Once upon a time, I did 3 days in Rome and (surprise, surprise) I didn’t like it. Okay, I know I’m trying to win you over and convince you with this Rome three day itinerary, but I’m just laying the foundation. I visited and was overwhelmed – tourists in all directions and I didn’t have the slightest itinerary planned.
Then, I visited again, and I liked it. Then, I went there again (and again) and slowly fell in love with the Roman atmosphere, the culture, the cuisine, the neighborhoods – oh Trastevere!
Anywho, through numerous trips to the Eternal City, my Italian friendships, and my love for this country, this 3 day trip to Rome, Italy has you set for an awesome time. So you don’t have to have a clueless first time in Rome like I did!
Here’s what to see, what to experience, and (let’s be honest) eat. It’s Italy, baby!
Table of Contents
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How many days in Rome? Is 3 enough?
Rome feels like a huge city, and in many ways it is. However, it’s actually smaller in population than other European cities like London, Paris, and Madrid. However, its population density, tourism, and list of places to see in Rome make it feel so grand.
I think back to my first time in Rome and the 20+ miles I walked most days – seriously! There is just so much to see in this ancient city and some of the best things to do in Rome are quite spread out, making the city feel bigger than it truly is.
So, how many days to spend in Rome? I generally recommend a Rome three day itinerary to cover your bases – the Colosseum, Trevi Fountain, Vatican City, Piazza Navona, etc.
You could easily spend 4-7 days in Rome and not get tired, especially if you’re exploring the food scene and taking a Rome day trip like this one.
Nonetheless, you’ll likely find that its ancient ruins, iconic landmarks, and charming neighborhoods offer a wealth of experiences! You could spend a week in Rome and barely scratch the surface.
When is the best time to visit Rome, Italy?
The best time to visit Rome depends largely on your travel style. However, if you want to beat the heat, still have pleasant weather, and deal with fewer crowds, aim to visit from April through part of June or in September into October.
At the bottom of this travel guide, I highlight more on the weather in Rome, so check that out if you’re still planning when to visit.
About this Rome Three Day Itinerary
This Rome travel guide sets you up for an amazing 3 days, whether you’re traveling solo, with friends, a partner, or your family.
When planning, make sure you check the dates of your trip to make sure you’ll be able to do all of these attractions.
For example, on some Wednesdays the Pope gathers an audience at St. Peter’s Square – which can be really cool to see, but it does mean the Basilica doesn’t open until the afternoon. So, just double check your itinerary will align with your travel dates.
Otherwise, you can follow this guide for visiting Rome in any season and substitute out anything that doesn’t suit your travel style. Let loose, have some fun, and allow wiggle room for spontaneity – you never know what will catch your attention or who you might meet.
While I definitely recommend securing tickets in advance for big-ticket attractions, you can still allow yourself the freedom of last-minute decisions here and there with this itinerary. That’s the beauty of travel!
3 Days in Rome Itinerary
Let the travel buzz commence! Here’s your complete travel guide for Rome.
Rome Itinerary Day 1 – Colosseum, Roman Forum, Capitoline Museums, Trastevere
Ciao! You have made it and it’s your first day in Rome. Obviously, you’re going to want to head straight to the Colosseum. Not many historic sites have taken my breath away quite like stumbling upon the Colosseum my first time in Rome. I hope it’s the same for you.
So, here’s what you’re going to do. You’re going to get this fast-pass entry ticket to the Colosseum and Roman Forum (or this one if you prefer to have a guided tour). They are right beside each other and I honestly enjoyed the Roman Forum more than the Colosseum, so I highly recommend you do both.
However, hold up. We need coffee first. Don’t be ridiculous. We’re not trekking through ancient ruins without a good caffè e cornetto in our bellies – this is Italy!
For a typical Italian bar experience near the Colosseum, I recommend Antico Caffe del Brasile, which I’ve been to several times and it has high ratings.
They have a big selection of baked goodies, like a cornetto (aka a croissant). I prefer mine vuoto (empty) but you can do marmalade, chocolate, pistachio, etc.
