Visit Rome in 2 days

Where to Stay in Rome

Location matters in Rome because the city you’ll explore in two days is compact but layered: narrow alleys, piazzas and monuments sit cheek-by-jowl, and choosing the right base turns rushed sightseeing into relaxed wandering. Aim to be within easy reach of the Pantheon and the little Bernini elephant and obelisk at Piazza della Minerva so you can drop into those treasures early or late, before the crowds. A well-placed room lets you enjoy the atmosphere at dawn and return for a siesta without losing time on transit.

Rome is organized around the ancient core and the Tiber. The most useful concept is the historic center — the area between the river and the main monuments — where walking often beats the bus for speed and charm. Streets are cobbled and direct routes can be deceptive, so expect pleasant detours through piazzas. Public transport (metro lines, buses and trams) radiates outward: Line A serves the Vatican/Prati side and the Spanish Steps area, while Line B and surface routes connect the Colosseum/Altare della Patria corridor. Remember many tiny streets have limited vehicle access, so plan walking time.

For two days, target neighborhoods that keep Castel Sant'Angelo, the Pantheon and the area around the Altare della Patria within comfortable reach. The Centro Storico around the Pantheon and Piazza Navona offers immediate access to the Elephant and Obelisk and an evening buzz. Prati, just across the river from Castel Sant'Angelo and the Vatican, is calmer and very convenient for museums and transport. If you want to be a little closer to the Altare della Patria and major bus routes, the areas toward Monti or near Piazza Venezia put you a short walk from those monuments without losing character.

Transport tips: plan to walk as your first mode, use buses or Line A for longer hops, and grab a taxi for late arrivals or heavy luggage. Beware of the ZTL (limited-traffic zones) when driving into the center. Many central streets are pedestrianized at certain hours; if you’ll be picked up by car, arrange a nearby meeting point to avoid fines.

When choosing a place, prioritize walking distance, a quiet street, and practical details like an elevator or air conditioning. Look for flexible cancellation and clear directions about stairs and ZTL access. With a central, well-located base you’ll trade frantic transfers for leisurely espresso stops between the Elephant and Obelisk, Castel Sant'Angelo and the grand silhouette of the Altare della Patria—exactly the relaxed two-day Rome you want.

Getting Around Rome

Rome’s public transport feels complicated until you try it — then it’s delightfully straightforward. The city is served by ATAC, an integrated network of Metro lines, bus routes and tram lines that link the big sights with the neighborhoods you want to explore. Many of the places tourists visit — from the Bernini Elephant and Obelisk at Piazza della Minerva to the atmospheric lanes around the Pantheon and the riverside walk by Castel Sant'Angelo — are an easy hop by bus or, better yet, a lovely walk, so the system really complements how you’ll want to move around. 🚇

Practical tip: buy a ticket before boarding at a newsstand, Tabacchi, or the ticket machines, or use apps like MyCicero or the ATAC app. The common single integrated ticket (known locally as a BIT ticket) lets you change within roughly 100 minutes and costs around €1.50; day and multi‑day passes (Roma 24/48/72) are available and cost roughly €7/€12.50/€18 respectively, with a weekly option if you’re staying longer. Always validate on the bus’s yellow machine or at the metro turnstiles — inspectors do check and fines are real 🎫.

When planning a route, don’t underestimate Google Maps — its transit directions in Rome are surprisingly reliable and show whether a metro or bus is faster. I also keep MyCicero on my phone for buying and storing tickets, and I glance at live updates for strikes or delays. If you’re unsure, ask at a newsstand or a station ticket window; Romans are used to helping lost tourists and a friendly “Scusi, come arrivo a…?” will usually get you clear directions. 🗺️

To save money, walk the historic center whenever possible — the distance between the Pantheon, the piazzas and the small churches is often shorter on foot than by public transport. Buy a 24‑ or 48‑hour pass if you plan several metro/bus rides in a day; otherwise the single BIT ticket is perfect. Avoid late-night taxis from major sights if you can; public transport or a pre-booked transfer tends to be cheaper and less stressful.

I remember one sunny afternoon when we wanted to go from Castel Sant'Angelo to the Pantheon: instead of waiting for a bus we walked across Ponte Sant'Angelo, cut through the tiny lanes, and emerged at Piazza della Rotonda in under 20 minutes — more scenic and cheaper than any ride. On a rainier day we hopped the bus 64 toward the area, tapped our validated ticket, and still arrived feeling like locals who know how to string a few short rides and pleasant walks together. Once you try that mix, you’ll find Rome’s public transport feels like a friendly guide rather than an obstacle.

What to Pack for Rome

Two days in Rome is a delicious sprint: churches, piazzas, sculptures and memorials back-to-back. Expect long days on cobblestones, crowds around landmarks and a few dress-code moments at churches. I’ve done days where I was out for 10+ hours and once walked nearly 15 miles in one long loop from Trastevere to the Colosseum — so I pack for comfort, security and quick charging.

1. Comfortable walking shoes (required): Bring a well-broken-in pair — think New Balance 574 or Ecco Soft 7-style leather sneakers. I learned the hard way: new shoes + cobblestones = blisters after 7 miles. Good soles and arch support kept me exploring all day; you’ll thank yourself after 10+ hours of standing in front of basilicas and monuments.

2. Cross-body bag: Pickpockets are a reality near Termini and big sights, so use a secure cross-body with zip closures (worn in front). Once in Piazza Navona a hand brushed my backpack; because my phone was zipped in front, nothing happened. Keeps passport, cards and camera handy and safer than a loose backpack.

3. Weather-appropriate clothing for Rome: Layers and a light scarf are gold. In summer I wore breathable linen and a thin scarf to cover shoulders at St. Peter’s; in spring/fall a light waterproof jacket saved me from chill and a drizzle. Churches often require covered shoulders/knees, so pack at least one long skirt or lightweight wrap.

4. Power adapter (Italy Type C/L, 230V): Hotels often have odd plug layouts and limited sockets. I once had my camera and phone both needing juice and only one outlet — a small universal adapter with dual plugs fixes that. Why: you’ll be using maps, tickets and taking photos all day.

5. Power bank: A 10,000–20,000 mAh power bank is a must when you’re out for 10+ hours. My phone died mid-Colosseum visit once; I missed tickets and had to queue again. Carry one that can recharge a phone twice so you can keep maps, photos and contact apps alive.

6. Optional — Refillable water bottle & compact umbrella: Rome’s nasoni (drinking fountains) are everywhere, so a small refillable bottle saves money and keeps you hydrated on long walking days. Also tuck a compact umbrella for sudden showers in shoulder seasons — I’ve been grateful for both during an unexpected spring downpour near the Pantheon.