The Perfect 3-Day Rome Itinerary: My Personal Experience in the Eternal City
Rome – a city where the past and present seamlessly collide. From awe-inspiring ancient ruins to charming cafes tucked in narrow streets, there’s something for everyone. I had the pleasure of spending three unforgettable days in this historic city, and I’m here to share my itinerary with you. Whether you're a history lover, foodie, or just visiting for the first time, this guide will help you make the most of your Roman getaway.
Day 1: Embracing Ancient Rome
Day one in Rome is all about stepping into the heart of the city’s rich history. Get ready to explore iconic landmarks and immerse yourself in ancient Rome.
Morning: Colosseum & Roman Forum
Start the day with a classic Italian breakfast – cappuccino and cornetto (Italian croissant) at a local café.
Colosseum:
Pre-book a skip-the-line tour via GetYourGuide.
Explore the ancient amphitheater, where gladiators once fought. Don’t forget to take photos of the magnificent structure.
Tip: Make sure to take the audio guide or join a tour to fully appreciate its history.
Roman Forum & Palatine Hill:
Just a short walk from the Colosseum, these ruins offer a glimpse into ancient Roman life.
The Palatine Hill offers a fantastic view of the city.
Midday: Lunch at a Local Trattoria
Where to Eat: A trattoria near Piazza Venezia.
Try Cacio e Pepe, a classic Roman pasta made with Pecorino Romano cheese and black pepper.
Price range: €10-15 for a pasta dish.
Afternoon: Pantheon & Piazza Navona
Pantheon:
One of the most well-preserved ancient buildings in Rome.
Don’t miss the stunning oculus and the beautiful interior.
Piazza Navona:
Stroll through this lively square, famous for its Baroque fountains and street performers.
Evening: Dinner at Trattoria da Augusto
Where to Eat: Trattoria da Augusto, near Campo de’ Fiori.
Enjoy a classic Roman dish like Saltimbocca alla Romana (veal with prosciutto and sage).
Average cost: €20-25 for a main dish.
Day 2: Vatican City & Hidden Gems
Day two takes you to Vatican City and some of Rome’s lesser-known treasure
Morning: St. Peter's Basilica & Vatican Museums
St. Peter’s Basilica:
Visit early to avoid crowds. Climb to the dome for breathtaking views of the city.
Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel:
Book a guided tour via GetYourGuide for an in-depth experience.
Don’t miss Michelangelo’s famous frescoes in the Sistine Chapel.
Tip: The Vatican Museums are vast, so pace yourself and take your time.
Midday: Lunch Near Vatican
Where to Eat: Piazza del Risorgimento area.
Try a Porchetta Sandwich – slow-roasted pork with herbs and spices.
Price range: €5-10 for a sandwich.
Afternoon: Trastevere Neighborhood
Explore Trastevere:
A charming neighborhood known for its narrow cobblestone streets and colorful buildings.
Visit Santa Maria in Trastevere, one of Rome’s oldest churches, famous for its stunning mosaics.
Gelato Stop:
Don’t miss a gelato break while wandering through the area.
Evening: Dinner in Trastevere
Where to Eat: Da Enzo al 29 in Trastevere.
Try the Amatriciana pasta made with guanciale (cured pork cheek).
Price range: €15-20 for a pasta dish.
Day 3: Art, Culture & Relaxation
Your final day in Rome is a perfect mix of art, culture, and relaxation.
Morning: Borghese Gallery & Gardens
Borghese Gallery:
Home to masterpieces by Caravaggio, Bernini, and Raphael.
Booking ahead is essential, as the museum has strict time slots.
Borghese Gardens:
After the museum, enjoy a peaceful stroll in the beautiful park.
Midday: Lunch at Antico Caffè Greco
Where to Eat: Piazza di Spagna area.
Enjoy a classic Carbonara pasta at this historic café.
Average cost: €15-20 for a pasta dish.
Afternoon: Explore Roman Piazzas & Shopping
Piazza del Popolo:
A grand square that marks the entrance to Rome’s historic center.
Via del Corso:
Rome’s main shopping street, perfect for window-shopping or picking up a souvenir.
Trevi Fountain:
Make sure to throw a coin into the fountain to ensure your return to Rome!
Evening: Fine Dining at La Pergola
Where to Eat: La Pergola – Rome’s only three-star Michelin restaurant.
Indulge in a tasting menu for an unforgettable culinary experience.
Expect to spend €150-200 per person for a Michelin-level meal.
Where to Stay in Rome
During my stay in Rome, I opted for Hotel Artemide, a stylish 4-star hotel in the city center. It’s within walking distance of major attractions like the Trevi Fountain and Pantheon. The hotel has excellent service and a fantastic breakfast spread.
Alternative Budget Option: Look for guesthouses or boutique hotels in Trastevere. This area offers a more relaxed vibe and is less touristy, with great options for those looking to save a bit more.
Cost of Living in Rome
Rome can be affordable or extravagant, depending on your preferences. Here’s a quick breakdown of what I spent:
Accommodation: €100-150 per night (mid-range hotel).
Meals:
Budget: €5-15 for a quick bite or street food.
Mid-range: €20-30 per person for a sit-down meal.
Activities & Attractions:
Skip-the-line tours (Colosseum, Vatican Museums) via GetYourGuide cost around €30-50.
Entry to museums like the Borghese Gallery costs about €15-20.
Overall, I spent about €300-350 per day for accommodation, meals, and activities.
Final Thoughts
Rome truly is the Eternal City, offering a perfect blend of history, culture, and culinary delights. My three days there flew by in the blink of an eye, but I felt like I had experienced the best the city has to offer. From ancient ruins to world-class art and unforgettable food, Rome will always have a special place in my heart. I can’t wait to return!
Quick Tips for Your Trip:
Wear Comfortable Shoes: You’ll be walking a lot, so make sure your shoes are up to the task.
Book Tours in Advance: Skip-the-line tickets can save you a lot of time, especially at popular sites like the Colosseum and Vatican Museums.
Keep Cash Handy: While credit cards are widely accepted, some smaller places may prefer cash.
First time traveling: check our Essential Travel Tips for First-Time Travelers.