On Day 2 in Rome, I explored some of the city’s most iconic ancient sites, unique basilicas, and peaceful green spaces. Here’s a detailed recap of my day, including some tips for lunch spots and travel logistics.
.
.
Morning: Ancient Rome and Scenic Overlooks
- Circus Maximus & Belvedere Romolo E Remo
I began my morning at the historic Circus Maximus, once the largest stadium in ancient Rome, where chariot races drew crowds in the thousands. Although it’s now more of an open park, the site’s history is still palpable. For a scenic view, I headed to the Belvedere Romolo e Remo nearby, where I could look out over the Circus and the surrounding Roman landscape.
.
.
- Scavi del Circo Massimo (paid)
Next, I visited Scavi del Circo Massimo, the underground ruins of the stadium, offering a glimpse into the engineering marvels of ancient Rome.
This paid tour dives deep into the history of the structure, with exhibits showcasing artifacts and reconstructions of the grand chariot races.
- Colosseum
A short walk away, the Colosseum was next. Even though I had seen countless photos, the real thing was breathtaking. I recommend booking tickets in advance to skip the lines and making time for a guided tour, which provides fascinating details about the gladiators and events held in this ancient arena.
.
.
*Travel Tip: For a smoother experience in Rome, it’s highly recommended to purchase tickets online in advance for popular attractions like the Colosseum, the Vatican, etc. Not only will this save you time by avoiding long lines, but it also ensures you don’t miss out on entry due to limited availability—especially during peak travel seasons. Many sites offer timed entry slots, so booking ahead allows you to plan your day efficiently and enjoy your visit with ease.
.
Midday: Basilicas and Historical Parks
- Basilica di San Clemente
Rather than visiting the Pantheon, I chose to see the Basilica di San Clemente, a lesser-known gem with layers of history. This church is unique in that it was built on top of a fourth-century basilica, which in turn was built over an ancient Roman temple. The frescoes and mosaics here are beautiful and well worth a stop.
.
.
- Parco del Colle Oppio
After the basilica, I walked through Parco del Colle Oppio, a peaceful spot with views of the Colosseum in the distance. This park has Roman ruins scattered throughout, making it a scenic place to unwind or snap some photos.
Lunch: A Stop Near Villa Torlonia
After a busy morning, I had lunch at Villa Torlonia.
I packed some food with me to enjoy in the park, which was a lovely way to relax among the greenery.
.
However, if you’re looking for some nearby options, here are a few recommendations:
• Mamma Mia Ristorante Pizzeria: A casual spot with a variety of pizza and pasta options.
• Il Margutta RistorArte: Known for its vegetarian options, just a short walk from Villa Torlonia.
• La Tavernetta 48: For traditional Italian fare in a cozy setting.
.
Afternoon: Villa Torlonia, Final Stops
- Park Villa Torlonia
I spent some time exploring Villa Torlonia, a serene park with historical buildings and sculptures scattered throughout.
.
.
.
This area is less crowded, making it ideal for a peaceful break from Rome’s busy tourist spots.
.
.
.
After Villa Torlonia, I hopped on the subway to head back and reflect on the day’s adventures. Rome has so much to offer beyond the main tourist attractions, and it was refreshing to explore some of the quieter corners and green spaces of the city.
- Basilica of Saint Mary Major & Colonna della Pace a Santa Maria Maggiore
Moving on, I visited the Basilica of Saint Mary Major, one of the four major papal basilicas in Rome. It features stunning mosaics and is an architectural highlight in the city. Just outside, the Colonna della Pace provides a beautiful photo spot.
.
.
- Piazza Repubblica
I then walked to Piazza Repubblica, a grand square known for its impressive fountain and semi-circular portico. The architecture here is stunning, and the energy of the square is vibrant, with cafes and shops lining the streets.
.
.
- Basilica di Santa Maria degli Angeli e dei Martiri
At Santa Maria degli Angeli e dei Martiri, I admired the unique design by Michelangelo. This basilica, converted from the ruins of the Baths of Diocletian, features an elegant and slightly unconventional layout inside.
.
.
- Porta Pia
I ended this section of my day at Porta Pia, an ornate gate in Rome’s ancient walls designed by Michelangelo. The history and design of this structure are fascinating, marking the evolution of Rome’s city defenses.
.
.
Dinner at Taverna Cestia: A True Taste of Rome
After a full day of exploring Rome, we found ourselves at Taverna Cestia, a charming spot that perfectly captures the essence of traditional Roman cuisine. The restaurant’s warm atmosphere made it an ideal setting for an evening meal, and we were excited to dive into some local favorites.
.
.
We started with classic Roman antipasti: Fiori di Zucca (zucchini flowers) and Carciofi alla Romana (fried artichokes). The zucchini flowers were stuffed and delicately fried, providing a crisp exterior and a creamy, flavorful filling. The artichokes, a Roman specialty, were perfectly seasoned and crispy on the outside.
.
.
For our main courses, we opted for Fettuccine with Mussels and Pecorino and a beautifully grilled squid and puntarelle—a distinctive Roman chicory salad with an anchovy-based dressing that added a delightful briny, bitter kick.
The fettuccine was rich and savory, with the pecorino cheese adding a creamy texture to the dish, perfectly complemented by the fresh mussels.
.
.
To pair with our meal, we chose a local white wine that balanced each course’s flavors beautifully.
Its crisp, light profile was the perfect companion for our seafood selections.
For dessert, we indulged in Zabaglione Semifreddo with Salted Caramel.
This frozen Italian dessert was both creamy and light, with the salted caramel providing a hint of sweetness and depth. It was the perfect end to a satisfying Roman dinner.
.
.
If you’re looking for an authentic dining experience in Rome that highlights local flavors, Taverna Cestia is a must-visit. Each dish brought a taste of Rome’s culinary heritage to the table, making it an evening to remember.
.
This day’s itinerary allowed for a balance between iconic historical sites and lesser-known spots, with plenty of time to enjoy Rome’s beautiful parks and peaceful basilicas. Stay tuned for more tips and hidden gems in my full blog post—check the link in bio for more!