1 Day in Rome:
Must-See Sights and Tips
Planning to spend 1 day in Rome? Well, you’re in the right place! In this guide, you will find all the best highlights of the Eternal City. This one-day Rome itinerary will walk you through famous landmarks, and historical sites. So, let’s dive into an unforgettable journey on your trip to Rome.
1 Day in Rome
Morning: Ancient Rome and the Colosseum
Start your 1 day in Rome by diving into its ancient heart. And I suggest exploring these early before the crowds and heat settle in. Arriving before 8:30 am gives you a head start and a chance to enjoy these sites more peacefully.
Stop 1: The Colosseum
Time to arrive: 8:30 a.m. is ideal.
Tickets: Pre-book your tickets online. The Colosseum is very popular, and you might miss out if you try to buy them on-site, especially in peak season. I suggest booking the tickets at least 2 weeks in advance. There are several options depending on what you’re planning to see.
Suggested visit time: Plan for around 1-1.5 hours here, depending on your level of interest.
Here’s a little bit of history. The Colosseum was built under Emperor Vespasian and completed in 80 A.D. It hosted gladiator games, mock sea battles, animal hunts, and public executions. It could seat up to 50,000 spectators in the day and was an engineering marvel of its time. Inside, you’ll see the central arena and its network of underground tunnels, known as the hypogeum, where gladiators, animals, and props were kept.
Highlights you should see inside:
– Hypogeum: these underground tunnels were crucial to the Colosseum’s performances. They allowed organisers to stage elaborate surprises for the audience.
– Upper tiers: some ticket options allow access to the Colosseum’s upper tiers, which offer views over the ancient arena and toward the Roman Forum.
– Exterior arches: Each archway was numbered, helping the thousands of spectators find their seats quickly. Look out for Roman numerals that are still visible.
Tip: The Arch of Constantine, just outside the Colosseum, has a great photo backdrop. This triumphal arch was built in 315 A.D. to honour Emperor Constantine’s victory. It’s an excellent location for a wide shot that captures both the Colosseum and the arch.
Stop 2: The Roman Forum
Just a five-minute walk from the Colosseum, you will find the Roman Forum – a must-see during your 1 day in Rome. The Forum was the city’s commercial, political, and social hub, home to markets, temples, and government buildings. Entry to the Forum is often included in Colosseum ticket packages, so you shouldn’t buy them separately.
Highlights to see:
– Temple of Saturn: Built in 497 B.C., this was one of Rome’s oldest temples and the heart of the Roman financial system, where public funds were stored.
– Arch of Titus: This arch commemorates Emperor Titus’s victory in the Jewish War. Its detailed carvings depict Roman soldiers carrying spoils from the temple in Jerusalem.
– House of the Vestal Virgins: Just off the Via Sacra, this building housed the Vestal Virgins, priestesses devoted to Vesta, goddess of the hearth.
– Basilica of Maxentius and Constantine: Once the largest structure in the Forum, this massive basilica housed judicial and public gatherings. Today, you can see its towering arches and sheer size.
Tip:
Look for informational signs: Many ruins have plaques with historical details to help you picture how each building once looked and functioned.
Bonus: Palatine Hill
If you have the energy, continue exploring by climbing Palatine Hill, adjacent to the Forum. This is where the old city’s wealthiest citizens and emperors lived and the legendary site where Romulus founded Rome.
What to see:
– House of Augustus: Emperor Augustus’s modest, colourful home has well-preserved frescoes with mythical scenes.
– Domus Flavia and Domus Augustana: These palatial buildings show the grandeur of imperial Rome, with intricate mosaics, frescoes, and courtyards.
– Panoramic views: You’ll get beautiful views over the Forum and the rest of the city from the hill’s terrace. It’s a perfect stop during your 1 day in Rome itinerary and a great spot to take a short break.
