Updated on 22/12/2025 ｜ Published on 03/11/2024
Rome is the starting point for many travellers planning an Italy itinerary. The city blends ancient imperial ruins, Renaissance architecture, papal heritage and a modern urban rhythm, making it ideal for exploring on foot. This guide is designed for first-time visitors, covering Rome’s layout, must-see attractions, a suggested three-day itinerary, transport options, city passes and recommended areas to stay. A full attraction information section is also included at the end of the article, with ticket details, maps, opening hours and further reading to help you plan your trip efficiently.
Read Before Your Trip
City Guides：Rome｜Milan｜Florence｜Venice｜Cinque Terre
Rome Articles：Colosseum｜Pantheon｜Spanish Steps｜Trevi Fountain｜Vatican Museums｜St. Peter’s Basilica
Milan Articles：Duomo di Milano｜Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II｜The Last Supper
Passes：Euro Train Pass｜Roma Pass｜Omnia Card
Colosseum：Get Your Guide｜KLOOK
Vatican Museums：Get Your Guide｜KLOOK
Duomo di Milano：Get Your Guide｜KLOOK
Florence Cathedral：Get Your Guide｜KLOOK
Understanding Rome: City Layout and Top Attractions
Rome Attractions Map
This map features the Top attractions of Rome Travel, main metro stations, and a breakfast spot I personally recommend for its stunning views.
The map is set to English by default. Simply click on the 'Enlarge Map' icon in the top right corner to switch to your preferred language!
The key attractions in Rome are concentrated around the city centre and the Vatican, with most places located close to one another. This makes the city ideal for exploring on foot, supported by short metro rides when needed. For first-time visitors, the easiest way to understand Rome is to divide it into three main areas:
City Centre Walking Area
- This includes the Spanish Steps, Trevi Fountain, Pantheon, Piazza Navona and Piazza Venezia. It is the most active visitor zone, and most landmarks can be reached easily on foot.
Vatican Area
- Home to St Peter’s Basilica and the Vatican Museums, this district forms the cultural core of a Rome trip. Queues can be long, so arriving early or using skip-the-line tickets is recommended.
Ancient Rome Area
- Centred around the Colosseum, Roman Forum and Palatine Hill, this area offers the best insight into the history of the Roman Empire. Set aside at least half a day for a proper visit.
How Many Days in Rome? 3-Day Itinerary
How many days is enough for Rome? For a first-time visit, I recommend setting aside at least 3 days to explore the classic city centre sights. You can refer to my actual itinerary to cover the must-see attractions first:
Day 1｜City Centre Walk: Cover Rome’s Classic Landmarks in One Go
- Spanish Steps → Trevi Fountain → Pantheon → Piazza Navona (Fountain of the Four Rivers) → Piazza Venezia
- Most attractions in the city centre sit within easy walking distance, making the route smooth and intuitive. It’s ideal for capturing Rome under different light conditions throughout the day, while enjoying cafés, gelato shops and restaurants tucked inside the city’s side streets.
Day 2｜Vatican Day: A Complete Religious and Artistic Experience
- St Peter’s Basilica (arrive around 6:00 for shorter queues) → Vatican Museums (lunch available in the museum café) → Castel Sant’Angelo (sunset and night view)
- Arriving early at St Peter’s Basilica significantly reduces waiting time. For the Vatican Museums, skip-the-line tickets are highly recommended to avoid long queues.
Day 3｜Ancient Rome Day: The Colosseum and Imperial Ruins
- Colosseum → Roman Forum → Palatine Hill → Depart Rome
- The Ancient Rome area focuses heavily on historical narratives. A guided tour or skip-the-line ticket is recommended to gain better insight and minimise waiting time.
Transportation from Rome Airports to the City Centre
Rome has two main international airports:
- Fiumicino Airport (FCO): The primary airport for international flights.
- Ciampino Airport (CIA): Mainly serves European low-cost carriers.
This time, I flew from Liverpool, UK, to Amsterdam via EasyJet, then took the train to Brussels, and finally flew from Brussels to Rome's Ciampino Airport with Ryanair. For the return trip, I flew from Fiumicino to Liverpool.
Taking European low-cost airlines often results in cheaper flight prices than train tickets, but strict baggage size requirements must be followed (to avoid fines), and online check-in should be done in advance (to prevent the possibility of being bumped due to overbooking).
Public Transport Within Rome City
When getting around central Rome, walking is great, but the metro is the most convenient option. Use Google Maps to get real-time public transport routes, including transfer points and directions to your destination.
