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Self-Guided Rome Walking Tours

rome walking tour self guided

In this post, we provide you with free, self-guided central Rome walking tours with a printable sightseeing map as well as an audio tour option for smartphones.

You can use these to discover the city at your own pace (or) as a preview for what you will see on a live-guided tour.

Check out our free walking tours of Rome .

We have 4 other self-guided tours that we hope you will consider.

  • Vatican City + St. Peter's Basilica
  • Jewish Ghetto

SELF-GUIDED TOUR OF ROME'S CENTRE

This self-guided tour will lead you through some of Rome’s main attractions, from the Spanish Steps through Trevi Fountain to Campo de’ Fiori.

All in all, there are lots of sights along the way covering more than two thousand years of history.

Self Guided Tour Rome

Here are a few of the sites you can expect to see on this tour:

  • Piazza Navona
  • The Pantheon
  • Trevi Fountain
  • Spanish Steps
  • Venice Square
  • Campo de’ Fiori

rome walking tour self guided

We also have our own audio tour where you can find a more in-depth GPS-led audio tour version. Here's a sample.

Purchase an audio tour here

There are also daily guided free tours both day and night that really operate on the pay-what-you-like model. 

Tours listed below are run through us. More guided tours are available here .

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This 15-stop, self-guided tour will lead you through some of Rome’s main attractions, from the Spanish Steps through Trevi Fountain to Campo de’ Fiori, with lots of sights along the way covering more than two thousand years of history.

It’s best to set aside 2-3 hours for walking this route.

You’ll be seeing plenty of both tourists and Romans as you walk, and both groups make good people-watching, not to mention plenty of chances for photos, coffee, gelato, and historical color.

Walking Map of Central Rome

Click on the map to enlarge or download it to a smartphone.

If you haven’t done much walking in the older parts of Rome yet, the ancient layout of these streets can be confusing.

Streets are winding, pedestrians and cars often share space, and you’ll regularly find your way into piazzas, the large open squares Rome is organized around.

You can get this tour with directions in 3 ways:

  • Download this tour to the Google Maps App ( link ).
  • Download a PDF version .
  • Purchase an Audio Tour

We will be orienting you relative to buildings and with the help of street names, which you’ll see on signs up above eye level.

As far as timing, this tour can be enjoyed any time the sun is up, and some of the piazzas are lively even after dark.

Crowds can be a limiting factor throughout this walk; if you want to start things off on a quiet note, the Spanish Steps, one of our first stops, tend to be at their quietest early in the morning, briefly during lunch, and around sunset.

rome walking tour self guided

The tour begins at the Spagna metro station.

As you emerge from the western side of the building, you can look to your right and get a full view of the Villa Medici, not far down the street.

Rome Travel Tips Facebook Group

1. VILLA MEDICI

The Villa Medici, along with the Villa Borghese (which houses the Galleria Borghese) beyond it, stands on the site of the Gardens of Lucullus, created more than two thousand years ago, back when Romans saw gardening as a strange new hobby imported from Persia.

But the house you see today is built in 1576 after the land had been a quiet vineyard for centuries.

Villa Medici Rear

Villa Medici Rear

Houses like the Villa Medici were designed with ancient styles in mind, and inside, they often displayed the ancient relics found in the earth dug up to lay foundations.

The Medicis and Borgheses were some of Italy’s most powerful families during the Renaissance and beyond.

The Medici clan included bankers, nobility, and popes. But they’re remembered mostly for their support for the arts and sciences.

The Villa Medici offers guided tours daily, lasting about 90 minutes and available in different languages at different times.

It’s open every day but Monday and standard admission is 12 Euros.

Villa Borghese is home to the third-largest public park in Rome; admission is free and it’s accessible from dawn to dusk daily.

There are several things to see and do here in the park.

rome walking tour self guided

Most notably, it’s home to the Galleria Borghese , where you can see plenty of art and artifacts from both the Classical and Renaissance eras, plus several other museums and galleries.

The Villa Giulia contains a museum to the Etruscans, a rival culture of the early Romans.

In addition to the museums, there’s a zoo and a replica of Shakespeare’s Globe Theater on the grounds.

2. SPANISH STEPS

For many foreigners, the Spanish Steps are visual shorthand for Rome; they’re used in lots of movies and TV shows, starting with Roman Holiday back in 1953.

This was a natural hillside as recently as 1723. Before the steps were built, this was the slope of the Pincio Hill, one of many hills around Rome.

The 138 steps were built in the 18th century and got their name due to the adjacent Spanish Embassy.

Unfortunately as of 2019, you can no longer sit on the Spanish Steps. Violaters can receive a fine as high as €400.

Eating on the steps is also banned.

At the bottom of the steps sits the Piazza di Spagna and the Fontana della Barcaccia , which means “Fountain of the Long Boat.”

The legend goes that the design of the fountain comes from a boat washed into this piazza by a flood of the Tiber River.

SPANISH STEPS

This is the first of many fountains that we’ll see, and it’s designed by Pietro Bernini in the 17 th century, before the steps.

Pietro Bernini is the father of famous architect Gian Lorenzo Bernini, whose work we’ll also see plenty of.

When you get to the bottom, look up the stairs for a view of that French church at the top, called Trinita dei Monti.

If you look to the right side of the steps from the bottom, you’ll see a peach-colored building, the Keats-Shelley Museum. English poet John Keats arrived to live here in 1820.

If a café stop is in order before you go any further, the Antico Caffe Greco near the bottom of the stairs was one of his hangouts.

When you’re done here, walk away from the steps and past the fountain. Turn left and you’ll see the piazza narrowing toward a freestanding column, the Column of the Immaculate Conception.

3. COLUMN OF THE IMMACULATE CONCEPTION AND PIAZZA MIGNANELLI

The Column of the Immaculate Conception is the centerpiece of the small Piazza Mignanelli that opens from the corner of the Piazza di Spagna.

COLUMN OF THE IMMACULATE CONCEPTION

The statue on top of the column is a bronze Virgin Mary. Mary, the mother of Jesus, occupies a central place in Catholic belief.

And this statue of her was built in 1857 to commemorate the Pope’s recent declaration of the Doctrine of the Immaculate Conception: the idea that Mary, uniquely among human beings, was born without original sin.

Original sin is visible in the monument in the form of the snake Mary is stepping on.

Below her are the authors of the four Biblical gospels, and still further down are four prophets said to have foretold her birth, with reliefs depicting four phases of her story below them.

Depending on when you’re here, there’s a small chance you’ll see a wreath of flowers on the statue.

December 8th is the Feast of the Immaculate Conception; each year on that day, the Pope visits this spot along with the head of the fire department, which originally erected the column, and they leave the wreath behind.

The building beyond the column is the Palazzo di Propaganda Fide – the Palace of the Propagation of the Faith.

This is a Vatican property – you can tell from the yellow flag on the front – and for a long time, it was the home of a church division responsible for missionary work and evangelism.

4. AQUEDUCT RUINS

Looking down at this spot, you can see something that an ancient Roman would have had to look up at.

The aqueducts – imperial Rome’s famous system for bringing clean water into the city – relied on gravity to work.

So, water was sometimes flowing over the heads of the people who were going to consume it, with roads passing under the arches you can see the top of from here.

Being by a river, Rome has flooded many times through the millennia, piling sediment each time, hiding but also preserving the ancient city.

The fence here limits the view, but above the arch, you can maybe see an inscription with the word “Germanicus” just readable at the near end.

This is one of the names of the emperor Claudius, who the inscription credits with rebuilding this stretch of the Aqua Virgo, the system of aqueducts built to bring water to the newly urbanizing Campus Martius after it was incorporated into the city.

AQUEDUCT RUINS

To achieve this, Roman engineers had to build a system of gentle slopes across long distances of irregular terrain, including crossing rivers, bringing convenience, comfort, and health within reach of Rome’s residents.

This knowledge was lost with the fall of Rome; with the Renaissance, writings about the aqueducts were rediscovered.

Across Via del Nazareno from these ruins is a tiny door, used to enter the rebuilt Acqua Vergine, the Renaissance replacement for the ancient system.

And in a moment, you’ll see another piece of that system: a fountain meant to put this reborn marvel of engineering on display.

5. TREVI FOUNTAIN

There’s likely to be a crowd around when you reach the Trevi Fountain, and even in the absence of people, the water can make it a loud spot. Find a view of the fountain from the front.

rome walking tour self guided

The main statue in the fountain depicts the god Oceanus. Below him, you can see his retinue of tritons, men mixed with fish.

The one on the right is blowing a shell to announce their arrival. And the wild creature each of them is struggling with is called a hippocampus, a horse mixed with a fish.

In this case, they also have wings. Greco-Roman mythology tells that horses were the creation of the god of the ocean.

The fountain is the end of the Acqua Vergine aqueduct, the recreation of the ancient Aqua Virgo aqueduct. And the design of the fountain tells that story.

Above the statues, on either side, you can see reliefs – the one on the left is a man with a scroll, showing plans for the aqueducts, and on the right, a woman points out a flow of freshwater to a group of men.

She’s the Virgo, the young woman, in Aqua Virgo – the legend is that when Roman surveyors looked for a source of water, a young woman led them to a spring, and the resulting aqueduct was named for her.

The statue on the left of Oceanus represents Abundance – she has a cornucopia full of fruit, and on the ground beside her is an urn spilling water.

On the right is Health, who’s holding a bowl with a snake drinking from it – snakes were ancient symbols of medicine.

Overall, the story is of the power of Rome to tame the forces of nature and bring them to the benefit of the city’s people.

As you see it, the fountain dates from 1762, and it started as a showpiece for the Renaissance project of rebuilding the aqueducts.

But it was such a massive endeavor that it took more than a century, plus many financiers and designers, to make it happen.

And it takes steady renovations to keep it looking sharp – as of the latest one in 2015, the fountain is lit at night.

Like the Spanish Steps, the Trevi Fountain owes some of its fame to a film – in this case, La Dolce Vita by Federico Fellini (see the video above).

If you’ve seen the movie, you won’t be surprised to hear that dancing in the fountain, or entering it in any way, is illegal.

And as for drinking: yes, these fountains were once the source for public drinking water, but for your own sake, wait for one of Rome’s other great works of water infrastructure, the nasoni – little drinking fountains located all over town.

Trevi Fountain is home to lots and lots of coins - visitors observe a tradition of throwing change into the fountain, hoping for good luck and the promise of a return to Rome.

Usually, coins are thrown backward over your shoulder, so make sure the coast is clear before you participate in this tradition, and watch out for other coin-tossers nearby.

And the money, totaling more than three thousand Euros per day, goes to Caritas Roma, a Catholic charity supporting the poor and homeless.

6. GALLERIA ALBERTO SORDI

All that’s columned is not ancient, as evidenced by this shopping mall, opened in 1922 and built in a style of Art Nouveau that borrows from multiple phases of Rome’s historic architecture.

rome walking tour self guided

That design continues into the inside, where you can find a stained glass ceiling above stores selling plenty of Rome’s signature high-end fashion.

It’s an easy place to step inside if you need to cool off or to use the restrooms. 

You can also find several places serving the classic cappuccino and cornetto - Italian croissants, which locals eat in the morning, and tourists are allowed any time of day.

The mall got its current name in 2003 after the death of Alberto Sordi, a classic actor of Italian comedy films.

When you’re ready to move on, go back outside the way you came in and cross the street toward the Marcus Aurelius Column.

7. MARCUS AURELIUS COLUMN

The Marcus Aurelius column is much thicker than many similar monuments you’ll see around the city.

That’s because it’s hollow, with a spiral stairway inside that once allowed a climb to the top.

MARCUS AURELIUS COLUMN

The spiral is also on the outside – you can see an unbelievably detailed relief up and down the length of the column. It shows battles led by Marcus Aurelius against the barbarians.

“Barbarian” is a broad term today, and it was broad for the Romans, too. These particular wars were against Germanic and Persian groups.

But the collective term “barbarian” could apply to almost any culture, and the word comes from “barbar,” meaning “blah blah” – so “barbarian” just meant “people who talk languages that don’t make sense.”

And the sculpture does not spare the details of the barbarian experience – towns are burning, women and children are running, and surviving soldiers are bent and horrified at the power of the empire.

MARCUS AURELIUS COLUMN

The column was probably finished after Marcus Aurelius’ death, and at that time, it would have been the least of his honors in this area – near here stood the Temple of Marcus Aurelius.

After their deaths, most Roman emperors were declared gods and worshipped.

Nothing remains of that temple now, but temples to other Roman emperors do still remain.

Like all the ancient structures in the area, this column has been affected by floods and rising sediment, so several meters of it are below ground.

The statue on top is not Marcus Aurelius, but the Christian St. Paul, added when this monument received its own Renaissance restoration.

8. PALAZZO MONTECITORIO AND OBELISK OF MONTECITORIO

This obelisk is genuinely Egyptian, made in the 6 th century BC and brought here five centuries later.

Earlier we mentioned that obelisks represented the divinity of Egyptian pharaohs.

The head of the Egyptian gods was Ra, the god of the sun, and this obelisk was used in Rome as part of an enormous sundial.

PALAZZO MONTECITORIO

Like the others, it fell, was buried, and then was rediscovered, and like the others, it doesn’t stand at its original location

Today, there’s a meridian on the ground, pointing toward the piazza’s largest building, to nod at its former use.

The building that meridian points toward is the Palazzo Montecitorio. This palace is the home of the Chamber of Deputies, one of Italy’s two houses of Parliament.

Rome has been Italy’s capital since 1870, shortly after the Italian unification, when the many small, conflicting states in the region, separate since the fall of the Roman Empire, first joined into a single country.

The building itself, at least the part you can see, is much older – it’s another Renaissance creation.

And it’s originally the work of Gian Lorenzo Bernini, a Baroque architect, and sculptor we’ve mentioned, who also had a hand in the Trevi Fountain.

I also mentioned his father, who was another sculptor and who saw talent in Gian Lorenzo from a young age, giving him the benefit of early study and a long, prolific career.

Bernini’s sculptures are around the world, and his architecture is all over Rome.

He’s responsible for parts of St. Peter’s Basilica, the piazza outside of it, and a fountain in the Piazza Navona, which we’ll see soon, just to name a few.

This building shows the style he cultivated and which many others imitated, but if you got past the front door, everything you’d see is 20 th -century Art Nouveau.

Apart from the façade, the building was completely remade to suit the needs of parliament.

9. PANTHEON

The name “Pantheon” is Greek, not Latin, meaning “for all the gods.”

The source of the name is uncertain – most temples were dedicated just to one god, not all of them together.

And there’s no record of how it was used in the 2 nd century AD when it was finished under Emperor Hadrian.

PANTHEON

And Hadrian was rebuilding an earlier temple, and the inscription above the entrance still dates from that nearly 2,000-year-old version.

You can still read the name of Agrippa, who ordered the original temple built.

You can also tell its age because it sits below the level of most of the ground around it, whereas originally it was elevated.

There are a couple of reasons why it’s lasted so long.

First, in the 7 th century, when many ancient buildings were being abandoned or destroyed, the Pantheon became a Christian church, dedicated to St. Mary and the Martyrs; for a while it even had bell towers on the outside.

Even then, its refitting as a church meant the removal and destruction of many objects its new users considered unholy.

The other factor in its preservation is that the structure itself is built to last.

The dome on top is made of concrete, with thicker layers of heavier materials near the bottom, then gradually thinner and lighter going up.

It’s still the largest unreinforced concrete dome in the world.

PANTHEON

You can’t see it from outside, but at the very top of the dome is an opening, called the oculus or the eye.

Besides lightening the weight of the structure, it also means that from inside, you can see the sky and whatever the sky is doing.

Around noon, a dramatic beam of light becomes the centerpiece, assuming the sky is clear.

If the sky is not clear, then the weather comes in.

Standing inside during rain or snow can be magical ( video ), and also relatively peaceful since many visitors to town won’t want to make the trek to the Pantheon on foot during a storm.

If you go inside, you’ll see the altar, apses, and other markers of an active Catholic church.

Among the statues are markers of burial places, including the artist Raphael and the first two kings of unified Italy: Vittorio Emmanuele II and his son, Umberto I.

You can get lots more detail on the many features of the interior by taking a tour.

Live tours are plentiful, and just inside, you can get access to an official audio tour that’s affordable and detailed. There’s also an excellent free audio tour from Rick Steves .

If you just want to absorb the visuals, you can go in on your own. Regardless, you’re asked to keep silent while you’re inside.

It’s open Monday through Saturday, 8:30 am - 19:30 (7:30 pm), and Sunday 9:00 am - 18:00 (6 pm), and as of July 2020, it’s free to enter.

The Pantheon also hosts mass twice a week, at 17:00 (5 pm) on Saturday and 10:30 am on Sunday.

Outside the Pantheon is another obelisk, this one originally standing at a Temple of Ra in Heliopolis, Egypt, then at a temple to the Egyptian goddess Isis here in Rome, and then, finally, here in the Piazza della Rotonda.

10. CHURCH OF ST. LOUIS OF THE FRENCH

The Church of San Luigi delle Francese is dedicated to several saints, but the name refers to Louis IX, the sainted king of France.

It’s another beneficiary of the Medici family’s donations and one of many cases of European powers creating and having an honorary connection to major buildings in Rome.

CHURCH OF ST. LOUIS OF THE FRENCH

Among the many separate states that used to make up present-day Italy, there were the Papal States.

These were territories ruled by the pope in a non-religious capacity, on top of his role as a religious leader across the whole Catholic world.

Rome was the center of the Papal States, and today, it still contains the church’s political territory, Vatican City.

But when the Holy See was the main power here, churches like these represented a kind of embassy from other Catholic countries.

The church you see today dates from 1589, but it’s on a site used for the same purpose for possibly centuries before.

At ground level on the left, you can see a statue of Charlemagne, King of the Franks and Holy Roman Emperor.

11. PIAZZA NAVONA

As you enter Piazza Navona, there are lots of possible first impressions, but I’ll suggest starting with the big picture.

You’ve seen piazzas in plenty of irregular shapes, but this one has the form of a long, narrow oval.

In the first century AD, this was a racecourse, part of the Stadium of Domitian, Rome’s first permanent stadium for athletic competitions.

If you go a block out of the piazza to the north – to your right – from the smaller Piazza di Tor Sanguigna, looking south, you can see some ruins of the stadium under a modern building. There is also a museum .

Besides those ruins, the oldest thing you can see is the Palazzo Pamphilj, the building on the opposite side from where you arrived on the far left.

This was the family home of 17 th -century Pope Innocent X, and most of what you see in the piazza came from him improving his stomping grounds.

His work benefitted the general public in a way since this piazza was the city’s official public market.

But on the other hand, famines in that era meant that as these buildings were under construction, there wasn’t always food in those markets. Innocent’s home is now the Brazilian Embassy.

rome walking tour self guided

Sant’ Agnese in Agone (center) Palazzo Pamphilj (left)

He’s also responsible for the church to the right of his home, Sant’ Agnese in Agone. The Saint Agnes in the name of the church has a legendary connection with the Stadium of Domitian.

The Stadium contained brothels, and in the early years of Christianity, when the religion was still illegal in the Roman empire.

Agnes is said to have been punished for her religion by being sent there, only to have her hair miraculously grow to cover her body when she was stripped. 

PIAZZA NAVONA

Fontana del Nettuno

The other famous feature of the Piazza Navona is its fountains.

At your right is the Fontana del Nettuno or the Fountain of Neptune, which shows the god of the ocean wrestling a sea monster, along with our old friend the hippocampus, and other water creatures.

The fountain itself is part of that 17 th -century burst of improvements, but the statues are added much later.

On your left is the Fontana del Moro or Fountain of the Moor, added at the same time, again with later statuary.

Fontana del Moro

And in the middle is the Fontana dei Quattro Fiumi or the Fountain of the Four Rivers.  Here we’re in Bernini’s hands again, and we get to see him as both architect and sculptor.

The Four Rivers in the name are the four corners of the monument, each representing a river in what Romans of the 17 th century considered the four parts of the world: the Danube in Europe, the Nile in Africa, the Ganges in Asia, and the Rio de la Plata in South America.

Italian explorers were very much in demand for expeditions to the New World, even if they sailed under other flags.

The details around each statue give a hint of which is which, and you can also see the expressiveness and sense of movement that Bernini’s sculptures are famous for.

All four are in submission, more or less willingly, to the obelisk at the center, which, like others we’ve seen, has a cross on top and so symbolizes the divine authority of the Church in Rome.

If you’d like a view of Piazza Navona from on high, the Brazilian Embassy has a rooftop bar that’s open to the public, and there’s also an optional view from our next stop.

When you’re ready, we’ll leave the piazza from the southern end, by the Fontana del Moro.

Once you have all three fountains behind you, turn right and leave the piazza on the Via di Pasquino, along the edge of the Brazilian Embassy.

When you reach an intersection, look on your left for a damaged statue behind a small chained barricade.

Pasquino

This is Pasquino, the namesake of the street. He’s older than any building you’ve seen, dug up and put on display in the 15 th century.

He’s one of Rome’s “talking statues” – several places where it’s popular to post statements of protest, often in poetic form, and to get attention for your thoughts while remaining anonymous.

12. MUSEO DI ROMA – PALAZZO BRASCHI

The Palazzo Braschi was built as a home for the nephew of Pope Pius IX.

Along with the Piazza Navona, this was an example of popes exercising their political power to the benefit of their own family, and in this case, unlike the piazza, it was a purely private benefit.

PALAZZO BRASCHI

Uses of power like this were part of what drove the wave of revolutions across Europe in the late 18 th century and onward.

And that laid the groundwork for the Italian unification, which took some material power away from the popes. But the chance to abuse power fell into other hands.

In the early 20 th century, this building was the headquarters of Benito Mussolini, the head of Italy’s fascist government.

During that time, the building had a massive image of Mussolini’s face on the side.

When that government fell after World War II, the city of Rome took over this property, and today it’s part of the Museum of Rome.

If you’re thinking about entering the museum, one of the attractions is a view over Piazza Navona from the second and third floors. You can also get a view of the piazza’s past from here.

PALAZZO BRASCHI

The museum’s modest collection includes documentation of many bygone Roman scenes, including what Piazza Navona looked like before Pope Innocent, as well as what many historic sites looked like before a burst of demolitions in the early 20 th century.

If your interest in Rome is at all to do with the layers of its history and how a modern city lives alongside the relics of its own past, this museum is worth your time, and the interior of the building itself is a beautiful bonus.

Information is available in English as well as Italian. It’s open 10:00 am - 19:00 (7 pm) every day but Monday and costs 11 Euros to enter.

13. LARGO DI TORRE ARGENTINA

Innocuous as it is, this spot is one of the most read-about places in Rome, if not the most visited.

The ruins here include part of the Portico of Pompey, the place where Julius Caesar was stabbed to death in 44 BC.

Pompey, the building’s namesake, who you’ll hear more about soon, was Julius Caesar’s rival in a civil war, and after Caesar’s victory, Caesar was declared dictator.

LARGO DI TORRE ARGENTINA

Just a few years later, he was murdered, leading to a period of war that ended Rome’s time as a republic.

If you’re familiar with the story, you may remember that Julius Caesar was stabbed on the steps of the Senate.

At the time, the senate was temporarily meeting here, since the usual senate building was under a renovation that Caesar had ordered.

The spot was lost until 1929 when a demolition uncovered it. It also contains the remains of four temples, devoted to Roman gods that are less famous today.

But emperors and gods aside, people usually show up for the main attraction – cats!

As soon as the site was unearthed, a horde of homeless cats moved in, and today, it’s a shelter for mostly the injured and abused. Volunteers take care of feeding, healthcare, and spaying and neutering.

There’s a stairway that leads down into a gift shop and adoption area , where you can donate, meet volunteers, or hang out with the cats themselves.

14. THEATER OF POMPEY

You have to use your imagination for this part. Ancient Roman theaters were semicircular, with dozens of tiers of seats looking down toward a central half-circle stage.

An actor walking the lip of the stage could look at all the thousands of people in the theater in just a few steps.

Most theaters were temporary, but the first permanent one was the Theater of Pompey, and you’re walking the edge of its stage. That shape is the only remnant of the theater visible from here.

THEATER OF POMPEY

We mentioned Pompey at our last stop – his name was on the building where Julius Caesar was stabbed.

Pompey was a contemporary of Caesar’s, also a war hero to the Romans. After one of his victories, he announced he would build a theater for the public.

Theaters were popular but regarded as centers of vice, so permanent theater buildings were illegal within the city.

But Pompey built his in the Campus Martius, outside the city, and combined in a single facility a theater, a temple to Venus, a garden, and a sort of museum, with art representing great Roman works of the past and the many places Pompey had helped conquer for Rome.

So the place was also sort of a temple to Pompey himself. You’ll be able to see a tiny vestige from our next stop.

15. CAMPO DE’ FIORI

As you emerge into Campo de’ Fiori, look over your right shoulder at the short side of the piazza.

From the short buildings nearest to you, they get gradually taller to the left, and the walls meet at odd angles.

At one spot, you can see exposed, corroded brick – that’s a fragment of the Temple of Venus that once stood at the top of the Theater of Pompey.

The name Campo de’ Fiori is also ancient – before the theater was built, this area was a campo, meaning a field, of fiori, meaning flowers.

From there, we jump to the 16 th century, which is the era of the shrouded figure you see standing on a pedestal halfway along the piazza.

That’s Giordano Bruno, a Dominican priest who was schooled in Naples, but became a wanderer of Europe after he found out the Inquisition was investigating him.

As a student, he had read forbidden works and argued unpopular positions, and his vagabond life sent him further down that road.

He claimed that the earth revolved around the sun, that the universe was infinite and contained many little systems like ours, and that everything big and small was made of tiny, similar particles arranged in different ways, with an invisible force holding them together – which in his eyes was God.

After years on the road, he returned home, and the Inquisition imprisoned him for seven years, tried him as a heretic, and burned him at the stake where the statue stands now.

The statue dates from soon after the unification and therefore secularization of Italy, and it was arranged by a group of Roman students, who sought out the help of a few famous writers in bringing attention to the cause.

They positioned it facing toward Vatican City. The inscription in Latin reads, “To Bruno, from the era he predicted, here where the fire burned.”

It’s still a rallying point for all kinds of nonconformist groups and causes today.

The beauty of an Italian piazza is that a story like that can be commemorated in the middle and a million other things are going on all around it.

Campo de’ Fiori is an eventful marketplace with cafes, restaurants, and people-watching galore. After all this exploring, maybe it’s time for those things, in which case you have lots of choices within view.

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rome walking tour self guided

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Rome in a Day: Ultimate Self-Guided Walking Tour of Rome

Rome is a city with thousands of years of history, all layered together and visible in its stunning monuments, buildings and neighborhoods. The historic center in particular is full of things to do and see, and luckily they’re all within walking distance of one another. And even if you’ve only got one free day to explore the Italian capital, we’ve got you covered. This self-guided walking tour of Rome will help you hit all the main monuments and areas in just a few hours.

Colosseum in Rome

Of course, we think this city merits at least a few days of exploring. But in case you’re short on time, we’ve rounded up the top spots you simply can’t miss.

On this self-guided walking tour of Rome, we’re taking you from the Colosseum to the Vatican, with many stops in between. But feel free to spend as much time as you’d like at each place, and adapt it to fit with any other tours you might have scheduled.

Follow this route for the ultimate self-guided walking tour of Rome.

8 Essential Stops on a Self-Guided Walking Tour of Rome

Colosseum and roman forum.

Let’s start our day with one of Rome’s oldest monuments, the Colosseum . Even if you don’t have time to go inside, the park around the monument gives you a good look at the exterior. If you walk down the road a bit, you’ll be able to look down into the Roman Forum at the ruins as well. 

Colosseum and Roman Forum in the daytime with trees and plants

Piazza Venezia

Your next stop is the central hub of Rome, Piazza Venezia, where you’ll find the Vittorio Emanuele II monument—or as the Romans affectionately call it, “the wedding cake.” This multi-level, white marble monument was built to commemorate the unification of Italy under the reign of its first king, Vittorio Emanuele II.

Trevi Fountain

Not far from Piazza Venezia is one of the most popular sites in Rome, the Fontana di Trevi . Wandering along a small side street, you’ll hear the fountain before you see it. This stunning masterpiece is a must-see for any first-time visitors to Rome. Due to the popular tradition of throwing coins in the fountain, it earns about €3,000 a day to be given to the charity Caritas .

Woman takes a photo with her phone in front of the Trevi Fountain in Rome

Insider’s tip: It’s best to visit as early (or late) as possible in the day to avoid the crowds. Think 5 or 6 a.m.!

Spanish Steps

From the Trevi Fountain, you’ll make your way to the Spanish Steps next (detour to Piazza Barberini if you’d like to see another of Bernini’s fountains along the way, the Fontana del Tritone ). Because recent restrictions prohibit any sitting or eating on the steps themselves, hold off until our next stop. In the meantime, you can take photos, grab a drink at the rooftop terrace above the steps, or do some shopping at the designer stores in the square. 

This iconic building is next on your self-guided walking tour of Rome. You may know that the Roman Pantheon is famous for being the largest unreinforced concrete dome in the world. But did you know that the building burned down twice?? Or that painter Raphael’s fiancée is buried here? Before gazing up at that awe-inspiring ceiling, make sure to brush up on some little-known facts about the Pantheon !

And of course, we have plenty of recommendations for where to eat near the Pantheon. After you’ve admired the only source of light, a 7.8-meter oculus in the center of the dome, head outside to enjoy a refreshing gelato. 

Pantheon entrance with columns and writing in latin

Insider’s tip: If you visit on a rainy day, you can see the raindrops falling inside the Pantheon.

