The Perfect Itinerary for 3 Days in Rome
The Perfect Itinerary for 3 Days in Rome
Rome in 3 Days – Itinerary, Tickets and Tips
This itinerary is designed for those visiting Rome for the first time, seeking to immerse themselves in the city’s most iconic landmarks.
While three days in Rome may not be enough to explore the city completely, it is possible to visit its top attractions if you plan things ahead, book your tickets well in advance and use your time effectively.
I’ll provide a detailed day-by-day breakdown, making it easy to follow and packed with useful tips to make the most of your time in the ‘Eternal City’!
Table of Contents
DAY 1 – DISCOVER ANCIENT ROME AND HISTORIC CENTRE
Rome Day 1 Itinerary Summary and Tickets |
|
Morning |
|
Colosseum |
Book a fast-track entry ticket for €35 or book a 3-hour guided tour for €57. |
Roman Forum and Palatine Hill |
Entry to the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill is included in both the Colosseum fast-track entry ticket and guided tour. |
Afternoon |
|
Pantheon |
Book a Pantheon fast-track entry ticket with audio guide for €17.50 |
Piazza Navona |
Free to visit. |
Spanish Steps |
Free to visit. |
Evening |
Trevi Fountain |
Free to visit. |
Colosseum
You’ll start the day at one of Rome’s most iconic landmarks, the Colosseum. This impressive ancient amphitheatre once hosted gladiatorial battles and animal spectacles, and is now considered one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.
You would need at least 2 hours to fully explore the Colosseum. Ideally, I would align it with a visit to the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill as they are literally next to each other and the same ticket grants you access to both.
Inside you will find the labyrinthine underground, with lifts and tunnels used to carry large props and animals up and the arena floor, which was the battleground for gladiator fights.
There are also several exhibitions throughout the Colosseum that showcase various objects, such as gladiatorial equipment, inscriptions, architectural models and items related to the animal hunts.
HOW TO VISIT » The Colosseum is one of those landmark sites that undoubtedly require booking tickets online due to its popularity. However, visitors encounter extreme difficulties getting hold of these tickets as they are often sold out or not yet available when trying to book them well in advance. You can usually find a lot more availability checking either of these two options – priority entrance ticket online (with audio guide) or guided tour |
MORE INFO » For more information, including opening times, more tickets options and FAQs, check out my full guide on Colosseum. |
Roman Forum and Palatine Hill
Just 5 minutes walk away from the Colosseum is the Roman Forum, a symbol of ancient Roman political, religious and cultural life.
The Roman Forum, or Foro Romano in Italian, encompassed several government buildings, temples and marketplaces, offering now a captivating glimpse into the multifaceted life of ancient Rome.
Palatine Hill is one of the Seven Hills of Rome and holds immense historical significance. It is believed that Romulus, the mythical founder of Rome, established here the city in 753 BC. Over the time it became the site of the residences of Rome’s aristocracy and emperors, including the Domus Augustana and the Domus Flavia palaces.
HOW TO VISIT » This ticket for the Colosseum will also give you access to the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill. You can visit it any time from 8:30AM to 6:15PM, but make sure you stick to your Colosseum time slot so don’t enter the Forum more than 24 hours before your Colosseum visit! |
TOP TIP » Once you exit the Colosseum, you have two options for entering the Roman Forum: one directly ahead and another about a 10-minute walk to the west. Choose the latter; the queues are much shorter, and it provides a direct route to Palatine Hill. |
There is a 20 minutes walk from this site to the next location, so I’d suggest having lunch. If you need some recommendations, check out this page with the best pizza in Rome.
Pantheon
The Pantheon in Rome is considered the best-preserved ancient building in the city and a notable example of Roman architecture.
Over the years, the Pantheon has served various purposes, from a temple dedicated to the ancient Roman gods to a Christian church since the 7th century.
Besides the impressive façade with the Latin inscription in bronze, you can’t miss the cylindrical shape of its interior, called the Rotunda. At the top of the structure is the Oculus (‘eye’ in Latin), letting sunlight into the interior.
There are also several burial sites, including Raphael’s, and altars.
HOW TO VISIT » You can purchase an entry ticket online or at the entrance. Note that the ticket office closes one hour before the Pantheon and there’s a maximum capacity per hour, which can lead to long waits or denied entry. To avoid this book your ticket online in advance (It includes audio guide). |
MORE INFO » For more information, including opening times, more tickets options and what to see, check out my full guide on Pantheon. |
Piazza Navona
Just 5 minutes away from the Pantheon you will find Piazza Navona, one of the most famous squares in Rome, renowned for its unique Baroque architecture and vibrant atmosphere.