Colosseum & Roman Forum
Once you’ve had an Italian breakfast in Rome, enjoy walking through the Colosseum and through the Roman Forum. These are probably two of the main highlights of your trip, and I know you’re probably eager to see the Colosseum, so that’s part of why it’s part of your first day in Rome.
The ruins are quite expansive, so feel free to take your time here. You could spend anywhere from 2 hours and up depending on your interest.
I’d say it will take up a solid 3 hours to do the Colosseum and Roman Forum. So, don’t forget to get those advanced tickets so you can skip the line and save time!
Your ticket for the Colosseum and Roman Forum will give you access to both. Typically, you’ll visit the Colosseum first and then make your way out and follow signs for the Roman Forum. Someone will check your ticket/scan your QR code and then you’ll be able to pass through.
Authentic Italian lunch
Depending on how long you stayed at the Roman Forum, it might be time for lunch. Your first lunch in Roma might as well be pasta. Luckily, I have just the recommendation for lunch near the Colosseum – Naumachia Ristorante.
My favorite dish at this restaurant is their homemade fettuccine with tomato sauce, basil, and topped with Italian cheeses. For the best experience, pair it with a glass of red wine as well as a bruschetta starter for a delicious Roman lunch.
Via dei Fori Imperiali
As you make your way to Capitoline Hill for the next two of this Rome three day itinerary, walk along Via dei Fori Imperiali.
This old street goes between the Roman Forum and the Forum of Augustus and Trajan Forum and offers a new perspective of ancient Rome. If you didn’t do a tour of the Roman Forum, this is a great free alternative! My first time in Rome, I didn’t visit the ruins, but I did walk about Via dei Fori Imperiali and it did the trick (sort of; I still suggest you get tickets to the Roman Forum).
Both sides of the street have Roman ruins, but I think I prefer the views on the right-hand side if you’re walking toward the Capitoline Museums and Altar of the Fatherland.
Capitoline Museums
You’ll definitely want to see Rome’s treasures at the Capitoline Museums, the world’s oldest public museums.
While there you can see ancient sculptures, including the iconic Capitoline Wolf, and admire magnificent paintings and artifacts. It is the memory of ancient Rome, and makes for one of the best things to do in Rome after seeing the Colosseum.
And if art is simply not your thing, you’ll still want to visit just for the museum’s terrace. That’s because you’ll get legendary views of the Roman Forum, the Colosseum in the distance, and views overlooking the bustling city of Rome.
I love to recommend doing this after visiting the Colosseum because the new perspective of its size is cool when it’s still so fresh in your mind.
Ara Coeli Staircase
The first day of your 3 days in Rome is all about the views. Luckily, all these places are right next to one another, so it’s easy to do with 1 day in Rome.
Also located on the Capitoline Hill, the Ara Coeli Staircase offers a thigh-burning ascent to the Basilica di Santa Maria in Ara Coeli (meaning there’s a lot of stairs and your booty will be proud of you for your efforts).
But once you reach the top and enter the basilica, you can admire stunning frescoes, intricate architecture, and a more peaceful ambiance.
Plus, as you’re so high up, there are some stunning views of one of Rome’s oldest areas. Because you haven’t had enough of those views yet!
Monument of Victor Emmanuel II - Altar of the Fatherland
Dedicated to the first king of Italy (who is buried in the Pantheon), the Monument of Victor Emmanuel II is located between Piazza Venezia and Capitoline Hill (where you just were!). It’s hard to miss with its two bronze statues and white exterior perched high over Rome.
It has an interior museum and some of the best views of Rome throughout. You might also see it called Altar of the Fatherland, or Altare della Patria as it’s said in Italian.
You can also get tickets to the rooftop (reached via elevator) for more views of the city. I think you can get amazing views without buying tickets to the rooftop, but you will get a closer look at the two statues of goddess Victoria that stand tall on either side of the monument.
If you can be at the Altar of the Fatherland at Golden Hour (the hour before sunset), you’re in for some perfect photos.
