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Rome: The Eternal City

The Eternal City has so much to offer visitors that it can often be difficult to decide what to do on a weekend in Rome. It is a center of art and culture, with a history that spans not only centuries, but millennia. There are several stories about the possible founding of Rome, the most popular goes that two twins raised by wolves quarreled and the survivor, Romulus, gave the city his name and became the first king in 753 BCE. Whether you believe that’s how it went down or not, there’s no doubt that it has been a center of civilization for a really long time.

This long stretch of history provides plenty of options when it comes to finding things to do over 3 days in Rome. The long association with the Catholic Church from the time Christianity became the official religion of the Roman Empire in 380 CE means that Rome has over 900 churches. There are several tours that focus on their incredible architecture and the art inspired by the church, with Vatican Tours highlighting some of the best and most prized pieces.

When you’re looking for things to do in Rome in 3 days, the vast number of choices can seem overwhelming, so we’ve put together an itinerary to get you started. So, even if you don’t find time to sail around Rome in a Vespa Sidecar or do a Percy Jackson style Hunt For Heroes - we are sure that you’ll feel fulfilled by the end of the third night!

Additionally, as with any country, we encourage everyone to try and learn the country’s customs and culture a bit before you go as it is not only respectful, but it can add a profound amount of understanding to the things that you see and experience while you’re in the country. Additionally, by knowing and respecting proper etiquette in this country, you will also find your experience to be safer than the experience of other travelers. We are confident that you’ll look back at this short customs and culture guide as one of the main contributors to your amazing trip to Italy!

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3 Days in Rome Itinerary

Rome: Day 1

On your Rome itinerary, we’ll take the first day to look at some of the amazing plazas, or piazzas, and parks. The public art and architecture in Rome are not to be missed!

Campo de Fiori

Campo de Fiori, so named for the literal field of flowers it once was, remains a focus of street culture and commerce. The daily market is a lovely source of fruits, vegetables, pasta, olive oils, and of course the flowers the plaza is named for. It’s a great place to pick up souvenir-sized limoncello, olive oil, or other culinary treats.

The Campo de Fiori Market Hours are from early in the morning to 2pm every day except Sunday. Surrounding the plaza, the shopping opportunities continue with many shops and boutiques. There are also a wide range of restaurants in the area, many with outdoor seating in the plaza in the evening. To see a full day in time-lapse at Campo de Fiori, check out this video.

We picked up an eggplant, smoked cheese, and arugula farcita Pizza at Baccanale here, as well as a number of pasta seasoning packets - but be careful, some of the seasoning packets are exceptionally spicy!

A delicious way to start this day would be by sampling a number of treats - such as pizza, cured meats, prosciutto, pasta, gelato, and much more - by taking a food & wine tour though Campo de Fiori, Piazza Navona, the Pantheon, and Trevi Fountain. It’s not just for food and wine though, they actually give you a great tour of the history of the areas that you walk to along the way!

Piazza Navona

Nearby, across the Corso Vittoria Emanuele, you will find the splendid Piazza Navona. Famous for its appearance in several films - including John Wick: Chapter 2, James Bond’s Spectre, and The Talented Mr. Ripley - the Piazza Navona Fountains are a must see.

The central and most famous is the Fountain of the Four Rivers, Fontana dei Quattro Fiumi. It was designed in 1651 with the four rivers representing different continents around an Egyptian-style obelisk. Additionally, you’ll usually find the Piazza Navona Band playing some tunes throughout the day.

The long Piazza is bounded on either end by two more fountains, Fontana del Nettuno in the north and Fontana del Moro at the southern end. Often called the most beautiful plaza in Rome, a break at one of the many Piazza Navona Restaurants and cafes - possibly for some people-watching - is perfect post-shopping. It’s also where you’ll get to try the best Tiramisù in town while on the food & wine tour mentioned in the Campo de Fiori section above.

Temple of Hadrian

After your coffee, a short walk from the northern end of the plaza brings you to Il Tempio di Adriano, the Temple of Hadrian. The colonnade, and a wall, of the original temple built in 145 CE was incorporated into the 17th century building that was built as a papal palace, but now houses the Italian stock exchange.

In the evenings there is a free light show highlighting the history and accomplishments of Emperor Hadrian whom the temple was built to honor. It runs in the summer through the end of September after the sun goes down.