The centrepiece of the piazza is the famous Fountain of the Four Rivers, or Fontana dei Quattro Fiumi, by Gian Lorenzo Bernini , along with the Obelisk of Domitian on the top.
There are also two smaller fountains: Fontana del Moro (Fountain of the Moor), situated at the southern end of the piazza, contains a distinctive basin and a moorish figure with dolphins and tritons; and Fontana del Nettuno (Fountain of Neptune).
While you are there, you can also visit the Church of Sant’Agnese in Agone – the frescoes inside are simply wonderful – and the Pamphili Palace, which has a rooftop offering 360-degree views of Rome’s skyline.
HOW TO VISIT » Visiting Piazza Navona is completely free and so is the church of Sant’Agnese in Agone. |
MORE INFO » For more information, including interesting facts and FAQs, check out my full guide on Piazza Navona. |
The next stop is the Spanish Steps, located at 20-minute walk from Piazza Navona. If you need a caffeine boost, I highly recommend visiting Barnum Roma at this point, just 5 minutes from the piazza and known as one of the best coffee spots in Rome.
Spanish Steps
The Spanish Steps is an impressive staircase made of 135 steps, three terraces, sculptures and fountains. It is considered one of the most famous landmarks in the city.
The area around the Spanish Steps is known for its vibrant atmosphere, with plenty of art galleries, shops and cafes.
At the top of the staircase is the Trinità dei Monti Church, known for its twin bell towers and the Sallustiano Obelisk. At the bottom, in Piazza di Spagna, you’ll find the Fontana della Barcaccia, a Baroque fountain by Pietro Bernini inspired by a boat legend, and the John Keats Memorial House, a museum for the poet.
You might want to take some time shopping along the famous street Via dei Condotti.
HOW TO VISIT » Visiting the Spanish Steps is free. |
MORE INFO » For more information, including what to see, history and FAQs, check out my full guide on Spanish Steps. |
Trevi Fountain
The Trevi Fountain, also known as La Fontana di Trevi in Italian, is the most famous baroque fountain in the world, featured in numerous movies like La Dolce Vita or Angels and Demons.
It’s well-known for the tradition of tossing coins into the water, with the belief that doing so will ensure a return to Rome.
The 26-meter-high structure includes several Roman statues: Neptune being pulled into the sea by two winged horses, symbolizing the sea’s changing tides; and two statues next to him – Abundance on the left and Health on the right.
HOW TO VISIT » Visiting Trevi Fountain is free. |
MORE INFO » For more information, including history and FAQS, check out my full guide on Trevi Fountain. |
Day 2 – EXPLORE THE VATICAN CITY AND THE CHARMING TRASTEVERE AREA
Rome Day 2 Itinerary Summary and Tickets |
|
Morning |
|
Vatican Museums |
Book a Fast-Track Entry Ticket for €40. |
Afternoon |
|
St. Peter’s Basilica |
Free to visit. However, the queues to enter can get very long, especially during peak season. |
Castel Sant’Angelo |
You can book tickets online in advance for €23, which is highly advisable due to long queues. |
Evening |
Trastevere |
Free to visit. |
Vatican Museums (Sistine Chapel)
The Vatican Museums are a group of 26 museums that house an impressive collection of art, sculptures and objects, spanning from the ancient Egypt to the Renaissance period.
There is plenty to see at the Vatican Museums so I would allocate at least 3 hours to explore them fully.
Undoubtedly the Sistine Chapel is one of the most important attractions in the Vatican Museums and in Rome in general so you can’t leave the city without visiting. These impressive frescoes painted by Michelangelo showcase moments from the Book of Genesis, including the famous ‘Creation of Adam‘, where God’s and Adam’s hands are nearly touching each other.
One of my personal favourites in the Museums is the Gallery of Maps, a 120-meter corridor that features a series of Italian topographical maps. Another highlight is the Raphael Rooms, a suite of four papal apartments painted by the renowned artist Raphael.
HOW TO VISIT » It is currently estimated that 20,000 people visit the Vatican Museums every day so it is highly advisable to make online reservations in advance. To guarantee fast-access, book a Skip-the-Line Entry Ticket. |
TOP TIP » If you plan to visit St. Peter’s Basilica afterwards, I recommend booking a guided tour of the Vatican Museums. This tour grants you access to the church through an internal passageway, allowing you to skip the long queue for the Basilica. |
MORE INFO » For more information, including opening times, more tickets and guided tour options and what to see check out my full guide on Vatican Museums (Sistine Chapel). |
St. Peter’s Basilica
Another obligatory stop when visiting the Vatican City is St. Peter’s Basilica, the largest Renaissance church in the world. It is known for its religious significance for Catholicism as well as for being a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Besides admiring its façade with impressive Corinthian columns and statues, there is plenty to see in the interior.
