A Perfect Weekend in Rome

Two days in Rome is just enough time to fall in love with the city, even if you’ll inevitably leave wanting more.

Day One: Ancient Rome and the Historic Core

Start early at the Colosseum before crowds build, then wander through the nearby Roman Forum to take in the scale of the ancient city. By afternoon, head toward the Pantheon and Piazza Navona, pausing for espresso at a small café along the way. Evenings are best spent people-watching over a long dinner near Trastevere, one of the city’s most atmospheric neighborhoods. On day two, dedicate the morning to the Vatican Museums if art and history are priorities, arriving as early as possible to beat the lines, then climb to a hillside viewpoint like the Gianicolo for sweeping rooftop views before winding down with gelato and a relaxed stroll through the historic center.