A Weekend in Rome: History, Hidden Gems & Heavenly Tiramisu
- Jay Curtis
- Jul 23
- 6 min read
There are few places in the world that can match Rome for its sheer concentration of history, culture, and jaw-dropping beauty. In just a weekend, you can walk through the pages of history ranging from ancient empires to Renaissance masterpieces, all while devouring unforgettable food and soaking up the unique Roman atmosphere.
If you’re planning a short trip to Italy’s capital, here’s how to see the best of Rome in three days, with practical tips, quiet photo spots, and must-try eats along the way.
Day 1: Ancient Rome and Iconic Fountains
Beat the crowds and head to the Trevi Fountain around 7:00am. At this hour, the marble sparkles in the soft morning light, and the only sound is the water cascading behind you. It’s the perfect time to throw a coin over your shoulder (legend says it guarantees a return to Rome!) and snap that postcard-perfect photo without the sea of tourists.
Just a 10-minute walk away, the Spanish Steps are equally serene at this hour. Climb the 135 steps to the top for lovely views over the rooftops, then wander into nearby streets like Via dei Condotti for breakfast and a perfect espresso at Cafe Greco which was founded in 1760, you wont be disappointed.
Top Tip: Most of Rome sleeps in, so early morning is your golden hour for photography and peaceful sightseeing.
Midday: The Colosseum, Roman Forum & Palatine Hill
Next, hop on the metro (Rome’s tap-and-go system works with contactless bank cards – no need to buy a ticket in advance) and head to Colosseo Station. Rising out of the earth like a forgotten titan, the Colosseum is still one of the world’s most incredible landmarks. Book your timed ticket in advance to avoid queues. Better still, why book the underground trip.
After exploring the amphitheatre, don’t miss the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill just next door. This was once the beating heart of ancient Rome, filled with temples, arches, and the bustle of Roman life.
Photo Tip: For an epic panoramic shot of the Colosseum, head uphill to Giardinetto del Monte Oppio, a leafy park offering one of the best elevated views without the crowds.
Cross the Tiber via the grand Ponte Sant’Angelo, lined with Bernini’s angels, and arrive at the looming circular structure of Castel Sant’Angelo. At first glance, it may look like a strange fortress, but this building has one of the most fascinating backstories in Rome.
Originally built in the 2nd century AD as Emperor Hadrian’s mausoleum, it was later converted into a military fortress and eventually became a papal stronghold. In the Middle Ages, it was repurposed by the popes as a secure refuge in times of danger. When Rome was under siege, popes could flee the Vatican through the Passetto di Borgo – a hidden fortified corridor nearly 800 meters long which would taken them directly into the safety of the Castel's thick stone walls.
Inside, you’ll find layers of history stacked like a lasagna: from ancient Roman architecture to Renaissance apartments, gloomy prison cells, and even an arms museum. The panoramic terrace at the top offers one of the most dramatic views in Rome which looks straight over St. Peter’s Basilica, the River Tiber, and the surrounding cityscape.
Fun Fact: Pope Clement VII famously used Castel Sant’Angelo as a refuge during the 1527 Sack of Rome, escaping through the secret passage while the city fell into chaos.
Day 2: The Vatican, Ancient Temples & Sweet Treats
Morning: Pantheon and Piazza Navona
Start your second day at the Pantheon, one of the most perfectly preserved buildings from Ancient Rome. Entry is now ticketed, so book in advance for an early slot, especially when the light is streaming through the oculus between 11am and 1pm.
Stroll on to Piazza Navona, with its elegant fountains, street performers, and artists. This is a great place to soak in the atmosphere and enjoy a cappuccino at one of the cafes lining the square.
Lunchtime Treat: Maritozzo
Forget pizza for a moment, why not hunt down a maritozzo instead. This sweet Roman bun, filled with whipped cream, is the ultimate indulgence and a local favourite. Try one at Regoli Pasticceria or Maritozzo Rosso for a modern twist.
