Introduction

Thinking about visiting Rome for the first time? You’ve found the perfect guide! This 3-day plan is made just for newbies like you, to show you all the cool stuff in Rome.

Rome is a super cool city that makes everyone want to explore. It’s got amazing art, super old history, tasty food, and really nice parks. It’s a great place for everyone – whether you’re with your family, your friends, or just by yourself. There’s a ton to love about Rome!

You might think you can see all the big stuff in Rome in a short period of time, but if it’s your first time, you should really stay longer. Spending 3 days in Rome lets you really get into what the city is about and find some cool spots that not everyone knows about.

This 3-day plan for Rome also helps you figure out how long to spend at each place, so you can see as much as possible. Let’s dive in!

No time to read it now? Pin it for later!

*Disclosure: This post contains a few affiliate links, which means I may receive a small commission, at no cost to you, if you make a purchase through my link.*

Useful Resources Going Abroad

Overview of Your Rome 3 Day Itinerary

Day 1: The Colosseum, The Roman Forum, Palatine Hill, The Pantheon, Piazza Navona, Trevi Fountain, Spanish Steps.

Day 2: Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel, St. Peter’s Basilica, Trastevere, Wandering Trastevere’s Streets, Tiber Island, Campo de’ Fiori, A Panoramic View from Gianicolo Hill.

Day 3: Breakfast in a Café Near the Borghese Gardens, Borghese Gardens, Borghese Gallery, A Quick Lunch, Aventine Hill, The Mouth of Truth, Piazza del Popolo, A Leisurely Walk Along the Tiber River, Gelato Goodbye.

Useful Information for Your Rome Adventure

Embarking on a Rome 3 day itinerary is an exciting adventure filled with history, art, and culture. To make the most of your trip, here’s some useful information to keep in mind.

How to Get to Rome

Rome is well-connected to the rest of the world through two main airports: Leonardo da Vinci Airport (Fiumicino) and Ciampino Airport. Fiumicino is the main international airport, located about 30 minutes from the city center by train. Ciampino is closer to the city and mainly serves budget airlines and domestic flights. You can check your flights using this link.

If you’re traveling from within Europe, taking a train to Rome is another great option. Rome’s main railway station, Termini, is a hub for national and international trains, making it a convenient entry point to the city.

Best Time to Visit Rome

Rome is beautiful year-round, but the best times to visit are during the spring (April to June) and fall (September to October). During these months, the weather is pleasant, and there are fewer tourists compared to the busy summer season. July and August can be very hot and crowded, while winter is cooler and quieter, though some sites may have shorter visiting hours.

How to Get Around in Rome

Rome’s historic center is best explored on foot, as many of the streets are narrow and filled with surprises around every corner. For longer distances, Rome has an efficient public transportation system, including buses, trams, and a metro. A single ticket can be used across all modes of transportation within the city and is valid for 100 minutes after validation.

Rome also offers 24-hour, 48-hour, and 72-hour travel cards, which can be a good deal if you plan to use public transportation frequently.

Where to Stay in Rome

Rome offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit every budget and preference. Here are three areas to consider:

1. Near the Colosseum (Day 1 Exploration): Hotel Capo d’Africa – Situated just a few minutes’ walk from the Colosseum, this chic hotel is perfect for those wanting to start their exploration of ancient Rome right at their doorstep. The hotel boasts a beautiful terrace with views of the Colosseum, offering a unique spot to unwind after a day of sightseeing.

In Vatican City vicinity (Day 2 Exploration): Hotel Vaticano – Located directly opposite the Vatican Museums, Hotel Alimandi Vaticano provides easy access to Vatican City’s spiritual and artistic treasures. This family-run hotel combines comfort with convenience, making it an ideal base for those wishing to explore the Vatican and surrounding areas.

Near the Borghese Gardens (Day 3 Exploration): Relais Donna Lucrezia – Just a short walk from the Borghese Gardens and Gallery, Relais Donna Lucrezia offers a peaceful retreat in the heart of Rome. With its elegant rooms and a private garden, guests can enjoy a serene atmosphere while being close to one of Rome’s most beautiful public parks.

