Rome, the Eternal City, is a must-visit destination for any traveler. With its rich history, stunning architecture, delicious food, and lively atmosphere, it’s no wonder why Rome is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. If you’re planning a trip to Rome and have only three days to explore, fear not. In this guide, we’ll provide you with an itinerary that will allow you to see the best of Rome in just three days.
Day 1: Ancient Rome
On your first day in Rome, start with a visit to the Colosseum. The Colosseum is an iconic symbol of Rome and one of the most impressive ancient structures in the world. Be sure to book your tickets in advance to avoid long lines. After visiting the Colosseum, head to the nearby Roman Forum. This was the center of political and social life in ancient Rome and is home to several important ruins, including the Temple of Saturn, the Arch of Titus, and the Temple of Vesta. End your day with a visit to the Pantheon, a stunning ancient temple that has been in continuous use since the 7th century.
Subsection: Food Recommendation
For lunch, head to Roscioli, a popular restaurant that serves traditional Roman cuisine with a modern twist. Try their famous carbonara or cacio e pepe pasta dishes, and don’t forget to sample some of their delicious cheeses and cured meats.
Day 2: Vatican City and Renaissance Rome
On your second day in Rome, start with a visit to Vatican City. This is the smallest independent state in the world and home to some of the most impressive art and architecture in the world. Be sure to book your tickets in advance to avoid long lines. Highlights of your visit to Vatican City should include the Sistine Chapel, St. Peter’s Basilica, and the Vatican Museums. After visiting Vatican City, head to the nearby Castel Sant’Angelo, a stunning fortress that was once the mausoleum of the Roman Emperor Hadrian.
Subsection: Food Recommendation
For lunch, head to Pizzeria La Montecarlo, a popular pizzeria that serves some of the best pizza in Rome. Try their classic margherita or bianca pizzas, and don’t forget to sample some of their delicious antipasti and desserts.
After lunch, spend the afternoon exploring Renaissance Rome. Start with a visit to the Trevi Fountain, a stunning Baroque fountain that is considered one of the most beautiful in the world. From there, head to the Spanish Steps, a famous staircase that leads up to the Trinita dei Monti church. End your day with a visit to the Piazza Navona, a stunning square that is home to several beautiful fountains and an impressive Baroque church.
Day 3: Modern Rome and Shopping
On your final day in Rome, start with a visit to the MAXXI Museum, a stunning contemporary art museum that showcases some of the best modern art in Italy. From there, head to the nearby EUR district, a planned neighborhood that was built in the 1930s and is home to several impressive examples of Fascist architecture.
Subsection: Food Recommendation
For lunch, head to Trapizzino, a popular street food vendor that serves delicious triangular sandwiches filled with traditional Roman dishes such as chicken cacciatore and meatballs in tomato sauce.
After lunch, spend the afternoon shopping in Rome’s trendy Monti neighborhood. This area is home to several independent boutiques and artisan shops, as well as some of the best gelato in the city. Be sure to check out the Church of San Pietro in Vincoli, which is home to Michelangelo’s famous statue of Moses.
Conclusion
In just three days, you can see the best of Rome’s ancient history, Renaissance art and architecture, and modern culture. From the Colosseum to the Vatican City, from the Trevi Fountain to the MAXXI Museum, Rome offers something for everyone. So pack your bags and get ready for a trip you’ll never forget in the Eternal City.
