Spending only a day in the eternal city is definitely not advised by any traveller, but doesn’t mean you can’t make the most out of it. Here’s what you can do in Rome in 24 hours, with a planned route to ensure efficiency. This entire itinerary could be achieved by walking!

St. Peter’s Basilica

The starting point here is the St. Peter’s Basilica, in Vatican. Technically, Vatican is an independent country and not a part of Rome, but well, it’s located right there in the middle of the city. If you’re staying far away from St Peter, take the Metro A to Ottaviano, 8 Minutes away from San Pietro.

There’s always a long queue to enter the Vatican but it progress constantly. However, queues could take up to 30 Minutes since they have a thorough security check at the entrance. Make sure you’re not dressed in shorts of any crop tops, nor those open-back blouses. They want visitors to still respect San Pietro as a religious site, which is why appropriate dress code is applied.

Once inside, you will be wowed by every single thing. Every single sculpture and every single design will make you hold your breath. I have always thought that Michelangelo’s Pietà, seen from my computer screen or magazines, was not that special. That was, until it was before my very own eyes. It’s dazzling.

Take your time inside and don’t rush your visit in San Pietro. Make sure you explore every corner there is. I planned this Rome-24-hour-itinerary with this in mind, that you’ll spend hours inside. Well, maybe not hours only inside. Go and climb to the top of the dome, and see the striking panoramic view of Rome, along with the symmetrical colonnades of St Peter’s square. Entrance to San Pietro is free, but you’ll need to pay for tickets to the dome if you opt to see it. You can take a lift for half of the climb, but you’ll need to ascend the second half by stairs. The view is definitely worth it, though. And people are understanding! Don’t feel pressured about the ascend up, just climb slowly. (Unless you’re claustrophobic, then I advise against it, since it’s quite a cramped space.)

Castel Sant’Angelo

After you’re ready to leave San Pietro, you’ll walk 5 Minutes to Castel Sant’Angelo, located right next door. Since I planned this as an itinerary consisting of free activities, I meant it for you to adore this masterpiece from the exterior, which is just as beautiful. If you want to enter Castel Sant’Angelo, ticket costs 10,50 Euros. You’ll get to see five floors, each filled with perfectly preserved frescoes and also the collection of weapons. This castle used to serve as the papal residence. The upper floor also outlooks a view of the city!

Piazza Navona

From Sant’Angelo, walk the short distance to Piazza Navona, a lively square featuring fountains, street musicians and artists. It’s where Bernini’s famous Fontana dei Quattri Fiumi stands, translating to Fountain of the Four Rivers. During the end of the 15th century up to the 19th century, this square is where the public market would be held, before it was finally moved to Campo de’ Fiori. During the end of the year, there is, however, a christmas market here! In Piazza Navona, don’t forget to visit this yummy ice-cream stall, Grom. Try a cone!

Pantheon

Next, Pantheon is only a 5 minutes strut away from Piazza Navona. Michelangelo, who was definitely not an easy man to impress, proclaimed the Pantheon to be the design of angels and not humans. It’s that beautiful. Up until may 2018, it was free of charge, but now they will start charging 2-3 Euros entrance fee. The biggest concern here is not the price, but the unavoidable long queue on the ticket office located near the Pantheon. Fingers crossed the system is going to run smooth!

Fontana di Trevi

The last destination for your day will be Trevi! Walk from Pantheon to Trevi, but, BE WARNED! This neighbourhood is full of Pizzerias and Gelaterias, along with that italian-styled restaurants you’ve always seen in pictures. Grab a quick bite here, or go for a full course, just say the word and your wish shall be fulfilled. To be sure of your choice, and make sure you get authentic pasta, check out Trip Advisor! They have this feature where you can check restaurants near you.

As you reach Trevi, it’s going to be definitely advantageous for you to return to your accommodation. Don’t worry if it’s too far to reach by foot, since Trevi is a vicinity away from the Metro station Barberini. But before you left, don’t forget to throw in a coin with your right hand through your left shoulder! Legend has it this will ensure your return to the Eternal City. And, I mean, who wouldn’t want that?

PIN IT!

Post contains affiliate links. Refer to my disclosure.