Are you trying to fit in all of the sights and sounds that Rome has to offer in just three days? Then look no further! This ultimate travel guide is designed to help you plan the perfect 3-day itinerary for a memorable stay in Italy’s capital.
From ancient ruins, incredible cuisine, vibrant shopping scenes, and more – this comprehensive guide will provide tips on how to make the most out of your time. Let’s get started.
All roads lead to Rome in this perfect 3-day itinerary. Take a spin in the “Eternal City” and marvel at spectacular architecture and art, dive into delightful gastronomy, and end it all with the many time capsules that bring life to the old Rome that once was.
3-Day Rome Itinerary – Overview
- Visit the Colosseum
- Explore the Roman Forum
- Head to Trevi for Lunch
- Throw a Coin in the Trevi Fountain
- Wander Around Piazza Navona
- Enter the Pantheon
- Have Dinner Around the Spanish Steps
- Day 2: Vatican City
- Take a Photo at Saint Peter’s Square
- Start with Sistine Chapel
- Visit St. Peter’s Basilica
- Have Lunch in the Borgo District
- Spend the Afternoon at Borghese Gallery and Museum
- See the Sunset from Orange Garden (Giardino degli Aranci)
- Day 3: Take a Day Trip from Rome
- Option One – Pompeii and Mt. Vesuvius Volcano
- Option Two – Pompeii and Amalfi Coast
- Option Three – Tuscany Day Trip with Wine Tasting
Day 1: Ancient Rome
Visit the Colosseum
The Coliseum is a part of the New Seven Wonders of the World and it’s easy to see why.
Built in 80 AD, this enormous amphitheater is said to have housed over 50,000 people during its heyday. Today, it stands as a reminder of Rome’s rich history, as well as being an incredible piece of architecture. Famed for being a mega entertainment arena in its heyday, you will definitely need to carve out a decent amount of time to explore.
Spend some time taking in the sights of this glorious piece of antiquity, including walking around the outer rim so you remember its size and scale.
There are numerous steps to climb and I recommend wearing comfortable shoes and using sunscreen to protect yourself.
Also, it’s best to visit the Colosseum early, especially during the weekend to beat the crowds. The Colosseum opens at 8:30 am and booking your tickets in advance will save you a lot of time.
A word of caution – large bags and suitcases are not allowed inside, and there’s a metal detector at the entrance.
Explore the Roman Forum
Explore the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill after touring the Colosseum. If you are on a guided tour, tickets from the Colosseum will include visits to both the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill, which is another reason to book a tour ahead of time.
As one of the most important and impressive sites in Rome, the Roman Forum allows you to see what the areas looked like 3,000 years ago.
Take some time to explore this amazing ancient site and learn about its significant role in Ancient Roman history as you wander among its ruins.
While you can explore it by yourself, going on a guided tour is a totally different and better experience.
The three main areas to discover are the Regia, where early kings used to reside, the Temple of Vesta which has remained the most complete structure, and Temple of Julius Caesar which honors the great leader.
Stop to see the Temple in dedication to Faustina, the site of the original Senate, and where Caesar’s body was brought following his assassination.
Be sure to climb atop Palatine Hill for sweeping views into the Forum below and stunning scenery all around. More about this is below.
See Palatine Hill
The Palatine Hill is one of the city’s most picturesque areas, hosting the Roman Forum. Take the time to explore this ancient relic and take in the sights. You can enjoy breathtaking views of the Colosseum, San Pietro in Vincoli and much more.
Palatine Hill is rich with history, so stroll along its landscaped gardens and ruins of a past that dates back to 750 BC. The area around it was once home to Ancient Rome’s most powerful citizens and has also been said to be where Romulus founded the city in 753 BC.
From here you will be able to view the city villa of Livia (the wife of Caesar Augustus), tunnels used by palace servants, and the Palatine Museum.
Don’t rush through – Explore its artifacts, stories, and culture for an intimate picture of Italy’s historic past.
All in all, Palatine Hill is one sight you can’t miss when in Rome.
Head to Trevi for Lunch
Head to Trevi for lunch and beat the Italian heat with simple but decadent food. If you are a Pizza lover, delightful restaurants such as Piccolo Buco are a great choice.
If you prefer smaller meals, spend time trying all manner of finger foods at Pane e Salame. The name of this restaurant means “Bread and Meats.” They serve alcohol, cured meats, cheeses, vegetables, spreads, and bread as a soul soother.
What is Italy without pasta? Head to Piccolo Arancio famed for its Lobster Pasta. The dish is called linguine all’astice and is perfect in this unassuming restaurant.
