Are you visiting Rome for the first time and searching for the best things to do in Rome in 3 days? In this post, you can find a curated 3 days in Rome Itinerary with tons of ideas for every kind of traveler, including pro tips to make planning your trip to Rome easier.
Eloquently stated in this quote by Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, “Yes, I have finally arrived to this Capital of the World! I now see all the dreams of my youth coming to life… Only in Rome is it possible to understand Rome.” I completely agree. No wonder that all roads lead to Rome!
The capital city of Italy is one of the most popular urban tourist destinations not just in Europe, but around the world. The rich history, art, and entertainment opportunities make Rome one of those places, where literally everyone can find something for their taste.
This Rome 3 day itinerary is really, really stuffed. Each daily walking tour is doable, however, it’s going to be a little bit exhausting. At each site, you have the option to enter or not to enter!
Sightseeing in Rome can be really tricky, as there are way too many things you can include in your daily plans. I’ll be adding different options for each stop, but I need to clarify that if you’re planning to visit museums, and rooftops, you won’t have enough time to do all the stops along the way! If you’re heading to Rome for only 3 days, make sure to plan it realistically.
These routes are designed for walking tours. Each route is about 4-5km long. The route on the 3rd day is the longest of all. We will start each day from Piazza Venezia, that being in the center of all the things you need to see in the Italian capital city.
When to visit Rome?
Thanks to the geographical location, Rome is great to visit in any season of the year. However, it’s really important to consider your personal needs!
Rome is getting more and more popular in the winter season, as it’s less crowded, and it’s not freezing cold, so walking is still great! The summers are really hot in the Italian capital, so I really recommend avoiding the summer if you’re not really used to that heat.
The best period I would say is during the spring and the autumn. The temperature is usually around 20°C / 68°F during the day, which is ideal for walking tours!
How to get around Rome?
Most of the things that for us travelers and visitors are important, are all to be found in the Historic center of Rome. If you’re staying here, you won’t need to use public transport, as everything is within walking distance.
However, if you do need to, you can get tickets at any newspaper shop to use for all public transports. These are valid for 100 minutes, and one ticket is €1.50.
On the other hand, a taxi is the most common form of transportation in Rome, if you’d rather avoid public transport. Uber isn’t really a thing in Rome, and usually not in Italy. However, you can order an Uber Lux or Uber Black while getting around Rome or even to get from Rome Fiumicino airport to the city center!
Or when you arrive at the airport, you can easily take a shuttle bus into the city, or you can also pre-book a private transfer. If you need a place to store your luggage, this is one that I previously used.
Note: If you prefer to be guided around Rome, you can take this 3-hour walking tour of Rome Highlights. It can be a good start for your adventure in Rome.
Where to stay in Rome?
If you’re looking for luxury hotels, I would recommend the Hotel Palazzo Manfredi, and the Palazzo Naiadi. For mid-budget accommodation, I really suggest looking in the area of Piazza Navona for a B&B such as Inn Rome Rooms & Suites, and for Airbnb in the area of the Vatican City and Trastevere. The most charming apartments are all there!
For solo female travelers, who are on a budget, I recommend the Orsa Maggiore Hostel for Women Only. As its name indicates, it’s only for ladies, and the prices per night don’t go over €15, which is great since it’s also very close to the main landmarks.
Booking.comRome 3 day Itinerary: Best Things to do in Rome in 3 days
Day 1 – From Piazza Venezia to Piazza del Popolo
Altare della Patria and the Capitolium Hill
The Altare della Patria is hard to miss. The enormous white monument stands proudly on Piazza Venezia, at the feet of the Capitolium Hill. It was built in honor of Vittorio Emmanuele II, the first king of unified Italy. The monument is a neoclassical masterpiece representing the Roman Forum, as a new age agora.
Tip: You can go up to the top via elevator or stairs (196). The rooftop of the Altare allows for a 360-degree view of Rome. The elevator will cost you €7.00.
On the right-hand side of the Altare della Patria you can see the large stairs leading up to the Capitolium hill, which is one of Rome’s seven hills. The amazing design of Piazza del Campidoglio was done by Michelangelo, one of the Renaissance’s most famous artists.
