Weekend in Rome: What to See and Where to Go
Now that temperatures are slowly returning to bearable levels and, with the return to work routines, cities are no longer overwhelmed by tourists, Rome could be the perfect destination for a short weekend getaway. Whether you decide to reach it by car, train, or plane and whether it’s your first time here or not this article will give you some tips on how to organize your weekend in Rome so you don’t waste a single minute of these 48 hours.
Weekend in Rome: what to do if it’s your first time
If it’s your first time in Rome and you want to soak up as much as possible in 48 hours, you’ll surely want to see its most iconic landmarks the ones you’ve only admired so far in history and art books. You could dedicate your Saturday to a full immersion in Ancient Rome, with the Colosseum, the Roman Forum, and the Palatine Hill, all of which showcase the grandeur of the Roman Empire.
In the afternoon, head toward the city center for a walking tour that takes you from the Pantheon, with its extraordinary dome, to the majesty of the Trevi Fountain, without forgetting the beauty of Piazza Navona. The evening, especially in the mild climate of autumn months, is perfect for an authentic dinner in a trattoria in the Monti district, where traditional flavors meet a bohemian atmosphere.
On Sunday, you can dive deeper into the city’s spirituality and popular soul. Dedicate the morning to visiting the Vatican Museums, culminating in the breathtaking Sistine Chapel, and don’t miss the grandeur of St. Peter’s Basilica. After lunch, cross the Tiber River to immerse yourself in the authentic atmosphere of the Trastevere district. Wander through its picturesque alleys, grab a slice of pizza al taglio, and enjoy one last dinner in one of its historic taverns, where you can savor traditional Roman dishes. This route will give you a complete overview, leaving you eager to return to explore more. After all, getting to Rome is never difficult.
What to see in Rome if it’s not your first trip
Rome is a city that knows how to reinvent itself for every visitor, offering countless experiences suited both to first-time travelers and to those who want to go beyond its most famous monuments. If you’ve already seen the Colosseum, St. Peter’s Square, and the other highlights mentioned above, this itinerary is designed for you.
You could dedicate your Saturday to exploring the surroundings of the capital, renting a car in Rome for a day trip. Options are endless: visit Tivoli with its magnificent Villa d’Este and Adrian’s Villa, or head to the Castelli Romani, such as Castel Gandolfo or Frascati, to admire the landscape and taste local products in a fraschetta, a traditional inn typical of the Castelli Romani. The idea is to live a “reverse Dolce Vita”: excursion by day and relaxation in the city by night. Once back, enjoy the lively evening atmosphere in less touristy districts such as Testaccio or Pigneto, both famous for their authentic and innovative food scene.
On Sunday, return to exploring Rome’s heart, but focus on lesser-known spots. Start with a visit to the Coppedè District, an oasis of eclectic architecture that feels straight out of a fantasy movie. Then continue toward the Appian Way, the “queen of roads,” for a walk among ancient ruins and catacombs surrounded by greenery an experience that will make you feel far from the city’s hustle. In the afternoon, visit the Baths of Caracalla or lose yourself among the masterpieces of the Borghese Gallery in Villa Borghese. End your weekend with a panoramic aperitivo at the Orange Garden on the Aventine Hill, a magical place from which to admire one of the city’s most beautiful sunsets. This itinerary will give you a new, deeper perspective on Rome, unveiling its hidden beauty.
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