Aperitivo time
It’s time to reward yourself for ALL those staircases and walking you’ve done so far. For a cultural drink, definitely go out for an Aperol spritz. It’s an Italian favorite.
For something close by and cool, SETTEGRAMMI cafè & lounge has Aperol spritz, wines, light bites, and it’s just a 10 minute walk from the Altar of the Fatherland. Oh, and they also have excellent coffee if you prefer something non-alcoholic.
So, enjoy a bit of slow travel and unwind with a drink before carrying on with your first of your 3 days in Rome.
Ponte Garibaldi
From there, you’ll be perfectly set up to walk across Ponte Garibaldi, one of the most beautiful bridges in Rome, and be set up to explore Trastevere (which is just across the Tiber River).
It’s much newer, but still pretty old, compared to the bridge you’ll cross on day 2. Ponte Garibaldi was built in 1888 and tomorrow’s bridge is close to 2,000 years old. Pretty crazy to think about.
With this view, you’ll be able to watch river cruises go by as well as different birds like heron, ducks, and gulls.
Don’t forget! You’ll want to have travel insurance for your trip to Italy. I recommend Nomad Insurance by SafetyWing.
Trastevere
This is a charming, centuries old neighborhood with working class roots and one of the best areas to visit during your three days in Rome.
Walk along the narrow cobbled streets, lined with greenery-covered buildings, local boutiques, craft breweries, and traditional trattorias.
For an unforgettable time on your first night in Rome, experience the lively nightlife around Piazza di San Calisto and Piazza Santa Maria. It’s these areas that make this neighborhood so beloved by locals and visitors alike.
Allow yourself to wander around and get to know this neighborhood for a little while.
Rome Itinerary Day 2 - Vatican City, Historic Districts, Trevi Fountain
Today is another day to get in those steps. So, you might as well kickstart your day with an Italian breakfast near your Rome accommodation and then make your way to Vatican City.
Vatican City & the Sistine Chapel
To get to Vatican City, you can walk, which will take about 30 minutes if you’re staying toward the center of Rome, or you can take public transport. Ottaviano-S. Pietro Station is the closest metro line.
Technically a separate country, Vatican City is one of the best places to visit in Rome. It’s cultural, it’s fascinating, and you can check off another country which is pretty cool.
While you’re at Vatican City, be sure to take in Michelangelo’s famous works in the Sistine Chapel. Then, climb to the top of St. Peter’s Basilica for stunning views of Rome and the Vatican.
There’s also the Gardens of Vatican City, home to a peaceful oasis full of fountains, sculptures, and rare plants. This was something I pleasantly didn’t expect to find.
Tips for visiting Vatican City
Get your tickets in advance! It’s free to enter Vatican City, but the Sistine Chapel and the Vatican Museums do cost. Avoid waiting in lines by reserving your tickets in advance.
Tickets cost €20.00 + €5.00 for skip-the-line access when booking on the Vatican’s website.
For Vatican City, I also recommend a guided tour for a truly in-depth experience that makes your visit far more memorable. Either way, definitely make Vatican City part of your Rome three day itinerary.
Castel Sant’Angelo
After you’ve had a nice little religious meets cultural experience in Rome, continue by walking toward Castel Sant’Angelo. This super old castle was built in 135 AD, making it one of the oldest places in Rome.
I don’t think it’s necessary to take a tour of the site unless it has really piqued your interest (I haven’t been inside but that’s not to say it’s no less amazing to see). That being said, my friend loved going inside the castle. There’s a nice cafe with amazing views of Rome and Vatican City.
Here are the tickets if you want to go inside Castel Sant’Angelo.
St. Angelo Bridge
This Tiber River bridge leads right up to Castel Sant’Angelo. So, if you take a photo on the bridge, the castle makes for a really nice background.
It was also built close to 2,000 years ago. It’s just so incredible to me that something so old can still be standing when modern architecture deteriorates after only a handful of years. Talk about a modern-day scam! Anywho.
Cross the bridge to head back toward the center of Rome.
Campo de' Fiori
One of my favorite places to see in Rome – Campo de’ Fiori is a sprawling square known for its lively market during the day.
