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Perfect Weekend in Rome

Ancient ruins, Vatican treasures, and endless pasta in the Eternal City

📍Rome, Italy⏱️2 Days

Rome is a living museum where ancient history meets vibrant modern life. This weekend itinerary takes you through iconic landmarks, hidden piazzas, and authentic trattorias, ensuring you experience the best of the Eternal City in just 48 hours. From the Colosseum to the Vatican, prepare for a journey through 2,000 years of history.

📅Saturday

🌅Morning

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8:00 AM - Colosseum 🏛️ Start early at the world's most famous amphitheater (book skip-the-line tickets online with Roman Forum and Palatine Hill).
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10:00 AM - Roman Forum & Palatine Hill 🏺 Walk through ancient Rome's political and social center, then climb Palatine Hill for panoramic views.
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11:30 AM - Capitoline Museums 🎨 Quick visit to see iconic statues including the she-wolf nursing Romulus and Remus.

☀️Afternoon

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1:00 PM - Lunch in Monti 🍝 Try carbonara or cacio e pepe in this charming, artsy neighborhood near the Colosseum.
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2:30 PM - Trevi Fountain ⛲ Toss a coin to ensure your return to Rome (arrive early afternoon to avoid peak crowds).
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3:30 PM - Pantheon 🏛️ Marvel at the ancient temple's perfect dome with its oculus opening to the sky (free entry!).

🌆Evening

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5:00 PM - Piazza Navona 🎭 Relax at Rome's most beautiful baroque square with street performers and fountains.
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6:30 PM - Jewish Ghetto 🕍 Explore this historic neighborhood and try carciofi alla giudia (Jewish-style artichokes).
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8:00 PM - Dinner in Trastevere 🍷 Cross the river for authentic Roman dinner in this bohemian neighborhood with cobblestone streets.

📅Sunday

🌅Morning

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7:30 AM - Vatican Museums 🎨 Be first in line to see the Sistine Chapel before the crowds (book tickets online for 9 AM entry).
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10:30 AM - St. Peter's Basilica ⛪ Visit the world's largest church, climb the dome for incredible views (320 steps or take elevator halfway).
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12:00 PM - St. Peter's Square 📸 Take photos in Bernini's magnificent colonnade.

☀️Afternoon

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1:00 PM - Lunch near Vatican 🥖 Try supplì (fried rice balls) and pizza al taglio from a local bakery.
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2:30 PM - Castel Sant'Angelo 🏰 Walk along the Tiber to this historic fortress with rooftop terraces.
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4:00 PM - Spanish Steps & Via Condotti 👜 Climb the famous steps, window shop luxury boutiques on Rome's most elegant street.

🌆Evening

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6:00 PM - Villa Borghese Gardens 🌳 Peaceful stroll through Rome's most beautiful park (rent bikes if you prefer).
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7:30 PM - Aperitivo Time 🍹 Experience Roman aperitivo culture with drinks and free appetizers in Campo de' Fiori or Testaccio.
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9:00 PM - Final Dinner 🍕 Try authentic Roman pizza (thin and crispy) or splurge on a rooftop restaurant with views.

💡Essential Tips

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Roma Pass - 72-hour pass includes 2 free attractions and public transport (€52)
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Book Everything - Colosseum, Vatican Museums, and Borghese Gallery require advance tickets
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Dress Code - Shoulders and knees covered for churches (carry a scarf)
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Water Fountains - Fill up your bottle at nasoni fountains throughout the city
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Avoid Tourist Traps - Don't eat near major monuments, walk 5 minutes away for authentic food
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Metro Tips - Only 3 lines, but walking is often faster for central locations
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Free Sundays - First Sunday of month, Vatican Museums and some sites are free (very crowded)
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Siesta Time - Many shops close 1-4 PM, churches often close for lunch too

💰Budget Guide

Budget Breakdown: Expect €350-500 per person for the weekend (excluding accommodation). Accommodation: €100-180/night. Food: €60-90/day (pasta lunch €12-15, dinner €25-40). Transport: €18 for 72-hour pass. Attractions: €50-70/day. Rome can be affordable if you eat where locals eat.

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