()
You just stepped off your tour bus and only have 24 hours to absorb iconic Rome. That’s plenty of time to take in the highlights and leave with many check marks on your bucket list! Opt for Rome’s Metro for its speed and ease of use. Here are the major sights by metro stop. It’s basically a big circle, so start anywhere!
Spagna (A Line)
A couple blocks from the metro exit will have you at the Piazza di Spagna near the Spanish Steps. At the foot, you’ll find the Fontana Barcaccia, a relatively small fountain picturing a seemingly sinking boat. The splendid Baroque staircase leads up to Obelisco Sallustiano.
You’re also in a prime, high-end, shopping district. Within a 10-minute walk, find stores such as Gucci, Prada and more. Window shop your way down Via Mario de’ Fiori to the Trevi Fountain.
This iconic landmark is the largest and one of the most picturesque fountains in all of Rome. Soak it in, throw in a coin, make a wish and head to your next stop!
After a short 10-minute walk west, you will find yourself at the Pantheon. You can’t help but marvel at the magnificent architecture, dome construction with the “Oculus” and the original marble floors.
From here, about a 20-minute walk across the Tiber River at the Ponte Sant’Angelo crossing, will be the spectacular Saint Angelo Castle on your right. Once a safe-house fortress for popes, it’s now a museum and worth a glimpse.
Ottaviano (A Line)
When you exit this stop off the A-metro line, take a 15-minute walk south, you will arrive at St. Peter’s Square, the entrance to Vatican City and home to St. Peter’s Basilica and the Sistine Chapel. There are English Vatican Museum and Sistine Chapels tour options that last approximately two hours. To move at your own pace, you can also opt for self-guided tours.
Colosseo (B Line)
This stop puts you practically right at the base of the Colosseum. Long before your favorite sports arenas were built, this amphitheater hosted the finest athletes of its time. To make it free for attendees, Emperors often paid for the events.
Next, head toward the splendid Roman Forum. During the Roman Empire, this was the social, political and commercial hub of the city. Stroll around to admire all the temples and ruins.
Rome may not have been built in a day, but it is definitely possible to experience a good portion of it in one. There will be time to rest afterward!
Tip: For tours of any location above, purchase skip-the-line tour tickets in advance. The time it saves is worth every euro!
Useful Links
Metro Info: www.rome.info/metro/ Tour tickets: www.viator.com
