Three Days In Rome

This three days in Rome itinerary is packed with exciting activities and plenty of walking. It was my second time in this incredible city. Almost ten years ago, I tossed a coin into the Fontana di Trevi—legend says it ensures your return to Rome. Turns out, the legend was right!

Rome, Italy’s eternal capital, is a city where ancient history and modern vibrancy blend seamlessly. Once the heart of the Roman Empire, it captivates visitors with world-famous landmarks like the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Pantheon. Alongside stunning Renaissance masterpieces on nearly every corner.

But Rome isn’t just a walk through history. The city buzzes with life, from lively piazzas filled with street performers to bustling trattorias serving up authentic Italian cuisine. Keep in mind, Rome uses the Euro (€), so plan to exchange cash or bring a travel-friendly card.

For food lovers, Rome is a culinary paradise. Indulge in a plate of carbonara, savor the crunch of a freshly baked pizza al taglio, or cool down with creamy gelato. Vegetarians will delight in dishes like fresh pasta, eggplant parmigiana, and bruschetta. There’s truly something for everyone in the Eternal City!

Top tip: On the first Sunday of every month, many of Rome’s iconic sites are free to enter! We were lucky enough to visit on one of these Sundays (pure chance!). We explored the Colosseum, Roman Forum, Pantheon, and Castel Sant’Angelo—all without spending a cent, saving about €60!

However, be prepared to wake up very early, as entry operates on a first-come, first-served basis. The crowds can be intense, but the experience is well worth it.

Day 1

The first day will be the longest, with over 4.5 km of walking, so bear with me.

Colosseum

We’ll start our journey with the most iconic and well-known site in all of Rome. Watching it appear in the distance and gradually grow larger as you approach is unforgettable. Standing next to it, you can truly sense its majesty, significance, and the weight of history that surrounds this incredible monument.

No visit to Rome is complete without marvelling at the iconic Colosseum, a true masterpiece of ancient engineering. Standing in its shadow, you can almost hear the roar of the crowds that once filled its massive arena. Built nearly 2,000 years ago, this amphitheater hosted gladiatorial games, wild animal hunts, and dramatic performances that defined the grandeur of Roman entertainment.

The entrance fee includes The Colosseum, The Roman Forum and the Palatine Hill.
As we were there on the first Sunday of the month and everything being free. We had to wake up at 5:30 am to take the bus which would take us at the Colosseum.
We arrived at 7 am and there was a huge line already to get in.

Opening Hours is from 8.30 am – 4.30 pm, last entrance is at 3.30 pm.

You can buy your tickets Here

• Full entry: €18,00
• Reduced fare: €2,00 for EU visitors aged 18

Arch of Constantine And Roman Forum

Just steps from the Colosseum stands the Arch of Constantine, a towering tribute to triumph and resilience. Built in 315 AD to celebrate Emperor Constantine’s victory at the Battle of the Milvian Bridge. This monumental arch is a mosaic of Roman history, featuring sculptures and reliefs repurposed from earlier eras. Take a moment to admire its intricate details, from the heroic battle scenes to the symbols of victory. It’s a perfect spot to pause and reflect on the grandeur of ancient Rome before continuing your adventure through the Roman Forum.

The Roman Forum dates back to around the 7th century BC, making it approximately 2,700 years old. It began as a marketplace and evolved into the political, religious, and social hub of ancient Rome, with most of its iconic structures built during the Republican and Imperial periods.
A visit to the Roman Forum is like stepping into the beating heart of ancient Rome. Once the center of political, religious, and social life, this sprawling site is filled with temples, basilicas, and arches that tell the story of a powerful civilisation.

Wander through the Via Sacra, the main street where triumphant generals once paraded, and marvel at landmarks like the Temple of Saturn and the Arch of Septimius Severus. Don’t forget to pause at the Rostra, where speeches that shaped history were delivered. The Forum offers a fascinating glimpse into the grandeur of Rome’s past.