Piazza Navona

A short walk from the Pantheon will bring you to Piazza Navona . Just like the Circus Maximus, this square was originally used for chariot racing and other events in Ancient Roman times, before being built over in later eras. In the center is yet another of Bernini’s fountains, the Fontana dei Quattro Fiumi , which has inspired people with its beauty for centuries.

Remember, it’s best to skip dining at any restaurants in this area (most of which will be overpriced). But if you do want to sit and enjoy the view, grab a cappuccino or glass of wine at one of the many bars nearby. 

Column with obelisk,  Fontana dei Quattro Fiumi in Piazza Navona

St. Peter’s and the Vatican

Depending on what time of year you’re visiting, the Vatican can easily take up an entire morning or afternoon. Be prepared for long lines (even if you buy a ticket ahead of time). You’ll want to dedicate at least a couple of hours if you do decide to venture into the Vatican Museums or the basilica. From the outside, however, you can see the entire square of St. Peter’s and enjoy the exterior architecture and sculptures.

St Peter's Square at the Vatican City filled with people in the streets

After a long day spent exploring the center of Rome and its historic treasures, heading to the Trastevere neighborhood for dinner, a drink and maybe a gelato is the perfect way to end the evening. Join us on our Trastevere at Sunset: Rome Food & Wine Tour  or continue the DIY spirit of the day and choose from among Trastevere’s best restaurants .

Either way, you’ll end your tour of Rome in one of its most beautiful areas, where you’ll get to see a different side of this vibrant city.

Reddish brown cocktail in a rocks glass beside a narrow dish of olives and a wine glass with ice cubes in the background

Update notice: This article was updated on June 19, 2023.

Ready to explore the path once trodden by emperors, popes, and other fascinating figures? Join us for a guided tour of two of the most majestic attractions in Rome on our Castel Sant’Angelo to Pantheon Tour !

rome walking tour self guided

And, if you offer a coin to the Trevi Fountain, you’ll be more likely to return to Rome. I left in 92, didn’t do the coin thing as I’d hoped to be back in 2 weeks (half my vacation), I never returned. When you’ve spent a few days in Rome, you’ll understand. A word to the wise.

rome walking tour self guided

Very wise words, Mary!

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Rome Walking Tour Map

Rome Walking Tour, 15 Self Guided Tours with Map and Attractions

Use the Rome google map below to visit the attractions in the historic city center. The map is a complete self guided Rome walking tour map and guide to historic Rome attractions, including Towers, Squares, and Cathedrals. Follow the walking route on the interactive map to explore Rome at your own place. Spend a few hours or a full day depending on how long you want to spend at each attraction.

Click on the arrow icon to the left of the title to display the legend. Click on the Rome attractions map pins (green, red, brown, purple or blue pins) or on the legend (left icon on the title bar) or the PDF map that you download for additional information including images of the attractions. Each set of colored map pins can be used as a separate walking self guided route making it flexible to work into your schedule of other planned events or lunch breaks

For accompanying Rome attractions guide click HERE

To download pdf of rome attractions map click here, click on image of map for rome attractions guide.

Rome Self Guided Walking Tour Map

Interactive Rome Walking Tour map for as follows:

Each separate color on the interactive Rome Walking tour represents a different area in historic Rome. You can complete the self guided walking tour in one day or spread it over several days depending on the area of historic Rome you want to explore.

  • Piazza del Popolo can be accessed by taking Metro line A and exiting at Flamino station.  Explore Piazza del Popolo then climb the stairs to the Pincio Hill garden. From here, the Borghese Gardens are a 10 minute walk. Villa Borghese is immense and has nine different entry points (including from the top of the Spanish steps).
  • Rome Walking Tour 2 : In dark grey color on the interactive attractions map above you will find attractions in the area of the Villa Borghese Gardens . The gardens are 80 hectares of beautifully landscaped park. There are numerous walking trails including options to rent a bike. Stop by at one of the cafes for lunch or have a picnic in the designated areas. Attractions include Villa Giulia , Museo Carlo Bilotti , Borghese Gallery and Museum , Shakespeare Globe Theater  , the Water Clock and countless statutes, sculptures, squares, and Bioparco di Roma Zoo
  • Rome Walking Tour 3 : The orange colored attractions map is centered on the Spanish Steps. On the interactive map, attractions are located around the Spanish Steps ( Piazza di Spagna ) . In this are of historic Rome, there several attractions including the famous Spanish Steps leading to the grand palace Palazzo di Montecitorio, the famous S panish Steps , and the popular Barcaccia Fountain . The Piazza Mignanelli is located next to the Piazza di Spagna.
  • Rome Walking Tour 4 : The Lime (light green) attractions map has attractions related to the Emperor Augustus . This includes the Emperor Augustus Mausoleum and the intricately carved Altar
  • From the Monuments of Emperor Augustus, it is a quick walk to Piazza Barberini , your next stop on the Rome attractions map. This is indicated by the color blue on the interactive map. Attractions in this area include the Bernini Fountains
  • Rome Walking Tour 5 : The dark green on the interactive attractions map of Rome is the area in and around the famous Trevi fountain. Attractions include the Palazzo di Montecitorio and the Temple of Hadrian
  • Rome Walking Tour 6 : The next set of attractions in the historic city are shown in dark brown on the interactive walking tour of historic Rome. Here you will find the Piazza Navorone , a public open space and what was the home of the Stadium of Domitan. Attractions such as the fountains, statutes and palaces are located in this square
  • Rome Walking Tour 7 : The light green walking tour on the interactive map is the Piazza Campo de’Fiore . Campo de’ Fiori means “field of flowers” and describes how the landscape looked in the middle ages. The Piazza is just south of Piazza Navarone. In ancient Rome this land was undeveloped and eventually the Santa Brigida Church was built. Just south of the square the Palazzo Farnese was constructed. The palace was an imposing Italian palace when it was built for the prominent Farnese family in the 16th centaury. Eventually the square itself became the commercial center of Rome and the streets were named after the trades such as Via dei Baullari  (coffer-makers), Via dei Balestrari  ( crossbow -makers),  Via dei Giubbonari  (tailors), Via dei Cappellari  (hat-makers), and Via dei Chiavari  (key-makers).
  • From Campo de’Fiore” head over to Largo di Torre Argentin . Largo di Torre Argentin is a square that includes a Square with Porticos. Colonnades, Curia, Roman Temples, the remains of Pompey’s theater and the place where Julius Caesar was murdered. He was assassinated in the Curia of Pompey. Excavation of this area began in 1929
  • Rome Walking Tour 8 : The next stop on the Rome Walking tour is the attractions around the historic center of the ancient City of Rome. Attractions include Trajan’s Column, Trajan’s Market and Trajan’s Form . In the area is Palazzo Napoleon’s including the apartment he occupied while in Rome

Additional Rome Walking Tours:

  • Self guided tour 9 will take you to the Roman Colosseum. Click on the Roman Colosseum attractions map HERE and accompanying Colosseum attractions guide HERE
  • Rome attractions map and self guided tour 10 includes the Vatican City attractions map HERE and the Vatican attractions guide HERE
  • Self Guided Walking tour 11 , explore the neighborhood of Trastevere with map of attractions HERE and guide of attractions HERE
  • The 12th walking tour is of St Peters Basilica . Explore all the attractions in St Peter’s Basilica with the attractions guide HERE
  • One of my favorite trips is that of the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill . The map of attractions is HERE and the self guided walking tour is HERE
  • Visit Pompeii with a complete self guided tour map HERE and the attractions guide to the 49 points of interest HERE
  • Spend the day in Florence , this was by far one of my best day trips. The self guided walking tour map is HERE and the attractions guide is HERE

Instructions to download the interactive map to a smart phone:

Take the map with you when you travel:.

Instructions on:

  • Using it offline
  • Using it online – We bring one of our older smart phones when we travel and buy a local SIM card. You can purchase a local tourist SIM card from one of the main local providers, they are usually pretty inexpensive. You may need your passport to purchase as its a tourist SIM if you are an international tourist. You should have them put it in your old smartphone and check that it works before leaving the store. Use it to follow the map online, its the best way to explore

Sign into google using your Gmail account on your smart phone and be connected to the internet. If you do not sign in, this process will not work . You will be downloading this map to save it. You will be saving it in google maps in two places:

  • Save in “Your Places” for online use and
  • Save in “Offline map” for offline use
  • Youtube instructions on link as follows: https://youtu.be/_6j9koieMsU

Instructions to save above map:

  • Click on the rectangle on the top right hand side of the above map [ ] – if you move your mouse to it, it will say “view larger map”
  • It will take you into google maps on your smartphone and it will automatically save this map. You must be already be signed into google maps with your Gmail account, if you are not signed into google maps then the map will not be saved
  • In google maps, click on the menu which is the three horizontal lines on the top left of the google map (it is to the left of the search box)
  • From the menu, click on “Your Places”. This will take you to another screen with a menu at the top. From the top menu bar select “maps”. A list of your maps will be displayed including the map that was just saved. Select the map you just saved
  • Make sure the map is still onscreen; do not close out of it as you will be downloading this map and it has to be onscreen to download. While the map is onscreen, click on menu again (three horizontal lines top left hand corner)
  • Select “Offline maps” then select “custom map”
  • Once you select “custom map”, the onscreen map will be displayed; select the area you want downloaded (zoom in or out to get all the data points into the blue square outline; pinch fingers for zooming)
  • Click on “download” – this will save the map in an offline area that you can use when you are not connected to the internet

The map is now saved in two places. To see this, click on the menu (three horizontal line on top right hand corner) in google maps:

  • Click on “Your Places” from the menu, then select “Custom Map”. The map will be listed and you can use the map while connected to the internet
  • Click on “Offline Maps” from the menu. The map will be listed to use the map offline ie: not connected to the internet (make sure location services is turned on and your will see the blue dot indicating your location as you navigate with the offline map)
  • After you download a map, use the Google Maps app just like you normally would. If your Internet connection is slow or absent, or if you are in “airplane mode” Google Maps will automatically use your offline maps to give you directions

This Way To Italy

Best Self-guided Walks in Rome, Italy: 9 Suggested Routes + Tips

If you’re searching for the best self-guided walks in Rome, Italy , search no more! You are already in the right place.

The Eternal City of Rome is a veritable treasure trove of everythint good – from fashion and food to art, history, and culture!

With a history that spans over 2.5 millennia, the city is a must-visit for those who want to delve into the past and discover ancient ruins, museums , art galleries, and other cultural treasures.

Rome boasts many opportunities self-guided walking tours, but here we have nine of the best self-guided walks in Rome, which are also ideal for first-time visitors.

Table of Contents

What To Know About Self-guided Walks in Rome

Best Self-guided Walks in Rome, Italy: 9 Suggested Routes + Tips

The freedom from a tour guide or group limits makes self-guided walks in Rome an excellent way to get to know the city.

The following are some things to take note of when going on walking tours around Rome on your own.

• Benefits of Self-guided Walks

Self-guided strolls present an excellent chance to discover Rome on your own terms, liberated from the constraints of a rigid itinerary or predetermined route, which can sometimes be a bummer.

With self-guided walks, you have the freedom to tailor your travel plans to your liking. Take all the time you need at each stop, and feel free to take a break whenever you feel like it!

• Popular Routes

The Eternal City boasts an abundance of well-trodden self-guided walking paths that traverse its iconic landmarks and lesser-known treasures. The crème de la crème of routes comprises the iconic historic center, the charming Trastevere, the legendary Appian Way, and the holy Vatican.

• Maps and Guides

For a successful solo stroll, it’s imperative to equip yourself with a map or guide to deftly navigate the urban landscape. A plethora of free map resources is at your disposal, ranging from urban cartography to mobile applications and digital manuals.

You can get free maps from the following:

• Rome Toolkit • Rome Walking Maps

… or download these apps:

• Rome Offline Map • Footpath Route Planner

• Planning Your Route

You must plan your route and research the sights you wish to see before beginning your self-guided tour.

When planning your trip, make sure to take into account the various attractions’ opening hours, as well as their distance and topography.

• Walking Essentials

Since walking around Rome can be exhausting, it is important to wear comfortable shoes, dress appropriately for the weather, and carry a water bottle and sunscreen with you at all times.

You may want to take pictures of the breathtaking scenery, so remember to bring a camera or your phone!

• Time Management

Rome is such a busy city, so its most famous landmarks frequently experience high visitor volumes, particularly during the city’s busiest times of the year. Your self-guided walk should be planned, and you should give yourself plenty of time to view each attraction.

When planning your walk, be sure to take into consideration opening times and wait periods.

• Neighborhoods To Explore

The Eternal City has many enchanting districts that are simply begging to be discovered, including the likes of Trastevere, Monti, and Testaccio. Do not hesitate to wander away from the conventional route and discover the hidden lanes and byways!

• Safety and Etiquette

As with any urban center, Rome has its own set of safety considerations.

Exercise prudence by ensuring that your prized possessions are within reach, steering clear of dimly lit spots, and maintaining vigilance of your environment.

It is imperative to honor the city’s rich traditions and customs, including adhering to dress codes while exploring religious landmarks and refraining from creating any unnecessary commotion in residential neighborhoods.

• Enjoy the Experience

Going on a self-guided stroll in Rome presents an exceptional chance to immerse oneself in the city’s rich history, captivating culture, and breathtaking aesthetics.

Allow yourself ample time to relish the breathtaking views and indulge in the pleasure of discovering the wonders of one of the most legendary metropolises on the planet.

Best Self-Guided Walks in Rome, Italy

Now without further ado, let’s jump into the best self-guided walks in Rome. Are you ready?

1. The Colosseum and the Roman Forum

Best Self-guided Walks in Rome, Italy: 9 Suggested Routes + Tips

A self-guided tour of the Colosseum and Roman Forum is an excellent opportunity to learn about Rome’s ancient history. But before that, learn some fun facts about the Colosseum before you go!

Here’s a route suggestion:

• Begin at the Colosseum

Right. The magnificent amphitheater where gladiator combat and other performances were formerly held.

To prevent long lineups, buy your tickets in advance.

• Explore its levels

Explore the numerous levels of the Colosseum, including the underground chamber where gladiators and animals were held before the festivities.

• Exit the Colosseum

…. and then proceed to the Arch of Constantine. It’s a triumphal arch built to commemorate the emperor’s victory in the Battle of Milvian Bridge.

• Walk toward the Roman Forum

From the Arch of Constantine, walk toward the Roman Forum – a large collection of ruins that was once the center of political and social activity in ancient Rome.

• Explore the Forum

The Roman Forum features the Temple of Julius Caesar, the Basilica of Maxentius and Constantine, and the Temple of Saturn. It will be a fun exploration!

• Walk up Palatine Hill

Palatine Hill is one of Rome’s seven hills. Walk up there from the Forum and see the ruins of the imperial palace and other historic structures.

• Take in the views

Enjoy stunning views of Rome from Palatine Hill before returning to the Forum.

• Visit the Capitoline Museums

Finish your self-guided tour by visiting the Capitoline Museums, which house an extensive collection of ancient Rome art and artifacts.

2. The Spanish Steps, the Trevi Fountain, and The Pantheon

Best Self-guided Walks in Rome, Italy: 9 Suggested Routes + Tips

The Spanish Steps and the Trevi Fountain are two of Rome’s most famous attractions, and a self-guided tour of them is an excellent way to see them.

Depending on how long you linger at each location, this self-guided stroll could take anywhere from three to four hours.

Here’s a possible tour plan:

• Climb the Spanish Steps

The famous Spanish Steps may be found in Piazza di Spagna, your first stop in Rome. The views of Rome from the top of the hill are well worth the 135 steps it takes to get there.

• Check out the Trinita dei Monti

The Trinita dei Monti is a gorgeous Renaissance church located at the top of the Spanish Steps.

• Visit the Trevi Fountain

Trevi Fountain is one of the most well-known fountains in the world. You can visit it by descending the Spanish Steps. There’s a myth that if you toss a coin into the fountain, you’ll be back to Rome someday.

• Enjoy the beautiful intricacies of the fountain

Admire the details of the Trevi while you toss a coin or two into the water.

• Walk toward the Pantheon

From the Trevi Fountain, resume your walking and reach the Pantheon, which is an old temple turned Christian church.

• See the tombs of famous people

Visit the Pantheon to see the tombs of notable artists and scientists as well as the majestic dome.

• Make your way to Piazza Navona

To see a majestic Baroque church and three beautiful fountains, Piazza Navona is the place to be!

• Eat at a trattoria

Stop by one of Piazza Navona’s many eateries for a break and some authentic Italian fare.

• Take a stroll through the historic district

To round out your independent tour, take in the area’s stunning architecture while you browse the unique stores.

3. The Vatican Museums and St. Peter’s Basilica

Best Self-guided Walks in Rome, Italy: 9 Suggested Routes + Tips

Embark on your journey at the Vatican Museums, where you will discover the ancient abodes of the Popes and the awe-inspiring Sistine Chapel! And then, the following:

• Visit the Borgo Pio

The Borgo Pio is a neighborhood where numerous Popes and notable Romans once owned magnificent abodes.

• Take in the magnificent sight of St. Peter’s Square and St. Peter’s Basilica

St. Peter’s Square is a large plaza that dates back to the 17th century. St. Peter’s Basilica is Vatican City’s most recognizable landmark. Together, they attract millions of tourists annually.

• Check out the papal tombs

The Basilica boasts the resting places of esteemed Popes of yore, while its Square stands out as one of the most bustling in the world, particularly during Mass and noteworthy Catholic occasions.

• Walk on the Passeggiata del Gelsomino

Nestled within Vatican City lies a captivating gem known as the Passeggiata del Gelsomino. This enchanting pathway spans a remarkable 300 meters and is situated atop a former railway network, adding to its allure.

• Stroll down Via Della Conciliazione

You simply must take a stroll down Via Della Conciliazione! It’s a grand boulevard that will lead you straight to the majestic Tiber River.

• Head to the Castel Sant’Angelo

Furthermore, the path will guide you toward Castel Sant’Angelo, a magnificent fortress constructed during the 2nd century under the reign of Emperor Hadrian.

• Stop by the Ponte Sant’Angelo

The stroll culminates at the Ponte Sant’Angelo (St. Angelo Bridge), which is adorned with a stunning array of ten angelic statues gracing each side of the bridge.

• Take pictures of the Santo Spirito district

This marks the end of your stroll and an exceptional location to capture stunning snapshots of the Santo Spirito district, which according to folklore, is believed to be the birthplace of Rome.

4. The Appian Way and the Catacombs

Best Self-guided Walks in Rome, Italy: 9 Suggested Routes + Tips

The historic Appian Way, one of the most significant thoroughfares in ancient Rome, is traversed on this hike; while the catacombs are underground cemeteries from the first century that anyone can visit.

Here’s your walk plan.

• Start at the Porta San Sebastiano

Get going at the historic gate of Porta San Sebastiano in the Aurelian Walls. It’s accessible through Metro Line A’s San Giovanni stop; from there, take Bus 218 to the entrance.

• Walk down the Appian Way

Take a stroll down the pedestrian-only Appian Way to see some ancient tombs, mausoleums, and ruins.

Along the journey, you’ll pass by the Circus Maximus and the Tomb of Cecilia Metella.

• 3 kilometers later, you’ll be at Catacombs of San Callisto

The Catacombs of San Callisto, one of the largest and most significant Christian catacombs in Rome, can be found after around 3 kilometers. The underground tombs, decorated with frescoes and inscriptions, are accessible via guided tour.

• Reach the Catacombs of San Sebastiano

The Catacombs of San Sebastiano can be reached by carrying on down the Appian Way. Although smaller than San Callisto, the Catacombs of San Sebastiano are also worth exploring.

The Basilica of San Sebastiano, a stunning basilica constructed atop the catacombs, is well worth a visit.

• Head back to Porta San Sebastiano

You can go back to Porta San Sebastiano from the Catacombs of San Sebastiano by taking a bus or a taxi, or you can walk there.

5. Trastevere and the Jewish Ghetto

Best Self-guided Walks in Rome, Italy: 9 Suggested Routes + Tips

This stroll takes you through both the hippie enclave of Trastevere and the ancient Jewish quarter of the Ghetto.

• Start your walk at the Piazza Trilussa

The Piazza Trilussa in Trastevere is the place to begin. From downtown, use Tram 8 or Bus H to get there.

• Follow the signs for Piazza Santa Maria

The signs in Trastevere will guide you as you make your way down the Viale di Trastevere. The gorgeous mosaics and beautiful fountain at this ancient cathedral have made it a Roman landmark for centuries.

• Cross the Tiber River

You may access the Ponte Sisto from the Piazza Santa Maria in Trastevere through della Scala. Crossing the Tiber on foot is a breeze thanks to this stunning bridge.

• Cross the Ponte Sisto to reach the Via del Portico d’Ottavia

You may reach the Via del Portico d’Ottavia after crossing the Ponte Sisto. There are several places to eat and shop along this main thoroughfare of the Jewish Ghetto.

• Visit the Jewish Ghetto

This Jewish Ghetto is the site of one of Europe’s earliest Jewish settlements. The largest Italian synagogue, the Synagogue of Rome, is among the many historic sites you’ll visit.

• Walk back to Trastevere

Make your back to Trastevere from the Jewish Ghetto to see the Basilica di Santa Cecilia. Dedicated to the patron saint of musicians, this church features stunning mosaics and frescoes.

• End your tour at the Piazza di Santa Maria

Your tour should conclude at the Piazza di Santa Maria in Trastevere, where you may choose from numerous excellent dining and drinking establishments.

6. The Aventine Hill

Best Self-guided Walks in Rome, Italy: 9 Suggested Routes + Tips

One of Rome’s seven hills, the Aventine is another excellent route for a self-guided walk. The old church of Basilica di Santa Sabina, as well as its lovely gardens and panoramic vistas of Rome, are well worth a visit.

Take a look at the suggested route below.

• Start at Piazza dei Cavalieri di Malta

Get your bearings at the Piazza dei Cavalieri di Malta, the site of the famed keyhole. The closest Metro stop is Circo Massimo on Line B, and from there it’s a 10-minute walk.

Peer through the keyhole and take in the stunning St. Peter’s Basilica dome.

• Walk on the Via di Santa Sabina

Follow the signs for Piazza Pietro d’Illiria down the Via di Santa Sabina. The Peter the Great statue in the middle of the square gives the plaza its name.

• Visit the Basilica of Santa Sabina

One of the oldest churches in Rome, the Basilica of Santa Sabina is worth a visit for its ornate murals and wooden doors.

• Make your way along the Via di Santa Prisca

Follow the signs for Piazza degli Cavalieri di Rodi as you make your way along the Via di Santa Prisca. The Grand Master of the Knights of Malta resides in this square in the Villa del Priorato di Malta.

• Stop by the Giardino degli Aranci

Giardino degli Aranci is a gorgeous garden with breathtaking panoramas of Rome. You may easily reach the Orange Garden, or Parco Savello, on foot. The orange trees and fountains in this park are legendary.

• Conclude your stroll at the Circo Massimo

The old Roman chariot racing stadium Circo Massimo is where you should finish your stroll. Discover the significance of this historical monument by exploring the remains.

7. The Janiculum Hill

Best Self-guided Walks in Rome, Italy: 9 Suggested Routes + Tips

This walk takes you through the Janiculum Hill, also known as the Gianicolo.

You can explore the beautiful gardens, the stunning views of Rome, and the Fontana dell’Acqua Paola, which is a beautiful Baroque fountain.

• Start at the Piazza Garibaldi

Piazza Garibaldi is a square dedicated to the Italian national hero Giuseppe Garibaldi. You can reach it by taking the Tram 8 from the city center.

• Walk up the hill toward the Piazzale Giuseppe Garibaldi

Piazzale Giuseppe Garibaldi is a large terrace that offers stunning views of Rome.

• Walk to the Fontana dell’Acqua Paola

From the Piazzale Giuseppe Garibaldi, walk to the Fontana dell’Acqua Paola. It is a beautiful fountain that was built in the 17th century.

• Walk down the Via di San Pancrazio

Keep walking until you reach the Villa Sciarra, which is a beautiful park that offers stunning views of Rome and is home to a historic villa.

• Walk to the Basilica di San Pietro

From the Villa Sciarra, walk to the Basilica di San Pietro in Montorio, which is a beautiful church that is known for its stunning courtyard and chapel.

• Walk to the Tempietto del Bramante

The Tempietto del Bramante nearby is a small temple that was built in the 16th century and is considered a masterpiece of Renaissance architecture.

• Conclude your walk at the Piazza della Madonna dei Monti

Your stroll ends at the Piazza della Madonna dei Monti, which is a charming square in the Monti neighborhood that is known for its beautiful church and lively atmosphere.

8. The Borghese Gallery and Gardens

Best Self-guided Walks in Rome, Italy: 9 Suggested Routes + Tips

This tour takes you through the Borghese Gallery and Gardens, one of Rome’s most renowned art galleries. You can examine the many artworks, which include Bernini sculptures and Caravaggio paintings.

• Begin at the Piazzale del Museo Borghese

The Piazzale del Museo Borghese serves as the gallery’s entrance. You can get there by taking Metro Line A to Spagna and then walking for around 10 minutes.

The Borghese Gallery houses an extraordinary art collection, including paintings by Caravaggio, Bernini, and Raphael. Tickets must be purchased in advance, as the entrance is limited to a set number of guests per day.

• Proceed to the Giardino del Lago

After touring the gallery, take a stroll to the nearby Giardino del Lago, a lovely lake surrounded by trees and flowers.

• Check out Villa Borghese

Walk to the neighboring Villa Borghese gardens, which are one of Rome’s largest parks. The gardens provide a calm respite from the city’s hustle and bustle.

• Visit the Temple of Aesculapius

This a modest temple on an island in the center of a lake dedicated to the Roman god of medicine.

• Walk to the Pincio Terrace

The Pincio Terrace has beautiful views of Rome and is famous for romantic walks.

• Finish your tour at the Piazza del Popolo

End your walk at one of Rome’s most renowned squares. Piazza del Popolo is home to several significant monuments, including the Egyptian obelisk and the twin churches of Santa Maria dei Miracoli and Santa Maria in Montesanto.

9. The Tiber River

Best Self-guided Walks in Rome, Italy: 9 Suggested Routes + Tips

Tiber River flows right through the center of Rome and is the third longest river in Italy. You can learn a lot about the city’s past and present simply by taking a stroll along the river.

Depending on how long you linger at each location, this self-guided stroll could take anywhere from three to four hours. If you’re going to be wandering around during the warmer months, make sure to pack some water and sunscreen.

To get where you need to go, try the following steps:

• Start at the Ponte Sant’Angelo

Ponte Sant’Angelo is a stunning bridge designed by Bernini and adorned with ten angel statues. Castel Sant’Angelo, a stronghold constructed by Emperor Hadrian, is visible in the distance.

• Take the Sassia route of Lungotevere

This route will take you all the way to the Vatican. You’ll see the famous Ponte Vittorio Emanuele II and the historic Palazzo di Giustizia.

• Head to Piazza del Popolo

To reach Piazza del Popolo, a vast area housing an Egyptian obelisk and two baroque churches, you must first cross the Ponte Principe Amedeo Savoia Aosta bridge.

• Walk along Via del Corso to Piazza Venezia

You may reach Piazza Venezia from Piazza del Popolo by taking a stroll along Via del Corso, which takes you through the stunning Piazza di Spagna and the Trevi Fountain.

When you get to Piazza Venezia, don’t forget to stop and take in the Altare della Patria, a colossal monument honoring Italy’s unification.

• Reach the Ponte Fabricio

If you keep walking down Lungotevere de’ Cenci, you’ll eventually come to Rome’s oldest bridge, Ponte Fabricio. Float over to the little island of Isola Tiberina in the middle of the Tiber.

Take in the sights of the river and the nearby buildings as you stroll around the island.

• Get to Trastevere

Trastevere is a bohemian district with narrow alleyways and charming eateries; to get there, you’ll need to cross the river again at Ponte Sisto and go along Lungotevere dei Tebaldi.

• Eat and rest at a trattoria

After your stroll, stop by one of Trastevere’s many trattorias for a great lunch and a drink of wine.

Tips When Doing Self-Guided Walks in Rome

Best Self-guided Walks in Rome, Italy: 9 Suggested Routes + Tips

Here are some suggestions to help you get the most out of your self-guided walks in Rome:

Do some research on the sights and places you wish to see in Rome before beginning your self-guided tour. Make a list of places you wish to see and map out a path that works for you.

• Download a map or guide

It’s not hard to get disoriented in such a large city as Rome. To assist you in navigating the city, you can either utilize a gadget that is equipped with GPS or download a map or guide of the area.

• Wear comfortable shoes

Since you’ll be walking quite a bit, you should be sure to choose comfy shoes. Bring a hat, some sunscreen, and a water bottle with you, and make sure you are prepared for the weather.

• Plan your route

Create a route using the information you’ve gathered and the map. Think about how much time and how far you’ll have to go between each landmark. Give yourself plenty of time to see everything and take breaks if you need them.

• Stay hydrated

When visiting Rome, especially during the months of summer, it is important to remember to pack enough water with you so that you can keep hydrated while walking around the city.

• Take your time

Since Rome is a city that has a lot to see and discover, it is important to take your time on your self-guided walks. Take your time to explore the city and take in all of its sights and sounds.

• Try the local cuisine

Enjoy some of Rome’s world-famous cuisine on your strolls through the city. Traditional Roman foods such as pasta alla carbonara, cacio e pepe, and suppli should not be missed.

• Explore neighborhoods

Trastevere and Monti are only two of the numerous interesting districts of Rome. Spend some time just wandering about and soaking up the atmosphere.

