We only had one day to spend in Rome. We know that it’s not enough to explore the city but we still made full use of the time in hands. These are some of the top highlights of our one day visit to Rome in chronological order:
Explore the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel
We started our day with museums of Vatican as it is the most busiest and visited attractions in Rome. There are 54 galleries in total containing roughly 70,000 works, of which 20,000 are on display. They display works gathered by popes throughout the centuries including several of the most renowned Roman sculptures and most important masterpieces of Renaissance art in the world.
The Sistine Chapel is the official residence of the pope, in Vatican City. It is famous for its Renaissance paintings that decorate the interior, most particularly the Sistine Chapel ceiling and The Last Judgment by Michelangelo.
Words cannot justify the beauty of this place. It was absolutely breathtaking.
We recommend buying the ticket in advance to avoid long queues. Guided tours are also available at an additional cost.
St. Peter’s Basilica
One of the holiest sites of Christianity and Catholic Tradition. It is believed to be the burial place of Saint Peter, who was one of the twelve apostles of Jesus, also believed to be first bishop of Rome. The entry to the basilica is free but you have to pay a small fee for getting to the top of the building from where you can enjoy the beautiful view of the city.
Spanish Steps
The Spanish Steps are a set of steps, climbing a steep slope between the Piazza di Spagna at the base and Piazza Trinità dei Monti, dominated by the Trinità dei Monti church at the top. This is very popular among tourists as well as locals, and you will find many people sitting, relaxing and enjoying the views of Piazza di Spagna.
PS: As of August 2019 sitting on Spanish steps could now cost you $450. So be careful and don’t sit on the stairs next time you are in Rome.
Trevi Fountain
It is the largest Baroque fountain in the city and one of the most famous and beautiful fountains in the world. Tradition has it that a coin thrown in Trevi Fountain is said to ensure the comeback to Rome, two coins thrown ensure romance and three coins thrown ensure the marriage with him or her. But you have to throw the coin in a certain way. You should toss it with your right hand over your left shoulder (or left hand over your right shoulder) with your back to the fountain.
Did you know around 3000 euros is tossed in Trevi fountain everyday? The city of Rome uses the money gathered to pay for the food and upkeep of a market for the area’s poorest inhabitants.
Piaza Venzia
Piazza Venezia is the central hub of Rome. The architecture, detail and scale of this monument is amazing. It is also a great place for some beautiful pictures.
Roman Forum
The Roman Forum is a sprawling ruin of architectural fragments and intermittent archaeological excavations. It was the center of day-to-day life in Rome, the site of triumphal processions and elections; the venue for public speeches, criminal trials, and gladiatorial matches; and the nucleus of commercial affairs.
We just took a walk around the area and didn’t go inside the forum. If you have time and want to know about the history of this place we would recommend to explore the area with a guided tour.
Colosseum
We ended our day by visiting the Colosseum, which is an oval amphitheatre in the center of the city, situated just east of the Roman Forum. It is one of Rome’s most popular tourist attractions and a must visit sight in Rome. Unfortunately, we only got to see the Colosseum from outside as we were short of time. We recommend getting tickets in advance if you want to explore this historical place.
Time for some tips!
Buy tickets in advance for major attractions like Colosseum and Vatican: To avoid the lines we suggest you buy skip the line tickets in advance to save some time. Guided tour are also available if you are ready to spare some bucks!
Public transportation is excellent in Rome. You can take Metro from the city center to Vatican city. We found Bus and Metro connectivity in the city really good.
Dress Modestly: For entering into the churches, shoulders and knees must be covered. Avoid sleeveless tops, tanks, shorts etc or carry a cover-up.
Carry an Umbrella: If planning to visit in summer, carry umbrella with you. Its was so hot and humid when we visited we had to buy an umbrella while waiting in the queue.
Wear comfortable shoes: Pack a pair of comfortable shoes to walk around the city.
Carry water bottle: You can refill your bottle at various water fountain located in the city.
Service charge for dining in: You are not expected to tip at restaurants in Italy. They will charge a service fee also called Coperto for every guest. It is generally 2 -3 Euros per person.
Be mindful of your belongings
Don’t forget to try the gelato!
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