Roman Pantheon

The Roman Pantheon is sometimes called the “Pantheon of Aggripa” due to being located on the site of a building of a previous temple of that name that burned down 200 years before it was built. The well-known Roman landmark has seen continuous use, first as a Roman temple and then as Roman Catholic church since its dedication in 126 CE.

The oculus in the center of its impressive dome is an architectural feature not to be missed, providing natural light to the circular interior. The height of the dome measures the same as the diameter of the circle, giving the space a pleasing symmetry. The light is particularly good at midday.

Some guides will give you the finer details of the Pantheon as well as the lesser known surrounding landmarks like Bernini’s Elephant and Obelisk as well as the Basilica of Neptune. You’ll also find one of the best gelato places of this district, as well as one of the most amazing coffees that you’ve ever tasted, in this area while on the food and wine tour.

Additionally, the columned portico provides an impressive backdrop for a Pantheon Selfie if capturing the oculus light is too challenging for your photographic skills. See our attempt at the bottom of this article!

Trevi Fountain

Perhaps the most famous in a city of over 2000 fountains, Fontana di Trevi, or the Trevi Fountain, was built at the in of one of the ancient aqueducts that supplied Rome with fresh water.

Trevi Fountain History is full of both myth and politics. The spring at the source of the aqueduct was supposedly a Roman virgin. The current fountain was built on the site of a smaller fountain in the 1700s, the designer was to be chosen by contest, but the commission was given to Nicola Salvi, a roman artist, when the winner was from Florence. Restored in 1988 and again in 2015, the beautiful statues and bas reliefs of the fountain showcase beautifully both day and night.

When you visit, don’t forget to make your Trevi Fountain Wish – a coin thrown with your right hand over your left shoulder is supposed to ensure your return visit to Rome, two coins ensure true love, and three you will marry the person you met. That particular tradition was popularized by the 1954 film “Three Coins in the Fountain.”

There are other traditions and beliefs involving throwing coins into fountains, but who wouldn’t love another visit to the amazing city complete with true love! And with an excellent selection of Hotels Near Trevi Fountain, it’s a spot that can be visited more than once, even on a short trip to the city. The Hotel Trevi Roma is just one minute away!

The Spanish Steps

Another nearby must-see in Rome is the Piazza di Spagna and The Spanish Steps rising above the plaza. Named for the historic Spanish Embassy to the Holy See (not to Italy), the plaza is centered around the Fontana della Barcaccia and dominated by the famous steps.

The view of Rome is worth the 135-step climb to the top of Pincian Hill. When you are looking for things to do in Rome at night, the night view and busy streets make the Piazza di Spagna a great choice. It’s located in one of the most popular neighborhoods in Rome, and like the Trevi Fountain, hotels near Spanish Steps Rome are convenient and easy to find.

Villa Borghese Gardens

Behind the church, Trinita' dei Monti, at the top of the Spanish Steps, you can find the Villa Borghese Gardens. One of the most popular Roman Gardens, they were converted from a former vineyard in 1603.

Though there is a long tradition on informal public access, these gardens were officially made free and open to the public in 1903, with the Roman government purchasing it from the Borghese family who gave the park its name. In addition to the access behind the Spanish Steps, there is a main entrance off the Piazza del Popolo.

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Temple of Aesculapius

The Villa Borghese gardens are home to the Tempio di Esculapio or the Temple of Aesculapius, a temple thought to replicate an ancient temple to Aesculapius, the god of medicine. It was built in the 1780 and a much older statue of Aesculapius was restored and installed in the temple.

The gardens are also home to several other villas, including the Villa Borghese, which houses the Galleria Borghese. Villa Borghese Tickets are actually Galleria Borghese Tickets and can be purchased through their website for 13 euros, with discounts for students, children, and EU citizens. You can grab an art historian to guide you through the gallery and help you fully appreciate the paintings and sculptures.

Exhibits of the works of famous artists share space with classical antiquities, making this one of the best museums in the world. It’s necessary to book your tickets in advance and visitors are allowed timed entrance limited to 100 people at a time, so it’s a good idea to do so a few days early, to ensure a chance to see the excellent artwork and cultural exhibitions. You can also get more information about the gallery here.

Rome: Day 2

On the second day, we explore ancient Rome. Many of the ancient sites are centrally located, and have been excavated by archeologists and opened to the public. There’s so much history to explore here!

