Rome is a city with a rich history and culture, and there are many ways to experience it firsthand. One of the best ways is to visit the museums and cultural sites that dot the city. As the adage goes, Rome wasn’t built in a day… but with some careful planning and willingness to fill your itinerary, a time-poor traveller can certainly see the highlights of this historic city in one full day!
And if you plan your visit carefully, you can do so for free. On the first Sunday of every month, many of Rome’s museums and cultural sites offer free admission. This includes some of the city’s most popular attractions, such as the Vatican Museums and the Colosseum. So if you’re looking for a way to experience Rome on a budget, be sure to mark your calendar for the first Sunday of the month. You’ll be able to reach all of these places on a DIY tour if you’re able to travel by foot and willing to use the metro system.
Wake up early and get to the Colosseum
The Colosseum is one of Rome’s most iconic landmarks and a must-see for any first-time visitor. But with popularity comes crowds, so the best way to beat the masses is to arrive early. Admission tickets can be purchased in advance online, and there are a few different tour options available. The standard audio tour covers the basics of the Colosseum’s history and gives visitors an opportunity to explore at their own pace. For a more in-depth experience, there are also guided tours led by knowledgeable historians. These tours typically last around two hours and include access to areas that are not open to the general public. No matter which tour you choose, getting an early start (you may wish to grab breakfast and coffee to go so that you save time and have something to do while waiting in line) will help you make the most of your visit to this incredible ancient site.
Visit the Vatican City
St. Peter’s Basilica is one of the largest and most well-known churches in the world. Located in Vatican City, it is a popular tourist destination for those visiting Rome. While the church is free to enter, there are a few things to keep in mind if you want to make the most of your visit. First, be prepared for security checks. Bag check lines can get long, so it’s best to arrive early. Second, dress appropriately. Sleeveless shirts and shorts are not allowed inside the church. Third, don’t miss the cupola! Climb the 551 steps for some amazing views of Rome (just be sure to wear comfortable shoes). Lastly, take some time to explore Vatican City. This small country has a lot to offer, from museums and art galleries to gardens and fountains. A visit to St. Peter’s Basilica is sure to be a highlight of your trip to Rome.
Marvel at the Pantheon
The Pantheon is one of the most iconic Roman buildings and a must-see for anyone visiting Rome. Try to arrive early or late in the day to avoid the crowds. The Pantheon is one of Rome’s most popular tourist attractions, so it can get quite busy during the middle of the day. Arriving in the late afternoon or evening when most of the tour groups have left is best.
Take some time to enjoy the exterior before going inside. The Pantheon is an imposing building, and its enormous granite columns are truly impressive. Spend a few minutes admiring the architecture before heading inside. Once you’re inside, take a moment to adjust to the dim lighting. The Pantheon is designed so that sunlight streams in through the oculus, a hole in the centre of the dome. This creates a tranquil and serene atmosphere, so it’s worth taking a moment to appreciate it before moving on. Don’t forget to look up! The Pantheon’s dome is one of the largest in the world and is truly awe-inspiring. Make sure to look up when you’re inside and admire this engineering feat.
Finish up with a stroll through the streets & a stop at the Trevi Fountain
From the Pantheon, a beautifully preserved ancient temple, finish up with the Trevi Fountain, a magnificent Baroque masterpiece. Fortunately, these two landmarks are also conveniently located near each other, making it easy to visit both in one stop. The length of this walk is crudely about 1.5km or a mile, if you walked it without stopping at a brisk pace it would be only around 20 minutes. Start from the Pantheon, then stroll down the Via dei Coronari to the Trevi Fountain. After admiring the fountain, take some time to explore the surrounding neighbourhood. The streets are lined with charming cafes and shops, and you’ll definitely want to sample some of the famous Roman gelato!
