You have only 3 days in Rome and are wondering what to see on your Rome itinerary and how to optimize your time? This ultimate guide covers the must-see attractions, hidden gems, and tips for an unforgettable Roman holiday.
With proper trip planning, three days in Rome can actually be enough for at least the main historic sites. Here is a handy itinerary to help you explore the most important landmarks like the Colosseum and the Vatican, and the most famous neighborhoods such as Trastevere.
Our 3-day Rome itinerary is pretty full of things to see, so for lunch and dinner, you might opt for a casual meal, especially for lunch so you avoid getting heavy and you will save much time for your sightseeing. For lunch, you can pick a deli for a hearty sandwich, some street food such as pizza al taglio (pizza by the slice), or even some delicacies found at a local food market.
Three days in Rome might not be enough to see everything the city has to offer, but if you plan properly and are ready to walk, you will be able to touch on a very good deal of Rome attractions and landmarks that should be in your Rome itinerary.
Another tip is to reserve and book online as many attractions as you can, especially the most crowded ones such as the Coliseum and the Vatican Museums.
3 Days in Rome Itinerary: Day 1 – Discover Centro Storico, Trastevere, and Rome’s Jewish Quarter
Map of day 1 of your 3-day Rome itinerary
Start Your 3-Day Rome Itinerary at Campo de’ Fiori
Start your day early morning in Campo deʼ Fiori and visit the local market that takes place here from Monday to Saturday, a must-see spot in any 3 days in Rome itinerary. You can buy anything from fresh fruits and veggies, pasta, dips and sauce, Italian dried herbs, clothes, and kitchenware.
In the middle of one of Rome’s prettiest piazzas is the tall statue of Giordano Bruno, the Italian friar, and philosopher who was burnt at the stake right here in 1600 with the accusation of heresy. This is one of the places to visit if you have three days or even only two days in Rome.
Explore Trastevere’s Streets and Hidden Gems
An easy stroll across the river will take you to Trastevere. This gentrified former working-class neighborhood is one of the most popular and definitely one of the places to visit in Rome in 3 days.
Full of restaurants, bars, and some of the best gelato places, Trastevere attracts young people who want to chill out and in-the-know travelers on the lookout for hidden history and artwork.
Some of the places you shouldn’t miss in Trastevere are Santa Maria in Trastevere Basilica, the first-ever church officially devoted to the Virgin Mary, and Santa Cecilia in Trastevere Basilica with its stunning Byzantine crypt and ancient undergrounds, amazingly a lesser-known church in Rome.
Not many know of it, but while strolling around Trastevere’s picturesque alleys, you can access the Renaissance building Villa Farnesina to see the amazing frescoes by Italian painter Raphael.
If you are in Trastevere lunchtime, stop at the traditional restaurant Da Enzo al 29 (Via Vascellari 29). They don’t take bookings for lunch, so if the queue is too long, just head to the Jewish Ghetto and stop there for a nice Kosher meal and to try some of the most popular foods in Rome.
I wrote an ebook with four self-guided walks in Rome in four different neighborhoods, Trastevere included, so that you can explore the city at your own pace, without a guide, and visit popular landmarks as well as hidden gems. Check it out here!
Discover the History of the Jewish Quarter
Rome’s Jewish Ghetto, a must-see in any list of what to do in Rome, is not Europe’s oldest, but second only to Venice when it comes to age. From Trastevere, cross Ponte Cestio bridge to get to the Jewish quarter via the fascinating Tiber island. On the way, you can stop for a coffee and enjoy the view of the river and Rome’s landmarks.
From the island, to reach the Ghetto, cross Ponte Fabricio. This is Rome’s oldest bridge, the only one kept as it was originally built.
Stroll around the historic neighborhood and visit places like the Tempio Maggiore synagogue, the Jewish Museum, and the ruins of one of Rome’s ancient porches, Portico d’Ottavia. Everything is around the iconic Fontana delle Tartarughe (Turtles’ Fountain), one of Rome’s most beautiful fountains.
The Jewish Ghetto is particularly popular for its traditional Kosher restaurants. So if you are here just in time for lunch, stop at Nonna Betta. Outstanding is their “carciofo alla giudia“, Jewish-style artichoke, a must when in season.
Visit Largo di Torre Argentina and its Famous Cats
The lovely feline colony is not the only reason to stop at Largo di Torre Argentina on your 3-day trip to Rome. This archaeological site was a sacred area and it’s the place where Julius Caesar was killed.
