Rome 10 days

The iconic Flavian Amphitheatre, a testament to Roman engineering and entertainment. Explore its vast structure and imagine gladiatorial contests and public spectacles. Access to the underground Hypogeum is available with a specific ticket.

• Book tickets online in advance to avoid long queues.
• Consider a guided tour for deeper historical insights.
• The 'Full Experience' ticket includes the underground and third ring.

Wander through the heart of ancient Roman public life. Explore ruins of temples, basilicas, and government buildings in the Forum, then ascend Palatine Hill for stunning views and the legendary founding site of Rome.

• Wear comfortable shoes as the terrain is uneven.
• Bring water, especially during warmer months.
• This area is often included with the Colosseum ticket.

Perched atop Capitoline Hill, these museums house a remarkable collection of Roman sculptures and artifacts, including the equestrian statue of Marcus Aurelius. The piazza itself, designed by Michelangelo, is a masterpiece.

• The views of the Roman Forum from the museum's Tabularium are spectacular.
• Allow time to admire the architecture of Piazza del Campidoglio.

A classic Roman trattoria near the Colosseum, offering traditional dishes in a lively atmosphere. It's known for its authentic pasta, pizzas, and friendly service.

• Try the Cacio e Pepe or Carbonara.
• Can get busy, so arrive early or be prepared to wait.

Home to an immense collection of art and antiquities amassed by popes throughout centuries, culminating in Michelangelo's breathtaking Sistine Chapel. Marvel at masterpieces like the Raphael Rooms and the Gallery of Maps.

• Book tickets well in advance online to secure your spot and skip lines.
• Dress code requires shoulders and knees to be covered.
• Consider an early morning or late afternoon tour to avoid peak crowds.

The spiritual heart of the Catholic Church, this magnificent basilica is a masterpiece of Renaissance architecture. Admire Michelangelo's Pietà and Bernini's Baldacchino, and consider climbing the dome for panoramic city views.

• Entry to the Basilica itself is free, but there's a fee for the dome climb.
• Strict dress code enforced: no shorts, short skirts, or bare shoulders.
• Security lines can be long; factor this into your timing.

The grand elliptical piazza designed by Gian Lorenzo Bernini, featuring an Egyptian obelisk and two stunning fountains. It's a place for reflection and soaking in the grandeur of the Vatican.

• Enjoy the colonnades and the view towards the Basilica.
• Street performers and souvenir vendors are often present.

A charming medieval street just outside the Vatican walls, lined with artisan shops, cafes, and restaurants. It offers a more local feel compared to the immediate vicinity of St. Peter's Square.

• Look for traditional Roman cuisine.
• A pleasant area for an evening stroll.

Rome's most famous Baroque fountain, a breathtaking spectacle of mythological figures and cascading water. Toss a coin to ensure your return to the Eternal City (over your left shoulder with your right hand).

• Visit early in the morning to avoid the largest crowds.
• The fountain was fully restored and cleaned in late 2024.

An architectural marvel of ancient Rome, the Pantheon boasts the world's largest unreinforced concrete dome. Originally a temple to all gods, it's now a church and the resting place of notable Italians.

• Entry requires booking and a small fee; book ahead.
• Look up at the oculus, the only light source.
• The tomb of Raphael is located inside.

A vibrant public square built on the site of the ancient Stadium of Domitian, famous for Bernini's Fountain of Four Rivers. It's a hub for artists, street performers, and lively cafes.

• Enjoy gelato from one of the many vendors.
• Admire the church of Sant'Agnese in Agone.

A highly-regarded trattoria near the Pantheon, serving authentic Roman cuisine with a focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients. Known for its traditional pasta dishes and warm, inviting atmosphere.

• Reservations are essential, often weeks in advance.
• Their Carbonara and Amatriciana are legendary.

Home to masterpieces by Bernini, Caravaggio, Raphael, and Titian, this gallery offers an intimate art experience within a stunning villa. The sculptures are particularly renowned for their lifelike quality.

• Timed entry tickets must be booked well in advance; slots are limited.
• The museum has strict rules about photography (no flash, sometimes no photos at all).
• Your ticket typically includes a 2-hour entry window.

Explore the expansive and beautiful grounds surrounding the Borghese Gallery. Rent a rowboat on the small lake, enjoy the scenic paths, or simply relax amidst the greenery.

• Consider renting a bike or a surrey for a fun way to see the park.
• Find the 'Temple of Asclepius' for a picturesque spot.

Located at the edge of the Borghese Gardens, this terrace offers one of the most iconic panoramic views of Rome, overlooking Piazza del Popolo and stretching towards the Vatican.

• Perfect spot for sunset photos.
• Often features street musicians.

Cross the Tiber River into Trastevere, a charming district known for its narrow cobblestone streets, artisan shops, and vibrant nightlife. It's a perfect place to get lost and discover hidden gems.

• Enjoy an aperitivo before dinner.
• Visit the Basilica di Santa Maria in Trastevere.

Explore the remains of Emperor Nero's extravagant palace. The visit often includes a virtual reality component to reconstruct the opulent interiors that are largely lost to time.

• Access is via guided tour and requires booking in advance.
• The site is partially underground and requires some walking.

The ancient Roman chariot racing stadium, now a vast public park. Imagine the thunder of hooves and the roar of the crowd as you stroll through the expansive grounds.

• Great spot for a picnic lunch.
• Offers views towards Palatine Hill.

