Rome on a Shoestring: 2-Day Budget Itinerary

Day 1: Historic Highlights

Rome, Italy

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Pasticceria Regoli

Start your day with a delicious cornetto and cappuccino at Pasticceria Regoli, a classic pastry shop loved by locals.
Located near Termini Station, just a short walk from the historic center.
EUR5, 30 minutes

9:00 AM

Visit the Colosseum

Explore the iconic Colosseum, allowing yourself to be transported back in time as you stroll through this ancient gladiatorial arena.
Walk to the Colosseum from Pasticceria Regoli (20 min walk).
EUR16 (optional to book a guided tour), 1.5 hours

10:30 AM

Roman Forum and Palatine Hill

Next door to the Colosseum is the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill, where you can wander through the ruins and appreciate the heart of ancient Rome.
Adjacent to the Colosseum.
Included in Colosseum ticket, 2 hours

12:30 PM

Lunch at Forno Campo de' Fiori

Grab a slice of authentic Roman pizza bianca or a porchetta sandwich at this popular bakery in the vibrant Campo de' Fiori.
Take a 25-minute walk to Campo de' Fiori from the Forum.
EUR5-7, 1 hour

1:30 PM

Explore Piazza Navona

Stroll over to Piazza Navona, one of the city's most beautiful squares, surrounded by stunning baroque architecture and lively street artists.
It's a 15-minute walk from Campo de' Fiori.
Free, 1 hour

2:30 PM

Visit the Pantheon

Marvel at the architectural wonder of the Pantheon, one of the best-preserved monuments of ancient Rome, just a short walk from Piazza Navona.
Walk to the Pantheon (10 min walk).
Free, 1 hour

3:30 PM

Gelato at Giolitti

Savor a delicious gelato at Giolitti, famed for its rich flavors and local popularity.
A 15-minute walk from the Pantheon.
EUR3, 30 minutes

4:00 PM

Visit Trevi Fountain

End your day by tossing a coin into the Trevi Fountain, ensuring your return to Rome. Enjoy the beauty of the fountain as you capture the moment.
A 15-minute walk from Giolitti.
Free, 30 minutes

5:00 PM

Dinner at Trattoria Da Enzo al 29

Experience a traditional Roman dinner at Trattoria Da Enzo, where you can indulge in classic dishes like Cacio e Pepe on a budget.
Take a 25-minute walk to Trastevere.
EUR15-25, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Art and Culture

Rome, Italy

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Bar D'Italia

Fuel your day with a coffee and pastry at Bar D'Italia, known for its welcoming atmosphere and authentic Roman indulgences.
Located near your accommodation.
EUR5, 30 minutes

9:00 AM

Vatican City St. Peter's Basilica

Visit St. Peter's Basilica, embracing the grandeur of Renaissance architecture and the stunning artworks inside.
Take the metro or walk to the Vatican (20 minutes).
Free (optional audio guide EUR5), 1.5 hours

10:30 AM

Explore the Vatican Museums

Delve into the extensive collections of the Vatican Museums, featuring remarkable works including the Sistine Chapel.
Museums are adjacent to St. Peter's Basilica.
EUR17 (reservation recommended to skip queues), 2 hours

12:30 PM

Lunch at Pizzarium

Satisfy your hunger with gourmet pizza by the slice at Pizzarium, a renowned spot among locals and visitors.
Take a 15-minute walk from the museums.
EUR5-10, 1 hour

1:30 PM

Stroll through Villa Borghese Gardens

Spend the afternoon enjoying the tranquility of Villa Borghese, a beautiful garden perfect for a leisurely stroll or a picnic.
Take the metro to Flaminio station and walk to Villa Borghese (25 minutes).
Free, 1.5 hours

3:00 PM

Visit Galleria Borghese

Explore the Galleria Borghese and its impressive art collection, showcasing works by Caravaggio, Bernini, and Raphael.
Just a short walk inside Villa Borghese.
EUR13 (reservation required), 1.5 hours

4:30 PM

Coffee Break at Caffè Rosati

Enjoy an afternoon coffee at Caffè Rosati, a local favorite, while taking in views of the beautiful gardens.
Located near the Galleria Borghese.
EUR3, 30 minutes

5:00 PM

Dinner at Tonnarello

Finish off your trip with a hearty dinner of Roman cuisine at Tonnarello, celebrated for its fun atmosphere and delicious pasta dishes.
Take the metro or walk back to Trastevere (20-30 minutes).
EUR15-20, 1.5 hours
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