Campo de’ Fiori translates to ‘field of flowers’, and the name derived from the Middle Ages when this area was still a meadow covered in wildflowers.
Here you can find all sorts of fresh produce, dry pasta, truffle oils, cheeses, spices, flowers, and so much more. It’s a great place to find souvenirs from Italy.
During the evenings, the square is still very alive with bars and restaurants, so it’s an all-day place to be.
Lunch in Campo de' Fiori
Thanks to the restaurant scene in this square, Camp de’ Fiori is a great spot for lunch or even dinner in Roma.
We visited Antica Hostaria Romanesca and the Roman-style pastas were bellissima! It’s also a popular spot for cacio e pepe in Rome – a delicious cheese and black pepper Roman pasta.
However, there are numerous restaurants in Campo de’ Fiori so head wherever calls to you.
While there, pair dishes like pasta alla Carbonara, tonnarelli cacio e pepe, and bucatini all’Amatriciana with a glass of Italian wine while enjoying the vibrant energy of this iconic square.
If you have time, Campo de’ Fiori, Trastevere, and other parts of the city offer up some AMAZING food tours in Rome.
Coffee at Sant' Eustachio Caffè
Sant’ Eustachio Caffè is one of the most famous places for coffee in Rome. They roast their beans in house and blend them with water from an ancient aqueduct. Pretty cool, indeed.
It’s only a 6 minute walk from Campo dei’ Fiori and just around the corner from Piazza Navona, so skip the digestivo at lunch and enjoy an afternoon coffee at this famous cafe in Rome. Take home a bag of beans as a souvenir!
Piazza Navona
With your belly filled, walk around the corner (like 4 minutes away) to Piazza Navona. This is one of the most beautiful squares in Rome, and perhaps my favorite.
It’s very long with a central fountain called La Fontana dei Quattro Fiumi (The Fountain of the Four Rivers, with four statues representing the Donau, Ganges, Nile, and Rio de la Plata).
The fountain was designed by sculptor Gian Lorenzo Bernini during the Baroque period; he was also the mastermind behind baldachin over the high altar of St. Peter’s Basilica.
For a cute hidden gem for book lovers in Rome, around the corner from Piazza Navona is the Fontana dei Libri (Fountain of the Books). It’s small and unassuming but I was so happy when I stumbled upon it.
Pantheon
From there, you can quickly arrive at the Pantheon. Your Rome three day itinerary can’t skip this must-visit place!
The Pantheon is one of the best preserved buildings from ancient Rome and it’s one of the best cheap places to visit in Rome. It actually used to be free to visit until July 2023. Now it costs €5 to enter with the option of adding an audio guide.
It’s located in Piazza della Rotonda where you’ll find another gorgeous fountain – because Rome doesn’t have enough of those!
It might be tempting to grab a drink or snack from one of the restaurants in this square, but I don’t recommend it. They are overpriced and low quality overall.
However, if you walk down some nearby streets, you’ll be able to find some terrace restaurants that make for an excellent Aperol Spritz or Americano (cocktail) pit stop.
Salotto42 is one of the best cocktail bars in Rome that also serves light bites. The outdoor seating area is beautiful and it overlooks Piazza di Pietra with its ancient Roman columns.
I also recommend Caffè Doria for an upscale place when it’s cold and you don’t want to sit outside.
Gelato break
There are so many places to get gelato near the Trevi Fountain. Venchi Cioccolato e Gelato is a very popular option. I always recommend pistachio because for me it’s like a taste test. If the pistachio is good, it’s a good gelato place.
Obviously, choose your favorite gelato and select either a cone or cup. Continue walking around as you enjoy it! This is the Italian way.
However, my friend and I really loved Gelateria Dell’Angeletto. It’s closer to the Colosseum, so that’s why I didn’t mention in this part of your Rome itinerary. Their gelato is perfectly creamy and my Italian friend LOVED that they sold seasonal fruit gelato.
By now, the evening should be approaching which means it’s getting closer to the top time to visit the Trevi Fountain. For real, visiting the Trevi Fontana is one of the best things to do in Rome at night. It’s much more peaceful.