You’ll find an imposing bronze statue of Marcus Aurelius in the middle of the square, along with the Palazzo Senatorio, Palazzo Nuovo and the Palazzo dei Conservatori. Don’t miss the legendary Capitoline Wolf sculpture.
Fontana di Trevi
Rome’s biggest baroque fountain, and one of the most famous fountains on the planet. The 26 m tall and 20 m broad fountain was built in the 17th century, and it’s still the most exquisite place to be found in the capital.
As you may already know, people throw coins into the fountains, and then they make a wish. Now, what’s the real tradition and belief? It actually originated from the 1954 movie called “Three Coins in the Fountain.”
Toss a coin: If you toss one coin, you will return to Rome. Do it with two to fall in love with an Italian, and three to marry the person that you met.
Ristorante Sugo d’Oro
This is one of my favorite restaurants in Rome. It’s located between the Trevi Fountain and the Piazza di Spagna, on the corner of Via di Propaganda and Via della Vite. A stylish Italian restaurant, with amazing food. If you’re a fan of seafood, we especially suggest that you eat here! It’s a mid-budget place, with the food made of ingredients from local suppliers.
Tip: If you are foodie, take this Street Food Tour with a local guide or take this fun cooking class.
Piazza di Spagna and Trinita dei Monti
Piazza di Spagna is one of the most popular squares in Rome, with a stunning Baroque style, and the famous Spanish Steps leading up to the church of Trinita dei Monti. You can also see here, the beautiful Fontana della Barcaccia, which is a fountain that looks like a boat, standing in the middle of the square.
This is one of the most popular neighborhoods in Rome, hosting the fashion industry’s biggest names. Via dei Condotti, the street that’s facing the Spanish Steps is the most popular, where you can explore the stores of the most famous luxury brands.
Villa Borghese and Terrazza del Pincio
When you arrive on top of the Spanish steps, go straight on the left. You’ll see on the way as first the Villa Medici, and a few steps further you’ll see a small alleyway leading to the top of the hill. There’s no way you can miss it!
The Villa Borghese is one of the largest parks in Rome. This park is the Italian version of places like Central Park in NYC or Hyde Park in London. What makes it so Roman? It has beautiful viewpoints, from where you can see the whole historic center. There are breathtaking Roman villas, amazing sculptures, fountains, lakes, and many more sculptures.
If you are traveling with your family, there is this cool Villa Borghese Family Game Tour. You get to experience the stunning Villa Borghese from a different perspective on a treasure hunt through its grounds.
It’s perfect to get out of those narrow streets and enjoy the art in nature. You can also visit the museum here called Galleria Borghese; the entrance is €20. If you’re already in the park, you can walk from here to Terrazza del Pincio directly or it can also be reached from the Piazza del Popolo.
Pro tip: If you are seeking some fun moments, definitely rent a bike (the one with 4 heels is the best fun for a small group). There are also many enjoyable bike tours that you can join.
Example: For early birds, there is this morning e-bike tour and a sunrise e-bike tour with coffee tastings; for Foodies, there is this e-bike Rome highlights tour with food tastings, for those who like going off the beaten path, there is this Half-Day Ancient Appian Way & Aqueducts E-Bike Tour, and lastly, for the night owls, there is even a Rome by night e-bike tour and even a night one where you can end the tour with a slice of pizza and a beer as you overlook the Colosseum. This is just as entertaining, and healthy, way to see and explore some of Rome’s beautiful sights.
Ristorante Ciampini
The restaurant is located on Trinita dei Monti, right near the Villa Medici. Usually, if you’re following this route, you’ll be arriving here in the afternoon when it’s already time for Happy hour.
Why is that good? This is the best time for aperitives! We recommend that you order an Aperol Spritz (in most places it’s valid) and you usually get a snack for free too. Each restaurant provides its own snack available near the drinks. The Ristorante Ciampini, they have these delicious mini sandwiches made with fresh tomato sauce, mozzarella and some with ham! Delicious!
Piazza del Popolo
Piazza del Popolo is the starting point of Via Flaminia, the main entrance of Rome during the times of the Empire. This was the first place people coming from the north would have seen upon their arrival to Rome.