Each of these hotels offers a unique experience aligned with the locations and activities featured in the Rome 3 day itinerary, ensuring a comfortable and convenient stay in the Eternal City.

No matter where you choose to stay, Rome is a city that welcomes all with open arms, offering endless adventures and timeless memories. Whether you’re marveling at ancient ruins, enjoying a gelato by the Pantheon, or taking in the panoramic views from Gianicolo Hill, Rome is sure to capture your heart.

Day 1 of Your Rome 3 Day Itinerary

The Colosseum

Our first adventure takes us to the Colosseum, a massive structure that’s like the ancient version of a stadium, but way cooler. Picture this: you’re standing where thousands of people, over 2,000 years ago, would gather to watch gladiators (kind of like the superheroes of their time) battle it out.

These weren’t just any fights; they were epic showdowns that everyone in Rome would talk about. The Colosseum could hold up to 80,000 spectators – that’s like filling up a whole modern-day sports stadium!

When you walk into the Colosseum, try to imagine the roar of the crowd and the intensity of the gladiators fighting for glory. It’s not just a bunch of old stones; it’s a place where history comes to life. And remember, getting there early lets you beat the crowds and feel the magic without a zillion people around.

Different tours are available depending on what you’re interested in!

Priority Access Colosseum, Roman Forum & Palatine Tour: The best ticket if you want to skip the queue to get into Colosseum. There can be very, very long lines to get in so getting this ticket is a good choice. A normal ticket doesn’t let you skip the queue even if you bought it before getting there.

Colosseum: Underground and Ancient Rome Tour: Embark on a guided tour of the Colosseum with skip-the-line tickets and access to the arena, underground, second tier, and more. Experience Roman history and walk in the footsteps of gladiators.

Colosseum by Night with Underground and Arena Floor Tour: Enjoy a unique opportunity to experience the Colosseum’s Underground and Arena Floor by night. Get to the heart of one of the most iconic Roman sites with a tour away from the crowds of the daytime. Perfect if you hate crowds and lines.

The Roman Forum

Just a hop, skip, and a jump from the Colosseum is the Roman Forum. Think of it as the heart of ancient Rome, where all the action happened. This place was the downtown of the Roman Empire, where people would shop, do business, gossip, and even watch some public speeches and performances. Walking through the Forum is like walking through the busiest streets of ancient Rome, except now it’s peaceful and quiet.

You’ll see ruins of important buildings, temples, and shops. Each ruin has its own story, like the Temple of Julius Caesar, where people still leave flowers for the famous leader. It’s a special spot that makes history feel super close, like you could reach out and touch it.

Palatine Hill

After the Forum, it’s a short walk to Palatine Hill, one of Rome’s seven hills. This place is super important because it’s where Rome was founded. It has some of the oldest parts of the city. Imagine two brothers, Romulus and Remus, who were said to be raised by a wolf and then went on to found Rome right here.

From Palatine Hill, you get an amazing view of the whole city, including the Forum and the Colosseum. It’s the best spot for pictures, so make sure your phone or camera is ready. Walking around here, you’ll see ancient palaces and gardens. It’s like stepping into the private backyards of the emperors and important people from thousands of years ago.

Pro Tip: Buying a combo ticket for all three spots not only saves money but also lets you skip the long lines. This way, you have more time to explore and imagine yourself as part of ancient Rome’s bustling life.

After a morning spent wandering through the echoes of ancient Rome, it’s time to dive into the afternoon adventures of our Rome 3 day itinerary. Get ready, because we’re about to explore some of the most colorful and vibrant parts of Rome!

The Pantheon

After grabbing a quick bite (maybe a slice of pizza or a gelato?), our first stop of the afternoon is the Pantheon. This ancient temple turned church is a real-life puzzle of history and architecture. The Pantheon is famous for its giant dome, which is still the world’s largest unreinforced concrete dome. That’s like holding up 30 elephants with no support beams!