The metro stations most commonly used by tourists include:
- Rome Termini：The pick up point for airport-to-city centre shuttle buses | Connections to other cities
- Spagna：Starting point for the Spanish Steps, and walking distance to several attractions in the city centre
- Ottaviano：For Vatican Museums and St. Peter's Basilica
- Colosseo：For the Colosseum and Roman Forum
You can use a credit or debit card with contactless payment functionality when travelling. A single metro ticket costs 1.5 euros (valid for one trip within 100 minutes, but you can transfer between other transport modes). Alternatively, transport passes are available for 24 hours at 7 euros, 48 hours at 12.5 euros, and 72 hours at 18 euros.
Trains from Rome to Other Italian and European Cities
When planning a trip across Italy via Rome, or traveling to Rome from nearby European cities, consider taking the train. Italy's two main train companies, Italo and Trenitalia (the national railway company), offer services to and from major cities.
- Official websites：Italo（Italian and English only）｜Trenitalia（available in Chinese and English）
- Eurail Global Train Pass for 33 European Countries
Tips：
- Italo has fewer routes and schedules, but all trains are reserved and more comfortable.
- Full-price tickets are similar to those of Trenitalia, but early bird prices can be as low as half-price!
- For flexible schedules, use Google Maps for real-time timetable checking and buy directly from the official website.
- For international routes, it's recommended to compare prices and purchase passes via platforms like Get Your Guide or KKDAY.
I booked my ticket from Rome to Florence on Italo a month in advance and got a 50% discount. Unfortunately, for my later journey from Venice to Rome, I couldn’t plan ahead and missed the early bird fare, so the ticket ended up being really expensive!
How to Choose Between the Roma Pass and OMNIA Card?
Rome offers various passes tailored to tourist needs, with the most common ones being the Roma Pass and the OMNIA Card.
Is the Rome Pass worth buying?
- Price：€36.5 for 48 hours, €58.5 for 72 hours (official adult prices for 2024).
- Included in the range：Out of the 45 attractions, you can choose 1-2 for free entry, and it also includes unlimited public transport within Rome. Other museums offer discounted entry.
- Not Included：The Vatican Museums and St. Peter's Basilica.
If you don't plan to visit museums frequently, the Roma Pass is not essential. If your focus is on the Vatican Museums, it's recommended to go for the OMNIA Card.
OMNIA Card: Ideal for visiting key attractions
- Price：72 hours for €149 (official adult price for 2024).
- Included in the range：Includes all the benefits of the Roma Pass plus admission to the Vatican Museums.
If you plan to visit major attractions like the Vatican, the Colosseum, and Castel Sant'Angelo, it's recommended to choose the OMNIA Card. Many of Rome's historical sites, such as the Roman Forum, are not fully preserved. For visitors with less historical background, it's worth considering skip-the-line tickets or guided tours when the budget allows. This saves time and offers a deeper understanding of the sites.
Is the Rome transport pass worth buying?
- Price：A single journey ticket costs €1.50 (valid for one ride on the metro within 100 minutes, with transfers allowed between other modes of transport); transport passes are available for 24 hours at €7, 48 hours at €12.5, and 72 hours at €18.
If you don't plan to purchase the Roma Pass or OMNIA Card but need to use public transport frequently, the transport pass is a good option. However, based on the 3-day itinerary I suggested earlier, it's more cost-effective to buy single journey tickets or combine them with the OMNIA Card.
Where to Stay in Rome
It is recommended to stay in a hotel near the city centre, close to the main train station (Rome Termini), as this can save you a lot of time and money on transportation and make it easier to travel to other cities and nearby attractions. Additionally, you could consider staying near St. Peter's Basilica. In the early morning at sunrise, before the crowds arrive, the basilica feels especially sacred. Being among the first to enter allows you to skip the long queues.
I stayed at MDM Guesthouse near the Vatican that day.
- Rating：8.2/10 (555 reviews)
- Check latest price:Expedia｜Hotels.com
- Pros：Just a few minutes' walk to St. Peter's Basilica
Things to Do in Rome
St. Peter's Basilica (Basilica di San Pietro)
St. Peter’s Basilica, located at the heart of Vatican City, is a must-see for anyone compiling their list of things to do in Rome. As the holiest landmark in the Catholic world and the largest church in the world, it's an essential attraction. Designed by Michelangelo, the basilica houses his famous work Pietà, Bernini’s design for the baldachin, the bronze statue of St. Peter, and the spectacular dome. Visitors can also climb 551 steps to the top of the dome for a panoramic view of Vatican City and Rome, offering a truly memorable experience among the many things to do in Rome.