You can see, in the middle of the square, the Flaminio Obelisk. You can also visit the church of Santa Maria del Popolo, to see Caravaggio’s two canvases kept there. Lastly, go to the twin churches, Santa Maria dei Miracoli and Santa Maria in Montesanto. They look similar on the outside, but they differ inside. As previously mentioned, you can walk up from the square to Pincio Park and Terrazza del Pincio for a stunning view of this area.
Rooftop Terrace: Sina Bernini Bristol
This rooftop terrace is a little bit far, from Piazza del Popolo on foot is about a 20 minute walk, but it’s worth a visit. If you’d rather take a break from walking, you can ride the metro from the nearest stop called Flaminio. It’s one of the best rooftop bars in Rome, with stunning views. Great to enjoy some cocktails and/or even dinner. Food is just as tasty as their drinks!
Day 2 – From Piazza Venezia to Piazza Navona
Pantheon
The Pantheon is located in the heart of Rome, on Piazza della Rotonda. The enormous temple was built in the 2nd century, and it’s Rome’s best-preserved building from the Roman Empire. The open oculus on the roof of the building makes it even more unique, this being, by the way, the main light source of the building.
The entrance for visitors is free, and it’s open during the day, with limited opening hours on Sunday. Bear in mind to bring with you cover-up, and wear long skirt/dress/jeans whatever otherwise you’ll not be allowed inside. Remember, this is a church.
There is also an option for a Pantheon & Santa Maria Sopra Minerva Guided Tour.
Ristorante Mamma Roma
The restaurant is located on Via del Rinascimento, right near the Piazza Navona. As it’s not directly on the square, it’s not that crowded, and not that expensive, which is really good! The food in this restaurant is amazing!
The pasta dishes are made of home-made pasta, and their pizza is, indescribable. My favorite pizza I had so far in this place was the Capricciosa. As a mid-budget place, which means a pizza is about €10-12.
Piazza Navona
The most charming, most beautiful Baroque square in Rome, Piazza Navona, is also the most popular square in the city, and happens to be my favorite piazza. It was built in the 15th century on the site of the Circus Agonalis stadium from the Roman Empire.
During the day, currently, it hosts a large art and painting market with many street artists present too. There are 3 fountains, the Fontana dei Quatro Fiumi, designed by Bernini, and the Fontana dei Moro and Fontana del Nettuno on the two ends of the piazza.
The piazza is surrounded by restaurants, so there are plenty to choose from. However, in this area, the prices are much higher, and some places are really touristy (in quality as well) so, I suggest choosing a spot outside the square!
Heading towards the south part of the square to Via del Governo Vecchio, some other great restaurants can be spotted like Ristorante Pasquino, and the Bistro & Wine bar Pasquino.
This street has dozens of amazing handcrafted gelato shops, as an example, the Ice cRome. Governo Vecchio is famous for its cute shops, small restaurants, pubs, gelato shops and for oozing Italian charm!
Walking all the way down this street will lead us to the next stop.
Castel Sant’ Angelo
At the end of Via del Governo Vecchio, this small square is usually used for its car park, followed by Via del Banco di Santo Spirito on the right. Following this street, you will arrive to the Sant’ Angelo bridge and the amazing Castel Sant’ Angelo.
The castle was originally built in the Roman Empire, to serve as the mausoleum for the emperor Hadrian and his family. Later on, it was used as a military fortress. In the Middle Ages, it comes under the Vatican’s control, and the castle was connected to it, so in case of danger, the pope could escape.
The museum functioning inside the castle is split into 5 floors, where you can discover the papal residences and the cells of historic figures. In the papal residences, you can see some beautifully preserved Renaissance frescoes and some extended weapon collections too. It’s really worth visiting and going up to the rooftop, for an amazing view of the city!
The entrance is €14,00 and you can get tickets on sight or online. As it’s not that over visited, you won’t be facing big lines at this one, if you’re purchasing your ticket upon arrival. I do always recommend getting tickets in advance online. You never know!
If you enjoy as much as I do learning about the history of the site, I would suggest taking this small intimate group tour of Castel Sant’ Angelo which includes skipping the line tickets.