Tip: Bring a bottle of water. There’s limited shade, and the area can get warm. Wear comfortable shoes, as the path can be uneven and includes a bit of climbing.
If you have more time in the city, check this article to learn how to spend perfect 2 days in Rome: a detailed itinerary.
1 Day in Rome
Late Morning: Pantheon and Piazza Navona
After exploring Ancient Rome, move to two of the best-preserved spots, the Pantheon and Piazza Navona. These areas are only a short walk from each other.
Stop 3: Visit The Pantheon on Your 1 Day in Rome
Suggested visit time: It will take about 30 minutes to explore the interior and its unique design.
The Pantheon was initially built as a temple for all Roman gods but later consecrated as a Catholic church. Emperor Hadrian built the Pantheon around 126 A.D. It is an architectural wonder and still holds the record for the world’s largest unreinforced concrete dome—nearly 2,000 years after its construction.
Drainage System: Since the oculus is open, rainwater falls through a clever drainage system hidden in the marble floor. Tiny holes allow water to drain quickly, preventing pooling even during rainstorms.
The Oculus: The 9-meter (30-foot) hole in the dome’s centre, known as the Oculus, is both functional and symbolic. This is the Pantheon’s only source of light. It creates a stunning effect as the sun’s rays move across the floor. The Oculus symbolises the connection between the gods and the earth.
The Dome: The coffered design of the dome’s interior reduces the weight of the concrete and enhances its aesthetic appeal. This feature showcases an engineering marvel from an era without modern building techniques. The Dome will become one of the highlights of your 1 day in Rome.
Famous Tombs: The Pantheon is the resting place of several figures, including the artist Raphael and Italy’s first two kings, Vittorio Emanuele II and Umberto I.
Stop 4: Piazza Navona
Take a short walk from the Pantheon to the lively and one of Rome’s most beautiful squares, Piazza Navona. The area was originally built on the site of the Stadium of Domitian, which hosted athletic competitions. Today, the oval-shaped square is full of the energy of crowds gathered to enjoy its fountains, cafes, and street performances.
Key sights at Piazza Navona:
Fountain of the Four Rivers (Fontana dei Quattro Fiumi): This Gian Lorenzo Bernini masterpiece is the piazza’s main attraction. The fountain represents four major rivers: the Nile, Danube, Ganges, and Rio de la Plata, symbolising the continents known at the time. Each river god sits on a rocky outcrop supporting an Egyptian obelisk.
Fountain of Neptune and Fountain of the Moor: The fountains are on either end of the piazza. They were added in the 16th century.
Church of Sant’Agnese in Agone: This baroque church overlooks Piazza Navona. Borromini, Bernini’s famous rival, designed it. The church’s facade is beautifully intricate, and inside, you’ll find more examples of rich baroque artistry.
Tip: Prices can be higher at the cafes in Piazza Navona, so if you’re budget-conscious during your 1 day in Rome, consider looking for cafes on the surrounding streets.
If you have more time in the city, read this article to learn everything you need to know for the 3 days in Rome.
1 Day in Rome
Afternoon: Vatican City and St. Peter’s Basilica
After a morning of exploring Ancient Rome, head over to Vatican City. This independent city-state is the spiritual centre of the Catholic Church and home to world-renowned masterpieces by Michelangelo, Raphael, and Bernini.
Stop 5: Must Visit St. Peter’s Basilica During Your 1 Day in Rome
Entry: Free, but there may be security lines.
Suggested visit time: About 1 hour (more if you’re climbing the dome or spending extra time with the artwork).
Dress code: Shoulders and knees must be covered to enter the basilica, so bring a shawl or scarf if needed. And you can’t bring in glass water bottles, so have that in mind when visiting.
St. Peter’s Basilica is one of the largest churches in the world and a triumph of Renaissance architecture. Michelangelo, Bramante, and Bernini all contributed to its design. They created an interior that’s breathtaking in every detail. I promise you that you will be in awe when you step inside. Even if you’re not religious, St. Peter’s Basilica is impressive for its artistry and significance.
