3 Days in Rome – What to See

Planning 3 days in Rome and wondering what to see first? You’re in the right place.
Rome is not just a city – it’s an open-air museum, a living timeline of emperors, artists, and popes. With ancient ruins, cobblestone streets, creamy gelato, and that unmistakable Italian energy, this city will steal your heart within hours.

This 3-day Rome itinerary covers the top places to visit in Rome, Italy, including must-see landmarks like the Colosseum, Vatican City, and the Trevi Fountain — plus some hidden gems locals love.

Day 1 – Ancient Rome: Where History Comes Alive

Your first day in Rome should be all about walking through the pages of history.

Morning: The Colosseum and Roman Forum

Start early and head straight to the Colosseum, one of the top ten things to do in Rome, Italy. Built in 80 AD, it once hosted gladiator fights and public spectacles.

Tips:

• Buy a skip-the-line ticket — queues can exceed 2 hours.
• Visit in the morning before crowds arrive.
• Bring water — summers are hot, with weather in Rome often above 30 °C (86 °F).

After exploring the arena, continue to the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill next door — once the political and spiritual heart of Ancient Rome.

Afternoon: Piazza Venezia & Capitoline Hill

Walk up Via dei Fori Imperiali to Piazza Venezia, dominated by the massive white Altare della Patria. Climb the terrace for panoramic city views. Then stroll to Capitoline Hill, designed by Michelangelo himself.

Evening: Trastevere Dinner

As the sun sets, cross the Tiber River into the bohemian neighborhood of Trastevere. Its narrow streets and fairy-light trattorias are perfect for your first Roman evening. Try carbonara or cacio e pepe with a glass of local Frascati wine.

Day 2 – The Vatican and Baroque Rome

Day two takes you to the world’s smallest country and the heart of Catholicism.

Morning: Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel

Even if you’re not religious, the art collection here is jaw-dropping. Raphael, Michelangelo, and Da Vinci – all under one roof. Don’t miss the Sistine Chapel ceiling.

Pro tip: Pre-book an early-morning entrance to enjoy the galleries before the rush.

Afternoon: St Peter’s Basilica & Castel Sant’Angelo

After exiting the museums, enter St Peter’s Basilica – one of the most stunning churches in the world. Climb to the dome for a breathtaking view over St Peter’s Square.
Then walk along the river to Castel Sant’Angelo, originally built as Emperor Hadrian’s mausoleum.

Evening: Piazza Navona & Pantheon

Spend your evening wandering around Piazza Navona, with its famous Bernini fountains, and grab a gelato from Gelateria Frigidarium nearby. Just five minutes away stands the Pantheon, almost 2000 years old and still perfectly preserved.

Day 3 – La Dolce Vita: Fountains, Squares & Local Life

By day three, you’ve seen the big sights — now it’s time to slow down and feel the city.

Morning: Trevi Fountain & Spanish Steps

Start at the Trevi Fountain — toss a coin over your left shoulder to ensure you’ll return to Rome! It’s one of the must-visit places in Rome and a photo hotspot early in the morning.
Next, climb the Spanish Steps to enjoy the view of Via dei Condotti, lined with luxury boutiques.

Afternoon: Villa Borghese & Local Lunch

Take a leisurely walk through Villa Borghese Gardens, a green escape from the city buzz. Visit Galleria Borghese to admire Caravaggio and Bernini masterpieces.
For lunch, grab a slice of the best pizza in Rome at Bonci Pizzarium near Vatican City — famous for its creative toppings.

Evening: Aperitivo & Tiber Views

End your 3 days in Rome with an aperitivo — a pre-dinner drink with snacks. Head to Tiber Island or Campo de’ Fiori, where you can sip a spritz as the sun dips behind ancient rooftops.

Local Secrets & Hidden Gems

• Aventine Keyhole (View of St Peter’s): A magical view through a garden keyhole on Aventine Hill.
• Testaccio Market: Authentic Roman food and fewer tourists.
• Appian Way (Via Appia Antica): Rent a bike and ride along ancient Roman roads lined with catacombs.
• Gianicolo Hill: The best free viewpoint in Rome, especially at sunset.
• Largo di Torre Argentina: Ruins that double as a cat sanctuary!

Weather in Rome & When to Visit

• Spring (Mar–May): Best time – mild weather (17–25 °C) and blooming parks.
• Summer (Jun–Aug): Hot (30 °C +); bring sunscreen and stay hydrated.
• Autumn (Sep–Nov): Fewer crowds, pleasant evenings.
• Winter (Dec–Feb): Cool (10–15 °C); perfect for budget travelers.

Quick Travel Tips

• Public Transport: Rome’s metro has only three lines – buy a 72-hour pass for €18.
• Water: Tap water is safe and fresh from public fountains.
• Safety: Beware of pickpockets in crowded areas.
• Dress Code: Cover shoulders and knees when visiting churches.
• Language: Basic Italian phrases go a long way (“Grazie”, “Buongiorno”).

Rome is a city that never runs out of stories. In just three days you’ll walk where emperors once stood, marvel at Michelangelo’s art, and taste pizza so good you’ll dream about it for weeks.

So pack comfortable shoes, bring your camera, and get ready to fall in love with the Eternal City.