Inside the forum you can go up the Palatine Hill for a view like no other. Head to the Palatine Hill, the birthplace of the city. According to legend, this is where Romulus and Remus were found by the she-wolf, marking the start of Rome’s legendary history.

Trajan’s Column

About Three minutes walking from the end of the Roman Forum you’ll see the Trajan’s Column.
This is a masterpiece of ancient Roman art and storytelling. Erected in 113 AD to commemorate Emperor Trajan’s victories in the Dacian Wars, this towering monument is wrapped in a spiral relief that vividly depicts scenes of battle, strategy, and triumph. Standing in Trajan’s Forum, it’s an incredible feat of both artistry and engineering. Don’t miss the chance to marvel at its intricate details up close and imagine the stories it has preserved for nearly 2,000 years.

The amount of detail on this column is absolutely unbelievable! You could easily spend half an hour admiring the intricate carvings and following the story they tell in marble. Best of all, viewing the column is completely free!

Monument to Victor Emmanuel II

Only eight minutes walking from the Trajan’s Column you will find The Monument to Victor Emmanuel II, also known as the Altare della Patria, is a dazzling symbol of Italian unity. This colossal white marble structure honours the first king of a unified Italy and dominates the skyline of Piazza Venezia. Climb to the terrace for sweeping views of Rome, from the Colosseum to the Vatican, or admire the intricate statues and reliefs that tell the story of Italy’s history. Whether day or night, the monument’s grandeur is impossible to miss and a must-see on your Roman adventure.

The entrance to the monument is FREE

Chiesa di Sant’Ignazio di Loyola

Only 12 minutes walking from the Monument of Victor Emmanuel II.
This church has become one of the most popular in Rome, thanks to its newfound fame among Instagrammers who flock to capture the famous “infinite mirror” illusion. While the long line and short time allowed to use the mirror (for a fee) might not be worth it, the Chiesa di Sant’Ignazio di Loyola is still an incredibly beautiful destination worth visiting.

A Baroque masterpiece, the church dazzles with artistic trickery. Built in honor of Saint Ignatius, its ornate interior is a feast for the eyes. The highlight? The ceiling fresco by Andrea Pozzo. At first glance, the ceiling seems to soar into infinity with domes and columns. But here’s the twist: it’s all a flat painting! This optical illusion is so convincing, it’ll make you question reality.

The entrance to the church is FREE

Have Lunch In Taverna del Seminario

Fantastic place to sit down and have a wonderful meal. By chance we end up sitting in this beautiful little restaurant.
We had the famous and absolutely delicious Cacio e Pepe and the Spaghetti all’Arrabbiata, also incredible.

You can check out their website HERE.

Pantheon

Just around the corner from the restaurant, you can step straight into the Pantheon and walk through 2,000 years of history. Originally built as a temple to “all gods”, this architectural wonder is a masterpiece of ancient Roman engineering. Its crowning feature? The massive dome, still the largest unreinforced concrete dome in the world. At its centre lies the oculus, a 9-meter-wide opening that connects the interior to the sky, letting in sunlight—and occasionally, rain!

The Pantheon has survived intact through centuries, partly because it was converted into a church in 609 AD. It’s also the final resting place of Renaissance great Raphael and Victor Emmanuel II, first king of Italy.

Entrance Fee:

• Adults: €5
• From 18 to 25 Years old: €3
• Childs: Free

Basilica of Saint Mary of Minerva

Tucked behind the bustling Pantheon lies the Basilica of Saint Mary of Minerva, one of Rome’s rare examples of Gothic architecture. Step inside, and you’ll be greeted by soaring vaulted ceilings and vibrant frescoes that feel like a step into another world.

Look out front for the quirky elephant statue by Bernini, which carries an ancient Egyptian obelisk on its back—a delightful symbol of wisdom and strength.

