Best things to do in Rome in 1 day

Rome is a city with a rich history, culture, and delicious food that is worth exploring for several days. However, if you have only one day to spend in the Eternal City, don’t worry. With proper planning, you can experience some of Rome’s best attractions and soak up the city’s atmosphere in just 24 hours. Here are some of the best things to do in Rome in 1 day.

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Explore the Colosseum and the Roman Forum Start your day early and head to the Colosseum, one of Rome’s most famous landmarks. This ancient amphitheater was the site of gladiator battles, animal hunts, and public spectacles. Spend some time exploring the Colosseum’s interior and exterior, then walk over to the Roman Forum, a sprawling complex of ruins that was once the center of ancient Rome. You can easily spend a couple of hours here, admiring the temples, basilicas, and triumphal arches.

Trevi Fountain in Rome
Trevi Fountain in Rome

Throw a coin in the Trevi Fountain No trip to Rome is complete without a visit to the iconic Trevi Fountain. This stunning Baroque masterpiece features a grand fountain with a statue of Neptune in the center, surrounded by tritons and sea horses. According to legend, if you throw a coin over your shoulder into the fountain, you are guaranteed to return to Rome someday. So don’t forget to make a wish and toss a coin!

Eat gelato at Giolitti When in Rome, you must indulge in some authentic Italian gelato. Head to Giolitti, one of the city’s oldest and most famous gelaterias, and sample some of their delicious flavors. From classic favorites like pistachio and stracciatella to more unusual options like ricotta and fig, Giolitti has something for everyone.

Pantheon in Rome
Pantheon in Rome

Visit the Pantheon Make your way to the Pantheon, one of Rome’s most impressive ancient buildings. This former temple is a masterpiece of Roman engineering, with a massive domed ceiling and a stunning interior. Spend some time admiring the oculus, a circular opening in the dome that lets in natural light, and marvel at the intricate marble details.

Enjoy pizza at Da Baffetto No trip to Italy is complete without trying some authentic pizza. Head to Da Baffetto, a cozy pizzeria near the Pantheon, and indulge in some delicious pizza. Whether you prefer classic margherita or something more adventurous like spicy salami and artichokes, Da Baffetto has a wide selection of mouth-watering pies.

Stroll through Trastevere End your day with a leisurely stroll through Trastevere, one of Rome’s most charming neighborhoods. This historic district is filled with narrow cobblestone streets, colorful buildings, and plenty of bars and restaurants. Take a relaxing walk along the Tiber River, admire the beautiful architecture, and soak up the lively atmosphere.

With this guide, you can make the most of your time in Rome and experience some of the city’s best attractions in just one day. Of course, there are many more sights to see and places to explore, so if you have more time, don’t hesitate to stay a little longer in the Eternal City.

With just one day to spend in Rome, you’ll want to make the most of your time. Start with the iconic Colosseum and Roman Forum, then head to the Pantheon and Trevi Fountain. After lunch, explore the Vatican Museums and St. Peter’s Basilica, and end your day with a stroll through the charming Trastevere neighborhood. Follow our guide to experience the best of Rome in just one day.

About the author

An adventurer and theme park enthusiast at heart, Mark specialises in family travel content creation, and is a passionate and award-winning travel writer and videographer.