With its world-renowned cuisine, rich cultural landmarks, and breathtaking views, Rome offers something for every kind of traveler.
If you’re fortunate enough to spend two days in the Italian capital, you’ll want a focused yet exciting itinerary to make the most of your time. In this Rome travel guide, we go beyond the typical tourist attractions like the Colosseum and Sistine Chapel, offering you a true taste of the city. From savoring authentic Italian coffee, pizza, and pasta to climbing the iconic Spanish Steps and tossing a coin into the Trevi Fountain, this is the best of Rome to explore in just 48 hours.
Rome Travel Guide
Rome, the Eternal City, is a captivating blend of ancient history, vibrant culture, and modern charm. This Rome travel guide will help you navigate through the city’s iconic landmarks like the Colosseum and the Pantheon, while also uncovering hidden gems tucked away in the charming streets. Whether you’re admiring the art at the Vatican Museums, tossing a coin into the Trevi Fountain, or enjoying authentic Italian cuisine, Rome offers endless opportunities to explore. From historical ruins to trendy cafes, this guide will ensure you experience the best of Rome in every way.
Day 1
Caffè Ciamei
This traditional coffee shop is committed to delivering the freshest coffee experience possible by roasting its own beans. Whether you’re enjoying your cup in-store or taking a bag home, you’re guaranteed a high-quality brew. The aroma of freshly ground coffee beans fills the air as you step in, creating a warm, inviting atmosphere. For something truly special, be sure to ask for a glass of their signature coffee liqueur.
It’s a delightful treat on its own, offering a rich, smooth taste, or you can elevate the experience by pouring it over a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream – a perfect indulgence to complement the coffee’s bold flavor. This is the kind of place where coffee lovers can truly appreciate the craft behind each cup.
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Freshly roasted beans
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Authentic in-store experience
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Signature coffee liqueur
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Take-home coffee options
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Expert craftsmanship
Nuovo Mercato Esquilino
As highlighted in any authentic Rome travel guide, one spot that truly captures the city’s vibrant soul is this dynamic open-air market. With its multicultural energy and rows of colorful stalls, it’s more than just a place to shop—it’s a cultural journey. The air is filled with rich aromas of fresh produce and rare spices that are hard to find elsewhere in Rome.
Wander through stalls offering everything from traditional Italian cured meats to Bengali cuts at the local butcher, or fresh seafood from a Chinese fish vendor. Another section of the market features an impressive array of household items, clothing, and beautiful fabrics—from bold African wax prints to elegant sari textiles handcrafted by an Indian tailor.
Whether you’re after ingredients for a unique dish or simply want to experience Rome’s global flair, this market is a hidden gem worth exploring.
Highlights include:
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Fresh international produce
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Rare spices and ingredients
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Culturally diverse food stalls
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Unique textiles and fabrics
Mamertine Prison
A lesser-known yet chilling stop in any well-rounded Rome travel guide is the ancient Roman prison that once held some of history’s most significant figures. Hidden beneath the San Giuseppe dei Falegnami church, this maximum-security prison is home to the infamous Tullianum dungeon—a dark, underground chamber steeped in legend and silence.
According to tradition, this was the final place of confinement for Saints Peter and Paul before their executions, lending the site deep spiritual and historical resonance. The oppressive atmosphere and stark architecture make it a striking contrast to Rome’s more grandiose landmarks, offering visitors a haunting glimpse into the darker side of the Eternal City’s past.
Highlights include:
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Underground Tullianum dungeon
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Historical connection to Saints Peter and Paul
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Hidden beneath a Baroque-era church
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Evocative, lesser-visited landmark
Archbasilica of Saint John Lateran
A notable entry in any Rome travel guide is the stunning Archbasilica of St. John Lateran, a masterpiece shaped by centuries of devotion and artistic brilliance. Under the commission of Pope Innocent X, renowned architect Francesco Borromini led the 17th-century interior renovations that gave the basilica its current Baroque elegance.
