Filled with ancient wonders, delicious pasta, and Italian charm, Rome attracts travelers from around the world. This three-day Rome itinerary is perfect for first-time visitors and packs in major highlights like the Colosseum, Pantheon, Vatican City, and more. Besides, with the number of direct flights from the United States to Rome, odds are high you’ll be flying through the Eternal City to embark on your Italian adventure. Rome has captivated the world for centuries. So, why not spend a few days in one of the world’s most famous (and infamous) cities?
This Rome 3-Day Itinerary is ideal for first-time visitors. It’s full of highlights and will keep you moving all day long. If you want a more leisurely visit to the Eternal City, leave a few attractions out and enjoy relaxing at a café or spending more time at a monument that peaks your interest! Planning a trip to Italy? Explore more Italy Travel Guides.
Know Before You Go
- How to Get to Rome: Fly into Rome’s Leonardo da Vinci Fiumicino Airport (FCO). Coming from the United States, Rome is an easy destination to reach. American, United, and Delta all fly nonstop from numerous U.S. airports. Once you arrive, take the Leonardo Express Train from the airport to the city center. The Leonardo Express Train takes 30-minutes and costs about €14 per person. A taxi from the airport to the city center costs on average €60 and takes 30-minutes.
- Best Time to Visit: Rome is a good year-round destination, however, due to the sweltering heat and summer crowds I would avoid visiting in July and August. If you happen to visit during these months, take it easy during the hottest parts of the day. The absolute best times to visit Rome are in the spring (April & May) or fall (September & October) when the weather is ideal and the crowds are more manageable.
- Where to Stay in Rome: If it’s your first visit to Rome, stay in Centro Storico (the city’s historic center). This central location is close to many major attractions like the Trevi Fountain and Pantheon. If you don’t mind being further from the monuments, Trastevere is a charming neighborhood with more local vibes.
- How to Get Around: Expect to walk a lot in Rome. For longer distances, the best way to get around Rome is by using the Metro (a 3-day pass cost €18). Taxis are also readily available.
- Tips: Plan ahead! Attractions like the Colosseum and Vatican Museums regularly sell out so make sure to book tours and buy tickets in advance. Wear comfortable walking shoes. When in Rome, you’ll do a lot of walking so make sure to wear appropriate shoes.
Day One: Colosseum, Roman Forum, Pantheon
Start your time in the Eternal City by exploring Ancient Rome
Morning
Start your day by visiting the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill on a guided tour. Make sure to book a tour that includes the Colosseum’s Arena Floor and Underground. The Arena Floor, where gladiators once fought, is only accessible to a limited number of visitors with a guided tour each day. The Underground is the behind the scenes of the Colosseum—think narrow passages and cages underneath the massive structure. Visiting these areas is well worth it and gives you a unique experience of the Colosseum.
The Roman Forum was once the heart of Ancient Rome’s flourishing government and later became the epicenter of social, commercial, and religious life for the Western world. Navigate the remnants of massive stone structures as a knowledgeable guide shares stories and highlights key aspects of the expansive space. Perched on a hill overlooking the Roman Forum, Palatine Hill is described as the “birthplace of the Roman Empire” and is the home of ancient palaces.
Afternoon
After touring some of Italy’s most famous sites, stop for lunch and then head over to the Pantheon and Piazza Navona in Rome’s Centro Storico neighborhood. A former Roman Temple and Catholic Church dating back to 609 AD, the Pantheon is one of the best-preserved monuments in the world. Skip the line to enter the Pantheon by booking a ticket online in advance.
Not far from the Pantheon is Piazza Navona, one of Rome’s most beautiful squares set on what was once the Stadium of Domitian (built in the 1st century). The elongated space, complete with three fountains, is now a great example of Baroque Roman architecture.
Evening
As the sun goes down, continue exploring the Centro Storico neighborhood. Visit the Trevi Fountain or Spanish Steps and dine on delicious Italian cuisine. Some top-rated restaurants in this historic center include Hostaria de’ Pastini, Il Barroccio Roma, and Armando al Pantheon.
Day Two: Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel, St. Peter’s Basilica
Immerse yourself in the city-state & visit its iconic art
Morning
Get an early start exploring the Vatican City by starting at the Vatican Museums. The massive collection of museums house famous Roman sculptures and key pieces of Renaissance art, like the Sistine Chapel. The Vatican Museums are enormous, so it’s impossible to see everything they offer in a single visit. Plan to spend 3-4 hours here and focus on highlights like Raphael’s Rooms, Gallery of Maps, the Sistine Chapel, Gallery of the Statues, the Gregorian Egyptian Museum, and the Spiral Staircase. The museums open at 8:00 am and are closed on Sundays.
Afternoon
After wandering through the maze of museums, grab a bite to eat and visit the most famous church in the world, St. Peter’s Basilica. Head inside the UNESCO World Heritage Site and marvel at the architectural wonder and visit the papal tombs. I recommend climbing the Dome to take in the panoramic views. To do this, you’ll need to buy tickets in advance.
Evening
When you’re finished exploring the Vatican City, head to the beloved Trastevere neighborhood. Enjoy a leisurely dinner and meander the charming narrow streets of the lively neighborhood. Some top-rated restaurants in Trastevere are Le Mani In Pasta, Mozzichi, and Tonnarello Scala.
Day Three: Campo de’ Fiori, Trevi Fountain, Galleria Borghese, Capitoline Museums, or Cooking Class
Morning
Begin your final day in Rome at the famous outdoor market Campo de’ Fiori. Peruse the fresh produce and shop for souvenirs at the boutique shops. If you didn’t make it to the Trevi Fountain or Spanish Steps on day one, take in the fresh air and enjoy a leisurely walk to these iconic Rome attractions.
Afternoon
In the afternoon of your final day in Rome, do something tailored to your interests. The elegant Galleria Borghese and the Villa Borghese Gardens are perfect for art lovers. History buffs should visit the Capitoline Museums, known as the oldest museums in the world. Pasta-lovers can take an Italian Cooking Class. The options here are endless.
Evening
Head back to the vibrant Trastevere and spend your final evening relaxing at a wine bar or local pub and stroll along the Tiber River.