• Be respectful

The city of Rome is rich in heritage and tradition. Treat locals and buildings with the courtesy they deserve. Visit holy locations while dressed correctly, and don’t make too much noise in residential neighborhoods.

• Stay safe

Even though Rome is generally a secure city, you should always be alert to your surroundings and take measures to safeguard both yourself and your things.

A self-directed stroll through the charming streets of Rome presents a unique chance to discover the city’s hidden gems at your leisure. Savor the moment, relish in the beauty of your surroundings, and fully immerse yourself in this unforgettable experience.

Final Thoughts

Best Self-guided Walks in Rome, Italy: 9 Suggested Routes + Tips

A self-guided walk in Rome is a delightful and fulfilling approach to immerse oneself in the city’s charm. If you have time and are physically fit, you should explore the Eternal City through walking.

By strategizing ahead, donning comfy footwear, and embracing your inner explorer, you can relish the breathtaking vistas and captivating melodies of Rome on your own accord.

If you’re visiting Rome and need a place to stay, check out our list of the best Rome hotels here. The Italian capital has a wide range of dining options, so make sure to check out the best restaurants and gelato shops in the city . Rome also offers a slew of halal and vegan restaurants .

Before leaving the Eternal City, be sure to buy the best Rome souvenirs to bring home with you as keepsakes of your trip!

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  • 🇮🇹 Explore Italy on Foot

Rome on Foot

Best Self-Guided Walking Tour of Rome

The city of Rome, with its ancient history, astounding architecture, and vibrant street life, is truly a treasure trove for explorers. At Rome on Foot, we understand that the best way to fully immerse yourself in the character of this majestic city is by wandering its storied paths at your own pace. That’s where our expertly crafted self-guided walking tours come into play, allowing you to delve into Rome’s enchantments with the freedom that structured tours can’t offer. Want to start your adventurous journey? Check out our carefully formulated walking maps of Rome that will lead you to awe-inspiring discoveries.

A Day to Remember: Rome in One Sweep

For travelers eager to experience the heart of the city but tight on time, Rome on Foot provides a streamlined itinerary that encapsulates the essence of Rome in a single day. Starting from iconic transport hubs like Termini station, this walking tour swoops through the city’s major landmarks. Marvel at the Colosseum, stroll through the Roman Forum, toss a coin in the Trevi Fountain, and feel the spiritual splendor in Vatican City. Each step on this route is carefully planned to ensure that you don’t miss out on anything that this historic city has to offer.

Our interactive maps come equipped with numbered pins that act as your virtual guide through Rome’s cobblestoned alleys and piazzas. Simply click on each red pin as you reach your destinations for a quick pop-up description—no extra guidebook necessary. And if your feet tire, we provide information about public transport options that can whisk you to the next attraction in comfort.

Discovering Historical Icons: The Papal Basilicas and More

The essence of Rome isn’t just in its bustling streets but also in its serene and magnificent houses of worship. Among them stand out the Major Basilicas; with four located in Rome, these architectural marvels are a must-visit. Our walking maps highlight routes to the Archbasilica of St. John Lateran, St. Peter’s Basilica, the Basilica of St. Paul Outside the Walls, and the Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore. Each of these Basilicas has a story to tell, one that’s deeply woven into the fabric of Roman and global history.

The beauty of self-guided tours is that you can spend as little or as much time as you’d like, absorbing the tranquility and artistic heritage of these places without the pressure to keep up with a group. And with Rome on Foot, you’ll have all the practical information at your fingertips, such as opening hours and entrance fees.

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Rome’s Hidden Gems: Quirky Districts and Scenic Views

Venture beyond the well-trodden path and you will find neighborhoods bubbling with character and charm. Let the quaint Quartiere Coppedè enchant you with its whimsical buildings or experience the daytime buzz and nocturnal charm of Trastevere, often heralded as the ‘real’ Rome.

For those in search of breathtaking panoramas, our guides will take you to the city’s vantage points where Rome’s skyline unfolds majestically before your eyes. Be it the lavish terrace at Villa Borghese or the humble Aventine Keyhole, each spot offers a unique perspective on the city.

Armed with our comprehensive walking maps and insights, you’ll have everything you need to capture memories that last a lifetime. Whether your journey brings you amidst the grandeur of the past or the lively hum of the modern city, our self-guided tours are designed to offer you an authentic experience of Rome, at your own rhythm and pace.

Embrace the freedom of discovering Rome on foot, at the turn of every corner and with the sound of your footsteps echoing on ancient stones. Be sure to visit our website, Rome on Foot, where the best self-guided walking tour of Rome awaits, ready to guide you through a labyrinth of culture, history, and beauty. Explore, wander, and let the city’s eternal embrace captivate your wanderlust. With us, you’re not just a visitor, but a storyteller in the making, traversing through chapters of time and magnificence. Welcome to Rome—may your journey be as enchanting as the city itself.

Explore our walking maps of Rome:

Rome in a day.

📌 Allotted Time: 1 day 🐾 Walking time: 3-4 hours

Panoramic Views in Rome

📌 Allotted Time: 1 day 🐾 Walking time: Flexible

Fountains of Rome

📌 Allotted Time: 5 hrs 🐾 Walking time: 4-5 hours

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Travel Blog | Travel Inspiration

Free Rome Self-Guided Walking Tour: Explore The Eternal City On Foot

river with ornate bridge and domed church in the background

Rome is an exciting city, with a wealth of world-famous attractions dating from nearly 3 millennia of history. Use this free self-guided walking tour of Rome to experience the best of the city on foot, including ancient ruins, icons of the Renaissance and charming vine-draped lanes.

One of the great things about exploring Rome using a self-guided walking route is that you don’t have to pay for a guide – it is free! And the other is that you don’t have to stick with a group – you have total freedom to go at your own pace.

Follow this two-day walking tour to explore the best of the Eternal City. There’s a lot in here, so feel free to use the Table of Contents if helpful.

Disclosure: This article contains affiliate links. These are links to products or experiences I recommend and if you were to buy something after clicking on them, I might earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Any earnings go towards the upkeep of this blog, which I appreciate.

Table of Contents

About This Rome Self-Guided Walking Tour

If you follow this walking tour, you can experience the following and more:

  • All the main attractions of Rome, including the Vatican, Castel Sant’Angelo, Trevi Fountain, the Spanish Steps, The Pantheon and Piazza Navona
  • Relics of Ancient Rome, including the Colosseum, The Roman Forum and Palatine Hill
  • Renaissance masterpieces, at St Peter’s Basilica and Palazzo Farnese
  • The charming old streets of Trastevere and Via dei Coronari
  • Stunning viewpoints across the city, including from Pincio Hill, Aventine Hill and Janiculan Hill

two images: one of ancient Roman ruins and the other of a renaissance-style fountain

Rome is not as big a city as London or Paris , but it is big enough with a lot to see and do, so this walking tour is spread out over two days. This is based on a walking tour I did myself – I tried to do it all in one day, but it was too much!  So I have suggested two walking tour routes which cover most of the main attractions in Rome. However, you could do this tour in less time if you cut some stops out at the beginning or end.

The walking distances are as follows:

  • Day 1: 8km (5 miles), which would be 1 hour & 40 minutes of walking, if you did it all at a brisk pace with no stops
  • Day 2: 7km (4.4 miles), which would be 1 hour & 25 minutes of walking, if you did it all at a brisk pace with no stops.

However, of course, there are a lot of things to see and experience along the way, plus you’ll want to stop for coffee etc – which is why you should allow much more time than the walking times suggest.

In this post I have described the main stops in the order I recommend you do them, and I’ve also put an annotated map at the end, so you can follow the route for each day.

Tips For Walking Around Rome

Having walked this entire route myself, here are some tips:

  • Wear comfortable shoes – you’re covering a lot of ground in this walking tour, so wear something cushioned and comfy to prevent blisters
  • Bring a water bottle – but don’t worry if you run out of water. Rome has a system of fresh drinking water fountains called Nasoni . The name relates to the nose-like curved spout on the fountains. The water from these is free and clean – it’s the same drinking water piped into Roman homes.
  • Manage your expectations of the cafes around the main sites – cafes and eateries on the main squares and around landmarks may have the best views. However, they may not be the best quality and might have high prices. I’m not saying you should avoid them – it can be nice to sit in a prime spot overlooking a beautiful landmark, but it’s worth knowing the score. I had a great view of the Pantheon in Piazza della Rotunda, but my cappuccino cost €4.50, service was slow and there were cockroaches in the toilet.
  • Electric scooters & bikes are popular in Rome. You might consider hiring one of these to explore Rome easily. I am not sure exactly how the system works, but it seems like you pick them up wherever you find them and drop them off whenever you run out of money – they seem to be discarded all over the place!  You will see them everywhere, and it’s worth keeping an eye out for them on pedestrian roads – I nearly got hit by a scooter twice!
  • Keep your eyes open – there are lots of world-famous sights in Rome, which this walking route will show you. But if you go slowly and take the time to look around, you’ll find all sorts of delightful corners and alleys that help make Rome a pleasure to walk around.

cream fiat car outside a cream-coloured church with a green door and circular window

Rome Self-Guided Walking Tour – Day One

I suggest you start day 1 really early in the morning to see as much as possible in the morning light and without crowds – start at 7 or 7:30 am if you can.

The Vatican & St. Peter’s Basilica

This self-guided walking tour of Rome actually doesn’t start in Rome. The Vatican is a sovereign nation, a city-state within Italy, meaning it is not technically in Rome – although it is located within Rome.

The Vatican City State is a micro-state, comprised of St Peter’s Basilica, the Papal residence, the Vatican Museum and some other Vatican buildings & gardens. You can’t stay here overnight in a hotel or Airbnb here and I don’t think there are any restaurants (although there are food trucks just outside the boundary of the Vatican).

However, it draws a huge number of visitors because of its religious significance and its wealth of renaissance art and architecture. The main Vatican attractions are:

  • St. Peter’s Basilica the large renaissance-style church of St Peters, where the Pope conducts mass, was completed in 1626. The basilica’s interior is as grand and opulent as the exterior and there are many works of art including Michelangelo’s Pietà. At 136.57m tall, St Peter’s dome is the largest in the world and if you climb up into it, you will be rewarded with stunning views of Rome.
  • The Sistine Chapel , whose walls and ceiling are covered in vivid frescos, most famously the ceiling, painted by Michelangelo.
  • Vatican Museum – this is an extensive museum showcasing a huge collection of classical Roman sculptures and Renaissance art. If you have a ticket for the Vatican Museum , the Sistine Chapel is included (and if you’re only interested in the Sistine Chapel, you will have to buy a ticket and go through the main museum to get there – I was a bit gutted about that when I went!)
  • St. Peter’s Piazza – the circular piazza outside the basilica has an obelisk in the centre, is ringed by columns and porticoes and is overlooked by what looks like dancing statues. I saw Pope John Paul II here on my first visit to Rome – there was some kind of papal audience and he was driven in and out in his Popemobile.

renaissance-style church with pillars and a domed roof

Timing For The Vatican

Now, here’s the thing: if you want to explore all of these things in the Vatican, you will need at least half a day, which will reduce the time you have to explore Rome on this walking tour.

My suggestion is not to do both on the same day. When doing the walking tour, admire the basilica from St Peter’s Piazza and then move on. If you are there really early in the morning, like I suggest, you’ll have the special experience of seeing the place empty or almost empty.

Come back another day for the full Vatican experience – perhaps timing it so that you climb the dome just before sunset to see the city bathed in warm light.

Castel Sant’Angelo & Ponte Sant’Angelo

Ten minutes walk eastwards from St Peter’s is the Mausoleum of Hadrian, also known as Castel Sant’Angelo . It was built in the 2 nd century as a mausoleum for the Roman Emperor Hadrian and was later used by the popes as a fortress and prison. It is now a museum displaying artwork, frescoes and sculptures from Roman history and you can climb to the top to see the sculpture of Archangel Michael and also for views of Rome. Tours here are amongst the most unique tours in Rome .

Ponte Sant’Angelo has 10 angels on either side of the bridge and it crosses the Tiber to link the castle with the city. Again, if you’re here early, you will be able to experience the bridge with no tourists on it.

2 images - one of a circular old castle and the other of a cobbled bridge with statues on either side

Ponte Umberto I

Heading east, the next bridge from Ponte Sant’Angelo is Ponte Umberto I , which is an attractive bridge opposite the Supreme Court of Cassation . However, the main reason for stopping here is that you get a great view of St Peter’s and Ponte Sant’Angelo from here. Looking westwards in the morning, with the sun behind you, the view should be lit beautifully.

domed church and ornate bridge seen across the river tiber in rome

Piazza del Popolo

To get to Piazza del Popolo, follow the river Tiber until you get to Ponte Regina Margherita – you can walk either side of the river. The left/west side is a quiet stretch of the walking route – with no major sites, there are not likely to be many tourists around here. If you walk on the right/east side, you could stop by the Mausoleum of Augustus .

Piazza del Popolo is an oval-shaped square with an Egyptian obelisk in the centre (another obelisk – there are 13 obelisks in Rome !). It was built in the early 1800s and features the twin churches Santa Maria dei Miracoli and Santa Maria in Montesanto . On the opposite side is Porta del Popolo , a gate in the Aurelian Walls of Rome.

square with two domed churches and an obelisk

Piazza del Popolo is also the start of Via del Corso , one of the main streets through the centre of Rome. There are some marble benches around the square if you need a breather by this point in your walking tour of Rome.

Pincio Viewpoint & Terrazza Viale Del Belvedere

Take the steps on the northeast corner of the square (looking back to take a picture if you want), and head up Pincio (Pincian Hill). The path goes up through some trees and you’ll pass a pay toilet if you need one.

At the top, there’s a large terrace with statues and a view over Piazza del Popolo and across the city – it’s a lovely scene. From here, head southeast down Viale del Belvedere, enjoying the leafy walkway and the glimpses of the city through the fruit trees. 

2 images - one looking doen on an oval square with an obelisk and the other a city view with a domed church

There’s another terrace with a view at Terrazza Viale del Belvedere . And a little further still, there’s a café called Caffè Ciampini di Marco Ciampini – you might appreciate a rest stop by this point!

Spanish Steps

A little further along this route and you’ll come to another obelisk outside a renaissance-style church, Trinità dei Monti . You’re now at the top of the Spanish Steps ,

It was built in the 1720s to connect the church to Piazza di Spagna , which has a baroque fountain and is not far from the Spanish Embassy to the Holy See. The grand stairway has 135 steps and there are fines for loitering on or damaging them.

large stairway with a two-towered church and an obelisk at the top

There’s a scene in The Talented Mr Ripley (1999) where two of the main characters meet on a café terrace at the base of the Spanish steps – so I was really disappointed to learn there are none there in real life!

From Piazza di Spagna, you could wander westwards down Via dei Condotti , which is a major shopping street in Rome and where you’ll find high-end brands. However, our walking tour of Rome takes us in a different direction: southwards past the Column of the Immaculate Conception .

Trevi Fountain

The route to the Trevi Fountain goes down some cute cobbled streets – but there are also a lot of tacky souvenirs on sale on some of these streets.

The Trevi Fountain is spectacular: large and elaborate; the graceful baroque design and turquoise pool are gorgeous. It is a world-famous landmark and has featured in many movies, most memorably, La Dolce Vita (1960), in which Anita Ekberg’s character wades into the pool at night.

tall ornate monument with statues of gods and a fountain

It is also, naturally, popular!  There’s no point expecting to have the place to yourself – you will be disappointed. It’s best to expect a crowd, and you might have to wait for a spot on the edge of the pool to be free. It’s also a good idea to keep a careful eye on your belongings here: thieves can take advantage of the opportunities crowds bring. The fountain faces south/south-east so it is well-lit in the mornings.

The fountain was finished in 1762 and features a central statue of Oceanus, an ancient Greek Titan and father of the river gods. There’s a tradition of throwing money into the fountain if you wish to return to the city one day – and I’m told the way to do it is to throw using your right hand over your left shoulder. The money gets collected and used for charity.

The Pantheon

The next stop on this self-guided walking tour of Rome is one of my favourites: The ancient and geometric Pantheon.

To get there, pass by the Marcus Aurelius Column , a column in honour of the Roman emperor Marcus Aurelius from the year 193, featuring a spiral relief telling the story of his victories in war. Just beyond that is Piazza di Monte Citorio , a piazza in front of Palazzo Montecitorio featuring another Egyptian obelisk.

The Pantheon itself sits in a small piazza named for the round shape of the Pantheon: Piazza della Rotunda . Guess what’s in the middle of Piazza della Rotunda fountain? You guessed it: an obelisk! There’s also a Nasoni right by the fountain.

2 images: the dark columns of the front of the pantheon and a detail of the join between the portico and the brick rotunda

The Pantheon is really remarkable – it is huge and ancient.  Originally a Roman Temple commissioned by Marcus Agrippa during the reign of Augustus (27BC-14AD), it was converted to a catholic church in 609AD. The building is cylindrical with a portico of large granite Corinthian columns. I remember the second time I was in Rome, I was wandering around aimlessly, turned a corner and there was the Pantheon in front of me, dark and mysterious!

What’s most impressive to me, though, is the domed ceiling. It is perfectly circular and features a central opening to the sky, surrounded by geometric reliefs. It looks too crisp and perfect to be almost 2,000 years old, but it is – and what’s more, the Pantheon’s dome is still the world’s largest unreinforced concrete dome.  It’s far smaller and less glamourous than St Peters, but if there’s one church interior to see in Rome, personally, I think it’s this one.

2 images: circular patterns in the concrete ceiling of the pantheon and the marble columns of one of the altars

Entry To The Pantheon

Entry to the Pantheon is free Monday to Friday, but it is popular, so there can be a queue around the piazza. However, the queue moves quickly because there is only one space inside that you can explore in a loop. It’s a quick but memorable visit.

If you want to go on a Saturday, Sunday or public holiday, you’ll need to reserve a place on a paid guided tour or buy an audio guide .

By this point, you might want a bite to eat for lunch, and there are two tasty and affordable options near the Pantheon:

  • All’Antico Vinaio is a chain that specialises in sandwiches including mortadella, prosciutto, salami and pancetta. They also have a few options with truffles, which I could smell from outside the shop!  There was also a massive queue here, so I went to the next place instead of waiting.
  • Lost Food Factory is a smaller place that does freshly made panini – I really enjoyed my Magdalena panini, with aubergine, mozzarella, tomato and pesto. My panini was €7

Both of these places are take-way, but there are walls around the Pantheon where many people sat to eat their sandwiches – I saw a lot of All’Antico Vinaio wrappers there!

If you’re not hungry yet, there’s another great place to eat a bit further along the walking tour route:

  • La Salumeria is a small sandwich shop near Ponte Sant’Angelo that has some eat-in space. I had a delicious prosciutto, brie and fig sandwich and drink here for €7.50.

cut sandwich with meat and brie cheese in it

Piazza Navona

Piazza Navona is one of the most prominent squares in Rome. It’s a long oblong shape and if you’re thinking it reminds you of a stadium shape, that’s because it was on built the site of the ancient Roman Stadium of Domitian, which was built in 80AD.

It’s a pleasant space, with three fountains – one at each end and one in the middle, near the church of Sant’Agnese in Agone. This one is the Fontana dei Quattro Fiumi or Fountain of the Four Rivers and you already know what’s at the centre of the fountain (an obelisk, of course).

2 images - a street sign saying Piazza Navona and a close up of one of the white marble statues in the central fountain

There are stone benches around the edges of the piazza and artists offering portraits. The last time I was here, a huge group of people with earphones took over one end and did a silent workout!

There are two hotels that have rooftop restaurants/bars where you can have a drink with a view in the evening, so Piazza Navona could be somewhere to come back to in the evening (though you will need to reserve a spot):

  • “La Grande Bellezza” at the Eitch Borromini
  • Mater Terrae Restaurant in the Bio Hotel Raphaël serves organic vegan food

Via dei Coronari

From Piazza Navona, head past the Bio Hotel Raphaël and through the narrow alleys onto Via dei Coronari . This long, straight Roman road runs through the Ponte district and it’s one of my favourite places in Rome.

Most of the buildings date from the 15th and 16th centuries and the street is narrow and quaint, with a lovely charm.  Take your time here – there are some craft and jewellery shops along here and plenty of pretty doorways and side streets to distract you. There’s also a Nasoni if you need a top-up of water.

2 images - a cobbled street with old buildings and a side alley with a water fountain and plants

Campo de’ Fiori & Palazzo Farnese

At the end of Via dei Coronari, head south until you find Via dei Banchi Vecchi and continue in a southeast direction (follow the map below for specific streets if you want them or just wander in that general direction). The smaller streets in this area are quite charming.

Your next stop is Campo de’ Fiori , a square once used for executions and now known for its market. It’s a busy spot with stalls selling flowers, food and clothes, plus there could be buskers playing. There are also café terraces and a fountain at the northern end. It’s a good spot for some shopping and/or people-watching.

grand building with a false facade as if the building has been ripped into

A short walk down Via dei Baullari is Palazzo Farnese , a 16th-century palace that is considered to be a renaissance masterpiece and is now the French Embassy in Italy. You can have guided tours, but I haven’t done that and can’t speak to it. At the least, I suggest you pop your head into Piazza Farnese to see the dramatic façade.

Largo di Torre Argentina

The final stop on day 1 of this Rome self-guided walking tour is a taste of what is to come tomorrow morning: ancient Roman ruins.

Largo di Torre Argentina is a square containing the ruins of four Roman temples and Pompey’s Theatre. Julius Caesar was assassinated in a meeting space near the theatre. There is access to get into the ruins, where there’s also a cat sanctuary, which is a little random, but kind of cool. Alternatively, you can admire the site from the pavement surrounding it.

columns and other ancient ruins surrounded  y stone pine trees and buildings in the middle of Rome

I have to say, when I did this walking route, by the time I made it here, I was feeling rather weary and I spent some time sitting and recuperating in a small leafy square called Piazza Benedetto Cairoli , before heading back to my hotel for a nap!

Rome Self-Guided Walking Tour – Day Two

I suggest you start early on day 2 also, especially because the route begins in one of the most touristy areas of Rome. If you plan to go inside monuments like the Roman Forum and the Colosseum, it is best to book them in advance.

Victor Emmanuel II Monument (Altar of the Fatherland)

Built on the slopes of Capitoline Hill, one of the Seven Hills of Ancient Rome and rising high above most other buildings, the Victor Emmanuel II Monument is a prominent and recognisable landmark in Rome.

large white stone structure with columns and black statues of chariots on top

It was built to honour Victor Emmanuel II, the first king of unified Italy. Work started in the 1880s and it was fully completed in 1935. I understand that during Mussolini’s fascist regime, it was a favourite place for military parades. The monument is neoclassical in style and contains a number of points of interest, including:

  • A museum of Italian unification
  • The Alter of the Fatherland (a name which some use to refer to the entire monument) celebrates united Italy
  • The Tomb of the Unknown soldier
  • Large portico with Corinthian columns and various fountains and statues throughout – including a statue of Victor Emmanuel II, of course
  • An observation deck with views of Rome

In addition, tucked behind are some other landmarks:

  • Basilica di Santa Maria in Ara coeli , a church from the 13the century
  • Campidoglio , an attractive square designed by Michaelangelo

On my first visit to Rome, I remember hearing the Victor Emmanuel II Monument was nicknamed ‘the typewriter’ or ‘the wedding cake’ – and the latter stuck in my mind because its tall white structure topped with statues does remind me of a wedding cake!  For me, it’s not the most attractive monument in Rome, but it is undoubtedly a spectacle and part of the story of the city.

You can explore the monument itself, or if you simply want to look at it, there’s a good vantage point in the middle of Piazza Venezia .

Roman Forum & Via dei Fori Imperioli

Via dei Fori Imperiali is a straight road lined with iconic stone pine trees, from the Victor Emmanuel II Monument to the Colosseum. The road was built under fascism and named Via dell’Impero by Mussolini, who opened it in 1932.  It was renamed after World war II. It’s an impressive boulevard but quite touristy – expect there to be people selling souvenirs or phone chargers etc.

On either side of the road, you will see a large number of ancient ruins, collectively comprising the Roman Forum . The Roman Forum was the central hub of ancient Rome, millennia ago. Among the ruins are various temples and landmarks.

2 images: stone ruins and a long wide street with trees on either side

If you would like to explore these ruins in more detail, you can buy a ticket, and you can combine entry to the Forum with Palatine Hill and also the Colosseum . If you have only a passing interest, you might be satisfied with seeing the ruins from the road.

decorative art and ancient ruins that look like they were a temple

You’ll see the Colosseum from Via dei Fori Imperiali – it really is an incredible sight. No wonder it is one of the top things to see in Rome and is included as one of the New Seven W o nders Of The World .

The oval amphitheatre is the largest ancient amphitheatre ever built and was built in 80AD and could hold 50-80k spectators. It is perhaps most famous for its gladiatorial contests, but it was used for all sorts of entertainment, including animal hunts, executions, re-enactments of famous battles, mock sea battles and dramas.

oval-shaped stone structure with rows of arched windows

The Colosseum is one of my favourite Rome attractions. I remember the first time I visited Rome, my friends and I decided to have a look around, so we wandered the streets near our hostel, not really with an agenda in mind. We turned a corner and there was the Colosseum, its oval shape and arched windows were unmistakable.  I couldn’t believe there was a road all around it – it seemed too precious to have traffic so near it!

In my opinion, the exterior is more impressive than the interior.  I found it rather crowded on my visit and hard to get a good view due to the number of people at every viewpoint. That said, I did not have a ticket to tour the basement level, so it might be better if you have that included ( these tickets cost extra) . I did enjoy some of the details within the amphitheatre, and also the way the huge windows from the view from it.

2 inages - one the exterior of the tall, round colosseum and the other a view out from it through one of the arched windows

I suggest you do a full circumference around the exterior. If you want a good photo, there’s a good viewpoint on the pavement alongside Via Nicola Salvi on the north side of the Colosseum, where there are some plants including palm trees.

Be sure to check out the Arch of Constantine to the southwest of the Colosseum. It is a triumphal arch dedicated to the emperor Constantine the Great and dates from the 4 th century AD.  

decorated stone archway next to a row of stone pine trees in Rome

Palatine Hill & Circus Maximus

From the Colosseum, head south on Via di San Gregorio , leaving the Colosseum crowds behind. It’s an attractive road : wide and straight; lined with stone pine trees. I love these trees – and if I see them anywhere else in the world, they always evoke memories of Rome.

There’s an entrance to Palatine Hill (or Palatino), another archaeological site with ancient roman remains, and another of the seven hills of Rome.

At the end of Via di San Gregorio, you’ll come to Circus Maximus, or Circo Massimo. This was originally an Ancient Roman chariot-racing stadium that could hold 150,000 spectators. Today looks simply like a grassy bowled depression, but you can make out the shape of what was the stadium. There’s a small museum at the south end and a viewing platform at Belvedere Romolo e Remo , which overlooks the circus and also the remains of the Palatino that lie behind it.

grassy area with sloped sides and the ruins of buildings behind it

Rose Garden

From Belvedere Romolo e Remo, take Via di’Valle Murcia, which takes you up Aventine Hill . This is the southernmost of the Seven Hills of Rome and an elegant, well-to-do area which was once home to the aristocracy during the imperial era of ancient Rome.

It also has some lovely gardens and viewpoints. The first of these is the Municipal Rose Garden (or Roseto Comunale ), a gorgeous rose garden with some shady seats and glimpses of the city between trees. The Roseto is home to around 1,100 species of roses from all over the world. It’s a great place to sit and rest if your legs are tired.

garden with rose bushes and trees, with a glimpse of the city between the trees

However, its opening dates are unclear – I have read it is only open in May-June, and also that it is only open in October (which is when I visited it) and April. Sorry not to have a more definitive answer – but according to the Comune.Roma website, you can also arrange guided tours.

If it is closed when you do this walking tour, don’t worry, because there is another lovely spot coming up next.

Giardino degli Aranci

Giardino degli Aranci (Orange Garden in English) is a park and viewing terrace on top of Aventine Hill. It was built in 1932 and has an attractive symmetrical layout. There’s plenty of shade from the gorgeous trees and also places to sit.

The star attraction though is the viewing terrace, Terrazza Belvedere Aventino , which overlooks Rome, including great views of St Peter’s and the Victor Emmanuel II Monument. It’s one of the loveliest viewpoints in Rome.

2 images - one a shady terrace with tall trees on either side ansd the other a view of rome including the Victor Emmanuel II monument

Keyhole of the Order of Malta

A little further on from Giardino degli Aranci, past two churches ( Basilica di Santa Sabina all’Aventino and Basilica of Saints Bonifatius of Tarsus and Alexis of Rome ), you’ll come to a small square named Piazza of the Knights of Malta .

Here is one of the most unique things to do in Rome: Keyhole of the Order of Malta .

The Order of Malta (or, Sovereign Military Order of Malta in full) is a Catholic lay religious order related to the Knights Hospitaller, a chivalric order that was founded about 1099 during the Crusades in Jerusalem. I’ve read their focus is on humanitarian efforts and they have had permanent observer status at the United Nations General Assembly since 1994.

They have an embassy in Rome which has gardens, including two rows of trees lined up to create a tunnel view of the dome of St Peters. While you can’t visit the gardens, you can peek at through a keyhole (yes, a literal keyhole!) in a locked door – and the keyhole lets you look down that tree tunnel towards St Peters.

view through a tunnel of bushes to a view of the dome of St Peters in Rome

While it’s not as well-known as many of the other attractions in Rome, there’s likely to be a queue here (you can even see one on the satellite view of Rome on GoogleMaps!). I waited approximately 20 minutes for my look through the keyhole – and I would say it was worth it. Even though the experience is very brief, the view is lovely and I’ve certainly never experienced anything quite like it before!