The entry to the Basilica is FREE

Piazza Navona And Sant’Agnese in Agone

Seven minutes walking from the Basilica you have the Piazza Navona.
Once a Roman stadium for athletic events, its oval shape hints at its ancient roots. Today, it’s a lively hub filled with street artists, cafes, and some of the city’s most stunning Baroque fountains.
The star of the show? Bernini’s Fountain of the Four Rivers, a masterpiece representing four major rivers of the world.

Rising majestically in Piazza Navona, the Sant’Agnese in Agone church is a stunning example of Baroque architecture, built in the 17th century (construction began in 1652). Designed by the famed Borromini, its elegant dome and intricate interior make it a must-see for art and history lovers.

Legend has it that this church marks the spot where Saint Agnes was martyred in ancient Rome.

Via dei Coronari

I truly loved walking through this little street!
Right at the end of the Piazza you have Via dei Coronari, one of the most charming streets in Rome, built in the 15th century. This cobblestone lane, once part of the pilgrimage route to St. Peter’s Basilica, is lined with Renaissance-era buildings and boutique shops. Its name comes from the “coronari”, the rosary sellers who catered to pilgrims during the Middle Ages.

Via dei Coronari is often called Rome’s most photogenic street—its timeless beauty has even made it a favorite filming location for Italian movies.

St. Angelo Bridge

At the end of Via Dei Coronari you’ll find St. Angelo Bridge.
Built in 134 AD by Emperor Hadrian, this stunning Roman bridge originally connected the city to his mausoleum, now the Castel Sant’Angelo. Its elegant arches have stood the test of time

The bridge was transformed in the 17th century when Bernini and his students adorned it with ten exquisite angel statues, each holding symbols of the Passion of Christ.

Enjoy the view from the river and look at the sunset in this spectacular place.
After much walking we start our way back to our place to spend the night.

Day 2

As in the first day, you will need to wake up early in this three days in Rome!

Fontana Di Trevi

To truly enjoy this spot without the crowds, I recommend arriving as early as possible. Keep in mind that the fountain is cleaned twice a week, on Mondays and Wednesdays between 6 AM and 10 AM. During this time, the first step near the fountain is closed, so plan your visit accordingly!

The Fontana di Trevi, one of Rome’s most iconic monuments, is a breathtaking masterpiece that has captivated travelers for centuries. Completed in 1762, this grand baroque fountain was designed by Nicola Salvi and later finished by Giuseppe Pannini.

Set against the backdrop of the Palazzo Poli, its dramatic sculptures depict Neptune, the god of the sea, flanked by allegorical figures representing abundance and health. The fountain’s roaring waters symbolize the power of nature, fed by the ancient Aqua Virgo aqueduct, which dates back to 19 BCE.

Toss a coin over your shoulder into the fountain—it’s said to ensure your return to Rome! It worked for me—I came back almost 10 years later!
You can see the Fountain for FREE

Basilica Sant’Andrea delle Fratte

Only five minutes walking from the fountain you find this beautiful Basilica!
The Basilica Sant’Andrea delle Fratte is a hidden treasure in the bustling heart of Rome, perfect for those who love history, art, and quiet charm. Built in the 12th century, it underwent a stunning transformation during the 17th century, with renovations led by the famous architect Francesco Borromini.

You can feel the history encapsulate in this place.
Entry to the Basilica is FREE

Piazza di Spagna and Spanish Steps

If you walk four minutes you’ll be in this must on your trip to Rome!
The Piazza di Spagna, is a magnet for travelers and romantics alike. Its history dates back to the 17th century, but it became truly famous with the completion of the Spanish Steps in 1725, designed by Francesco de Sanctis.

The 135-step staircase connects the piazza to the Trinità dei Monti Church, offering a stunning view of the city. At the base, you’ll find the charming Fontana della Barcaccia, crafted by Pietro Bernini and his son, Gian Lorenzo Bernini. Legend has it the fountain’s design was inspired by a stranded boat left by a flood of the Tiber River.
The view from down the stairs is incredible and perfect for some good pictures.

