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With iconic sights, amazing Italian food and ancient ruins, Rome, Italy is a must-see European destination. Spending 3 days in Rome is just enough time to experience the highlights – but only with a good travel plan. Don’t worry; we’ve got it covered. We have created an ideal 3-Day Rome Itinerary that is packed with top attractions, delectable eats, sightseeing tips and city tour advice!
Planning 3 Days in Rome Itinerary
We think The Eternal City should be on every Italy Itinerary; the fascinating history, beautiful architecture and incredible food make the city one of the best in the world. That said, planning what to do in Rome for 3 days is not an easy task.
Rome is a sprawling metropolis. Ancient attractions and must-see neighborhoods are far flung, which can make planning an efficient Rome 3-Day Itinerary somewhat of a conundrum. However, with proper planning it’s possible to experience the best of the city in 72 hours – and we’ll show you how! Our 3-Day Itinerary for Rome features the must-see sights and few hidden gems as well.
First Time Rome Trips
Our first Rome trip was a quick 2-day adventure – and we mostly stuck to the historic center, ticking off checklist sights. While we were able to see a lot, we quickly realized that spending 3 days in Rome, Italy would have been exponentially better!
On a return trip, we met up with family who were sightseeing Rome for the first time. They were on a longer London, Paris, Rome tour – and we were able to join them in Rome for 3 days. Using our knowledge from our first visit we created an ideal First Time in Rome Itinerary.
For our time exploring together, we designed the best 3 Day Rome Itinerary that featured historic sights, remarkable districts and lots of delicious food and gelato! We are now sharing that outlined itinerary to help fellow travelers who are planning a trip to Rome.
Visiting Rome in 3 Days Itinerary Summary
With three days in Rome, travelers have time to take in the best attractions. The Rome highlights we include in our itinerary are: Ancient Roman Ruins, Vatican City sights and picturesque Rome neighborhoods.
During the first day of the trip, travelers visit the Colosseum, the Forum, the Pantheon and more top sights that are located in the heart of the time-honored city.
On the second day of our Rome Three Day Itinerary, visitors step inside St. Peter’s Basilica, look up at the world-famous Sistine Chapel and visit Castle Sant’Angelo – then end the day on a fantastic food tour.
The last day of the trip features two of the best places to visit in Rome: the beautiful Villa Borghese and the fun Trastevere district.
About this 3 Day Itinerary for Rome
Our Rome trip plan is organized in a day-by-day outline. For each sight, we include a brief description and tips for visiting. Additionally, we offer a lunch and dinner recommendation for each day. Along with our list of things to see in Rome in 3 days, we include all of the sights on a Rome Three Day Itinerary Map.
We group the best sights together in order to create an easy-flowing 3-day tour of Rome. However, when planning what to do in Rome in 3 days there is more to consider than just the sights. Visitors also need to know how to get around, where to stay and what to pack – which is all information we include at the end of our 3 Perfect Days in Rome Itinerary!
Organize Your Trip to Europe
When planning what to see and do in Rome, Italy, organization is key. Use our Travel Planning Printables to keep track of all the details of your vacation to Rome!
3 DAYS IN ROME ITINERARY
Are you ready to visit all the great sights in Rome? Alright, let’s get started with the best things to do in Rome in 3 days.
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DAY 1 – Roman Ruins and Iconic Rome Sights
Any Rome travel itinerary wouldn’t be complete without touring the 2,000-year-old ruins and ancient sights – so that is where we start our adventure!
Morning in Ancient Rome
Start your 72 hours in Rome sightseeing the oldest and most impressive areas: Palatine Hill, Roman Forum and The Colosseum. These three sights can be visited on a combination Palatine-Forum-Colosseum ticket. It’s best to buy it online in advance from the official Parco Archeologico del Colosseo website.
Note that the for the purpose of this 3 Day Rome Trip Plan, it is best to buy the 24-hour Combo ticket. When purchasing the ticket, choose the time that you want to enter the Colosseum, but plan on visiting Palatine Hill and the Roman Forum first.
Expect to spend about 3 hours total at the three historic Roman places. To time your Colosseum entry, plan a combined 1.5 to 2 hours at Palatine Hill and the Forum.
Palatine Hill
Palatine Hill is one of the Seven Hills of Rome and one of the oldest parts of the city. The elevated settlement overlooks Circus Maximus and the Roman Forum. While little remains of the original structures, visitors can see the outline of the grand palaces that once stood there and take in the incredible vantage points.
