things to do in rome in 3 days

Rome, the Eternal City, is a treasure trove of history, architecture, art, and cuisine. Here’s a suggested 3-day itinerary to help you make the most of your visit:

Day 1: Ancient Rome

  1. Colosseum (70-80 EUR per person): Start your day with a guided tour of the iconic amphitheater, one of Rome’s most recognizable landmarks.
  2. Roman Forum (12 EUR per person): Explore the ancient heart of Rome, featuring ruins like the Temple of Julius Caesar and the Arch of Titus.
  3. Palatine Hill (12 EUR per person): Visit the birthplace of Rome, offering stunning views of the city.
  4. Lunch: Enjoy a traditional Italian meal at a trattoria near the Roman Forum, like "La Taverna dei Fori Imperiali" or "Il Pagliaccio".
  5. Pantheon (free): Visit this magnificently preserved ancient temple, built in 126 AD.

Day 2: Vatican City and the City Center

  1. Vatican Museums (20-25 EUR per person): Spend the morning exploring the Vatican’s vast art collection, including works by Michelangelo and Raphael.
  2. Sistine Chapel (included in Vatican Museums ticket): Marvel at Michelangelo’s famous ceiling and altar wall paintings.
  3. St. Peter’s Basilica (free): Visit the largest Christian church in the world, featuring an impressive dome designed by Michelangelo.
  4. Lunch: Try a classic Italian pizza at "Pizzeria La Montecarlo" or "Pizzeria Roscioli".
  5. Trevi Fountain (free): Toss a coin into the beautiful baroque fountain to ensure your return to Rome.
  6. Spanish Steps (free): Admire the grand staircase, one of Rome’s most famous landmarks.

Day 3: Renaissance and Baroque Rome

  1. Galleria Borghese (11-13 EUR per person): Discover an impressive collection of Renaissance and Baroque art, including works by Bernini and Caravaggio.
  2. Villa Borghese (free): Stroll through the beautiful park, which features gardens, a lake, and walking trails.
  3. Lunch: Enjoy a meal at "La Gensola" or "Il Convivio", two restaurants serving traditional Roman cuisine.
  4. Piazza Navona (free): Admire the charming square, featuring three ornate fountains and many baroque buildings.
  5. Campo de’ Fiori (free): Explore the historic market square, where you can find fresh produce, flowers, and souvenirs.

Additional tips:

  • Buy a Roma Pass (32.50 EUR for 3 days) to get free entry to many attractions and reduced ticket prices for others.
  • Consider purchasing a guided tour to skip long lines and gain deeper insights into Rome’s history and art.
  • Take breaks to enjoy the city’s street food, gelato, and coffee culture.
  • Be prepared for crowds and long lines at popular attractions.
  • Explore Rome’s many neighborhoods, like Trastevere and Monti, to discover hidden gems and local favorites.

This itinerary should give you a good taste of Rome’s history, art, and culture, but feel free to adjust it to your interests and preferences. Buon viaggio!

Rate this post