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Sample itinerary · Rome, Italy

3 days in Rome

This plan suits first-time visitors who want a mix of ancient history, famous sights, great pasta, and lively evening spots. The days are grouped by neighborhood to keep walking to a minimum.

Photos by Chris Czermak, Michele Bitetto, Claudio Hirschberger, Spencer Davis on Unsplash

Make this my tripCopies every day into your own trip — then change anything, add flights and stays, and invite your crew.

Day 1 Ancient Rome and Monti

  1. 9:00 AM
    The Colosseum Historic

    Walk through the massive ancient amphitheater. Book your timed entry tickets online weeks in advance to skip the long lines.

  2. 11:30 AM
    Roman Forum Historic

    Stroll among the ruins of government buildings and temples. Wear comfortable shoes for the uneven stone paths.

  3. 1:30 PM
    Monti Neighborhood Food

    Grab lunch at a casual local trattoria. Try a classic bowl of cacio e pepe pasta.

  4. 4:00 PM
    Capitoline Hill Sight

    Enjoy views overlooking the ancient ruins from the public square designed by Michelangelo.

  5. 7:30 PM
    Monti Night

    Have an evening aperitivo of local wine and snacks at a neighborhood piazza bar.

Day 2 Vatican and Trastevere

  1. 8:30 AM
    Vatican Museums Museum

    See vast art collections and the Sistine Chapel. Dress with shoulders and knees covered to meet dress codes.

  2. 11:30 AM
    St. Peter's Basilica Sight

    Enter the massive church to see Michelangelo's Pietà. Security lines move fast, but expect crowds.

  3. 1:30 PM
    Prati Neighborhood Food

    Stop for a quick slice of pizza al taglio near the metro station.

  4. 4:00 PM
    Castel Sant'Angelo Historic

    Cross the bridge to the fortress built as a mausoleum for Emperor Hadrian.

  5. 7:00 PM
    Trastevere Night

    Wander the lively medieval streets for dinner and drinks at a bustling neighborhood pub or wine bar.

Day 3 Heart of the City

  1. 9:00 AM
    Pantheon Historic

    Step inside the best-preserved ancient Roman building with its famous dome oculus. Check ticket rules for entry.

  2. 10:30 AM
    Trevi Fountain Sight

    Throw a coin over your right shoulder into the water to ensure a return trip to Rome.

  3. 12:00 PM
    Spanish Steps Sight

    Walk up the famous monumental stairway. Keep in mind that sitting on the steps is currently restricted.

  4. 1:30 PM
    Centro Storico Food

    Eat lunch at a classic café and follow it with artisan gelato.

  5. 5:00 PM
    Piazza Navona Explore

    Watch street artists and performers in the lively oval square surrounded by fountains and outdoor cafes.

Tips for this trip

  • Most U.S. credit cards work everywhere for contactless tap payments, but keep some euros cash handy for small cafes and gelato.
  • Expect to walk several miles each day on hard cobblestones, so supportive footwear is essential.
  • Make restaurant reservations a few days ahead for popular dinner spots, especially on weekends.
  • Keep a light scarf or wrap in your bag to easily cover your shoulders for entry into churches.
Rome travel guideWhen to go, where to stay, what to eat and what it costsPlan a custom Rome tripYour dates, your interests, your pace — built by Huginn

Huginn’s sample plans are AI-written starting points — check opening hours and book timed tickets before you go.