- How Long to Spend at St. Peter's Basilica：
- At Least 2 Hours
- Detailed Review & Info：
- Book in Advance (Some tickets with free cancellation/discounts)
- Find on Google Map｜Official website
Vatican Museums (Musei Vaticani)
The Vatican Museums, one of the largest museums in the world, are a must-see for anyone planning things to do in Rome. Consisting of multiple sections, they house priceless artworks accumulated by the Roman Catholic Church over the centuries. It is recommended to allocate at least 4 hours for a visit, making it a significant part of any Rome itinerary.
Key highlights of the tour include the Maps Gallery, Tapestry Gallery, the bath used by the Roman Emperor Nero, Raphael’s "The School of Athens," Michelangelo's masterpieces in the Sistine Chapel, including "The Creation of Adam" and "The Last Judgment," as well as popular photo spots like the spiral staircase.
- How Long to Spend at Vatican Museums：
- At least 4 Hours
- Detailed Review & Info：
- Book in Advance (Some tickets with free cancellation/discounts)
- Find on Google Map｜Vatican Museums Official Website
Pantheon
The Pantheon, meaning "Temple of All Gods," is a must-see for anyone compiling their list of things to do in Rome. It's one of the best-preserved buildings from ancient Rome, with a history spanning over 2,000 years. Originally built in 27 BC by Agrippa, a general of Emperor Augustus, to commemorate his victory over Antony and Cleopatra, it was destroyed by fire in AD 80 and rebuilt in its current form in AD 125.
The Pantheon’s architectural features include an unsupported dome, a design technique that has allowed it to stand strong for centuries and influenced many later church buildings. It is also the final resting place of several great Italians, including Italy's first king, Victor Emmanuel II, and the renowned artist Raphael.
While the Pantheon was originally a free attraction in Rome, it now charges an entrance fee of 5 euros (as of 2024), which I personally think is a great value considering the historical and architectural significance of this incredible site.
- How Long to Spend at Pantheon：
- 1 Hour
- Detailed Review & Info：
- Book in Advance (Some tickets with free cancellation/discounts)
- Find on Google Map
Trevi Fountain (Fontana di Trevi)
The Trevi Fountain (Fontana di Trevi) is a must-see for anyone creating a list of things to do in Rome. As the largest Baroque fountain in the city, it attracts countless visitors every day. Tourists often throw coins into the fountain, following a popular legend: throwing one coin ensures a return to Rome, two coins symbolize new love or career success, and three coins wish for a happy marriage (or a successful divorce).
You can use any currency to toss into the fountain! I threw in a coin, and it just so happens that 2025 is the Jubilee year in Rome. When I visited in 2024, many attractions were under renovation, which means I'll definitely be coming back to Rome!
- How Long to Spend at Trevi Fountain：
- 1 hour (mainly because of eating Gelato…?)
- Detailed Review & Info：
- Book in Advance (Some tickets with free cancellation/discounts)
- Find on Google Map
Colosseum (Colosseo)
The Colosseum is a must-visit landmark for first-time visitors to Rome. This ancient structure could hold over 65,000 spectators and is considered one of the "Seven Wonders of the World." Imagine the roar of the crowd as gladiators battled, the spectacle of wild animal hunts, or the solemnity of public executions – all within these very walls. While the central area's wooden stage, once used for performances, has long since deteriorated, the passageways beneath, where animals and participants were held, still offer a glimpse into the Colosseum's fascinating and often brutal past, making it a powerful and memorable experience among the many things to do in Rome.
- How Long to Spend at Colosseum：
- 2 Hours
- Detailed Review & Info：
- Book in Advance (Some tickets with free cancellation/discounts)
- Find on Google Map
Roman Forum (Foro Romano)
The Roman Forum is located between the Colosseum and Palatine Hill and was the centre of urban activities in ancient Rome. It contains many famous ruins, including the Arch of Constantine, the Sacred Way, and the Basilica of Constantine. However, as many of the ruins are in a state of decay, it can be difficult to understand their historical context during your first visit. If your budget allows, it’s recommended to join a guided tour. This will truly bring these ancient stones to life and allow you to appreciate their significance among the many historical sites to see in Rome, enriching your overall experience of things to do in Rome.
