The Vatican Museums, home to over 70,000 artworks, charge €17 for entry, while the Sistine Chapel features Michelangelo's famous ceiling painted in 1512. A quick stroll from the Vatican to St. Peter's Basilica covers 1 kilometer, where visitors can marvel at the dome completed in 1590.

Published: 7/3/2025
Last Published: 1/26/2026
Updated: 2/13/2026
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What to See and Do in Rome in only 24 Hours?

The Vatican Museums, home to over 70,000 artworks, charge €17 for entry, while the Sistine Chapel features Michelangelo's famous ceiling painted in 1512. A quick stroll from the Vatican to St. Peter's Basilica covers 1 kilometer, where visitors can marvel at the dome completed in 1590.

Marcus Cent
Jan 26, 2026
4 min read
Visiting Rome on holiday and want to know how to spend the next 24 hours? The historical center is compact and easy to walk. Here’s a quick guide to what to see and do in just 24 hours. Start with an early breakfast, then head to Vatican City. Depending on your accommodation, it may be a walk, or you can take the metro. The Ottaviano-S. Pietro stop is just outside the Vatican. Line A of the Metro runs frequently, with trains arriving every few minutes. It’s a 5-minute walk from the Metro to both St Peter’s Square and the Vatican Museums. Once inside the museum, view the spectacular collection featuring famous sculptures and valuable masterpieces from the Renaissance. Remember, the Vatican has a strict dress code; cover your shoulders and knees. Key highlights of a 3-hour museum visit
1. Exclusive access to the museum through the Official Vatican Partner entrance.\n2. A view of the Sistine Chapel, Vatican, and the Papal collections.\n3. A look at the famous gallery of maps.\n4. Access to St. Peter’s Basilica\n5. Optional guided explanations on the stories behind the art.
What to See and Do in Rome in only 24 Hours?

What to See and Do in Rome in only 24 Hours?

After the museum, you may feel hungry. Instead of going to the nearest restaurant, consider joining one of the city's cooking classes! From 1 PM to 2 PM, participate in a pizza-making class in the city center. A chef will teach you how to prepare traditional Roman pizza authentically, using fresh ingredients. After making pizza, learn how to create the delicious tiramisù dessert. Once you’ve satisfied your hunger, enjoy some shopping. Stroll through the Galleria Alberto Sordi, near La Rinascente, which features stores representing leading global brands. A visit to the Colosseum is essential. Experience the largest amphitheater in the world on a one-hour skip-the-line tour. This site offers a glimpse into the days of the Roman Empire. Begin your tour from the underground level, typically open to a limited number of visitors. Walk through a maze of chambers for a close-up view of where fierce animals were caged. Your tour guides will share stories about gladiator battles. After exploring the underground, walk up to the arena level where battles were fought. After the arena, visit the Roman Forum, where your guide will explain the history behind the ruins that once formed the city’s political and commercial heart. Look out for the Arch of Titus and the Senate. If you enjoyed the Colosseum, consider walking up Palatine Hill, one of the Seven Hills of Rome. Walk through the pine trees and take in more sights of ancient Rome, once home to the wealthiest citizens. After Palatine Hill, you might be hungry again. Fortunately, Rome offers classic Italian dishes found throughout the country. Stroll past the Roman Forum into a lively neighborhood filled with bars and restaurants. This is a suggestion for a quick stop in Rome. Of course, there is much more to see and do in the city. Check out our Rome Tours for additional ideas.
"In just 24 hours, start at the Colosseum at sunrise, then wander through the Roman Forum. Enjoy a leisurely stroll through Trastevere for an authentic meal, and end your day with a sunset at the Spanish Steps."

Alessandra Rossi - Rome Travel Specialist

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External Links

Turismo Roma

Official tourism website for Rome, offering information on attractions, events, and itineraries.

CoopCulture

Official site for booking tickets to the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and other archaeological sites.

Vatican Museums

Official site of the Vatican Museums, providing details on exhibitions and ticket bookings.

ATAC Roma

Official site for public transport in Rome, including bus, tram, and metro information.

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Marcus Cent

Marcus Cent is the founder of Visit Network, a global portfolio of destination-focused travel sites. With over 25 years of experience in online travel and digital publishing, he specialises in destination research, tours and activities, and travel platforms. His writing is informed by extensive independent travel across Europe, Southeast Asia, and the Middle East, with a focus on practical, experience-based guidance.

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