When in Rome … for a day. | Italy

I wish I had more time in Rome but I was able to do it in one day, and so can you!

You are definitely going to want to get to the Colosseum early. It gets very crowded so I suggest getting there before it opens. If you are going later in the day then you will probably want to purchase your tickets online and consider the skip the line option. But, if you get there early, there is no point in purchasing your tickets ahead of time. There are also a bunch of ticket options as well as personal guides going up to you asking if you want to buy a tour ticket. Personally, my friends and I bought the cheapest ticket available which included access to the colosseum on our own, so we did a self guided tour. We had free range to walk around inside and spend as much time as we wanted. We did our own research to learn about the history and there is enough information upstairs to learn on your own. I do not regret not getting a tour. [45 minutes waiting 1 hour inside]

Also included in the ticket is access to Palatine Hill. You can spend hours here as there is much to see and a large area to cover. I recommend grabbing a quick bite to eat ahead of time in case you spend a long time here. This overlooks the Forum giving a view of one side of it. There are also plenty of places to climb up to get good overhead views. [1.5 hours]

Rome is a pretty spread out city and taxis are fairly cheap but there are lots metro stations so I would consider buying a 24 hour unlimited metro card.

There is a metro station right across the street from the Colosseum so hop on and take it to the Flaminio station. When you walk outside, cross the street to the Piazza del Popolo. There are statues and fountains to see — if you are lucky, live music to listen to. Continue on down the main street, Via del Corso for lots of coffee, shopping, and plenty of options for lunch!

Keep walking until you make it to the Spanish Steps. FYI, don’t plan on bringing your lunch to the steps — you will be asked to leave as there are strict rules enforced. The steps are crowded but there is room to sit and relax for a bit. [45 minutes]

Next, head up to the top of the steps and walk down the street a bit to Villa Borghese Gardens. This is a central park-like area with bike rentals, gelato, park benches, and music. You can easily spend hours walking around or just sitting and relaxing. There is also an overlook for a great view of the city. [1 hour]

Personally, I went to the Trevi Fountain next because it is nearby. But, if you have the opportunity I would head there later in the day so you avoid some of the crowds (there is most likely always going to be people there). We were only there for about 15 minutes: looking, taking photos, and throwing a coin into the fountain. It is something you have to do when in Rome but there is not much more to it. [15 minutes]

Try to get a snack after or a little bite to eat. I went to UJuice for a smoothie bowl that did not disappoint! But, there are plenty of options you’ll pass just walking down the street.

Next, head to the Pantheon for a historical site. Then, walk about three blocks over to Piazza Navona. This is a very open plaza with many statues, fountains, and street artists and little markets. It is a fun little area to walk around before finding dinner nearby! [30 minutes]