Day 1 – Historic Center & Dolce Vita
🏛 The morning
Start at the Piazza del Popolo, Admire the obelisk and the fountains, then descend via the Via del Corso towards the Plaza de España and its famous staircases.
Tip: Opening hours vary, and sitting down may be prohibited (fines possible)..Continue towards the Trevi Fountain, Essential: throw in a coin to guarantee your return!
Then join the Pantheon, an ancient temple renovated into a basilica, free and majestic .
🍲 At noon
A stroll on the sumptuous Piazza Navona, a baroque jewel with Bernini's Fountain of the Four Rivers
Relax and have lunch at Campo de' Fiori, its colourful market and lively atmosphere
✨ The afternoon
Cross over to Trastevere, charming bohemian quarter, its cobbled streets and typical trattorias (the Basilica of Santa Maria in Trastevere is a must-see)
Go up to the terrace of the’Aventine (Terrazza del Belvedere) for a panoramic view of Rome and the dome of St. Peter's
🌇 The evening
Enjoy a traditional pasta dish (carbonara, cacio e pepe) in one of the typical restaurants like Tonnarello or Meridonale (Trastevere)
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Day 2 – Antiquity & Roman Art
🏛 The morning
Visit early Coliseum, Book your skip-the-line tickets as soon as possible: this is the heart of ancient Rome.
Continue in the Roman Forum and go up to Palatine, mythical hills of the founding of Rome
🍲 At noon
Explore the Baths of Caracalla, impressive remains of Roman public spaces
If time allows, follow a section of the Via Appia Antica for a peaceful, timeless atmosphere .
✨ The afternoon
Stroll through the gardens of the Villa Borghese, Enjoy the museums or simply the view from the Pincio
🌇 The evening
For dinner, choose a restaurant with a view (e.g., The Court) or chill in a trattoria.
Recommended cocktails Jerry Thomas Project for a chic and local atmosphere
Day 3 – Vatican City & North Shore
🏛 The morning
Start early at the St. Peter's Basilica, Climb onto the dome for the view (€10).
Continuation – Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel
Explore the Vatican Museums, the famous Sistine Chapel and the Raphael Rooms.
Tip: Skip-the-line tickets are recommended
🍲 At noon
Walk to the Castel Sant'Angelo, former mausoleum of Hadrian with superb view from the top and walk on the adjoining bridge
✨ The afternoon
Head to quieter neighborhoods like Monti or Sant'Angelo for crafts, galleries and cafes.
Possible return to Trastevere for a last drink on the terrace
🌇 The evening
Enjoy a Roman dinner (spritz, pasta, gelato). Choose a friendly and festive atmosphere, perfect for concluding.
Practical information & good deals
Transportation Efficient metro/tram and local buses. Consider the Roma Pass 48/72h (including transport + 1-2 sites).
Ticket Office : Book in advance: Colosseum, Vatican, Baths… Skip the queue recommended.
Best time : Spring and early autumn: mild climate, less crowded.
Avoid : The first Sunday of the month is free: increased crowds, especially at major sites.
Gastronomy : Avoid tourist traps: opt for local trattorias and markets like Campo de' Fiori.
Attire and Culture : Shoulder/leg coverings are required in churches. Italians appreciate neat attire.
Rome in 3 days is a complete immersion: from Antiquity to the Renaissance, from the sacred to the dolce vita, not forgetting authentic Italian cuisine. You'll return with vivid memories, a light heart, and in love with the Italian capital.
After Rome, come and visit Milan in 3 days!
Or another European city:
FAQ
Is it possible to visit the Colosseum and the Vatican in the same day?
It's possible, but very busy. To fully enjoy each site, it's recommended to visit them over two separate days. If you're in a hurry, opt for skip-the-line tickets.
Which neighborhood should I choose to stay in during a short trip to Rome?
The historic center (Pantheon, Piazza Navona), Monti or Trastevere are perfect for 3 days: close to the main sites, lively and full of charm.
