Welcome to Rome, the eternal city where history, art, and culture cover every corner. There is so much to see and do, and this perfect Rome 3-day itinerary will ensure you see it all.
This post may contain affiliate links, which means I’ll receive a commission if you purchase through my link, at no extra cost to you.
Rome is known as the Eternal City that has so much to offer from the ancient history to the spectacular art, and the vibrant culture. Every cobblestone street tells a unique story and has iconic landmarks, timeless charm, and lots to discover. This 3 day Rome itinerary will take you through these majestic streets and everything there is to explore.
Rome is filled with many wonderful iconic landmarks you have to see like the Roman Colosseum, the Roman Forum, Palatine Hill, Vatican City, the Vatican Museums, the Trevi Fountain, amazing dinner options, delicious gelato places, and much more.
Here you will discover the best Rome 3-day itinerary, the ultimate Rome itinerary, top attractions in Rome for 3 days, must-see sights in Rome in 3 days, the best Rome itinerary with Vatican City in 3 days, the ultimate Rome travel guide, and more.
This post is all about the best Rome 3-Day Itinerary.
The Ultimate 3-Day Rome Itinerary
Day 1 – The Colosseum, The Roman Forum And Palatine Hill, Vatican City, Vatican City Museums (St. Peter’s Basilica, The Sistine Chapel)
The Colosseum
Start your first day of your Rome 3-day itinerary by heading to the Colosseum right in the morning. Ancient Rome is most famous for the iconic Roman Colosseum. It was constructed by the Roman Empire many years ago. The Colosseum is an ancient amphitheater that was used for gladiator fights back in the day. The inside has a large arena in the center with viewpoints all around, The outside architecture is very unique and truly one-of-a-kind. The views from the inside are spectacular, and the stage is something that you have probably never seen before it is very unique and gives you a better picture of these gladiator fights. A must-see in Rome.
The Roman Forum And Palatine Hill
After exploring the amazing Colosseum, climb up to the top of Palatine Hill. Here you will get to see some of the best views of Rome including the Colosseum, the Ancient ruins below, and all the other stunning buildings this ancient city has. Palatine Hill is known as one of the seven hills of Rome and it is the oldest part of the city.
After enjoying the views from Palatine Hill, head to the bottom where you will see the Roman Forum. The Roman Forum is a plaza surrounded by ancient ruins and structures. The Forum is located in the center of Rome and was an open-air venue where speeches and battles took place back in the day.
Vatican City
Spend the afternoon visiting Vatican City and the Vatican City Museums. Vatican City is the world’s smallest country. The Vatican is landlocked and surrounded by the city of Rome. Vatican City is home to the Pope and is also known as the headquarters of the Roman Catholic Church. The architecture in the Vatican is truly one of a kind and also holds the Vatican museums filled with sculptures and paintings from famous artists.
St. Peter’s Basilica
St. Peter’s Basilica is located in Vatican City and is also one of the famous Museums of Vatican City. It is known as one of the holiest sites of Christianity and Catholic Tradition. This is also where St. Peter was buried. St Peter was the head of the 12 Apostles of Jesus. St. Peter’s Basilica also has smaller chapels, statues, tombs, and pieces of art inside.
Sistine Chapel
After exploring St. Peter’s Basilica head to the Sistine Chapel. The Sistine Chapel is located in the Vatican Palace. The Chapel is known for the amazing painted sealing done by Michelangelo. The most famous painting on the ceiling is the Creation of Adam. This is a must-see when visiting Vatican City.
Day 2 – The Trevi Fountain, The Pantheon, Piazza Navona, Dinner At Rosciolis
The Trevi Fountain
Start day 2 of your Rome 3-day itinerary by going to the Trevi Fountain right in the early morning. I would recommend going right in the morning because you will beat the huge crowds this way. The Trevi Fountain is another famous landmark in Rome, Italy. The legend holds that if you toss a coin into the fountain it will ensure a return to Rome. The fountain has s famous statue in the middle and is an iconic landmark in Rome as well.
The Pantheon
After taking in the stunning sights of the Trevi Fountain head to the Pantheon which is located very close. The Pantheon is the most preserved structure of Ancient Rome. The Pantheon was once a former temple and is now a Catholic church. The best part of the one-of-a-kind Pantheon is the dome that has a hole on top known as the oculus. The dome was the largest in the world for many many years and attracts visitors from all over the world.
Piazza Navona
Explore the Piazza Navona which is a beautiful square in the heart of Rome. It is filled with Baroque architecture, amazing fountains, and a laid-back atmosphere. The best part of Piazza Navona is the Fountain of the Four Rivers which is right in the centre. The fountain is truly a masterpiece and the focal point of the square. Surrounding the fountain are cafes, restaurants, bars, street performers, local artists, and fun energy. This beautiful square is also magical at night and a must-see.