Pyramid of Cestius & Porta San Paolo

Did you know there’s a pyramid in Rome? Well, there is and that’s the next stop on this walking tour of Rome.

For the last stop before lunch, head down the hill into the residential area of Testaccio, which, by the way, is one of the best areas to stay in Rome .

The white marble Pyramid of Cestius was built around 18-12 BC as a tomb for Gaius Cestius Epulo, who was some kind of magistrate. At 36.5 meters tall, it is smaller and also younger than the pyramids of Egypt and looks very well maintained. Its sharply pointed shape is apparently more like the pyramids of Nubia, which was attacked by Rome in 23 BC, suggesting they took inspiration from those pyramids for this tomb. At one time, it was not the only pyramid in Rome: a larger one, the Pyramid of Romulus, once stood between the Vatican and Castel Sant’Angelo but was dismantled in the 16th century and its marble was used for St. Peter’s Basilica.

The pyramid was not open for visitors when I went – I could only look at it from the street. I believe if you want to tour the Pyramid of Cestius, you need to arrange a guided tour.

tall pointy stone pyramid and old fortified gate with turrets

Next to the Pyramid of Cestius is Porta San Paolo, a gate in the 3rd-century Aurelian Walls (the same walls that Porta del Popolo, which is on the Day 1 route, is part of). If they were anywhere else, I think these gates would be revered as a major landmark, but in Rome, they’re just on the side of a busy street, traffic whizzing by all day.

Lunch: Felice a Testaccio

You’re probably hungry by this point, so grab lunch at Felice a Testaccio , which is a very nice restaurant in the grid streets of Testaccio. I read about this place on a list of the best restaurants in Rome. Although I have not been to enough Rome restaurants to confirm this, it is one of the best that I have eaten in in Rome.

It’s quite fancy inside, but there’s a terrace outside that feels more relaxed. I really enjoyed the Ravioli alla Felice, which somehow felt fresh & light but also filling.

plate of ravioli pasta with tomato and ricotta

After lunch, head north through the grid streets, past Piazza Testaccio and Giardino Familglio di Consiglio , then across the River Tiber into Trastevere .

Trastevere means ‘beyond the Tiber’ and is an area of Rome on the west side of the river, south of the Vatican. Historically, it has been home variously to Etruscans, sailors and fishermen, the Jewish community and wealthy aristocrats. Compared to the east side of the Tiber, Trastevere has a small-town charm: with old buildings and narrow cobbled streets, sometimes draped with vines.

There aren’t really major sights to see here. There are a bunch of churches and even more pretty alleyways, so I suggest you just meander around and soak it up.

quaint cobbled street with a fountain and a tree on the side

When I first visited Rome 20 years ago, Trastevere felt kind of sleepy, like you were getting away from the hubbub of Rome. However, its quaint charm has led to it becoming very popular – and in the evenings, the central streets can be heaving with people and there are queues for many restaurants.

Belvedere Niccolò Scatoli and/or Belvedere del Gianicolo

If you still have energy, I suggest you finish day 2 of this self-guided walking tour of Rome with a final viewpoint.

There are two on the Janiculum Hill above Trastevere, looking eastwards. Both are lovely at sunset, when, with the sun behind you on a clear day, the city will be bathed in the warm light of the setting sun:

  • Belvedere Niccolò Scatoli is a relatively short walk and is an attractive terrace with a view across the rooftops. It is next to an ornate fountain, Fontana dell’Acqua Paola.
  • Belvedere del Gianicolo is higher up the hillside overlooking some parkland and the city. It is next to a monument to Giuseppe Garibaldi, an Italian general who contributed to the unification of Italy.

view of city with several domes churches

Map: Rome Self-Guided Walking Tour Route

Here’s a Rome walking tour map showing the attractions and walking routes for this two-part walking tour:

How To Use This Map : Click the tab in the top left-hand corner of the map to view the layers. If you click the icons on the map, you can get more information about each one.  If you click the star next to the map’s title, it will be added to your Google Maps account. To view it on your phone or computer, open Google Maps, click the menu, go to ‘Your Places’ or ‘Saved’, then click Maps and you will see this map in your list.

FAQs: Rome Self-Guided Walking Tour

Why visit rome.

I’m someone who’s interested in cities and I often visit the capital city of countries, but Rome is not just the capital of Italy: it’s a major destination in Europe and the world. It’s travel mecca.

With history spanning millennia, it’s an ancient city, with an artistic soul and a relentless, infectious energy.

And it’s not even just the city: it’s also possible to get to lots of other wonderful places in Italy by taking day trips from Rome by train .

How To Get To Rome?

Rome has two airports: Leonardo da Vinci International Airport at Fiumicino, west of the city, which is the main one; and also Ciampino Airport, to the southeast of the city.

I tend to use Skyscanner to find flight deals.

Italy has a great train network, so if you’re travelling to Rome by train, the main station is Roma Termini, just east of the city centre. It is connected to the Rome metro network and is also served by buses.

How To Get From Rome Airport To City Center?

From Fiumicino , there’s an express train to Roma Termini, called the Leonardo Express . It runs every 30 minutes. There’s also a number of bus se rvices and you can also take taxis, which have a fixed price of €50. Uber operates in Rome.

From Ciampino , taxis have the same fixed price of €50. There’s a train connection called Ciampino Airlink , but you must take a bus from the airport to the train station first. There is also a shutt le bus option directly from the airport.

When Is The Best Time To Visit Rome?

My favourite time to visit Rome (and Italy in general) is in the shoulder seasons: March-May and September–November. The weather is mild enough to be out and about all day – even in November, and the crowds are reduced. It can be unpleasantly hot in the summer months of June – August, so I have avoided the summer for years now.

Where To Stay In Rome?

I really liked my most recent hotel in Rome, the Hotel Bloom . It was a little way from the city centre: a 10-15 minute walk from St Peters, up the hill above Trastevere (but without an easy route to Trastevere).

However, it made up for the distance with a really big, comfortable room and a great view of St Peters.

view of rooftops and the dome of St Peter's in Rome through a window

Can You Walk Around Rome In A Day?

Unless you have amazing stamina and you’re willing to rush from place to place without dwelling on them, I don’t think you can see all the main sights in a day. That’s why I have created this two-day Rome self-guided walking tour.

However, if you only have one day to explore Rome on foot, then you could use a cut-down version of this route. For example, you could start at the Spanish Steps, and follow the route all the way to the Colosseum. This way, you’ll see all the major sights in central Rome in one day. And if you wanted to at least see the Vatican during that day, you could detour from the route after Via dei Coronari and go onto Ponte Sant’Angelo, to have a look at it.

Do I Need To Book Vatican Tour In Advance?

Yes, it can get booked up, so it is wise to book your tickets in advance. In fact, I would advise this for any major Rome attraction that requires a ticket, including the Colosseum and the Pantheon (if you’re going there on a weekend).

Can You Do A Self-Guided Tour Of The Colosseum?

Yes, there are several ticket options that allow you to explore at your own pace, without a guide. At the beginning of the route through the colosseum, there’s an exhibition where you can learn about the construction and use of the structure.

The Final Word

I hope you find this Rome self-guided walking tour helpful!  The only other piece of advice I can give you is don’t hold back from taking detours from the route – I really enjoy a bit of aimless wandering and Rome is a great city in which to do that.  

Finally, do check out my other posts on Italy , including Venice and Bologna .

If you like this article, I'd be delighted if you shared it!

About The Author

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Martha Knight

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4 thoughts on “free rome self-guided walking tour: explore the eternal city on foot”.

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Hi, we recently followed this 2 day tour on a family holiday and it was superb! Thank you for putting it together and for all the helpful information.

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Oh great! Thanks so much for letting me know – I’m really pleased you enjoyed it. Hope your feet weren’t sore by the end of it 🙂

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I was unable to get the table of contents to open. Great article!

Thanks! And sorry about the table of contents – there was a big but its fixed now, I believe 🙂

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Rome self-guided sightseeing walks linking main sights

Some gentle walks linking the major sightseeing icons of rome.

The first thing to point out is that these self-guided walks in Rome are not meant to be serious hikes for the enthusiast, all are really no more than gentle strolls that connect the main sights of Rome.

These pages focus on independent, self-guided walks around Rome. If you are interested in taking a professional tour we also have pages with information and booking details: Professional walking tours in ancient Rome

In Rome there is something of interest almost around every corner. Many churches hardy thought worth mentioning in a guide book for Rome, would be major attractions in most other cities.

In the City of Rome, walking is by far the best way to explore the city. Much of the city is made up of narrow lanes and alleys impenetrable to tourist coaches (or even public buses come to that) so you miss a lot by not walking.

The walks guide you between the major sightseeing icons most first time visitors will have on their “must see” lists. 95% of the time along pedestrian only paths and lanes.

The walks concentrate on the logistics with basic information on what you will see. Most guide books have detailed street maps and hotels will normally distribute street maps adequate for these walks free of charge. There are of course Rome city maps you can purchase at newstands and tourist offices. A good guide book dedicated to Rome will greatly enhance your enjoyment of these walks.

There is little in the way of consistent official signage for the tourist that you can rely on for pedestrians. These walks connect the main sights by direct routes, but still take routes where there is something of interest around every corner.

We would encourage you not to use these routes as a straitjacket that cannot be detoured from - part of the experience is to make your own personal discoveries.

At the height of the summer it can get very hot in Rome, this is the only time that the weather in the form of heat is a factor on these walks so do take care to take on lots of fluids at this time of year.

Sightseeing Walking Map Of Rome

Walk 1 - A circuit of Villa Borghese

Walk 2 - Spanish Steps to Trevi Fountain

Walk 3 - Trevi Fountain to the Pantheon

Walk 4 - The Pantheon to Trastevere via Piazza Navona

Walk 5 - the pantheon to vatican city via piazza navona, walk 6 - a walk above and around trastevere, walk 7 - trastevere to capitoline hill & museum, walk 8 - the pantheon to colosseum via roman forum & capitoline hill.

Walk 9 - The Appian Way (outside Rome City Centre)

Walk 1 : Villa Borghese (Visiting the Spanish Steps & Borghese Gallery

Villa Borghese is the largest public park in Rome and a great safety valve to escape the noise and bustle of the city of Rome, just minutes from some major attractions in the centre of Rome.

The walk takes you on a comprehensive circuit of the best that Villa Borghese can offer. The walk is primarily for chilling out, but the Borghese Gallery is part of the walk and the park map lists 90 places worth noting, which means there is something to divert your interest all the way, including a full size replica of Shakespeare's Globe Theatre in the middle of Rome used for staging the bards plays!

Walk 1 - Villa Borghese - full details

A short efficient way of walking between the two main tourist hotspots in the eastern part of the ancient city centre, avoiding traffic.

Walk 2 - Spanish Steps to Trivia Fountain - full details

Walk 3 - Trevi Fountain to The Pantheon

Again a direct short walk avoiding traffic between the Trevi Fountain and the Pantheon in the heart of the ancient city centre. The Pantheon is a major hub of our sightseeing walks with four walks radiating out from it in all directions.

Walk 3 - Trevi Fountain to The Pantheon - full details

A great walk through ancient alleys and narrow lanes through a part of Rome much favoured in the evening for somewhere to eat. The walks pass through Piazza Navona and Campo de' Fiori market and no doubt you will make your own discoveries too.

Walk 4 - The Pantheon to Trastevere via Piazza Navona - full details

A quick efficient walking route avoiding traffic connecting Vatican City with the ancient city centre of Rome.

Walk 5 - The Pantheon to Vatican City via Piazza Navona - full details

Trastevere is renowned as a restaurant district to head for in Rome and this walk is a great walk in the evening from the skyline above Trastevere with views all over Rome down to your restaurant table below.

Walk 6 - A walk above and around Trastevere - full details

A short but sweet connector walk connecting Trastevere to the Roman ruins of the Roman Forum and Capitoline Hill.

Walk 7 - Trastevere to Capitoline Hill & Museum - full details

A short connector walk linking the ancient city centre of the Pantheon, Trevi Fountain and Piazza Navona with Capitoline Hill, Roman Forum and Colosseum..

Walk 8 - The Pantheon to Colosseum via Roman Forum & Capitoline Hill - full details

Walk 9 : The Appian Way

The Via Appia Antica is the old Roman Appian Way, which ran from Rome down to Brindisi. The stretch close to Rome, the Via Appia Antica, is now part of a nature and archaeological park, the Parco Regionale dell'Appia Antica, and makes a lovely half day out, particularly on Sundays when the area is closed to traffic. You too can walk along the Appian way, just like Romans did 2,000 years ago.

Walk 9 - The Appian way - full details

Tours From Rome

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Le Long Weekend

One Day in Rome – Free Self-Guided Rome Walking Tour

If you only have one day in Rome, chances are you’re overwhelmed by the incredible options of what to see and do. The good news is, with this free walking tour of Rome you’ll see the top sights, with time to stop for a delicious gelato along the way.

First up though, have you considered which Rome attractions are on your bucket list?

If they include the Colosseum, the Roman Forum, the Trevi Fountain and Vatican City, you’ll see them and many more on this tour, with my recommendations for the easiest way to get around them all in a day.

So, all that’s left to do is pack your comfy walking shoes and get ready to explore the Eternal City in one magical day.

Table of Contents

Walking Map of Rome

The following Rome sightseeing map will lead you on an adventure across 1 day in Rome. It covers about 12 kilometres in total and winds through the city’s historic streets, via all those iconic attractions you don’t want to miss.

To make the most of the free Rome walking tour, it’s designed to allow enough time to properly discover each attraction but to keep moving towards the next in order to fit them in. However, if you can’t resist lingering over pizza, all you need to do is step up the pace.

How to Spend One day in Rome

Your self-guided walking tour of Rome starts and ends at Termini Train Station. It follows an exciting path to the Colosseum first and moves on to cover all the top things to see in Rome, before taking you back around to the Trevi Fountain and the station.

However, if the Vatican Museums are at the top of your must-see list, it’s best to start the day there and buy early access tickets to avoid the long queues. You can still fit other attractions in and you’ll find my recommendations for an alternative route towards the end of this article. 

=> Starting Point – Termini Train Station

Termini train station in Rome, Italy

Most short stopovers in Rome begin and end at Fiumicino Airport. With direct trains available from the airport to the city, I’ve chosen Termini Train Station as the easiest starting point. It’s also the main hub for trains from other destinations in Italy and Europe.

Don’t worry about dragging heavy bags around either, as you’ll find Termini luggage storage facilities to safely stash your things for the day.

Stop #1 – The Colosseum

Colosseum in Rome, Italy

After stretching your legs on the easy walk from the station, you’ll start the tour off with a bang at one of the top places to visit in Rome. At first sight, a visit to the Colosseum offers one of those gasp-worthy moments, right before you frantically reach for your camera.

Built in AD 80, it could host more than 60,000 people all vying for the grisly privilege of watching gladiator battles, wild animal fights and public executions.

It’s enough to simply gaze in awe at the exterior of the ancient site, however, if you want to go inside it’s best to buy entry tickets online first. Then, you’ll see evidence of the intricate underground passageways and trap doors used for the brutal shows, along with the enormity of the famous landmark.

Stop #2 – The Roman Forum

Visit the Roman Forum on a walking tour of Rome

No ancient Rome tour is complete without discovering the Roman Forum, which is just a stroll from the Colosseum. Though its majestic temples and imposing buildings now lie in ruins, you can certainly see, and feel, the sheer grandeur of the Roman Empire’s political, commercial and social heart.

This was the home of the Vestal Virgins who kept the sacred fire in the Temple of Vesta alight, and the site where Julius Caesar was cremated at his namesake temple.

The Egyptian granite columns of the Temple of Saturn hide secrets of the state treasury and was repeatedly destroyed by fire across the years. It’s definitely worth it to download an audio guide to learn about the site’s incredible history, while you’re exploring.

Stop #3 – Piazza Venezia

Piazza Venezia in Rome

After popping back out from an ancient history trance, your walking tour continues onto the Piazza Venezia, which is literally located in the heart of Rome. It’s a breathtaking spot, with the white marble of the Vittorio Emanuele II Monument taking centre stage.

In fact, a whole area of Rome was demolished in order to make way for the structure and it was built to commemorate the unification of Italy.

If you feel like a coffee, there are plenty of cafes to get one here, before delving into the museum at the Palazzo Venezia. A huge collection including paintings, wooden sculptures, silverware, tapestries and weaponry stretches across more than 20 rooms and a garden adorns the centre of the palace. Back outside, don’t miss out on taking a snap of Palazzo Bonaparte, the former home of Napoleon’s mother.

Stop #4 – Largo di Torre Argentina

Largo di Torre Argentina

It’s said that Julius Caesar was murdered in the ruins surrounding the Largo di Torre Argentina. Fast forward to the future and it’s long been the home of a volunteer-run cat sanctuary. This is the next stop on your tour of Rome, to see the ruins of four Republican-era temples that are thought to have been constructed between the 2nd and 4th centuries BC.

You might be wondering what all this has to do with Argentina…

Nothing, as it happens. The name is taken from Argentoratum, which was the Latin name for the city of Strasbourg, the hometown of the Papal Master of Ceremonies.

Only cats are allowed inside the complex, though rumoured plans are constantly in motion to renovate the area and open it to the public. However, you can view the ruins from surrounding walkways.

Side trip – Campo de’ Fiori

Campo de' Fiori is a must do in one day in Rome.

At this point in your Rome sightseeing tour, it’s time to check the time. Is it already after 1pm? If it is, skip this side trip and make your way to the Pantheon. Otherwise, get set for the delicious delights of the morning market at Campo de’ Fiori. It’s the city’s most famous market and brims with fruit and vegetable stalls, flower merchants and locally made delicacies.

The vibrant, local action takes place on the site of the ancient Theatre of Pompey and some remnants are seen throughout. However, it’s hard to notice anything but the tasty treats. Refresh with a glass of freshly-squeezed juice, pick up something to snack on and don’t miss out on trying some sun-ripened fruit.

Stop #5 – The Pantheon

The Rome Pantheon is an essential stop on a self-guided walking tour of the city.

All of the best walks in Rome lead to the Pantheon and it pays to prepare yourself for yet another gasp-worthy moment. The 2000-year-old temple is the best preserved of Rome’s ancient structures and features the largest unreinforced concrete dome that was ever built.

Its existence is thanks to Marcus Agrippa, the son-in-law of Emperor Augustus. Dedicated to the planetary gods, early Christian emperors stopped all pagan worship in the temple and today it continues to function as a church.

Michelangelo is said to have stated that the Pantheon was built by angles, not by men, and that’s not so hard to believe.

Stop #6 – Church of St. Louis of the French

The Church of St. Louis of the French in Rome, Italy

As you continue walking through Rome, the next stop is the opulent Church of St. Louis of the French. The Roman Catholic church is dedicated to the Virgin Mary, St. Louis IX and St. Denis the Areopagite and it’s still an active place of worship for Rome’s French community, as it has been since 1589.

Being Rome, the Baroque structure is built on ancient sites, namely the Baths of Nero and the Baths of Agrippa. Wander inside to see the three famous Caravaggio paintings, The Calling of Saint Matthew, the Martyrdom of Saint Matthew and Saint Matthew and the Angel, near the main altar.

Stop #7 – Piazza Navona

Piazza Navona is a must do when spending one day in Rome

Among the spectacular things to see in Rome in one day, the Piazza Navona is one of the most extravagant. Three elaborate fountains take the spotlight and the one in the centre, Fontana Dei Quattro Fiumi, was designed by Bernini in 1651. Surrounding this is an ever-revolving parade of people including artists, magicians, dancers, hawkers and camera-happy tourists trying to take it all in.

Borromini, one of the most important architects of the century, designed the splendid, 17th-century Baroque Sant’Agnese in Agone Church. Speaking of architecture, simply turn around in circles here to treat your eyes to the array of Baroque palaces. The largest is Palazzo Pamphilj, which now houses the Brazilian embassy.

If you’re not running out of time, restaurants and cafes surrounding the square let you sink in for a bit and soak up the atmosphere.

Stop #8 – Vatican City

Vatican City is a must do on your Rome Itinerary

Of all the things to do in Rome , the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Vatican City tops many travel bucket lists. This Roma walking tour doesn’t really allow time to immerse yourself in the Vatican Museums , so choose the alternative tour below, if that’s your main priority. It does, however, give you time to check out one of the most famous squares, and most-visited churches, in the world.

The sheer size of St. Peter’s Square is a sight to behold. With 284 columns topped by sculptures of saints, the design of the square is a symmetrical masterpiece, so move through the crowds to view it from a variety of different angles. Dominating the city’s skyline, along with the square, is one of the largest churches in the world.

The highlight of St. Peter’s Basilica is Michelangelo’s awe-inspiring dome. However, an exploration of the grandiose interior, which houses invaluable works of art, is a mind-blowing experience no matter where your eyes come to rest.

Stop #9 – Castel Sant’Angelo

Castel Sant’Angelo in Rome, Italy

Your day tour in Rome continues onto the banks of the Tiber River and Castel Sant’Angelo. Also known as Hadrian’s Tomb, this is another great spot to stop for a drink at the cafe housed on the top floor, for panoramic views of the city.

The walls of this soaring, cylindrical building also hold fascinating secrets of its history as a fortress, a prison, a hideaway, a mausoleum and place of myth and legend.

Across numerous floors, it’s now a museum with a large collection of paintings, military memorabilia and medieval weapons. The opulent interior features frescoes showcasing Alexander the Great, historic Papal rooms, prison cells and the Hall of the Urns, once used as a resting place for the remains of the imperial family.

Stop #10 – Spanish Steps

Spanish Steps in Rome, Italy

No visit to Rome is complete without a stroll up the picturesque Spanish Steps. Built in the 1720s, the famous staircase joins the Piazza di Spagna with Trinita dei Monti Church.

When you climb the 138 stairs, terraces along the way offer gorgeous views. However, it’s worth it to go all the way to the top to gaze out over the labyrinth of streets and see the butterfly-shaped stairs from a different viewpoint.

If you still have enough time on your Rome self-guided walking tour, there’s plenty to see nearby. Keats-Shelley House rests at the bottom of the steps, with a museum highlighting the English Romantic poets. Surrounding this area you’ll also find many of the world’s luxury high-fashion brands like Fendi and Valentino.

Stop #11 – Trevi Fountain

Trevi Fountain is an essential stop on a walking tour of Rome, Italy

By now, chances are you’ve decided that walking around Rome is one of your favourite things to do. The last stop on this Rome, full-day tour gives you the chance to return, or so legend has it.

The beautiful Trevi Fountain is an icon of the city and tossing a coin into the water is said to ensure you’ll be back – as long as you do so facing away from the fountain, with your right hand, over your left shoulder.

The marble creation is an enchanting mix of seahorses, mermen and the god Oceanus, with cascading water that you can hear long before you see it. If you happen to arrive at the Trevi Fountain at night, lights add a stunning, dramatic element.

On the way back to the nearby Termini, stop by the Quirinal Palace, home to the residences of the president, and Palazzo dell Esposizioni to see revolving art exhibits.

Finish – Back to Termini

Rome's Termini Station.

Time for a breather and to collect your things from the station, after visiting the top sights to see in Rome. If you’re feeling hungry or have some time to kill before your flight or train journey, you’ll find a funky food court with a great array of cuisines to keep you full and busy until it’s time to leave.

ALTERNATE ROME ITINERARY (STARTING FROM THE VATICAN)

If your priority on a Rome city tour is to explore the Vatican Museums, this alternate tour gives you time to do so, while still fitting in some of the best things to see in Rome, in one day. The key to giving yourself as much time as possible is to purchase early access tickets in advance and head to the Vatican Museums first.

Vatican Museums are a must-do in Rome, Italy

Vatican Museums

With one of the world’s most astounding art collections, it’s little wonder that the Vatican Museums are a ‘must-do’ in Rome. Founded in the 16th century by Pope Julius II, it’s certainly a mighty place to explore, with about 7 kilometres of corridors and rooms to discover.

The moment everyone waits for is that first glimpse of the Sistine Chapel, with Michelangelo’s magnificent ceiling frescoes. But, it’s really just the tip of the historic iceberg here, with the Raphael Rooms, the Room of the Segnatura, Borgia Apartment and the Gallery of Maps competing with a seemingly endless array of masterpieces.

Vatican City is a key stop on a self-guided walking tour of Rome, Italy

Alternate Tour from Vatican City

Following the Vatican Museums, continue exploring Rome on foot by walking to the Castel Sant’Angelo. From there, visit the Spanish Steps, the Trevi Fountain, Piazza Venezia, the Roman Forum and the Colosseum, in that order, before returning to Termini.

WHERE TO EAT IN ROME

As I’ve mentioned, places to stop for a bite to eat abound on this Rome travel itinerary. However, it pays to be wary of tourist traps, which include many restaurants immediately in the vicinity of attractions. Although sometimes it’s worth exorbitant prices and substandard food if it means settling in to take in the views.

Otherwise, you’ll find plenty of options just a street or so away from most of the top sights.

Where to eat in Rome, Italy

Around the Colosseum, avoid the restaurants just outside and walk to Li Rioni for some of the best pizzas in town. Centro Storico is a neighbourhood known for fantastic restaurants in the streets surrounding the Pantheon. Just a few steps from Vatican City, Borgo Pio is a relaxing neighbourhood with a range of family-run trattitoris and bars, including the highly-rated Arlu .

TIPS FOR VISITING ROME IN A DAY

So, what do you need to know for your day-long Rome getaway? As with travelling in any big city, it pays to be prepared before you launch into the adventure. Though it’s an easy city to walk around and explore, these steps help you to avoid small, or large, inconveniences, to visit Rome in one day without a hitch.

Clothing/Footwear

Deciding what to wear in Rome all comes down to the season, so make sure you check the weather forecast before flying in. Summer can be sweltering hot and winter is fairly mild, though you’ll still need a warm coat, boots and a scarf.

Speaking of which, carry a scarf or wear something to cover your shoulders and knees when visiting religious sites, including the Vatican Museums (for men and women).

To ensure you enjoy the best walking tour in Rome, comfortable shoes are a must! Though it’s a fashion capital and you might be tempted to wear those heels, cobblestones and uneven surfaces dictate flat footwear for a long day of walking.

While Rome has gorgeous weather, rain is, of course, a possibility. However, don’t worry about packing anything as you’ll find that street vendors magically appear with umbrellas at the hint of grey skies.

Along with your Rome walking tour map, make sure you travel with some cash, just in case something on the street catches your eye or you dine at a smaller venue that doesn’t accept cards. However, credit cards are accepted at nearly all major retailers and businesses.

ATMs are called Bancomat and you’ll find plenty of them near attractions on this walking tour. If you need to exchange your currency for the Euro, head to a bank or Foreign Exchange Bureaus.

When you visit Rome the biggest safety issue you’re likely to encounter is pickpocketing, otherwise, it’s a relatively safe city. Pickpockets operate around the most crowded areas, like the Colosseum and Piazza Venezia. This is very easily avoided though, by not carrying anything in your actual pockets.

Wear a cross-body bag you can keep a close eye on at all times. If you’re taking a backpack, make sure you keep it closed and pop a little lock on the zip, so you don’t have to worry about it.

Never leave belongings where you can’t see them, such as draped over the back of a restaurant chair or anywhere out of easy reach.

=> Read about the safest travel purses for Europe here.

Buy tickets in advance

To make the most of a day or 24 hours in Rome, you’ll save an incredible amount of time booking ‘skip the line’ tickets. You can buy them online and, when you see the queues to buy entry tickets at attractions, you’ll do a little happy dance that you only have to line up to get in the door.

Getting to Rome Termini station from Rome airports

The easiest way to get from Fiumicino Airport to Termini Station is via the Leonardo Express train that runs at least every half-hour from 6:38 am to 11:38 pm and takes about 30-minutes to get there. If you’re flying into Ciampino Airport, the Trenitalia Train service takes approximately 15 minutes and operates from about 5:30 am to midnight. Tickets are available at the airports and the station, however, it’s easiest to book them online before you go.

Now that you know what to do in Rome and how to get to all the top sights on foot, it’s time to get truly excited! The Eternal City is a feast for the senses that captures your heart and won’t let go. So, whatever you do, don’t forget to throw that coin into the Trevi Fountain.

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Wondering how to make the most of one day in Rome, Italy? We've created the ultimate free self-guided walking tour of Rome that takes in all the highlights while still allowing time for gelato stops along the way!

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rome walking tour self guided

Rome Bucket List: A Self-Guided Walking Tour of Rome

rome walking tour self guided

This post may contain affiliate links, which means we may earn a small commission on qualifying purchases, at no cost to you.  

Exploring Rome on foot is the best way to see everything this amazing city has to offer! Between stunning monuments, artistic fountains, iconic landmarks, and of course, beautiful architecture, there is so much to see in the Eternal City. 

Follow our self-guided walking tour of Rome to see all of the popular sights. Whether you pack it all into one day or spread it out over several days, you’ll love this Rome walking route and all of the ancient beauty you’ll get to see along the way.

You May Also Like: 20 Essential Tips for Your First Visit to Rome

See the walking tour path on Google Maps

In This Article: Basilica Papale di Santa Maria Maggiore Colosseum Roman Forum Piazza Venezia + Altare della Patria Trevi Fountain Spanish Steps Piazza del Popolo Castel Sant’Angelo Saint Peter’s Square/Basilica Piazza Navona Pantheon

11 Essential Stops on a Self-Guided Walking Tour of Rome

Rome isn’t massive by any means, and exploring all of it on-foot in one day (or two, if you prefer) is definitely possible! However there are many bus stops along the way if you decide you’d like to take some public transportation in between your walking. Don’t miss these 11 essential stops on your self-guided walking tour of Rome:

1. Basilica Papale di Santa Maria Maggiore

This basilica is a great starting point on your walking journey. From the outside, you’ll see that it looks like many of the other churches you’ll happen upon in the beautiful city of Rome. However, inside is where the real magic is!