Or, if you like fine dining, what about an eatery with 100 years of service that feels classy and top-notch? Trattoria Al Moro opens slightly later than the other restaurants, but it is still worth visiting.
Make reservations wherever it is you will eat. If you want to tip, you are welcome to, but it’s not a big deal here.
Throw a Coin in the Trevi Fountain
After you have recharged your batteries, why not throw a coin in the Trevi Fountain?
The Fontana di Trevi is Rome’s largest fountain. Standing at 85 feet; it truly is a masterpiece. Legend has it that those who throw coins into the fountain are guaranteed a return visit to Rome.
The modern twist of the legend says the first toss gives you a return trip to Rome, a second toss will get you love, and a third toss marriage! Superstitious or not, seeing the fountain in its glory will feel like luck itself!
Lastly, the Trevi Fountain is one of the best photo spots in Rome, so make sure to stop and take some to share with your loved ones!
Wander Around Piazza Navona
Wander around Piazza Navona and relax as you see the charm of the popular Baroque-style public square.
It is one of the most picturesque places in the Eternal City and makes for perfect exploring! During your wander around, keep an eye out for interesting art pieces such as the Fontana dei Quattro Fiumi – the life-size boat filled with statues sculpted by Bernini.
Make sure to take photos near the iconic obelisk before stopping in at some local shops and cafes too.
Apart from that, enjoy the spectacle of street performances from musicians, magicians, dancers, and more! Can a trip to Rome get any better?
Enter the Pantheon
The Pantheon is another must-see while you spend 3 days in Rome. This remarkable temple was first built in 27 BC and has served many purposes throughout its long history.
It’s well worth a visit, not only for its incredible architecture, but also for the open space it provides in the center of crowded Rome.
Inside, admire the impressive Corinthian columns and domed ceiling which are included among the UNESCO World heritage sites of Italy. Be sure to check out the stunning portico as you come up to the entrance.
The Pantheon was completed around 126-128 AD. Traditionally thought to have been designed as a temple for Roman gods, it became the first Roman pagan temple to be consecrated as a Catholic church.
Today, the Pantheon is a major tourist destination, yet it continues to function as a church with a regular mass held there every Sunday at 10.30 AM.
Have Dinner Around the Spanish Steps
What better way to end your first day in Rome than having dinner around the world-famous Spanish Steps? Located near the bottom of beautiful Piazza di Spagna, one of the most iconic corners of Rome, you can enjoy a perfect evening full of romantic atmosphere.
This is a great way to take in local vibes before heading off for an evening stroll on the pedestrianized Via dei Condotti, where you’ll find top designer shops as well as some old-style gelato stores.
Find yourself a cozy restaurant to wind up your evening in a relaxing atmosphere. Once you’re done with dinner, enjoy the views that include the Fountain of the Old Boat “Fontana Della Barcaccia.”
Day 2: Vatican Museums
Start at Saint Peter’s Square
On the second day of your Roman itinerary, start off your day at Saint Peter’s Square in Vatican City. The piazza is massive in size, featuring an elliptical shape and two rows of Doric columns that create a sense of grandeur and scale.
Make sure to take a moment to appreciate the aesthetic beauty before you make eye contact with St. Peter’s Basilica, located directly across the square.
Located at the center of Rome, you can’t miss the Vatican, not only for sightseeing but also taking a glimpse into Roman history.
The marvel of geometry and architecture that has come to be known as “the Holy See”. Come down early (with pre-booked tickets for the Chapel and Basilica) to beat the long queues of tourists.
See the Pontifical Swiss Guard, the massive obelisk, the 148 statues of different saints, and fountains, and attend a papal mass in the Basilica by getting your ticket from the Swiss Guard for free.
I recommend booking your accommodation in Prati, which is the best area where to stay in Rome to visit the Vatican, as it’s very near.
Visit the Sistine Chapel
Day two of your Roman trip should include a visit to the famous Sistine Chapel. This landmark in Vatican City is home to Michelangelo’s formidable frescoed ceiling, depicting nine important biblical stories that unmistakably seize visitors’ attention.
Next to Michelangelo’s magnum opus, the chapel also boasts equally impressive tapestries and paintings from Renaissance-era greats like Perugino and Botticelli.
Even if you are not religious, the room’s grandiosity, iconography, and artistic splendor all make for a captivating experience.
Interesting fact about Italy: The Sistine Chapel receives 4 million visitors each year, so prepare your visit in advance.
The complexity of the chapel attracts millions of visitors who gaze upon the paintings depicting various biblical accounts, such as the creation of Adam, the ancestors of Christ, the Last Judgement, and more.