Surrounded by shops and restaurants, it’s strategically located in the middle of all important landmarks, the Jewish Ghetto, Campo de’ Fiori and the Pantheon. If you are here for lunch, stop at Emma Pizzeria con Cucina restaurant.
Step Inside the Pantheon – A Must-See in Rome
Originally devoted to all gods, the Pantheon has one of the world’s largest domes. Located in the heart of the historic center, this is one of the top things to do in Rome in 3 days.
Built around 2000 years ago, its perfect architecture makes it one of the most famous temples in the world. It hosts the graves of some members of the former Italian royal family, the Savoys, and the tomb of Italian painter Raffaello Sanzio.
If you are in the area on time for a nice gelato, either head to Piazza Sant’Eustachio for a treat at Gunther Gelato Italiano or go to Via Pantheon for Gelateria Fiocco di Neve.
Admire Piazza Navona and its Stunning Fountains
Piazza Navona is an easy stroll from the Pantheon. If you arrive from Corso Rinascimento you can directly tuck in its landmarks or first treat yourself with a delicious gelato from GROM on the piazza’s northern end.
The oval-shaped square was built on top of the ancient Domitian Stadium, the relics of which you can visit from Via di Tor Sanguigna 3. As soon as you get to Piazza Navona, you will see the majestic Four Rivers Fountain by Italian artist Bernini. Located right in the middle, it faces the Baroque church of Santa Agnese in Agone by architect Borromini, one of Rome’s most famous churches.
Towards the northern edge of the piazza is another important sculpture, the 16th-century Fountain of Neptune. On the southern edge, facing Palazzo Pamphilj (today seat of the Brazilian Embassy) is the Fontana del Moro, another 16th-century marble fountain featuring Triton sculptures. If you are in for a casual meal or a coffee, at this end of the piazza is Vivi Bistrot.
Toss a Coin at the Iconic Trevi Fountain
Your Rome three-day itinerary wonʼt be complete without a stop to admire one of the top landmarks featured in any Rome travel guide, the gorgeous Baroque-style Trevi Fountain. Built on the line of a Roman aqueduct, Rome’s most famous fountain was built in the 18th century and features the Ocean by Pietro Bacci in the middle.
Snap the mandatory postcard pictures and throw a coin in to make sure you come back to Rome.
Just because it’s a very touristy area, it doesn’t mean you can’t find good restaurants, right? And this is when you need local insight. Check out Il Piccolo Buco (Via del Lavatore 91) for a great pizza in Rome or a traditional pasta dish, and San Crispino (Via della Panetteria 42) for delicious artisan gelato.
Climb the Spanish Steps in Piazza di Spagna
Famous all over the world for the marble staircase known as the Spanish Steps, Piazza di Spagna is one of those landmarks you can’t miss in 3 days in Rome. The local council has recently ruled that the staircase is an actual historic site, not a bench to eat and drink as it has been used up to now.
What does this mean? That you can’t sit on it but you have the unprecedented chance to admire the Spanish Steps in all their beauty connecting the piazza to Trinità dei Monti church. This is why they were built in the first place.
End Your First Day at Piazza del Popolo
From the Spanish Steps, you can make your way to Piazza del Popolo in many ways. Pretty much all of them involve plenty of window shopping. Whether you decide to go via the main road Via del Corso, the lovely Via del Babuino or the back alleys, you will need strong willpower not to fork out good cash in all those tempting boutique stores.
This is the piazza where Rome’s oldest obelisk stands. From here you can go to Villa Borghese Park and enjoy the view of Piazza del Popolo from its panoramic Pincio terrace, one of the most romantic places in Rome to bring your date.
3 Days in Rome Itinerary: Day 2 – Tour Ancient Rome’s Must-See Historic Sites
Map of day 2 of your 3-day Rome itinerary
Start Day 2 with a Walk Along Via dei Fori Imperiali
If you are still wondering what to do in Rome in 3 days, the second day of our itinerary starts early morning with a fascinating walk along Via dei Fori Imperiali.
This is the road of almost 1 km that goes from Piazza Venezia to the Colosseum. This Roman archaeological site is closed to the public but from outside you can see the temples and fora from where the emperors made their speeches. The most important imperial fora are the ones of Julius Caesar, Augustus, Nerva and Trajan, near which you can visit Trajan’s Markets, from where you get access to the ruins of the forum itself.
Visit the Colosseum – A Symbol of Rome
Even if you are only 3 days in Rome, if it’s your first time in the city, visiting one of the top Rome attractions, the Colosseum, is a must. You can either visit only the general access areas or also those accessible only with a certified tour guide.
