Rome is a city that enchants with its millennia-old history and iconic landmarks, but there's much more beyond the classic Colosseum, Trevi Fountain, and St. Peter’s Square.
If you're planning a weekend in the Eternal City and want to discover hidden gems away from the tourist crowds, you're in the right place! This article offers alternative itineraries to experience Rome in an authentic way.
How Many Days Do You Need to Visit Rome?
The answer depends on the kind of experience you’re looking for. If you want to see the main attractions, two or three days can be enough, but to fully explore Rome, you’d need weeks, if not months! However, a well-organized weekend will allow you to discover both the famous sights and some of the city's hidden treasures.
If you only have two days, it's best to choose a balanced itinerary that includes must-see landmarks and lesser-known spots while avoiding peak hours to make the most of your visit.
What to Do in Rome in Two Days?
A weekend in Rome can be intense, but it can also be relaxing if you choose less crowded routes. Here’s a suggested itinerary for two days away from the usual tourist paths.
Must-Visit Places in Rome
If it's your first time in the capital, you can’t miss at least a few iconic spots. However, you can incorporate them into an alternative itinerary:
- Aventine Hill and the Orange Garden: A romantic stroll with a panoramic view of Rome and the magic of the famous keyhole at Piazza dei Cavalieri di Malta.
- Jewish Ghetto: One of Rome’s most fascinating neighborhoods, rich in history and home to excellent restaurants serving Jewish-Roman cuisine.
- Coppedè District: A fairytale-like corner of Rome, featuring buildings with an almost gothic, fantastical architecture.
- Basilica of San Clemente: A church that hides three layers of history inside, from Roman times to the Middle Ages.
- Walk along the Tiber River: Especially at sunset, it offers breathtaking views of the city and a unique atmosphere.
Unusual Places to Visit in Rome
If you’ve already seen the main attractions, here are some lesser-known spots worth visiting:
- Centrale Montemartini: A former power plant turned into a museum where classical statues are displayed alongside industrial machinery.
- Catacombs of Priscilla: Less known than the Catacombs of San Callisto, but equally fascinating.
- Via Piccolomini: A street where St. Peter’s Dome appears to shrink as you approach it.
- The Passetto di Borgo: A secret passage connecting the Vatican to Castel Sant’Angelo, open for visits only on special occasions.
- The Museum of the Souls in Purgatory: A small and eerie museum preserving evidence of supposed supernatural apparitions.
What to Do in Rome as a Couple Over the Weekend?
If you're traveling as a couple, Rome offers countless romantic and charming experiences:
- Dinner with a view: Try dining at Palazzo Manfredi’s restaurant with a view of the Colosseum.
- Evening stroll in Trastevere: The neighborhood is magical at night, with its illuminated streets and bohemian atmosphere.
- Vespa tour: Renting a Vespa and exploring the city like in Roman Holiday is an unforgettable experience.
- Aperitivo on a rooftop terrace: The Gianicolo Hill, Hotel Minerva, or the bar at Raphael Hotel offer breathtaking views.
- Underground Rome: Discover the hidden city with tours of the Roman Domus or the Vatican Necropolis.
Weekend in Rome with Kids: What to Do?
If you're traveling with family, Rome can be an exciting adventure for little ones too. Here are some kid-friendly activities:
- Bioparco di Roma: A zoo with over 200 animal species, located in Villa Borghese.
- Explora - The Children's Museum: An interactive museum perfect for young visitors, featuring educational games and creative activities.
- Cinecittà Studios: A tour of Rome’s famous film studios can be fascinating for kids and make them feel like they're inside a movie.
- Gianicolo Hill and the Noon Cannon: Every day at noon, the Gianicolo cannon fires a blank shot—a tradition that captivates both kids and adults.
- Biking along the Appian Way: A great way to combine fun and history in a family-friendly outdoor setting.
What to Do in Rome on a Sunday?
Sundays in Rome are perfect for enjoying the city at a more relaxed pace. For example, you can explore the flea markets, such as Porta Portese, the most famous market in the city.
Alternatively, visit historic villas: Villa Doria Pamphili and Villa Borghese offer stunning green spaces for walks and picnics.
And to make your Sunday even more special, why not admire Rome from a new perspective with an open-top bus tour of the city's most iconic sights?
Book a Rome bus tour with Green Line Tours and enjoy the city’s wonders in total comfort, with a panoramic 360° view!
