Rome in 72 hours

Last updated: 15 July 2023

Visiting Rome has been on my list since I was a very little girl.  Dreaming of home-made hand rolled ravioli and then being whisked off my feet by a handsome Italian man on a Vespa.

We had just a long weekend to see Rome.  This is our hit list for essential Rome in 72 hours.

Images of the Colosseum, St Peters Basilica, the Sistine chapel and that famous ceiling by Michelangelo had been only a dream for decades so I was more than excited to head to Rome.

The Colosseum

The Colosseum was a big bucket list item for me.  Item 25 in fact.  I spent hours here, wandering around taking in the atmosphere of the place and let it all sink in. That could easily make my top 5, but I think it’s a completely separate realm.

Pantheon

One of the best-preserved buildings in Rome.  Officially it’s a church, so modest dress is a must  – respectfully cover shoulders to knees.  Free to visit.  Stand in the middle of this square building and look up to the dome which features a oculus – an open hole to the sky.

Campo de’ Fiori

A square south of Piazza Navona. A daily market held here.  Fresh produce, flowers, lemon-cello and trinkets are all sold here. This is a place to come, eat and be seen.

Spanish Steps

I stumbled upon the Spanish Steps while a military band was performing.  The crowds were unbelievable! My personal opinion is that unless you’re a Hepburn/Peck fan and want to recreate your own version of Roman Holiday and have icecream on the steps, then give the Spanish Steps a miss.  This site is completely overrated and not deserving of Rome in 72 hours.

Trevi Fountain

One of the most famous fountains in the world. It’s said if you throw a coin over your shoulder into the Trevi, that you will return to Rome.  Of course I did it!  I contributed to the 3,000 Euros Rome makes A DAY from the tradition. I came here both day and night, it was always bedlam. Insider tip: Watch for pickpockets.

Roman Forum

One of the most important and oldest ancient sites in the world.  The Roman kingdom’s earliest shrines can be found here. A former royal residence, the Temple of Vesta (7th century BC!), as well as a complex for the Vestal Virgins.

Much of the area is in ruins and roped off.  You do have to use your imagination for much of this area.

Appian Way

The Appian Way was one of the most important ancient Roman roads.   It’s also the place to visit the Catacombs.  Catacombs are underground ancient burial systems of passages on top of each other. They lie up to 20m below the surface in area of more than 2.4 sq kms.

Take a tour and descend as many as four stories on narrow steps and wind your way through narrow passages.  It’s eery and poorly lit but at the same time, incredible to think that these ancient grave yards housed Pontiffs, and half a million people centuries ago.

Your say:

What’s your one must-see for Rome in 72 hours?

Rome really does have so much to offer.  Pack your walking shoes and simply wander.  Don’t be afraid to get lost.  If you’re going in summer, pack your own water as Rome can get really hot.