24 Hours in Rome
One of the world’s most captivating cities, Rome is more than an ancient metropolis—it’s an enormous open air museum. Of course there are the must-sees, but there are also endless treasures to discover off the beaten path. More than a simple top ten list, we’ve crafted a realistic itinerary that helps you make the most of Rome during your rail holiday. Whether it’s your first time in the Eternal City, or you’ve been before, find a full day’s worth of exceptional exploration below.
For Your First Time
Early Morning:
When in Rome, breakfast typically consists of espresso and a flaky cornetto pastry, eaten at a standup bar or on the go. Keep with local custom and grab a quick bite before you make your way to your first destination—The Vatican. One of the most opulent and enigmatic sights in the entire city, you may have the chance to see The Pope speak on Wednesday mornings in St. Peter’s Square, or Sundays at noon from his apartment. Take in the magnificent dome of St. Peter’s Basilica from inside and out to marvel at Michelangelo’s mastery.
Mid-Morning:
The Vatican Museums house 54 galleries, or sale, over nearly seven kilometers—making it one of the largest art collections in the world. Don’t miss the Instagram-worthy spiral staircase or the luxurious Tapestry Hall. Stop for some fresh air at The Pinecone Courtyard before making your way to the iconic Sistine Chapel. With the sheer number of exhibits, it’s recommended to do some research on what you’d like to see beforehand, and to download an informative audio guide.
Afternoon:
A thirty-minute walk (or short taxi ride if your feet need a break) past the towering Castel Sant'Angelo brings you back to the ancient area of the city and to Piazza Navona. Prime for people-watching, the piazza is the ideal place to soak in the exciting energy of Rome, all while enjoying a refreshing gelato or glass of wine at an enoteca. Once you’ve had some time to relax and recharge, it’s on to the Pantheon. This architectural masterpiece is one of the city’s best-preserved Ancient Roman buildings. Step inside and feel humbled under the glow of the oculus in the 2,000-year-old domed ceiling.
Afternoon/Evening:
An afternoon walk through the ancient city brings you to the trifecta of can’t-miss destinations in Rome—the Colosseum, the Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill. One ticket purchase provides entrance to all locations, so you can step into the shoes of a gladiator, and practice your oratory skills among ancient ruins. Make your way to the top of Palatine Hill for unrivalled views of the Eternal City. The sun glinting off bell towers and church domes as it sets puts any postcard to shame.
If You’ve Been Before
Early Morning:
After breakfast, take a taxi to the other side of the Tiber River and ascend Gianicolo Hill. While not a part of the famous seven hills, it does offer some of the best views of Rome, with the ancient city to the east and St. Peter’s Basilica to the north. The area is a surprisingly tranquil retreat in the heart of the city, and offers a modern history lesson on the Risorgimento that unified Italy in the 19th century. If you find yourself here around noon, you’ll witness a blast of cannon fire to mark the hour.
Mid-Morning:
A thirty-minute walk from Gianicolo Hill will take you to the Testaccio neighbourhood for an authentic look at local life. Once ancient Rome’s Emporium port where the city’s food supply arrived from the Tiber, today Testaccio retains its culinary heritage and is a foodie haven, home to some of Rome’s best restaurants. Browse the bustling food market, then settle in for an excellent lunch of paper-thin pizza with fresh ingredients, or real Roman pasta to fuel your afternoon. Stop by the cypress-lined Protestant Cemetery before you depart to view the final resting place of English poets John Keats and Percy Bysshe Shelley.
Afternoon:
Once you’ve had your fill of fine food in Testaccio, a taxi ride to the San Lorenzo district will take you past quintessential sights such as Palatine Hill and the Colosseum, to an area of Rome that isn’t often on the map for first-time visitors. San Lorenzo is a vibrant, bohemian enclave close to Termini Station that exudes an eclectic, artistic energy you won’t find anywhere else in Rome. Unique bookshops, boutiques, and bars line the streets, which just happen to be livened up with colorful, detailed works of street art. Don’t miss the chocolate factory Said, which boasts the city’s best confectionary delights.
Afternoon/Evening:
You could spend your entire 24 hours in Rome just exploring the sweeping grounds of Villa Borghese. The third-largest park in the city, several museums dot the lush villa, including the Galleria Borghese, where you can view impressive works of art by Bernini, Raphael, and Caravaggio. English influence is all around, from immaculate gardens to a replica of Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre. Keep an eye on the enchanting water clock and time a stroll to the elegant Pincio Terrace to take in a sunset over Piazza del Popolo. Ample dining opportunities abound for supper in Rome. Unwind surrounded by authentic Italian atmosphere at Girarrosto Toscano, or add international flair to your day of discovery at Duke’s.