As part of his visionary design, twelve niches were carved into the walls—reserved for something special. By 1718, those niches were finally filled with statues of the Apostles, brought to life by the leading Rococo sculptors of the Roman art scene. Today, these towering figures still watch over visitors, combining spiritual gravitas with artistic grandeur.
Highlights include:
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Baroque interior by Francesco Borromini
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Commissioned by Pope Innocent X
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Apostle statues by top Rococo sculptors
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Key stop in Rome’s sacred architectural heritage
Yotvata
For those following dietary restrictions, a great Rome travel guide should include Yotvata—Rome’s only certified dairy kosher restaurant. This unique spot blends tradition with Italian culinary excellence, offering a warm and inviting space for kosher diners without sacrificing flavor or authenticity.
The cheeses served at Yotvata come from top Italian dairies, all carefully supervised by the Orthodox Union to meet strict kosher standards. These high-quality ingredients are at the heart of standout dishes, such as their delicate ricotta and sour cherry tart—a sweet and tangy creation that has become a house specialty.
Highlights include:
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Rome’s only certified dairy kosher restaurant
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Premium kosher cheese from Italian dairies
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Signature ricotta and sour cherry tart
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Perfect blend of tradition and local flavor
Achilli al Parlamento
An elegant yet inventive stop featured in any top-tier Rome travel guide is this Michelin-starred gem tucked inside a historic wine shop. Known for its artistic take on Roman cuisine, the restaurant serves deconstructed interpretations of classic local dishes—each plate a thoughtful nod to tradition with a modern twist.
The experience is elevated by a world-class wine menu, boasting thousands of vintages from Italy and beyond. Guests can choose to dine in the intimate, wood-panelled main room or opt for a more relaxed setting in the bistrot area, making it suitable for both celebratory evenings and casual indulgence.
Highlights include:
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Michelin-starred Roman cuisine
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Thousands of wine vintages
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Deconstructed local dishes
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Choice between fine dining and casual bistrot
Day 2
Tram Depot
A charming and unexpected gem that deserves a spot in any Rome travel guide, this delightful specialty coffee bar is set inside a repurposed vintage tram carriage. It’s a perfect blend of nostalgia and style, offering visitors a cozy, offbeat experience far from the tourist crowds.
During the day, you can sip expertly brewed coffee in the serene garden while watching locals go about their day. In the evening, the atmosphere shifts—inviting groups of friends to gather for creative cocktails under the soft glow of outdoor lights. A selection of snacks and light bites is available to complement your drink of choice.
Highlights include:
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Coffee bar inside a vintage tram
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Tranquil garden seating
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Great for daytime coffee or evening cocktails
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Offers small bites and snacks
Piazza di Spagna
No Rome travel guide is complete without a stop at one of the city’s most iconic landmarks: the Spanish Steps. Located in a bustling and elegant neighborhood, this stunning square links you to the French church Trinità dei Monti via the grand, sloping staircase that has charmed visitors for centuries.
Snap a photo by Bernini’s beautifully sculpted Barcaccia Fountain at the base of the steps, then grab a gelato and make your way up the staircase. As you sit and soak in the atmosphere, it’s easy to imagine yourself in a scene from Roman Holiday, surrounded by beauty, history, and the buzz of Roman life.
Highlights include:
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Iconic Spanish Steps
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Bernini’s Barcaccia Fountain
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Gelato with a view
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Connection to Trinità dei Monti
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Classic film setting atmosphere
Trevi Fountain
A must-see on any well-crafted Rome travel guide, the Trevi Fountain is a baroque masterpiece that continues to enchant travelers from all over the world. Designed by Nicola Salvi, this grand monument is more than just an architectural gem—it’s steeped in legend. According to tradition, tossing a coin into its sparkling waters guarantees your return to the Eternal City.
Though it’s one of Rome’s most photographed landmarks, there’s a quieter magic to be found if you visit early in the morning, when the crowds haven’t yet arrived. In the peaceful light of dawn, the fountain’s sculptural details and cascading water feel even more captivating.