Pro Tip: With your Combo Ticket purchased in advance, use the Palatine Hill entrance (30 Via di San Gregorio).
Roman Forum
A must-see in Rome, the Forum was once the city center. Today, only pieces of columns, temples and buildings remain in the 2,000-year-old Forum. Walk along the ‘streets’ where it feels a bit like stepping back in time.
Pro Tip: Palatine Hill and the Roman Forum are connected; so there is no need to exit Palatine Hill and re-enter the Forum, simply use the path that leads to Arco di Tito (Arch of Titus).
The Colosseum
The city’s most iconic sight, the Colosseum, was built in the year 80 AD. The 2,000-year-old amphitheater was used for Gladiator fights, which entertained crowds of 50,000 people.
Pro Tip: While the basic combo ticket allows access into the Colosseum, there is little additional information once inside – and the arena, underground and stage are off limits with the basic combo ticket. You can book Colosseum Tours that include a guide and access to normally restricted areas.
Lunch at Pizzeria della Madonna dei Monti
When you leave the Colosseum, walk along the famous Via Dei Fori Imperiali Road. The historic street is lined with ancient structures and grand architecture. The Roman Forum sits on the south side of the street – and on the north is the Forum of Augustus, Trajan’s Forum and Column and the Mercati di Traiano Museum.
Now make your way to Pizzeria della Madonna dei Monti for a simple lunch of pizza-by-the-slice. The pieces of pizza are priced by weight and wrapped to-go, which you will want to do because there is so much more to see on Day 1!
Afternoon in Rome City Center
In the afternoon discover additional important sights in the city center. Trek up to Capitoline Hill, visit a stunning church and stand atop the Victor Emmanuel National Monument. Next, stroll through beautiful city squares, gaze in wonder at the Pantheon and indulge in your first Rome gelato!
Piazza del Campidoglio on Capitoline Hill
Capitoline Hill is one of the Seven Hills of Rome and the center of the city’s government. Piazza del Campidoglio, the square atop the hill, was designed by Michelangelo in 1536 and the centerpiece is an equestrian statue of Marcus Aurelius.
The grand piazza is ringed by museums, including the Capitoline Museum, that exhibits fantastic artwork. However, with a tight schedule of things to see in Rome, we recommend skipping it unless you have more time.
Pro Tip: Walk around the south side of the square for a phenomenal elevated view over the Roman Forum!
Santa Maria in Aracoeli Basilica
Located on the highest point of Campidoglio Square, The Santa Maria in Aracoeli Church is one that shouldn’t be missed! The over-the-top, glittering interior is sumptuously decorated and houses numerous artworks.
Pro Tip: The church is free to enter…you just need to climb the 124 marble steps to the entrance!
Altare della Patria: Victor Emmanuel Monument
The Victor Emmanuel II National Monument (formally called Altare della Patria, or Altar of the Fatherland) celebrates Italy’s first king with a 43-foot-tall equestrian statue. At the base of the commanding statue is Italy’s Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.
Pro Tip: Visitors can go up to the Terrazza delle Quadrighe, but a ticket is required to ride up the elevators.
Piazza Venezia
On the north side of the Victor Emmanuel Monument is the historic Piazza Venezia. The busy center point of Rome sees a steady flow of traffic. The ornate square is lined with palaces and Napoleon’s mother lived in one of them!
Pro Tip: Nearby is the San Marco Church, which dates to the year 1336. If time allows, pop inside to see the extravagant mosaic interior.
Largo di Torre Argentina
Largo di Torre Argentina is a 3rd century BC holy site, which was only discovered in 1927. The remains of four Roman temples and the Pompey Theater – where Julius Caesar was assassinated in the year 44 BC – stand in the sunken square.
Pro Tip: Cats have long been the only creatures to walk among the ruins – humans only had a view from above. However, some of the walkways through the historic site are now open for visitors; there is a small admission fee.
The Pantheon
Another symbol of Rome, the Pantheon is an ancient wonder. Built as a temple for “all of the gods,” the 2,000-year-old Pantheon is the best-preserved monument from Roman times. The building, which is now a church, features a striking dome, which ranks as the largest unenforced concrete dome in the world.
Pro Tip: The Pantheon is, unfortunately, no longer free to visit. Tickets can be purchased online or at the door.
