If you’re planning 3 days in Rome, you’re in the perfect spot to see the city’s must-sees while still having time to enjoy it at a relaxed pace. This guide includes a detailed day-by-day itinerary covering the Colosseum, the Vatican, Rome’s most beautiful squares, charming neighborhoods, and viewpoints. You’ll also find a map, recommended tickets, budget, transport tips, and FAQs to make your trip smooth.
👉 Before you continue, if you’re still organizing your trip, I recommend checking out the full Rome travel guide and these practical guides to help you plan:
📌 Travel guides for your trip to Rome
🗓️ 3 Days in Rome Itinerary
🏛️ Day 1: Ancient Rome & Historic Center
🕘 Morning
Colosseum, Roman Forum & Palatine Hill (3–4 h): book the combined ticket in advance (early entry is best). Explore the Colosseum inside, climb the stands, walk the Forum (Via Sacra, Arch of Titus), and finish with views from Palatine Hill.
🕘 Afternoon
Piazza Venezia & the Vittoriano (optional rooftop view).
Trevi Fountain: best early morning or at night. Bring a coin if you want to follow the tradition.
Spanish Steps & Trinità dei Monti.
Pantheon (check schedule; access now controlled).
Piazza Navona to admire Bernini’s Fountain of the Four Rivers.
🕘 Evening
Trastevere: cross Ponte Sisto, enjoy dinner in a trattoria, then wander the narrow cobbled streets.
💡 Tip Day 1: Want something special? Book a night tour of illuminated Rome or a late free walking tour of the historic center.
⛪ Day 2: The Vatican, Castel Sant’Angelo & Prati
🕘 Morning
Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel (2.5–3 h): must-book timed entry.
St. Peter’s Square & Basilica: free entry (security check). Climb the dome for one of the best views of Rome.
🕘 Afternoon
Castel Sant’Angelo & Sant’Angelo Bridge for great photos.
Prati District: cafés, gelato, and shopping along Via Cola di Rienzo.
Extra time? Walk through Borgo District and Via della Conciliazione.
🕘 Evening
Head to Campo de’ Fiori & the Jewish Ghetto for dinner (try carciofo alla giudia in season) or grab pizza al taglio.
💡 Tip Day 2: Save time with a guided Vatican tour + skip-the-line access.
🖼️ Day 3: Art, Parks & Views (or Half-Day Excursion)
Option A – Art & Parks
Borghese Gallery (2 h): unmissable; tickets limited, book early.
Villa Borghese & Pincio Terrace: stroll the park and enjoy the view over Piazza del Popolo.
Walk down Via del Corso → Trevi Fountain (for a second look) → lunch in Trastevere.
End the day at Gianicolo Hill for sunset views.
Option B – Classic Rome Alternative
Appian Way (Via Appia Antica) by bike + Catacombs (San Sebastiano or San Callisto). Quiet, green, and very different from central Rome.
Option C – Half-Day Trip
Ostia Antica (ruins by the sea) or Tivoli (Villa d’Este and/or Hadrian’s Villa). Both perfect to escape the crowds.
💡 Tip Day 3: Book Borghese tickets 2–3 weeks ahead; each slot allows 2 hours only.
🎟️ Recommended bookings for your 3 days in Rome
For your 3-day trip to Rome, I recommend the following excursions:
💰 Approximate Budget (per person)
| Expense | Price (approx.) |
|---|---|
| Colosseum + Vatican tickets | €45–65 |
| Borghese Gallery or Castel Sant’Angelo | €15–25 |
| Public transport (3 days) | €18–25 |
| Meals (average menu) | €15–25 each |
| Coffee/gelato/snacks | €8–15 per day |
👉 Total estimate for 3 days: €160–240 (plus accommodation).
✈️ How to get from the airports
Fiumicino (FCO)
Leonardo Express train to Termini (fast, direct).
Regional train to Trastevere/Tiburtina (cheaper).
Direct bus to Termini (low-cost option).
Official fixed-fare taxi.
Ciampino (CIA)
Shuttle bus to Metro A (Anagnina) + metro ride.
Direct bus to Termini.
Official fixed-fare taxi.
🚶 Getting around Rome
Walking: best way in the historic center.
Metro A/B/C + buses/trams: buy single or 24/48/72-hour tickets.
Tourist passes (Roma Pass, etc.): check if it’s worth it for you.
Taxi/app rides: handy at night or for longer distances.
🍝 Where to eat in Rome
Historic center (near Trevi): pizza al taglio and casual trattorias.
Trastevere: traditional trattorias with carbonara or cacio e pepe.
Prati: cafés and artisanal gelato.
💡 Tip: Avoid overpriced menus in main squares; check side streets instead.
🛏️ Where to stay
Termini area: well-connected, budget-friendly.
Historic center (Pantheon/Navona/Trevi): top location, higher prices.
Trastevere: lively, local vibe, perfect for dining.
🗺️ Map of the Itinerary
📍 Here you can see the map with all the points of the itinerary.
💡 Tips to make the most of your 3 days
Book Colosseum, Vatican & Borghese in advance.
Start early and group sights by area.
Refill bottles at free water fountains (nasoni).
Wear comfy shoes: cobblestones + long walks.
Avoid Mondays for museums (some are closed).
Bring a scarf/shawl to cover shoulders inside churches.
❓ FAQs
Is it worth going to Rome for 3 days?
Absolutely. With a smart itinerary, 3 days in Rome are enough to see the essentials, taste local food, and feel the city’s vibe.
Is Rome expensive to visit?
Not cheap, but manageable. Save with public transport, pizza al taglio, and daily menus.
What is the number one must see in Rome?
The Colosseum, closely followed by the Vatican and Trevi Fountain.
How to dress in Rome, Italy?
Casual but neat. Comfortable shoes are a must. In summer, light clothes; in churches, cover shoulders/knees. In spring/autumn, bring layers.
🙌 Is 3 days in Rome worth it?
Yes, 3 days in Rome are worth it. You’ll visit the must-sees without rushing, enjoy Italian food, and soak up the atmosphere. If you fall in love (likely!), you can always return to explore more museums, villas, and day trips.
✈️ Don’t forget these essential items for your trip to Rome! 👜
🎒 Viral cabin backpack
Perfect if you’re traveling with hand luggage only. Meets cabin size requirements and fits almost as much as a small suitcase. Buy it here and travel light without sacrificing anything.
🧳 Packing cubes for backpack or suitcase
Make the most of your space and keep everything organized during your trip. Ideal for separating clothes, accessories, and gadgets. Get them here and organize your luggage like a pro.
📝 Related articles
👉 Once you have your dates, keep planning with these guides:
- 🏛️ Things to do in Rome
- ⛪ 2 days in Rome
- 🏺 3 days in Rome
- 🖼️ 4 days in Rome
- 🏟️ 5 days in Rome
- 🚆 Day trips from Rome
- 🎟️ Vatican museums
- ✈️ Trip to Rome
- 🏨 Best hotels in Rome
- 🏨 Hotels in central Rome
- 🏨 Cheap hotels in Rome
- 🛌 Where to stay in Rome
- 🍝 Where to eat in Rome
- 🌸 Best time to travel to Rome
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