Dinner At Rosciolis
After doing lots of walking around the Piazza Navona you need to enjoy an amazing dinner with traditional Italian cuisine. One of the best places to enjoy a nice dinner is at Rosciolis. This restaurant is a classic and has some of the best dishes you will find in Rome. Some popular dishes here include Carbonara Pasta, Spaghetti alla Gricia, and with many other amazing dishes. The restaurant also has an extensive wine selection that will leave you lost for words. Be sure to have a reservation here well in advance since it is a super popular and authentic place to eat in Rome.
Day 3 – The Spanish Steps, Villa Borghese Gardens, Trastevere, Traditional Italian Dinner, Gelato
The Spanish Steps
Start your last and final day of your Rome 3-day itinerary by heading to the Spanish Steps. The Spanish Steps are located at the Piazza di Spagna. The staircase is a popular tourist attraction but also has many locals that gather here as well. It has 135 steps and offers breathtaking views of the city. The staircase has beautiful terracotta pots of azaleas, which offer color and dispense a fragrance during the spring and summer months. At the bottom of the steps lies the Baraccia Fountain which is a great spot for some great photos. Just a great atmosphere altogether.
Villa Borghese Gardens
Enjoy a relaxed afternoon strolling through the Villa Borghese Gardens. These gardens are a lush oasis of tranquility and beauty away from the busy city center. The gardens were originally created during the 27th century for the Borghese family as their private estate, and later in the 20th century, they were transformed into a public park. The grounds feature pathways lined with beautiful trees, perfect-cut lawns, lakes with little boats, an art museum, a beautiful Villa, stunning sculptures, and one-of-a-kind masterpieces by Caravaggio, Bernini, and Raphael. You could also rent bikes, take a ride on a boat, play some golf or tennis, and enjoy many other activities here is the Villa Borghese Gardens.
Trastevere
After enjoying the Villa Borghese Gardens head to the Trastevere which is a vibrant neighborhood that a rich history, narrow cobblestone streets with lots of character, colorful facades, lively piazzas, and an authentic Rome atmosphere. The area is the central hub that is full of bustling markets, cafes, restaurants, bars, and a great nightlife scene. The nightlife scene here is full of live music, laughter, nightclubs, wine bars, great pizza places, pasta places, gelato bars, and so much more. Definitely a great way to end your trip to Rome.
Traditional Italian Cuisine
Finish off your last day of your Rome 3-day itinerary by enjoying some quality Italian cuisine. Italy is famous for many famous things including Italian Cuisine. The most popular dishes in Italy are pizza, pasta, charcuterie dishes, and gelato just to name a few. The pizza in Italy is truly one-of-a-kind, it is made with fresh thin-crust dough, homemade marinara sauce, and fresh ingredients grown locally.
Pasta is another food Italy is famous for. Italians like to make their noodles, sauces, and meatballs all from scratch. That’s why it tastes amazing every time.
Enjoy Some Gelato
After a traditional Italian dinner enjoy some delicious gelato. Italy is also famous for its very tasty gelato. Italian Gelato is very similar to American ice cream, the difference is that gelato contains more air than ice cream making it lighter in texture. Gelato has many flavors ranging from fruit flavors to nut flavors, to chocolate flavors, and many more. Italian Gelato is similar to ice cream but has a more prominent flavor and it is just delicious.
Where To Stay In Rome
A great place to stay while visiting Rome is the Palazzetto Trevi. It is a newly renovated guest house that is located in the center of Rome. The guest house offers city tours if you are interested. Also within walking distance of the Trevi Fountain.
Another great place to stay in Rome is the Roman Holidays Boutique Hotel. This hotel is located next to the Rome Metro Station and has great cozy and comfortable rooms, some even having a sauna and great city views. There is a breakfast option and is within walking distance of the Colosseum, the Trevi Fountain, the Roman Forum, and much more.
A great luxury hotel to stay at while in Rome is Palazzo Dama – Preferred Hotels & Resorts. This stunning hotel offers world-class service, an outdoor pool, a garden, and beautiful lemon trees, close to the Spanish Steps. The hotel also has a lounge bar, a great restaurant, amazing spacious rooms, and more. Also close to the metro, Villa Borghese, Trevi Fountain, Vatican Museums, and more.
This post was all about the best 3-Day Rome Itinerary.
Other posts you may like
>> 21 MOST POPULAR THINGS IN FRANCE
>> THE ULTIMATE LONDON EXPERIENCE: THE BEST 4 DAYS IN LONDON