Giolitti Gelato
It’s time for gelato…and Giolitti is one of the best gelato shops in Rome! A prominent gelateria that has been in business since 1900, Giolitti is an old-fashioned sweet shop that is best known for their exceptional gelato. In addition to the standard flavors, Giolitti also makes a rice gelato (and it’s quite good!).
Pro Tip: There will likely be a line at Giolitti, but it moves pretty fast!
Evening on Day 1: City Squares and a Fine Italian Meal
End your first day with a leisurely stroll through the heart of Rome. While wandering, make your way to two of the city’s best squares: Piazza Navona and Campo de Fiori. At last, sit down to an exceptional Italian meal at a traditional osteria.
Piazza Navona
The grand Piazza Navona is laden with outdoor cafes and features three ornate fountains. Fontana dei Quattro Fiumi (Fountain of the Four Rivers) stands in the center is is flanked by Fountain of Neptune on the north end and Fontana del Moro (Four Tritons) on the south end.
Pro Tip: The outdoor cafes at Piazza Navona are perfect for enjoying a glass of wine while people-watching!
Campo de Fiori
Once a meadow, then a site for executions, Campo de Fiori (Field of Flowers) was transformed into a marketplace in 1869. During the day the square still hosts a fresh produce market (except Sundays).
Pro Tip: At the center is a haunting statue of philosopher Giordano Bruno. In 1600, he was burned alive after being found guilty of heresy by the Roman Inquisition; his statue commemorates the many people who perished on the site.
Dinner: Osteria da Fortunata
Osteria da Fortunata is a traditional Roman tavern offering an excellent Italian gastronomic experience. The pasta is made by hand and dishes are prepared with secret recipes. The incredibly popular Rome restaurant does not take reservations, so expect a queue.
Top Tip: After dinner, take a stroll to Trevi Fountain and Spanish Steps. We visit these sights again, however, they are extremely atmospheric and less crowded at night.
DAY 2 – Sant’Angelo Castle, The Vatican and Food Tour
Day 2 of your Rome trip explores the fascinating district of Prati, the renowned Castel Sant’Angelo and the legendary sights of Vatican City. In the evening, embark on a indulgent Local Rome Food Tour.
Morning in Prati and Sant’Angelo Castel
Begin your second day in the Prati District – one of the best places to visit in Rome. The underrated and affluent Prati neighborhood is still somewhat off the beaten path. To get to the Prati neighborhood, ride Metro Line A from the Rome City Center to the Lepanto Station.
Start the morning with a classic Italian coffee and then stroll through Prati to the riverside Castel Sant’Angelo. Then, eat an early street food lunch, as you will want to be hungry for your evening foodie tour!
Sciascia Caffè 1919
Established in the Prati District in 1919, Sciascia Caffe is a longstanding, award-winning coffee shop. The cafe serves a secret blend of coffee that pairs perfectly with their cornetto pastry or light breakfast.
Pro Tip: Don’t rush through your coffee! Take a seat inside the cozy and historic cafe and enjoy every last drop.
Castel Sant’Angelo
Impossible to miss, the striking Castel Sant’Angelo rises from the banks of the curving River Tiber. Built in the 2nd century AD as a Mausoleum for Roman Emperor Hadrian, the castle has also been used as a fortress and a prison. Today the round, imposing structure serves as one of the best Rome museums.
Pro Tip: In addition to the history of the castle and the artwork inside, don’t miss the landscaped gardens and gorgeous Ponte Sant’Angleo Bridge that connects the castle to the Rome City Center.
Early Lunch at Scialla The Original Street Food
Grab a quick and light lunch on Day 2, as dinner will be a proper feast, Pop into Scialla for suppli – a favorite Rome street food. Similar to Sicilian arancini, suppli are fried rice balls with tasty fillings. Try the Suppli all’Amatriciana!
Pro Tip: Be sure to get there early as Scialla is extremely popular.
Afternoon at Vatican City
After a quick bite to eat, head straight for Vatican City; it’s the world’s smallest country…but you don’t need a passport! Ruled by the Pope, the 121-acre nation boasts magnificent sights.
Your Vatican City sightseeing on Day 2 of your Rome Three-Day Itinerary features the two top sights: St. Peter’s Basilica and the Vatican Museum.
Begin your discovery in the esteemed St. Peter’s Square to marvel at it’s grandness, then step inside the glorious St. Peter’s Basilica. Complete your exploration at the Vatican Museum, taking in the artwork and standing under the Sistine Chapel ceiling.
