Rome

Rome is such a vibrant city, and even on a budget, you can soak in its rich history, stunning architecture, and delicious food. Here’s a fun and budget-friendly 2-day itinerary for your first visit to the Eternal City!

Day 1: Ancient Rome and the Heart of the City

Morning: Colosseum & Roman Forum

• Start your day early! Grab a quick breakfast at a local café (try a cornetto and cappuccino).
• Head to the Colosseum. You can buy a combined ticket for the Colosseum and Roman Forum online to save time and avoid long lines. The ticket is valid for 24 hours, so you can explore at your own pace.
• After the Colosseum, wander through the Roman Forum. Imagine what life was like in ancient Rome as you stroll through the ruins.

Lunch: Trastevere

• Make your way to the charming neighborhood of Trastevere. It’s a bit of a walk, but you’ll get to see more of the city!
• Grab a slice of pizza or a panino from a local eatery. Pizzeria Ai Marmi is a great budget-friendly option!

Afternoon: Explore Trastevere

• After lunch, take some time to explore the narrow, cobblestone streets of Trastevere. Don’t miss the beautiful Santa Maria in Trastevere church.
• If you’re up for it, climb up to the Gianicolo Hill for a stunning view of the city. It’s a bit of a hike, but totally worth it!

Evening: Piazza Navona & Dinner

• Head towards Piazza Navona. This lively square is filled with street performers and artists. Grab a gelato from a nearby gelateria and enjoy it while people-watching.
• For dinner, look for a trattoria in the area. Trattoria da Gino offers delicious Roman dishes at reasonable prices. Try the cacio e pepe!

Day 2: Vatican City and Historic Landmarks

Morning: Vatican Museums & St. Peter’s Basilica

• Start your day with a hearty breakfast at your accommodation or a nearby café.
• Head to the Vatican Museums. Again, it’s best to book your tickets online in advance to avoid long lines. The museums are vast, so prioritize the highlights like the Sistine Chapel and Raphael Rooms.
• After the museums, visit St. Peter’s Basilica. Entry is free, but if you want to climb to the dome for a breathtaking view, there’s a small fee.

Lunch: Vatican Area

• For lunch, find a nearby café or pizzeria. Pizzeria La Montecarlo is a great spot for a quick and tasty meal.

Afternoon: Castel Sant’Angelo & Walk Along the Tiber

• After lunch, stroll over to Castel Sant’Angelo. You can admire it from the outside for free, or if you want to go in, the entrance fee is quite reasonable.
• Take a leisurely walk along the Tiber River. The views are lovely, and it’s a great way to relax and soak in the atmosphere.

Evening: Trevi Fountain & Spanish Steps

• Make your way to the Trevi Fountain. Toss a coin in to ensure your return to Rome!
• From there, walk to the Spanish Steps. It’s a great spot to sit and enjoy the evening ambiance.
• For dinner, head to the Campo de’ Fiori area. There are plenty of budget-friendly options. Forno Campo de’ Fiori has great pizza and focaccia!

Tips for Your Trip:

• Public Transport: Use buses and trams to get around. A single ticket is quite affordable, and you can also consider walking between sites to enjoy the scenery.
• Water: Bring a reusable water bottle! There are plenty of public drinking fountains (nasoni) around the city where you can refill.
• Free Attractions: Many churches and piazzas are free to enter and explore, so take advantage of those!

Enjoy your Roman adventure! It’s a city that will capture your heart and leave you with unforgettable memories. Buon viaggio! 🌍✈️🍝