When you step inside, look up and you’ll see a huge hole at the top called the oculus. It’s the dome’s only source of light, creating a spotlight effect on the marble floor that moves around the room as the day goes by. The Pantheon is also the final resting place for some famous Italians, including the artist Raphael.

The cool thing about the Pantheon? It’s almost perfectly preserved, making it feel like you’ve time-traveled back to when it was first built. And the best part? It’s free to enter!

Of course there is also a skip-the-line ticket to Pantheon if you still hate standing in line.

Piazza Navona

Just a short walk from the Pantheon, Piazza Navona is one of Rome’s liveliest squares, built on the site of an ancient stadium. Today, instead of chariot races, it’s filled with artists, street performers, and cute cafes. The square is home to three stunning fountains, but the star is the Fountain of the Four Rivers, designed by the famous artist Bernini. This fountain represents four rivers from different continents, and the details are mind-blowing.

Piazza Navona is the perfect place to soak up the Roman atmosphere. Grab a gelato, find a spot by the fountain, and watch the world go by. It’s a great place to people-watch and enjoy the buzz of the city.

As you wander around, don’t forget to look at the buildings surrounding the square. They’re painted in warm, earthy tones and have so many stories hidden in their walls. Imagine the people who’ve walked these streets over the centuries, each adding their layer to Rome’s rich tapestry.

Pro Tip: Piazza Navona is surrounded by narrow streets filled with shops selling all sorts of treasures. It’s the perfect place to pick up souvenirs, like hand-painted ceramics or Italian leather goods.

As the afternoon fades into evening, our Rome 3 day itinerary takes us into the magical nighttime scene of the Eternal City. Rome at night transforms into a wonderland of illuminated history and vibrant street life, offering a completely different experience from the daytime.

Trevi Fountain

No visit to Rome is complete without seeing the Trevi Fountain, especially as the sun sets and the lights come on, making the water sparkle under the night sky. This isn’t just any fountain; it’s a masterpiece of baroque art, featuring statues of Neptune, god of the sea, surrounded by tritons and seahorses. The fountain’s water comes from one of the oldest aqueducts in Rome, and it’s said to be super clean – but remember, no swimming allowed!

Legend has it, if you throw a coin over your shoulder into the fountain, you’re guaranteed to return to Rome. Make sure to bring a small coin and make your wish; who knows, it might just come true. The Trevi Fountain at night is a sight to remember, with its glowing lights and the sound of rushing water – it feels like being in a movie.

Spanish Steps

A short walk from the Trevi Fountain are the Spanish Steps, another iconic spot that comes alive in the evening. These steps are a popular meeting place and offer a fantastic view of the city from the top. The steps lead up to the Trinità dei Monti church, which is beautifully lit up at night.

The area around the Spanish Steps is full of life, with lots of shops, restaurants, and gelaterias open late. It’s the perfect place to grab dinner or a snack and enjoy the bustling atmosphere. The steps themselves are a great spot to sit, relax, and soak up the beauty of Rome at night. They’re often decorated with flowers, making them even more picturesque.

Pro Tip: The Spanish Steps can get crowded, so watch your belongings and be mindful of pickpockets. But don’t let that stop you from enjoying the lively scene and the beautiful views.

As our first day in Rome comes to a close, we’ve walked through history, marveled at architectural wonders, and experienced the vibrant culture of this ancient city. Rome at night is a special experience, offering a different perspective on the city’s landmarks.

Day 2 of Your Rome 3 Day Itinerary

As the sun rises on the second day of our Rome 3 day itinerary, get ready to dive into more of what this incredible city has to offer. Today, we’re exploring the spiritual heart of Rome and stepping into some of the most revered places in the world.

Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel

Start your morning early by heading to Vatican City, the smallest independent state in the world, located right in the heart of Rome. Here, you’ll find a treasure trove of art and history in the Vatican Museums. With miles of galleries filled with masterpieces collected by the popes over centuries, it’s like walking through the pages of an art history book. From ancient sculptures to Renaissance paintings, every corner you turn brings something new and astonishing.

The highlight for most visitors is the Sistine Chapel, famous for Michelangelo’s breathtaking ceiling and The Last Judgment. Looking up at the ceiling, you’ll see the famous scene of the Creation of Adam, where God and Adam’s fingers almost touch. It’s a powerful moment that makes you feel connected to something greater.

Pro Tip: The lines for the Vatican Museums can be long, so it’s a good idea to book a skip-the-line ticket or join a guided tour. Also, remember to dress modestly, as the Vatican has strict dress codes, especially for entering the Sistine Chapel.

St. Peter’s Basilica

After the museums, make your way to St. Peter’s Basilica, the largest church in the world and a true architectural masterpiece. The first thing you’ll see when you enter is the stunning Pieta by Michelangelo, a sculpture showing Mary holding Jesus after the crucifixion. It’s incredibly detailed and moving.

Don’t miss the chance to climb up to the dome of St. Peter’s Basilica. It’s a bit of a workout, but the view from the top is worth every step. You’ll get a panoramic view of Vatican City and Rome that’s simply unforgettable.

Pro Tip: Climbing to the top of the dome has a small fee, but visiting the basilica itself is free. However, like the Sistine Chapel, St. Peter’s Basilica requires modest clothing, so be prepared.

Spending your morning in Vatican City gives you a glimpse into the heart of Catholicism and some of the most magnificent art and architecture in the world. It’s a solemn and awe-inspiring start to Day 2 of our Rome 3 day itinerary.

Trastevere

As we say goodbye to Vatican City, we’ll cross the Tiber River and enter a whole new world: Trastevere. This neighborhood feels like a small town hidden in the heart of the city, with its narrow cobblestone streets, ivy-covered buildings, and lively squares. It’s the perfect place to grab lunch, with countless restaurants and cafes offering everything from classic Roman dishes to scrumptious street food.

Try a slice of pizza al taglio (pizza by the slice) or sit down for a plate of pasta carbonara, a Roman specialty. And don’t forget to treat yourself to a gelato!

Pro Tip: Look for places packed with locals; they know where the best food is! We also went on a local food tour in Trastavere, well worth the money! And after 750 reviews they are still rocking a 4.9/5 so we weren’t the only ones thinking so.

Wandering Trastevere’s Streets

After lunch, take your time wandering through Trastevere. This is the best way to discover the hidden gems of Rome. You’ll stumble upon quaint shops selling handmade goods, beautiful churches tucked away in quiet corners, and vibrant street art that adds a modern twist to this ancient neighborhood.

One must-visit spot is the Basilica of Santa Maria in Trastevere, one of the oldest churches in Rome. The mosaics inside are stunning, especially when they catch the afternoon light.

As you walk around, you’ll notice the atmosphere in Trastevere is different from the rest of Rome. It’s more relaxed and artsy, making it a favorite among students, artists, and anyone who loves to soak up local culture.

Pro Tip: Trastevere is also known for its artisan gelato shops. Keep an eye out for unique flavors like ricotta, fig, or even rose!

Tiber Island

As the afternoon winds down, make your way to Tiber Island, just a short walk from Trastevere. This tiny island has been important to Romans for thousands of years, serving as a place of healing (it’s home to one of the oldest hospitals in Europe) and a peaceful escape from city life.

Crossing one of the bridges to the island feels like stepping into a storybook, with its picturesque views of the river and the city. It’s a great spot for a peaceful break, and there’s even a gelato shop on the island if you’re ready for round two!

Exploring Trastevere and Tiber Island offers a delightful contrast to the morning’s grandeur, highlighting the everyday charm and beauty of Rome. It’s a reminder that Rome isn’t just about ancient ruins and monumental churches; it’s also about the little moments and simple pleasures.