St. Peter’s Square
St. Peter’s Square is the massive plaza that fronts St. Peter’s Basilica. It was designed by famous Roman architect Gian Lorenzo Bernini. At the center of the vast space is an Egyptian obelisk. A line of people often wrap around the perimeter; it’s the queue for security checks before entering the church (hop in line, it moves fast – and admire the area while waiting).
Pro Tip: On Sunday at noon, be in St. Peter’s Square for the Angelus Prayer, when the Pope speaks from his balcony window.
St. Peter’s Basilica
Considered the largest church in the world, St. Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City is an awe-inspiring sight. Famous artwork – including The Pieta by Michelangelo – is housed inside. Visitors can also see the burial site of St. Peter (one of Jesus’s apostles and the first Pope) or climb to the top of the dome (for a fee).
Pro Tip: Entry to St. Peter’s Basilica is free, but visitors do need to go through a security screening. Audio guides are available for a fee, but those interested in learning more can book a tour.
Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel
The Vatican Museums host a massive collection of the world’s most impressive art masterpieces, including the incredible Gallery of Maps. However, the Sistine Chapel (no photos allowed) is the highlight of visiting the Vatican Museums. The Sistine Chapel (Cappella Magna) is best known for its painted ceiling. The work of art, painted by Michelangelo, is titled “The Last Judgement.”
Pro Tip: Tickets are required to enter the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel. We recommend buying tickets online in advance to skip the line – or joining a tour. Find top rated tours on Viator.
Evening Food Tour
Indulging in Italian fare is one of the best things about taking a vacation to Rome. On the evening of second day of your trip, join a guided tour for a formal introduction to the Rome food culture.
Rome Food Tour in Prati District
Rome is known for its exceptional cuisine, but it’s not always easy for tourists to find authentic restaurants. The Prati District, however, is still full of hidden gems and culinary treasures – and tour guides know the prime spots. On this highly rated Rome Food Tour in Prati, guests are treated to more than 20 tastes of local dishes – plus free-flowing wine.
Pro Tip: Tours are limited to just 13 participants – so be sure to reserve your spot in advance!
Alternate Day 2 Evening Plan
While food tours are a fun way to spend an evening, we know that some Rome travelers are more interested in the sights. Rome is a haven of famous religious landmarks, and those interested in seeing more should consider visiting San Giovanni in Laterano and Scala Sancta.
Afterwards, dine at an old-fashioned Rome restaurant that is frequently mostly by locals. To get to the churches from the Vatican Museum, hop on the Metro Line A at Ottaviano and disembark at San Giovanni Station.
Church of San Giovanni in Laterano
Unknown to many tourist, San Giovanni in Laterano is the Cathedral Church of Rome and the official seat of the Pope (making it ‘higher ranking’ than St. Peter’s Basilica). The building, which features a striking facade, is one of the oldest churches in Rome and the interior is lavishly decorated.
Pro Tip: It is free to enter, but a ticket is required for visiting the museum and 13th-century cloister.
Vatican Holy Stairs
The Holy Stairs (Scala Sancta), white marble covered in wood, are believed to have been walked on by Jesus during The Passion. The stairs were relocated from Jerusalem to Rome in the 4th century.
Pro Tip: Pilgrims can climb the steps, but only on their knees. At the top of the stairs is the Sancta Sanctorum – or the Holy of Holies – which is a small chapel once used by Popes.
Dinner at I Buoni Amici Roma
Slightly off the beaten path, I Buoni Amici Roma is a neighborhood restaurant that serves spectacular local Rome dishes. The staff are friendly and welcoming – and it’s affordable, too!
Top Tip: While the Tonnarelli Cacai e Pepe gets rave reviews, we suggest ordering fresh seafood or Saltimbocca alla Romana (Roman-style veal cutlets).
Day 3 – Villa Borghese, Trevi, Tiber and Trastevere
Day three of our Rome tour itinerary explores more iconic places in the city. You will want to wear your favorite walking shoes, because we cover a lot of ground today!
Morning in Villa Borghese and nearby Attractions
Get an early start on the last morning of your 3-day trip to Rome. Fuel your day with a classic Granita di Caffe at a historic coffeehouse. Then, enjoy the relative calm at popular sights that are not yet crowded with fellow tourists. Next, make your way to the famed Piazza del Popolo and Villa Borghese Park.