Must-see highlights inside St. Peter’s:
– Michelangelo’s Pieta: You will find this sculpture near the entrance. It’s one of Michelangelo’s most famous works. It depicts the Virgin Mary cradling the body of Jesus with exceptional detail. The Pieta is one of only a few pieces Michelangelo signed.
– Bernini’s Baldachin: Gian Lorenzo Bernini designed this massive bronze canopy (or baldachin) for the main altar. The 30-foot-tall structure is ornately decorated and perfectly complements the grandeur of St. Peter’s dome above it.
– St. Peter’s Dome: Michelangelo designed the dome, one of the basilica’s most iconic features. I strongly suggest you to climb to the dome’s top during your 1 day in Rome even if you’re short on time. It’s a different kind of experience because the stairs are bent and narrow. The climb involves 551 steps, but an elevator takes you part of the way up, leaving about 320 steps to conquer. The view from the dome is one of the best in the city.
Optional: Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel
If time allows, visit the Vatican Museums near St. Peter’s Basilica. Housing one of the world’s greatest art collections, the museums feature everything from classical statues to Renaissance frescoes. You will enjoy a visual history of Western art and civilization. Due to their vast size, a full visit to the Vatican Museums can take several hours, so plan this part carefully based on how much time you have.
Tips for visiting the Vatican museums:
– Pre-book tickets: Book tickets online in advance to avoid long lines.
– Suggested route: If you’re short on time, head directly to the Sistine Chapel and Raphael Rooms. The chapel is at the end of the museum, so prepare for a 10-15 minute walk through several museum halls.
– If you need more information, find all the top things to see in Vatican city in this guide.
Must-sees in the museums:
– Sistine Chapel: Michelangelo’s famous ceiling fresco, completed in 1512. It depicts scenes from the Book of Genesis, including the iconic “Creation of Adam.” The chapel also features Michelangelo’s The Last Judgment on the altar wall.
– Raphael Rooms: Commissioned by Pope Julius II, these rooms are decorated with stunning frescoes by Raphael, including The School of Athens.
If you are planning to stay 4 days in Rome, read this article to find the ideal itinerary.
1 Day in Rome
Early Evening: Trevi Fountain and Spanish Steps
When the evening of your 1 day in Rome approaches, head to two of the city’s most romantic and beloved landmarks: Trevi Fountain and the Spanish Steps. Both spots look especially around sunset when the lights glow warmly.
Stop 6: Must-see Trevi Fountain During Your 1 Day in Rome
Tradition: Toss a coin over your left shoulder to the fountain with your right hand to ensure you’ll return to Rome. For the superstitious, two coins mean romance and three mean marriage!
Suggested visit time: Around 20-30 minutes to soak in, take photos, and participate in the coin-tossing tradition.
The Trevi Fountain (Fontana di Trevi) is one of the most famous fountains in the world. It was designed by Nicola Salvi in 1762. It is a masterpiece of Baroque art, symbolising the sea and water. The fountain features Oceanus, the sea god, at its centre, with Tritons guiding chariot-pulling sea horses. The scene symbolises the taming of the waters, capturing the beauty and power of nature.
Th fountain is free to visit and if you’re short on budget, you can find 15 free things to see in Rome here.
The legend of the coin toss:
Legend says that if you toss a coin into the fountain, you’re guaranteed to return to Rome. This ritual has become so popular that the city collects an estimated 3,000 euros every day from the fountain and donates to charity.
Stop 7: Spanish Steps
End your one-day Rome tour with a visit to the Spanish Steps (Scalinata di Trinita dei Monti). It’s just a 10-minute walk from Trevi Fountain. The steps were built in 1725. They connect Piazza di Spagna with the Trinita dei Monti church at the top. The Spanish Steps have long been a popular gathering spot for locals and tourists, especially in the evening, when people come to relax and enjoy the view.
