It’s hard to imagine there’s a more iconic destination than the ancient city of Rome. As you might imagine, a Rome travel guide in 48 hours is action-packed. There’s just so much to see, do, eat, and drink. The itinerary possibilities feel endless. And who knows? Maybe you can’t visit Rome in 48 hours. Just kidding. You absolutely can and this Rome Italy Travel guide will show you how.
Rome is known for its ancient ruins like the Coliseum. The city is also known for its art, the Vatican, and gastronomy. If you’re like me, 48 hours of walking around Rome will build up an appetite. So, referencing this Rome restaurant list will cone in handy. Wiuthat said, let’s dive into credit card to bring with your to Rome.
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Best Credit Cards to Use in Rome Italy
You have to appreciate what Amex and Chase have been doing during the pandemic. Citi, not so much. Amex and Chase have continually added new cards to their portfolios as well as cranked out welcome offer after welcome offer. With that said, the Amex Gold Card, Chase Sapphire Reserve, and Citi Premier Card are ideal candidates to bring with you to Rome.
You earn 4x points at restaurants (huge for a foodie city) plus US grocery stores. The Chase Sapphire Reserve earns 3x points on dining and travel (comes in handy when you’re transiting). You earn 3x points at restaurants, supermarkets, gas stations, air travel, and hotels.
When is the best time to visit Rome Italy?
May to October is the sweet spot in terms of when to visit Rome Italy. The highs average 72°-88° while the lows average 54°-67°. Rain is least likely in the summer months of June through August. Unfortunately, these months also happen to have the warmest temps.
We visited in April and lucked out with warmer-than-expected temperatures. You could wear shorts/pants during the day and at night. When we return for another visit, May/June and September/October are the months we’ll shoot for.
How to Fly to Rome Italy
Leonardo da Vinci–Fiumicino Airport (FCO) is the main airport serving Rome. Alitalia by far has the largest presence, in terms of number of flights, at this airport. Alitalia flies nonstop between Rome and Europe, Africa, Asia, North America, and South America.
You can fly Alitalia as well as major US airlines nonstop between Rome and the US. During our last trip, we flew into Venice (VCE) and out of Fiumicino Airport (FCO) back to the US. Examples of nonstop flights you can book between the US and Rome include:
- Rome (FCO) <> Boston, Los Angeles, Miami, New York–JFK, Washington–Dulles – Alitalia
- Rome (FCO) <> Dallas/Fort Worth, New York–JFK, Philadelphia – American Airlines
- Rome (FCO) <> Atlanta, New York–JFK – Delta Air Lines
- Rome (FCO) <> Newark – United Airlines
Where to Stay in Rome Italy
The four major points hotel brands in Hilton, Hyatt, IHG, and Marriott have hotels in Rome that you can book with points. Not all hotel loyalty programs are created equally so you’ll notice a disparity in the number of points required. Check out Best Hotel Loyalty Programs: The Most Rewarding to understand this dynamic in more detail.
We stayed at the Rome Marriott Park Hotel. While it’s a perfectly ok hotel, there are better options in Rome. IHG has the Hotel Indigo Rome – St. George. Hilton has the Aleph Rome Hotel and Rome Cavalieri. Marriott almost has too many to count, but ones that look interesting include The St. Regis Rome, The Westin Excelsior, The Regency, Elizabeth Unique Hotel, and The Pantheon Iconic Rome Hotel. To close this hotel list with Hyatt, Villa Spalletti Trivelli, Hotel Spendide Royal, and Palm Suite are on my list.
Best Places to Visit in Rome Italy
Day 1 of Rome Italy Travel
Once you’re fully caffeinated, head to the Colosseum early to start your day to see the ancient gladiatorial arena. Next, make the walk over to the Roman Forum, otherwise known as the heart of the Roman Empire. After the Roman Forum, check out Trevi Fountain (also cool to see at night). At this point, tlunch is likely in order so find a spot nearby. This Rome restaurant list shouldn’t lead you astray. Osteria de Fortunata is also quite good.
Post-lunch, continue heading north with a visit to the Spanish Steps. Hopefully you were able to snag a decent pictures without too many tourists at the steps. Next, walk southwest to a historic church and tombs called the Pantheon (also fun to see at night). End day one at Piazza Navona, originally home to a stadium in the first century AD.
Day 2 of Rome Italy Travel
Start your second 24 hours west across the River Tiber in Vatican City. St. Peter’s Basilica, the papal enclave, is up first. Make the short walk over to the Sistine Chapel to see the official residence of the pope. Grab a quick bite via a pizza slice to go or a sit down lunch.
At this point, it’s choose your own adventure. Rome has no shortage or museums and art to see. You could also try a Vespa city tour. The city has a rich history of offal gastronomy (organs) that you can taste. If aperitivo or a shaved ice is your style, there’s no shortage of spots to try. After a nice meal to wind down your 48 hours in Rome, San Lorenzo is your place for nightlife.
Rome Italy Travel FAQs
What should I see in Rome in 3 days?
48 hours gives you a flavor for the city. A third day could be dedicated to a day-trip, culinary experiences, or art/museuems.
How many days do you need in Rome?
Two full days should be plenty of time to see, do, taste, and drink everything on offer in Rome.
What is the best month to visit Rome?
May or October gets my vote for best month to visit Rome.
How much does a trip to Rome cost?
This entirely depends on your style. Luxury travel would be comparable to the likes of New York City, London, or Paris. You can also hit Rome on a budget.
How far is the Amalfi Coast from Rome?
The drive takes 3-4 hours or it’s a 50-minute flight.
How long does it take to travel from Rome to Positano?
The drive takes 3-4 hours or it’s a 50-minute flight.
How long does it take to travel from Rome to Tuscany?
It’s a 3-4 hour drive or a 5-6 hour train ride.
What are the Rome travel restrictions?
Find the latest travel restrictions here.
Conclusion on 48 Hours in Rome Italy
Any Rome travel guide is likely going to focus on seeing the ancient ruins and tasting the incredible gastronomy. Mix in a city Vespa tour, cocktails with a view, or a night out in Rome and you’re good to go. Rome is one of those cities that you feel like you never quite see it all when you visit.
What would you see and do during your Rome travel guide? Please let me know in the comments or by sending me an email on my contact page.
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