The Spanish Steps got their name from the nearby Spanish Embassy, though today they’re better known for fashion shoots and film scenes like Roman Holiday.

Trinità dei Monti

Right on top of the Spanish Stairs, sits this beautiful church.
The Trinità dei Monti, Built in 1502 under the patronage of King Louis XII of France, this French Gothic-style church offers breathtaking views of the city and a peaceful escape from the bustling Piazza di Spagna below.
Inside, you’ll find artistic treasures like the Deposition by Daniele da Volterra, a student of Michelangelo, and stunning frescoes that transport you back to the Renaissance era. Don’t miss the church’s Egyptian-style obelisk outside, which adds an intriguing touch to its surroundings.

The church is open from 10:15 till 19:00.
The entry to the church is FREE.

After this you can choose to go to the Villa Medici, we skip it because we founded quite expensive. 14 Euros each.

Terrazza Viale del Belvedere and Villa Borghese

If you follow the street of the church , in seven minutes and up a case of stairs you’ll find yourself at this incredible terrazza.
Nestled between the Terrazza del Pincio and Villa Medici, the Terrazza Viale del Belvedere is a hidden gem offering some of the best panoramic views of Rome.

From here, you can admire Rome’s unique skyline, featuring landmarks like the Altare della Patria and the domes of numerous churches, including the iconic St. Peter’s Basilica. Unlike the more frequented Terrazza del Pincio, this spot is often less crowded, providing a serene atmosphere to soak in the city’s beauty.

The terrace’s central location allows for a broader view of Rome’s landmarks, making it a preferred spot for photographers and romantics alike. It’s especially enchanting at sunset, when the city’s rooftops are bathed in a golden shade.

Behind this terrace you have the “green hearth of Rome”, perfect to have a quiet stroll and enjoy the fountains, statues and fantastic greenery.
Originally built in 1606 by Cardinal Scipione Borghese, it was designed as a private retreat and to showcase his impressive collection of art.

Today, this sprawling park is one of the largest in Rome, home to the Borghese Gallery, where you can admire works by Bernini, Caravaggio, and Raphael.

Piazza del Popolo

At en end left corner of the park and down a case of stairs theirs this incredible square.
The Piazza del Popolo has been a gathering place for centuries. At its center stands the towering Flaminio Obelisk, a 24-meter-tall Egyptian monument brought to Rome by Emperor Augustus in 10 BCE. The square is flanked by the twin churches, Santa Maria in Montesanto and Santa Maria dei Miracoli, creating a strikingly symmetrical entrance to the city.
This piazza was also the site of public executions until the 19th century.

The entrance of the twin churches is for FREE

Museo Leonardo da Vinci

Right in the piazza, and if you are a fanatic of the mastermind Da Vinci. Then you definitively have to get inside this museum.
The exhibits feature interactive models of Leonardo’s inventions, recreated from his original drawings, including flying machines, war devices, and anatomical studies. Visitors can explore replicas of famous artworks like the Mona Lisa and The Last Supper, gaining insight into his creative genius.

The entrance to the Museum is:

• Ticket €13

Via del Corso, Quiesas and Basilica

After exploring the Piazza like crazy and snapping hundreds of photos, take the street between the twin churches. Here, you can browse the shops, enjoy a coffee, or grab a bite to eat—perfect for recharging before your next adventure!

In this bustling street you can go inside Chiesa San Giacomo in Augusta. Its origins trace back to 1339, when Cardinal Giovanni Colonna founded a church and adjacent hospital dedicated to caring for the incurably ill.
Inside, visitors can admire the oval-shaped interior adorned with remarkable artworks, including a Resurrection by Cristoforo Roncalli and a Baptism of Christ by Domenico Passignano.

