Start your day off with a visit to Vatican City. Home to St. Peter's Basilica, the Sistine Chapel, and the Vatican Museums, it is a must-visit destination for art, history, and culture enthusiasts. Spend a few hours admiring the beautiful artworks and learning about the rich history of Vatican City.
After lunch, head to Piazza di Spagna, which is home to the famous Spanish Steps. Climb up the stairs to reach the beautiful church at the top of the steps. A quick 10 minute walk will lead you to the Trevi Fountain, one of the most famous landmarks in Rome. Don't forget to toss a coin into the fountain for good luck!
End your first day by visiting the tranquil Villa Borghese Gardens. A beautiful park in the heart of the city, the gardens offer a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life. Take a stroll, rent a bike, or enjoy a picnic with your family.
Start your second day with a visit to the Colosseum, one of the most iconic landmarks in Rome. The structure, built in 80 AD, is one of the largest amphitheaters in the world and is steeped in history. Take a guided tour to learn more about the structure's fascinating history, and then head to the Roman Forum to see the ancient ruins of a once-powerful empire.
After lunch, head to the Pantheon, one of the best-preserved ancient Roman buildings in the city. Marvel at the impressive architecture and learn about its fascinating history. A quick walk will take you to Piazza Navona, one of the most beautiful squares in Rome. Take a break and enjoy the scenic view while your kids play in the beautiful fountains.
End your trip by visiting Castel Sant'Angelo, an iconic fortress that has served as a mausoleum, a papal residency, and a museum throughout its history. Enjoy the beautiful view of the city from the top of the castle, and then head to the charming Trastevere neighborhood. Sample some delicious Italian cuisine or wander through the narrow cobblestone streets to soak up the local flavor.
Public transportation is the best way to get around Rome. The city has a comprehensive public transit system consisting of buses, trains, and metro lines. The Rome Metro has two lines, A and B, with three additional lines in the works. A one-way ticket costs 1.50 Euro and is valid for 100 minutes on all modes of transport, including transfers. Taxis are another option but can be expensive, especially during peak hours.
If you have more time, consider visiting the Roman Catacombs, the Capitoline Museums, or the Baths of Caracalla. If you have less time, skip Villa Borghese Gardens or Trastevere.
The primary airport serving Rome is Leonardo da Vinci–Fiumicino Airport (FCO), located 30 kilometers from the city center. It is the busiest airport in Italy and the sixth busiest in Europe. Rome also has a secondary airport, Ciampino-G. B. Pastine International Airport (CIA), located 12 kilometers from the city center. It operates mainly as a hub for low-cost carriers.