If you’re looking for an Italian escape, there’s nothing quite like roaming around Rome – the history, the food, the architecture. And having recently spent my 33rd birthday there, it really felt like the perfect weekend getaway.
This was my second time visiting the “Eternal City” and even though I had visited before, there’s still always something new and historic to explore.
If you haven’t visited before, you’re in for a treat, and if you have, you’re also in for a treat, as my recent trip unveiled some pretty spectacular food, unmissable architecture and hidden rooftop bars that I couldn’t resist sharing, so read on for my recommendations on the best way to spend 48 hours in Rome…
Where to stay
citizenM Hotel Rome Isola Tiberina, from ÂŁ133 per night
Having stayed at a few citizenM hotels across Europe, I think the Rome one might be my new favourite location. Situated just off the river Tiber, this modern and stylish hotel offers a unique and comfortable stay and is a 13-minute walk to the Pantheon and loads of shopping districts. The rooms feature high-tech amenities like mood lighting, blackout blinds and smart TVs, and the hotel has a vibrant and lively atmosphere, with décor that always makes me ask the staff where it’s from (most comes from the brand Seletti, in case you were wondering).
With a 1-min check-in, extra-large cloud-like beds, free Wi-Fi, a 24-hour rooftop bar, and an array of communal spaces for relaxing and working, it’s the perfect choice when you’re exploring the city. Oh, and if you’ve opted for the buffet breakfast, you HAVE to try the freshly made maritozzi which you fill with cream yourself. Buon Appetito!
What to do
2025 is going to be a big year in Rome, as the city will be entering its Year of Jubilee, a celebration which only happens every 25 years. Expect extra tours on offer, with the Vatican City Pass granting access to see the open Holy Door of St. Peter’s Basilica, which is only ever opened during a Holy Year.
For a more Gladiator-feel to your tour, we can’t recommend a visit to Palatine Hill enough and this tour couples it with a guide through the Colosseum Arena Floor and the Roman Forum.
Whatever you decide to do, walking around Rome by foot is the best way to explore and there are plenty of free, self-guided tours available depending on what sights you want to see.
Where to eat
, Piazza Trilussa
Located in the vibrant Testaccio neighbourhood lies Trapizzino which offers a unique twist on a Roman street food classic. A trapizzino is a hybrid pizza and sandwich, turned into a triangular pizza pocket, and filled with generous servings of Roman favourites like pollo alla cacciatora (chicken with tomatoes, olives, and herbs) to more inventive options like trippa alla romana (Roman-style tripe). The flavour combinations are so good, I visited twice on my weekend trip.
A visit to Rome isn’t complete without tasting your way through some specialty pasta dishes and this hotspot is perfect for feeling like a local. Grab a plate of their creamy Cacio e Pepe and pair with a glass of rich Chianti Classico. There’s also plenty of cured meats to pick from: prosciutto di Parma, guanciale, salami and an assortment of hard cheeses, too.
Where to drink
, Radisson Collection Hotel, Roma Antica
There’s a secret rooftop bar atop this hotel which offers the most spectacular views across Rome that I couldn’t gatekeep. Try to visit at dusk to watch the sunset, and request the corner seat, overlooking the impressive Victor Emmanuel II National Monument. As well as beautiful views across the city, they offer delicious Italian bar snacks (think olives, taralli, nuts), small tapas-style plates and classic cocktails for whatever you fancy.
Where to shop
There’s no shortage of beautiful Italian shops in Rome – filled with foodie gifts, home trinkets and more. But if you’re looking for a really unique souvenir to take back with you, this shop is like Aladdin’s cave, filled to the brim with beautiful kitchen wares, glassware and small gifts to saviour forever. I picked up this gorgeous Italian Murano glass for liqueurs and love the reminder of my trip to Rome every time I drink from it.
If you're considering a quick getaway and in need of some inspiration, take a look at our collection of last-minute escapes.
More city break inspiration:
- How to spend 48 hours in Madrid
