Wondering how to spend 3 days in Rome? Explore everything this ancient city has in store on this itinerary to help you plan your next trip to Italy. This itinerary will take you through the ancient ruins of the Colosseum, the stunning Baroque architecture, and the spiritual heart of Catholicism and help you make the most of your 3 days in Rome. Explore all kinds of hidden gems and have an absolutely unforgettable time with your friends and family as you journey through this beautiful city.
Day 1: Explore Ancient Rome
Start your trip by stepping back in time and visiting Rome as it was in its glory days. Here are some of the best places to visit in Rome.
Colosseum
Get ready to be mesmerised by the beauty and magnificence of the Colosseum. To fully enjoy your visit, you can opt for a guided tour. During the tour, knowledgeable guides will take you on a journey through time to ancient Rome, where you’ll learn all about the fascinating world of gladiators, chariot races, and other incredible spectacles that took place in the Colosseum. You’ll also discover the amazing engineering that went into building this iconic landmark.
Roman Forum
Just a few steps away from the Colosseum you’ll find the Roman Forum which is a bustling centre of activity that had played a significant role in politics, religion, and society during ancient times. As you explore the temples, government buildings, and basilicas, you’ll learn more about this country and its rich history and culture and learn to acknowledge its beauty. So, make sure not to skip the Roman Forum during your travels.
Palatine Hill
Climb up the beautiful Palatine Hill, once home to Rome’s most wealthy people. From up here, you can enjoy breathtaking views of the entire city. This sight has inspired poets and artists for centuries and will continue to do so in the future. While you are there, you can immerse yourself in the history of the place and take in the amazing view of both ancient ruins and modern buildings that make up this eternal city’s skyline.
Trastevere
Stroll through the winding streets of Trastevere as the sun sets. It is a neighborhood filled with history, art, and creativity. Trastevere was once home to artists and craftsmen and still maintains its bohemian charm with its brightly colored buildings and secret gardens. Also, taste authentic Roman cuisine at a traditional trattoria, where they use fresh, locally sourced ingredients and prepare delicious, centuries-old recipes. Each dish is a piece of culinary heritage passed down through generations.
Day 2: Discover Rome’s Baroque Beauty
Dedicate the second day to exploring Rome’s architectural beauties of Baroque Rome, where every street and corner is filled with masterpieces of Baroque artistry, like elegant fountains and grand churches decorated with exquisite frescoes and sculptures.
Piazza Navona
Start your day by visiting the famous Piazza Navona, which is an incredible architectural marvel that displays the Fountain of the Four Rivers created by Bernini, and the majestic Church of Sant’Agnese in Agone. The square is always full of life and street performers and artisans can be seen showing their many talents here. So, lose yourself here and enjoy exhibitions of history, art, and culture.
Pantheon
You can continue your adventure and visit the amazing Pantheon. It is an ancient building that shows us a perfect blend of engineering and spirituality. You can stand in and appreciate its huge dome, which is an incredible piece of architecture that has survived for centuries. You’ll be stunned by the beautiful light and shadow patterns that dance across its vast interior, creating a breathtaking experience.
Trevi Fountain
Next, you can visit the famous Trevi Fountain, a gorgeous masterpiece that attracts visitors from everywhere around the world. You can relax here, listen to the soothing sound of water in the enchanting atmosphere, and witness people laughing and chatting all around you. Don’t forget to participate in a timeless tradition by throwing a coin into the fountain’s crystal-clear waters. This will not only ensure your return to Rome, but it will also keep the eternal charm of this magical city alive.
Spanish Steps
Arguably the prettiest staircase you’ll ever see, the Spanish Steps are steps that connect the Trinita dei Monti church with the Piazza do Spagna. The steps weren’t just made for convenience; they were designed and crafted by Francesco de Sanctis, the famous 18th-century architect. The beauty of the staircase has always captivated the attention of many throughout history. Poets have written about them, and artists have immortalized them on canvas. In spring, the staircase also gets decorated with beautiful and colorful seasonal flowers, making the steps look even better.
Borghese Gallery
Where else are you going to find creations by artists like Bernini, Raphael, and Caravaggio other than the magnificent Borghese Gallery? A 17th-century villa was turned into a gallery, and its great halls are now home to all the masterpieces. The whole gallery is dedicated to the country’s best artists. So, if you are an art buff, you must check out this amazing place. It is a true art lover’s paradise.
Day 3: Take a Spiritual Journey to Vatican City
The best way to end your Roman itinerary for 3 days is by taking a spiritual journey in the smallest country in the world, Vatican City. The home of the Pope is also home to some amazing places worth seeing.
The Vatican Museums
This is the second-most visited museum in the world and is home to some of the most amazing artwork ever created throughout history. The Vatican Museums have 20,000 works of art on display, and many of them come from the wonderful Renaissance period. The museums also house ancient artifacts of historical significance. You are going to be mesmerized through your whole trip here. There is also some amazing literature that sheds light on the Roman Catholic Church and the Papacy throughout history. There are many galleries in the museum, so plan carefully on what route to follow.
Sistine Chapel
The most important part of the Vatican Museum’s route, the Sistine Chapel is Michelangelo’s and Raphael’s canvas. The altar wall and the ceiling were painted by Michelangelo, and it is here that you will see some of the world’s most famous artworks that depict the stories and characters in the Bible. While the world adores the creation of Adam, the Last Judgement on the altar wall is one of the most stunning pieces of art in the world. After witnessing the whole, you will realize why the world still considers artists like Michelangelo and Raphael some of the greatest artists to ever exist.
St. Peter’s Basilica
Regarded by many as the most beautiful church in the world, the St. Peter’s Basilica holds the tomb of St. Peter, making it one of the region’s most important churches. The church’s architecture is a great example of Renaissance architecture. The church has been through several renovations with many architects, including Bernini and Michelangelo, implementing their own visions on the structure. Today, the church stands as testament to the design and architectural brilliance of the past masters. The church also holds many works of art that are on display. Once you are done being awed by the massive interiors, you can head to the giant dome to get panoramic views of the country and the gardens.
Castel Sant’Angelo
Previously a mausoleum, then a fortress, a castle and now a museum, the Castel Sant’Angelo has received many redefinitions over the years. If it could speak, this mighty structure would have many stories to tell the world. Castel Sant’Angelo was also the tallest building of its time; hence, it gathered a lot of attention throughout history. It is still popular, as the museum holds some wonderful sculptures and statues of significance. This place is a great touring destination and will surprise you.
Campo de’ Fiori
End your last day in Rome by enjoying the wonderful setting of Campo de’ Fiori town. The town’s square is always alive, with many street performers entertaining large crowds and colorful stalls selling unique wares. After some retail indulgences, you should have some gastric indulgences of pizza and pasta for which Campo de’ Fiori is famous. Have a great time here, and move on to another Italian city with fond memories of Rome.
Your trip to Rome is sure to be full of history, art, and culture. From the ancient ruins of Rome to the beautiful Vatican City, you are sure to have an unforgettable time here every day and hopefully, this itinerary will help you plan and make the most of your time here in this beautiful city. So, plan your vacation now because it is the best time to visit Rome.