Enter the cathedral for free, and explore a stunning blend of baroque and renaissance architecture and colorful mosaics in this large, important church. The Basilica Papale di Santa Maria Maggiore is one of Rome’s seven pilgrim churches and is the largest church in Rome dedicated to the virgin Mary.

2. The Colosseum

As Rome’s most popular tourist destination, the Colosseum is a must for every Rome walking tour! Whether you plan on just admiring this ancient arena from the outside, or you’re going to take a tour of the interior, arena floor or underground, don’t skip out on this iconic landmark!

While there are loads of places to take pictures from all around the Colosseum, we loved taking them from up the hill across from Oppio Caffè. There’s also a garden right next door with beautiful views, called the Giardinetto del Monte Oppio.

3. Roman Forum

While you’re right next to the Colosseum, you should explore the Roman Forum! If you purchased tickets to the Colosseum, you’ll be able to enter the Roman Forum as well. You could spend hours exploring these ancient ruins on your own, or take a guided tour to make sense of everything you’re seeing!

Skip the tickets or just get another vantage point after you’re done touring by heading up the hill to Terrazza sul Foro. This is a great place to take some stunning pictures, or just enjoy the ruins from above. While you’re up that way, walk through Campidoglio, the hilltop square designed by Michelangelo.

4. Piazza Venezia + Altare della Patria

This bustling square serves as a hub of activity, surrounded by impressive structures and historical landmarks. At the heart of Piazza Venezia, is the Altare della Patria, also known as the Monumento Nazionale a Vittorio Emanuele II. This monumental white marble masterpiece pays homage to Italy’s first king and the unknown soldier, with its grandiose staircase and commanding bronze statues.

Climb the steps to the top for panoramic views of Rome and its ruins. Around the back you can even see the Colosseum!

5. Trevi Fountain

A trip to Rome wouldn’t be complete without visiting the Trevi Fountain and tossing in a coin for good luck! As the most famous fountain in the world, a visit to the Trevi Fountain is a memorable experience. The fountain, adorned with mythical sculptures and intricate details, was built in the 1700s on top of an ancient aqueduct that dates back to 19 BC.

It is easily one of Rome’s most iconic structures and looks magnificent day or night – we recommend seeing it both times of the day if you can manage it!

6. Spanish Steps

Constructed in the early 18th century, these famous 135 marble steps create a backdrop that is truly iconic in Roma. Climb the steps to the top to see beautiful views of Rome, or enjoy the Fontana della Barcaccia, a boat-shaped fountain designed by Pietro Bernini, at the base of the steps.

Visiting in the spring? You’ll find the steps covered in vibrant azaleas that make it easy to see why these steps were inspiration to so many artists and creatives across the globe.

The gates, which look more like enormous doors, really made you feel small. I can imagine they did quite the job of keeping people out back in the day!

7. Piazza del Popolo

This large urban square in Rome is named as the “People’s Square,” and lying just inside the northern gate in the Aurelian Walls, this square has been a meeting place of the people and, on a darker note, for centuries was a place for public executions.

Even with it’s gruesome past, this square is so large and magnificent, it’s worth taking a stroll through. Enjoy the view of the twin churches that flank the square, and the imposing design of the northern gate that takes you back in time!

8. Castel Sant’Angelo

Originally commissioned by Emperor Hadrian as a mausoleum for himself and his family, this fortress has transformed into a multifaceted monument, serving as a papal residence, prison, and now a museum, along the banks of the Tiber River.

Explore the interior and dungeons for a step back in time, or admire it from the outside or from the Ponte Sant’Angelo bridge that connects Castel Sant’Angelo to the rest of Rome.

9. Saint Peter’s Square & Basilica

Nestled within the heart of Vatican City, St. Peter’s Basilica stands as a beacon of religious and architectural splendor. This magnificent Renaissance church, designed by Michelangelo, Bramante, and Bernini, is a testament to the grandeur of Vatican City and is a must-see for anyone visiting Rome.

The sheer scale of St. Peter’s Square, framed by a colonnade, large fountains, and cobblestone roads feels so magnificent, you can’t help but be in awe! Once inside, climbing to the top of the dome rewards you with panoramic views of Vatican City and the Eternal City beyond.

Experience all Vatican City has to offer with a guided tour, we love this one !

10. Piazza Navona

This bustling square is one of Rome’s most famous piazzas (and a great one for people watching)! Admire the three beautiful fountains that fill this square: Fontana dei Quattro Fiumi, Fontana del Moro and Fontana di Nettuno. Then grab a drink or meal at one of the local restaurants that line the square.

11. The Pantheon

Our walking tour ends at the incredible Pantheon. With quintessential Roman architecture, chances are this building is one of the few you imagine when you think of Rome. Built between 126 and 128 AD, this ancient building was built on the site of a pagan temple dedicated to all Roman gods.

It later became a Christian church, and while weathered by time is still the oldest building still in use today, in the entire world. The Pantheon’s design has influenced countless buildings throughout history, across Europe and throughout the Americas.

And you’re just a few minutes of walking away from the Trevi Fountain again, so if it’s night time now is a great time to go see the fountain all lit up and it’s evening glory!

You May Also Like: 10 Rome Tourist Mistakes to Avoid At All Costs

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1 Day in Rome Itinerary

The Trevi Fountain in Rome, Italy

A self-guided walking tour of Rome (all sights free!)

One of the best things about Rome is that so many of the magnificent sights in the city are free.

They just live there alongside older things, newer things, rumbling buses, zipping Vespas, Romans, and visitors. You can wander and weave your way across the city, stopping to marvel at ancient, modern, and everything in between.

I am a walking traveler. Unless it’s raining, then I am a complaining and trying to protect my hair traveler.

I decided to write up a walking tour of Rome because I truly think it’s one of the best ways to enjoy the city. I chose the itinerary based on what I think are some sights you definitely shouldn’t miss, especially if it’s your first visit to Rome.

Side note: if it is your first trip to Rome, in addition to the sights covered here, don’t miss the Colosseum and ancient city, and I’d say not to miss the Vatican Museums and St. Peter’s either.

Because this is a Luggage and Life post, I’ve given you some food-related tips along the way in case you need a pick-me-up.

Are you ready? Put on your best walking shoes, grab your camera, and let’s go!

Luggage and Life’s Walking tour of Rome

Click here to access the map of your walking tour of Rome!

1. Campo de’ Fiori

The first stop on our walking tour of Rome is Campo de’ Fiori, which transforms from a bustling market in the morning and early afternoon to a night-time hotspot.  The market sprawls across the center of the square, which is ringed by bars, hence the daily conversion from delicacies to debauchery.

Its name means “field of flowers,” and you can buy your blooms there, along with produce, spices, and a whole host of other items.

Flowers for sale in Campo de' Fiori, Rome, Italy

The area was developed under Pope Callixtus III, starting in about 1456. One of the unique things about Campo de’ Fiori is that there were never any guidelines set in terms of aesthetic for the piazza, so the non-uniformity of the buildings adds to its unique atmosphere.

Above the white tents and umbrellas of the market, you might notice a statue of a hooded figure looming over the crowds of shoppers and tipplers. Erected in 1889, the statue is of Giordano Bruno, who has been described as a mathematician, philosopher, astronomer, and perhaps more interestingly, an occultist and magician. A magician!

Walking tour of Rome, stop 1: Statue of Italian mathematician and astronomer Giordano Bruno in Campo de' Fiori, Rome, Italy

Bruno’s story is a sad one, because he was burned at the stake in Campo de’ Fiori in 1600 for heresy. You can read more about him and  what he was charged with (mostly science-based stuff that went against the church’s teachings). 

I recently learned that Campo de’ Fiori was chosen because it’s the only one of Rome’s monumental piazzas that doesn’t have a church in it! The statue faces defiantly towards the Vatican.

If you face the same way that Giordano Bruno is facing and look at the back left corner of the piazza, you’ll see a door marked “Forno,” which means “oven.”

Doorway of Forno in Campo de' Fiori, Rome, Italy

Feeling snacky? Go in and order some pizza bianca, which is essentially just thick, baked pizza crust with a drizzle of olive oil and a few flakes of salt. You can also get sandwiches and other things there, but the pizza bianca is truly delicious. It’s a mystery as to how something made with so few ingredients can be so good. Maybe Giordano Bruno cast a spell of goodness on Forno as his final act.

Pizza bianca from Forno in Piazza Campo de' Fiori, Rome, Italy

If pizza bianca isn’t your thing, head to Antico Forno Roscioli  for excellent pizza al Taglio. Craving something sweet? Fatamorgana has some of the best gelato in town! Ready for a glass of wine? Try Il Goccetto   or Il Vinaietto .

If you’re planning on having a sit-down meal, there are some great places nearby, but you have to book in advance: Emma Pizzeria , Salumeria Roscioli and Hosteria Grappolo d’Oro  are popular spots just off the square.

2. Piazza Navona

Built on the same site as an ancient stadium, Piazza Navona was designed by Gian Lorenzo Bernini, whose masterpieces dot Rome like black pepper on your cacio e pepe .

If you’ve just crossed over from Campo de’ Fiori, you’ll notice two large buildings on the left. One is the Palazzo Pamphilj, which was once the home of one of Rome’s aristocratic families, and is the current home to the Brazilian embassy. Guided tours are available twice a week at 3:30pm. On Tuesdays the tour is in Italian, and on Thursdays it’s in Portuguese. Booking is mandatory.

Walking tour of Rome, Stop 2: Piazza Navona in Rome, Italy, church of Sant'Agnese in Agone

The other prominent building on the left-hand side of the piazza is the church of Sant’Agnese in Agone, which you can see in the picture above. Designed by Bernini’s rival, Borromini, the church is a classic example of Roman baroque architecture, which was all about curves, swirls, and theatrics.

Speaking of spectacles, your eyes will most likely be drawn to the large central fountain in front of Sant’Agnese. I love this fountain. I could stare at it for ages (and I usually do, given the opportunity).

It was commissioned by Pope Innocent X, who was a member of the Pamphilj family, so he was basically just trying to set up his folks with a pretty sick front yard.

Built in 1651 and designed by our old friend Gian Lorenzo, the fountain depicts the four rivers that were deemed to be the “great” ones by Renaissance geographers. These included the Nile, representing Africa, the Ganges, representing Asia, the Rio de la Plata, representing the Americas, and the Danube, representing Europe.

Gian Lorenzo Bernini's fountain of the four rivers in Rome, Italy

Each river is depicted with flora and fauna associated with its region of the world and other related symbols. The Ganges has an oar, because of the river’s navigability. The Nile’s head is covered with a cloth, because at the time, the source of the river was unknown. The Rio de la Plata is sitting on a pile of coins, which represents the riches of the Americas. The Danube is depicted with the coat of arms of the papal family. It’s also facing towards the Vatican, due to it being the river closest to Rome.

An obelisk rises high from the center of the fountain, and is topped with a dove, the symbol of the Pamphilj family. Many of the Egyptian obelisks in Rome were taken from Egypt, however, this one is a Roman copy.

Obelisk with the Pamphilj dove in Piazza Navona, Rome, Italy

There are some funny legends surrounding the figures in the fountain and the church of Sant’Agnese. Apparently, everyone knew that Borromini and Bernini had a strained relationship, ( which you can read about in more detail in this article from Roma Experience ).

At one point, the Romans decided that Bernini had designed the fountain to express his disdain for his rival’s church. You can see how the legend formed for yourself:

Look at the Nile figure. It’s reeling backwards with its hands raised. Looks like he might not be enjoying the view so much, huh? Or perhaps he’s indicating that he’s protecting himself from the possibility of Sant’Agnese crumbling, due to its shoddy design? Behind him is the Nile, who is covering his head. Is it because his source is unknown, or because he doesn’t want to have to look at what’s behind him?

Figure representing the Nile River on the fountain of the four rivers in Piazza Navona, Rome, Italy

Then look up at the facade of Sant’Agnese. You’ll see a statue of her with her hand on her chest. Is she reassuring the crowds that the church was designed soundly?

While these stories are fun and funny, they’re most likely untrue, because the fountain was finished before the church was. Che peccato .

There are two smaller fountains in the piazza too, which you can read about here in this awesome article from History Hiker.

Try Bar del Fico  (open all day) or Enoteca Cul de Sac (lunch, apertivo and dinner).

3. San Luigi dei Francesi

When I lived in Rome years ago, you could just walk into San Luigi dei Francesi, and there’d be maybe three or four more people in there. It was quiet and pleasant, and you could spend some solo time gazing at the treasures within.

I thought I’d pop in last week when I was there, and was surprised when I stumbled onto 900 sweaty schoolchildren accompanied by their exhausted teachers, and 348 tour groups following their leader’s flag into the church.

I guess it’s become more well known in recent years. Did Dan Brown write about it? Another one of my favorite churches was full this time around too, because of him. Sheesh!

Walking tour of Rome, stop 3: Facade of San Luigi dei Francesi in Rome, Italy

Anyway, if you’re an art-lover, it’s worth wiggling your way through the sweaty kids and listless teachers, the fanny-pack wearing tourists (no shade, I love fanny packs), and the tour guides who are regurgitating the same information and the same jokes for the squillionth time to check out the Contarelli Chapel.

It is here that we meet Caravaggio, our third important personaggio of the day. Caravaggio was an artistic genius. He painted light, darkness, and shadows in a way that had never been done before. This technique, known as chiaroscuro (lightdark) has been utilized in art for centuries, but some regard Caravaggio as its master.

I once attended an exhibition on Caravaggio, in which the curators had calculated the exact trajectories of natural lighting and candles that he would have used to cast the shadows for his paintings. Light streamed across the room in concentrated beams and illuminated wax figures, like a Caravaggio painting come to life. It was fascinating.

Not unlike Giordano Bruno or the Bernini-Borromini rivalry, Caravaggio was quite the character himself. Born in Milan in 1571, he had his artistic talents recognized at a young age. After working in Rome for several years, he killed someone in a fight and was expelled from the city.

He fled to Malta and was also expelled from there after wounding one of the Knights of Malta in yet another fight. He then went to Siracusa, in Sicily, and from there to Naples, where he was disfigured in, yup, you guessed it, a fight!

There’s some mystery surrounding Caravaggio’s death, and even some speculation that he might have been assassinated by the Knights of Malta . His death occurred just before he was to be pardoned and allowed to return to Rome, and just after he had been sent to prison in a case of mistaken identity. Caravaggio, you old rascal! The original dark artist who had no chill and brawled a lot.

Anyway, despite his colorful life and expulsion from Rome, you can still find pieces of him all over the city, and three of his wonderful works are located in the Contarelli Chapel in San Luigi dei Francesi.

The Chapel is located in the back left corner of the church, and it contains a triptych which depicts the life of Saint Matthew. Caravaggio painted these works between 1600 and 1602, and they are great examples of his skill with chiaroscuro.

This is the only time when you’ll have to spend some money on this tour, by dropping a few coins into the box in order to illuminate the paintings. It’s worth it, I promise! (And if you’re really broke, just wait around for a minute until someone else comes along and deposits their own coins.)

The church itself has a beautiful interior, with lots of arches and sparkling gold adornments. It’s the national church of France in Italy, hence the name “Saint Louis of the French.”

Nave of San Luigi dei Francesi in Rome, Italy

4. The Pantheon

Here is our first (and only) ancient stop on the tour. The Pantheon is considered to be the best-preserved ancient building in Rome. There was another Pantheon on the site before the one you can see today, but it was destroyed by a fire in 80AD.

The Roman Emperor Hadrian commissioned the building of a new one around 118, but unlike many other Roman Emperors, he didn’t put his name on things. For this reason, you can see the name of the commissioner of the first Pantheon carved across the frieze: M. Agrippa.

Walking tour of Rome, Stop 4: Hadrian's Pantheon in Rome, Italy

Sources say that there was an intermediate Pantheon between that of Agrippa and that of Hadrian, which was commissioned by Trajan. Trajan’s Pantheon was also destroyed by a fire, before it was even completed.

The exterior of the Pantheon would have been lavishly decorated with bronze sculptures on the pediment and gold plating on the main doors. Today, if I may be real, she could use a good scrubbing, but she’s still a stunner.

The original Pantheon was dedicated to all the Roman gods, but doesn’t follow the typical layout of a temple. For this reason, the worshipping habits are unknown. Hadrian’s Pantheon was said to be more of a temple to Roman emperors (who were believed to be divine as well).

The dome is the star of the show. It is, to this day, the largest unsupported dome in the world. It’s crazy to think that ancient Romans had the technology to design and erect such a building, but they knew what they were doing! The dome decreases in thickness in order to make it lighter. They also varied the building materials in order to decrease the weight further.

The oculus provides a stream of light which illuminates the interior. It looks small from below, but it’s actually nearly 8 meters across, which is over 25 feet! The oculus was meant to connect the earthly with the divine, the people with the gods, the Earth with the heavens.

The oculus in the dome of the Pantheon in Rome, Italy

After you’ve gotten a crick in your neck from staring up at the oculus, check out the tomb of Raffaelo Sanzio, famous Renaissance artist and namesake of my favorite Ninja Turtle.

Want more info on the Pantheon? Check out this post for 10 interesting facts !

NOTE: When I wrote this post, entrance to the Pantheon was free, but just recently, they introduced a ticketing system that comes with a small fee. Adult tickets (defined as anyone over age 25) cost €5. 18-25 year-olds only have to pay €3, and anyone under 18 is free. Entrance is also free if you’re a resident of Rome, and for everyone on the first Sunday of every month.

Buy your ticket ahead of time here (scroll down for English).

Need a Break? Grab a coffee!

If our walking tour of Rome is tiring you out, take a coffee break! Tazza d’Oro is located just steps from the Pantheon, and it serves up delicious coffee and other treats. If you’re visiting Rome in warm weather, don’t miss their granita di caffè,   depicted and described here in a drool-worthy fashion by An American in Rome !

Sant’Eustachio is another one of the city’s best-known coffee shops, and it’s in the area as well.

5. The Trevi Fountain

I heard the Trevi Fountain before I could see it on my first visit to Rome. The sound of the rushing water made my heart pound. I slipped out of a side street and it came into view.

It was more beautiful than I ever thought it could have been. The gleaming white travertine, the massive size, the bright blue sky above, and the sparkling water captivated me.

Walking tour of Rome, stop 5: The Trevi Fountain in Rome, Italy

It was built on the site of a source that had brought water to Rome since ancient times. In 1629, Pope Urban VIII commissioned our old pal Gian Lorenzo Bernini to come up with a redesign of the fountain that was there at the time. The project was started but then abandoned after Pope Urban VIII died. Another pope, Clement XII, revived the renovation years later, this time awarding the commission to a Roman architect named Nicola Salvi. The work incorporated some of Bernini’s design, and was completed in 1762 after Salvi’s death.

Another example of the baroque style, the Trevi Fountain contains depictions of the god of Water, Oceanus. Beside him are Abundance and Salubrity. The papal coat of arms tops the fountain.

Today, the Trevi fountain uses a closed water system, so that the massive amount of water that passes through it is recycled. Visitors from all over the world throw in a coin, which is said to mean that you’ll come back to Rome someday. The coins are collected and donated to charity throughout the year.

I will say this – at peak times in high season, it’s actually not that fun to visit. You have to fight your way through vendors and other tourists. There are guards there who blow whistles at people who are acting like idiots and stepping on the fountain, bathing their arms in it, whatever. It is not relaxing. I’ve included it on my walking tour because you should definitely see it, even if your time is tight. If you’re not on a serious schedule, go super early in the morning, or maybe late in the evening to enjoy it in peace!

Read more about the Trevi fountain here .

I’ve never been, but I’ve heard good things about the pizza at Piccolo Buco .

6. Piazza di Spagna

Piazza di Spagna lies in the middle of Rome’s high-end fashion district, where Via dei Condotti, Via del Babuino, and Via Frattina meet.

The piazza is home to the Spanish Steps, which were built at the beginning of the 18th century, in order to connect the square to Trinità dei Monti, the church that sits above it. The piazza is named for Spain because it’s the seat of the Spanish embassy to the Vatican.

Walking tour of Rome, stop 6: The Spanish Steps in Piazza di Spagna, Rome, Italy

Throughout the year, the steps are decorated in different ways. They’re blanketed with beautiful purple and white azaleas to mark the spring season, and they’re decorated for a major fashion show every July, too.

Azaleas decorating the Spanish Steps in Rome, Italy

At the base of the stairs lies another famous fountain, which was designed by Gian Lorenzo Bernini’s father, Pietro, but finished by his more famous son.  La Fontana della Barcaccia depicts a boat, in reference to a flood that affected the area of Piazza di Spagna in 1598, which meant that the square was only accessible by boat for a time. It is still fed by an aqueduct today!

7. Via Margutta

Via Margutta is a scenic little street that will get you from the Spanish Steps to our next stop, which is Piazza del Popolo. I decided to include it for any of you who might be into photography, because there’s just one cute little corner after another on Via Margutta.

Walking tour of Rome, Stop 7: A purple Vespa parked on Via Margutta in Rome, Italy

It’s also a great spot to see if you’re a cinephile. There’s a mention of Via Margutta in Roman Holiday, with Audrey Hepburn and Gregory Peck, and Federico Fellini lived on Via Margutta too. It has been popular among musicians and artists for ages, and there are still art galleries dotting the street.

Fountain with paint brushes in Via Margutta, Rome, Italy

For more details on Via Margutta, check out this article from Smithsonian.

8. Piazza del Popolo

Piazza del Popolo is located just inside what was Rome’s main city gate during ancient times. It serves as a gathering place for both protests and celebrations, including a New Year’s Eve party every year.

In the center of the square is an Egyptian obelisk which once stood in the Circus Maximus, but was moved to Piazza del Popolo in 1589.

Walking tour of Rome, stop 8: Egyptian obelisk in Piazza del Popolo

The piazza is home to three churches. One of them, Santa Maria del Popolo, contains two more paintings by the scoundrel Caravaggio. The two other churches, Santa Maria dei Miracoli and Santa Maria in Montesanto look very similar from the outside, but are said to be very different inside (I’m ashamed to admit that I’ve never been in).

Egyptian obelisk in Piazza del Popolo, Rome, Italy

9. Passeggiata del Pincio

The last stop on our walking tour of Rome is adjacent to Piazza del Popolo. Unfortunately, it requires climbing a lot of stairs, but the view is worth it. If you’re facing the two churches, take the staircase to your right all the way up to the Piazza del Pincio, and enjoy the view over the square from above. Rest in the shade of a tree, and wander around Villa Borghese if you choose.

Walking tour of Rome, stop 9: View from the top of the passeggiata del Pincio in Rome, italy

That brings us to the end of our walking tour of Rome! Read on if you want some more tips about what to visit in the area, or want to know how to get to your accommodation!

CLICK HERE FOR YOUR ROME WALKING TOUR MAP!

Tips for the area.

Villa Borghese is Rome’s main park in the city center. There, you can visit Galleria Borghese, which is my favorite museum in the city. It’s got some amazing works by Gian Lorenzo Bernini. Booking is required. Do it here .

You can also rent a little boat and take a romantic spin around the Laghetto di Villa Borghese .

Public transportation

Piazza del Popolo has a metro stop (Flaminio), and several buses run through the area if you’re ready to get off your feet for a bit.

More Rome guides

Rome off the beaten path

The best free viewpoints in Rome

Still hungry?

What to eat in Rome

Where to eat in Rome

The ultimate guide to the best pasta in Rome

The ultimate guide to natural wine in Rome

Where to go on a dinner date in Rome

The ultimate guide to rooftop bars and restaurants in Rome

What are your favorite spots in Rome? Share them in the comments!

If you like this post or think it might be useful for other travelers, Pin it!

Check out this free, self-guided walking tour of Rome, Italy! This walking tour of Rome takes you through the city center's best free sights. If you're a fan of budget travel in Italy, this self-guided walking tour of Rome is for you. Free map included!

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The Roman Guy

Italy Travel Experts Tours and Vacations

rome walking tour self guided

How to do a Self-Guided Walking Tour of Rome: 2 hours

Sean Finelli Last Updated: November 18, 2022

If you don’t have tons of time to spend in Rome, you should still knock out the city’s main sites. Here’s how to do a quick DIY walking tour of Rome featuring Il Pincio, Piazza del Popolo, the Spanish Steps, Piazza Navona, Trevi Fountain, and Pantheon. So, enjoy Rome with this walking tour itinerary and maps.

DIY Walking Tour of Rome Itinerary

This itinerary covers the major spots in Rome that you can see without a guided tour. We’ll guide you from location to location, giving you options that will help you have a personalised experience of Rome. Read on to find the routes with bustling streets, great views, or ways to conserve energy.

If you’re planning to see the Vatican and Colosseum, we highly recommend our Rome in a Day Tour that not only includes the sites mentioned below but also gets you skip-the-line access to the Vatican and Colosseum.

Start this walking tour at either Piazza Navona or Il Pincio / Piazza del Popolo. I highly recommend taking a taxi to Il Pincio, which is in Villa Borghese over top of Piazza del Popolo. You can walk there or get pretty close by metro, but we recommend getting a taxi up to the top so you can walk downhill for the rest of this journey. Trust us, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to exercise in Rome, so conserve your energy wherever you can. Here’s your self-guided itinerary:

DIY Walking Tour of Rome

  • Il Pincio and Piazza del Popolo
  • The Spanish Steps,  Piazza di Spagna, and Via Condotti
  • The Trevi Fountain
  • The Pantheon
  • Piazza Navona

Distance:  1.5 miles (2.5km)

Walking Time :  30 minutes

Total Duration:   90 minutes to 2 hours

DIY Walking Tour of Rome

1. Il Pincio and Piazza del Popolo

Rome for the Whole Family - Piazza del Popolo

Terrazza del Pincio is one of those places you see all over social media but can’t actually find when visiting Rome. Good news, we’ve got you covered, and it’s actually very easy to get to. Go to Piazza del Popolo  (Piazza of the People) and look for the big hill. Hidden behind the street leading up the hill is a staircase going up to Il Pincio.

Il Pincio is on the outskirts of Villa Borghese. You can start in Villa Borghese and make your way down to Piazza del Popolo or the opposite. Piazza del Popolo is a 10-minute walk from the Spanish Steps, from there it’s 10 minutes to Trevi Fountain, another 10 minutes to the Pantheon, which is 10 minutes from Piazza Navona, and so on. While you’re in the area, check out the top things to see near Piazza del Popolo .

2. Spanish Steps

rome walking tour self guided

From Pincio to the Spanish Steps, you have two options. The first is to walk down from Il Pincio into Piazza del Popolo. This is the best option if you want to walk through Rome’s bustling streets.

Your second option is to walk down viale della Trinità dei Monti. This road is situated above the neighborhood and slowly slopes downward. You get a great view of the area without the crowds. Take a peek into the terraces of the Roman elite and, best of all, you’ll arrive at the top of the Spanish Steps. 

As you approach the Spanish Steps , you’ll notice that you’re walking into Rome’s posh shopping district lined with high-end designers and brands. You’ll come to a large staircase leading up to the Trinita dei Monti church. 

spanish steps - self-guided walking tour of Rome

So why are they called the Spanish Steps if we’re in Italy? The Spanish Steps aren’t actually Spanish at all. They got their name because the Spanish Embassy to the Holy See is located at the base of the steps.

The official name of the steps is actually Scalinata dei Trinita dei Monti. At the base of the steps, you’ll find another one of Rome’s beautiful fountains, Fontana della Barcaccia, or Fountain of the Longboat.

If you take time to explore the area, you might notice the Keats-Shelley House, located right at the foot of the Steps. This museum commemorates iconic English romantic poets Jonathan Keats and Percy Bysshe Shelley, and houses countless poems, manuscripts, and other works by these authors. Check out the top things to see near the Spanish Steps .

3. Trevi Fountain

Throwing Coins in the Trevi Fountain

Above, you’ll see a map of the route we suggest taking from the Spanish Steps to the Trevi Fountain, which should take about 10 minutes. When you reach Piazza di Trevi, you’ll probably notice a large crowd of people taking the classic coin throw picture in front of the fountain.

Built in 1762 and designed by Nicola Salvi, Trevi Fountain or Fontana di Trevi translates to “Three Street Fountain.” Quite literally, the fountain is located where three roads meet and what used to be the end point of one of Rome’s earliest aqueducts.

The fountain depicts ancient Greek god Oceanus on a chariot being pulled by two horses. One is obedient and one is resistant, symbolizing the changing tides of the ocean.

trevi fountain - self-guided walking tour of Rome

Legend has it that if you throw a coin into the fountain with your right hand over your left shoulder, you will return to Rome again. If you throw two, you’ll soon have a new romance in your life. And if you throw three, you’re guaranteed to get married. Since you’re here, check out the top things to see near Trevi Fountain .

4. Pantheon

You can follow this simple route to reach the Pantheon, which is about a seven-minute walk away.

rome walking tour self guided

The Pantheon is typically considered Rome’s most well-preserved ancient building. This makes sense since the first two structures that stood in the Pantheon’s place were destroyed—one by the Great Fire of Rome and the other by lightning. When Emperor Hadrian built the third, he made sure it was extremely structurally sound.

We definitely recommend going inside the Pantheon to explore its beautiful rotunda. If you look up, you’ll notice an opening in the ceiling allowing sunlight in called the oculus.