Trevi Fountain
One of the most famous places to visit in Rome, the Trevi Fountain is indeed stunning. The problem is that everyone else seems to think so and it’s one of the most chaotic and touristy places in the city.
If you want to see the Trevi Fountain for the first time and NOT feel overwhelmed and annoyed by the mass scale of people, wait until later in the evening or early, early in the morning.
When I first visited during a 4 day trip to Rome, I saw the fountain in the afternoon and was so blown away by the amount of people that I couldn’t appreciate the experience.
I returned the following night after drinks with people in my hostel and was pleasantly surprised to see it empty save for a couple cozied up at the fountain’s edge.
Dinner at Gli Angeletti
Enjoy a picturesque 15-minute walk from Trevi Fountain as you head toward today’s dinner spot at Gli Angeletti. This Italian restaurant has a traditional vibe and an amazing outdoor patio with lights.
It’s a cute place for a romantic date in Rome or a cozy dinner with friends. They also have Chianti here, which is a really famous wine region, so if you like red wine you can pair it with a pasta dish.
Finish it all off with tiramisu and a digestivo like coffee or a limoncello.
Rome Itinerary Day 3 – Spanish Steps, Villa Borghese, Roman pizza
Your first trip to Rome is almost coming to an end. It’s your last day! But that’s okay – there’s still so much more to see and do.
Start with breakfast somewhere near your accommodation or visit Trecaffè – Via dei due Macelli for tasty croissant and a cappuccino closer to the Spanish Steps – the first stop of today’s 3 day Rome itinerary.
Spanish Steps
A frequent stop on any Rome walking tour, the Spanish Steps are a lovely way to start the day. Admire the fountain at the square below before heading up the stairs.
They lead up the Renaissance church Trinità dei Monti, which has a great view of the city. And you’d hope so after walking up all those steps!
Villa Borghese & Borghese Gallery
From here, you’ll be in close proximity to the lush park of Villa Borghese. This is a fantastic place to escape urban buzz and retreat somewhere a bit more peaceful..
You’ll find a vast park with scenic paths and panoramic views from Pincio Terrace.
It’s also home to the famous Borghese Gallery, where you’ll find an impressive collection of art, including works by Caravaggio and Bernini.
And for more activities to do in Rome, rent a rowboat on the park’s picturesque lake and unwind. It’s such an amazing way to spend your last afternoon in Rome.
You’ll also find some restaurants and cafes in and around Villa Borghese if you want to have lunch in this area.
Tips for visiting the Borghese Gallery
You’ll need a reservation to visit the Borghese Gallery. You can reserve your spot up to 3 months in advance. When you reserve, you’ll have a 2-hour time slot.
The sooner in advance you book, the better chance you’ll have of getting the time you want. Hours are between 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. but last entry is 5:45 p.m.
Janiculum Hill
If you’re willing to make the trek across the city for a gorgeous golden hour, Janiculum Hill has some of the most breathtaking cityscape views. You’ll be able to see it all as well as the mountains in the distance.
This spot has a really interesting wall with words on it and it creates a cool foreground with a stunning view of Rome behind it.
The hill also offers a lot of the best secret things to do in Rome, like seeing the lesser-known Fontana dell’Acqua Paola. There’s also a Japanese garden, botanical garden, and a butterfly park here.
Then, Ombre Rosse is a cool place for drinks in Rome’s Janiculum Hill.
If you want to have a unique experience in Rome that’s a bit off the beaten path, I highly recommend Janiculum Hill.
Roman pizza
Make your way back into the heart of the city for pizza on your last night in Rome. I really like the traditional Roman restaurant Non c’è trippa pe’ gatti OR Diadema Restaurant for pizza in Monti.
Diadema is also close to the Basilica Papale di Santa Maria Maggiore, which is a REALLY beautiful basilica worth checking out if you have time. It’s free to enter and open until 6:45 p.m.
