Rome, the Eternal City, is a destination that everyone should visit at least once in their lifetime. With its rich history, stunning architecture, delicious cuisine, and vibrant culture, Rome has something to offer for everyone. If you only have five days to explore this beautiful city, here’s what you should do.
Day 1: Explore the Historic Center
Start your day by visiting one of Rome’s most iconic landmarks, the Colosseum. This ancient amphitheater is a symbol of the city’s power and grandeur. Afterward, head to the Roman Forum, where you can see the ruins of ancient government buildings and temples. Take a stroll through the historic center, stopping at Piazza Navona, the Pantheon, and Trevi Fountain. End your day with a delicious Italian dinner in the Trastevere neighborhood.
Colosseum
The Colosseum is one of Rome’s most famous landmarks and is a must-visit for anyone visiting the city. Built in 80 AD, this ancient amphitheater was used for gladiatorial contests, public spectacles, and other events. Today, visitors can explore the Colosseum’s interior, stand in the arena, and learn about its history.
Roman Forum
The Roman Forum was the center of ancient Rome’s government and civic life. Today, visitors can see the ruins of government buildings, temples, and public spaces. Highlights include the Temple of Saturn, the Arch of Titus, and the House of the Vestal Virgins.
Piazza Navona
Piazza Navona is a beautiful square that is home to several stunning Baroque fountains and sculptures. The centerpiece of the square is the Fountain of the Four Rivers, which was designed by Gian Lorenzo Bernini.
Pantheon
The Pantheon is one of the best-preserved ancient Roman buildings in the world. Originally built as a temple to all the gods, it is now a church. The Pantheon’s dome is a marvel of engineering, and the interior is decorated with stunning art and sculptures.
Trevi Fountain
Trevi Fountain is one of Rome’s most iconic landmarks. Legend has it that if you throw a coin into the fountain, you will return to Rome one day. The fountain is also a beautiful example of Baroque art, with its intricate carvings and sculptures.
Day 2: Vatican City
On your second day in Rome, head to Vatican City, the smallest country in the world. Start your visit with a tour of the Vatican Museums, which are home to an incredible collection of art and artifacts. Next, visit the Sistine Chapel, where you can see Michelangelo’s famous ceiling fresco. End your day with a visit to St. Peter’s Basilica, the largest church in the world.
Vatican Museums
The Vatican Museums are home to an incredible collection of art and artifacts, including works by Michelangelo, Raphael, and Leonardo da Vinci. Highlights include the Gallery of Maps, the Raphael Rooms, and the Egyptian Museum.
Sistine Chapel
The Sistine Chapel is one of the most famous chapels in the world and is known for its ceiling fresco, painted by Michelangelo. The chapel is also home to several other stunning works of art, including frescoes by Botticelli and Perugino.
St. Peter’s Basilica
St. Peter’s Basilica is the largest church in the world and is known for its stunning Baroque architecture and art. Highlights include Michelangelo’s Pieta, Bernini’s Baldacchino, and the tombs of several popes.
Day 3: Villa Borghese and Trastevere
On your third day in Rome, take a break from the crowds and head to Villa Borghese, a beautiful park in the heart of the city. The park is home to several museums, including the Borghese Gallery, which is home to an incredible collection of art. In the evening, head to Trastevere, a charming neighborhood that is known for its lively atmosphere and delicious restaurants.
Villa Borghese
Villa Borghese is a beautiful park in the heart of Rome that is home to several museums, including the Borghese Gallery. The gallery is home to an incredible collection of art, including works by Caravaggio, Bernini, and Raphael.
Trastevere
Trastevere is a charming neighborhood that is known for its lively atmosphere and delicious restaurants. Take a stroll through the narrow streets, stop at a local bar for an aperitivo, and enjoy some of Rome’s best cuisine.
Day 4: Appian Way and Catacombs
On your fourth day in Rome, head to the Appian Way, an ancient road that was once used to transport goods and armies. Take a bike tour or a walk along the road, stopping at ancient ruins and catacombs. In the afternoon, visit one of Rome’s many museums, such as the Capitoline Museums or the National Roman Museum.
Appian Way
The Appian Way is an ancient road that was once used to transport goods and armies. Today, visitors can take a bike tour or a walk along the road, stopping at ancient ruins and catacombs.
Catacombs
Rome’s catacombs are a network of underground tunnels and tombs that were used for burials. Visitors can explore several catacombs, including the Catacombs of San Callisto and the Catacombs of San Sebastiano.
Capitoline Museums
The Capitoline Museums are a collection of museums that are located on Capitoline Hill. The museums are home to an incredible collection of art and artifacts, including ancient Roman sculptures and Renaissance paintings.
National Roman Museum
The National Roman Museum is home to an incredible collection of ancient Roman artifacts, including sculptures, mosaics, and frescoes. Highlights include the bronze statue of Marcus Aurelius and the Palazzo Massimo alle Terme.
Day 5: Markets and Food
On your final day in Rome, explore the city’s markets and indulge in some of its delicious cuisine. Start your day at the Campo de’ Fiori market, where you can buy fresh produce, meats, and cheeses. Then, head to the Testaccio Market, which is known for its street food and restaurants. End your day with a visit to a gelateria, where you can try some of Rome’s famous gelato.
Campo de’ Fiori Market
The Campo de’ Fiori market is a vibrant open-air market that sells fresh produce, meats, and cheeses. Visitors can also find flowers, spices, and other goods.
Testaccio Market
The Testaccio Market is known for its street food and restaurants. Visitors can try local specialties, such as supplì (deep-fried rice balls) and trippa alla romana (tripe cooked in tomato sauce).
Gelato
No visit to Rome is complete without trying some of its famous gelato. Head to one of the city’s many gelaterias and try flavors such as pistachio, hazelnut, and stracciatella.
In conclusion, Rome is a city that has something to offer for everyone. Whether you’re interested in history, art, food, or just soaking up the culture, you’re sure to have an unforgettable experience. Follow this five-day itinerary to make the most of your time in the Eternal City.