The Pantheon is free to enter, and there is plenty to see inside. After exploring its Greco-Roman architecture from the outside, make sure you see Raphael’s tomb when you enter. If you have time, check out the top things to see near the Pantheon .

5. Piazza Navona

piazza navona rome in a day

After exploring the Pantheon, walk four minutes away using this route to explore Piazza Navona.

The Piazza Navona is an incredibly beautiful square in the center of Rome lined by delicious eateries and shops. It sits on top of what used to be the Stadium of Domitian, where gladiatorial games and public executions used to take place in ancient Rome. 

Built around A.D. 80, the Stadium of Domitian even served as a replacement venue for the Colosseum when it was struck by lightning in A.D. 217. The restaurants and storefronts that line the Piazza Navona today still preserve the shape of the ancient running track and all of the buildings surrounding the piazza were built atop the stadium’s seating.

piazza navona - self-guided walking tour of Rome

In the center of the Piazza Navona, you’ll notice a large obelisk with ancient hieroglyphs inscribed on its stone. Although originally located in Circus Maxentius, the obelisk now stands atop the Fountain of Four Rivers and features inscriptions that mention Emperor Domitian. Discover the top things to see near Piazza Navona .

By now, you’ll have worked up quite an appetite.

Finish With A Trastevere Food Tour

trastevere food tour

There’s really no better way to end your DIY walking tour of Rome than with a great meal! While there are plenty of restaurants and bars lining the piazza, we recommend joining our Trastevere Food Tour .

It meets just a few minutes away from Piazza Navona and features fantastic Rome street food and a traditional sit-down dinner, giving you a culinary experience that offers a more local take on the city’s cuisine.

Not ready to book a tour? Check out our guide to all things Rome as you plan your trip.

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This free self-guided walk takes you from the site of Caesar’s death to Rome’s own pyramid, taking in the original Jewish Ghetto and the most beautiful view of the most beautiful city on earth.  

Distance: 2.5 miles (3.75 km) Approximate length: 3 hours

Key to map below

This tour starts at Largo di Torre Argentina. Though not near a metro station, it is just a few steps down Via del Plebiscito from Piazza Venezia with its prominent ‘wedding-cake’ building that can be seen from everywhere in the city. The Largo is surrounded by buildings, trams, a main road, and bus stops, but it is historically very significant. Below the level of the street is an exposed part of the Roman Forum, containing four temples. Of greatest interest though, on the side flanked by the tram terminus, is the location of the Curia of Pompey.

P1070392-001

Pompey (Gnaeus Pompeius Magnus) was a hugely successful general who expanded the Roman territories enormously, with successful campaigns in Sicily, in North Africa, the Iberian peninsula, Crete, Jerusalem, and as far east as the Black Sea. He was the youngest-ever elected Consul of Rome, aged only 35. As part of his second consulship he rewarded the people of Rome by building them a gigantic theater (the first and largest permanent stone theater in the ancient city). The theater is long gone, though a look at a map shows that its semicircular shape is still etched in the streets to the west of the Largo.

Julius Caesar, a former ally of Pompey’s and the father of his beloved wife Julia, fell out with Pompey following Julia’s death, and began to challenge his consulship. This led to Caesar’s armies crossing the Rubicon (that’s where that phrase comes from – the Rubicon was a river in northern Italy) to attack Pompey’s troops, force them south and eventually to invade Rome and be proclaimed ‘dictator for life’ in 44BC.

Caesar did not like the location of the Senate Building (which still stands in the Roman Forum) because the Forum was by then incredibly crowded, dirty, and prone to flooding. He temporarily moved Senate operations to a small meeting hall standing among the columns of the courtyard in front of the theater: the Curia of Pompey.  Less than a month after his appointment as dictator, it was here that Caesar was stabbed to death by his Senators. The location of his death has recently been hypothesized to be in the exact place where you are now standing: Caesar’s great nephew (and adopted son) Augustus had an ‘altar’ built in the place where his father fell, and that block of concrete is in the square you are now looking into.

From here, walk towards the medieval tower (‘the tower of the little Pope’) on the corner of the square. Opposite is Via Paganica. Stroll down this lane until you reach a charming piazza, and admire the beautiful, unusual, but amazingly detailed  Fontana delle Tartarughe (Fountain of the Turtles), designed by Giacomo della Porta in the 16th century.

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The Jewish Ghetto of Rome

This marks the edge of the Roman Ghetto. The first ever ghetto (the word is derived from the Italian word borghetto , meaning ‘little village’) was declared in 1555 by Pope Paul IV as a walled enclave in which Jewish residents of Rome were forced to live. Jews who lived elsewhere in the city, as they had done for 1,300 years when Jewish slaves were brought to Rome following the sack of Jerusalem, lost many rights and had to move to this area, which at the time was one of the worst parts of the city and subject to endless flooding.

Continue straight on through the piazza, down Via della Reginella, and as you walk down the lane, look out for discreet memorials embedded in walls and the ground to memorialize Jews who were murdered during the Second World War, as well as in an attack by the PLO in 1982.

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Over the centuries the literal ghettoization of the population had some inadvertently positive effects: the walls protected its population from Christian mobs, and they were able to practice ancient traditions unmolested. To this day the area has a strongly proud and distinct Roman-Jewish identity, and in 1870 the Great Synagogue of Rome was constructed in the area.

The boundaries of the Ghetto expanded over the years, and eventually the walls became irrelevant. In the meantime a distinct Roman-Jewish culture had arisen, and of particular interest to the visitor is the unique Roman-Jewish cuisine, of which carciofo alla giudea  (Jewish artichoke) is the most famous example. When you reach Via del Portico D’Ottavia turn left, and at this point it is highly recommended that you stop here at one of the many kosher restaurants to try one of the deep-fried Jewish artichokes – they’re delicious.

Carciofo alla Giudea

To learn more about Rome’s Jewish ghetto, take a guided walking tour >

After your snack, continuing a few dozen yards down Via del Portico D’Ottavia, just as the road turns to right you will see an ancient Roman temple and archway. This is the Portico of Octavia, built by Augustus Caesar in honor of his sister, which eventually became one of the world’s first art museums despite being partially destroyed in an earthquake. Beside the ruins there is a walkway that takes you down to the bottom of them. Follow this down and walk between the huge pillars.

Note: sometimes this walkway is closed. If it is, continue on to the end of Via del Portico D’Ottavia, noting the Great Synagogue on your right, turn left onto Lungotevere, then take the first left onto Vico Jugario and left again on to Via del Teatro di Marcello and walk about 100 yards to rejoin the route.

Teatro di Marcello

Eventually you will see the arches of the ‘mini Colosseum’ front of the Teatro di Marcello. This theater was completed in 13BC and was named for Caesar’s nephew Marcellus. It was free for all Roman citizens to watch dramatic performances. Particularly interesting is that the ancient structure was topped by a mansion in the 16th century for the Orsini family, which today is divided into apartments that are still occupied. Opposite the theater is the Temple of Apollo.

San Nicola in Carcere

Turning right as you exit the theater complex, you will immediately see a church, in the walls of which are embedded pillars. This is the Basilica di San Nicola in Carcere (the basilica of St Nicholas in prison), and was built in the 12th century inside the location – and using the standing parts of – three Roman temples (dedicated to Janus, Juno and Spes). If the church is open, it is well worth entering, and paying €3 to descend into the fantastically spooky crypt, which contains the foundations of an earlier 6th century church, a Byzantine jail, and the mouldering bones of unidentified Christians.

Dem bones dem bones

Exiting the church and turning right you find yourself on Via Luigi Petroselli, a straight road lined with government offices. This is the final stretch of Mussolini’s grand road from Ostia on the sea. Looking at the 1920s buildings that line this street it is not difficult to see the link Mussolini was trying to draw between ancient Rome and his own regime.

Stay on this side of the street for a few more yards and you will see a little park with two beautifully preserved temples in it. The rectangular structure was built in the 1st century BC and was dedicated to Portunus, and as with most other well-preserved temples in the city owes its good state to having been used as a Christian church since 872. In particular, the Ionic columns in this temple inspired a generation of 18th century architects on the ‘grand tour’, and they were the model for such constructions throughout Europe.

Beyond this temple is an older, 2nd century BC round temple inspired by Greek architecture, dedicated to Hercules. Of the original 20 Corinthian columns, 19 remain, and there’s a local legend that flies and dogs cannot enter this temple. OK…

Beneath this piazza is part of the ‘cloaca maxima’, the ancient sewer of Rome that dates back to pre-Roman Etruscan times, and is still in partial use by the modern city. Opposite the piazza is the Arch of Janus, which was constructed from marble in the 4th century.

Further down the street, on the left, is the most disappointing attraction in Rome.

Mouth of Truth

Audrey Hepburn and Gregory Peck may have had fun tempting the  Bocca della Verità to bite their hands off by lying to it, but they visited the monument late at night and before it had been popularized by them messing with it in the movie  Roman Holiday . These days it’s seriously oversubscribed and you need to wait in  front of the Basilica di Santa Maria in Cosmedin, where it stands in the porch, in a busy street in the blazing sun with a bunch of other tourists for half an hour or so for your five-second selfie moment. While we don’t discourage you from doing this, it is possible to get a good view of the 1st-century marble mask, that probably originally came from a fountain, through the railings on the front of the church.

Continuing past the line of sweltering tourists and taking the first left onto Via della Creca, a hundred yards will bring you to the corner of the largest sports stadium ever built – in the entire history of the world. The Circus Maximus had a seating capacity of 250,000 people, and is where the chariot racing you see in Ben Hur took place, as well as many other sporting events. So popular was the stadium that the emperor’s palace, which you can see standing tall on the Palatine Hill above the Circus, extended continually towards the stadium so that the emperor could watch the racing without having to deal with the hoi polloi.

Circo Massimo

Today  Circo Massimo is a public park, and its stone seats may still be there, but they are buried under the grass verges. The center of the stadium, the spina (spine), put in to stop the charioteers from cutting corners, is also still visible as a ridge. It was from the center of the spina that the obelisk in the middle of Piazza del Popolo was taken. If you want to take a detour to the far end – a distance of 2,000 feet (more than 600 meters) – you can see the only part of the stadium that is undergoing archaeological excavation, which has revealed seating and the passageways beneath the ‘bleachers’.

Otherwise, take the road that splits diagonally from the corner you’re on, Clivo dei Publici, and follow it as it winds up the Aventine Hill towards one of the most spectacular views in the world.

After a brief uphill stroll you will see some gates on your right. These are the main gates of the Giardino degli Aranci (Garden of the Oranges). This being Rome, they are permanently shut for no good reason, so continue for another few yards to the side entrance. This lovely, peaceful garden, full of orange trees, was originally part of a larger park, made in the 13th century for the Savelli family, but was completed in its present form in 1932. At the far side of the garden is a viewpoint that looks over the entire city, and – as at the  Pincio – provides you with one of the most breathtaking looks at the beauty and ingenuity of human endeavor.

Giardino degli Aranci at sunset.

Leaving the park and continuing in the direction you came, you will pass the 5th century Santa Sabina church and monastery which is well worth a look inside. It’s the oldest continuously occupied basilica in the city, and has been restored to its original simple decor. The remnants of the Roman temple to Juno on which it was built are still visible inside, as well as a 14th century mosaic tomb. Just past it along the road is another small garden, then another church, and then a tiny piazza where you will usually see a short line of people waiting at a door on the right-hand side of the piazza.

This is the door of the headquarters of the Order of the Knights of Malta, an ancient chivalrous Catholic group that has international status. The keyhole in the door is a curiosity: it’s deliberately designed so that looking through it the viewer sees down a line of poplar trees straight to the dome of St Peter’s Basilica, several miles in the distance.

Through the Keyhole

Having gazed at this small wonder, take the Via di Porta Lavernale opposite the door and passing the Catholic university of Sant’Anselmo all’Aventino on your right, head down the hill through a very posh part of Rome. After about five minutes you will join Via Asinio Pollione and then arrive at a t-junction with Via Marmorata.

Directly opposite you is a deli called Volpetti. This place is really worth a little diversion from this walk, as the foods in this shop, from all over Italy, are the best of the best, and the incredibly friendly staff are happy to give you little samples to tempt you to buy cheeses, meats, and a heap of other stuff. The only drawback to entering Volpetti is the amount of money you inadvertently spend when inside.

Turning left out of Via Asinio Pollione (or right out of Volpetti), you will pass two pleasing modern-era architectural achievements: the beautiful 1929 fire station on the right, and a little further on an early 1930s temple to the postal service – a shame the service itself still doesn’t match the modernism of its design.

Palazzo delle Poste

If you take the path directly in front of the gate, to the far wall of the cemetery, to your left you will see one of the most moving statues in Rome: the Angel of Grief, made in 1894 by the sculptor William Wetmore Story for his wife; after completing the statue, he too died and was buried beneath the angel a year later.

In the alcove behind the angel is the memorial to the poet Shelley, who drowned off the coast of Tuscany in a boating accident, with its famous inscription:

Nothing of him that doth fade, But doth suffer a sea-change Into something rich and strange

Heading back to the main path and turning right leads one through the gap in the wall to the older, less crowded part of the cemetery, and at the far corner is the grave of Keats, unmarked because of the ‘bitterness of his heart’, and the even more famous inscription:

Here lies one whose name is writ in water.

Keats died of tuberculosis by the Spanish Steps , angry, desolate, recently arrived but dying, and hating Rome and its food (yes I’m mystified too). His new friend Joseph Severn looked after him in his final days and despite having only known him for four months – and in later life having been an accomplished painter in his own right – had himself and his son prominently interred alongside Keats.

You may want to spend a while here, despite its morbid nature. And despite the tumultuous traffic just outside the walls, there is a pervading sense of peace and tranquility in this place. It’s bucolic and meditative thanks to the original English planners, and has kept this nature thanks the efforts of the (mainly expatriate) volunteers who maintain it. I recommend a donation in the box as you leave to maintain their efforts.

While inside the walls of the cemetery, you will not have missed that towering above the lawn of the cemetery is the pyramid of Gaius Cestius. Cestius was not an emperor, but a magistrate. He had heard tales of the magnificent pyramids of Egypt and decided that he wanted one as his tomb – the impending tombs of important Romans being among the things they valued most even while they lived – and paid for one to be built while he was alive.

The Pyramid of Cestius

His architects didn’t know the precise proportions of an Egyptian pyramid, so when they constructed it from brick and concrete faced with marble, they set the base dimensions to be 100 Roman feet square at the base, but 125 Roman feet high. The result is that when it was finished in 12BC, they something that looks, well, a little bit pointy.

Despite its interior having been sacked and its ancient frescoes destroyed in the middle ages, its marble sides are remarkably intact and thanks both to the pyramid’s incorporation 300 years later into the Aurelian Walls, and also to recent restoration work, they shine white as they intended. Shelley, at Keats’s memorial, described it as “one keen pyramid with wedge sublime”.

Exiting the cemetery, this tour is at an end. You have several choices of where to go now: turn right and right again and you will be at Piramide Metro station from where you can go wherever you want to go in the city.

If you contine past Piramide onto Via Ostiense then turn left at Via Pellegrino Matteucci you will end up at ‘Eataly’, a vast and modern palace/supermarket dedicated to the best and most expensive of Italian food from all over the country.

Turn left, however, and you will end up at Monte Testaccio, a grassy hill made entirely of stacked Roman amphorae into which are dug many bars, clubs and restaurants. Heading right at the hill leads you into the heart of the Testaccio district, and its many amazing traditional Roman restaurants .

Whichever way you choose to go, you will have had just a taste of the ancient city; hopefully you will also go on to have more than a taste of some of the incredible food available in this area. Enjoy!

Key to walking tour of ancient Rome

1. largo di torre argentina.

Part of the Forum outside Pompey’s Theatre, the location of Caesar’s Senate, and where he was subsequently stabbed.

2. Turtle fountain

A strange yet compelling 16th century fountain featuring anatomically correct turtles.

3. Jewish Ghetto

The heart of oldest continuously occupied Jewish ghetto in the world.

4. Portico of Octavia

Once a walkway between temples, then one of the first art museums in the world.

5. Teatro Marcello

A theater to rival the Colosseum that was free to all Romans. Now the foundation for apartments.

6. San Nicola in Carcere

Interesting 12th century church embedded in three Roman temples, with a seriously spooky crypt.

7. Temple of Apollo Sosiano

Some of the best-preserved marble columns in Rome.

8. Temple of Portunus

The columns of this well-preserved temple were the inspiration for many 18th century architects.

9. Temple of Hercules Victor (Foro Boario)

A circular temple on Greek lines, apparently neither flies nor dogs can enter it. Yeah right.

10. Bocca della Verita (The Mouth of Truth)

Gregory and Audrey may have enjoyed lying to this marble face, but that was before everyone else wanted to do it too.

11. Circus Maximus

The largest stadium ever built, its 250,000 capacity is still overlooked by the vast Palatine palace.

12. Giardino degli Aranci (The Garden of the Oranges)

A quiet, beautiful place with Rome’s most stunning view.

13. Aventine Keyhole

Look through the keyhole to see… ?

14. Cimitero Acattolico (The ‘non-Catholic’ cemetery)

The last resting place of Keats, Shelley and Goethe, this is one of the most peaceful places in the city.

15. Piramide (The Pyramid)

This slightly-too-pointy ‘Piramide’ is beautifully preserved.

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Home » Free Itineraries » Ancient Rome Self Guided Tour

Ancient Rome Self Guided Tour

  • Duration: 3 hours
  • Tickets: not needed
  • Accessibility: Partially Accessibile to Wheelchairs
  • Kid-friendly: Yes
  • Best time to visit: 2.30 pm – 6.30 pm

Itinerary Highlights

1 largo argentina.

– Remains of the Temples; – The area where Julius Caesar was assassinated;

2 ALTAR OF THE FATHERLAND

– Il Vittoriano Complex; – Equestrian Statue of King Emmanuel II; – The Altar;

3 CHURCH OF SANTA MARIA IN ARACOELI

4 capitoline hill square, 5 view of the roman forum.

– Via del Campidoglio;

6 ACQUA MARCIA FOUNTAIN

7 via dei fori imperial.

– Forum of Caesar; – Forum of Trajan;

8 COLOSSEUM

9 arch of constantine, 10 circus maximus, do you like this itinerary.

Embark on a self guided tour of the Ancient Rome. Starting from Largo di Torre Argentina, the area where Julius Caesar was murdered, reach Piazza Venezia and the impressive Altar of the Fatherland! Climb up the stairs to reach the church of Santa Maria in Aracoeli and Piazza del Campidoglio. Stun at the ruins of the Roman Forum from Via del Campidoglio and walk down the charming street called Via di San Pietro in Carcere. Head to Via dei Fori Imperiali to discover the ruins of Caesar’s and Trajan’s forum till you reach the Colosseum! Admire the ancient amphitheater from the outside, along with the famous Arch of Constantine. End your self guided tour at Circus Maximus.

1. LARGO ARGENTINA

Largo di Torre Argentina is the most extended complex from the Roman Republican age. The remains of the four temples date back to the 4th and 2nd century BC. Even though they are not imposing in size, they do have a real interesting architecture and history. Indeed, you are standing in the area where Julius Caesar was killed! The murder occurred on the Ides of March next to the temples in the senator’s meeting place nearby Pompeo’s theater.

Go at the west corner of the square next to the tower, then take via delle Botteghe Oscure and walk until the end of the street.

2. ALTAR OF THE FATHERLAND

The imposing monument, known as Altar of the Fatherland or “il Vittoriano” , was designed by Giuseppe Sacconi (1885-1911) and dedicated to the first Italian King Vittorio Emanuele II.

Admire the two colossal chariots of winged victory made in dark bronze contrasting the white marble structure of the monument. The chariots were carried out in 1908 by Carlo Fontana and Pablo Bartolini. The actual altar is located at the centre, crowned with a statue of Roma, at the base of which, the Unknown Soldier monument was placed in 1921, in memory of all those lost in the First World War. On the side of the building there are two museums housing temporary exhibits. On the terrace, there is a caffè offering a beautiful panorama.

Leave the Vittoriano. On the left side of the monument you will see a staircase. Climb up climb the steep stairs to visit the Church of Santa Maria in Aracoeli.

3. SANTA MARIA IN ARACOELI CHURCH

The church rises on the highest point of Campidoglio Square, where the “Arce” or citadel of Rome was located that can be reached only by climbing the 124 steps. The stairway was built in 1348 and dedicated to the Madonna, for having saved the city from a plague. Santa Maria in Aracoeli inherited the glory of the Ancient Campidoglio, becoming the national church of the nobility and people of Rome and seat of the medieval Senate. The church is also important for its relics, frescoes and gilded ceiling.

Climb the lower stairs referred to as the Cordonata, to rise the Capitoline Hill and find Piazza del Campidoglio .

4. CAPITOLINE HILL AND PIAZZA DEL CAMPIDOGLIO

Michelangelo designed this splendid square for Pope Paul III (1534-1549). Two palaces, Palazzo dei Conservatori and Palazzo Nuovo , both part of the Capitoline Museums Complex, overlook the charming piazza. Between them there’s Palazzo Senatorio , which houses the municipality of Rome. Built on the Tabularium, the ancient Roman archives, it is preceded by a stairway with two converging ramps with Roman statues, representing the Nile river, the Minerva and the Tiber river, at the base. The Equestrian Statue at the centre is dedicated to King Emmanuel II.

Facing the Town Hall take the street on the right to discover an amazing view of the Roman Forum from Via del Campidoglio !

5. VIEW THE ROMAN FORUM

The Roman Forum served as the key point of the civil and economic life in Ancient Rome. This was the place has been considered as the heart of Western civilization!

With the Town Hall in front of you, take the street on the left and go down via di San Pietro in Carcere to find the Acqua Marcia Fountain.

6. ACQUA MARCIA FOUNTAIN

The “Marcia Aqueduct” was built by a praetor, Quintus Marcius Rex, between 144 and 140 b.C. and it was financed with the loot taken from Carthage and Corinth after 146 BC. The Marcia was appreciated by the Romans for the quality of its clear, cold water, which came from rainwater running down the slopes of the Simbruini ridge. The water is potable and you can drink it!

Reach via dei Fori Imperiali .

7. VIA DEI FORI IMPERIALI

The long, straight road built in 1932 cuts the Forum ruins in half. On your right stands the Forum of Caesar : consecrated in 46 b.C, and completed during the reign of Augustus after the victories and triumphs of the Gallic wars, it was the first of the so-called Imperial Fora. The Forum of Caesar has rectangular shape and is bordered on all four sides by porticoes. Marvel at the remains, three beautiful columns, of the Temple of Venus Genetrix , dedicated to goddess of motherhood and domesticity.

On the opposite side of Via dei Fori Imperiali stands the Trajan Forum , intentionally commissioned larger and more splendid than the others, with a huge market area inside that served as a new business center for Rome. Right after Trajan’s Market there’s the Forum of Augustus which still retains three, 45 feet-high Corinthian columns from the grandiose Temple of Mars Ultor (Mars the Avenger).

8. THE COLOSSEUM

The huge amphitheatre was started in 72 a.D. by Vespasian and finished by his son Titus in the 80 AD. Domitian added some finishing touches in 81.The actual name of the Colosseum is “Flavian Amphitheatre” after the Flavian dynasty, but is commonly referred to as the Coliseum or Colosseum because of the colossal statue of Emperor Nero that once raised nearby. In its heyday, the massive amphitheatre served as a location for state functions. However, the events the Romans preferred the most were the circus games (ludi circenses), which primarily consisted in ferocious animal hunts, gladiator battles and even mock naval battles.

9. ARCH OF CONSTANTINE

Built in honor of Emperor Constantine, who was the first to officially recognize Christianity in 4th century AD, the arch features three archways and beautiful bas-reliefs. It bears an inscription in memory of Emperor Constantine’s victory over his rival Maxentius and the forthcoming affirmation of Christianity.

With the Arch of Constantine behind you, take via di San Gregorio. At the end of the street take a left turn and reach Circo Massimo.

10. CIRCUS MAXIMUS

Circus Maximus was basically a mass entertainment venue in Rome , an ancient stadium built especially for chariot races and public games connected to Roman religious festivals. Circus Maximus, the first and largest stadium in ancient Rome, became a model for next circuses. Today, Romans still use it for jogging and walking!

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In an imaginary competition of European cities over cultural heritage, Rome would be without match. Its combination of haunting ruins, soaring domes silhouetted against distant hills, and ornate palaces serves as a constant reminder of its place at the forefront of European history.

Urbs' audio tours of Rome are the ultimate way to see the sights, including the many hidden gems dotted throughout the city. Whether you’re visiting for a day trip or longer, there’s no better way to take it all in than a self-guided walking tour of Rome.

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When in Rome

From the romance of the movies, to the history of the Roman period, from fast-fashion, to fast cars, and not forgetting some of the best food in the world. Rome is one of the most charming cities, that will have you under its spell in no time.Self-guided tours of Rome are undoubtedly the best way to see the city. With an abundance of information to take in, be it by foot or car, an audio tour of Rome allows you to take it all in as you go. Simply download the app to your smartphone, plug in your headphones and get ready for a sensory journey like no other. Best of all, you get to curate your own waking tour, using recommendations from experts.

Explore the very best of Rome

​ Whether you’re a lover or a blogger, a family or a couple – you’ll find everything you came for in Rome. If you’re not sure where to start, here are just some of the highlights and locations to add to your schedule anytime anywhere to ensure your self-guided walking tour of Rome is epic!

World-famous architecture

As you’d expect for a city 2,800 years old, there’s plenty of culture, history and fascinating things on every corner. For jaw-dropping architecture, head to the Roman Forum and the Colosseum for ruins that span back decades. Along the way you’ll likely stumble across the Spanish Steps at the foot of the Piazza Trinità dei Monti. Finally, cameras at the ready for Castel Sant Angelo – a towering monument nearly as old as the city itself.

La Dolce Vita

​ The Italians call it ‘La dolce vita’ – you might know it as the good life. Rome isn’t just for sightseeing after all, it’s for taking in all that’s good and great about local culture – not to mention the epic gelato! Wander around a piazza, throw a cent in a fountain and make a wish! Listen to local music over a delicious gelato, and have a leisurely coffee whilst checking your email at a local café. It’s amazing how you can lose a day to its comforting cobbled streets – Europe at its finest.

Rome is an open-air museum in itself, but some of the real gems are to be found in its galleries and museums, where simply everything is impressive. You’ve probably seen friends take selfies on their Facebook page at the National Gallery of Modern Art, which is a must for art-lovers featuring over 4,400 works of art. Another to add to your audio tour of Rome are the Capitoline Museums, said to be the oldest in the world, and full of ancient artefacts. Go at your own pace with the Urbs app and take it all in.

Pizza, pasta, primi

​ Italy’s devotion to food is best experienced in Rome. As seen in the film Eat Pray Love, it’s a city of culinary exploration as much as anything else. This is not hard to miss, since great food is easy to come by. If you’re here for the pizza, and let’s be honest, who isn’t, then hot-foot it to Pizzeria Ai Marmi, an institution in the city that will remind you why Italians do the best pizza.

Religious landmarks

As you explore the city, be sure to add Vatican City and the Vatican Museums to your audio tour of Rome. It’s one of the top sites, attracting visitors from all corners of the world - from Australia to Greece and all that’s in between. As well as the masterpieces on show and the dazzling architecture, it’s the perfect place for reflection as the home to the Pope of the Catholic Church.

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Rome by app

The Urbs app is designed to help you get the most out of your trip. Simply download the app on your iPhone or Android smartphone, and start to plan your route. Did you know that there’s more to the app than just audio tours? Here are a couple of additional benefits…

Insider tips

Sure, you want to visit all the big ticket events and locations. However, you also want to get off the beaten track. Our team of cultural experts and local writers have selected their favourite attractions, so you can mix and match your trip and create a one-off experience and audio tour of Rome.

Get your tickets

​ Rome is a busy destination with visitors all-year round. Don’t miss out on the top attractions – instead use the app to book tickets and save them to your smartphone.

Do it your way

​ The joy of curating your own self-guided walking tour of Rome is the option to go at your own pace. Choose from pre-selected walking tours, or build your own. The interface is easy to use and accessible.

Download the app

Planning a trip to Rome? Then don’t miss the chance to access the city in this audio feast, now available to download on Android and iOS devices.

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The Intrepid Guide

Self-Guided Trastevere Walking Tour: Where to see Rome’s Most Beautiful Streets

trastevere walking tour - Via della luce

Across Rome’s Tiber river lies a former working-class neighbourhood that today is one of the city’s most beautiful hangouts and best places to stay in Rome. Lining the cobblestone streets of Trastevere are many of Rome’s best restaurants and pizzerias, tucked away inside charming medieval buildings. Here’s how to see Rome’s most picturesque streets with my self-guided Trastevere walking tour.

Before I became The Intrepid Guide, I only ever documented my 3 years in Rome with thousands of photos and an equal amount of albums on Facebook. After recently heading back to Rome for a close friend’s wedding, I allowed some extra time to go back and capture different pockets of the city and provide inspirational and practical guides on how to best experience Rome . What better place to start than with a self-guided walking tour around Trastevere.

What I love about Rome is that you can get around the city on foot and see everything on your checklist,  Trastevere is no exception same. But since it’s a residential area, it’s harder to know where to go plus there is very little information available. Enter my guide to Trastevere. Below I’ll give you an itinerary with a list of the most beautiful streets, churches and fountains that you should see during your visit to Rome.

But first…

A Brief History of Trastevere

Located on the west bank of the Tiber just south of Vatican City, Trastevere is the 13th rione (district) of Rome. Coming from Latin, Trastevere literally means “trans Tiberim” or “beyond the Tiber”. It’s not a very exciting name in English but somehow it always sound better in Latin.

