3 Days in Rome: The Perfect Itinerary

Three days in Rome is the perfect amount of time to experience the Eternal City’s greatest highlights. From the ancient Colosseum to the masterpieces of the Vatican, from charming Trastevere streets to the best carbonara of your life – this itinerary covers it all.

We’ve designed this 3 day Rome itinerary to balance iconic landmarks with authentic local experiences, giving you the perfect mix of history, art, food, and la dolce vita.

Day 1: Ancient Rome

Your first day focuses on ancient Rome – the heart of the empire that ruled the world.

Morning: Colosseum & Roman Forum

Start early at the Colosseum, the iconic symbol of Rome. Book a skip-the-line tour to avoid the crowds and get access to the arena floor where gladiators once fought.

After the Colosseum, walk through the Roman Forum and up to Palatine Hill. This was the political and social center of ancient Rome, and the views are stunning.

Lunch: Monti Neighborhood

Head to Monti, Rome’s hippest neighborhood just steps from the Colosseum. Try La Taverna dei Fori Imperiali for classic Roman pasta.

Afternoon: Trevi Fountain & Spanish Steps

Walk to the Trevi Fountain – toss a coin to ensure your return to Rome. Then stroll to the Spanish Steps and enjoy a gelato while people-watching.

Evening: Trastevere

Cross the river to Trastevere for dinner. This charming neighborhood has the best trattorias in Rome. Get lost in the cobblestone streets and find a spot with tables outside.

Day 2: Vatican City

Day two is dedicated to the Vatican – home to some of humanity’s greatest artistic treasures.

Morning: Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel

Book an early entry tour to experience the Vatican Museums before the crowds arrive. The Sistine Chapel is breathtaking when it’s not packed with thousands of people.

The museums are massive – allow at least 3 hours. Highlights include the Raphael Rooms and the Gallery of Maps.

Late Morning: St. Peter’s Basilica

After the Sistine Chapel, enter St. Peter’s Basilica. It’s free but lines can be long. Climb the dome for incredible views over Rome.

Lunch: Prati

Stay in the Prati neighborhood near the Vatican. Less touristy than the centro storico with excellent local restaurants.

Afternoon: Castel Sant’Angelo

Walk along the Tiber to Castel Sant’Angelo. This ancient fortress has a fascinating history and panoramic rooftop views.

Evening: Piazza Navona

End your day in Piazza Navona, one of Rome’s most beautiful squares. Have an aperitivo and watch the street performers.

Day 3: Art, Food & Hidden Rome

Your final day mixes world-class art with authentic Roman food experiences.

Morning: Borghese Gallery

Start at the Borghese Gallery. Reservations are mandatory and limited – book in advance. The Bernini sculptures here are absolutely incredible.

After the museum, take a relaxing walk through Villa Borghese gardens.

Late Morning: Pantheon

Head to the Pantheon, the best-preserved ancient Roman building. Entry is now ticketed but inexpensive.

Lunch: Campo de’ Fiori

Walk to Campo de’ Fiori market. Browse the fresh produce, then grab lunch at one of the surrounding trattorias.

Afternoon: Food Tour or Jewish Ghetto

Option 1: Join a food tour through Testaccio, Rome’s traditional foodie neighborhood.

Option 2: Explore the Jewish Ghetto, one of Rome’s most historic areas with amazing restaurants.

Evening: Aperitivo with a View

For your last evening, splurge on a rooftop aperitivo. Hotel Raphael or Terrazza Borromini offer unforgettable views over the city.

Practical Tips

Best Time to Visit: April-May or September-October for pleasant weather and fewer crowds.

Getting Around: Rome’s centro storico is walkable. Use the metro for longer distances.

Book in Advance: Colosseum, Vatican, and Borghese Gallery all require advance booking, especially in high season.

Eat Like a Local: Lunch is the main meal. Avoid restaurants with photos on menus or staff trying to pull you in.

Budget Tip: Many churches have incredible art and are free to enter.

Final Thoughts

Three days in Rome gives you a taste of why this city has captivated visitors for millennia. From ancient ruins to Renaissance masterpieces, from perfect pasta to vibrant piazzas – Rome delivers unforgettable experiences at every turn.

Ready to start planning? Book your skip-the-line tours in advance and prepare for the trip of a lifetime.