At Non c’è trippa pe’ gatti, I had the marinara pizza with oregano, tomato, and garlic and it was so simple yet mega tasty. I paired it with an wine and it hit the spot. Notably, pizza is better served with beer but I’m not feeling beer these days, so wine was the move.
Then, I had a great classic Margherita pizza at Diadema. Both are great choices, so just choose whichever works best with your other plans or where you’re staying.
From there, enjoy one last walk through Rome at night! Gelato encouraged.
Where to Stay in Rome - Three Day Itinerary
When it comes to choosing where to stay during your Rome three day itinerary, you’ve got a few awesome neighborhoods to consider for first-time visitors. Here are some neighborhoods in Rome.
Trastevere
This historic neighborhood is known for its narrow cobblestone streets, colorful buildings, and lively atmosphere. It’s packed with trendy bars, cozy cafes, and authentic trattorias serving up delicious Roman cuisine.
Plus, it’s right by the Tiber River and within walking distance to major attractions like the Vatican and the Colosseum, making it a convenient base for exploring the city.
Monti
Home to many main Roman attractions, stretching from the Colosseum over to the Roman Forum and up toward Basilica Papale di Santa Maria Maggiore, Monti is one of Rome’s oldest and most picturesque neighborhoods. For your first time in Rome, it’s a great place to base your trip.
The area is also a hub for art galleries, vintage shops, and hip cafes, perfect for soaking up the local culture. There are some very eye-catching Roman boutiques here too. I found a timeless sun hat at Tina Sondergaard here.
This area can be a little pricier since it’s so central, but it will make walking around the city so much a lot easier.
Relais Monti is a great boutique hotel in Monti, especially if you book a room with a private terrace.
Otherwise, Dimora ai Fori is very close to the Colosseum and has rooms with amazing views of the city.
Campo de' Fiori
Also situated in the historic center of Rome, Campo de’ Fiori is famous for its bustling market by day and nightlife scene.
It’s a great are, surrounded by iconic places, ancient ruins, and landmarks like the Pantheon and Piazza Navona.
Staying in Campo de’ Fiori puts you right in the thick of the action, with plenty of dining, shopping, and sightseeing options at your doorstep.
I stayed in this vacation rental in Campo de’ Fiori during one of my most recent 3 days in Rome. It overlooks the market beautifully!
Testaccio
For a taste of authentic Roman life, head to Testaccio. This working-class neighborhood is famous for its food scene, with lively markets, traditional osterias, and some of the best street food in the city.
It’s also home to the Monte dei Cocci, an artificial hill made entirely of ancient Roman pottery shards. With its local charm and laid-back atmosphere, Testaccio is like a true slice of Roman life away from the tourist crowds.
However, that does mean you’ll be a bit further from the main attractions, so it’s not the best area in Rome for first-time visitors unless you really want to soak up the local life and a slow travel experience.
Termini
If you are on a budget in Rome, Termini is an affordable area to stay in. It doesn’t have the same charm as some of the city’s historic neighborhoods, but it does offer convenience and affordability for travelers on a budget.
You’ll find plenty of budget hotels, hostels, and guesthouses in this area, making it a practical choice for those looking to save money on accommodation.
Plus, Termini is well-connected to public transportation, including buses, trams, and trains, making it easy to explore the rest of the city and beyond.
Keep in mind this isn’t the best neighborhood and you might see some homeless people sleeping near the train station here.
Vittoria Garden Suites is a lovely budget-friendly accommodation in Rome.
Extra time? Day trips after Rome Three Day Itinerary
If you have 4 or more days in Rome, you could take a day trip to see more of southern Italy.
You could hop on the fast train that takes only 1 hour 15 minutes from Rome to Naples and spend the day exploring this gem of a city. Naples is more rugged than Rome and I absolutely love it. Just be careful crossing the road and don’t forget to stop for pizza! See my guide on what to do in Naples here.
If you want to dive into more historical places, book a day trip from Rome to Pompeii and the ancient remnants that remained after nearby Mount Vesuvius destroyed much of this city in 79 CE.
I love this day tour because it takes you to Pompeii and the Amalfi Coast for a perfect day trip from Rome.