The rione has been around since the times of ancient Rome and from there grew to become part of the city in the Middle Ages. In ancient times it was considered to be in the outskirts of Rome and for many centuries served as a kind of crossroads.

Originally, the area was occupied by the Etruscans who were later defeated. Before societies elite moved here, it was a settlement for immigrants from the Middle East.

By the Middle Ages, the area was abandoned during the Barbarian invasion before it repopulated and grew exponentially.

All this history has made Trastevere famous for its characteristic narrow, cobbled streets and medieval buildings that illuminate in the golden afternoon sun.

When to visit Trastevere

self guided trastevere walking tour with trastevere rome map

How to get to Trastevere

The best and easiest way to reach Trastevere is by taking the tram from either Piazza Venezia or Largo di Torre Argentina. Even though it’s a short enough distance to walk, you’re better off saving your energy for the walking tour. Be sure you wear comfy shoes as the cobblestones are very unforgiving.

Self-Guided Trastevere Walking Tour

Put your comfy shoes on, grab that camera because this walking tour is like a postcard come to life. Below is a map of Trastevere which marks all the spots visited in this walking itinerary of Trastevere.

1. Via della Lungaretta

trastevere walking tour - Via della lungaretta colourful buildings

2. Vicolo della Luce

trastevere walking tour - Via della luce

Half way down Via della Lungaretta is Vicolo della Luce, or ‘Alley of Light’. This street was made famous in a 19th century painting by E. Roesler Franz, an Italian painter and photographer. Spend a moment here and admire the medieval style home which even after restoration and reconstruction still manages to catapult you back in time.

3. Via in Piscinula

trastevere walking tour - Via in Piscinula

Continuing along Via della Lungaretta, pass through Piazza in Piscinula, it’s here that you’ll fall in love with Trastevere. From Spring, vines drip from the buildings as they inject an explosion of green along the rustic orange facades. Walk the entire length of Via in Piscinula before heading to Via Titta Scarpetta.

trastevere walking tour - Via in Piscinula vines hanging from buildings

4. Via Titta Scarpetta

trastevere walking tour - via titta scarpetta

Equally quaint, this narrow street is a kind of open museum with many archeological artifacts, columns, capitals, friezes, portraits and religious medallions embedded in the walls of the buildings. This display of ancient finds harps back to an ancient tradition of exhibiting such uncovered artefacts.

The name of the street is unclear with several theories going around. Some say it could have derived from a soldier named Titta Scarpetta who lived in this street and sacrificed his life in 1559 during the siege of Malta against the Turks, thus preventing the conquest of the island.

Others believe the name derived from the sign of an inn that later gave the street its name. Another explanation is that it came from an ancient marble fragment of a Roman statue that depicted a shod foot which was stuck in the wall at the corner of the alley that later disappeared.

5. Vicolo dell’Atleta

trastevere walking tour - Vicolo dell'Atleta

The name Vicolo dell’Atleta, meaning ‘Athlete Alley’ comes from a statue of an athlete found here in the 19th century. Today, it can be found in the Vatican Museums. Before it was Vicolo dell’Atleta it was called Vicolo delle Palme or ‘Palm Alley’. This area was the site of first Jewish Roman settlement, so it makes sense that the palm and symbol of the Judea, ( in medieval times pilgrims carried with them to Jerusalem) left its mark in the streets original name.

trastevere walking tour - Vicolo dell'Atleta terrace

Around year 1,000 the Jews built Rome’s first synagogue here. In the 18th century, the synagogue collapsed which saw the Jews move to the ghetto. Today, in the synagogue’s presumed location stands a medieval house with beautiful arches and columns.

6. Basilica di Santa Cecilia

trastevere walking tour - Basilica di Santa Cecilia

7. Chiesa di San Francesco a Ripa

For those interested in Francis of Assisi, it’s worth paying a visit to Chiesa di San Francesco a Ripa. This church was named after the Saint who lived here while he was visiting the Pope. The name ‘a Ripa’ comes from Porto Di Ripa Grande sul Tevere which is located behind it.

Not to be missed, is the emotive marble masterpiece ‘Blessed Ludovica Albertoni’ (‘Estasi di Beata Ludovica Albertoni’) sculpted by Gian Lorenzo Bernini between 1671-1674.

Heading west, it’s time to explore the other side of Trastevere.

8. Via di San Gallicano

trastevere walking tour - Via della lungaretta looking towards giancolo

9. Chiesa Sant’Agata in Trastevere

The 18th-century Church of Sant’Agata in Trastevere is home to the statue of the Virgin Carmen (Vergine del Carmelo). The faithful carry the statue in the procession ‘Festa de Noantri’ which dates back to the start of the 16th century.

This religious celebration of the Madonna of Mount Carmel takes place between 16-31 July and is one of the last popular religious festivals remaining in Rome.

10. Piazza di Santa Maria in Trastevere

trastevere walking tour - santa maria in trastevere

Guidebook-toting tourists, students of the nearby University and locals give this piazza a dual personality. By day the glittering gold mosaics of Basilica of Santa Maria dazzle onlookers before giving way to the atmospheric warm nights with bustling bars and alfresco dining tables.

As the heartbeat of Trastevere, various markets, musical and cultural events take place in the piazza.

11. Basilica di Santa Maria in Trastevere

After being under restoration for an extended period, Basilica di Santa Maria in Trastevere is finally back to her shining glory.

Dating back to the 3rd century, Basilica di Santa Maria in Trastevere is one of the oldest churches of Rome and without a doubt the most important place of worship in Trastevere.

Its most famous feature is its large 13th-century mosaics by Pietro Cavallini. Above the entrance is a huge golden mosaic which glimmers in the golden sun throughout the day.

Making a slight detour, make your way to Via della Cisterna to see Fontana della Botte.

12. Fontana delle Botte

trastevere walking tour - Via della fontana

Built in 1927, the fountain shows the elements necessary for the production and consumption of wine including the barrel, the wine vat, and the two containers at the side of the barrel commonly called ‘quartini’ by Romans.

trastevere walking tour - Via della cisterna purple fiat

13. Vicolo del Piede

trastevere walking tour - Vicolo del Piede

Retrace your steps towards Piazza di Santa Maria in Trastevere and step off the beaten track to the quiet Vicolo del Piede, aka Foot Alley.

This tiny narrow street is a photographers dream with plants scaling the walls of the houses.

14. Via del Moro and Caffè Moro

trastevere walking tour - Via del moro

Dating back to the end of the nineteenth century, you’ll find the historical Caffè Moro, one of oldest cafès still active in Italy. The cafè still has its original sign in painted wrought iron which goes back to the Abyssinian War at the end of the 19th century.

15. Vicolo de’ Cinque

trastevere walking tour - vicolo de cinque bar

Want to learn more about Roman food? Join this popular Roman Food tour in Trastevere.

16. Piazza Trilussa and Fontana di Ponte Sisto

trastevere walking tour - piazza trilussa monument

Piazza Trilussa was named after the Italian poet Carlo Alberto Salustri, better known by his pen name of Trilussa. He was famous for his poems written in the dialect of Rome, Romanesco. To the side of the piazza is a monument dedicated to Trilussa.

17. Vicolo Moroni

trastevere walking tour - vicolo moroni bar

18. Via della Scala

trastevere walking tour - piazza della scala

19. Fontana del Prigione

Before heading up Janiculum Hill, swing passed Fontana del prigione or ‘Prison Fountain’.

This fountain was originally one of the monuments that adorned the famous Montalto villa, the private residence of Pope Sisto V. Sadly, the villa disappeared in 1887 during the construction of Termini Station.

The fountain was dismantled and held in the Ministry of the Interior warehouses before it was later reassembled and placed in Via Mameli. Its name comes from a group of statues which formed part of the original composition depicting Apollo, Venus and a prisoner.

20. Chiesa di San Pietro in Montorio

trastevere walking tour - Chiesa di San Pietro in Montorio

Unassuming from the outside, this church boasts incredible artwork from artists including Gian Lorenzo Bernini, Daniele da Volterra and Sebastian del Piombo.

21. Fontana dell’Acqua Paola

trastevere walking tour - Fontana dell’Acqua Paola

Located on the slopes of Janiculum Hill with gorgeous views over Rome’s historical centre, the fountain was built in 1612 to mark the end of the Acqua Paola aqueduct. It was restored by Pope Paul V from whom it took its name.

22. Gianicolo / Janiculum Hill

trastevere walking tour - view from giancolo sunset

This makes it the perfect spot to end our Trastevere walking tour. From here you’ll get the best view of Rome that will take your breath away.

Even though Rome is known for its seven hills, Gianicolo (or Janiculum) is located on the eighth hill. It’s not included with the other hills because it sits outside of the ancient city walls.

Each day at noon a single cannon shot is fired from Gianicolo marking the exact time. This tradition that dates back to the 19th century. With that said, the best time to see Roman’s favourite view, is from late afternoon to sunset. There is a bar located near the lookout which means you can enjoy an Aperol Spritz (Italy and my favourite apertif) and light snacks, whilst enjoying pink skies form over Rome.

Also up here are the busts of heroes from the Italian Risorgimento, the 19th-century movement (and wars) that unified modern Italy. At its centre is a huge statue of the great hero Giuseppe Garibaldi on horseback.

And this concludes this walking tour around Rome’s most beautiful streets.

While this isn’t an exhaustive tour of Trastevere, it covers the major points of interest and will help you discover the smaller and quieter side of this popular part of Rome. Be sure to stray from the itinerary when something catches your eye, you never know what you’ll find.

Buona passeggiata! Enjoy your walk! Don’t miss my Rome video guide below.

Looking for a place to stay in Rome? Don’t miss my guide to the best areas to stay in Rome and top accommodation recommendations.

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Trastevere walking tour - The Most Beautiful Streets in Rome (itinerary with map)

Over to you!

Have to you visited Trastevere? What else would you recommend doing to seeing? Tell me below! Let me know using the comments section below or join me on social media to start a conversation.

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rome walking tour self guided

Michele creates language learning guides and courses for travel. What separates her from other instructors is her ability to explain complex grammar in a no-nonsense, straightforward manner using her unique 80/20 method. Get her free guide 9 reasons you’re not fluent…YET & how to fix it! Planning a trip? Learn the local language with her 80/20 method for less than the cost of eating at a tourist trap restaurant Start learning today!

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rome walking tour self guided

We wanted to thank you for this post. We are two retired Canadians who stayed in Trastevere for a week. We used it today to guide ourselves around Trastevere. We did get lost a few times (no help from a few missing via signs) but figuring it out was half of the fun. We appreciated your background research for the many different areas. We would never have seen a bunch of sites you feature if not for your article. Thanks for your work on this – it was a fun morning!

I’m so happy to hear you enjoyed this guide and had a lovely trip to Rome :)

rome walking tour self guided

Thank you, Madam ! Very romantic !

“Rome, thou art a whole world, it is true, and yet without love this World would not be the world, Rome would cease to be Rome…”

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Europe , Italy · April 11, 2019

First Time Guide to Rome Italy

Rome is called the Eternal City because ancient Romans believed that Rome was invincible.

They believed Rome was untouchable, that no matter what happened or how many empires came and collapsed, Rome would go on forever.  And it has.

As soon as you step foot inside the city, you will be immediately drawn in by its cobblestone streets, outdoor cafes and fascinating history.

If you are planning your first trip, this walking tour of Rome includes the top tourist spots as well as an invitation to discover the true authentic beauty of Rome.

First time guide to Rome | The best walking tour to see it all #rome #italy #simplywander

I would recommend setting aside at least two days to visit all the sites on this walking tour of Rome.

The green markers on the map are food recommendations so that you can be sure to find some delicious Italian cuisine wherever you are on the walking tour.

The Best Self-Guided Walking Tour of Rome:

Here is a link to the full map.

1. The Colosseum

We’ll start the walking tour at the Colosseum. This is one of the most recognizable landmarks and one of the most visited tourist attractions in the world.

It is interesting to note that the original facade was made of white travertine hauled by horse and cart from Tivoli for 4 years.

After the Colosseum was abandoned, much of it was removed and used to build St Peter’s Basilica and other churches and monuments.

First time guide to Rome Italy | Simply Wander #rome #italy #simplywander

The Colosseum took 10 years to build at the hands of Jewish slaves. The Colosseum is most well known for its gruesome gladiator fights.

Participants included not only paid gladiators, but also slaves and criminals who were sentenced to death.

Gladiators originated from the lower class but success in the arena could catapult them to stardom with riches and fame.

The massive amphitheater was also used for animal hunts, battle re-enactments, performances, and public executions. They would sometimes even flood the Colosseum to re-enact mock sea battles.

First time guide to Rome Italy | Simply Wander #rome #italy #simplywander

It is estimated that around 500,000 people and one million animals lost their lives during battles and games in the Colosseum.

The most epic games took place during a 123-day celebration of Emperor Trajan’s victories in Dacia. The brutal contests involved around 10,000 gladiators and 11,000 animals.

First time guide to Rome

Animals were brought from all over to be slaughtered at the games. The most popular species were bears, hippos, elephants, tigers, lions, and jaguars.

As you can imagine, this had a devastating effect on the animal population. Entire species were wiped out during this time period.

Tips for visiting the Colosseum | First time guide to Rome: Top things to do in Rome #rome #italy #colosseum #simplywander

There are countless stories and historical facts just waiting to be absorbed. To make the most of your visit, book a guided or self-guided audio tour.

Tips for visiting the Colosseum | First time guide to Rome: Top things to do in Rome #rome #italy #colosseum #simplywander

We recommend Get Your Guide as a reputable site. This is not sponsored, we just know there are plenty of sketchy tours and wanted to pass along a trustworthy recommendation.

I would highly recommend reserving a tour that includes a skip-the-line ticket.

First time guide to Rome

I would also recommend downloading Rick Steve’s Audio Europe app. He includes an insightful self-guided audio tour of the Colosseum that I liked even better than the audio tour we purchased through the Colosseum.

If we were to do it again, I would save the money on the auido guide and just use the app.

Tips for visiting the Colosseum | First time guide to Rome: Top things to do in Rome #rome #italy #colosseum #simplywander

For the best photo op, walk across the street and up a set of stairs to Via Nicola Salvi.

You’ll find some restaurants and a ledge that is perfect for capturing your photo in front of the Colosseum without the hordes of tourists and imminent construction.

Tips for visiting the Colosseum | First time guide to Rome: Top things to do in Rome #rome #italy #colosseum #simplywander

2. Roman Forum

Just outside the west end of the Colosseum, you’ll find the entrance to the Roman Forum.

Tips for visiting the Roman Forum | First time guide to Rome: Top things to do in Rome #rome #italy #romanforum #simplywander

Most Colosseum tickets include entrance to the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill as well, but you will need to go through a security checkpoint before entering the Forum.

Unfortunately, there are no “skip the line” ticket options here.

Tips for visiting the Roman Forum | First time guide to Rome: Top things to do in Rome #rome #italy #romanforum #simplywander

There are actually 3 separate entrances to the Forum, the one right off the Colosseum tends to the busiest.

If the line is long, head over to the entrance at Largo della Salara Vecchia, just off at Via dei Fori Imperiali. Or the Palatine Hill entrance at Via di San Gregorio.

First time guide to Rome Italy

When purchasing your combo ticket, many of the audio guides are only for the Colosseum.

However, once again Rick Steves has an awesome free audio guide to the Roman Forum on his Audio Europe app that I would recommend downloading.

First time guide to Rome Italy

The Roman Forum was the beating heart of ancient Rome. It was the political, religious, social and administrative center of the empire.

It took over 100 years to unearth the remains. As you walk among the ruins it feels like a hodgepodge of buildings. That is because over the centuries they would build over earlier ruins.

Tips for visiting the Roman Forum | First time guide to Rome: Top things to do in Rome #rome #italy #romanforum #simplywander

The Via Sacra is the main road through the Forum. It was part of the 50,000-mile network of paved roads throughout the empire.

First time guide to Rome Italy

Most of the structures were built during the reign of Julius Caesar. Many important temples were erected here, the most prominent being the temple of Venus and Rome.

First time guide to Rome Italy

Three triumphal arches can also be found. The Forum was also home to banks, public bathhouses, market stalls, and political venues.

First time guide to Rome

Another notable building is the Mamertine Prison where it is believed Peter and Paul were incarcerated in its dungeon.

Tips for visiting the Roman Forum | First time guide to Rome: Top things to do in Rome #rome #italy #romanforum #simplywander

Palatine Hill is along the south side of the Forum and is considered to be the Beverly Hills of ancient Rome.

Boasting lavish palaces and manicured gardens overlooking the Forum, this was home to Roman society’s most elite.

Today you can walk up the stairs to a terrace with a large fountain overlooking the Forum.

The Forum truly is remarkable. Be sure to take advantage of a guided or self guided audio tour to experience history coming alive.

3. Trajan Forum

Just north of the Forum, you’ll come across Trajan’s Forum.

This forum was not only the last, but also the largest and most elaborate of all the Imperial Forums.

Trajan's Forum | Take this easy self-guided walking tour of Rome #rome #italy #trajansforum #simplywander

This Forum was seen as one of the architectural wonders of the world. It housed two massive basilicas, two libraries and an impressive six-story market that would be the equivalent of today’s shopping mall.

A temple was later added after Trajan’s death.

4. Piazza Venezia

At the end of the road, you’ll come to Piazza Venezia. This is a busy square where four major roads intersect. It may have a chaotic feel to it, but this piazza actually holds historic significance.

Piazza Venezia is where Mussolini would rally up the crowds and is the spot where he declared the beginning of World War II.

First time guide to Rome Italy

Overlooking the piazza on the south side, you’ll find the National Monument to Victor Emanuel II. This is Rome’s largest statue honoring the first king of United Italy.

First time guide to Rome Italy

Underneath the statue, you’ll find the tomb of the unknown soldier.

First time guide to Rome Italy

If you head up the stairs you’ll discover a free museum inside the building.

Piazza Venezia | Take this easy self-guided walking tour of Rome #rome #italy #piazzavenezia #simplywander

5. Trevi Fountain

The Trevi Fountain is located about an 8-minute walk from Piazza Venezia.

The fountain is just as enchanting in person as you may have imagined. The grandeur of this baroque fountain is truly magnificent.

Trevi Fountain | Take this easy self-guided walking tour of Rome #rome #italy #trevifountain #simplywander

The Trevi fountain is the oldest water source in Rome and took over 100 years to complete.

The fountain sits at the end of the Aqua Virgo Aqueduct where three streets converge. “Three streets” translates to “tre vie”, which is how the fountain got its name.

Trevi Fountain | Take this easy self-guided walking tour of Rome #rome #italy #trevifountain #simplywander

It is interesting to note that the funding for the fountain came from the Roman lottery game.

Trevi Fountain | Take this easy self-guided walking tour of Rome #rome #italy #trevifountain #simplywander

Visitors wishing to return to Rome throw a coin over their shoulder for good luck.

With millions of tourists flocking to the fountain each year, that adds up to about 3,000 euros each day. The money is collected and donated to a local charity.

Trevi Fountain | Take this easy self-guided walking tour of Rome #rome #italy #trevifountain #simplywander

I wasn’t prepared for how crowded it was. We visited in the offseason and were elbow to elbow with tourists. Early morning or late at night is your best bet to get a little space.

All the crowds make this a hot spot for pickpocketing. Be sure to keep your valuables close.

I would recommend a travel money belt , and if you have a backpack, be sure to carry it in the front. You might feel silly, but so many people do it, even the locals.

But if you want to escape the crowds and experience the Trevi Fountain in a unique way, check out this secret archeological site under the Trevi Fountain!

Another little hidden gem is the Lover’s fountain to the right of the Trevi Fountain.

Trevi Fountain | Take this easy self-guided walking tour of Rome #rome #italy #trevifountain #simplywander

Just look for a little walkway to the right of the fountain, then follow the steps up and you’ll see a small little fountain.

This is the Lover’s Fountain and legend has it that if lovers drink from the fountain they will find lasting love.

The tradition started during WWII when the soldiers had to leave their fiancés behind.

The girl would come to the fountain with a brand new glass and fill it with water for her boyfriend to drink. After drinking it, she had to break the glass to seal their love.

The Lover’s Fountain is a romantic little part of history and a cool little hidden gem in Rome!

6. Spanish Steps

The short walk to the Spanish Steps will take you through charming pastel alleyways and past open-air cafes. You’ll feel like you’re in a movie set.

Take this easy self-guided walking tour of Rome #rome #italy #simplywander

Once you arrive at the Spanish Steps, it may feel a little anti-climatic. I have to admit, I didn’t really see what was so special about a staircase. And after being there, I still don’t get what the hype is all about.

This is the widest staircase in all of Europe with 138 uniquely shaped steps, but they are just steps after all. And really crowded steps at that.

Hundreds of people can be found lounging on the steps, although keep in mind that it is illegal to eat on the steps and there are police keeping an eye out.

But what I did love about the Spanish Steps was the vibrant energy and the incredible view from the top.

The Piazza di Spagna is located at the foot of the steps and is a lively square.

Piazza di Spagna | Take this easy self-guided walking tour of Rome #rome #italy #piazzadispagna #simplywander

Once you make it to the top, take in the sweeping views then step inside the beautiful Trinità dei Monti church.

View from the Spanish Steps | Take this easy self-guided walking tour of Rome #rome #italy #spanishsteps #simplywander

Around the corner you’ll find a small pasta shop, Pastificio. This no-nonsense mom and pop shop came highly recommended to me by a friend and it did not disappoint.

Pastificio for delicious, cheap, authentic pasta | First time guide to Rome #rome #italy #simplywander

Each day they make only 2 or 3 types of pasta. The generous portions are served up in a to-go container for only $4. The pasta is divine, and can best be enjoyed if you head up the hill to the Borghese Gardens.

Pastificio for delicious, cheap, authentic pasta | First time guide to Rome #rome #italy #simplywander

These city gardens are reminiscent of New York’s Central Park. They offer a breath of fresh air and a respite from the crowds.

Borghese Gardens | Take this easy self-guided walking tour of Rome #rome #italy #borghesegardens #simplywander

You could easily spend a half-day strolling the paths, visiting the museum, or renting bicycles and exploring the “secret gardens”. You’ll also be rewarded with spectacular views over the city.

Take this easy self-guided walking tour of Rome #rome #italy #simplywander

We didn’t have much time to spend here, but you can find more information for visiting the gardens here.

7. The Pantheon

From the Spanish Steps, head over to the Pantheon and prepare to be amazed.

Interesting facts about the Pantheon | Take this easy self-guided walking tour of Rome #rome #italy #pantheon #simplywander

I had seen pictures, but pictures can not do the Pantheon justice. The sheer scale of the columns alone is enough to leave you speechless.

Interesting facts about the Pantheon | Take this easy self-guided walking tour of Rome #rome #italy #pantheon #simplywander

As you enter into the 2000-year-old temple through the double 21-foot bronze doors, your eyes will be immediately drawn up to the enormous domed ceiling.

This is the largest non-reinforced dome in the world and it is unfathomable to consider the logistics of how it was constructed by hand 2000 years ago.

At the center of the dome, you’ll find the Oculus. This is an open hole, so notice the drains on the floor to catch the rain if it comes in.

If you’re lucky enough, you’ll see the sun shining through creating the world’s longest pillar of light at 142 feet.

Interesting facts about the Pantheon | Take this easy self-guided walking tour of Rome #rome #italy #pantheon #simplywander

The Pantheon is one of the most well-preserved buildings in all of Rome. It was originally a temple but is currently an active church. In fact, it has been in continuous use since it was first dedicated.

It is also the final resting place for Victor Emmanuel II (first king of unified Italy), Raphael and other beloved artists and notable dignitaries.

Interesting facts about the Pantheon | Take this easy self-guided walking tour of Rome #rome #italy #pantheon #simplywander

Entrance is free and a visit is definitely one of the top things to do in Rome. The square surrounding the Pantheon is dotted with cafes, street buskers, and a fountain (one of the 280 fountains you’ll find in the city).

Interesting facts about the Pantheon | Take this easy self-guided walking tour of Rome #rome #italy #pantheon #simplywander

Not far from the Pantheon, you’ll find our favorite gelato shop, Gelateria del Teatro.

Where to find the best gelato in Rome | Gelateria del Teatro #rome #italy #gelato #simplywander

I would recommend the Ricotta + Fig, or the White Chocolate + Basil. You have to get adventurous and try unique flavors when in Rome! At only about 3 euro a cone, you can afford to go back and try a variety of flavor combinations!

Where to find the best gelato in Rome | Gelateria del Teatro #rome #italy #gelato #simplywander

Gelato shops are a dime a dozen around the city, but a friend shared a tip on how to spot authentic gelato. The real stuff is kept flat in the metal tins.

If you look into a shop and see the gelato whipped high and fluffy, just keep walking. It’s like the Dairy Queen version whipped with additives.

Around the corner you’ll find the cutest little alley that captures the essence of Rome. It used to be a cafe with outdoor seating (Cucina del Teatro), I was sad to see that it had closed down.

Take this easy self-guided walking tour of Rome #rome #italy #simplywander

8. Piazza Navona and Campo di Fiori

You’ll find many Piazzas scattered throughout the city that are an irresistible mecca for tourists and locals alike. Two notable Piazzas near the Pantheon are Piazza Navona and Campo di Fiori.

Piazza Navona | Take this easy self-guided walking tour of Rome #rome #italy #simplywander

They are both lined with shops, cafes, churches, and winding side streets.

Take this easy self-guided walking tour of Rome #rome #italy #simplywander

In the center of Piazza Navona, you’ll find Bernini’s Fountain of Rivers. Campo di Fiori is home to the statue of the philosopher Giordano Bruno.

Music fills the air of both Piazzas as you stroll around shopping for trinkets and admiring the work of local artists. It is the perfect spot to spend a warm summer evening.

Piazza Navona | Take this easy self-guided walking tour of Rome #rome #italy #simplywander

Campo di Fiori hosts a morning market selling fresh produce and goods from local artisans. It is reminiscent of a busy medieval marketplace.

Piazza Navona | Take this easy self-guided walking tour of Rome #rome #italy #simplywander

If you’re looking for a place to eat near Piazza Navona, Pizzeria Baffetto was recommended as a delicious and inexpensive option.

9. Castel Sant’ Angelo and the Tiber River

The Castel Sant’ Angelo (Castle of the Holy Angel) is situated on the banks of the Tiber River. This building has had an interesting history over the years.

This imposing structure was originally constructed as a mausoleum for the emperor Hadrian and his family in 130 AD.

Castel Sant' Angelo | The best self-guided walking tour of Rome #rome #italy #castelsanangelo #simplywander

It was later incorporated into the city wall and became an impenetrable fortress defending the northern entrance of Rome during the barbaric invasions.

In the 14th century, a secret fortified passageway from the Vatican was constructed for the protection of the pope and papal community. A treasury room was also created to safeguard the pope’s valuables.

A more dark and sinister part of the mausoleum’s history includes being used as a brutal prison where prisoners were tortured and even executed in the courtyard. Today the Castel Sant’ Angelo serves as a museum.

The museum can be reached by crossing a bridge over the Tiber River. The Tiber River has long since been an important vein running through the heart of Rome.

Tiber River | The best self-guided walking tour of Rome #rome #italy #tiberriver #simplywander

It served a vital role in the early trade and commerce of the city as ships brought goods up and down the river.

Legend also has it that the founders of Rome, twins Romulus and Remus, were abandoned as infants on the banks of the Tiber River where they were rescued by the she-wolf, Lupa.

Today you can enjoy a leisurely scenic stroll along the banks where you can find multiple bridge crossings leading to the Vatican City and Travestere.

Tiber River | The best self-guided walking tour of Rome #rome #italy #tiberriver #simplywander

10. The Vatican City

You could easily spend a half day exploring Vatican City.

Considered the world’s smallest country, Vatican City is home to St Peter’s Basilica, the Vatican Museum (where you can find Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel), and the Vatican Gardens.

Visiting the Vatican Museum | The best self-guided walking tour of Rome #rome #italy #vaticanmuseum #simplywander

The Vatican Museum is a feast for the eyes and can be borderline sensory overload.

Visiting the Vatican Museum | The best self-guided walking tour of Rome #rome #italy #vaticanmuseum #simplywander

With over 20,000 of the most renowned sculptures and Renaissance masterpieces, it is one of the largest museums in the world and the 4th most visited.

Visiting the Vatican Museum | The best self-guided walking tour of Rome #rome #italy #vaticanmuseum #simplywander

There is just so much to take in, each opulent room is in competition with the next.

Visiting the Vatican Museum | The best self-guided walking tour of Rome #rome #italy #vaticanmuseum #simplywander

Visitors are herded through a maze of seemingly endless hallways and rooms until finally reaching the crowning jewel, the Sistine Chapel.

Visiting the Vatican Museum | The best self-guided walking tour of Rome #rome #italy #vaticanmuseum #simplywander

Although it is a bit claustrophobic at times, it is worth a visit. Experiencing one of Michelangelo’s greatest works of art in person is surreal.

No matter what time of year you visit, it is bound to be crowded so a skip the line ticket is highly recommended. If you want to visit the Vatican Gardens, that requires a separate ticket.

Near the entrance to the Vatican Museum, you’ll find an excellent sandwich shop called Deucentogradi, or 200 Gradi. This was a local referral from our Airbnb host so we knew it would be good.

There is a wide selection and the ingredients are fresh. The bread is perfectly crusty and chewy, I am still craving it!

Continue around the city wall to enter Saint Peter’s Square. Here you’ll find St Peter’s Basilica. This is the burial place for St Peter and has the largest interior of any Christian church.

