Things to Do in Rome in Three Days

Rome is one of the most historically and culturally rich cities on earth. With a population of over four million, Rome is the capital of Italy and a cultural hub for art, food, and architecture. A visit to Rome can be overwhelming due to the sheer number of attractions and activities. To make the most of your vacation, it’s important to plan ahead and make sure you’ve got your priorities straight. Here’s our guide on what to do in Rome in three days.

Day One: Ancient Rome

The best way to start your three-day exploration of Rome is to take a tour of the ancient city. Start your day at the Colosseum, one of the most iconic monuments in the world. This huge structure was built in the first century AD and was used for gladiator fights and other entertainment. From there, you can visit the nearby Roman Forum and Palatine Hill to explore what remains of the ancient Roman Empire.

You can also visit the Pantheon, an ancient temple dedicated to all the gods of ancient Rome. This stunning building has remained virtually unchanged since it was built almost two thousand years ago. It’s also home to some incredible artwork and is the burial site of Raphael.

No trip to Rome would be complete without a visit to the Vatican City. This tiny nation-state within Rome is home to the Pope and is a major religious and cultural center. The Renaissance art and architecture of St Peter’s Basilica and the Sistine Chapel are simply breathtaking.

Day Two: Exploring Central Rome

On Day Two, you’ll want to explore some of the city’s famous squares and monuments. Start your day at the beautiful Piazza Navona, one of the most iconic squares in Rome. Surrounded by Baroque architecture, this square is filled with lively street performers, cafes, and restaurants.

From there, you can explore some of Rome’s other famous squares like Piazza Barberini, Piazza Spagna, and Piazza di Popolo. You can also take a walk through the city’s winding cobblestone streets. Don’t forget to visit some of the city’s iconic churches like Santa Maria Maggiore and Santa Maria della Vittoria.

In the evening, take a stroll through the picturesque Trastevere neighborhood. With its winding streets and quaint restaurants, this area is perfect for a romantic evening walk.

Day Three: Shopping and Sightseeing

On your last day in Rome, you’ll want to take advantage of some of the city’s incredible shopping opportunities. Start your day in Campo dei Fiori, one of the most popular markets in Rome. Here you can find everything from fresh produce to handmade souvenirs.

From there, you can explore some of Rome’s other famous markets like Porta Portese on Sundays or Testaccio on Saturdays. You can also explore some of Rome’s larger shopping streets like Via del Corso, Via del Babuino, or Via Condotti.

In the afternoon, take a walk through Villa Borghese, a beautiful park home to some incredible sculptures and monuments. From there, you can make your way to the Trevi Fountain, where you can make a wish or throw a coin in the water for good luck.

Popular Tours

Another great way to explore Rome is by taking a guided tour. One popular tour is a private walking tour of Ancient Rome, where you can explore some of the city’s most iconic monuments with an expert guide. This tour typically lasts about two hours and includes sights like the Colosseum, Roman Forum, Pantheon, and more. Book a private walking tour of Ancient Rome here.

If you’d like to explore some of Rome’s more modern attractions, a great option is a private tour of Modern Rome. On this tour, you’ll have an expert guide who will take you to sights like Piazza Navona, Piazza di Popolo, and Villa Borghese. The tour typically lasts about three hours and is perfect for those interested in exploring the city’s modern sights. Book a private tour of Modern Rome here.

Conclusion

Rome is an incredible city filled with history, culture, and beauty. There are so many things to see and do that it can be hard to narrow it down. Hopefully our guide has given you an idea of what to do during your three days in Rome!

An Insider’s Guide to Rome

Rome, the Eternal City, is a place of unbridled majesty and awe-inspiring sights, but beyond the popular tourist attractions lie a multitude of hidden gems that only locals know. Here’s an insider’s guide to the real Rome – the one that lives and breathes – to help you make the most of your trip.

Local Attractions: Hidden Gems

Beyond the Colosseum and the Vatican, Rome is brimming with hidden marvels. Pay a visit to Quartiere Coppedè, an enchanting neighborhood replete with whimsical architecture and Venetian-style canals that offer a unique perspective into Rome’s eclectic history.

The Appian Way, one of the first roads in Rome, is another hidden gem worth visiting. The road is lined with beautiful ruins and ancient tombs, which will transport you back in time.

Finally, head over to Via del Governo Vecchio, an eccentric street where you can find trendy local boutiques. Don’t forget to grab a gelato at Grom, a local artisanal ice-cream shop.

Dining Spots: Local Cuisine and Culture

Rome’s food culture is worth exploring beyond the traditional pasta dishes. At Supplizio, you can indulge in traditional Roman fried snacks called supplì, while Antico Forno Roscioli is the place to sample the city’s famous street food, pizza al taglio.

For a truly authentic dining experience, visit Pecorino Romano, a family-run establishment offering a seasonal menu of traditional Roman cuisine. A must-try is the cacio e pepe, a simple but delicious dish of spaghetti with pecorino cheese and black pepper.

Cultural Experiences: Traditions and Customs

One of the best cultural experiences to have in Rome is to attend a local barbershop. Yes, a barbershop! Classic Italian barbershops are a hub for socializing and chatting, and you can witness the banter and conversation for free.

Another tradition worth exploring is the aperitivo, a pre-dinner cocktail accompanied by light bites. Head to Trastevere, one of Rome’s liveliest neighborhoods, and indulge in a Spritz or a Negroni at Mercato Centrale.

Local History: Fascinating Stories

One of the most captivating stories originating from Rome is about the Caracalla Baths. The complex was built as a social hub, and its grandeur was said to be so impressive that people would come to Rome just to visit it.

Another story hails from Palazzo Doria Pamphilj, one of the largest palaces in Rome. The Pamphilj family enjoyed immense wealth and power, and their grandeur was on full display in the palace. Take a guided tour to dive deep into the history of the palace and the family that inhabited it.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

Beyond the usual tourist traps, there are a few ideas that will make your trip to Rome unforgettable. One suggestion is to take a guided tour of the Vatican Museums and the Sistine Chapel, but with a twist. Visit in the evening when the crowds have dispersed, and witness the works of Michelangelo under a mesmerizing light display.

Another idea is to rent a Vespa and experience the joys of zipping around Rome like a local. Feel the wind in your hair as you ride past the city’s stunning architecture, ancient ruins, and picturesque piazzas.

In conclusion, Rome is a city that is brimming with history, culture, and beauty. By venturing off the beaten path, you’ll get a chance to discover the Rome that only locals know, and in the process, make unforgettable memories.