- How Long to Spend at Roman Forum：
- 1 Hour
- Book in Advance (Some tickets with free cancellation/discounts)
- Find on Google Map
Palatine Hill (Palatino)
Palatine Hill, considered the oldest area of Rome with a history dating back to 753 BC, should definitely be on your list of things to do in Rome. It was once the site of palaces and residences for the upper class during the early Roman Empire. Beyond its historical significance, Palatine Hill offers an excellent vantage point for viewing the Roman Forum and the Colosseum, providing fantastic photo opportunities and a unique perspective on two of Rome's most iconic landmarks.
- How Long to Spend at Palatine Hill：
- 1 Hour
- Book in Advance (Some tickets with free cancellation/discounts)
- Find on Google Map
Castel Sant’Angelo
Castel Sant’Angelo is perhaps the most beautiful Roman landmark when viewed at night. Built by Emperor Hadrian before 1900 AD, the castle gets its name from the angel statue atop it, holding a sword. Just in front of the castle lies the Sant’Angelo Bridge, often considered the most beautiful bridge spanning the Tiber River (Tevere). Adorned with 12 angel sculptures, all designed by the master sculptor Bernini, the bridge itself adds to the magical atmosphere, making a visit to Castel Sant’Angelo a truly memorable experience among the many things to do in Rome.
The Castel Sant'Angelo National Museum houses dozens of exhibition halls, including the Papal Rooms, showcasing various armours, weapons, and renowned Italian artworks (photography is not allowed inside).
- How Long to Spend at Castel Sant’Angelo：
- 2 Hours
- Book in Advance (Some tickets with free cancellation/discounts)
- Opening Hours：
- 09:00 – 19:30
- Find on Google Map
Piazza di Spagna
Piazza di Spagna, home to the iconic Spanish Steps, is a must-see for anyone exploring things to do in Rome. These famous stairs, built in the 16th century to connect the Piazza Trinità dei Monti and the Piazza della Barcaccia, gained further renown after their appearance in the classic film Roman Holiday. Today, this iconic Roman landmark attracts countless visitors who come to snap photos and soak in the atmosphere of this historic and picturesque spot.
Since August 2019, the Roman government has prohibited tourists from sitting on historical monuments, including the Spanish Steps. The use of rolling suitcases, folding chairs, and similar items is also banned. Violators may face fines of up to 400 euros.
- How Long to Spend at Spanish Steps：
- 30 minutes
- Detailed Review：
- Find on Google Map
Piazza Venezia
Piazza Venezia is undeniably one of the must-see landmarks in Rome, and a key stop on any list of things to do in Rome. This striking white marble building, located in the heart of the city, is renowned for its grand staircase and impressive Corinthian columns. At its center stands the equestrian statue of King Victor Emmanuel II (sharing the same name as Milan’s famous Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II), flanked by statues of the goddess Victoria on a two-wheeled chariot, commemorating Italy’s first unified king.
- How Long to Spend at Piazza Venezia：
- At least 30 mins
- Find on Google Map
Piazza Navona
Piazza Navona, conveniently located near other iconic Roman landmarks like the Pantheon, is a must-see for anyone compiling a list of things to do in Rome. Originally built as a stadium for athletic events (though thankfully far less gruesome than the Colosseum), it later became Rome’s main marketplace. In 1644, Pope Innocent X commissioned a Baroque-style redesign of the square. At its center stands the famous Fountain of the Four Rivers, sculpted by Gian Lorenzo Bernini. On the western side, the Church of Sant’Agnese in Agone (as seen in the picture) was designed by Bernini’s rival, Francesco Borromini. Visitors to Piazza Navona can admire the masterpieces of these two Baroque giants in one spot, making it a truly enriching experience among the many things to do in Rome.
- How Long to Spent at Piazza Navona：
- At least 30 mins
- Find on Google Map
Rome Self-Guided Trips FAQs
Do I need to go through immigration again when traveling from Rome to Vatican City?
There is no need to go through immigration when traveling from Rome to Vatican City. There are no border checks between Rome and Vatican City, so you can easily walk or take public transportation without needing to go through customs.
What payment methods are accepted in Rome, and how much cash should I prepare?
The main payment methods include credit cards (Visa, MasterCard, American Express), debit cards (Visa Debit, MasterCard Debit), cash, and mobile payments like Apple Pay and Google Pay. Cash is less commonly used, as most payments can be completed via card or mobile payment.
What is the best season to visit Rome?
The best times to visit Rome are in the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October), when the weather is pleasant, and there are fewer tourists, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
What is the voltage and plug type in Rome?
The voltage in Rome is 230 volts, and the plug types are C and F (two round prongs). It’s recommended that travelers bring an adapter to use their electronic devices.