Discover St. Peter’s Basilica
After seeing the Sistine Chapel, the next obvious place to visit is St. Peter’s Basilica. This incredible basilica has been standing for hundreds of years since the start of its construction in 1506. Today, it still remains a centerpiece of the city’s magnificent history.
Prepare to be amazed by its beautiful architecture, impressive sculptures, and intricate decorations that have been carefully preserved for centuries. You’ll be in awe at the sheer scale of design, with towering ceilings and historic chapels that bring together Renaissance art and Baroque style to create something truly majestic.
Though St. Peter’s Basilica may require almost 2 hours to explore, consider it invaluable time well spent. You’re sure to take away unforgettable memories from this once-in-a-lifetime destination!
Have Lunch in the Borgo District
Have lunch in the small and peaceful Borgo District. The beauty of the Borgo district is that you can easily walk away from the Vatican sites to this maze of quaint narrow streets.
Good places to eat are plentiful. If you want to cool off, why not head to Hedera and try a great selection of ice creams, fresh seasonal juices, homemade pasta, cocktails, and more?
Or try the historical wine shop Il Petruccino, where locals go to buy their wines and enjoy some pasta, soups, and cheeses.
Spend the Afternoon at Borghese Gallery and Museum
Prepare to marvel at the Borghese Gallery and Museum in Rome’s city center! This iconic museum is one of the most impressive art galleries in Italy, allowing you to explore some of the finest works from top artists like Caravaggio, Bernini, and Titian to name a few.
Before rushing to the artworks themselves, take time to admire the Baroque and Renaissance-influenced buildings.
Aside from an impressive art collection, you can also observe historical sculptures such as antique bastions and monuments to commemorate special moments in Rome’s history.
Whatever artistic or historical interests you have, you’ll be pleasantly surprised by all that this museum has to offer. Before leaving make sure not to forget to snap some photos as souvenirs!
When visiting, make sure to see:
- Sleeping Hermaphrodite by Bernini,
- Apollo and Daphne by Bernini,
- Melissa by Dosso Dossi,
- Dama Con Liocorna by Raphael.
There are many more to see, so keep your eyes peeled.
See the Sunset from Orange Garden (Giardino degli Aranci)
End your day with a beautiful view from Orange Garden (Giardino degli Aranci). It offers an amazing complexion of orange and red hues as the sun sets over Rome.
Don’t forget to bring your camera for a few shots, as you won’t want to miss out on such an epic moment! The garden looks down over the Tiber River giving you a spectacular view as the sun sets over St. Peter’s Dome.
The gaze ranges from the Tiber River to the Temples of the Forum Boarium, from Santa Maria in Cosmedin, to the Janiculum and St.Peter’s dome.
Day 3: Take a Day Trip from Rome
Option One – Pompeii and Mt. Vesuvius Volcano
While Rome is a stunning city full of different things to do, taking a day trip to explore the Italian countryside and Pompeii is an excellent idea.
Not only will you get to witness one of the most famous volcanos in the world but you’ll also be able to wander through the crumbling ruins of Pompeii and imagine what life was like before Vesuvius erupted in 79 A.D.
Mount Vesuvius awoke in a rage of fire and brimstone from its depths. It had laid dormant for about 700 years, and 6,000 people perished and their remains were preserved by the ash.
As Italy’s second most visited site, prepare to arrive early since crowds are inevitable. The best way to get to Pompeii is to join a day trip with an expert guide that’ll take you around the site with unique anecdotes.
The trip gives you an up-close look at one of nature’s greatest disasters, while stepping back in time by seeing ancient artifacts and landmarks.
Option Two – Pompeii and Amalfi Coast
Perhaps you’re craving a scenic travel destination? In this case, why not spend the day at Amalfi Coast? Not far from Pompeii, the Amalfi Coast is considered one of the most beautiful coasts in the world.
Both are situated in the stunningly beautiful region of Campania. On your way south from Rome, you can marvel at views of the ‘Valley of the Temples’ and Mount Vesuvius on one side, and glimpses of Pompeii on the other.
At Pompeii, visit some of Italy’s most interesting archaeological sites before winding up your journey in magical Amalfi, Italy’s answer to Positano; take time to explore what life would be like in an Italian coastal paradise.
Option Three – Tuscany Day Trip with Wine Tasting
Magnificent hills, picturesque towns, vineyards, and medieval castles surrounded by ancient stone walls, are what define Tuscany. The distance from Rome is 173 miles (279km) and the estimated travel time will be 3 hours.
You will have a guide who will show you around the town of Montepulciano and enjoy an authentic 3-course lunch with an Italian wine-tasting experience.
First, take a walking tour of Montepulciano. You will see an old wine cellar and ruins that are older than Rome. Next, visit San Biagio church – a beautiful church from the 16th century with a travertine facade that glows in the sunlight.
