Rome a week

The iconic Flavian Amphitheatre, a marvel of Roman engineering and architecture. Explore its massive scale and imagine the gladiatorial contests and public spectacles held within its walls. The underground Hypogeum offers a fascinating glimpse into the backstage mechanics of ancient entertainment.

• Book tickets online well in advance, especially for the Hypogeum tour.
• Consider a guided tour for deeper historical insights.
• Wear comfortable shoes as there's a lot of walking.

Wander through the ruins of the ancient city's political and social heart. Palatine Hill offers stunning views and the legendary birthplace of Rome. Discover temples, basilicas, and triumphal arches that tell the story of the Roman Republic and Empire.

• Your Colosseum ticket usually includes entry here.
• Bring water and sun protection, as there's little shade.
• Start with Palatine Hill for panoramic views before descending into the Forum.

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

• The Tabularium offers a fantastic view over the Roman Forum.
• Look for the original statue of Marcus Aurelius.

Cross the Tiber River into the charming Trastevere district, known for its narrow cobblestone streets, ivy-clad buildings, and lively atmosphere. It's the perfect place for an evening stroll and dinner.

• Enjoy aperitivo at a local bar before dinner.
• Try traditional Roman dishes like Cacio e Pepe or Carbonara.

Home to one of the world's greatest art collections, including Michelangelo's breathtaking Sistine Chapel ceiling and 'The Last Judgment'. The museums span centuries of artistic achievement, from Egyptian antiquities to Renaissance masterpieces.

• Book tickets online months in advance to avoid extremely long queues.
• Consider an early morning or late afternoon tour to escape the peak crowds.
• Dress modestly (shoulders and knees covered) as it's a religious site.

The largest church in the world and a pinnacle of Renaissance architecture, housing Michelangelo's Pietà and Bernini's Baldacchino. Climb to the top of the dome for unparalleled panoramic views of Rome.

• Entry to the Basilica is free, but there's a fee for the dome climb.
• Security lines can be long; factor this into your timing.
• Dress code is strictly enforced.

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

• The bridge leading to the castle, Ponte Sant'Angelo, is adorned with Bernini angel sculptures.
• Check for temporary exhibitions held within the castle.

Located just north of the Vatican, Prati offers a more local Roman experience with elegant streets, upscale shopping, and excellent restaurants. It's a great spot for a relaxed dinner after a day of sightseeing.

• Look for 'pizza al taglio' (pizza by the slice) for a quick and delicious bite.
• Enjoy a gelato from one of the many artisan gelaterias.

Rome's most famous Baroque fountain, a stunning display of mythological figures and cascading water. Toss a coin over your left shoulder with your right hand to ensure your return to Rome. Recently restored, it gleams under the Roman sun.

• Visit early in the morning to avoid the thickest crowds.
• Be mindful of pickpockets in crowded areas.

A former Roman temple, now a church, renowned for its magnificent dome and oculus, an opening to the sky. It's an architectural marvel that has stood for nearly two millennia, housing the tombs of Italian kings and Raphael.

• Entry may require a small fee or booking, check current regulations.
• Stand directly under the oculus to appreciate its engineering.
• Visit during rain to see the unique water drainage system.

A vibrant oval piazza built on the site of the ancient Stadium of Domitian. It's famous for Bernini's Fountain of Four Rivers and lively street artists and performers.

• Enjoy a coffee or gelato at one of the cafes lining the piazza.
• Admire the church of Sant'Agnese in Agone.

This bustling square transforms from a lively market during the day to a popular spot for evening drinks and dining. It's known for its statue of Giordano Bruno and its vibrant nightlife.

• Explore the market stalls if visiting earlier in the day.
• Many restaurants offer outdoor seating, perfect for people-watching.

Housed in a stunning villa, this gallery boasts masterpieces by Bernini, Caravaggio, Raphael, and Titian. It's an intimate museum experience with timed entry slots.

• Booking is mandatory and slots fill up quickly; book weeks in advance.
• The collection is relatively small, making it manageable for a focused visit.

Adjacent to the gallery, these expansive gardens offer a tranquil escape with shaded paths, fountains, and serene lake. Rent a rowboat or simply enjoy a leisurely stroll.

• Rent bikes or a pedal cart to explore the large park.
• Find the 'Temple of Asclepius' by the lake.

Located at the edge of the Borghese Gardens, this terrace offers breathtaking panoramic views over Piazza del Popolo and the city skyline, especially beautiful at sunset.

• A perfect spot for photography.
• It's a popular spot, so expect company.

Climb the famous Spanish Steps for iconic city views and explore the high-end designer boutiques along Via Condotti. The area is beautifully lit at night.

• Enjoy window shopping even if not purchasing.
• The Barcaccia fountain at the foot of the steps is a masterpiece.

A vibrant covered market in the Testaccio neighborhood, offering a fantastic array of fresh produce, artisanal foods, and street food stalls. It's a great place to sample local delicacies.

• Try Trapizzino, a popular street food invention.
• Look for fresh pasta, cheeses, and cured meats.

Explore one of Rome's oldest and most atmospheric neighborhoods, rich with history and culinary traditions. Sample the famous Carciofi alla Giudia (fried artichokes) and other Roman-Jewish specialties.

• Visit the Great Synagogue and the Portico d'Ottavia.
• Many excellent trattorias are located here.

Immerse yourselves in Italian cuisine with a hands-on pasta-making class. Learn the secrets of creating fresh pasta from scratch and enjoy the fruits of your labor, often paired with local wine.

• Book in advance, as popular classes fill up.
• Choose a class that includes a meal afterward.

A fascinating church with layers of history, featuring a 12th-century basilica above a 4th-century church, and below that, a 1st-century Roman house and Mithraic temple. It's a journey through time.

• The lower levels are particularly atmospheric.
• Don't miss the stunning mosaics in the upper church.

One of the earliest and most important Roman roads, lined with ancient tombs, monuments, and pine trees. Rent bikes to explore its length and visit sites like the Catacombs.

• Rent bicycles near the entrance to the park.
• Wear comfortable shoes and bring water.
• Consider visiting the Catacombs of Callixtus or Domitilla (requires separate ticket).

The official cathedral of Rome and the seat of the Pope as Bishop of Rome. It's one of the four papal basilicas and a significant site of Christian history.

• The Holy Door, closed since Jan 2026, is a major feature.
• Don't miss the adjacent Lateran Palace and Scala Santa (Holy Stairs).

Enjoy serene views over Rome from the Orange Garden (Giardino degli Aranci). Nearby, peek through the Knights of Malta Keyhole for a perfectly framed view of St. Peter's Dome.

• The keyhole view is a classic Roman secret.
• It's a peaceful spot for reflection.

Enjoy a final Roman lunch in the vicinity of the ancient Circus Maximus, perhaps a trattoria offering classic Roman fare.

• Look for restaurants away from the main tourist paths for better value.
• Consider a place with outdoor seating if weather permits.

Depending on your flight schedule, engage in some last-minute souvenir shopping or relax at a cafe, reflecting on your Roman adventure.

• Markets like Campo de' Fiori or smaller artisan shops offer unique finds.
• Enjoy a final gelato or coffee.