Explore Rome City Centre in a Day with this guide to must-see sights, top attractions, and tips for making the most of your time in the Eternal City. Whether you’re arriving from Civitavecchia to Rome on a cruise stop or exploring as part of a longer Rome itinerary, this Rome travel guide has everything you need.
Scroll down for a walking tour of Rome’s must-see spots: Rome City Centre Walking Tour.
We visited Rome for a day during a port stop at Civitavecchia on an MSC cruise, giving us plenty of hours to explore both the city and Vatican City.
If you’re looking for Rome tourism advice, practical Rome tips, and a list of the best places in Rome to visit in a day, keep reading!
Rome City Centre: Top Attractions You Can’t Miss
The Rome city centre is packed with iconic landmarks and hidden gems that every traveller should experience. Some of the top places to visit in Rome include the ancient Colosseum and the beautiful squares that line the streets. You can’t miss a trip to the Vatican in Rome, home to world-renowned art, stunning architecture, and the Sistine Chapel.
For those who love culture, the city is full of Rome museums offering a peek into Italy’s rich history. From famous sights to lesser-known treasures, Rome is truly one of the best Italy tourist places to explore.
Trevi Fountain Rome
The iconic Trevi Fountain, located in the heart of Rome’s city centre, is a must-see. Its beautiful Baroque design, with detailed sculptures and flowing water, makes it one of Rome’s most famous landmarks. Many visitors toss coins into the fountain, making a wish to ensure they return to the city.
The Colosseum Rome
The Colosseum in Rome is one of the most iconic landmarks in the world, showcasing the grandeur of ancient Roman engineering. Built in 70-80 AD, this massive amphitheatre once hosted gladiator battles, wild animal hunts, and grand public spectacles. Today, visitors can explore its well-preserved ruins, walk through the underground chambers, and imagine the roaring crowds that once filled its stands.
The Vatican Rome
A visit to the Vatican is a must when exploring the city, offering incredible art, the beautiful Sistine Chapel, and the impressive St. Peter’s Basilica.
How to get from Rome to the Vatican city
From the Trevi Fountain in Rome, it’s a 42-minute walk to Vatican City. You can enjoy a scenic stroll through the city, passing by landmarks along the way, or take public transportation, with the Ottaviano-San Pietro metro stop being the nearest to the Vatican.
Vatican Museum Entrance
The Vatican Museum entrance is the gateway to one of the most renowned art collections in the world. Located within Vatican City, it offers visitors access to a vast array of masterpieces, including works by Michelangelo, Raphael, and Leonardo da Vinci.
The entrance leads to various galleries and exhibits, with the highlight being the Sistine Chapel, where Michelangelo’s iconic ceiling frescoes can be admired. To avoid long queues, it’s recommended to book tickets in advance.
Top Rome Museums to Visit During Your Trip
The Vatican Museums – A collection of art and historical artifacts housed in the Vatican City, including famous works like the Sistine Chapel ceiling by Michelangelo.
Capitoline Museums – One of the oldest public museums in the world, home to ancient Roman statues, art, and exhibits that trace the history of the city.
National Roman Museum – Spread across multiple locations, it showcases Roman antiquities, sculptures, and historical artifacts.
Galleria Borghese – A renowned art gallery with works by masters like Caravaggio, Raphael, and Bernini, located in the beautiful Borghese Gardens.
Museo Nazionale di Castel Sant’Angelo – A museum located in the Castel Sant’Angelo, with a collection of medieval and Renaissance art, along with views over the city.
Rome City Centre Walking Tour: Must-Visit Spots
Start at Piazza Venezia, the heart of Rome, where you can admire the grand Vittorio Emanuele II Monument.
Walk towards the Pantheon, one of the best-preserved ancient Roman buildings, and take a moment to marvel at its impressive dome.
Nearby, Piazza Navona offers stunning Baroque architecture and lively street performances.
