Are you looking for the perfect 3 Days in Rome itinerary? This is the ultimate list of the must-see in Rome on your three days in Rome!
Whether you are travelling with a group, as a couple or as an individual, finding the perfect itinerary for a 3-day stay in Rome can be a challenge.
3 Days in Rome Itinerary
Rome is one of the prettiest cities in Italy. We truly loved exploring this city and had sore feet (from all the walking and exploring) for days after.
Here is our three day Rome itinerary in an easy-to-follow breakdown:
Day 1: Roman Highlights
The first day of this itinerary focuses on three main highlights of Rome: the Trevi Fountain, the Pantheon, and the Colosseum.
These three iconic sites are within reasonable walking distance of each other, so they do not need to be done in the exact order shown below.
Since it is recommended to make reservations for your Colosseum tour ahead of time, it would be best to arrange this itinerary around your Colosseum tour.
Morning at the Trevi Fountain:
The Trevi Fountain is an iconic spot in Rome. Its fountains flood the piazza with romance and magic – and crowds.
The Trevi Fountain is packed with people, almost 100% of the time.
The best way to experience the full majesty of it without getting too distracted by the masses of tourists is to go as early as possible. (Or as late as possible.)
So, to start your Roman experience right, grab a quick snack at your hotel, hostel, or Airbnb, and head to the Trevi Fountain before breakfast.
Of course, grab a coin, turn your back towards the fountain, make a wish, and toss the coin over your shoulder.
Late Morning: The Colosseum
The Colosseum is the symbol of Rome. It is a huge, imposing structure full of history. It might be the most famous landmark in Italy.
In order to fully understand and appreciate the significance of this ancient building, it is recommended to get a guided tour.
However, if you want to save a little time and money, you can purchase audio guides upon entrance or read the informational signs around the building.
Afternoon: Roman Forum
The original Roma Forum was built in 500 B.C. Though only ruins are left today, they represent the incredible longevity of Rome.
Conveniently, the entrance is located very close to the Colosseum.
The Forum is a great option for before or after your Colosseum tour, especially if your tickets include a skip-the-line to both.
Early Evening: Palantine Hill
Finish off your day at the Palatine Hill, where emperors once lived in lavish palaces.
As the sun sets, the ancient ruins take on a golden hue, offering spectacular views over the Forum and Circus Maximus below.
The peaceful gardens provide a perfect retreat to reflect on Rome’s imperial past.
Day 2: Vatican City
To walk from Rome’s city center to Vatican City would take about an hour, so this is definitely a time to use public transportation.
Public transportation is not very expensive but can be pretty difficult to navigate. Taxis are a direct way to get there but can get very expensive.
Early Morning at Vatican Museums
The Vatican Museums are a series of museums, featuring art and artefacts collected by popes over the centuries, as well as rooms they lived and significant chapels.
It is easy to spend hours, or even a day, in the Vatican Museums because there is so much to see.
There is a short path through the museums, featuring less of the attractions, or a long path with more.
Either way, you will end up seeing the biggest draw to this extensive collection, the Sistine Chapel.
The fresco of the Sistine Chapel was painted by one of Italy’s many highly regarded artists, Michelangelo.
His genius production of biblical scenes on the ceiling of the chapel brings tourists from all across Italy, Europe, and the world.
Next Up is Saint Peter’s Basilica
Saint Peter’s Basilica houses an incredible display of Italian art. Not to mention, it is an incredible display of art on its own.
More than that, however, it is an honoured pilgrimage site for many of the Catholic faith.
Its architectural beauty, artistic collection, and spiritual significance make it a highly regarded place for visitors.
The lines to the basilica can get extremely long, but they typically move more quickly than expected.
In order to save time, however, there is always the option to pay to skip the line.
If you don’t mind the wait in line, entrance is free! Either way, you will be glad you took the time to see this incredible play of Italian art and spirituality.
Afternoon: Sant’Angelo
Cross the stunning Sant’Angelo Bridge to reach this fortress-turned-papal-palace, originally built as Emperor Hadrian’s tomb.
Inside, explore ornate papal apartments and climb to the terrace for breathtaking views of St. Peter’s Basilica and the winding Tiber River below.
Late Afternoon: Piazza Navona
End your day at Piazza Navona, where Bernini’s magnificent Fountain of the Four Rivers takes center stage.
As the sun sets, this elegant square comes alive with street artists, musicians, and locals enjoying aperitivo at the surrounding cafes.
Take in the baroque architecture and lively atmosphere while savoring a gelato or drink at one of the outdoor tables.
Day 3: Roman Gems
There are a number of Roman gems that you simply cannot miss out on, and they are of course the Spanish Steps, Villa Borghese and the extraordinary Pantheon:
Morning at the Spanish Steps
The Spanish Steps, like the Trevi Fountain, are full of tourists (and locals) most of the time.
The best way to find an easy path up the staircase is to go early in the morning or late at night.
If climbing the steps is not in the cards for you, it is also a great place to sit and relax. Either way, it is worth a stop to this famously beautiful piazza.
Late Morning at the Villa Borghese
Just an 11-minute walk from the Spanish Steps, there is the beautiful park of the Villa Borghese – the perfect location for an afternoon.
The Borghese Museum features sculptures on the first floor and paintings on the second.
The park is a beautiful attraction in its own right, with lovely gardens and a lake to enjoy.
There are also other museums and attractions within the villa worth checking out!
Afternoon at the Pantheon
The Pantheon is amazing for two reasons. One, the architecture is remarkable.
Built in 126 A.D., the skill in the structure of the dome was far ahead of its time.
The famous whole in the middle of the dome functions as a sundial, which acted as a giant natural clock for the ancient Romans.
The second thing that makes the pantheon so amazing is that it is the best-preserved ancient Roman structure.
Entrance to the Pantheon is free and no reservation is necessary. There is usually a line, but it moves fairly quickly.
If you would rather pay for a guided tour, it is possible to do so ahead of time.
Evening in Trastevere
End your Roman holiday in charming Trastevere, where ivy-covered buildings and cobblestone streets create Rome’s most atmospheric neighborhood.
Follow the locals to bustling piazzas and traditional trattorias, where you can savor your final evening among animated conversation and clinking wine glasses.
Helpful Hints:
If you are short on time, and three days is not what your itinerary allows, here is our 2 Days Rome Itinerary, or our Rome on a Weekend post here.
If you are travelling as a family, we also have plenty of information about what to see in Rome with your kids.
Check out the options for the best family accommodation in Rome here.
