How to Spend 24 Hours in Rome | Best Places to Visit in Italy

July 9, 2019 by Emme

I might be a little biased when I say Rome is a magical place. It was the first place I ever visited in Italy and it quickly became one of my favourite cities in the world.

If you have a whole week, or only a few days, it can be a challenge to prioritize what you want to see and do when there’s so much! I feel you, and I’m here to help with a list you can do in less than 24 hours…

Firstly, the Colosseum is an ABSOLUTE MUST, even if you don’t go in (which I wouldn’t recommend unless you are visiting in low season or love hot and sticky crowds) it really is something to marvel over. I’d recommend doing a little research before your trip if you’re not familiar with the history, it will blow you away.

Another place (albeit very touristy but amazing all the same) that I would recommend seeing are the Spanish Steps and the Fontana di Trevi, which are conveniently only a 5-10 minute walk away from each other. I don’t think I’ve ever seen the fountain not busy, but it’s worth a visit all the same. Make sure you throw a coin in – which means, according the legend, you’ll return to Rome!

The Vatican city is the final stop on my list of must-do’s. Just standing outside the cathedral is something, but if you get the chance, make sure to climb up the winding staircase to the top of the Basilica. The sight from the top is breathtaking and Michelangelo’s work on the Sistine Chapel ceiling is like nothing you’ve seen before.

Once you’ve had your fill of the above, just go and get lost! Some of the best places I found in Rome were the ones on the cobblestone backstreets, which I never would have found if I were following a map. Almost every corner you turn in the city is full of beauty and culture, so take advantage of some of the best museums and restaurants (and pizza, pasta and gelato) right on your doorstep.

❤ Emily