La Casa del Caffè Tazza d’Oro
Many cafes serve Coffee Granita, but no place is more famous for the specialty Rome drink than La Casa del Caffè Tazza d’Oro. Known for their icy espresso topped with cream, it’s the perfect way to kickstart your day!
Top Tip: The cafe opens at 7am on weekdays and Saturdays. However, like many places in Rome, it opens later on Sundays; at 10am.
Trevi Fountain
One of the world’s most famous fountains, the enormous Baroque Trevi Fountain dates to the year 1762. It is believed that tossing a coin into the fountain (with your right hand over your left shoulder) will guarantee a return visit to Rome.
Pro Tip: The Trevi Fountain is usually teeming with tourists, which makes it a prime pickpocket spot. Be sure to hold onto your belongings when in crowded spaces in Rome.
Spanish Steps
A Rome landmark, the Spanish Steps were built in the 1700s. The 135 steps connect the Spanish Embassy to Trinita dei Monti Church at the top of the hill. At the base of the stairs, in Piazza di Spagna, is the Fontana della Barcaccia (Fountain of the Ugly Boat).
Pro Tip: The Spanish Steps, while an attraction, are also a place to rest, relax and meet fellow travelers.
Piazza del Popolo
A grandiose neoclassical square, the vast Piazza del Popolo once served as the northern entrance into the city of Rome. The square features elaborate fountains, twin churches and an ancient Egyptian Obelisk at the center.
Top Tip: To get to Piazza del Popolo, use the popular walking street, Via del Babuino. The charming throughfare is lined with high-end stores and boutique shops.
Villa Borghese
Serving as Rome’s largest green space, the ornate Borghese Park is crisscrossed with walking paths and is adorned with sculptures, monuments and artwork. Plus, the park hosts top attractions, including museums and a zoo. The lakeside Tempio di Esculapio is not to be missed!
Top Tip: The Borghese Gallery Museum – which features the work of Gian Lorenzo Bernini – is a must for art aficionados.
Afternoon in Trastevere and Tiber Island
After spending the morning traversing through the lovely Villa Borghese Gardens, hop on a bus (or in an Uber) in the direction of the Trastevere neighborhood. Eat Rome’s best sandwich, then stroll to the Jewish Quarter, Bocca della Verita and on to Tiber Island.
Trastevere
The trendy Trastevere neighborhood lies on the west bank of the Tiber River. With narrow lanes and picturesque squares, it is one of the most atmospheric neighborhoods in Rome. In addition to its numerous churches, the district is also home to an abundance of restaurants and bars.
Pro Tip: We are highlighting a few must-sees, but suggest also wandering through the area with a sense of wonder…and see what you discover!
Lunch at Cabullo (and Gelato)
For lunch on the last day of your Rome vacation, eat the famous Rome pork sandwich, a Porchetta Panini, at Cabullo. The savory slow-roasted pulled pork is piled high on a soft bun. It’s simple and it’s divine.
Just be sure to save room for dessert – as the area is best explored with gelato in hand! We recommend getting a scoop from the nearby Gelateria del Viale.
Top Tip: If it happens to be the weekend, consider eating at the Mercato Campagna Amica al Circo Massimo Market instead. In addition to the tasty local goods for sale, like fresh produce, artisan cheese and truffles, vendors sell ready-made meals, including Porchetta sandwiches.
Church of Santa Maria in Trastevere
One of Rome’s oldest churches, Santa Maria in Trastevere dates to the 3rd century (although it was rebuilt in the 12th century). The interior features intricate mosaics.
Pro Tip: It is free to enter, but don’t miss the facade, which is decorated in glittering mosaics and a rising Romanesque bell tower.
Jewish Quarter
The Roman Ghetto dates to the mid-1500s, when the Pope stripped Jews of their rights and designated that all Roman Jews live within the confinements of the district. In 1943, the Nazis descended on the neighborhood, sending more than 1,000 Jews to their death at Auschwitz. Today, the Jewish Quarter thrives as a quaint neighborhood. The area is home to the Great Synagogue of Rome, the Jewish Museum and an incredible number of restaurants.
Pro Tip: To get to the Jewish Quarter, start by crossing the notable Ponte Sisto. The 15th century bridge is pedestrian-only!
Bocca della Verita
The Bocca della Verita (Mouth of Truth) is a sculpture dedicated to the God of the Sea (whose eyes, nose and mouth are open). Legend says the Bocca della Verita will bite off the hand of liars, so tourists line up to prove their honesty (or test the legend).
