“Better to see something once than hear about it a thousand times.” – Asian Proverb

Rome provided me with an array of experiences during my time in Italy—both enlightening and challenging. This journey began when I boarded a train from Grado, only to realize I had forgotten my credit card with my partner.

As my partner attended several conferences, I was preparing for my first solo travel experience beyond North America. After a few hours on the train, during which I struggled to communicate with my fellow passengers, I finally arrived in Rome.

Overwhelmed by the circumstances, I rushed to the nearest restroom, where I found solace in a stall and broke down in tears. I felt lost, unsure of my hotel’s location, how to reach it, and questioned my decision to travel alone to such an expansive city; I was in a state of distress.

Eventually, I composed myself and located a payphone to contact my hotel for directions. I had purposely chosen a hotel near the airport for convenience, but it turned out to be far from the city center and poorly connected. A valuable piece of advice: If time permits, opt for accommodation within the city for a more enriching experience.

After a restful night, I was ready to explore Rome with a packed itinerary for my single day. Here are the top sights you should experience if you’re in Rome for just one day.

Top Attractions to See in Rome in One Day

Sistine Chapel

Plan to arrive early, as there will be a queue; however, the extraordinary frescoes make the wait worthwhile.

The Sistine Chapel is breathtaking, although the experience can be somewhat diminished in an overcrowded environment where constant reminders discourage photography. Despite the crowd, I was still captivated by the ancient and meticulously preserved artwork.

I had envisioned a serene chapel where I could admire Michelangelo’s miraculous ceiling, painted between 1508 and 1512, but reality was different. The sheer volume of visitors diminished the magic of the experience. Nevertheless, if you can overlook the crowds, visiting the Sistine Chapel remains a must.

Trevi Fountain and the Spanish Steps

The Trevi Fountain is one of Rome’s oldest water sources, constructed from the same stone as the Colosseum. Interestingly, the coins cast into the fountain every evening are collected and donated to Caritas, a charity. Reflecting on this adds an uplifting dimension to the visit.

Pantheon

The Pantheon provides a quick stop on your journey through Rome. Capture an Instagram-worthy image through the oculus before proceeding to experience the Colosseum.

Upon arriving at the Colosseum, I felt quite adept with the subway system. However, stepping out to see the magnificent structure elicited an intense sense of awe as I checked off the top item on my bucket list.

Colosseum

At the Colosseum, various tour guides were vying for attention. I encountered a charming Australian gentleman who offered tickets for a guided tour of the Colosseum and its surrounding ruins. In a moment of spontaneity, I purchased a ticket for 20 Euros.

This decision turned out to be fortuitous. The tour guide, an older gentleman, shared extensive historical insights about the Colosseum, engagingly delivering his narrative, even as some participants grew impatient. His witty remark, “Rome wasn’t built in a day,” effectively quelled their complaints.

I couldn’t help but laugh, which certainly lightened the atmosphere. The tour granted a profound sense of connection to the historical significance of the site. Listening to tales of ancient games, I could almost envision the events taking place in the grand stands. The follow-up tour of the ruins was equally informative, with a young woman detailing the area’s rich history.

Final Thoughts

Rome offers a wealth of experiences, and I aspire to visit the city again, along with exploring more of Italy. If you find yourself with just one day in Rome, prioritizing the major attractions will provide you with an initial taste of the city’s splendor, undoubtedly leaving you yearning for more.

After your one-day tour, consider taking a train to spend two days in Florence.