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24 hours in Rome

The city of Rome is one big treasure trove full of ancient buildings and spectacular monuments. At the same time it's a thrilling, modern city with amazing Italian food. There is almost too much to see and do if you only have 24 hours in Rome. And that's where our expert tips come in handy!

Fountain on Piazza Navona | 24 hours in Rome

8AM // Apples and cappuccino

Get up and get going!

Kick off your Roman holiday at the Campo de Fiori, where a fruit market takes place every morning. Stuff your backpack with fresh fruit, because you've got a long day of sightseeing ahead of you!

Head north to find the rectangular Piazza Navona, with its three beautiful fountains. Grab a morning cappuccino and have a good look at Bernini's Fountain of the Four Rivers. You'll be seeing this sculptor's work all over Rome!

Pantheon in Rome | 24 hours in Rome

9AM // Marble monuments

Witness ancient and recent history

Walk east to find the circular Pantheon, where a variety of gods was worshipped in Roman times. Since the 7th century, it's been in use as a Catholic church. Keep going to find the famous Trevi Fountain just a few streets away.

Turn south towards the Altare della Patria, a huge monument built for Victor Emmanuel II, first king of a united Italy. Decide for yourself whether it's a magnificent masterpiece or a marble monstrosity.

Arch of Septimius Severus | 24 hours in Rome

11AM // Centre of the world

Explore the Roman forum

You could spend a day at the Forum Romanum, exploring ruins of the Roman world. Check out the temples and well-preserved Arch of Septimius Severus. Next, climb Palatine hill where the Roman emperors built their palaces.

Compare the modest House of Augustus to the Imperial Palace complex, extended greatly over time. Look down the hill to see the outlines of Circus Maximus, the chariot racing stadium that once held 150,000 visitors.

Colosseum in Rome | 24 hours in Rome

1PM // Bread and circuses

Marvel over the Colosseum

Just east of Palatine hill stands the magnificent Colosseum, the largest amphitheatre ever built. Your ticket from the Forum Romanum gives you direct access, so you can simply skip the long queues waiting outside!

The Colosseum was used for gladiator fights, animal hunts and staged battles - including naval battles. When you're done taking in the history of this place, it's time to treat yourself to some pasta and gelato for lunch.

Castel Sant Angelo | 24 hours in Rome

3PM // Next steps to take

Cross the bridge of angels

You're doing quite a bit of walking today, so best take the metro from Colosseo to Spagna. You'll end up right at the top of the Spanish Steps, giving a good view of the Piazza di Spagna and its fountain below.

Head west towards the Tiber and follow it downstream to the Ponte Sant'Angelo. Cross the bridge to reach Castel Sant'Angelo. Built originally as a mausoleum for emperor Hadrian, it was later used as a Papal fortress and prison.

St. Peter's Square | 24 hours in Rome

4PM // Treasures of the Vatican

See holy highlights

Head west to Vatican City, Rome's most popular tourist destination. Queues will start forming here as soon as the sun is up. It's often less crowded in the afternoon, but you may still want to consider booking your ticket in advance.

The appeal is easy to understand, as you stand in the circular square, looking up at the majestic St. Peter's Basilica. The world-famous Sistine Chapel and the art collection of the Vatican Museums are worth the wait!

Terraces in Rome | 24 hours in Rome

6PM // When in Rome...

Go dining and dancing

The best food in Rome is not usually found near the major highlights. A good exception to that rule is restaurant Armando Al Pantheon. Book a table here and end your tour of Rome right where you started!

If your feet are still up for it, there's a great deal of clubbing going on in Rome! Need to catch an early train? No problem! Leave your luggage at Termini station, go dancing in nearby Vicious Club and sleep on the train!

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