Once inside, you will find the Pietà to the right. This breathtaking sculpture by Michelangelo portrays Jesus Christ’s body on the lap of his mother Mary just after the Crucifixion.
Right over the main altar and beneath the dome, is the Baldacchino, a 29-metre-tall bronze canopy designed by Gian Lorenzo Bernini.
The Dome of the Basilica, designed by Michelangelo, is considered the tallest dome in the world and a key part of Rome’s skyline. The design was based on the dome of the Pantheon.
It can be reached by climbing 550 steps. Trust me, the effort is well worth it – the panoramic views of Vatican City and Rome from the top are truly spectacular. You can access it only by specifically booking a Guided Tour of St. Peter’s Basilica with entry to the Dome.
The same tour includes access to the Vatican Grottoes, right beneath St. Peter’s Basilica. They are made of a series of chambers, chapels and tombs of previous popes throughout history.
HOW TO VISIT » St. Peter’s Basilica is free to visit. However, it is estimated that around 40,000 people visit the Basilica every day so queues can get pretty long, especially during peak season. |
TOP TIP » If you are also thinking of visiting the Vatican Museums, remember you can book this guided tour that will allow you to skip the queue for the Basilica! |
MORE INFO » For more information, including opening times, more tickets options and what to do, check out my full guide on St. Peter’s Basilica. |
Castel Sant’Angelo
From St. Peter’s Basilica, stroll along Via della Conciliazione to Castel Sant’Angelo, also known as the Castle of the Holy Angel. This castle has served various purposes over the centuries, from a mausoleum for the Roman Emperor Hadrian and his family to a fortress and papal residence.
Once considered the tallest building in Rome, Castel Sant’Angelo has been a museum since the 20th century. You can explore it in about 2 hours.
While walking around the fortress and prison cells is interesting, the highlight is undoubtedly the stunning 360-degree view of Rome and the Vatican from the terrace, especially at sunset.
HOW TO VISIT » You can book tickets online in advance which is highly advisable due to long queues. |
MORE INFO » For more information, including opening times, more tickets options and what to see, check out my full guide on Castel Sant’Angelo. |
Trastevere
There is no better way to end your busy than in the Trastevere area. Trastevere is a picturesque neighbourhood in Rome, full of narrow cobbled streets and charming medieval houses. Known for its lively atmosphere and trattorias, it’s the perfect place if you are looking to enjoy authentic Roman cuisine at night.
Trastevere is located opposite the Vatican on the river Tiber so it won’t be a long walk after your visit to Castel Sant’Angelo.
If you are looking for a place to have dinner, I highly recommend checking out the following best restaurants in the Trastevere area.
Alternatively, if you are looking for a different way to explore the neighbourhood and sample some of the best food from the area, you can join a food walking tour around the Trastevere. On these three-hour guided food and wine tours, you will learn about its culinary history while experiencing the flavours of authentic Roman food and wine. You can expect at least ten tastings, paired with local wine from the Lazio region.
Whichever option you choose, there are several things you can’t miss in the Trastevere area. These include Santa Maria in Trastevere Basilica with its medieval character; Janiculum Terrace, which offers panoramic views of the city; and Isola Tiberina, a small island connected by the two oldest bridges in Rome – It’s a great spot for a walk and to enjoy the riverside views.
MORE INFO » For more information on what to do in the area, check out my full guide on Trastevere. |
Day 3 – THE ROMAN WAY: art and leisure
Rome Day 3 Itinerary Summary and Tickets |
|
Morning |
|
Borghese Gallery |
Ticket reservations for this museum are obligatory. You can book online an entry ticket for €29 or a guided tour for €69. |
Villa Borghese Gardens |
Free to visit. |
Afternoon |
|
Capitoline Museums |
You can book online an entry ticket to the Capitoline Museums for €22 which includes the exhibitions. |
Evening |
|
Pasta Making Class |
You can book your tickets online. |
Borghese Gallery and Villa Borghese Gardens
Romans were known for their love of art and leisure, and that’s what this day is all about. You’ll start by heading to Villa Borghese.
Located within Villa Borghese is the Borghese Gallery, an art museum that houses a large collection of paintings and sculptures from the Renaissance and Baroque periods. It features twenty rooms spread across two floors.
If you are an art enthusiast, you are in for a treat – you can find some of the most important works by Gian Lorenzo Bernini, Caravaggio and Raphael.
