3 Days in Rome: The Perfect Itinerary for First-Time Visitors
Hey there, fellow adventurer! Are you ready to take on the ancient city of Rome like a boss?
Well, hold on to your hat (or your gelato cone), because we’ve got a three-day itinerary that will have you living your best life in the eternal city.
We’re talking stunning architecture, mouth-watering food, and more gelato than you can shake a spoon at.
Prepare for a frenetic three-day immersion in which you will explore iconic places, travel within history, and discover the most spectacular places that have made Rome immortal.
So, pack your bags, bring your best walking shoes, and let’s get this Roman party started!
Day 1: Roman Sights and Bites
Colosseum and Roman Forum
Start your day like a true gladiator by heading to the Colosseum and Roman Forum. Hear the roar of the crowd as you explore the ancient ruins and imagine the battles that took place in this historic arena. Afterwards, grab some lunch at Da Enzo al 29, a cozy restaurant in the heart of Trastevere that serves delicious homemade pasta and traditional Roman dishes.
Capitoline Hill and Pantheon
After lunch, walk off the carbs by heading to the Capitoline Hill. Take in the breathtaking views of the city from the top of the hill and visit the Capitoline Museums to discover more about Rome’s fascinating history. Next, make your way to the Pantheon, a beautiful temple dedicated to all the gods, and marvel at its impressive dome. End your day with dinner at Roscioli, a gourmet restaurant that offers a wide selection of Italian cheeses, meats, and wines.
Trevi Fountain and Spanish Steps
Before calling it a night, don’t forget to throw a coin into the Trevi Fountain and make a wish. Then, climb the Spanish Steps to enjoy the view of the city at night.
Day 2: Vatican City and Trastevere
Vatican City
It’s time to meet the Pope! Start your day with a visit to Vatican City and explore its magnificent museums, the Sistine Chapel, and St. Peter’s Basilica. Don’t forget to book your tickets in advance to skip the line and consider hiring a guide to make the most of your visit. For lunch, head to Pizzarium, a trendy pizza joint that offers creative toppings and mouth-watering flavors.
Trastevere and Gianicolo Hill
In the afternoon, head to the picturesque neighborhood of Trastevere and stroll through its charming streets lined with colorful houses and artisan shops. Take a break at Pasticceria La Renella, a local bakery that serves some of the best pastries in town. Then, climb the Gianicolo Hill and enjoy the panoramic view of Rome.
Piazza Navona and Campo de’ Fiori
For dinner, head to Piazza Navona and admire its stunning Baroque fountains and street performers. Then, make your way to Campo de’ Fiori, a vibrant square that hosts a daily market selling fresh produce, flowers, and souvenirs. For a true Roman experience, dine at Osteria del Pegno, a cozy trattoria that serves delicious seafood and homemade pasta. If you prefer pizza, don’t worry, we have compiled a list of the best pizzerias in Rome, where you can eat excellent pizza.
Day 3: Art and Foodie Adventures
Borghese Gallery and Gardens
Get ready for some art appreciation by visiting the Borghese Gallery and Gardens. Admire masterpieces by Caravaggio, Bernini, and Raphael in this elegant villa surrounded by a lush park. For lunch, head to Galbi, a lovely, top notch Korean restaurant, where you can eat a delicious bibimbap or wide selection of Korean barbecue dishes.
Hostaria Romana represents a place of worship for all lovers of Roman cuisine, the traditional one made of carbonara, saltimbocca, tripe, and oxtail. Here you will find authentic and tasty dishes that will amaze you with the power of their flavors. There are no frills, just great quality.
Pizzarium Bonci, a spinoff of the popular Pizzarium that serves artisanal pizza with top-quality ingredients, is another great option.
Testaccio Market and Aventine Hill
In the afternoon, explore the lively Testaccio Market and taste some of the best Italian delicacies, such as cured meats, cheese and wine. Then, head to the Aventine Hill and stroll through its peaceful gardens and orange groves. Don’t miss the chance to peek through the famous keyhole at the headquarters of the Knights of Malta and enjoy the stunning view of St. Peter’s Basilica.
Trastevere Food Tour and Gelato Tasting
End your day on a high note with a food tour in Trastevere. Here you can find some of the best street food in the city, such as supplì, pizza al taglio, and gelato. Satisfy your sweet tooth with a gelato tasting at Fatamorgana, a gelateria that offers creative flavors and natural ingredients. If you want to try supplì, head to I Supplì. Located in the Trastevere neighborhood, I Supplì is a small, no-frills spot that specializes in traditional supplì. The supplì here is made with a simple but delicious combination of rice, tomato sauce, and mozzarella, and it’s served piping hot and crispy.
Say “salute” to a Roman holiday to remember!
FAQs
- What is the best time of year to visit Rome?
- The best time to visit Rome is from April to June or from September to November, when the weather is mild and the crowds are smaller.
- Do I need to book tickets in advance for the Colosseum and Vatican City?
- Yes, it’s highly recommended to book tickets in advance for both attractions to avoid long lines and ensure availability.
- Can I visit the Pantheon for free?
- Yes, the Pantheon is free to visit, but keep in mind that it can get crowded.
- What is the dress code for visiting the Vatican?
- Visitors to the Vatican are required to dress modestly, covering their shoulders and knees.
- Is tipping expected in restaurants in Rome?
- Tipping is not expected in restaurants in Rome, but it’s common to leave a small amount as a sign of appreciation for good service.