St Peter’s Basilica and the Vatican City
Heading from the Castel Sant’ Angelo toward the Vatican, you will first arrive the St Peter’s Square, and the St Peter’s Basilica. The square is one of the most famous and largest squares in the world. What to see here? First, the 284 columns on both sides embracing the square. In the middle of the square a 25-meter tall Egyptian obelisk is standing. There are two very similar fountains on the two sides of the square. One was designed by Lorenzo Bernini, the other one by Carlo Moderno.
The highlight for Dan Brown lovers. Around the obelisk, you can actually find the symbol of air appearing in the book and movie of Angels and Demons.
The main cathedral of the Catholic church, the St Peter’s Basilica is one of the world’s largest churches. The new building was finished in the 17th century, including the work of artists and architects such as Michelangelo, Bramante, and Carlo Moderno as well.
You can visit the basilica for free. However, on Sundays, it’s limited access to just some parts of it. As an additional experience, I really suggest visiting the cupola.
You can reach it on stairs the whole way up for free, or you can use the elevator for a fee of €8, and that will take you to the top of the church. From there you’ll need to use the tiny stairs all around the cupola to the top. That view is worth everything! Note: You can also take a guided tour of St. Peter’s Basilica with the Dome Climb included.
Like the last one, you can also visit the Vatican Museums. I really suggest booking your tickets in advance, to avoid getting stuck in queues for hours or personally I would pay more to skip the line.
You can also get regular tickets on the Vatican museum’s official page, but keep in mind that it is always crowded, so the skip-the-line tickets are a better alternative, especially while having limited time!
The museums and the Sistine Chapel will take you at least 3 hours, if not more. So plan carefully what you’ll be doing at each stop, as if you’re entering everywhere, 3 days won’t be enough at all!
I always suggest joining this 3-hour tour of the Vatican with fast-track access, especially when you only have 3 days in Rome. You can explore the Vatican Museums, the Sistine Chapel and the St. Peter’s Basilica, and marvel at their unique Renaissance masterpieces.
Things to do at night in Rome
Great places to spend the evening in the area: Terrazza Borromini is located on Piazza Navona. A rooftop terrace with a spectacular view on the rooftops of the historic center of Rome, and the cupolas of the churches.
Campo di Fiori is another great spot to head in the evenings. When the market on the square is closed, the city is filled with life and laughter coming from the restaurants.
Back on via del Governo Vecchio, the Pizzeria and the Bistro Pasquino are really great to get some amazing pasta, and wooden-baked pizza.
Pasta & Tiramisu Workshop with Dinner – Enjoy a cooking class in the heart of Rome to learn how to make pasta from scratch, and the famous Tiramisù dessert from simple and fresh ingredients. Relax after and enjoy the meal you have prepared.
Go on a Jewish Ghetto & Campo de Fiori by Night Food Tour – Immerse yourself in the food, wine and culture of Rome on a 4-hour evening walking tour with tastings.
Day 3 – From Piaza Venezia to Trastrevere
Colosseum and Roman Forum
Heading from Piazza Venezia toward the Colosseum, you’ll be passing the Altare della Patria on the right, the Foro Traiano, and other ancient remainings of the Empire all along the Via dei Fori Imperiali. On the right-hand side you’ll be able to see the Roman Forum as well.
The Colosseum is part of the 7 wonders of the world. With a history of 2000 years, this is a MUST SEE in Rome. The perfect way to get into a time machine and travel back in time to the Roman Empire.
The best is to visit it together with the Roman Forum and get a ticket for both together. Prices are €12.00 to €16.00 for these and the Palatine Hill. Depending on if you’re purchasing on the sight or online.
There’s a saying that visiting Rome without a walk on the Roman Forum is like visiting Paris without seeing the Eiffel tower. There’s no better way to relive the history, than imagining to walk in the footsteps of the emperor Julius Caesar.
Around the Colosseum, you’ll see the Arco di Constantino, which is one of the most famous arches in Rome. Also walking straight from this on Via di San Gregorio, you’ll reach the Circo Massimo, the most famous stadium of ancient Rome.
Tip: You can get skip the ticket lines on this 3-hour guided tour where you will be visiting Rome’s oldest monuments: Colosseum, Roman Forum & Palatine Hill Tour. Benefit from a maximum of 20 people and priority group entrance on your trip back in time.