Roman Colosseum

Perhaps the most well-known image of Rome is the Colosseum. An ancient amphitheater, completed in 80 CE, has been witness to everything from the gladiator contests to mock sea battles. Though its use as an entertainment venue stopped in the middle ages, it has seen a host of other uses since then.

Colosseum Rome Tickets are combined with tickets for the Forum and Palatine. It’s a good idea to be pretty early to the ticket office on Palatine Hill, so you don’t spend your day waiting to get tickets. Alternatively, you can grab private skip-the-line Colosseum and Roman Forum small group tickets for kids & families online.

The best way to see and experience its incredible history is to take a guided tour. Colosseum Tours let you skip the long lines and get all the details with the expertise of a local guide. If you’re looking for restaurants near the Colosseum, your guide will also have great advice for where to eat near the Colosseum.

MORE INFORMATION: 7 tips on visiting the Colosseum, Palatine Hill, and the Roman Forum

Roman Forum

After lunch you can head the Foro Traiano, or the Trajan’s Forum. The last of the imperial fora to be built, it forms part of the complex of the Roman Forum – the political center Ancient Rome.

As with the Colosseum, Roman Forum Tickets are combined and should be purchased early to avoid long lines. There’s a lot of ground to cover in the Forum, so it’s a good idea to take advantage of a tour guide who can help you focus in on interesting aspects and give you deeper insight into the meaning of what we can see in the vast archeological site.

If you do prefer to wander on your own, early morning is the best time to avoid crowds and heat in the summer.

NEARBY: Get first-hand experience making Roman Mosaics in this workshop with a master mosaicist!

Palatine Hill

An often-overlooked stop is to be Palatine Hill. Located 40 meters above the Forum, Palatine Hill Rome is the central-most hill of the seven hills Rome is built on, and it offers amazing views of the Forum, Colosseum, and the Circus Maximus.

It is the legendary hill where the wolf found and cared for the mythological founder of Rome, Romulus, and his twin, Remus. This is also the part of Rome with the oldest archeological evidence that shows people living there as far back as the 10th century BCE. So whether you’re all about the myth or the history, it’s not to be missed.

Rome: Day 3

For our third day in Rome we’ll head across the Tiber river to explore further. No trip to Rome is complete without a stop at the Vatican, an independent city state within Rome since 1929. The Vatican City State, often known simply as the Vatican, is the smallest state in Europe. It’s the center of the Roman Catholic Church, and so it’s governed by the Pope. Though it covers a pretty small area – less than half a square kilometer – there’s so much to see in the Vatican.

The Vatican

The Papal palace is surrounded by beautiful gardens that are open to the public with a free ticket. A long history of using art to express and expand their faith means that the 11 Vatican museums are a treasure trove of some of the most famous art and history, including Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel.

Taking advantage of one of the Vatican Tours offered is a great way to see the history and artwork that are around every corner in this tiny space. If you’re booking on your own, Vatican hours can be a bit complicated.

Here are a few of the tours available:

A Standard Tour of the Vatican Museums, St. Peter's Basilica, and the Sistine Chapel.
A PhD guided Standard Tour - Your guide is a professional art historian or archaeologist.
A Wheelchair accessible Standard Tour - Now accessible friendly and including the Raphael Rooms!
A Private and Exclusive after-hours VIP tour after everyone else has left and the Vatican is “closed”

It’s important to note that the hours and regulations governing the Vatican Museums and gardens have changed due to the COVID-19 pandemic, so it’s necessary to book tickets online and pay close attention to the timing on your ticket as they are strictly enforced.

St. Peter’s Cathedral

The central attraction of Vatican City is Basilica San Pietro, or St Peter’s Cathedral. This brilliant example of Italian Renaissance architecture – the basilica is the largest church in the world. Because it is traditionally held that it is the burial site of Saint Peter, one of the early leaders of Christianity and the first bishop of Rome, the church is a popular pilgrimage site.

For Christians and non-Christians alike, it is a wonder of architecture and artistry. At a height of a little over 136 meters, St Peter’s Basilica Dome is the highest in the world. It was initially designed by Michelangelo, though he did not live to see its completion.

Visitors can climb to the top for incredible views of the Plaza and most of the city of Rome. The climb is a bit tricky as the stairs close to the top are very narrow and steep.

Trastevere

Just to the south of Vatican City, along the Tiber is the rione (district) of Trastevere. Its name means “across the Tiber,” and during the middle ages it was a working-class area full of artisans and laborers. The Trastevere neighborhood is filled with lovely winding cobblestone streets, hidden piazzas and churches, and tiny shops.

