Vestal Virgins, to explore.
Hiking up Palantine Hill will reward you with a stately view of the Roman Forum and further ruins of ancient wealthy Roman families to explore.
A Rome 1-day itinerary would not be complete without a stop at the Forum!
Book Here: Rome: Colosseum, Palatine Hill, and Roman Forum Guided Tour
Palatine Hill
Located near the Colosseum and the Forum, Palatine Hill is an easy add-on to your 1-day Rome itinerary.
Anyone interested in archaeology will want to explore the centremost of the seven hills of Rome. As one of the most ancient spots in the city, there are a ton of ruins here.
According to legend, this is where Romulus and Remus, the founders of Rome, were found by the she-wolf who raised them.
I suggest visiting the Palatine Museum which has a ton of archaeological finds from the hill. You’ll see statues, pieces of frescoes, pottery, and more.
The hill also provides a great view of the Colosseum away from the crowds. This is perfect for a photo op!
Book Here: Rome: Skip-the-Line Tour to Colosseum, Forum, Palatine Hill
Rome In A Day: The Trevi Fountain
When spending one day in Rome, nothing is more touristy than visiting the iconic Trevi Fountain.
Tradition has it that throwing a coin into its waters assures you will return to Rome.
I tossed my first coin into the Trevi Fountain waters when I was in high school. Little did I know, it would take me fifty years to return to Rome!
Lovely with its ornate Baroque architecture tucked away in a tiny piazza, the fountain got its name from three roads – tre vie – that meet there.
Look closely to notice all the carved figures flanking the main statue of Neptune. The Trevi Fountain is the most photographed in Rome.
Word to the wise: this is a popular and very crowded destination.
If you want to take pictures without the hordes, I suggest getting up early in the morning and heading there first.
Rome’s famous places get congested, but morning is the best time to avoid the crowds.
If you are traveling a great distance to get to Italy, you can read my tips about surviving those long-haul international flights here.
Book Here: Rome Highlights: Squares and Fountains Walking Tour
Saint Peter’s Basilica
When you have only one day in Rome, you probably have one or two top things you want to accomplish. My top goal was to visit Vatican City.
Thought of as one of the holiest of all Roman Catholic churches, St Peter’s Basilica was built on the site where St. Peter is buried.
It has the largest interior of any Christian church in the world.
Please be advised of a strict modesty dress code policy to enter the basilica.
No shorts, no short skirts, and no bare shoulders are permitted.
I brought a lightweight shawl to cover my head and shoulders. Street hawkers sell scarves near the entrance if you forget the dress code.
The tomb of Pope Saint John Paul II, Bernini’s high altar Baldacchino, and Michaelangelo’s magnificent sculpture La Pieta are just a few of the treasures inside the basilica.
If you are looking for things to do in Rome at night, see the basilica lit up in the evening.
Book Here: Rome: St. Peter’s Basilica Tour with Dome and Papal Tombs
Book Here: Rome: Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel, and Basilica Tour
The Vatican Museum and Sistine Chapel
Considered the world’s largest museum complex, the Vatican Museum contains multiple self-contained museums comprising over 1,400 rooms.
It is big and has a LOT to see. Egyptian, Roman, Renaissance, and Baroque art dominates. Not to be missed is the massive spiral staircase.
Do not miss the Sistine Chapel which displays popular and world-famous frescoes by Michaelangelo, covering the ceiling and the altar wall.
These frescoes tell visual stories from the Old Testament and the Last Judgement.
Housing some of the most important masterpieces from the Renaissance period, the Vatican Museum should not be missed when exploring Rome in a day.
Book Here: Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel Skip-the-Ticket-Line Tour
The Spanish Steps
The Spanish Steps, all 138 of them, were built in 1723. They got their name because that is where the Spanish Embassy was located.
It is considered the most famous staircase in the world and will reward you with a fantastic view of Rome.
Also, you can visit the beautiful Piazza Trinita Dei Monti church at the top.
Climbing the Spanish Steps is a popular thing to do when visiting Rome. Plus, it is a great way to get a workout!
This is one of the top things to do in Rome in a day!
Book Here: Rome: Guided City Center Evening Sightseeing Walking Tour
The Pantheon
Pantheon means “to every God” and was commissioned in 27 BC by Agrippa as a temple to all gods of ancient Rome.
It was rebuilt around 118 AD and is still in use today. Although originally built as a temple, it became a Christian church in the 600s.
Located in the Piazza della Rotonda, the Pantheon houses the tomb of Raphael and two Italian kings.
It has a large impressive dome and is considered the best-preserved Roman monument.
This is something not to be missed when visiting Rome in a day.
Book Here: Rome: Pantheon Skip-the-Line Entry Ticket and Audio Guide
Book Here: Rome: Pantheon Museum Guided Tour with Skip-the-line Ticket
Piazza Navona
The Piazza Navona owes its shape to the Roman racetrack that was once there before it was deconstructed.
It is lively and full of restaurants, bars, and cafes. It is generally considered one of the most beautiful and elegant Baroque squares in Rome.
It is the perfect place to take pictures, have lunch or dinner, or perhaps do some people-watching!
Stop at one of the cute cafes and order the iconic Italian lemon cocktail, a limoncello spritz! It is the perfect refresher!
Look for the fountain in the square, the Fountain of Four Rivers.
It was designed by the master Giovanni Bernini. It is an interesting obelisk and a sculpture of four river gods.
This plaza is what to see in Rome if you want a place to chill for a little while.
Book Here: Rome: Piazza Navona 1-Hour Underground Audio Guide Tour
Castel Sant’Angelo
The Castle of the Holy Angel was Emperor Hadrian’s mausoleum. Centuries later it was used as a fortress. Today, it is a popular museum.