HOW TO VISIT » Please note that for this museum it is obligatory to book online an entry ticket in advance. |
After your visit to the Borghese Gallery, take some time to explore Villa Borghese. The park covers about 80 hectares and is the largest park in Rome, with various attractions.
You can stroll or bike through the gardens full of Roman art statues and enjoy the beautiful space. There is plenty to see and do to fill the rest of your morning.
VIEWPOINT » One of my personal favourites is visiting Pincio Terrace which offers panoramic views of the city, including the dome of St. Peter’s Basilica.
There is also a lake in the park with a small artificial island that has the Temple of Aesculapius. You can rent a rowboat and paddle around the lake for €3 per person. Tickets are available at a kiosk by the lake.
You can also visit the Secret Gardens with the same entry ticket for the Borghese Gallery museum. They are a lesser-known part of Villa Borghese and many tourists overlook it. You will find a variety of citrus trees and exotic flowers, geometrically arranged and with symmetrical designs.
HOW TO VISIT » Villa Borghese is free to visit. |
MORE INFO » For more information, including opening times, more tickets and guided tours options and what to do, check out my full guide on Borghese Gallery and Villa Borghese. |
Capitoline Museums
The Capitoline Museums are the oldest public museums in the world and, in my opinion, an art hidden treasure much quieter than more popular spots like the Vatican Museums, as they are often overlooked by tourists.
Located at Piazza Campidoglio, they are made of three buildings interconnected by an underground corridor: Palazzo dei Conservatori on the right, Palazzo Senatorio straight ahead, and Palazzo Nuovo on the left.
You will see a vast collection of ancient Roman sculptures, including the famous Lupa Capitolina, a symbol of Rome, and the original equestrian statue of Emperor Marcus Aurelius.
At the Palazzo Senatorio, you can visit the Tabularium, which once held the laws and official records of the Roman State. Walk around its historic corridors, fragments, and statues, and have your camera ready for the breathtaking views of the Roman Forum.
VIEWPOINT » Even if you don’t have time to visit the Capitoline Museums, you can still access the cafeteria and rooftop for free from the Campidoglio steps. It is called Terrazza Caffarelli and offers impressive views of Rome.
HOW TO VISIT » Skip the line and secure your entry by booking a ticket online or enhace your experience joining a guided tour. |
MORE INFO » For more information, including opening times, more tickets and guided tours options and what to visit, check out my full guide on Capitoline Museums. |
Pasta Making Class
To finish the day on a high note, I’ve included this Italian cooking class as a perfect way to unwind after all the busy sightseeing.
Just a quick walk from the Capitoline Museums, this 3-hour workshop led by chefs will teach you how to make three different types of pasta from scratch – ravioli, tortellini, and fettuccine – along with some pasta sauces. As you cook, you’ll enjoy organic Tuscan wine.
At the end, you’ll taste your creations, finishing the experience with a dessert and a shot of limoncello.
Tickets for Pasta Making Class |
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Map for 3 Day Rome Itinerary
HOW TO USE THE MAP » If you click the tab in the top left corner you will view different layers, including the locations to visit each day and the recommended walking routes. You can hide or show layers by clicking the check boxes. |
How to get around Rome
Rome has a very well-connected public transport network that includes metro, buses, trams and regional trains, making it convenient for tourists to explore its historical sites and attractions. The shared fare system allows easy transfers between different means of transport.
If you need more information on tickets prices and how to buy them, check out my Rome transport page.
Another great way to get around and learn about the city is through the Rome Hop-On Hop-Off Bus.
These double-deckers buses with open tops follow a set route, stopping at Rome’s main attractions. They allow the passengers to hop off and rejoin any bus as many times from 9:00AM to 6:00PM.
While on board, passengers will be able to use an insightful audio guide. You can buy tickets online, with the option to select the duration (24h, 48h or 72h).
Saving money on Rome attractions
Rome has many historical sites and ancient landmarks to explore, but getting tickets for these attractions can be expensive and time-consuming. You can save both money and time by purchasing a Rome city pass, which offers skip-the-line entry to most popular landmarks and various discounts. For some passes, you can even book all your tickets at once when purchasing, instead of navigating multiple websites.
The challenge is selecting the right pass. Check out my page for a detailed comparison of the best Rome tourist cards, including prices, duration, and sites covered, to help you decide which one is best for your trip.
Rome City Passes |
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In my opinion, either the Rome Tourist Card or the Vatican City Pass are ideal for tourists visiting Rome for the first time and for short duration but wish to see the key sites of both Rome and the Vatican. |
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City Pass Details