Either way, the best way to save time is to buy a skip-the-line Colosseum ticket or book a private tour that will give you exclusive access to the arena and the dungeons. Usually, tours to the Colosseum include also the Roman Forum.
Book your single skip-the-line ticket to Colosseum and Roman Forum
Explore the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill
Your Colosseum ticket, valid for two days, gives you access also to the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill, believed to be the first settlement where Rome was founded. This is another important archaeological site and a must-see in Rome in 3 days.
The heart of ancient Rome, here is where politics, trade, and social life happened. Temples, villas, roads and Julius Caesar’s burial altar make this one of the top things to do in Rome in 3 days.
Make sure you read our article on the birthday of Rome on how the city was founded.
Discover San Clemente Basilica’s Underground Layers
Under this medieval church are two layers of history and archaeological sites. Right below, you will find an early Christian Basilica and one floor below are ancient Roman streets, the Roman mint, and a Mithraic school and temple.
Relax at the Ancient Baths of Caracalla
The Baths of Caracalla are a fantastic relic that shows a piece of daily life in ancient Rome, where baths were an important part of the citizens’ routine.
You will see how they were organized. There are the calidarium and frigidarium for hot and cold water respectively. Then the tepidarium, the room for the passage from the hot to the cold water. You can also visit the underground with the library and from where the slaves used to feed the boilers with wood.
Visit Museo Nazionale Romano at Diocletian Baths
If you are still up for some ancient Roman vestiges, the Museo Nazionale Romano near Termini will definitely add value to your 3 days in Rome. This museum is dislocated in several spaces. The one you can’t miss is set in the ruins of Diocletian Baths.
The huge collection of findings from imperial times with working tools, decorations related to different periods, and different types of buildings make it a cool site to visit in Rome. Here history lovers can really dig deep into Rome’s ancient past.
3 Days in Rome Itinerary: Day 3 – Explore Vatican City and Rome’s Hidden Treasures
Map of day 3 of your 3-day Rome itinerary
Start Early at the Vatican Museums
The last of your 3 days in Rome will be devoted to the treasures of the Vatican City, a highlight in any Rome in 3 days itinerary. Due to the ever-present long queue and the huge amount of things to see, it’s a good idea to start from the Vatican Museums.
After viewing the mandatory Sistine Chapel painted by Michelangelo, don’t miss Raphael’s Rooms, the Statues Courtyard, and the Gallery of the Maps, the Tapestries, and the Candelabra.
Find the best private tours of the Vatican and Vatican Museums
Explore St. Peter’s Square and Its Architecture
Find the manholes in the square, stand on them and you will see the pillars of the famous colonnade aligning perfectly, one of the most important works of Bernini in Rome. This is only one of the things that make St. Peter’s Square famous and what to do in Rome in 3 days if it’s your first time.
The beautiful facade of the basilica dominates the view, but that’s not the only thing you will see. Fountains, the statues of St. Peter and St. Paul, and the obelisk make this one of the world’s most beautiful squares. If you visit Rome for Christmas, don’t miss the Christmas tree and the nativity scene in St. Peter’s Square.
READ MORE: Guide to the best Vatican tours
Visit St. Peter’s Basilica and See Michelangelo’s Masterpieces
Once you are done with the square, join the line to enter St. Peter’s Basilica. You will notice it’s pretty big but it won’t take long because all you need to do is go through the metal detector. The basilica is free to enter and a must even if you have only 3 days in Rome.
At the entrance, head to the right to view the famous sculpture La Pietà by Michelangelo Buonarroti. Take in the stunning decorations, sculptures, mosaics, St. Peter’s baldachin, and obviously the wonderful dome, this, too, is Michelangelo’s work. If you have some time left, you can access the crypt where several popes are buried.
READ MORE: For more about what to visit in the Vatican and how to book the different landmarks, check out our detailed Vatican guide.
Descend to the Roman Necropolis and Nero’s Circus
The Roman necropolis on top of which St. Peter’s Basilica was built is a very fascinating site in the Vatican, but you need to plan it well in advance. Booking is mandatory as only 250 people per day are allowed in. This is why depending on the time you visit the necropolis, you will probably have to tweak the itinerary of your third day in Rome.
This Roman necropolis lies some 11 meters below St. Peter’s Basilica and next to Nero’s Circus, where Saint Peter was martyred. Here is where the saint is buried. You will also see several pagan graves lying side by side with the tombs of their Christian slaves.
Visit Castel Sant’Angelo (Hadrian’s Mausoleum)
When done with all the sights in St. Peter’s Square, walk along Via della Conciliazione to reach the Hadrian Mausoleum. Over the centuries, it has served different purposes.
