City BuddyCityBuddy
English
Rome, Italy - Colosseum and Roman Forum cover photo

2-Day Rome for Off-the-Beaten-Path Explorers

💎Hidden Gems & Local Spots
2 daysspring

Explore Rome through hidden courtyards, secret viewpoints, underground scenes, and local hangouts, combined with key historic sites and a free walking tour for orientation.

|
Our #1 travel tip

Before Day 1: Book a FREE walking tour

Free walking tours. Yes, actually free. No credit card needed. No catch.

Local guide, 2-3 hours

Major sights, hidden gems, local stories

100% tip-based

Guides earn only tips, so they give their absolute best

You tip what feels right

At the end, just tip whatever you feel is right

I've done these in dozens of cities and they've been the highlight of almost every trip. If you're visiting Rome, Italy, do this on your first day. You'll thank me later.

Adrijana, founder of City Buddy
Browse FREE walking tours
Day 1Hidden Gems and Local Scenes
Morning
Free Walking Tour

~2 hours

Start with a local guide to get oriented and discover lesser-known stories of Rome

Exploring ancient streets and iconic landmarks by foot offers an immersive experience like no other. You'll typically discover fascinating stories and historical insights shared by local guides, bringing the rich culture and architecture to life. Strolling at a leisurely pace allows for spontaneous stops at charming cafes and bustling piazzas, enriching your understanding of the vibrant local lifestyle.

Book FREE walking tour
Late Morning

Campo de' Fiori Market

Campo de' Fiori Market

Explore this lively market to taste local street food and buy fresh produce

4.4(68k reviews)~1.5 hours
Afternoon

Villa Farnesina

Villa Farnesina

A Renaissance villa with stunning frescoes in Trastevere neighborhood, less visited by tourists

4.6(3k reviews)~1.5 hours
Late Afternoon
Secret Courtyards of Trastevere

~1.5 hours

Wander through hidden courtyards and quiet corners in Trastevere

Exploring tucked-away courtyards offers a unique glimpse into the everyday life and history nestled within charming urban enclaves. You'll typically wander through serene, sunlit spaces filled with ancient walls, lush greenery, and glimpses of local artistry. Local guides often share stories and historical context that enrich the sensory experience, highlighting why such tranquil spots are integral to the city's character.

Evening
Local Trastevere Hangout

~2 hours

Dine and relax in an authentic neighborhood trattoria popular with locals

Meals

Recommended traditional local cuisine

Lunch
Street food at Campo de' Fiori Market
5 EUR
Dinner
Traditional Trattoria in Trastevere
20 EUR
Use public transport or walk in Trastevere neighborhood; taxi for longer trips if needed
Day 2Views, History, and Underground Rome
Morning

Ponte Milvio and Hidden Walkways

Ponte Milvio and Hidden Walkways

Stroll this historic bridge area with romantic lock gates and explore quiet nearby paths

4.5(17k reviews)~2 hours
Late Morning

Palazzo Barberini

Palazzo Barberini

Admire Baroque art and architecture, including works by Caravaggio

4.6(9k reviews)~1.5 hours
Afternoon

Underground Basilica di San Clemente

Underground Basilica di San Clemente

Explore layers of history underground from a 4th-century basilica to a Mithraic temple

4.7(8k reviews)~1.5 hours
Late Afternoon

Janiculum Hill Viewpoint

Janiculum Hill Viewpoint

Enjoy panoramic views of Rome away from the crowds

4.7(25k reviews)~1 hours
Evening
Authentic Roman Osteria

~2 hours

Dine at a local osteria favored by Romans for authentic cuisine

Meals

Recommended traditional local cuisine

Lunch
Light meal at local cafe near Palazzo Barberini
15 EUR
Dinner
Roman Osteria dinner
25 EUR
Use metro and buses for inter-neighborhood travel, walk in historic centers

Export Your Trip

Get your trip plan as a PDF with maps and a CSV spreadsheet.

Loading

Budget Breakdown

Accommodation / night$88
Food / day$30
Transport / day$10
Activities / day$10
Daily total$138
Trip total$276

Accommodation based on local mid-range hotel, food includes meals and snacks, transport includes public transport and occasional taxi, activities cover free walking tour and entry fees

Pre-Trip Checklist

Documents

Booking

Packing

Health

Connectivity

Get eSIM for Rome, Italy

The easiest and most affordable way to get mobile internet wherever you travel.