Three days in Rome: Your Ultimate Guide
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The saying 'Roma, non basta una vita', in English means, 'a lifetime in Rome isn't enough'. To be fair, the Italians aren't wrong.
Not all of us can spend our lives sipping cappuccinos and idling through the many piazzas Rome offers, so if you have just three days to explore this magnificent European city, keep reading.
Why go?
Why travel to Rome? For the bottom-less pit of history it offers? The unrivaled flavours or the multitude of classic, awe-inspiring art that greets you around every corner?
In a nutshell, this city is pretty cool and you should probably just book your flights now.
Highlights:
- Campo de' Fiori
- The Pantheon
- Piazza Navona
- The Spanish Steps
- Trevi Fountain
- Vatican City
- Colloseum & Roman Forum
- Trastevere
Hotel recommendation:
The River Palace Hotel is a 4 star boutique hotel just steps from Piazza del Popolo, Villa Borghese gardens with the city's best sights within walking distance. Comfortable with great service & food, this hotel is perfect for a short stay in the Eternal City.
Day 1
Your first day is always a good time to grab a map and get your bearings. Rome is pedestrian-friendly and the best way to see the city is to walk and keep walking.
You're in Rome so Pizza is obligatory. A great little breakfast/ lunch spot is Forno Campo de' Fiori. In English Campo de' Fiori means field of flowers. The square was once a meadow, and in the 1600's it was a stage for public executions. In fact, you'll see a bronzed statue of Astronomer Bruno Giordano, marking the exact spot of his death. Now a famous produce market, this is the perfect spot to people-watch while you sample the culinary delights at the many restaurants and cafes.
Head north and cross the busy Corso Vittonio to see one of the wonders of the world, the Pantheon. First constructed in 72BC, this ancient temple to the gods is one of the most preserved buildings in Rome. Gaze up the dome and get just a glimpse into the fascinating world of Roman architecture.
Surrounded by intricate cafes and trattorias, there's no need to rush your time at the Pantheon, why not grab a gelato or try some tiramsu at Restaurante Scustate il Ritardo and take in the view.
Nearby, you'll stumble across one of Rome's most remarkable piazzas. Piazza Navona is a lively baroque square featuring popular outdoor cafes, beautiful Bernini fountains and postcard views of the city.
You could wander around the beautiful piazzas and take in the magic of Rome all day, but if you're still hungry for more, head to Piazza di Spagna and climb the iconic Spanish Steps.
This famous landmark was built in 1973, by the rather little known architect Francesco de Sanctis, in honour of the King of Spain. Notorious for inspiring writers, artists and tourists with it's elegance and beauty this Roman icon has a way of captivating you.
A short walk from the Spanish Steps you'll encounter Rome's most well-known and arguably most beautiful fountain. Rushing with crystal clear waters, the enchanting Trevi Fountain showcases the city's mysterious side. This beautifully sculpted piece of Baroque art will leave you in awe at its sheer size and elegance. Of course- as the legend goes- throw a coin in the fountain and they say one day you'll return.
Day 2
A separate state completely, plan for a whole day visiting Vatican City. The home of the Pope and the glorious St. Peter's Bascilla, this holy city draws millions of tourists to its gates. One of Rome's most congested attractions, be prepared for long lines and crowds.
Home to the world's most sublime examples of artistry, the Sistine Chapel and the Raphael Rooms, book a tour and get guided through the enigmatic maze that is Vatican City.
Hours for the museum - 9am-4pm. Entrance is free the Sunday of the month from 9am-2pm.
Highlights:
- Michelangelo's Sistine Ceiling
- St Peter's Done
- Papal Blessin every Wednesday
- Vatican Museums
- St Peter's Bascilica
Day 3
Towering at more than 600ft tall, your stay in Rome isn't complete without marvelling at this infamous amphitheater. Symbolising Rome's turbulent and compelling past, the Colosseum ( Colosseo) once held thousands of revellers cheering at the blood-soaked gladiator games.
Join locals, tourists and buskers along the Roman Forum (Forum Romanum) leading up to the arena. Here you'll find tiny fragments of ancient Rome in the crumbling buildings surrounding the Colloseum.
The main sight of the Forum include the Arch of Titus (Arco di Tito), the Temple of Saturn, Temple of Vesta, and the church of San Luca e Martina. These are all linked by the Sacra Via, the main road through the Forum.
Colosseum admission fee:
Full ticket - €15.50
EU reduced ticket - €10.50 (available only for European citizens aged between 18 and 25)
EU complimentary ticket- €4.50 (available only for EU citizens aged above 65 and under 18)
Opening hours:
Mid February - mid March: 9 AM - 4.30 PM
Mid March - end March: 9 AM - 5.00 PM
End March - end August: 9 AM - 7.00 PM
End August - end Sept.: 9 AM - 6.30 PM
End Sept. - end October: 9 AM - 6.00 PM
End October - mid March: 9 AM - 4.00 PM
Off the beaten path- Trastevere
Escape the crowds and venture off the beaten path to discover a side to Rome many overlook. Just a three minute walk from Campo de' Fiori cross the river via the Ponte Sisto footbridge to reach Trastevere, an archaic yet trendy neighborhood with a vibrant nightlife.
Enjoy what is arguably the best pizza in Rome at Dar Poeta in Vicolo del Bologna. Trastevere, with its cobble-stoned streets and faded buildings make it the perfect place to just sit and admire.