After a charming afternoon in Trastevere and a peaceful visit to Tiber Island, it’s time to experience Rome as it sparkles under the stars. The evening promises a mix of delicious food, stunning views, and a taste of Rome’s vibrant night life.

Campo de’ Fiori

Our evening begins at Campo de’ Fiori, a lively square known for its morning market. But as the sun sets, the market stalls pack up, and the square transforms into a bustling hub of activity. Surrounded by old buildings, this spot is filled with people enjoying the cooler evening air, dining at outdoor tables, and soaking up the lively atmosphere.

Campo de’ Fiori is the perfect place to enjoy dinner. You’ll find restaurants serving up delicious Roman specialties like spaghetti alla carbonara or cacio e pepe (pasta with cheese and pepper). It’s a fun, vibrant place to eat and watch the world go by.

Pro Tip: If you’re not super hungry yet, grab a slice of pizza from one of the nearby bakeries. They make it Roman-style, thin and crispy, and totally irresistible.

A Panoramic View from Gianicolo Hill

After dinner, we’ll take a leisurely walk to Gianicolo Hill, just west of Trastevere. This hill offers one of the best panoramic views of Rome, especially beautiful in the evening light. The climb up might make you huff and puff a little, but the breathtaking vista from the top is more than worth it. You can see the entire city spread out before you, with famous landmarks like St. Peter’s Basilica lit up against the night sky.

Gianicolo Hill is also a favorite spot among locals for a passeggiata, an evening stroll. There’s often a gelato cart nearby, so you can enjoy a sweet treat while taking in the view. It’s a peaceful way to end the day, surrounded by beauty and history.

Pro Tip: Bring a light jacket, as it can get a bit cooler in the evening, especially after the sun goes down.

Spending your evening between the lively atmosphere of Campo de’ Fiori and the serene views from Gianicolo Hill shows the wonderful contrast of Rome’s vibrant city life and its tranquil spots. It’s a perfect blend that makes Rome such a unique and unforgettable city.

Day 3 of Your Rome 3 Day Itinerary

Welcome to Day 3 of our Rome 3 day itinerary! Today, we’re going to explore some of the most picturesque spots in Rome, blending the old with the new and everything in between. Let’s dive into our final day of adventure.

Breakfast in a Café Near the Borghese Gardens

Start your day like a true Roman by grabbing breakfast at a café near the Borghese Gardens. Enjoy a cappuccino and a cornetto (Italian croissant) to fuel up for the morning ahead. It’s a sweet and simple pleasure that sets the tone for the day.

Borghese Gardens

After breakfast, head to the Borghese Gardens, Rome’s third largest public park. This isn’t just any park; it’s more like an outdoor museum with landscaped gardens, statues, fountains, and even a lake where you can rent rowboats. It’s a beautiful place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and immerse yourself in nature and art.

The Borghese Gardens are huge, so you can explore at your own pace. Don’t miss the Temple of Asclepius, located by the lake—it’s a picturesque spot perfect for photos. And if you’re into animals, you might spot some turtles sunbathing by the water!

Pro Tip: Renting a bike or a mini electric car can be a fun and quick way to see more of the gardens. There are rental stations within the park.

Borghese Gallery

Within the Borghese Gardens is the Borghese Gallery, one of Rome’s most impressive art galleries. This gallery houses a collection of sculptures, paintings, and antiques that belonged to the Borghese family, including works by Caravaggio, Bernini, and Raphael.

The gallery’s highlight is Bernini’s sculptures, which are so lifelike you’ll have to remind yourself they’re made of marble. You’ll be amazed by the detail and emotion he captured in stone.

Pro Tip: Tickets for the Borghese Gallery need to be booked in advance because they limit the number of visitors to keep the gallery from getting too crowded. It’s totally worth planning ahead!

Spending your morning in the Borghese Gardens and Gallery offers a peaceful yet enriching experience, combining the beauty of nature with the genius of art. It’s a gentle start to our last day in Rome, filled with moments of wonder.