Continue to the Trevi Fountain, where you can toss a coin and make a wish.
Head to the Spanish Steps, a famous meeting spot with beautiful views from the top.
Walk along Via del Corso, a bustling street perfect for shopping and people-watching.
Make your way to Piazza della Rotonda, a great place to stop for a coffee with a view of the Pantheon.
End your tour at Campo de’ Fiori, a historic square filled with markets, cafes, and a vibrant evening atmosphere.
Best Hotels in Rome City Centre for Every Budget
Here’s a list of hotels in Rome across different budgets—budget, mid-range, and luxury—each with excellent ratings:
Budget Hotels Rome
Hotel Lancelot
Known for its excellent service and proximity to the Colosseum, this family-run hotel offers comfortable rooms and a welcoming atmosphere.
iQ Hotel Roma
A modern hotel located near the Opera House, offering amenities like a rooftop terrace and gym. Guests praise its cleanliness and value for money.
Sky Blue Place Rome
This hotel offers family rooms with air-conditioning, private bathrooms, and city views. Each room includes a work desk, free toiletries, and soundproofing for a restful and peaceful stay.
Navona Comfort Rooms
This Rome hotel provides comfortable bed and breakfast accommodations with air-conditioning, private bathrooms, and complimentary WiFi throughout. Each room is equipped with a work desk, TV, and soundproofing to ensure a relaxing stay.
Mid-Range Hotels Rome
Hotel Stendhal
Situated on Piazza Barberini, this family-run hotel offers a blend of traditional charm and modern amenities. Guests appreciate its strategic location near major attractions like the Trevi Fountain.
Numa I Tullo
Offers a convenient Rome city center location, just 1.2 miles from the Roman Forum and a 1-minute walk to Piazza di Santa Maria in Trastevere, with Rome Ciampino Airport 9.9 miles away. The hotel provides comfortable rooms with air-conditioning, private bathrooms, free toiletries, tea and coffee makers, and balconies, plus free WiFi throughout.
Is located on a peaceful street in the heart of the city, with a rooftop terrace that provides stunning views of historic Rome. The Colosseum and Santa Maria Maggiore Basilica are within walking distance.
Luxury Hotels Rome
Villa Agrippina Gran Meliá – The Leading Hotels of the World
Gran Melia, a 5-star hotel in central Rome, offers stylish rooms with views of the Vatican, Castel Sant’Angelo, or the hotel’s garden, along with an on-site spa and outdoor pool. Located near the Tiber River, it’s a short walk from St. Peter’s Basilica, Piazza Navona, and the Trastevere district.
Hotel d’Inghilterra Roma – Starhotels Collezione
A luxurious 5-star hotel located in central Rome, just steps from the Spanish Steps and Via del Corso. The hotel offers elegantly furnished rooms, a café, and a bar, with high-end shopping and the Trevi Fountain nearby.
Anantara Palazzo Naiadi Rome Hotel
Housed in a stunning 19th-century white marble building, Anantara Palazzo Naiadi Rome Hotel – A Leading Hotel of the World is situated in Piazza della Repubblica. This 5-star luxury hotel boasts a panoramic rooftop terrace with a seasonal plunge pool and offers free WiFi throughout.
Please note that hotel ratings and availability can change over time. It’s advisable to check the latest reviews and book in advance to secure your preferred accommodation.
Shopping in Rome City Centre: Best Boutiques & Markets
Rome’s city centre is a vibrant shopping destination, offering everything from luxury boutiques to bustling markets, making it the perfect place for a stylish shopping spree.
Via Condotti – Rome’s luxury shopping street, home to high-end designer boutiques like Gucci, Prada, and Louis Vuitton.
Campo de’ Fiori – a lively market square where you can find fresh produce, flowers, and local crafts.
Via del Corso – a bustling street offering a mix of mainstream brands and Italian fashion.
