Rome in a day: your guide to the Eternal City

Are you thinking about booking flights to Rome? Soak up the essence of the city with our whirlwind 24-hour guide. From an early morning espresso near the Pantheon to a late-night gelato by the Trevi Fountain, this is Rome in its purest form.

Picture the scene. As you stand near the Colosseum, watching an epic sunset illuminate its craggy outline, you’ll find yourself marvelling at the magic of Rome. You’ve finally arrived in the Eternal City—here, every corner holds promise. The lively chatter in a nearby piazza calls out to you, the deep-fried aroma of supplì (traditional Roman street food) mingles with the crisp, evening air and you realise—this isn’t the Rome you imagined. It’s even better. Come with us as we dive under the surface to find some amazing things to do in Rome.

Piazza di Spagna, Rome, Italy

Morning: wake up like a Roman

Begin your day with a strong coffee, well-needed fuel for your journey through Rome. Head to Caffè Sant’Eustachio, near the Pantheon (one of Rome’s top tourist spots); this historic café serves some of the best espresso in the city. Order a ‘caffè’ and sip it standing at the bar. (See? You’re already a local.) The rich, aromatic coffee is the perfect wake-up call.

Caffeine secured, take a leisurely stroll around the corner to the Piazza Navona, one of Rome’s most charming squares—and a place in which the rhythm of the city comes alive. As you approach, the magnificent Baroque architecture surrounds you, with ornate buildings framing the square; take a moment to pause and admire their intricacy.

At the heart of it all is the Fountain of the Four Rivers, a stunning masterpiece by Bernini that illustrates the four great rivers of the world. Piazza Navona is more than just a visual feast; it’s a hub for local artisans, craftspeople and street performers too. As you listen to the soft strumming of a guitar, take a deep breath: you’ve only just begun your adventure in Rome.

Late morning: hidden gems and ancient wonders

It’s time to stray a little further off the beaten track, so put down your Rome travel guide and make your way to the Quartiere Coppedè. This eclectic neighbourhood, designed by architect Gino Coppedè, features a mix of Art Nouveau, Baroque and ancient Greek styles. It’s a hidden architectural gem, away from the usual tourist trails.

Next, head to the Basilica di San Clemente, a short walk from Rome’s spectacular Colosseum. This fascinating church is built upon layers of history, with its 12th century mosaics, 4th century basilica and even a 1st century Roman house beneath. It’s a remarkable journey through time and doesn’t attract the kind of crowds that the Colosseum does.

Lunch: the flavours of Testaccio

Feeling peckish? Make your way to Testaccio, an area known for its authentic Roman cuisine and food markets. Felice a Testaccio is a local institution renowned for its incredible pasta dishes. Indulge in the delicious flavours of guanciale (an Italian cured meat made from pork cheek), fresh tomatoes and pecorino cheese.

Once the heart of Rome’s traditional working-class community, Testaccio has retained its charm while evolving into a foodie paradise. The Mercato di Testaccio is brimming with local produce, artisanal cheeses and street food delights. The aroma of frying porchetta wafts through the air, tempting you to sample this delicious roast pork sandwich.

Testaccio’s rich history, marked by its ancient slaughterhouse and the iconic Monte dei Cocci (a hill made of broken pottery) adds a unique character to this neighbourhood—a place where past meets present.

Afternoon: art, culture and history

Post-lunch, make your way to Gianicolo Hill, a hidden gem that offers one of the best panoramic views of Rome. The city will unfurl before you, revealing a skyline dotted with domes, spires and the meandering Tiber River. This vantage point is a favourite among locals and visitors alike; take a moment to breathe it all in and snap a pic or two. (For more photographic inspiration, read our article on Rome’s most Instagrammable spots.)

Next, dive into the world of art and culture at the Galleria Borghese, an exquisite museum housed in a villa within the Borghese Gardens. Surrounded by manicured gardens and pathways, it serves as a tranquil escape from the urban hustle.

Inside, you’ll find a collection of masterpieces that bring Rome’s incredible artistic heritage to life. Marvel at the lifelike sculptures of Bernini that almost seem to breathe and lose yourself in the canvases of Caravaggio; his use of light and shadow transformed the art world. As you wander through the curated galleries, each room reveals a new treasure, from Renaissance art to Baroque splendour. Be sure to book your tickets in advance for this popular cultural gem.

Rome is not the only Italian destination world-renowned for its art and sculpture: Florence (just 1.5 hours from Pisa by car) is home to many Renaissance masterpieces, while Venice is a treasure trove of arts and crafts. Book a flight to one of these incredible art cities to explore them in person.

Evening: traipsing around Trastevere

Dinner will be served in Trastevere, a lively district with Bohemian vibes, known for some of the best restaurants in Rome. Osteria Da Fortunata is a local favourite for traditional Roman pasta dishes. Try their ‘cacio e pepe’—a simple yet sensational combination of cheese and pepper.

If you’ve had your fill of pasta (is that possible?) wander the cobblestone streets on a quest for freshly baked pizza. You won’t search long: Pizzeria Ai Marmi is renowned for traditional Roman-style pizza with a particularly crispy crust.

Before your meal, wander into Trastevere’s Basilica di Santa Maria, one of the oldest churches in Rome; its stunning mosaics tell stories of the city’s history.

Night: Gelato and la dolce vita

End your busy day with a stroll to the Trevi Fountain; it’s a well-trodden path but the fountain is undeniably magical at night. Toss a coin into the water and make a wish as you try a gelato from Giolitti, one of the city’s oldest gelaterias.

The magic of the Eternal City lies in its ability to surprise you at every turn. There are so many things to do in Rome that will help you dive deeper into the city’s soul—from the rich aromas of street food to the buzz of local markets.

Why not take the leap and explore the city for yourself? Book your flights to Rome today to savour the culture, food and history of the Eternal City for yourself!