Aventino Hill, Tiberina Island and Trastevere
On the side of the stadium, you can walk over the side of the Aventine Hill, on Via dei Cerchi. Depending on preferences, you have some options here:
The Aventine Hill is one of Rome’s 7 hills. It’s famous for its orange gardens, stunning panorama, and another hidden treasure, the Knights of Malta’s Keyhole. To arrive back easily on the route, near the Orange Garden is a hidden passage you can walk down to the riverside of the Tevere.
If you’re skipping the hill, walk along the Via dei Cerchi to reach the riverside. Pro-tip: on the way to check the Boccal della Verita (Mouth of Truth).
Walking along the river, we arrive at the Tiberina Island, which is in a boat-shaped island in the middle of the river, connected on both sides with bridges. It’s the seat of the ancient temple of Asclepius and later a hospital. Crossing the Island, we’ll arrive at one of Rome’s most authentic neighborhoods, the Trastevere. Cobbled narrow streets. Colorful buildings cover with flowers and ivy.
This neighborhood, besides its authenticity, it’s highly advised to visit for its amazing family-owned and traditional restaurants. Great bistros for afternoon aperitives, and great bars for the evenings.
The most famous square is the Piazza del Santa Maria in Trastevere. You’ll find here the recently restored Basilica di Santa Maria in Trastevere as well. It’s a popular spot also for street artists, especially in the evenings.
Some bistrós to check in Trastevere:
Tonnarello and Ombre Rosse. They are right near each other, both having a bit of authentic and a bit of modern style in them. These are really great for the previously mentioned happy hour drinks and snacks.
47 Boutique Hotel Rome, another stunning rooftop bar located near the Tevere river.
Additional suggestions for your trip to Rome
- Make sure to have cash with you. However, in most places you can pay with card, as in usually in Italy, cash is more popular than card.
- In many places you won’t be able to pay with American Express!!!
- The summers in Rome can be really hot, and the humidity is insane, so if you’re not used to walking in that weather, I really do suggest visiting during the spring or autumn.
- If you’re planning to visit the popular sights like Colosseum, Roman Forum, Vatican Museum, or any other larger museum, bear in mind that you’ll need to add extra hours to your itinerary which can result on skipping other sights due to shortage of time. I could not suggest more to get the skip-the-line or priority access tickets.
- Make sure you’re wearing comfortable shoes! Walking around in Rome for 3 days isn’t easy, especially for those who aren’t used to so much walking. But walking for 3 days in Rome in the wrong shoes will turn your trip into a nightmare. Most of the streets in Rome are covered with cobblestones, and while that makes the place charming and lovely, your legs won’t be enjoying it.
Optional Day trips from rome, if you have some extra days
From Rome to the Roman Countryside Vineyards and Wine Tasting – On this picturesque wine tasting tour you will be taken from the Eternal City to a tranquil hillside Villa, encircled by vineyards and olive groves in the Frascati countryside.
Frascati Food & Wine: Full-Day Rome Countryside Tour – Spend a day in the Roman countryside tasting local delicacies and premium DOCG Frascati wines. In the Castelli Romani area, you’ll visit Castel Gandolfo, Frascati and Nemi, visiting wineries and discovering this beautiful region.
Day Trip to Pompeii & Amalfi Coast from Rome – Live an unforgettable experience as you enjoy a full-day tour along the Mediterranean Coast discovering the archeological site of Pompeii and breathtaking views of the Amalfi Coast.
Wrapping Up
While 3 days in Rome is barely enough time to scratch the surface of the city, I hope that this 3 days in Rome itinerary helped you to create an amazing trip for yourself in Rome. I hope that you enjoy Rome as much as I do. Safe Travels!
Of course, if you have any questions about this Rome itinerary, feel free to comment below.
This is a guest post written by Helga Dosa from ShegoWandering
About The Author: Travel blogger, writer, editor, and photographer. I’m passionate about life, traditions, culture, warm destinations, and Latin countries. The focus of my work at the moment is on Italian and Spanish destinations, bringing the most authentic and colorful places for you to visit! You can follow her adventures on Instagram.
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