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Rome is one of the most beautiful cities globally, with the most significant number of monuments, squares, churches, attractions, and artworks. Certainly, more than three days in Rome is needed to see everything the city has to offer, but it’s enough to see all the highlights if you manage your time effectively.
Things to Know Before Planning a 3 Day Visit to Rome
Here is the best itinerary for travelers who have only three days in Rome:
Day 1
- 06:30 – 07:00: Breakfast
- 07:00 – 09:00: Visit Piazza Venezia and Il Vittoriano
- 09:00 – 11:00: Explore Capitoline Hill and Capitoline Museums
- 11:00 – 12:30: Visit Basilica di Santa Maria in Ara Coeli and Roman Forum
- 12:30 – 14:30: Lunch
- 14:30 – 16:00: Tour the Colosseum
- 16:00 – 17:00: Explore Palatine Hill
- 17:00 – 18:00: Visit Circus Maximus
- 18:00 – 19:00: Visit Aventine Hill and Orange Garden
- 19:00 – 20:00: Dinner
- 20:00 – 21:00: Visit the Jewish Ghetto and Trastevere
We recommend starting your first day in Rome directly from the city center: Piazza Venezia. The most famous monument is dedicated to King Victor Emmanuel II, the first king of Italy, and is called Il Vittoriano. It is also referred to as the Altar of the Fatherland (Altare della Patria), made from white marble in 1911.
Inside, there is a military museum and terrace with views of Rome.
Moreover, the monument is known as “The Wedding Cake” or “The Giant Typewriter” and features statues, frescoes, columns, and majestic staircases. The monument was highly criticized for clashing with the existing architecture surrounding it. Additionally, to create such a massive building, the government destroyed many ruins, medieval churches, and properties on the northern part of Capitoline Hill.
Turn to the right, and you will see the large white staircase. So, it’s time to visit one of the 7 ancient hills of Rome: Capitoline Hill. Michelangelo designed the famous Piazza del Campidoglio (Capitoline square), and today, you can find the most ancient museums in the world: the Capitoline Museums. If you like art and history or want to see the famous statue of the Capitoline Wolf, you should visit the Capitoline Museums!
On the same hill, you can visit the Basilica di Santa Maria in Ara Coeli, one of the most beautiful Roman basilicas from the 17th century. Then, go down from another side of the hill, and you will appear on the Via dei Fori Imperiali.
The Roman Forum (Foro Romano) was the center of civic and economic life in Republican times and the Imperial period. The Via Sacra crossed the site, which led to Capitoline Hill and served as the route of the triumphal parades of victorious generals laden with loot and accompanied by rows of prisoners.
According to historians, people first began public meetings in the open-air Forum around 500 BC.
Now you are so close to the worldwide famous Colosseum, which is the symbol of Rome. The Colosseum was created around A.D. 70-72 by Emperor Vespasian of the Flavian dynasty as a gift to the Roman people. After, in A.D. 80, Vespasian’s son Titus opened this massive construction for 100 days of games with gladiatorial combats and wild animal fights. At that time, the Colosseum was known as the Flavian Amphitheater. People actively used it for four centuries, but in the 18th century, the arena became a source of building materials.
Right in front of the Colosseum is Palatine Hill. The significance of Palatine Hill is that the Roman Empire was founded there under the direction of Romulus. It is the site of the Lupercal Cave, where, according to the legend, Romulus and Remus were found by the she-wolf Lupa, who raised them. Now, it is a symbol of Rome.
If you want to go inside the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill, you should buy tickets in advance. Read instructions on how to buy tickets here.
If you go on outside along the hill, you will come to Circus Maximus. The Circus Maximus (in Italian Circo Massimo) is the giant racetrack of ancient Rome, situated on the left bank of the Tiber River, between the Palatine and Aventine hills, near the center of the modern city.
The next stop is the Aventine Hill, which is also one of the 7 ancient hills of Rome. The legend recounts that Romulus planned to build a city on Palatine Hill, and his brother Remus thought Aventine Hill was a better place to construct a city. According to the myth, the brothers’ disagreement led Romulus to kill Remus. Then, he started to build Rome on Palatine Hill. Moreover, he didn’t include the Aventine Hill inside the wall of the Ancient City.
The hill is presently an exquisite private part of Rome with a wealth of structural interest, counting palaces, churches, and gardens, such as the Basilica of Santa Sabina and the Rome Rose Garden.
The Aventine Hill is one of the best places to enjoy beautiful views of Rome while being away from the noise of the city center.
The Orange Garden (Giardino degli Aranci) is considered one of the most romantic places in Rome. It has one of the most beautiful observation decks with views of the Eternal City and the Vatican. Moreover, local street musicians usually accompany the romantic atmosphere. Don’t be surprised if someone proposes to their significant other during your visit to this charming park. The Orange Garden is like a magnet to all couples and groups of friends who want to enjoy their time in such a wonderful atmosphere without being in a hurry. This place is perfect for visiting during the early morning or sunset time.