If neither of those have caught your fancy and you’re not already heading to northern Italy, please do yourself a favor and book this guided Tuscany tour that includes lunch, a wine tasting, and a tour of the charming Pienza.
If you only have 2 days in Rome
Short and time and still want to make this most of the itinerary for Rome in 3 days? Just skip the itinerary for the 3rd day. I prioritized a lot of the best things to do on days 1 and 2 with day 3 taking you a bit out of the main hub of the city, aside from the Spanish Steps.
You might want to swap out one of the lunch oR dinner options on the second day so that you can squeeze a Roman-style pizza before you leave.
What to wear in Rome
If you are visiting during the peak months or shoulder seasons, you can roughly follow this outline for Rome outfits.
- Comfortable walking shoes – this is a must, especially for all those cobbled streets. Sneakers and/or sturdy sandals like these Clarks are comfortable and stylish.
- A flowy dress
- A lightweight cardigan or jacket
- Cute casual pants, skort, and/or romper
- A couple of cute tops to mix and match with your pants
- A low-key sun hat for May/June (fedora style would be great)
- This anti-theft bag because Rome is a prime pickpocketing destination. See my guide on avoiding pickpockets in Europe.
- A cotton/linen layer for added sun protection + sunscreen
- A lightweight scarf or cover up when entering basilicas and the Pantheon
What is the weather like in Rome?
Here’s a quick little rundown of the weather in Rome throughout the year.
Spring (March to May): Spring is usually a lovely time to visit Rome. The weather is mild and pleasant, with temperatures gradually warming up from around 10°C (50°F) in March to the low 20s°C (high 60s°F) by May. You’ll begin to see blooming flowers and outdoor cafes bustling with locals and tourists alike.
Summer (June to August): Summers in Rome can be hot and humid, with temperatures often reaching the high 20s°C to low 30s°C (mid to high 80s°F). July and August are the hottest months in Rome, with occasional heat waves. If you’re coming in July and August, be prepared for crowded tourist sites and higher accommodation prices during this peak tourist season.
Fall (September to November): Fall is another lovely time to see Rome. You can usually expect mild temperatures that range from the high teens°C (mid 60s°F) in September to the low teens°C (low 50s°F) by November. I also love that the city is less crowded compared to the summer months, making it a great time to explore the historic sites and enjoy the outdoors.
Winter (December to February): Winters in Rome are relatively mild compared to other European cities, with temperatures averaging around 10°C (50°F) during the day and dropping to single digits at night. While it’s the coldest time of year, snow is rare and the city comes to life with festive flair in December
To sum it up, Rome has a Mediterranean climate with mild winters and hot summers, so there’s hardly a bad time to visit. However, each season certainly offers its own unique charm, so the best time to visit depends on your travel style and preferences.
FAQ
Here are some of the most frequently asked questions when planning a 3-day itinerary for Rome.
What area to stay in Rome for three days?
A Rome three day itinerary is enough to see the main sites of Rome, but you’ll want to stay somewhere central to make the most of your time. To do this, stay in the Monti neighborhood, which is near the Colosseum or Campo dei’ Fiori, which puts you very close to Piazza Navona and the Pantheon.
What is the best way to see sights in Rome?
I’m an avid walker when I travel and it’s easily the best way to get to know a city. However, I know some people can’t handle walking upwards of 20 miles in one day to see Rome.
The hop-on hop-off bus in Rome is a great option for 3 days in Rome. It will take you to the main sights and you’ll be able to, as the name suggests, hop off one bus and hop back on another after you’ve visited the attraction.
You can get one, two, or three-day passes. This is convenient because it’s designed to take you to top places to see in Rome, unlike a metro or regular bus route would.
A Rome Travel Pass can also save you money if you are visitng a lot of sights in Rome.
How do I cover Rome and Florence in a 4-day Italy trip?
The fast train will get you from Rome to Florence in just 1.5 hours. If it were me, I’d book 4 nights in Rome and do an overnight in Florence while still keeping my room in Rome.
This assumes you are flying in and out of Rome. If so, do two nights in Rome, take the train up to Florence and stay one night, and then come back to Rome on the final day.
