One-Day Itinerary in Rome: What to See in 24 Hours Starting from Our Hotel

If you have only 24 hours to explore the magnificent city of Rome and start from our hotel, located at the foot of the Aventine Hill and opposite the Testaccio neighborhood, you’re in the heart of the city—ready for an immersion into Rome’s history, art, and cuisine. This full-day itinerary will guide you through the most iconic spots, while also introducing some lesser-known yet equally fascinating places. Pack your comfortable shoes because Rome is best experienced on foot!

Morning: Ancient History and Wonders

8:00 AM – Mid-morning break with a View of Trastevere
Start your day with a delicious breakfast buffet in the Hotel Santa Prisca’s dining area. Then head to the charming neighborhood of Trastevere, just a 15-minute walk from the hotel. Enjoy a mid-morning break, perhaps with a cappuccino or fresh juice at Caffè San Calisto, where you can soak in the authentic Roman atmosphere.

9:30 AM – The Colosseum and Roman Forum
After breakfast, make your way to one of the most iconic landmarks in the world: the Colosseum. It’s about a 20-minute walk from Trastevere. Spend about an hour exploring both the interior and exterior of this majestic amphitheater. Then continue your journey through the Roman Forum, strolling among the ancient ruins of what was once the heart of the Roman Empire.

11:30 AM – Capitoline Hill and Piazza Venezia
Head up Capitoline Hill for one of the most beautiful views of the Roman Forum. The square, designed by Michelangelo, is a Renaissance gem. From there, descend to Piazza Venezia to admire the impressive Altare della Patria, a monument dedicated to Vittorio Emanuele II.

Afternoon: Baroque Rome and a Delicious Lunch

1:00 PM – Lunch at Campo de’ Fiori
After exploring the Palatine area, head to Campo de’ Fiori, a lively square about 20 minutes away on foot. Stop at one of the local restaurants for a quick lunch—perhaps a thin Roman pizza or a classic pasta dish like cacio e pepe, a staple of Roman cuisine.

2:30 PM – Piazza Navona and the Pantheon
After lunch, a short stroll will take you to Piazza Navona, one of Rome’s most beautiful and vibrant squares, with its baroque fountains, including Bernini’s famous Fountain of the Four Rivers. Nearby is the Pantheon, a 2,000-year-old architectural masterpiece. Entry is free, and the immense oculus in the dome will leave you breathless.

4:00 PM – Trevi Fountain and the Spanish Steps
No trip to Rome is complete without tossing a coin into the legendary Trevi Fountain. A 10-minute walk from the Pantheon will bring you to this iconic spot. After making your wish, continue to the Spanish Steps and climb up to the Trinità dei Monti for a stunning view of the city.

Evening: Vatican City and a Culinary Triumph

5:30 PM – Vatican City and St. Peter’s Basilica
In the late afternoon, head toward Vatican City. It’s about a 20-minute bus ride from the Spanish Steps. Here, you can visit the awe-inspiring St. Peter’s Basilica. If time allows, climb to the top of the dome for a breathtaking panoramic view of Rome.

7:30 PM – Dinner in Trastevere
End your day by returning to Trastevere, where you can enjoy a dinner at a traditional Roman trattoria. Da Enzo al 29 is one of the top choices, where you can savor authentic dishes like carbonara or coda alla vaccinara.

9:00 PM – Evening Stroll in Trastevere
After dinner, take a leisurely stroll through the cobblestone streets of Trastevere, illuminated by the warm glow of street lamps and accompanied by the sounds of street musicians. It’s the perfect time to reflect on all you’ve seen during the day and soak in the lively soul of Rome.

Conclusion: An Unforgettable 24 Hours in Rome

If you have only 24 hours to explore the Eternal City, this itinerary will allow you to experience Rome’s most iconic sites, starting from our hotel. This journey through ancient history, baroque art, and Roman cuisine will leave you with lasting memories of your time in this magical city.