First time guide to Rome Italy

Entrance is free but there is often a long line to get through security. You can purchase skip the line tickets as well as tickets to climb to the top of the dome (“cupola”).

Or an insider tip is that you can purchase tickets in the gift shop across the way.

First time guide to Rome Italy

To access the dome, you can climb 320 steps or pay extra to take an elevator to the roof level. From there it is an additional 231 steps to the top of the dome.

We opted not to do this due to my claustrophobia, but the views from the top look spectacular.

The best time to visit is first thing in the morning when the crowds are smaller and the square takes on a more reverent and tranquil feel.

First time guide to Rome Italy

11. Travestere

Travestere has a reputation for being the most authentic neighborhood in Rome.

Travestere | Take this easy self-guided walking tour of Rome #rome #italy #travestere #simplywander

It’s the kind of place where you’ll find yourself getting willingly lost in the meandering streets.

Travestere | Take this easy self-guided walking tour of Rome #rome #italy #travestere #simplywander

Travestere is full of personality, with laundry hanging on lines, vines growing up the side of weathered buildings and loud laughter spilling out from bars. It is the perfect blend of subtle sophistication and a comfortable low-key vibe.

Take this easy self-guided walking tour of Rome #rome #italy #simplywander

You’ll find plenty of spots to satisfy your craving for a home-cooked Italian meal. Dar Poeta was recommended to us by friends as well as our Airbnb host.

Dar Poeta in Travestere has the most delicious and authentic Italian dishes

We ate here for our last meal in Rome. We enjoyed fire baked pizza while tucked in an alley underneath a starry sky. It was perfection.

You have to order their Ricotta and Nutella calzone. We took ours to go and it made for the perfect midnight snack.

Impiccetta is also a favorite Trastevere restaurant among locals.

My hope is that this guide will help you make the most of your time in Rome as you fall in love with the Eternal City!

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First time guide to Rome | The best walking tour to see it all #rome #italy #simplywander

About Jamie

Family travel expert and content creator who has been inpsiring millions with her travel guides since 2018.

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Reader Interactions

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April 29, 2019 at 11:04 pm

Love your pictures. It’s a very detailed post. My kids haven’t been, but we have twice. It’s a great wrap up!

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April 29, 2019 at 11:56 pm

Lucky that you’ve been twice! We fell in love and are already figuring out how we can get back there! I would love to take our kids next time too!

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April 29, 2019 at 11:17 pm

First of all – your photos are STUNNING! I literally want to book a trip to Italy right now! Saving this for the future – walking tour sounds like the perfect way to explore in Rome!!

April 29, 2019 at 11:55 pm

Thank you, Amanda! So glad it has inspired you to visit, hopefully you get a chance to go, you will love it!

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April 30, 2019 at 5:17 pm

I am so inspired to visit Rome after reading this post! So much great info and I seriously want to pin like every picture!!! Just beautiful! Thanks for sharing!

May 1, 2019 at 3:57 am

I’m so glad it has inspired you! I’m excited about your upcoming trip to Italy, you’re going to love it!

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May 1, 2019 at 9:43 am

Oh my goodness those crowds!! Love this walking round up, so going to follow it the next time we’re in Rome!

May 3, 2019 at 7:22 pm

Seriously! We planned our trip in March because we heard that was the offseason, if that is the case then I wouldn’t want to travel in the summer during peak season! It really was lovely though, and I’m so glad you found this helpful!

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May 5, 2019 at 2:25 pm

This is perfect! You’ve got me itching to go back to Rome.

May 6, 2019 at 4:45 pm

Lucky that you’ve been before! I’m already itching to go back too!

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May 7, 2019 at 5:27 pm

My goodness these pictures are amazing! I’m definitely taking the kids some day!

'  data-srcset=

April 13, 2020 at 7:54 am

Wow, incredible blog layout! How long have you been blogging for? you make blogging look easy. The overall look of your site is wonderful, as well as the content!

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Rome Self-Guided Audio Tour

Rome, Italy

rome walking tour self guided

  • Take an independent walking tour of Rome with your own mobile device for ease and convenience
  • Begin your tour whenever you'd like to coincide with the opening hours of any attractions you wish to visit
  • Enjoy the flexibility of sightseeing at your own pace while still listening to informative narration

What's Included

Departure & return, departure point, departure time, return details, what to expect, additional info.

  • Confirmation will be received at time of booking
  • Not wheelchair accessible
  • Minimum age required is 8 years
  • Advisable to wear comfortable walking shoes, hat, sunscreen, warm clothing
  • Please note this is an audio tour. No physical guide will accompany you.
  • Near public transportation
  • Travelers should have a moderate physical fitness level
  • Please download the audio file and make it ready before you start your journey
  • This tour/activity will have a maximum of 10 travelers

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My 7 Favorite Walking Tours In Rome And Why They’re Great For Solo Travelers

A nyone who has read Eat Pray Love will understand the mystique of Rome. There’s the appeal of the food, the history, the “dolce vita” lifestyle, and of course, the beauty of the people and the country. Like the author of the book, I ventured to Italy on my own but to a yoga retreat instead of an Italian language immersion. Not far from Rome in the tiny medieval town of Pitigliano, I enjoyed the camaraderie of a small group of like-minded “friends,” all eager to explore Tuscany’s small towns and venture to the thermal waters of Terme di Montecatini to slather in mud as part of the wellness experience.

This wonderful week left me refreshed and ready to travel sans a group. Spending a few days in Rome before I flew home was what I had my heart set on. I booked a room at the beautiful and centrally located Hotel Locarno and set out on my adventure. To make the most of my time and profit from the knowledge of local experts, I signed up for a range of walking tours that provided a safe, educational, and welcoming experience for solo travelers like me.

Here are my seven favorite walking tours that I took in Rome:

Walks Of Italy

1. welcome to rome twilight city & gelato tasting .

I’m a strong believer in getting the lay of the land before setting off on your own. You’ll see the “footprint” of a place, glean knowledge about its history, and profit from the experience of locals who can share their insights and answer questions. Then, you’re free to efficiently explore in more depth those places that have piqued your curiosity. This type of tour also builds confidence, especially if you’re not used to traveling by yourself. You’ll visit well-known sites like Piazza del Popolo, Piazza Navona, the Spanish Steps, the Roman Forum, and the Colosseum — all giving you good reason to return for a deeper dive on your own, at your own speed.

The tour that I took with Walks of Italy was my first introduction to Rome as a solo traveler. I picked the “Welcome to Rome: Twilight City Stroll & Gelato Tasting,” as the 6:30 p.m. start best fit with my hotel check-in time and I knew that the tour would show me some good eats as well as great sites.

There’s a magic to experiencing an ancient city like Rome in the dusk hours when there are fewer cars and fewer people in the streets. You can almost imagine what it was like during Nero’s days or during the building of the Colosseum and the Roman Forum. When darkness falls and lights come on, and fountains and buildings are illuminated with a romantic glow, you can truly bond with the city. The Trevi Fountain was enchanting at this hour, as was the Pantheon, while breaks for pizza and ice cream added to the almost spiritual feeling.

2. Pristine Sistine

No trip to Rome is complete without a visit to the Vatican, an independent state within the city. But as everyone knows, the crowds there can be overwhelming. Lines queue up for hours to enter the Vatican Museum and view sacred rooms and Leonardo da Vinci’s Sistine Chapel. If you arrive pretty much any time during the day, no matter what the weather, you’ll find that you need a huge dose of patience.

My suggestion to avoid this is to take a very-early private tour to unlock the doors. The number of entrants is limited and you’ll find you have the Sistine Chapel largely to yourself, as remarkable as that sounds. 

Led by Walks of Italy , I met my guide at an entrance marked ingresso gruppi at 7:15 a.m. for a “Pristine Sistine” small group tour. I was able to experience the Vatican in near silence before most people were even awake. A stiff espresso or two will motivate you to rise at the early hour required for this tour. But, even I, a committed night owl, found that the reward was worth it. I appreciated the one-on-one attention, the unhurried explanations of what was inside, and the quiet while in the chapel. After climbing the 551 stairs to the dome of St. Peter’s Basilica, I happily walked past the long lines that had formed during my time indoors. 

Pro Tip: There is an elevator to the rooftop of St. Peter’s Basilica that will save you 330 steps. However, you will still need to climb the rest to the top. To avoid crowds here as well, plan a separate visit and arrive at the dome before 8 a.m. 

3. VIP Colosseum Underground Tour 

The Colosseum is a must-visit when in Rome. And now that the lower level is open for tourists, there’s even more of a demand to spend time at this well-preserved Roman amphitheater.

Again, I chose a small group, early-hour tour where I had personalized attention and no crowding. All of my questions — I had many as a travel writer — were answered without hesitation. With Walks of Italy’s skip-the-lines “VIP Colosseum Underground Tour,” I was able to roam freely, photograph without pushing people out of my way, and quietly absorb the incredible feat of construction that is the Colosseum. Starting at 8 a.m., the tour met outside the Colosseum and then continued to the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill. If you’re on a tight schedule, there’s a solo Colosseum-focused tour that will get you in and out with time to make an afternoon or evening flight.

Eating Europe

4. twilight trastevere timeless traditions.

Everyone knows that Italian cuisine is fabulous. But do you really understand the nuances of its preparation? Or the history behind some of the dishes? And have you met the people who put their heart and soul into the cooking? To truly appreciate this, I scheduled a “Twilight Trastevere Timeless Traditions” walking tour with Eating Europe . 

Trastevere, a medieval neighborhood across the Tiber River, has a history as a Jewish enclave and offers a blend of tradition and experimentation. This tour offered peeks into local bar favorites, street foods, and a variety of stops for snacks and bigger bites. We stuffed ourselves with prosciutto and melon, biscotti dipped in chocolate, porchetta, and suppli (traditional rice croquettes filled with mozzarella) before indulging in a pasta amatriciana and cacio e pepe dinner at a cozy trattoria. Beverages included wine (of course) at an extensive tasting in a cellar, birra, and limoncello, with a gelato stop to end. I was thankful that we were walking!

After this delicious introduction to Trastevere, I took the advice of my guide and confidently returned the next day to explore further on my own. In the Jewish Ghetto (also known as the Ghetto of Rome), I delved into the area’s culinary heritage, feasting on carciofi alla giudia at the small trattoria Nonna Betta , recommended by Anthony Bourdain in No Reservations . I also toured the Great Synagogue and wandered through the Sant’Angelo (rione of Rome) where I discovered intriguing shops selling religious and secular knickknacks. 

Archeological Tours

5. domus aurea .

I was so enamored with the magnitude of history surrounding me that I signed up for (and highly recommend) two in-progress excavations. The Domus Aurea exploration required me to wear a hard hat and took me to an active archeological dig at the site where a huge domed residence once stood across from the Colosseum. Called the “Golden House,” Domus Aurea was built by Nero to revitalize Rome after the fire of 64 A.D. 

Pro Tip: Advance reservations (including the Raphael art exhibit) are essential as the tours are only available on weekends.

6. Le Domus Romane Di Palazzo Valentini 

The fascinating story of Le Domus Romane di Palazzo Valentini came to light because of Rome’s strict regulations regarding excavation and preservation. Whenever construction is contemplated, careful consideration of the location’s potential historical significance must be taken. And, indeed, that was the case here. While cleaning up an area designated for present-day use, the remains of ancient homes were discovered beneath Palazzo Valentini; a self-guided tour is now offered. Opposite Trajan’s Column, this underground site sheds light on the lives of several generations of inhabitants dating from the days of Emperor Hadrian.

Pro Tip: If you’re claustrophobic, the archeological tours may not be for you. Both involve being underground amid crumbling ruins and semi-darkness. Also, Domus Aurea is a bit tricky to find, so allow extra time if you go.

7. Borghese Gallery 

A look at some of the works from the country’s famous artists and sculptors is di rigore when visiting Rome. I opted for a self-guided tour of the famous Borghese Gallery where I had the opportunity to admire Bernini and Canova sculptures as well as paintings by Caravaggio and Raphael. As I was short on time and this was my last night in Rome, I reserved an evening entrance when the crowds were less intense, with a chance to also stroll through the villa gardens. Guided tours are available for those who prefer a more structured visit.

When you choose to travel solo, it helps to be somewhere where it’s considered “normal.” In Rome, I felt comfortable; comfortable enough that I could ask directions, dine by myself, and join small group tours without feeling lost in the crowd. It didn’t hurt that the shopping, dining, and overall magic of this historic city was enticing around every turn, nor that my efforts to speak Italian were appreciated.

Related Reading:

  • 5 Tips For Visiting Rome’s Iconic Trevi Fountain
  • Why This Unique Tour In Rome Was My Favorite Way To Explore The City
  • 7 Best Places To Indulge In Dolce Far Niente While Visiting Rome

This article originally appeared on TravelAwaits

Meryl Pearlstein

The Culinary Travel Guide

  • European Food Travel 101
  • United States
  • World Recipes

ROME, ITALY

A free self-guided walking tour of Rome for food lovers

Seduce the eye and romance the palate with this free walking tour of historic Rome

Tour :   espresso, city :   rome, neighborhood :   centro storico, mode :   self-guided walking tour, distance:   1.4 km, time :   about 2 hours, start :   pantheon, finish :   near the trevi fountain, when :   best time to start this morning walk is 10:00 am.

Follow this guide for a delicious walk through Rome’s historic center where you’ll enjoy some of the city’s most atmospheric sites, stopping along the way to sample fine Italian prosciutto, espresso, gelato, and more!

Save up to 30% on Hotels in Rome’s Historic Center

Buildings facades at old street

Life is a combination of magic and pasta.

~ Federico Fellini

Places You’ll Visit

Chocolate Shop

Butcher Shop

Famous Landmarks

Trevi fountain.

Aragostine Pastry

Rome Walking Tour Map

Rome is an easy city to get lost in. Street names aren’t always marked, especially at intersections where you might expect them to be.

To help you navigate, I’ve created a custom Google Map with all of the stops clearly marked.

You can access the custom map HERE . To access via mobile, click on the link while using your mobile device.

Note: You’ll need an internet connection if you choose to navigate using the custom Google Map.

Gelato, Italian ice cream counter

It’s up to you. The tour works well for one, two, or more. Almost all of the tastings can be enjoyed standing so you won’t need to worry about finding a table.

Most of the places you’ll be stopping at are quite small and, depending on the time of year, may be crowded. Expect to queue during busy times, and if you’re doing the tour as a family or group, it’s possible you may have to take turns going inside to order.

For most food stops, I’ve included suggestions of what to eat or drink, along with a price estimate. The majority are small bites that, together, add up to a very filling meal, but depending on your appetite, dietary preferences, and the size of your group, you may want to taste something different.

Most stops have something suitable for vegetarians, as well as a gluten-free choice.

Be sure to bring along some cash since not all of the businesses accept cards. If you follow the suggesting tastings, you can expect to spend about 14 € on food and drink.

You do not have to tip in restaurants in Rome. Or anywhere in Italy for that matter. (If the word servizio appears on your bill, you are already being charged extra for service.)

If you still feel compelled to tip, I get it. Old habits die hard. I just round up to the nearest euro.

On the Street

Feel free to fill your water bottle at any of the 2,500 drinking fountains scattered around the city. The water is cool, clean, refreshing, and perfectly safe to drink.

Be aware that eating and drinking are not allowed within 10 ft of any monument in the old center. (That includes the Pantheon and Trevi Fountain) Violators can be fined up to 500€.

camera icon

The tour begins at Piazza della Rotonda where you’ll find one of Rome’s best-preserved buildings – the Pantheon.

Try and picture the piazza as it looked a few hundred years ago when a busy fish market was held around the fountain. Head over to the entrance to the Pantheon and look for the holes in the portico columns. They once held poles that supported the awnings for the fish market stands.

If you haven’t already, pop inside the Pantheon and have a look around (2€ entry fee). The interior, with its magnificent dome, is Rome’s greatest architectural wonder. Walk to the center of the room, stand under the oculus, and gaze up at the sky.

rome walking tour self guided

To Sant’Eustachio Il Caffè

Click on ‘More Options’ at the top of any of the maps for turn by turn directions.

Piazza di S. Eustachio, 82, 00186 Roma

Open 7 days a week

Mon – Thurs, Sun 7:30 am – 1:00 am Late Fri until 1:30 am and Sat until 2:00 am Closed Aug 15 & Dec 25

Il Gran Caffe 2.90€ Aragostine Pastry 1.20€

Decaf is also an option

Sidewalk cafe with tourists in square in Rome a sunny summer day

For a genuine Roman coffee in a historic setting, Sant’Eustachio is hard to beat. They’ve been producing great coffee here since the 1930s and have developed something of a cult following. The reason is that they roast the beans over wood in the back of the shop, then blend them with water from an ancient Roman aqueduct. Each shot of espresso is pulled behind a metal partition so the secret to their extra-thick, luscious crema remains a mystery.

When you enter the shop, the pastry counter and register are on your right. Pay at the register, then take your pastry and your receipt over to the bar. (If it’s busy, try placing your receipt on the counter with a 50 cent tip on top. When the barista looks over and sees 2 or 3 receipts on the counter, and only one has a tip, chances are you’ll get served first.) Sugar is added to the coffee beforehand so make sure that you ask for senza zucchero (no sugar) BEFORE ordering if you don’t want any.

A caffè is a single shot of espresso, a cappuccino is a shot of espresso topped with half steamed milk and half foam, and a latte is a glass full of milk. Their signature coffee, il gran caffe, is a larger espresso that is extra rich and creamy, even though it has no milk in it.

If you sit down to eat, the price increases by 2.50€ per person, so enjoy your caffè and pastry standing up, like a local.

To angelo feroci

Via della Maddalena, 15, 00186 Roma

Open Mon, Tues, Wed and Friday 8:30 am –8:00 pm Sat 8:30 am – 1:30 pm Closed Thurs & Sun and the week of Aug 15

You won’t be tasting anything here. Instead, this stop is a visual feast that will whet your appetite for the delicious bites waiting for you up ahead.

free walking tour roma

Dating back to the 1890’s, Angelo Feroci is the most beautiful, and the most expensive, butcher shop in all of Rome.

The founder, Angelo, was recognized for his butchering skills back in the day when he received a gold medal at the international exhibition in London in 1924, as well as at the international fair of Rome.

Take a minute or two before you enter this historic temple of fine food to check out the tantalizing display of lamb chops, steaks, and meatballs in the shop window. The inside of the store is ultra-luxe with marble-on-marble countertops and benches, a mosaic floor in black and white Carrera marble, a huge black bull mounted high on the wall, and a clientele that looks like they just stepped out of an Italian fashion magazine.

A gruesome-looking pig’s head sits atop the main display counter. Don’t be afraid to get closer so you can admire the exceptional meat products below, including house specialties like plump stuffed chicken legs and strips of veal dressed with pine nuts and deep purple radicchio.

A second display counter on your left houses platters of prepared dishes and vegetables like Carciofi alla Giudia – whole artichokes with just the outer leaves and the inner hairy choke removed, then deep-fried in olive oil until crisp and golden. Deliziosissimo!

If you’re staying in an Airbnb, circle back here after the tour and pick up something amazing for dinner. While the food is definitely on the expensive side, the quality is second to none.

To Lindt Chocolate shop

Via della Maddalena, 12 00186 Roma

Open 7 days a week Mon – Thurs, Sun, 11:00 am – 11:00 pm Late Fri and Sat until midnight.

Tiramisu or Grappa Chocolate, about 3€

Chocolate Colosseum

Espresso: A Free Walking Tour of Rome for Food Lover's (Self-Guided)

Lindt opened their flagship store in Rome in 2013, and ever since, tourists and locals alike have been coming here to indulge in this Swiss chocolatier’s fine quality chocolate.

Enter the store and breathe in the intoxicating aroma. Mmmmmmmmm. Chocolate heaven. Now, look around. In the front section, you’ll see a coffee bar offering a variety of chocolate-based coffee drinks, decadent opera cakes, crepes filled with chocolate, delicious gelato, and the most amazing affogato (vanilla gelato with a shot of espresso) you’ll ever taste. Even the spoons here are dipped in chocolate.

At the back of the store, there are huge displays of chocolate bars and bins overflowing with irresistibly smooth Lindor truffles that you can mix and match. The selection is incredible and includes many flavors not available in North America. There is usually a friendly employee offering free samples, but if not, buy one or two flavors you’ve never tried before. You deserve it.

There’s also a cozy Saletta Choco-Relax downstairs where you can sit and relax. (That’s also where you’ll find the washroom.)

Tasting chocolate is a bit like tasting wine, with a recommended order of progression. If you’re tasting more than one kind, begin with the chocolate with the least percentage of cocoa. Start with white chocolate, then milk chocolate, and finally, dark chocolate. And be sure to let it melt slowly in your mouth.

Trevi Fountain, Rome

To La Prosciutteria Roma

Via della Panetteria, 34/A, 00187 Roma

Open 7 days a week 11:30 am – Midnight

Mixed tasting plate (meat, cheese, veggies, bread, and sauces), 5€

Espresso: A Free Walking Tour of Rome for Food Lover's (Self-Guided)

La Prosciutteria sells high-quality, house-made wine and salumi, served on olive-wood boards or between two slices of bread. Their philosophy is simple. Eat incredibly well while spending as little as possible.

The teeny-tiny space is dominated by a meat and cheese counter. Salumi and hind legs of prosciutto hang from the ceiling with small bowls attached underneath to catch any drips. Everything here is sliced to order.

Since La Prosciutteria is not legally a restaurant, there is no table service. Menus can be found on the walls. A self-serve cutlery and water station is located near the back of the room. There is no cover charge and no table charge, and in a city where it costs two or three euros to sit down and eat, that’s a pleasure to find.

Salumi (salted meats) are an Italian staple. While most American cold cuts are cooked, in Italy they are far more commonly cured by air-drying, salting, and smoking. The two most familiar types of salumi are salame and prosciutto. Salame is an air-dried, sometimes spicy sausage that comes in many varieties. Prosciutto is a dry-cured ham made from raw legs of pig (preferably female) that can be either dolce (sweet) or salato (salty). Purists say the best is prosciutto Di Parma. Ask the friendly staff to include a few different varieties when they put together your tasting plate. You’ll be amazed at how different each type of prosciutto tastes.

There are only a handful of tables inside so try to avoid arriving during peak hours (between noon and 1:00 pm, or 6:00 pm – 9:00 pm). If the line is long, grab a delicious porchetta panini to go instead. Eat it standing, just outside the shop. In Rome, only tourists walk around eating their food.

To Il Gelato di San Crispino

Via della Panetteria, 42, 00187 Roma

Open 7 days a week Sunday – Thursday, 11:00 am – 12:30 am Friday & Saturday, 11:0 am – 1:30 am Fall/Winter closed on Tuesdays

Try the signature San Crispino flavor (with bitter honey from Sardinia). 2.70€ for a small cup

Rome, Italy - August 18, 2016: Sidewalk cafe with tourists in square in Rome a sunny summer day

ll Gelato di San Crispino serves what many consider to be the best gelato in Rome – some say in the world.

At San Crispino, they use only top-notch, all-natural ingredients from Italy. Their zabaione gelato, for example, is made with De Bartoli Marsala that’s been aged for 20 years. Likewise, their licorice flavor is made with licorice root from Calabria, lemon with IGP lemons from the Amalfi Coast, and pistachio with pistachio nuts that come from the town of Bronte in Sicily. In a city chockablock with gelaterias, it’s high-quality regional ingredients like these, along with the absence of artificial colorings, preservatives, and chemical emulsifiers, that really set them apart.

San Crispino keeps the flavors of the day in metal tubs covered with shiny lids. Gourmet flavors like ginger-cinnamon, chocolate rum, armagnac, and fresh walnut with dried figs make it hard to pick just one. By the way, there are no cones at San Crispino. You also won’t find any sauces, toppings, or sprinkles. The emphasis here is on serving gelato in its purest form, in a paper coppetta (cup).

For Italians, gelato is much more than a sweet treat. It’s an essential part of daily life, and they are as loyal to their gelato shops as they are to their soccer teams. When it comes to choosing a flavor, locals don’t ask for samples. They pick one and commit. And if the person behind the counter asks con panna (with cream), their answer is always yes.

There’s also a branch at the Fiumicino Airport (Terminal 1) so you can get one last gelato fix before you go!

(Movie buffs might recognize Il Gelato di San Crispino from its cameo in Eat, Pray, Love.)

rome walking tour self guided

I hope you enjoy this free walking tour of Rome !

The tour details and information were accurate at the time it was written. I do check for updates periodically, but errors may still occur. Business hours, pricing, and menu items are subject to change at the shop owner’s discretion. Please email me if you come across anything that needs updating.

rome walking tour self guided

where to stay in rome

The Inn at the Spanish Steps

00185 Roma, Italy Tel. +39 06 69925657

I chose to stay at The Inn at the Spanish Steps mostly because of its location – right above the luxury shops on Via Dei Condotti and literally steps from the famous Spanish Steps. It was exactly where I wanted to be!

While not a 5-star, the service is remarkably good at this luxury boutique hotel. And it has the character and quirks (like a vintage lift) I’ve come to expect from properties associated with Small Luxury Hotels of the World. It also has a lovely rooftop terrace perfect for enjoying an aperitivo after a long day of sightseeing.

Bonus:  the oldest cafe in Rome, the Antico Caffe Greco is right next door! A latte will set you back about 9 euro but consider it the price of admission to a Roman institution.

Save up to 30% on The Inn at The Spanish Steps

Where to Stay in Rome: The Inn at the Spanish Steps

Everything you see I owe to pasta.

~ Sophia Loren

Cooking Classes in Rome

More posts about rome.

rome walking tour self guided

I am a mom of 2 who travels a lot for work (I work in the event/conference/tradeshow industry). I grew up  and currently live in Northern California.

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  4. 19 Self-Guided Walking Tours in Rome, Italy + Create Your Own Walk

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  1. Self-Guided Rome Walking Tours

    This 15-stop, self-guided tour will lead you through some of Rome's main attractions, from the Spanish Steps through Trevi Fountain to Campo de' Fiori, with lots of sights along the way covering more than two thousand years of history. It's best to set aside 2-3 hours for walking this route. You'll be seeing plenty of both tourists and ...

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    6. The Aventine Hill. View from the Giardino degli Aranci. One of Rome's seven hills, the Aventine is another excellent route for a self-guided walk. The old church of Basilica di Santa Sabina, as well as its lovely gardens and panoramic vistas of Rome, are well worth a visit. Take a look at the suggested route below.

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    The final stop on day 1 of this Rome self-guided walking tour is a taste of what is to come tomorrow morning: ancient Roman ruins. Largo di Torre Argentina is a square containing the ruins of four Roman temples and Pompey's Theatre. Julius Caesar was assassinated in a meeting space near the theatre. There is access to get into the ruins ...

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    Walking Map of Rome. The following Rome sightseeing map will lead you on an adventure across 1 day in Rome. It covers about 12 kilometres in total and winds through the city's historic streets, via all those iconic attractions you don't want to miss. To make the most of the free Rome walking tour, it's designed to allow enough time to ...

  10. Rome Bucket List: A Self-Guided Walking Tour of Rome

    Exploring Rome on foot is the best way to see everything this amazing city has to offer! Between stunning monuments, artistic fountains, iconic landmarks, and of course, beautiful architecture, there is so much to see in the Eternal City. Follow our self-guided walking tour of Rome to see all of the popular sights. Whether you

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    1. Campo de' Fiori. The first stop on our walking tour of Rome is Campo de' Fiori, which transforms from a bustling market in the morning and early afternoon to a night-time hotspot. The market sprawls across the center of the square, which is ringed by bars, hence the daily conversion from delicacies to debauchery.

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    Home » Tours » Walking tours » Self-guided walking tour around the ancient city. This free self-guided walk takes you from the site of Caesar's death to Rome's own pyramid, taking in the original Jewish Ghetto and the most beautiful view of the most beautiful city on earth. Distance: 2.5 miles (3.75 km)

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    Go on a tantalizing Food Walk in Historic Rome or enhance your visit with a tour of the sites featured in "Roman Holiday", the classic film starring Audrey Hepburn and Gregory Peck. In all, we have prepared 20 self-guided walks for you to explore Rome, which cover everything from charming neighborhoods to famous fountains and squares, shopping ...

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    Embark on a self guided tour of the Ancient Rome. Starting from Largo di Torre Argentina, the area where Julius Caesar was murdered, reach Piazza Venezia and the impressive Altar of the Fatherland! Climb up the stairs to reach the church of Santa Maria in Aracoeli and Piazza del Campidoglio. Stun at the ruins of the Roman Forum from Via del ...

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    For this self-guided walking tour of Rome in particular, it's not recommended to attempt it in 35°C / 95°F weather. Travellers who are eager to attend at least one attraction should also know that tickets are sold out for 2-3 weeks ahead of time in the summer. Get Up Early.

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    The Best Self-Guided Walking Tour of Rome: Here is a link to the full map. 1. The Colosseum. We'll start the walking tour at the Colosseum. This is one of the most recognizable landmarks and one of the most visited tourist attractions in the world.

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    Explore the history and culture of modern and ancient Rome with our engaging, historical and high quality podcast tours. Either in-person or from the comfort of your own home - this is a great way to explore various sites and neighbourhoods across Italy's capital including a trip to the Colosseum, Roman Forums, Palatine Hill, the Pantheon and the beautiful district of Testaccio.

  22. Rome Self-Guided Audio Tour » VisitRome.com

    Explore Rome at your own pace with a self-guided audio tour. Using your own smartphone or mp3 player, you'll follow a downloaded tour to check out historical sights such as the Colosseum, Trevi Fountain, and the Vatican City area. As you go, listen to commentary to learn about Rome's ancient landmarks. Take an independent walking tour of Rome ...

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