The Rome IndexA weekend in Rome
48 hours: the ideal two-day route for a short city break.
Day 1: Ancient Rome
Start early at the Colosseum and Roman Forum (book ahead), then walk up to Palatine Hill for the view. Lunch in Monti. Afternoon at the Capitoline Museums, then walk through the historic center to the Pantheon — end the evening at Campo de' Fiori for aperitivo.
Day 2: Vatican & the other Rome
Vatican Museums first thing (pre-booked, early slot), followed by St Peter's Basilica. Lunch in Prati. Afternoon walk to Castel Sant'Angelo, then cross the river to Trastevere — dinner there, then walk back through the illuminated city center.
What to skip
With two days, don't try to add the Borghese Gallery, Ostia Antica or any day trips — save those for a longer visit or a return trip.