A Quick Lunch

Before we dive into more exploration, let’s grab a quick lunch. Head towards the Aventine Hill area, where you can find cozy trattorias serving up delicious Roman pizza with a thin, crispy crust or a classic pasta dish like amatriciana or arrabbiata. Enjoying a meal in a less touristy neighborhood gives you a taste of local life in Rome.

Aventine Hill

Aventine Hill is one of Rome’s seven famous hills, offering not only beautiful gardens and ancient churches but also one of the city’s best-kept secrets. After lunch, take a leisurely walk up the hill. Your first stop is the Knights of Malta Keyhole, where you can peek through an ornate keyhole to see a perfectly framed view of St. Peter’s Basilica in the distance. It’s a unique and magical sight that feels like discovering a secret part of Rome.

Then, explore the Orange Garden (Giardino degli Aranci), known for its serene atmosphere and stunning views over the city. It’s a great spot for a peaceful break and to soak in the panoramic vistas.

The Mouth of Truth

From Aventine Hill, make your way down to the Church of Santa Maria in Cosmedin to see the Mouth of Truth (Bocca della Verità). This large marble mask, which legend says will bite off the hand of a liar who places their hand in its mouth, is a fun stop for a memorable photo. The Mouth of Truth gained fame from the classic movie “Roman Holiday,” and visiting it is like stepping into a piece of cinematic history.

Pro Tip: There’s usually a line to take a photo with the Mouth of Truth, so be prepared for a bit of a wait. It’s worth it for the fun photo op!

Exploring Aventine Hill and the Mouth of Truth gives you a taste of Rome’s quieter, more mystical side, away from the crowds. It’s a lovely contrast to the grandeur of the city’s more famous sites and shows the diverse layers of Rome’s history and culture.

As the sun begins to set on our final day in Rome, we’re gearing up for an evening that celebrates the beauty and spirit of the Eternal City. It’s time to end our Rome 3 day itinerary with memories that will last a lifetime.

Piazza del Popolo

Our evening starts at Piazza del Popolo, a spacious square that has been a meeting place for Romans for centuries. Surrounded by churches, fountains, and a grand Egyptian obelisk at its center, Piazza del Popolo is steeped in history and beauty. As evening falls, the square is bathed in a warm glow, making it feel even more magical.

Take a moment to visit the Santa Maria del Popolo Church, located at the square’s edge. Inside, you’ll find works by famous artists like Caravaggio, making it a hidden gem for art lovers.

A Leisurely Walk Along the Tiber River

From Piazza del Popolo, take a leisurely walk along the Tiber River. In the evening, the river and its surroundings take on a romantic atmosphere, with the lights reflecting off the water and the sounds of the city winding down. Along the way, you’ll pass by historic bridges and buildings, each with their own story.

This walk is a chance to reflect on all the amazing sights and experiences of the past three days. Rome’s blend of ancient history, art, culture, and modern life is truly unique, and walking along the Tiber is a beautiful way to soak it all in one last time.

Gelato Goodbye

What better way to say goodbye to Rome than with one final gelato? As your walk along the Tiber comes to an end, stop at one of Rome’s many gelaterias for a scoop (or two!) of your favorite flavor. It’s a sweet end to an incredible journey through one of the world’s most captivating cities.

Pro Tip: Try flavors you can only find in Italy, like stracciatella (chocolate chip) or nocciola (hazelnut). It’s a delicious way to make your last night in Rome even more memorable.

As we conclude our Rome 3 day itinerary, it’s hard not to feel a bit sad that our adventure is over. But remember, as the saying goes, “All roads lead to Rome.” This may be the end of our journey for now, but there’s always more to discover and explore in this eternal city. Until next time, Rome will be waiting to welcome you back with open arms and new adventures.

Planning a trip to Italy?

Feel free to check out this Ultimate 3-Day Cinque Terre Itinerary. I promise it’s just as good as this post and a must-visit if you’re planning a trip to Italy.