Built as the tomb of Emperor Hadrian in 135 AD, Castel Sant’Angelo has also been used as a medieval stronghold, residence and political prison. It’s connected to the Vatican through the so-called “Passetto”. This is a long wall erected to protect the Vatican from the Saracen invasions. This way, the Pope and high prelates could head to Castel Sant’Angelo when in need of shelter.
End Your Day Strolling Through Borgo Pio
Complete your Vatican tour day with a relaxing walk in the quaint Borgo Pio street. Located between the Vatican City and Castel Sant’Angelo, Borgo Pio is named after the pope who ordered its construction in 1565, Pius IV.
In the pope’s note, the requirement for a privileged, clean and healthy neighborhood was specified. It was erected at a slightly higher level than the river to stave off the risk of flood and even a sewerage network was built.
Today, Borgo Pio is the place to buy religious souvenirs, have a delicious gelato at Hedera ice cream shop, and have a nice meal in one of the restaurants lined up, al fresco in the warm season.
Tips to save time and money in Rome
As someone who has lived in Rome for decades, I know some of the best ways to make the most of your time and budget while exploring the city. Here are my insider tips:
Book tickets online and use a Rome City Pass
The best way to save time during your 3 days in Rome is to book tickets to the most popular landmarks online before you arrive. While you don’t need to book all your sightseeing spots in advance, I highly recommend securing tickets for the Vatican Museums and the Colosseum, as these are the most crowded attractions. You can book directly from the official Vatican Museums website or use trusted platforms like Get Your Guide for quick and easy bookings.
If you are planning an intensive sightseeing trip, consider purchasing a 3-day Rome City Pass. This pass offers:
- Skip-the-line entrance to major attractions like the Colosseum and Vatican Museums.
- Discounted entry to additional landmarks.
- Unlimited access to public transport and hop-on-hop-off buses for 72 hours from first use.
Visit free attractions
Rome is full of free attractions that are just as beautiful as the paid ones. Some of my favorites include Piazza Navona and its stunning fountains, Sant’Angelo Bridge, the Spanish Steps, and Trevi Fountain. If you’re looking for a quiet stroll in the park, I recommend taking a walk through the Villa Borghese Gardens: even though it will be busy, it’s very big so you can ejoy a peaceful break from the bustling city.
Explore Rome on foot
One of the best things about Rome is that you can easily explore many of its most famous landmarks on foot. Whenever I walk around the city, I stumble upon new hidden gems. Walking between sites like the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Pantheon not only saves you money but also gives you a chance to discover more of Rome’s charm.
Eat like a local
As a local, I know the best places to avoid tourist traps and eat where the Romans eat. Head to neighborhoods like Testaccio or San Lorenzo for authentic Roman cuisine at a fraction of the price of restaurants near the main attractions.
Use public fountains for free water
Don’t waste money buying bottled water. I always carry a reusable water bottle and fill it up at the nasoni, Rome’s public drinking fountains. You’ll find these fountains all over the city, and the water is completely safe to drink.
Take advantage of free museum days
On the first and last Sunday of every month, several museums and archaeological sites offer free entry. This is the perfect chance to visit the Colosseum, Roman Forum, Vatican Museums, and more without spending a euro.
While the city’s museums and archaeological sites are free every first Sunday of the month, the Vatican Museums are free every last Sunday.
Just keep in mind that these days tend to be busy, so I suggest getting there early or two hours before closing for a more relaxed visit.
Use public transport instead of taxis
Rome’s public transport system in the city center is efficient and much cheaper than taxis. I always recommend getting a multi-day travel pass, which gives you unlimited rides on buses, trams, and the metro.
This is the best way to get around without breaking the bank. If you still need a cab from time to time, which is very likely, read my guide to Rome taxis.
Visit churches for stunning art
Some of Rome’s most beautiful art is tucked away in its churches, and most of them are free to enter. One of my personal favorites is San Luigi dei Francesi, where you can see Caravaggio’s masterpieces. Another gem is San Pietro in Vincoli, home to Michelangelo’s stunning sculpture of Moses.
Plan your visit early or late
To avoid the crowds, I always recommend visiting the most popular sites either early in the morning or later in the afternoon. This gives you a better chance to enjoy places like the Vatican Museums and Colosseum without the long lines and big crowds.
Don’t miss our guide to help you decide how many days you need in Rome!
Where to stay in Rome for 3 days
Three days in Rome is a short amount of time, but if you plan your itinerary carefully and use public transport efficiently, you can still explore the city to the fullest. Choosing the right accommodation is key to making the most of your limited time.
