3 days in Rome
Three thousand years of history, and dinner at nine. A 3-day plan.
In Rome, an ancient temple sits beside a Baroque fountain on a street of espresso bars. The joy is in wandering: every piazza has a story, and most of them come with gelato.
Day by day
Day 1: Ancient Rome
Start early at the Colosseum, then the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill. Explore Monti in the afternoon and cross the river for dinner in Trastevere.
Day 2: The Vatican
Tour the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel, then St Peter's Basilica and its dome. Lunch in Prati and walk to Castel Sant'Angelo at sunset.
Day 3: Fountains and piazzas
See the Trevi Fountain at 7 am, then the Spanish Steps, Pantheon and Piazza Navona. Visit Galleria Borghese (booked ahead) and finish at the Pincio terrace.
Make it work
- Best months: Mar–May, Sep–Oct. See the season calendar.
- Book ahead: the most popular sights and restaurants, especially in peak season.
- Where to eat along the way: Roscioli, Da Enzo al 29, Armando al Pantheon.
- Getting around: The historic centre is best on foot.
Short on time, or staying longer?
With less time, keep the first days and skip the day trip. With more, add a slower day for a neighbourhood from our best areas to stay, or choose more from the full list of things to do.
Opening days and times change, and some sights close one day a week. Check before you go. Last reviewed October 2026.