Two Days in Rome

You could spend weeks in Rome, and still have so much history and culture left to see — a single museum can be savoured for an afternoon, while the inexpensive nightlife promises tourists plenty of options for every budget. But if you’re short on time, with just two days to see the best this amazing city has to offer, these are the must see places.

The first day should be spent exploring old Rome, once the world’s centre of power. The three most important sites are the Colosseum, the Circus Maximus, and the Roman Forum. A tour guide can give a historical background and help you imagine the now dusty ruins in their former glory. If you are watching your euro, you can find students who give free tours (a marketing bait to get you to sign up for other tours — but you can always give a tip and move on). The tour will take you through the Arch of Titus, the Temple of the Vestial Virgins, the Pantheon, the Imperial Forum, the Temple of Julius Caesar, among other things. End the day with a visit to the Trevi Fountain, where you can throw the ceremonial coin to ensure that you visit this graceful city once again. Then walk by the Spanish Steps and have dinner at one of Rome’s memorable restaurants.

On the morning of day two, visit the acclaimed museum of art, the Villa Borghesse (reserve tickets ahead of time). By the time you’re done, the crowds in front of the Vatican have dwindled, and you can explore this famous religious site (and its magnificent art work) without wasting too much of your day waiting in line. Start your tour of the Vatican with a visit of the Museum and Sistine Chapel, which have shorter hours than the Church of St. Peter. The Raphael Rooms have over 100 sections to see — a truly amazing sight — but if you are running late, skip this exhibit so you can see more of the Vatican. End the tour by climbing the steps of the cathedral, where you’ll be rewarded with a fantastic view of Rome.

The day over too quickly, have dinner at the Colosseum for one last taste of the city — and dream of the day when you will return.