- If you explore Rome on the weekend, then after the hill, I recommend visiting one of the city’s best farmers’ markets: Campagna Amica.
The next stop is the famous monument of the Mouth of Truth. An ancient image is carved in a round Pavonazzo marble (Italian: Marmo pavonazzetto) slab. The gloomy face of an unknown god is set in the portico of the church of Santa Maria in Cosmedin. The church is located on the left bank of the Tiber River, a contemporary area of ancient Roman buildings. Scientists believe that the place is about 2,200 years old, and the Romans are convinced that it is impossible to tell a lie under the stern gaze of the mask!
Now let’s go back closer to Piazza Venezia, where on your way, you will meet a construction that is similar to the Colosseum but much smaller. The Theater of Marcellus (Teatro di Marcello) is a structure that Julius Caesar started to construct. It was finished by Augustus and dedicated to his favorite nephew Marcellus. The building is one of the ancient examples of entertainment venues that were important for Romans.
From Marcello Theater starts the next stop, which is the Jewish Ghetto. The Jewish Ghetto is one of Rome’s most beautiful but less known attractions. The neighborhood has a rich history. It is full of boutique stores and kosher restaurants alongside historic buildings.
The Ghetto was established in 1555 in the Rione Sant’Angelo, in the southern part of Campo de’ Fiori. It was Pope Paul IV who ordered the construction of the neighborhood. It had borders over a Papal Bull and different discriminatory laws about the kinds of professions that Jews could or could not do. One of the most typical professions was selling fish, so the old fish market was located in the Ghetto. Moreover, the area has one of the highest property prices in Rome. Because of all prohibitions and obligations, the Jews became traders of clothing and businessmen in the field of loans.
It is time to have a break. Trastevere is one of the best neighborhoods in Rome to try excellent Italian plates and desserts. Thus, I recommend you read an article about the best restaurants in Trastevere.
- Note: During your stay in Trastevere, be sure to visit the Basilica of St. Mary in Trastevere and the observation deck on the Janiculum hill (Piazzale Garibaldi).
Day 2
- 06:30 – 07:00: Breakfast
- 07:00 – 09:00: Walk through Villa Borghese Gardens
- 09:00 – 10:30: Visit Borghese Gallery
- 10:30 – 11:00: Explore Piazza del Popolo
- 11:00 – 12:30: Tour Spanish Steps
- 12:30 – 14:30: Lunch
- 14:30 – 15:30: Visit Trevi Fountain
- 15:30 – 17:00: Explore Pantheon and Via del Corso
- 17:00 – 18:00: Visit Piazza Navona
- 18:00 – 19:00: Explore Campo de’ Fiori
- 19:00 – 20:00: Dinner
- 20:00 – 21:00: Visit Largo di Torre Argentina
If we mainly visited monuments from the Roman Empire period on the first day, the second day will primarily be dedicated to monuments from the Renaissance and later. We will start from the Villa Borghese gardens. If you are interested in art and history, you should visit the Borghese Gallery, the most extensive private art collection. This is where you can admire the artworks of Raphael, Bernini, Titian, and Caravaggio.
- Note: You have to book tickets to the gallery in advance.
If you are not interested in art, I suggest walking around one of Rome’s most beautiful and biggest parks (Villa Borghese). Right near the park is Piazza del Popolo. Piazza del Popolo is where foreigners arrived in the city during the Empire era. The church of Santa Maria del Popolo is on the left side of the square, which was rebuilt by Baccio Pontelli and Andrea Bregno between 1472 and 1477. The church hosts paintings and sculptures by Caravaggio, Pinturicchio, Carracci, Raffaello, Bernini, and Bramante.
Then, it will take less than 10 minutes to reach the Spanish square. Next, you will see the Spanish Steps, an unusual architectural gimmick, considered one of Rome’s top attractions. This sightseeing is one of the unmatched architectural landmarks of Rome. Wide baroque steps attract thousands of visitors and provide primary inspiration to cinematographers and artists. In addition, such modern fashion houses as Prada, Dolce & Gabbana, Bulgari, and Dior prefer to place their boutiques within easy reach of this marvelous construction.
The next stop is one of the most beautiful fountains globally, the Trevi Fountain. Guests of the Italian capital flock to the sightseeing to admire breathtaking views and accomplish a compulsive ritual. They turn back onto the fountain and throw the coins over their shoulder. By throwing coins to the feet of Goddesses, one can expect their mercifulness.
More often, awestruck travelers throw in the fountain more than one coin in hopes of finding the one and returning to Italy and Rome again. By the way, tourists in Rome leave about 1500 Euro in the crystal clear water of the Trevi Fountain every day, which is a lovely revenue that amounts to more than a million Euro per year!
