Introduction
Rome, the Eternal City, is a destination that should be on everyone’s travel bucket list. With over 2,000 years of history, Rome is a city that offers an abundance of ancient ruins, art, and culture. With so much to see and do, planning a trip to Rome can be overwhelming. In this article, we’ll provide you with a guide on what to see in Rome Italy in 5 days, so you can make the most of your time in the city.
Day 1: Ancient Rome
On your first day in Rome, we recommend exploring the ancient ruins that the city is famous for. Start by visiting the Colosseum, one of the most iconic landmarks in Rome. Afterward, head to the Roman Forum, where you can see the remains of ancient temples, markets, and government buildings. End your day at the Pantheon, a well-preserved temple that is over 2,000 years old.
Colosseum
The Colosseum is the largest amphitheater ever built, and a must-visit attraction in Rome. It was completed in 80 AD and used for gladiatorial contests and public spectacles. Today, visitors can see the interior of the Colosseum, including the underground chambers where gladiators and animals were kept.
Roman Forum
The Roman Forum was the center of political and social activity in ancient Rome. Visitors can see the remains of several ancient buildings, including the Temple of Saturn, the Temple of Vesta, and the Arch of Titus.
Pantheon
The Pantheon is one of the best-preserved ancient buildings in Rome. It was originally built as a temple to all the gods of Ancient Rome, and later converted into a Christian church. The dome of the Pantheon is a masterpiece of ancient engineering and is still the largest unreinforced concrete dome in the world.
Day 2: Vatican City
On your second day in Rome, we recommend visiting Vatican City, the smallest country in the world, and the headquarters of the Roman Catholic Church. Start by visiting St. Peter’s Basilica, the largest church in the world. Afterward, head to the Vatican Museums, where you can see some of the most famous art in the world, including the Sistine Chapel.
St. Peter’s Basilica
St. Peter’s Basilica is a must-visit attraction in Rome. It is the largest church in the world, and the burial site of St. Peter, one of the twelve apostles of Jesus. Visitors can see the famous dome of the church, as well as the sculptures and artwork inside.
Vatican Museums
The Vatican Museums are a collection of museums and galleries in Vatican City. They house some of the most famous art in the world, including works by Michelangelo, Raphael, and Leonardo da Vinci. The highlight of the Vatican Museums is the Sistine Chapel, which features Michelangelo’s famous ceiling fresco.
Day 3: Baroque Rome
On your third day in Rome, we recommend exploring the Baroque architecture that the city is famous for. Start by visiting the Trevi Fountain, one of the most famous fountains in Rome. Afterward, head to the Spanish Steps, a popular spot for tourists and locals alike. End your day at the Piazza Navona, a beautiful square with three fountains and several Baroque churches.
Trevi Fountain
The Trevi Fountain is one of the most famous fountains in Rome. It was completed in 1762 and features a statue of Neptune, the Roman god of the sea. Legend says that if you throw a coin into the fountain, you will return to Rome one day.
Spanish Steps
The Spanish Steps are a set of steps that connect the Piazza di Spagna to the Trinita dei Monti church. They are a popular spot for tourists and locals alike, and offer a great view of the city.
Piazza Navona
Piazza Navona is a beautiful square in Rome, featuring three fountains and several Baroque churches. It is a popular spot for tourists, and a great place to relax and people-watch.
Day 4: Modern Rome
On your fourth day in Rome, we recommend exploring the modern side of the city. Start by visiting the MAXXI Museum, a contemporary art museum. Afterward, head to the Testaccio neighborhood, which is known for its nightlife and food scene. End your day at the EUR district, a planned neighborhood built for the 1942 World Fair.
MAXXI Museum
The MAXXI Museum is a contemporary art museum in Rome. It features works by Italian and international artists, and is a great place to see some of the latest trends in contemporary art.
Testaccio
Testaccio is a neighborhood in Rome that is known for its nightlife and food scene. It is home to several bars and clubs, as well as some of the best restaurants in the city.
EUR District
The EUR district is a planned neighborhood in Rome that was built for the 1942 World Fair. It features several impressive examples of modernist architecture, including the Palazzo della Civiltà Italiana.
Day 5: Parks and Gardens
On your fifth and final day in Rome, we recommend exploring the city’s parks and gardens. Start by visiting the Villa Borghese, a beautiful park in the heart of Rome. Afterward, head to the Appian Way, an ancient Roman road that is now a park. End your day at the Janiculum Hill, a great spot to watch the sunset over the city.
Villa Borghese
Villa Borghese is a beautiful park in the heart of Rome. It features several museums, including the Borghese Gallery, which houses an impressive collection of art.
Appian Way
The Appian Way is an ancient Roman road that is now a park. Visitors can walk along the road and see ancient ruins and tombs.
Janiculum Hill
Janiculum Hill is a great spot to watch the sunset over the city. It offers a panoramic view of Rome, and is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.
Conclusion
Rome is a city that offers something for everyone, from ancient ruins to contemporary art. With this guide, you can make the most of your 5-day trip to Rome and see some of the city’s most famous attractions. Whether you’re interested in history, art, or food, Rome is a destination that you won’t soon forget.