Pro Tip: The Bocca della Verita is located on the facade of Santa Maria in Cosmedin Basilica, which is worth a quick look inside. Also nearby is the Temple of Hercules Victor.
Tiber Island
Tiber Island, which only measures 890 feet long and 220 feet wide, lies in the middle of the Tiber River. The island itself is mostly occupied by a hospital, but the Basilica di San Bartolomeo all’Isola is worth visiting.
Pro Tip: Visitors can easily get to the island, as it is connected to both banks of the river via bridges. In fact, the northside Ponte Fabricio Bridge is the oldest bridge in Rome, dating to the year 62 BC.
Evening in Trastevere
Spend the evening of your last night in Rome at Trastevere. First, hike up to an elevated viewpoint for a fabulous panoramic vista, then dine at one of the top Trastevere restaurants.
Gianicolo Hill
Providing sweeping views over Rome, Gianicolo Hill – also called Janiculum – is a stunning place to go at sunset. Although the viewpoint faces the opposite direction, it’s a phenomenal vantage point to see the city bathed in soft light. The hill is also home to churches, universities and the Baroque Fontana dell’Acqua Paola.
Pro Tip: If time allows, seek out the Church of San Pietro in Montorio, the Garibaldi Monument and the Manfredi Lighthouse.
Dinner at Mimì e Cocò Trast
Stylish, yet warm, Mimi e Coco Trast is housed in a wonderful 18th century building. The menu features classic Italian dishes and the ambiance is supreme!
Top Tip: To end your 3 Days in Rome trip on a high note, order the Lasagna Bolognese and Spaghetti alla Carbonara…and maybe a bottle of Italian red wine!
Rome Attractions Map
Use this Google Map for our interactive Rome Map for Tourist from below. Our Rome sightseeing map is marked with all the attractions that we list in our itinerary. BLUE markers are Day 1; PURPLE Day 2; GREEN Day 3; GRAY markers indicate alternate options.
Top Tips for City Sightseeing Rome, Italy
Trying to plan what to visit in Rome in 3 days is a big task! Hopefully, our outlined Rome trip planner has helped you decide how to spend your time in the city.
We are fairly independent travelers – and like to move at our own pace. However, figuring out exactly where to go, how to get there and what to see can be stressful. Those who would rather leave it to a professional might consider adding tours to their Rome sightseeing itinerary.
Top Rome Tours
There are hundreds of Rome tours to choose from. Our advice is to research ahead of time and thoroughly read reviews. After selecting a tour, make sure to book your spot in advance. The most popular tours book up quickly! In our experience, Viator is a great resource for top-rated tours, which are vetted by fellow travelers.
We believe some of the best Rome city tours shed light on it’s long history. The ancient sights and religious wonders can sometimes be difficult to make sense of on your own. Two of the top rated tours for Rome itineraries is an Ancient Sights Tour and a Vatican Tour.
Ancient Sights and Colosseum Half Day Tour
Rather than tackling Ancient Rome on your own, let a guide lead the way! A professional provides insight about the historic sights, which can certainly enhance the experience. Get price and details!
Vatican Tour
On a 3-hour Vatican Highlights tour, participants are led by an expert guide through the massive Vatican Museums complex. The guide showcases the most important pieces inside the museum and helps visitors to better understand the Sistine Chapel. This group tour also includes a guided walk through St. Peter’s Basilica. Find pricing and more details!
Hop On Hop Off Bus Rome
While we love walking around Rome on foot, not everyone agrees with us! Granted, the route of our Rome Itinerary certainly clocks some miles. If pounding the pavement isn’t appealing to you, consider hopping aboard a Big Bus Tour.
Offering multiple sightseeing routes, joining a Rome bus tour can also save time. View the Big Bus Tour Rome hop on hop off route map.
Day Trips From Rome, Italy
There are plenty of places to visit in Rome, Italy in 3 days without leaving the city center. However, there are quite a few places you can easily reach on Rome day trips. We are listing some of the highly rated organized day tours, but you can find more on Viator.
Rome Travel Tips
We have provided our recommendations for the top things to do in Rome in 3 days, and we believe it’s a pretty solid plan! We do, however, have a few travel tips to share that will aid in your vacation planning.
When To Go To Rome
Before planning a Rome trip, consider the weather, crowds and prices – and which is most important to you. There are pros and cons to visiting Rome any time of year, and there really isn’t an off-season any longer. That said, we believe it is best to visit Rome in the autumn.
