If you only have 2 days in Rome, it’s still possible to organize an efficient itinerary to see the Eternal City’s main highlights without missing the essentials. In this guide, I’ll share a carefully planned 48-hour Rome itinerary, designed to explore the city mostly on foot and by public transport, covering historical monuments, charming neighborhoods, and practical travel tips.
👉 Before you continue, if you’re still organizing your trip, I recommend checking out the full Rome travel guide and these practical guides to help you plan:
📌 Travel guides for your trip to Rome
📅 Rome in 2 days itinerary
🗓️ Day 1: Ancient Rome & the Historic Center
Colosseum 🏟️: start your trip early with the most iconic monument in Rome.
Roman Forum & Palatine Hill 🏛️: walk through the heart of Ancient Rome.
Piazza Venezia & Altare della Patria 🇮🇹: admire one of the city’s most monumental squares.
Trevi Fountain 💧: toss a coin to ensure your return to Rome.
Spanish Steps ⛲: climb the staircase and enjoy the views from the top.
Pantheon ⛪: one of Rome’s most impressive free-entry monuments.
Piazza Navona 🎨: end the day surrounded by fountains, street artists, and a lively atmosphere.
🗓️ Day 2: Vatican & Trastevere
Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel 🖼️: book in advance to avoid long lines.
St. Peter’s Basilica ⛪: don’t miss climbing the dome for spectacular views.
Castel Sant’Angelo 🏰: a fortress with history and a panoramic terrace.
Sant’Angelo Bridge 🌉: one of the most beautiful bridges in Rome.
Trastevere 🍷: a bohemian neighborhood full of charm, perfect for dinner.
🏛️ What to dee in Rome in 2 days
In 48 hours, the must-see attractions are: the Colosseum, Roman Forum & Palatine Hill, Trevi Fountain, Spanish Steps, Pantheon, Piazza Navona, Vatican Museums, St. Peter’s Basilica, Castel Sant’Angelo, and Trastevere. It’s a busy itinerary, but enough for a complete first impression of the city.
📍 Map of Rome in 2 days
🚌 How to get to Rome and move around
From Fiumicino Airport: Leonardo Express train (30 min) or direct bus.
From Ciampino Airport: shuttle buses to Termini in about 40 minutes.
Getting around: metro, buses, and trams, although most of this itinerary is best done on foot.
💡 Travel tips for 2 days in Rome
Book tickets online for the Colosseum and Vatican Museums.
Group visits by area to save time on transfers.
Wear comfortable shoes: you’ll be walking most of the time.
Start early to make the most of your days and avoid crowds.
🌟 Recommended tours & activities
🏛️ Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel guided tour – a must for first-time visitors.
🏟️ Colosseum, Roman Forum & Palatine guided tour – understand the history with an expert guide.
🚶 Free walking tour of Rome – perfect for orientation.
🌙 Free night tour of Rome – see the city beautifully illuminated.
⛪ St. Peter’s Basilica guided tour – one of the top experiences in the Vatican.
🛌 Where to stay in Rome
Termini area: convenient if arriving by train or plane, with cheaper hotels.
Historic Center (Pantheon, Piazza Navona, Campo de’ Fiori): ideal to be close to the main landmarks.
Trastevere: perfect for local vibes, restaurants, and nightlife.
❓FAQs about 2 days in Rome
Is 2 days enough for Rome?
Yes. While more days are ideal, 48 hours are enough to see the essentials with a well-planned itinerary.
Where to go in Rome in 2 days?
The Colosseum, Forum, Trevi Fountain, Vatican, St. Peter’s Basilica, and Trastevere should be at the top of your list.
What to do in Rome for 48 hours?
Follow this itinerary: Day 1 covers Ancient Rome and the historic center, Day 2 the Vatican and Trastevere.
Do’s and don’ts in Rome?
✅ Book tickets in advance, wear comfy shoes, and watch out for tourist scams.
❌ Don’t drink water in restaurants without checking (it can be pricey), and avoid unofficial taxis.
How not to dress in Rome?
Avoid shorts and sleeveless tops if entering churches (especially the Vatican). Dress modestly to respect local culture.
Do you tip in Rome?
Tipping is not mandatory. Rounding up the bill or leaving a couple of euros for good service is enough.
📌 Is it worth visiting Rome in 2 days?
Yes, absolutely. Even with limited time, 2 days in Rome allow you to discover its most iconic landmarks and soak in its unique atmosphere. It’s an intense yet unforgettable escape.
✈️ Don’t forget these essential items for your trip to Rome! 👜
🎒 Viral cabin backpack
Perfect if you’re traveling with hand luggage only. Meets cabin size requirements and fits almost as much as a small suitcase. Buy it here and travel light without sacrificing anything.
🧳 Packing cubes for backpack or suitcase
Make the most of your space and keep everything organized during your trip. Ideal for separating clothes, accessories, and gadgets. Get them here and organize your luggage like a pro.
📝 Related articles
👉 Once you have your dates, keep planning with these guides:
- 🏛️ Things to do in Rome
- ⛪ 2 days in Rome
- 🏺 3 days in Rome
- 🖼️ 4 days in Rome
- 🏟️ 5 days in Rome
- 🚆 Day trips from Rome
- 🎟️ Vatican museums
- ✈️ Trip to Rome
- 🏨 Best hotels in Rome
- 🏨 Hotels in central Rome
- 🏨 Cheap hotels in Rome
- 🛌 Where to stay in Rome
- 🍝 Where to eat in Rome
- 🌸 Best time to travel to Rome
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