Afternoon into Evening: The Vatican Museums & Pantheon
First up, head over to the Pantheon, this is where ancient Roman architecture meets celestial harmony. Originally built as a pagan temple in 27 BC (and rebuilt in its current form by Emperor Hadrian around 120 AD), it's the best-preserved building from ancient Rome and still holds the largest unreinforced concrete dome in the world.
When you step inside, the feeling is surreal. The oculus, a circular opening at the top of the dome is the only source of light, creating a mystical atmosphere that shifts throughout the day. Rain occasionally falls inside, and the floor is gently sloped to drain it, an example of Roman engineering at its finest.
Today, it’s a consecrated church and also a burial site. Among those interred here are Raphael, the artist, and Victor Emmanuel II, the first king of unified Italy.
Tip: Go mid-morning to experience the beam of sunlight illuminating the marble interior. Entry now requires a timed ticket, so reserve in advance via the official website.
For a more relaxed visit to one of the most popular attractions in the world, book the last entry slot at 5:45pm for the Vatican Museums. Most tour groups have cleared out by then, so you'll have more space to explore the Sistine Chapel, Raphael Rooms, and the sprawling galleries with a bit more breathing room.
Remember, Rome’s public transport system including buses, metro, and trams all now supports tap-and-go contactless payments, making it incredibly convenient. Just tap your bank card or phone at the turnstile or on the bus reader, and you're good to go. No need for paper tickets.
Day 3: St. Peter’s Basilica & Dome
Day 3: St. Peter’s Basilica & The Dome – A Spiritual and Visual High Point
After two busy days exploring Rome’s ancient and artistic heritage, dedicate Day 3 to fully experiencing St. Peter’s Basilica, the Dome, and the spiritual heart of Vatican City.
Morning: Climb the Dome (Cupola) of St. Peter’s
Start early (ideally by 7:30–8:00am) to beat the lines and the midday heat and book online to skip the queue. The entrance to the dome is to the right of the basilica’s main façade, and you can either:
Take the lift to the roof level and climb 320 more steps, or
Walk the full 551 steps for a rewarding leg workout.
Use the Holy Door. It only opens once every 25 years. Book it here: https://www.iubilaeum2025.va
The climb takes you between the basilica’s inner and outer domes, giving you a close-up look at Michelangelo’s engineering genius. At the very top, you're treated to breathtaking 360° views of Vatican City, the Tiber River, and the entirety of Rome spread out beneath you.
Don’t Miss: The inner dome view over Bernini’s Baldacchino and the high altar is one of the most unique vantage points in the city.
Midday: Explore St. Peter’s Basilica Interior
After descending, why not step into St. Peter’s Basilica, a space that is both grand and deeply moving. The sheer scale is staggering: it can hold over 60,000 people, yet every corner feels carefully crafted.
Key highlights inside:
Michelangelo’s Pietà – a masterpiece sculpted when he was just 24 years old.
St. Peter’s Baldacchino – a massive bronze canopy by Bernini over the high altar.
The Tomb of St. Peter – located directly beneath the altar, believed to be the burial site of the apostle.
The floors, the sculptures, the chapels, in fact every part tells a story. You could easily spend an hour or two here just absorbing it all.
Lunch Tip Nearby: Try Borgo Pio, a quiet street behind Vatican City with excellent trattorias. Look for Arlù or Da Romolo for traditional Roman pasta dishes.
Final Tips for the Perfect Roman Weekend:
Download offline maps: Rome’s narrow alleys can be confusing. Google Maps offline is your best friend and can be downloaded to save on mobile data.
Pack comfy shoes: You’ll be walking a lot over cobbled streets.
Book major attractions in advance, especially the Vatican Museums, Colosseum, and Pantheon. They sell out weeks in advance.
Eat like a local: Avoid restaurants with aggressive touts and plastic menus. Instead, look for places filled with Romans, or try trattorias slightly off the main squares.
Watch the full Rome Vlog here:
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