This ancient marble disc, set in the portico of the Church of Santa Maria in Cosmedin, is famously said to bite the hand of a liar. It's a fun, quick stop with a bit of Roman legend.

• Be prepared for a queue to take a photo with your hand in the mouth.
• The church itself is worth a brief visit.

Explore the vibrant Testaccio Market for local produce, street food, and artisanal products. Afterwards, enjoy dinner at one of Testaccio's renowned traditional Roman restaurants.

• The market is best visited during the day, but many restaurants in the area are open for dinner.
• Testaccio is known for its authentic 'quinto quarto' (offal) cuisine.

A fascinating church with three distinct historical layers: a 12th-century basilica, a 4th-century church below it, and a 1st-century Roman building and Mithraic temple at the lowest level.

• The lower levels require a ticket and involve descending stairs.
• The mosaics in the upper church are beautiful.

Journey into the underground burial chambers of early Christians. These ancient catacombs offer a glimpse into the lives and rituals of Rome's earliest Christian communities.

• Guided tours are mandatory and included in the ticket price.
• Photography is usually not allowed inside.
• The temperature inside is cool, so bring a light jacket.

Walk or cycle along one of the most important ancient Roman roads. Lined with Roman tombs, ruins, and umbrella pines, it's a scenic and historically rich experience.

• Rent bicycles near the start of the park for easier exploration.
• Visit the Tomb of Cecilia Metella.
• Parts of the road are cobbled and can be uneven.

A traditional Roman restaurant located near the Appian Way, offering a cozy atmosphere and authentic regional dishes. It's a great spot for a relaxed dinner after a day of exploring.

• Known for its Roman artichokes (carciofi alla romana) when in season.
• Offers a good selection of local wines.

A beautiful Renaissance villa in Trastevere, renowned for its stunning frescoes by Raphael, including the 'Loggia of Cupid and Psyche'. It offers a serene escape with exquisite art.

• Check opening days and hours, as they can be limited.
• The villa is smaller than many other museums, making it a manageable visit.

Offering sweeping panoramic views of Rome, Janiculum Hill is a favorite spot for locals and visitors alike. At noon, a cannon fires, a tradition dating back to the 19th century.

• A pleasant walk up from Trastevere.
• See the Fontana dell'Acqua Paola.
• The view is particularly stunning at sunset.

Explore one of Rome's oldest and most historically significant neighborhoods. Discover its unique culture, poignant history, and delicious Roman-Jewish cuisine.

• Visit the Great Synagogue of Rome (exterior view or tour).
• Try the Carciofi alla Giudia (fried artichokes).

A historic restaurant in the Jewish Ghetto, celebrated for its traditional Roman-Jewish dishes. Experience authentic flavors in an elegant setting.

• Reservations are recommended.
• Don't miss their signature fried artichokes.

The remarkably preserved ancient port of Rome, offering a fascinating glimpse into daily Roman life. Wander through apartment blocks, baths, theaters, and shops.

• Accessible via the Roma-Lido train from Piramide station.
• Wear comfortable shoes and bring water; it's an expansive site.
• The mosaics in the Baths of Neptune are a highlight.

Enjoy lunch at a trattoria near the archaeological site or in the modern town of Ostia. Sample fresh seafood or traditional Roman fare.

• Some options are available right outside the site's entrance.
• Alternatively, walk into the town of Ostia Antica for more choices.

Take the Roma-Lido train back to Rome, reflecting on the ancient city's bustling port.

Choose a local restaurant near your hotel or rental for a relaxed evening meal after a day trip.

• Ask your accommodation for local recommendations.
• Enjoy a leisurely pace.

Experience the vibrant atmosphere of this historic market, filled with fresh produce, flowers, cheeses, and local crafts. It's a sensory delight and a great place to find souvenirs.

• Best visited in the morning before stalls start packing up.
• Try some local delicacies like 'pizza bianca'.

Immerse yourself in Roman culinary traditions with a hands-on cooking class. Learn to prepare classic dishes like pasta from scratch and enjoy the fruits of your labor.

• Book in advance, as classes fill up.
• Many classes include a market visit to select ingredients.
• A fantastic way to experience local culture.

Explore Rome's main shopping street, Via del Corso, and its surrounding alleys. Find everything from high fashion to local boutiques.

• Look for Italian leather goods.
• Explore side streets for unique finds.

Enjoy an aperitivo in the trendy Monti district, known for its bohemian vibe and artisan shops. Follow with dinner at one of its many excellent restaurants.

• Monti has a great selection of wine bars.
• The area is charming for an evening stroll.

Originally Emperor Hadrian's mausoleum, this cylindrical fortress later served as a papal fortress and prison. Explore its history and enjoy panoramic views from the rooftop.

• Walk across the Ponte Sant'Angelo, adorned with angel statues.
• The museum inside details its varied history.

Savor a final Roman meal, perhaps revisiting a favorite dish or trying a new trattoria near your accommodation or Castel Sant'Angelo.

• Enjoy a leisurely meal.
• Consider a classic like Saltimbocca alla Romana.

Pick up any last-minute souvenirs or enjoy a final gelato and coffee at a local cafe, reflecting on your Roman adventure.

• Local markets or smaller artisan shops often have unique items.

Head to Rome Fiumicino Airport (FCO) or Ciampino Airport (CIA) for your departure.

• Allow ample time for travel and airport procedures.
• Pre-booking a taxi or shuttle can be convenient.