Got 72 hours in Rome? Perfect. That’s just enough time to soak up ancient history, indulge in Roman cuisine, and uncover cultural gems — without rushing or burning out.
This relaxed but immersive 3-day Rome itinerary blends iconic landmarks, foodie experiences, En local discoveries, giving you the best of the Eternal City on a memorable schedule.
🗓️ Day 1: Ancient Rome & Street Food
🏛️ Morning: The Colosseum, Roman Forum & Palatine Hill
Start strong with Rome’s most legendary trio. Book a timed ticket or guided tour that includes all three sites.
- Colosseum: Explore the arena floor and underground (if included)
- Forum: Follow a self-guided path through ancient ruins
- Palatine Hill: Climb for views over the Forum and Circus Maximus
👉 Book your skip-the-line Colosseum + Forum combo here →
🍕 Lunch: Monti Street Food Break
Walk to the Monti neighborhood for lunch. Grab a supplì (fried rice ball) or pizza al taglio (by the slice).
📍 Poging: Zia Rosetta, Forno da Milvio, or La Casetta
🚶 Afternoon: Hidden Gems Walk
Wander through Monti’s cobbled streets to discover:
- Basilica di San Pietro in Vincoli (Michelangelo’s Moses)
- Trajan’s Market ruins from the outside
- Scenic viewpoint on Via di San Francesco di Paola
🍝 Dinner: Classic Roman Trattoria
End the day with cacio e pepe or amatriciana.
📍 Poging: Trattoria da Enzo al 29 or Trattoria Monti
👉 Join an Ancient Rome evening walking tour →
🗓️ Day 2: Vatican, Views & Aperitivo
🎨 Morning: Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel & St. Peter’s Basilica
Get there early or join a skip-the-line guided tour for the best experience. Don’t miss:
- Raphael Rooms
- Sistine Chapel
- Climb St. Peter’s Dome for panoramic city views
👉 Book Vatican skip-the-line access + dome climb tour →
🥪 Lunch: Prati Neighborhood
Head into nearby Prati for a quieter, local-style lunch.
📍 Poging: Pizzarium (gourmet pizza), Pastasciutta, or Fa-bio for healthy eats
🌳 Afternoon: Castel Sant’Angelo & Walk Along the Tiber
Stroll past Castel Sant’Angelo and cross Ponte Sant’Angelo for scenic photos. Follow the river or relax in Piazza Navona.
Optional stops:
- Church of San Luigi dei Francesi (Caravaggio paintings)
- Pantheon (entry now requires a ticket)
🍷 Dinner: Aperitivo & Roman-Jewish Cuisine in Trastevere
Head to Trastevere for aperitivo at Piazza Santa Maria, followed by a Roman-Jewish dinner.
📍 Poging: Tonnarello, Spirito di Vino, or Nannarella
👉 Book a Trastevere food & wine evening tour →
🗓️ Day 3: Art, Markets & Local Life
🖼️ Morning: Borghese Gallery + Gardens
Start with a timed-entry ticket to the Borghese Gallery to see masterpieces by Bernini, Caravaggio, and Canova.
Afterwards, stroll through Villa Borghese Gardens to the Pincian Terras for a great view over Piazza del Popolo.
👉 Reserve a guided tour of the Borghese Gallery →
🍝 Lunch: Campo de’ Fiori Market Area
Grab a bite from a street vendor or dine al fresco.
📍 Poging: Mercato Hostaria or grab a focaccia sandwich and espresso to-go.
🛍️ Afternoon: Local Discoveries
Choose your own adventure:
- Jewish Ghetto + Turtle Fountain
- Via Giulia & Farnese neighborhood
- Shop along Via del Governo Vecchio
If you’re tired, recharge with ijs at Frigidarium or Gelateria del Teatro.
🍷 Dinner: Your Choice Finale
For your last night, pick your favorite cuisine:
- Fine Dining: Roscioli or Glass Hostaria
- Cozy Local: Osteria der Belli
- Food Tour Option: Join a walking dinner experience with 4+ tastings
👉 Find the top-rated Rome food tours here →
🧳 Rome Travel Tips for 3-Day Visitors
- ✅ Reserve all major sites in advance (Colosseum, Vatican, Borghese)
- 👟 Draag goede wandelschoenen – you’ll be doing 15k+ steps/day
- 🕰️ Start early to beat the heat and crowds
- 🎧 Use audio guides or apps to learn on the go
- 📸 Save 10–15 mins per spot for photography
🎁 Free 3-Day Rome PDF Itinerary
Get a printable version of this 3-day itinerary with maps, restaurant pins, and tour links. Ideal for offline use while walking the city!