If you can afford it, it’s best to book a hotel in the Rome city center. Staying centrally will save you time in the mornings and allow you to start your sightseeing bright and early.
If staying in the historic center is beyond your budget, there are plenty of other neighborhoods that offer affordable options while keeping you close to major attractions or conveniently located near metro stations, trains, and bus stops. Here are some recommended areas to stay in Rome:
- Centro Storico (Historic Center): Ideal for first-time visitors who want to be close to major landmarks like Piazza Navona and the Pantheon.
- Trastevere: A vibrant, local neighborhood known for its charming streets and nightlife.
- Prati: Close to the Vatican, this area offers quieter accommodations while still being near key attractions.
- Termini: Convenient for those arriving by train and looking for budget-friendly options.
- Monti: A trendy area near the Colosseum, perfect for boutique hotels and local dining.
- San Giovanni: For those looking for affordable hotels in a more residential district while still being connected by metro.
Frequently asked questions about spending 3 days in Rome
Is 3 days in Rome enough to see the main attractions?
Yes, 3 days in Rome is enough to visit the city’s top attractions, including the Colosseum, Vatican City, the Pantheon, and local neighborhoods like Trastevere. Our 3-day Rome itinerary ensures that you maximize your time while exploring both must-see landmarks and hidden gems.
What is the best itinerary for 3 days in Rome?
The best itinerary includes exploring key historical sites like the Colosseum and Roman Forum on day 1, Vatican City and St. Peter’s Basilica on day 2, and experiencing local neighborhoods such as Trastevere and the Jewish Quarter on day 3. This mix of popular attractions and off-the-beaten-path spots will make your 3 days in Rome unforgettable.
How much should I budget for 3 days in Rome?
A budget for 3 days in Rome depends on your travel style. On average, a mid-range traveler should plan for around €100-150 per day, covering accommodation, food, and entrance fees for major attractions like the Colosseum and Vatican Museums. Opting for street food or casual dining can help save money, while city passes can reduce costs for public transport and sightseeing.
What should I pack for 3 days in Rome?
When packing for 3 days in Rome, be sure to bring comfortable walking shoes as you’ll be exploring a lot on foot. A lightweight backpack, sunscreen, a reusable water bottle, and modest clothing for visiting religious sites like St. Peter’s Basilica are also essential. Don’t forget a portable phone charger to keep your devices powered during your sightseeing.
Can I visit the Vatican and Colosseum in one day?
While it is possible to visit both the Vatican and the Colosseum in one day, it may feel rushed. We recommend splitting these iconic attractions between two days to fully appreciate each. For instance, dedicate one full day to exploring the Vatican Museums, St. Peter’s Basilica, and nearby Castel Sant’Angelo, and another day to Ancient Rome’s Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill.
What are the best neighborhoods to stay in Rome for a 3-day trip?
For a 3-day trip to Rome, the best neighborhoods to stay in are the Centro Storico (Historic Center) for proximity to attractions like Piazza Navona and the Pantheon, Trastevere for a more local and vibrant vibe, and Prati for easy access to the Vatican. Staying in these areas will save you time on transportation and allow you to make the most of your short stay.
How do I get around Rome in 3 days?
Rome has an efficient public transport system, including buses, metro, and trams, making it easy to navigate the city. However, many attractions are within walking distance, especially in the historic center. Consider purchasing a Roma Pass or Rome City Card to access public transport and skip-the-line entry to key attractions during your 3-day visit.
What are the must-try foods in Rome for a 3-day visit?
During your 3 days in Rome, don’t miss trying classic Roman dishes like Cacio e Pepe (cheese and pepper pasta), Carbonara, and Supplì (fried rice balls). For dessert, indulge in some Gelato from local shops such as Giolitti or Fatamorgana. If you’re a fan of pizza, be sure to try Pizza al Taglio (pizza by the slice) from local delis or bakeries.
Is it worth going to Rome for 3 days?
A 3-day trip to Rome is definitely worth it, as you’ll have plenty of time to visit the city’s most famous attractions, like the Colosseum and Vatican. If it’s not your first visit, you can focus on exploring Rome’s hidden gems and lesser-known sights. With proper planning, three days is enough to experience the city, but be sure to book accommodation either in the city center or near a metro or train station to save time and avoid traffic.
Conclusion: Make the Most of Your 3-Day Roman Adventure
Loved this 3-day Rome itinerary? Don’t forget to check out our 4-day Rome itinerary for even more hidden gems and must-see spots. Subscribe to our newsletter for travel tips, and if you want personalized recommendations, click here to book my custom itinerary services.
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