Highlights include:
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Iconic Trevi Fountain
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Coin-toss tradition for a return to Rome
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Early morning visits offer solitude
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Designed by Nicola Salvi
National Gallery of Modern and Contemporary Art
Art lovers will find a true treasure in the Palace of Fine Arts—a must-visit cultural stop featured in any comprehensive Rome travel guide. Inside, you’ll encounter masterpieces by legendary artists such as Claude Monet, Vincent van Gogh, and Andy Warhol. The gallery’s diverse exhibitions span major artistic movements from Neoclassicism and Cubism to Futurism, offering a rich visual journey through centuries of creative expression.
After soaking in the beauty of world-renowned artworks, take a moment to relax at the on-site café. It’s the perfect spot to recharge with a creamy cappuccino and reflect on the art you’ve just experienced.
Highlights include:
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Works by Monet, van Gogh, and Warhol
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Exhibits spanning Neoclassicism to Futurism
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Quiet, cozy café for a coffee break
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Ideal stop for art lovers in Rome
Ai Marmi
A must-try stop for pizza enthusiasts, this bustling restaurant featured in any Rome travel guide serves up authentic Roman-style pizzas straight from an open kitchen. The aroma of thin, wood-fired crusts fills the air as skilled chefs prepare each pie in full view of diners. While the white marble tables can fill up quickly, a short wait is well worth it. Soon, you’ll be sharing a meal with locals and savoring the perfect balance of crispy crust, fresh toppings, and classic Roman flavors.
Highlights include:
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Authentic Roman-style pizza
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Wood-fired oven cooking
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Open kitchen for an interactive experience
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Popular with locals, offering an authentic vibe
Angelico18
For a touch of sophistication, this speakeasy is a hidden gem you’ll find in any Rome travel guide. With plush velvet sofas, smooth jazz, and elegant chandeliers, the ambiance is both luxurious and intimate. The decor features a blend of modern art that creates an upscale atmosphere perfect for enjoying a drink. On the menu, don’t miss the mezcal-based Fandango cocktail or the curated selection of Japanese whisky, making it a must-visit for cocktail connoisseurs.
Highlights include:
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Plush velvet sofas and elegant chandeliers
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Mezcal-based Fandango cocktail
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Extensive selection of Japanese whisky
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Intimate, sophisticated speakeasy atmosphere
Teatro dell’Opera di Roma
Rome’s reputation for hosting spectacular performances is well-deserved, and the stunning theatres and opera houses throughout the city are a true reflection of the world-class shows that take place within them. In this vibrant cultural hub, you’ll experience mesmerizing ballet, unforgettable operas, and masterful orchestral performances, all staged in venues with rich histories. Whether you’re here for a night of drama or classical music, Rome guarantees a truly remarkable experience.
Highlights include:
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Iconic theatres and opera houses
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World-renowned ballet and opera performances
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Masterful orchestra conductors
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Rich cultural history and ambiance
Where to stay
For a stay that combines luxury and convenience, Rome travel guide recommends Ara di Marte Suites. Located just around the corner from the Michelin-starred Achilli al Parlamento, you’ll find it easy to indulge in a delicious plate of pasta and then walk home in just one minute.
If you’re looking for charm and proximity to one of Rome’s iconic landmarks, Armonia All’Opera is a delightful guest house only steps away from the Teatro dell’Opera di Roma. With spacious rooms adorned with marble floors and antique furnishings, it offers a unique and elegant experience.
For those who want to be close to the Trevi Fountain, Maalot Roma offers a luxurious escape just 200 meters away. Its stylish suites, full of vibrant colours, promise a chic and comfortable stay.
In conclusion, Rome offers a variety of accommodation options that cater to different tastes and needs, from the convenient Ara di Marte Suites near top-tier dining, to the elegant Armonia All’Opera by the Teatro dell’Opera di Roma, and the luxurious Maalot Roma just a stone’s throw from the Trevi Fountain. Each location provides a unique experience, making it easy to find the perfect place to stay while exploring the city’s rich history and culture.