After that, a delicious Tuscan lunch awaits you just a short drive away. The 3-course meal with wine pairings in the cellar of an authentic vineyard farmhouse, including the famous Brunello di Montalcino.
You can buy your souvenir Tuscan wine here or wait for the final stop: Pienza – one of my favorite Tuscan towns to visit. Here, you can buy souvenirs like pecorino cheese, wine, and other local memories.
Can you imagine a better day trip from Rome?
Have Dinner in Monti Neighborhood
After a day trip, head over to the Monti neighborhood, the perfect place to have dinner. Located in the center of Rome, it is a bustling area filled with a variety of restaurants serving up delicious Italian dishes.
From traditional Roman cuisine to modern interpretations, every palate can find something to suit their tastes. While there are a few tourist traps, I highly recommend La Forchetta d´Oro, a local, authentic restaurant with cheap and delicious dishes.
When done dining, head over to the Colosseum.
See the Colosseum at Night
Not far from Monti neighborhood, you can walk to the Colosseum, which boasts a totally different setting during the night.
You will feel like it is much bigger and impressive than during the day. This is because it is lit up in a special way that makes it look even more beautiful than usual.
Under the lighting, you will be able to see parts of the Colosseum that you can’t see during the day. Against the blackness of the night sky, it will look even more incredible.
There’s simply no way you could miss that on a trip to Rome, and the last day is the best opportunity. And if you’re on a romantic trip, why not why a rose and take your lover here by surprise? She’ll love it.
3-Day Rome Itinerary – FAQs
Is Rome Worth Visiting?
Without a doubt, Rome is a must-see destination. Rich in its ancient history and culture, the city offers endless entertainment opportunities.
Whether it be marveling at the Ancient Roman Colosseum, exploring the wonders of Vatican City, or relaxing in one of its sun-soaked piazzas.
From scenic overlooks filled with breathtaking sights and sounds to elegant restaurants selling some of Italy’s best culinary delights, there are experiences for all kinds of travelers in this charming city.
Best Months to Visit Rome
Generally, May and June are the best months with enjoyable temperatures and fewer tourist crowds, while July, August and September can be quite hot and very crowded in some parts of the city.
If your priority is fewer people around, October brings mild autumn weather that’s ideal for a tour of the city without all the pushing and shoving.
Are 3 Days in Rome Enough?
Three days is the perfect amount of time to explore Rome, Italy. It gives tourists plenty of time to experience the city’s main attractions without feeling rushed. Rome offers an incredible range of things to do and see — from visiting the Pantheon and Colosseum, to strolling the Spanish Steps and Trevi Fountain, you’ll never be bored!
If you have more days in Rome, you can take your time exploring each iconic attraction and soak up some more of the city’s culture by exploring its charming alleyways, tasting local food, or visiting any one of its gorgeous parks.
How to Get Around Rome?
Rome is spread out, unlike other tourist destinations. You will need to get used to a reliable form of transportation to see all the delights scattered around.
The Bus
The bus routes in Rome a fairly tricky but easy to get the hang of. Bus stops on a map tend to be marked by tiny numbers so you have to trace a route by connecting the “dots” of each number.
Tickets for the Rome buses cost €1 each and are good for 75 minutes of use once you are validated. Buy the BTI (Integrated Tourist Ticket) that can be used for 3 days from validation costing only €11.
There are Trams as well that overlap with the bus routes.
The Metro
The Metro is not as diverse as the other major city metros. The myriad of ruins and archeological sites all over, means there are only two main subway lines, Metropolitana Linea A, and Metropolitana Linea B.
Each Metro stop is marked by a square, red sign with a white M on it. Single-use Metro tickets cost €1 each, good for 75 minutes from when you validate the ticket. The BTI (Integrated Tourist Ticket) is good for 3 days from validation and costs €11.
Taxis
Taxis are convenient due to their availability. However, the traffic in Rome is the least pleasant and at times can result in a standstill. There are fixed rates, but make sure to mind the meter.
Rome taxis line up at specific taxi stands, so if you need a taxi you have to walk to one of those stands. There are taxi stands/queues at places like Termini Station, the Vatican, Piazza Della Repubblica, the Colosseum, and other major intersections or piazzas in Rome.
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Conclusion
Rome is one of those bucket list destinations that you can’t help but cross off your list. With so much history and culture, it’s no wonder why this city is a top tourist destination.
If you’re planning a trip to Rome and wondering how to make the most of your time, look no further than this 3-day itinerary. From exploring ancient ruins to indulging in delicious food, this guide has everything you need to make the most out of your Roman holiday.
