48-Hour Ultimate Rome Itinerary: Colosseum, Vatican & More

Day 1: Vatican Exploration

Rome, Italy on April 22, 2025

1:00pm

Lunch at Pizzarium Bonci

Enjoy some of the best Roman-style pizza al taglio at this renowned spot near the Vatican, perfect for a quick, delicious lunch before museum visits.
EUR10, 1h

2:00pm

Vatican Museums Tour

Explore the vast collection of art and history housed in the Vatican Museums including the Sistine Chapel. Essential to pre-book tickets and arrive on time for your 2pm entry.
EUR17, 3h

5:30pm

St. Peter's Basilica Visit

Visit the stunning St. Peter's Basilica located just outside the Vatican Museums. Entry is free and the basilica is open until 6:30pm, perfect for late afternoon contemplation.
EUR0, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Ristorante Arlu

A traditional Roman restaurant offering classic dishes like carbonara and saltimbocca near the Vatican area, ideal for an authentic Italian dinner.
EUR30, 1.5h
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Day 2: Colosseum & Roman Forum

Rome, Italy on April 23, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at La Casa del Caffè Tazza d'Oro

Start your day with an excellent Italian espresso and a cornetto at one of Rome’s famed cafes near the Pantheon, open early since 7am.
EUR5, 1h

9:00am

Explore Roman Forum and Palatine Hill

Wander the ancient ruins adjacent to the Colosseum to get a comprehensive view of Imperial Rome’s heart. Open until 7pm in April, plenty of time to explore before your Colosseum visit.
EUR16, 2h

12:15pm

Colosseum Tour

Pre-booked ticket entry to Rome’s iconic Colosseum. Dive into the history of this ancient amphitheatre with a guided tour if preferred, to understand its significance and architecture.
EUR18, 1.5h

2:00pm

Lunch at Aroma Restaurant

Enjoy a fantastic lunch with views of the Colosseum. This Michelin-starred restaurant provides a remarkable dining experience in close proximity to your sightseeing.
EUR50, 2h

4:30pm

Visit Capitoline Museums

Discover Rome’s historic art and archaeology collections at Capitoline Museums which close at 7:30pm, offering a quieter afternoon option after lunch.
EUR15, 1.5h

7:30pm

Dinner at Trattoria Luzzi

Finish the day at this lively trattoria near the Colosseum known for its Roman comfort food with good atmosphere and affordable prices.
EUR25, 1.5h
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Day 3: Historic Centre & Departure

Rome, Italy on April 24, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Roscioli Caffè

Dine at this popular bakery and cafe near Campo de’ Fiori, known for exceptional pastries and coffee, perfect to kickstart your last day in Rome.
EUR7, 1h

9:30am

Pantheon Visit

Explore one of Rome’s best-preserved ancient buildings, open 9am-7pm. Admire the dome and the historical artworks inside this architectural marvel.
EUR5, 1h

10:45am

Piazza Navona

Stroll around this lively square famous for its beautiful fountains, street artists and vibrant cafes. It's a great spot to soak up Roman street life.
EUR0, 1h

12:00pm

Lunch at Osteria del Pegno

Enjoy a relaxed Italian lunch close to Piazza Navona, serving authentic Roman dishes in a cozy setting, open daily from 12pm.
EUR30, 1.5h

2:00pm

Trevi Fountain & Spanish Steps

Walk to the iconic Trevi Fountain to toss a coin for luck, then stroll up to the Spanish Steps area for some last-minute sightseeing and shopping.
EUR0, 2h

5:00pm

Coffee break at Giolitti

Treat yourself to Rome’s famous gelato and coffee at Giolitti, a historic gelateria near the Pantheon, perfect for a mid-afternoon refreshment.
EUR10, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at La Carbonara

Savor your final Italian dinner with classic dishes like spaghetti alla carbonara in this well-regarded restaurant in Rome’s historic centre.
EUR35, 1.5h

9:00pm

Evening stroll along the Tiber River

Enjoy a leisurely walk along the scenic Tiber River, soaking in views of illuminated bridges and Rome’s skyline before your departure at midnight.
EUR0, 1.5h
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