During autumn, temperatures have backed off and so have the crowds. Wintertime can be chilly and wet. Spring is not a bad time to travel to Rome, just avoid the week of Easter. Summertime sees the heaviest crowds, the highest prices and soaring temperatures. If at all possible, say no to Rome in the summer.
How To Get To Rome
Rome can be reached by every mode of transport under the sun. Most travelers will arrive by plane. Before booking flights, read our advice on Ways To Save Money on Airfare.
There are two Rome airports. The Leonardo da Vinci Fiumicino Airport (FCO) is the main airport in Rome and handles the majority of international flights. Rome Ciampino Airport (CIA), is served by low-cost carriers Ryanair and Wizz Air. Both are connected by express trains to the main train station in Rome.
Roma Termini, which is conveniently right in the city center, is the primary train hub. The station is incredibly busy and, despite a large police presence, pickpockets thrive in Roma Termini.
There are multiple bus stations in Rome; the biggest sits right outside of the Termini train station. If arriving or departing Rome by bus, be sure to confirm the station before booking tickets.
Travelers visiting Rome by cruise ship will dock at the Port of Civitavecchia, northwest of the city
Personally, we don’t recommend driving in Rome. Having a car is completely unnecessary and ultimately just a hassle. However, those visiting destinations outside of Rome can rent a car for their day trip.
Where To Stay in Rome, Italy
If you are going to visit Rome in 3 days, you need a place to stay! There are thousands of places to stay in Rome and consequently we have stayed in numerous different places – some of which we liked better than others. While we don’t have a singular Rome hotel recommendation, we prefer the area around the Barberini metro stop.
Whether you are looking for luxury Rome hotels or a budget Rome hostel, it’s best to start your search on a robust search engine, like Booking.com. First, however, read our tips for Booking Prime Hotels for Cheap!
What To Pack For Your Trip to Rome
Okay, it’s finally time to get out that backpack or suitcase. You can read more hacks on our Packing Tips Page, but for now grab your FREE Packing Checklist!
Packing the Right Clothes
It is important to pack clothing that is comfortable for sightseeing in Rome – but it is also necessary to wear appropriate apparel. The beautiful churches are some of the best places to visit in Rome in 3 days – but conservative clothing is required to enter.
Most Rome churches require visitors’ knees and shoulders be covered. I suggest women wear comfortable knee length dresses for summer Rome sightseeing. Additionally, carry a wrap or lightweight jacket or hoodie to cover shoulders if necessary.
Walking Shoes for Europe
Our Itinerary for Rome in 3 Days will put some wear on your shoes! It’s important to pack durable travel shoes for walking to city sights. I like wearing these lightweight shoes from New Balance – and Kris prefers trail shoes by Merrell.
Travel Camera
Between the ancient Roman ruins and stunning architecture, Rome is a magnificent city to photograph. We recommend having an actual travel camera for your trip and keep your phone tucked away. We shoot with a Canon Rebel with a 18-135mm lens, which captures great shots and comes with loads of accessories, making it a great budget camera.
Rome Weather Gear
Many of the attractions in Rome are outdoors, so it is best to be prepared for the elements. It’s a good idea to bring a packable raincoat and travel umbrella (which can also provide shade on sunny days). In the summer, make sure to pack sunscreen and a wide-brimmed hat – and your favorite sunglasses.
Zippered Day Bag
The city of Rome is rife with pickpocketing thieves. As tourist are prime targets, keep your personal belongs tucked away safely. We like to carry these small backpacks and wear them on our chests in crowded spaces.
Our backpacks can hold our camera, collapsible water bottles, wrap, map and other everyday travel items. Read our reviews for the Best Day Bags for Travel to find the right one for your trip.
Italy Travel Insurance
No matter how well you prepare, sometimes travel goes sideways, Luggage gets lost, flights cancel or travelers become ill. If you haven’t already obtained insurance for your vacation to Italy, consider traveling protected with World Nomads.
Start planning your trip to Italy! Search for the lowest airfares, the best accommodations and fun things to do…then start packing! Want more travel advice? Head over to our Travel Planning Page for tips on traveling – and for country-specific information, take a look at our Travel Guides Page!
Italy Travel Guides
Hopefully you found our article on how to visit Rome in three days to be helpful. Check out our other honest and free travel guides for Italy!
- Best Itinerary for Florence
- Things To Do in Siena
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