The Porta Portese Flea Market – Rome’s largest outdoor market, where you can hunt for antiques, vintage items, and quirky treasures.
Via del Babuino – a stylish shopping avenue known for its upscale art galleries and fashion boutiques.
Where to Eat in Rome City Centre
Here’s a guide to where you can find the best pasta in Rome. From classic carbonara to delicious cacio e pepe, the city offers plenty of spots to enjoy authentic, mouthwatering pasta dishes.
Trieste Pizza – A humble pizzeria near the Colosseum, known for its solid and affordable pizzas.
Pizza in Trevi – a pizzeria located near the Trevi Fountain, offering a variety of traditional Italian pizzas.
Pizzeria La Boccaccia – a popular spot with multiple locations, including Trastevere, known for its delicious pizza al taglio (pizza by the slice).
Rione XIV Bistrot – a cozy bistro offering a modern twist on traditional Italian dishes, located in the heart of Rome.
al42 by Pasta Chef rione Monti – a pasta-focused eatery in the Rione Monti district, serving fresh, homemade pasta dishes in a casual setting.
Ristorante La Tavernaccia Da Bruno – a family-run tavern since 1968, offering homestyle Roman pasta and meat dishes in a cozy, rustic setting.
Experience the Magic of Rome by Night
Explore the Colosseum at Night – Take a special evening tour of the Colosseum when it’s beautifully lit and less crowded.
Visit the Vatican Museums After Hours – Some nights, the Vatican Museums open for exclusive evening visits, offering a quieter experience.
Stroll Along the Tiber River – Walk by the illuminated bridges and enjoy the relaxed atmosphere along the riverbanks.
Enjoy a Rooftop Aperitivo – Sip a cocktail with stunning city views from a rooftop bar like Terrazza Borromini or Hotel Minerva.
Wander Trastevere’s Lively Streets – Experience Rome’s nightlife in this charming district filled with buzzing restaurants and bars. T
Take a Nighttime Vespa Tour – Ride through the city’s historic streets on a Vespa for a fun and unique way to see Rome after dark.
See the Trevi Fountain Without Crowds – Visit this iconic landmark late at night for a peaceful, magical experience.
Listen to Live Music at Piazza Navona – Street musicians often perform here, adding to the lively yet relaxed nighttime vibe.
Explore the Appian Way by Moonlight – Take a guided night walk or bike ride along this ancient Roman road.
Join a Late-Night Food Tour – Sample Roman specialties like supplì and gelato on an evening food tour through hidden gems.
The Best Italy Road Trip Itinerary
Exploring Italy by road is one of the best ways to experience its stunning coastline, historic cities, and charming villages. If you’re planning a trip that includes Rome, consider adding stops in Santa Margherita Ligure, Livorno, Civitavecchia, and Genoa.
Start in Rome, soaking up its rich history, then head to Civitavecchia, a popular cruise port with easy access to the coast. From there, drive to Livorno, known for its seafood and beautiful canals, before making your way to Genoa, a vibrant port city with incredible architecture.
Finally, Santa Margherita Ligure offers a perfect seaside escape before continuing your Italian adventure.
Santa Margherita Italy
Italy tourism at its best! Check out our blog post: Exploring the Italian Riviera: A Day Trip from Genoa to Santa Margherita Ligure and Portofino. This stunning coastline is known for its colourful seaside villages, crystal-clear waters, and charming Italian atmosphere.
We’re hoping to visit Italy in December—I’ve heard that Cortina d’Ampezzo and Bolzano are beautiful at Christmas! Speaking of Christmas, we absolutely loved Strasbourg in France and Freiburg in Germany during the holiday season.
Ryanair Rome: Connecting Europe with Rome
If you prefer flying to road trips, Ryanair (one of Europe´s major budget airlines) offer extensive flight routes to Rome from various European destinations. The airline operates flights to both Rome Ciampino and Rome Fiumicino airports, providing travelers with convenient access to Italy’s capital city.
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