Timeline
17:28
Grab a quick pasta or pizza at Pastasciutta. It is cheap, fast, and large portions keep you going. Check the hours: open until 18:30 on weekdays or 18:00 on Sundays. With a 18:28 sunset, you have just enough time before it closes on a weekday, or you might need to move this step earlier on a Sunday.
17:58
Walk up to the Pincio. This hill offers a classic, open view of the city. It is a good place to stretch your legs and wait for the light to change. The walk from the Vatican area is about 36 minutes, so start heading up now if you haven't already.
18:28
Chiesa di Sant'Onofrio al Gianicolo
Stand before the Chiesa di Sant'Onofrio al Gianicolo as the sun dips below the horizon. The church sits on the Janiculum Hill, one of the highest points in Rome, offering a clear western view. The golden light from the previous hour will fade into the blue twilight here.
18:58
End the evening with a drink at Ma Che Siete Venuti A Fà. This pub is open late, until 02:00, giving you plenty of time to relax after the walk. It is a 15-minute walk from the landmark area, making it a convenient spot to wrap up the night.
Local tip
The sun sets toward the W on October 15. Make sure your viewing spot at the Gianicolo faces west for the best view. The walk from the Vatican to the Gianicolo is steep, so take it slow if you are stopping for food first.
Check before you go
- Pastasciutta closes at 18:30 on weekdays and 18:00 on Sundays. Since sunset is at 18:28, you must eat before 18:00 on Sundays or rush to finish by 18:30 on weekdays.
- Ma Che Siete Venuti A Fà is open until 02:00, so no need to worry about closing time for the final stop.
Built from places in the Wikivoyage guide to Rome/Vatican (CC BY-SA 4.0), with open map data from OpenStreetMap contributors (ODbL).