What to see and do at the Spanish Steps:
– Climb the steps: There are 135 steps leading to a terrace with a beautiful view over the city. The higher you go, the better the view, especially at sunset. This area is perfect for people-watching and soaking in the ambience. But remember – according to the law, nobody can sit on these steps.
– Barcaccia Fountain: You’ll find the Fontana della Barcaccia or Fountain of the Boat, at the foot of the steps. It was designed by Pietro Bernini (father of Gian Lorenzo Bernini). This fountain shape is like a half-sunken ship, symbolising the 1598 flood when a small boat washed up in the square.
– Trinita dei Monti Church: At the top of the steps, this historic church has a lovely facade and offers a quieter spot to take in the city from above. The church often hosts art and music events.
Explore the Surrounding Area
The area around the Spanish Steps, particularly Via dei Condotti, is home to some of the most high-end shops, including Italian brands like Gucci and Prada. Even if you’re not shopping during your 1 day in Rome, it’s enjoyable to window-shop and soak in the area’s vibe.
Optional sunset spots
If you’re not yet ready to end your day, consider a quick visit to one of the most popular sunset viewpoints:
– Gianicolo Hill: A bit further out, but this hill provides incredible sunset views over Rome’s skyline.
– Pincio Terrace at Villa Borghese: This terrace offers a beautiful panoramic view of the city and is a short walk from the Spanish Steps. The gardens are worth a visit as well.
In this Rome travel guide book you can find everything you might need to know about your visit.
This 1 day in Rome itinerary covers the city’s highlights, blending ancient sites and art into a compact adventure. You’ll see the Colosseum, toss a coin in Trevi Fountain, and admire the St. Peter’s Basilica—all in a single day. While the city deserves a longer stay, I hope this guide lets you experience its essence in a few hours. I hope this Rome in one-day tour inspires you to return and dive deeper into the rich history and culture.
If you have more time, consider taking a day trip from Rome to explore nearby towns and attractions. One of the most popular one is a day trip from Rome to Amalfi.
Final Tips for Making the Most of One Day in Rome
Consider combination passes:
Rome offers passes, like the Roma Pass and Omnia Card, that provide discounts and sometimes prioritise entry to multiple sites. These can be time- and cost-effective for short stays.
Use public transport to navigate quickly:
– Metro for major stops: The metro system is efficient and stops near key sites like the Colosseum, Vatican City, and the Spanish Steps. You can buy a 24-hour pass for unlimited travel for your one day in Rome.
– Buses for more specific routes: Buses cover routes not serviced by the metro. Check Google Maps or Rome’s ATAC website for directions to off-the-metro-path places like Trastevere (a great chic neighbourhood for wandering around).
– Taxi or rideshare for tight schedules: Taxi or Uber can bridge longer gaps between sites. Official taxis are white with a taxi sign on top; ensure they’re licensed to avoid extra fees.
Carry a reusable water bottle:
Rome has public drinking fountains throughout the city, providing fresh, drinkable water. Always have a reusable bottle to fill up in any spot.
Pack light snacks:
Walking the streets can be tiring, so pack light snacks like granola bars or fruit to keep energy levels up.
Wear comfortable walking shoes:
Rome’s cobblestone streets are charming but can be tough on feet. I would suggest wearing cushioned, supportive shoes rather than flats or heels.
Download your tickets and Google Maps offline:
Don’t forget to download or print your tickets in advance to avoid scrambling for Wi-Fi. Download offline maps for easy navigation, especially in areas with poor cell service.
Look up walking paths between sites:
Many key sites are within walking distance. Knowing the shortest paths (e.g., from the Pantheon to Piazza Navona) can save time.
Stay flexible:
Attractions can get busy, so be ready to adjust your plan if needed.
More to Explore
Top Things to see in Vatican city
Amalfi Day Trip from Rome