Otherwise, it might be too hectic to do three days in Rome, 1 night in Florence, and then try to take the train back to catch your flight the following morning.
How many days in Rome is enough?
Spending 3 to 5 days in Rome is the perfect amount of time to start getting to know the city. While you could certainly stay longer, if you are just hoping to see the main sites, enjoy some good Italian food, and a couple of cultural activities 3 days will do it.
Stay longer if you want to do a day trip to Naples or Pompeii.
Rome Travel Tips
Before you visit, keep these travel tips in mind to maximize your experience in Italy.
Plan ahead: Rome is a popular tourist destination, so it’s best to plan ahead, especially if you want to do tours of the Colosseum and Vatican City. I always recommend purchasing skip-the-line tickets in advance to save time and avoid pesky long lines.
Bathrooms cost: If you see WC signs, particularly near the Colosseum, Vatican, etc, you will need to pay 1€ in change to use the toilet. However, if you got the Roma City Pass, it’s free.
If you go into a bar and buy a coffee or similar, you can use the toilet there for free.
Dress appropriately for religious sites: When visiting religious sites like churches, the Pantheon, and the Vatican, make sure to dress appropriately by covering your shoulders and avoiding anything too short out of respect.
Comfortable footwear: Like I already touched on, Rome is a city best explored on foot, so be sure to wear comfortable shoes. Trust me, no matter what you’ll be doing a lot of walking on cobblestone streets and uneven paths.
Public transportation: Rome has a great public transportation system including buses, trams, and the metro. These can be convenient when exploring Rome in 3 days. You might consider purchasing a Roma City Pass for unlimited access to public transportation and discounts on attractions, or doing the Hop-on hop-off bus.
Watch out for pickpockets: Rome has its share of pickpockets, ranking among the worst in the world (but not as bad as Barcelona!) especially in crowded tourist areas. Stay vigilant, especially in crowded areas, and keep your belongings secure. This anti-theft bag will be really handy, trust me.
Eat like a local: Rome is a foodie’s paradise, so you should totally be indulging in authentic Italian cuisine at local trattorias and street food stalls. Don’t forget to try classic Roman dishes like pasta carbonara, cacio e pepe, and Roman-style pizza.
Stay hydrated: Rome can get hot and humid, especially in the summer months, so be sure to stay hydrated by carrying a water bottle with you and refilling it at public water fountains (nasoni) scattered throughout the city. Bring a collapsible water bottle with you for an eco-friendly travel solution.
Siesta time: Many shops and businesses in Rome observe a siesta period in the afternoon, typically between 1:30 p.m. to 4 or 5 p.m., when they close for a few hours. This won’t be a problem when visiting most tourist sites, but if you’re wanting to shop, you might have a harder time finding open boutiques.
Learn some Italian: While many Romans speak English, it’s always fun and respectful to learn a few phrases in the local language. Try out saying “buongiorno” (good morning), “grazie” (thank you), and “prego” (you’re welcome) to feel like a local in Roma.
La Dolce Vita: Last but not least, take the time to soak in the beauty and charm of Rome, whether it’s sipping un caffè on a cobbled street, tossing a coin into the Trevi Fountain, or wandering down vibrant, vine-covered streets. Embrace “la dolce vita” (sweet life) and savor every moment of your time in the Eternal City! A dream!
Conclusion
Rome is such a fascinating city and I’m glad I’ve had the opportunity to visit it on so many occasions. I hope Roma inspires you the way it has me. Enjoy your 3 days in Rome!
And if you are looking for more things to do in Italy, consider checking out some off-the-beaten path destinations like these mountain towns in Abruzzo or the historic city of Padua in Northern Italy.
While Rome is a stand-out city, there is SO much more to Italy than just big names Rome, Florence, and Venice.
So, I hope before or after your 3 day trip to Rome, you can experience more of Italy. It’s one of my favorite countries in the world for many more reasons than just Rome, coffee, and pasta (though those are high contenders). Hehe.
Buon viaggio! Happy travels!
