Spend your next minibreak wandering the historical streets of the Eternal City with our 48 hour guide to visiting Rome.
Wake up every morning to an amazing view of the Colosseum from your bedroom window at Palazzo Manfredi – Relais & Chateaux. Set in the perfect location for most of Rome’s ancient attractions, this hotel is ideal for a quick getaway. Right on the doorstep, walk out into the Celio neighbourhood for a great selection of authentic local trattorias, wine bars and pizzerias. The rooms are top notch, kitted out in autumnal tones odes to the Eternal City in the form of busts and Palladian wallpaper. Book in now with Ryanair Rooms for a night to remember!
Palazzo Manfredi – Relais & Chateaux – Via Labicana 125
The Pantheon – Piazza della Rotonda
One of the best preserved ancient structures in the city, The Pantheon is a must-see when visiting Rome. Originally a temple dedicated to pagan gods, the building has been used as a church since the 7th century. Famous for having the largest unsupported dome in the world, it was constructed by Emperor Hadrian an estimated 2,000 years ago. Fronted by a rectangular porch held up by huge columns, the interior of the church is just as impressive as its imposing outside. A real Roman icon, a visit to The Pantheon is guaranteed to be a highlight of your minibreak.
The Colosseum – Piazza del Colosseo 1
Located right in the centre of town, the oval amphitheatre is one of the most recognisable sites in the world and attracts millions of tourists every year. Also known as the Flavian Amphitheatre after the era in which it was built, the structure is made from travertine, tuff and brick-faced concrete and is the largest of its kind. The Colosseum has been used variously for gladiator combat, executions and public spectacles. Estimated to have once held 80,000 people, it’s well worth taking the time to book into a tour and have a peek inside the walls.
St. Peter’s Basilica – Piazza San Pietro
Potentially the most significant religious building in the world, the basilica is an Italian Renaissance church sitting in the Vatican City. Standing at the far end of St. Peter’s Square, the building has a beautifully decorated front entrance dotted with statues of the Apostles and Jesus. With contributions from both Michelangelo and Bernini, the inside of the structure is a real sight for sore eyes. Be sure to climb to the top of the dome and snap a panorama of St. Peter’s Square.
Trevi Fountain – Piazza di Trevi
Designed by architect Nicola Salvi in the 18th century, the Trevi Fountain sits at the junction of three roads. Made from white travertine stone like the Colosseum, the structure is one of the most famous Baroque fountains in the world. Paying tribute to the Roman God Oceanus who can be seen riding his chariot, the fountain is lavishly decorated and sculptured. Pick up a penny, throw it over your shoulder and make a wish – you never know, it might just come true.
Roman Forum – Via della Salara Vecchia 5/6
Once the centre of religious and public life in the city, the former market place is a site of great historical significance to Rome. The rectangular forum is surrounded by the ruins of several ancient buildings, squares, arches and temples, most of which can still be seen in bits and pieces. Located next to the Colosseum, the site that began construction in the 7th century BC, is a definitely one to add to your list of what to do in Rome.
The Spanish Steps – Piazza di Spagna
Connecting the Piazza di Spagna to Piazza Trinita dei Monti, the 135 Spanish Steps are a real Roman treasure. Framed by stone walls, at the top of the staircase you’ll find a large crucifix obelisk and Trinita dei Monti church. At the bottom of the steps, notice the many inscriptions that have been carved into the stone and take some time to explore Piazza di Spagna with its many cafés and shops. The ideal spot for a holiday snap, position yourself on a step and say cheese.
Sistine Chapel – Vatican City
Renowned for its intricate frescos, the Sistine Chapel is in the Apostolic Palace and is part of the Vatican museum complex. A masterclass in wall painting, its ceiling is covered in the work of Michelangelo, one of Italy’s most famous artists and is unrivalled in its attention to detail. Whether you’re religious or not, the Sistine Chapel is a treasure trove of historical gems waiting to be discovered.
Pierluigi – Piazza de’Ricci
A go-to for locals and tourists alike, Pierluigi is a seafood restaurant unlike any other. Celebrity favourite and ‘posh’ hotspot, the restaurant is set on one side of a pretty, cobbled piazza with an outdoor terrace ideal for an al-fresco lunch. Located in the heart of the city, take a break from sight-seeing and taste a slice of Rome’s culinary scene at this traditional trattoria. Sit in a historic setting dating back to the Renaissance and watch the world go by on the picture perfect streets of Italy’s capital.
Drink Kong – Piazza San Martino Al Monti 8
The ultimate spot for a night on the tiles, Drink Kong has been the talk of the town since it opened. Decked out in cool neon lights and stylish décor, the 300 square foot space is the place to be when the sun goes down. Inspired by 80s arcade games, the four rooms are usually heaving with eager party goers and classy cocktail drinkers alike. Run by Patrick Pistolesi, one of Rome’s leading bar tenders, you’ll be served nothing less than perfection when you order here. Featuring a Japanese omakase room kept empty for bespoke tastings and masterclasses, there’s not much this spot doesn’t offer.
Heading to Rome soon? Be sure to tag us in your photos of what to do when visiting Rome, using the hashtag #ryanairstories for the chance to be featured on Ryanair’s social media channels.
Flights to Rome
- Lucy Norris
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