The area is popular with artists and intellectuals, with several foreign institutions located in the area. The picturesque streets are perfect for wandering and capturing that perfect Instagram shot, and when it comes to food, the Ristoranti Trastevere can’t be beat. Trastevere Restaurants provide a range of everything from traditional Roman cuisine to the latest microbrewery. There’s truly something for everyone here.

Spend an evening hopping from enoteca (local wine shop) to local bar, from ristorante to trattoria, and diving into the world of Roman gastronomy and Italian wines with this gourmet food & wine tasting experience. It’ll really give you the best send-off on your 3-day itinerary in Rome that you could ask for as you try “regional cured meats and cheese, delicious local pastas, a variety of different Italian wines and, of course, our favorite aperitivo cocktail.” It’s truly the perfect place to end - or start - your adventure in Rome!

Hotel Trastevere in the heart of the neighborhood, not far from the Piazza di Santa Maria, is one of many accommodation options that put you right at the heart of this charming neighborhood. Additionally, the famous Roman Jewish Ghetto is just across the bridge!

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Must See Places in Rome

These three days barely scratch the surface of all the history, art, architecture, and culture available to visitors in Rome. But that’s ok – if you tossed your coin in the Trevi Fountain, you’re sure to come again!

If you have less than 3 days to spend in Rome, we'd recommend making sure you see these 3 highlights in a single day:

The Roman Colosseum is the quintessential Roman stop for any trip to this great city!
Trevi Fountain is perhaps the most beautiful and relaxing spot in Rome.
St. Peter's Cathedral at the Vatican - it is just jaw-droppingly incredible in its intricate designs, artwork, architecture, and pure grandeur!

We would recommend grabbing the Vatican & Colosseum combo trip!

Here’s what that trip includes:

The Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel, and St. Peter's Basilica
Some free time to sample some authentic Italian cuisine (own expense)
The Colosseum, Palatine Hill, and the Roman Forum
Ending around 7 p.m. - gives you time to go see the Trevi Fountain on your own around dusk

You should have enough time to see all of these highlights in a single day and have time for some pasta or pizza! Buon Appetito!

FAQ’s

What are the best transportation options for getting around Rome during a 3-day visit?

Rome's public transportation system includes buses, trams, metro, and suburban trains. The metro has three lines (A, B, and C) that connect major tourist sites. Buses and trams offer extensive coverage throughout the city. For convenience, visitors can purchase a Roma Pass, which provides unlimited public transport and discounts to attractions. Taxis are available but can be expensive; using apps like Free Now or Uber can provide a fixed rate. Walking is also a viable option, as many attractions are within walking distance in the city center.

Are there any recommended places to eat that capture the local flavor of Rome without being tourist traps?

To experience authentic Roman cuisine, explore eateries in the Trastevere neighborhood or the Testaccio district, known for traditional Roman dishes. 'Da Enzo al 29' in Trastevere is famed for its carbonara and cacio e pepe. 'Flavio al Velavevodetto' in Testaccio offers classic Roman fare with a focus on seasonal ingredients. For a quick bite, 'Trapizzino' serves stuffed pizza pockets with various fillings. Avoid restaurants near major tourist sites, as they tend to be overpriced and less authentic.

What are some lesser-known attractions in Rome that are worth visiting for someone with an interest in history and culture?

Beyond the well-trodden path, the Baths of Caracalla offer a glimpse into ancient Roman life and engineering. The Appian Way, one of Rome's oldest roads, is lined with historic ruins and catacombs. The Aventine Hill provides a tranquil escape with churches like Santa Sabina and the famous keyhole view at the Villa del Priorato di Malta. The Centrale Montemartini museum, housed in a former power plant, displays classical statues against industrial backdrops, creating a unique contrast and narrative..

(1) 3 Days in Rome Itinerary - The Best Sights in Italy’s Eternal City. https://eatwanderexplore.com/blog/3-days-in-rome-itinerary-italy.

(2) The Best 3 Days in Rome Itinerary in 2024 (From a Local!). https://www.thediaryofanomad.com/rome-for-3-days/.

(3) Rome in 3 Days - The best plan for your trip! | romewise. https://www.romewise.com/rome-in-3-days.html.

(4) The Perfect 3 Days in Rome Itinerary (2023) - Very Hungry Nomads. https://www.veryhungrynomads.com/3-days-in-rome-itinerary/.