Now let’s visit one of the most famous buildings from the ancient Roman Empire, the Pantheon. On your way to the Pantheon, you will cross one of the main shopping streets of Rome: Via del Corso.
- Note: I recommend choosing a hotel in the Pantheon area, which is the most central and convenient. Read about the best hotels near the Pantheon.
The Pantheon is an ancient temple dedicated to the Roman gods and embodies the greatness of the Roman Empire. It is assumed that it was built in 2 A.D. in place of another temple that Marcus Agrippa built in 27 B.C. Nowadays, you will find this ancient crowning glory at Piazza della Rotonda.
Ten minutes walk from the Pantheon is the famous Piazza Navona. It is undoubtedly one of the most refined squares and bright corners in Rome. In ancient times, the athletic stadium was located on this spot of urban land, and Romans watched the “agones” or the “games.” That is why Piazza Navona was previously known as “Circus Agonalis” or “competition arena.” Nowadays, guests of the Italian capital can visit the majestic baroque fountains and medieval temples.
Time for a break? Nearby Piazza Navona is Campo de’ Fiori square, with charming bars and restaurants. It is an excellent option to make a short stop for a drink.
Today, you can find a daily market on the square and enjoy the freshest fruits and vegetables. Moreover, there are many different flowers that you can buy along the piazza. At sunset, Campo de’ Fiori transforms into a legendary nightlife haunt. Many locals and tourists come here for a pre-party, visit one of the local restaurants, or enjoy hookah in a shisha place. The piazza and streets nearby are full of young people in the evening. Moreover, many famous gelaterias are located nearby Campo de’ Fiori.
Near Campo de’ Fiori is where more than 200 cats live! Now it is time to visit Largo di Torre Argentina. Largo di Torre Argentina is one of the ancient Roman sites with a famous cat sanctuary in Rome. Moreover, this is the place where they killed Julius Caesar.
After Largo Argentina, you can easily reach Trastevere, the best option if you are already hungry.
Day 3
- 06:30 – 07:00: Breakfast
- 07:00 – 09:00: Visit St. Peter’s Basilica
- 09:00 – 10:00: Climb St. Peter’s Dome
- 10:00 – 11:30: Tour Vatican Museums
- 11:30 – 12:30: Visit Sistine Chapel
- 12:30 – 14:30: Lunch
- 14:30 – 15:30: Explore St. Peter’s Square
- 15:30 – 17:00: Visit Castel Sant’Angelo
- 17:00 – 18:00: Walk across the Bridge of Angels
- 18:00 – 19:00: Free time for souvenirs or relaxing
- 19:00 – 20:00: Dinner
Of course, it is impossible to imagine a visit to Rome without the Vatican. However, on this day, we will start in the early morning. The best time to meet near the St Peter’s Basilica is 7 am, right at the time of its opening.
I recommend you watch our video about the visit to Saint Peter’s Basilica.
Moreover, climbing to the top of the cupola (dome) of Saint Peter’s Basilica is one of the main attractions during your Roman holiday since it is the highest point of Rome, located on the territory of the Vatican. The dome opens at 7:30 am, and you need to clear St Peter’s Cathedral security check before climbing. After the security check, look right; you will find a sign directing you to the kiosk with tickets for the dome.
It will take about 3-4 hours to visit Saint Peter’s Square, the basilica, and its dome. Then, on the basilica roof, you can take a break for breakfast with coffee. Later, we will go to the famous Vatican Museums!
The Vatican Museums (Musei Vaticani) are Christian art museums inside the Vatican City. Throughout the centuries, popes gathered masterpieces in this impressive collection. Moreover, the collection includes Roman sculptures and works of art known worldwide as the Renaissance.
The museums contain almost 70,000 works, where 20,000 of them are on display.
Entry to the historical museum costs 17 euros (+4 euros for the reservation if you book tickets online). It is always good to plan your trip and book tickets online because thousands of visitors want to visit the art museum daily. Usually, queues at ticket desks are endless. Also, 640 people work in 40 different administrative, scholarly, and restoration departments.
The museum exhibits 54 galleries (sale), including the Sistine Chapel, and is one of the largest museums in the world.
After the Vatican Museums, we will visit the Castel Sant’Angelo and the Roman Bridge of Angels. The Mausoleum of Hadrian, usually known as Castel Sant’Angelo (Castle of the Holy Angel), has a grand view and impressive history. During its long existence, built at the dawn of Christianity on the banks of the Tiber, the cylindrical mausoleum was the last refuge for the Roman Emperor, the residence of pontiffs, a fortress, a prison, and later a museum and treasury.
There is a legend that says the Archangel Michael appeared above the mausoleum, putting his sword back into the sheath. Thus, the end of the plague in 590 AD was marked. To celebrate this, the Pope gave the mausoleum its present name.
If you have only 1 or 2 days in Rome, I recommend you watch a video about the top 30 main attractions of Rome:
