Rome, the Eternal City, is a must-visit destination for any traveler. With its rich history, stunning architecture, delicious cuisine, and vibrant culture, it’s no wonder why Rome is one of the most popular destinations in the world. If you only have three days to spend in this beautiful city, don’t worry! There’s still plenty to see and do. Here’s a guide on what to do in Rome for three days.
Day One: Explore Rome’s Historic Center
Start your first day by exploring Rome’s historic center. Begin at the Colosseum, one of the most iconic landmarks in Rome. You can either take a guided tour or explore the Colosseum on your own. From there, head over to the Roman Forum, which is just a short walk away. The Forum was the center of political and social life in ancient Rome and is home to various ruins and historic buildings.
After the Forum, make your way to the Pantheon, one of the best-preserved ancient buildings in Rome. The Pantheon is a stunning architectural masterpiece, and it’s free to visit. From the Pantheon, you can take a stroll through the charming streets of Rome’s historic center, stopping at various landmarks and attractions along the way, such as the Trevi Fountain, Piazza Navona, and the Spanish Steps.
For lunch, head to Trastevere, a charming neighborhood on the other side of the Tiber River. Trastevere is known for its narrow streets, colorful buildings, and delicious food. There are plenty of restaurants and cafes to choose from, so take your time and enjoy a leisurely lunch.
In the afternoon, head back to the historic center and visit the Vatican Museums. The Vatican Museums house an impressive collection of art and artifacts, including the Sistine Chapel. Make sure to book your tickets in advance to avoid long lines.
Day Two: Discover Rome’s Art and Culture
On your second day in Rome, focus on the city’s art and culture. Start by visiting the Galleria Borghese, a stunning art museum housed in a 17th-century villa. The museum is home to works by some of Italy’s greatest artists, including Bernini, Caravaggio, and Raphael.
After the Galleria Borghese, head over to the MAXXI Museum of Modern Art, which is located in the Flaminio neighborhood. The museum is home to a vast collection of contemporary art and architecture, and it’s a great place to spend a few hours.
For lunch, head to Testaccio, a neighborhood known for its street food and traditional Roman cuisine. There are plenty of food markets and restaurants to choose from, so make sure to try some local specialties like carbonara, cacio e pepe, and supplì.
In the afternoon, visit the Palazzo delle Esposizioni, a cultural center that hosts various exhibitions and events throughout the year. The Palazzo is located in the heart of Rome, and it’s a great place to learn more about the city’s art and culture.
Day Three: Experience Rome’s Food and Wine
On your final day in Rome, focus on the city’s food and wine. Start by taking a food tour of the city, which will take you to various markets, restaurants, and food stalls. You’ll get to try some of Rome’s most delicious dishes and learn about the city’s culinary traditions.
After the food tour, head over to the Testaccio Market, one of Rome’s oldest and most famous food markets. The market is home to various vendors selling everything from fresh produce to local cheeses and meats.
For lunch, head to the Monti neighborhood, a trendy area known for its excellent restaurants and wine bars. There are plenty of options to choose from, so make sure to try some of the local wines and enjoy a leisurely lunch.
In the afternoon, visit a local winery and vineyard, where you can learn about the wine-making process and sample some of Italy’s best wines. There are various wineries located just outside of Rome, so you can easily make a day trip out of it.
Final Thoughts
Rome is a city that truly has something for everyone. Whether you’re interested in history, art, culture, food, or wine, Rome has it all. With this guide, you can make the most of your three days in the city and experience all that Rome has to offer. So pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable trip to the Eternal City!
