3 Days Itinerary for Rome

Rome is such a beautiful city with so many things to see and do. Being known for being one of the most historical, cultured and romantic destinations in the world means you won’t be disappointed, whether you are in Rome to enjoy the excellent food or to explore the ancient and historical sites situated all over the city. If you’re over for a limited time, such as a weekend, you might find yourself overwhelmed by all the things you want to see and do. To make sure you don’t miss out on the experience of Rome, here is my 3-day itinerary for Rome.

Day 1

Visit the Vatican

Known for being the home of ancient Roman sculptures and Renaissance artwork by Raphael and Michelangelo the Vatican is definitely a bucket-list experience when you go to Rome. Experience the St. Peters Basilica and the world-famous Vatican museum before you finish up the experience with plenty of time to roam St. Peter’s Square out front.

If you want to beat the crowds make sure to get there early. You can also take a guided tour that will let you skip past the line.

Have lunch in the Angel Castle – Castel Sant’Angelo

Castel Sant’Angelo was initially commissioned by the Roman Emperor Hadrian and was later used by the popes as a fortress and castle but is now a museum with a beautiful view over the city. There is also a small restaurant inside the Castle with a beautiful view where you can enjoy lunch or just a drink and a gelato.

Wander around the Piazza Navona

Walk back across the river and you’ll find the Piazza Navona, this lively place is perfect for people-watching and for having your daily gelato.

Take in the ancient beauty of the Pantheon

The Pantheon is one of the only ancient sites that has survived and is still intact and is definitely a sight that you can not miss while you’re in Rome. The architecture is so impressive and imagining that this construction was built nearly 2000 years ago will blow your mind.

Day 2

Have breakfast in Piazza del Popolo

This large urban square is the perfect place to start off your day by listening to street artists performing and enjoying a cup of coffee in the morning sun.

Have a break from the sun on the Spanish Steps
Located close to a large shopping street the Spanish Steps is the perfect place to take a break from window shopping before heading further down the streets towards the Trevi Fountain.

Toss a coin in the Trevi Fountain
The Trevi Fountain is an iconic landmark in Rome and no trip would be complete without tossing a coin in the fountain. The legend says that if you toss a coin in the Trevi Fountain you ensure your return to the Eternal City.

Have a lunch break from the crowds at a classic Italian Restaurant
Have a break from the busy sightseeing life by having a traditional Italian meal. The food in Italy is very different from which region you visit in Italy and Rome is known to be the Queen of spaghetti carbonara.

Explore the massive site of Piazza Venezia
After a refreshing meal and maybe some more gelato you’re ready to take on the Piazza Venezia. This huge square is home to the Alter of the Fatherland or the Vittorio Emanuele II Monument. If you climb the stairs and explore the monument you’ll have a magnificent view of the city and some great photo opportunities.

Day 3

Take a tour of the Colosseum
Day three is the day to go back in time to ancient Rome. The Colosseum is such a bucket list experience when you’re in Rome. It is the largest amphitheatre ever built and is situated right next to the Roman Forum.

Explore the Roman Forum
Walk in the footsteps of the ancient Romans and explore the ruins in the Roman Forum where you will get an idea of what life was like back in the times of ancient Rome.

Climb up on Palatine Hill
Make your way further up to the Palatine Hill situated inside the Roman Forum and wander the streets and gardens as Julius Caesar once did. This is the place where the Imperial palaces once stood and you can still see many of the buildings left.