Continue down the street and you’ll see the Basilica of SS. Ambrose and Charles on the Corso, step inside to marvel at its dazzling dome, one of the largest in Rome, and the intricate frescoes that depict scenes from Saint Charles’s life. The Chapel of Saint Charles houses a relic of the saint’s heart, drawing pilgrims from around the world.

Day 3

on the last day of this three days in Rome we had the Vatican city ready to explore.

Vatican Museums

Always buy a ticket before hand, because this is a must when visiting Rome.
The Vatican Museums are a treasure trove of art, history, and culture, making them one of the most visited attractions in the world. Founded by Pope Julius II in the 16th century, these museums house an astonishing collection spanning thousands of years, from ancient Roman artefacts to Renaissance masterpieces.

A visit takes you through ornate galleries, including the Gallery of Maps, the Raphael Rooms, and, of course, the legendary Sistine Chapel, with its breathtaking ceiling painted by Michelangelo.
The Vatican Museums stretch over 9 miles of exhibits, so wear comfortable shoes—you’ll need them! Each year, over 6 million visitors walk these halls, marveling at the artistic legacy of popes through the centuries.

Price of the Museum:

• Adults: €20
• Adults + skip the line: €25
• Kids under seven don’t pay

The museum is FREE on the last Sunday of every month. You can buy your tickets HERE

Piazza San Pietro

Get mesmerised by this holy place, right in front of the Basilica you can walk around this ancient and powerful site.
The Piazza San Pietro (St. Peter’s Square) is a breathtaking symbol of grandeur and spirituality, located in front of St. Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City. Designed by the legendary Gian Lorenzo Bernini in the 17th century, this monumental square was built to welcome pilgrims from around the world.

The square is framed by a magnificent colonnade of 284 columns and 140 statues of saints, symbolising the embrace of the Church. At its centre stands a towering Egyptian obelisk, dating back to 37 AD, flanked by two beautiful fountains.

If you stand on one of the marble disks in the square, the colonnades align perfectly, creating the illusion of a single row of columns.
Make sure to see the statue called Angels Unawares. In 2019, was the first statue added to the square in over 350 years. The 20-foot bronze statue depicts a life-sized group of 140 migrants and refugees.

St. Peter’s Basilica

The biggest Basilica in the world! And it’s not only big, it’s humongous! You can spend a whole day looking at the intricate details inside this place!

St. Peter’s Basilica, the heart of Vatican City, is one of the most iconic and awe-inspiring churches in the world. Built on the site where St. Peter, the first pope, was buried, it took over 120 years to complete, with contributions from legendary architects like Michelangelo, Bernini, and Bramante. The current basilica was finished in 1626, making it a masterpiece of Renaissance and Baroque art.

The dome, designed by Michelangelo, dominates the Roman skyline and offers breathtaking views of the city if you’re up for the climb. Inside, marvel at treasures like Bernini’s Baldachin, Michelangelo’s Pietà, and the ornate Altar of St. Peter.

The Basilica can hold over 60,000 people.
The entrance of the Basilica is FREE.

Castel Sant’Angelo

Only ten minutes walking and out of the Vatican city you can find this ancient mausoleum.
Originally built by Emperor Hadrian in 135 AD as a mausoleum for himself and his family, it was later transformed into a fortress and papal residence. Over the centuries, the castle has served many purposes, including a military stronghold and a prison.

The circular structure with its massive walls and the statue of the Angel on top (which gave the castle its name) dominates the skyline along the Tiber River. Visitors can explore its rich history, from its tomb origins to its use as a papal refuge during medieval times. Inside, there are beautiful rooms, galleries, and a fascinating collection of weapons and art.

The castle is linked to the Vatican by a secret passageway, known as the Passetto di Borgo, which was used by popes to escape in times of danger.

Try to be there for sunset as this is one of the best views of the river Tiber and the Vatican city.

Price of the Castle:

• Adults : €18

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