At first, the large cylindrical building was built as a mausoleum for Emperor Hadrian and his family.
Through subsequent wars and looting, much of the interior has been desecrated and destroyed. Later it was used as a fortress and jail.
Popes inhabited it for a time and there was a secret fortified corridor leading to St. Peter’s Square. This clandestine passageway was a well-kept secret that protected the popes.
Nowadays, the building is a museum. The structure was named after the Archangel Michael, the angel on the very top of the building.
This is what to do in Rome, Italy, if you want to explore hidden gems.
Book Here: Castel Sant’Angelo Skip-the-Line Entry & Optional Audioguide
Book Here: Rome: Secrets Beneath Castel Sant’Angelo Guided Tour
Rome In A Day: Capitoline Museums
Capitoline Museums is considered a single museum displaying art and archeological artifacts. It is located on Piazza Campidoglio at the top of Capitoline Hill.
It is considered the oldest museum in the world, dating back to 1471.
The museum is credited with the philosophy that art can be enjoyed by all, not just by the owners of the art. Today it houses one of Italy’s finest collections of classical art.
The main buildings that comprise the Capitoline Museums are set on the square designed by Michelangelo.
Priceless sculptures and paintings (dating back to the fifth century BC) are housed in these magnificent museums.
I recommend stopping by on your Rome in 1-day vacation!
Rome is one of the most beautiful cities in Italy, so this is no surprise!
Book Here: Rome: Capitoline Museums Experience with Multimedia Video
Book Here: Rome: Private Capitoline Museums Tour
Galleria Borghese Is A Must-See During Rome In A Day
For art lovers, the Galleria Borghese is another best places to visit in Rome!
Housed in the former Villa Borghese Pinciana, the Borghese Gallery is full of paintings, sculptures, and antiquities. You’ll see work by Caravaggio, Raphael, Bernini, and others.
Step back in time as you tour the opulent villa and discover exquisite artwork.
Wander the beautiful Villa Borghese Gardens. The giant park features panoramic city views, fantastic architecture, and amazing landscaping.
The gardens are also free, perfect if you are on a budget while on your 1 day in Rome itinerary.
Book Here: Rome: Borghese Gallery Skip-the-Line Entry Ticket
Where to Stay in Rome
If you are staying the night in Rome, there are plenty of places to stay no matter your budget. I suggest picking an accommodation close to the best of what to do in Rome!
Affordable Hostel: JO&JOE ROMA. Check Rates: Booking.com
Mid-Range Apartments Near Vatican: Relais Piazza Signoria. Check Rates: Booking.com
Mid-Range Guest House: Roma Central Guest House. Check Rates: Booking.com
Luxury Elegant Hotel: The Westin Excelsior Rome. Check Rates: Booking.com
My visit was so extraordinary that I want to share my suggestions with you, including tips on the best areas to stay in Rome.
Packing Tips For Rome In A Day
Here are some tips on packing lightly for your visit to Rome, Italy.
This unisex RFID-blocking concealed travel pouch is lightweight and comes in several colors.
These RFID sleeves would be handy in preventing identity theft.
World Traveler adapter kit can charge several devices at the same time.
This Anker high-speed phone charging battery is the exact one I carry with me on all of my trips.
My daughter gifted me this FugeTek Selfie Stick and Tripod for my birthday.
I never leave home on a trip without my Bobble filtration bottle. The 18.5-ounce size is perfect for travel.
The Bobble replaceable carbon filter ensures fresh clean water whenever and wherever you fill the Bobble.
Then this collapsible silicone foldable water bottle would work well for you.
I was never a fan of packing cubes until I tried them out! Now I am sold. These Bagail packing cubes are the exact ones I use whenever I travel.
This foldable water-resistant backpack would be great.
They are very comfortable. I also sometimes bring along my Vionic Tides flip flops. The toe post is so comfortable which makes wearing these very easy.
This cotton unisex lightweight scarf is versatile and can be worn in any season.
These unisex polarized sunglasses come in lens colors and frame designs and are extremely affordable.
If you are fond of aviator-style sunglasses these polarized aviators may interest you.
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Founded in 753 B.C., over two million people call Rome home. It is fast-paced and there are lots of amazing things to do in Rome for first-time visitors.
Quick Tips For Rome In A Day
Here are some quick tips that will enhance your one-day Rome visit and make it less stressful and more enjoyable.
It is important to stay vigilant! As with every European capital city, pickpockets and thefts run rampant.
I have personally been affected by pickpockets while traveling in Europe and know you must pay attention at all times.
Stay alert while traveling. Use bags with zippers and keep things in your front pockets. Always have an eye on your bags and other possessions.
Remember always to stay hydrated. Bring a refillable water container and refill it often!
Call your credit card company for two reasons. One, notify the bank that you will be out of the country and give them your exact travel dates.
Two, check to see if the bank charges foreign transaction fees. If it does, inquire about applying for a credit card that does NOT charge such fees.
When using an ATM in Rome be sure it is in your bank’s network. You want to avoid transaction fees when you use an ATM to withdraw money.
Also, consider withdrawing larger amounts of money, fewer times, to limit the transaction fees by your bank. Italy’s currency is the euro.
Purchase advanced tickets to Roman attractions whenever possible.
Tickets purchased online in advance are often discounted and often come with a “skip the line” perk. This will save you time.
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Have you ever visited Rome? Did you find it as exciting, bustling, and exhilarating as I did? What was your favorite part? If you have any other suggestions please leave them in the comment section below.
Feel free to adjust this one-day in Rome itinerary to your needs!
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