ROME IN 3 DAYS
- Catalina Diedrichs
- Mar 30, 2023
- 7 min read
Updated: Jul 31
Before starting with this specific guide to visit Rome in 3 days, we are going to analyze some general questions about this great city:
WHEN TO TRAVEL
The main topics that are usually considered when planning a trip are the weather and the amount of people.
In general, Rome's weather is very pleasant mostly all year. But to avoid extremes temperatures, it is best to travel between April and June or September and October.
The months that tend to be more "quiet" and less people are April, May and October.
The truth is that being in one of the most famous capitals in the world, it is difficult to avoid people traffic, but the busiest months are usually July and August.
WHERE TO STAY
This topic depends on each type of trip and the preferences of each person. It also depends on what each one prioritizes (luxury, proximity, price) and the different experiences.
That being said, a hotel that we recommend based on the experience we had and its location is Welcome Piram Hotel. An ancient but very clean hotel, with great customer service, and pretty well located (a few blocks from the Termini). If you have just few days and you travel with many suitcases, it's good to be close to the Termini.
Another area that we recommend is by the Centro Storico. Since most of the main attractions are nearby to do on foot or with a tram.
There are those who prioritize a nice area and don't mind moving, if that's your case you can be closer to Trastevere, for example. Since either way you will have to move because the main attractions are far from each other.
Trastevere is one of the most cool and emblematic neighborhoods. We heard very good things about Hotel Locanda Cairoli.
It is also important to take into account that during the night, there is a lot of movement here (hence, more noise); especially near Piazza dei Fiori.
HOW TO MOVE
The best way to explore Rome is by motorbike! Easy to move around and to park. By car you'll suffer the traffic and it is very difficult to find a spot. Walking or by public transport takes longer and its more exhausting, especially if you already come from a long previous journey and if you are in the midst of summer. A great combination can be a mix between some days in moto and others by foot.
All this being said, lets see a 3-day guide based on nearby zones. You can change the order of the days, they are just a reference to make it easier for you to visit this beautiful city that has so much to see:
DAY 1
If you arrive early, you can start at the Vittorio Emanuele Monument (Altare della Patria), one of Rome's most symbolic and emblematic buildings, from where you can enjoy a panoramic view from above of different points of this great city and understand its historical layout.
From there, you can head down to the Colosseum, the imperial icon. It's best to arrive early or take a combined "skip-the-line" ticket to avoid long lines. If you couldn't arrange this in advance, here's one of our #GuestTravelTips: If you say you want a "human guide," you can skip the entire line and buy your ticket directly.
It's great to take the guided tour; it takes only an hour to do it, they give you more information, and then you're free to wander around on your own. The same ticket allows you to enter the Palatino and the Foro Romano (Roman Forum), which are right across the street. We recommend including a visit to the Colosseum Arena.
If you're not going with a guide, it's still best to buy the combined ticket that includes the Colosseum, the Forum, and the Palatino.
#GuestTravelTips: You'll get the best view (and picture) of the Colosseum from Via Oppio, from the bridge in front of it, from the square in front of it, or the Foro Romano entrance.
Also, if you’re looking for a secret slice of Roman history, don’t miss Palazzo Colonna, one of the city’s most enchanting hidden gems. Start your walk at Piazza Venezia. Head towards the Assicurazioni Generali building, and in the other corner, turn right. At the end of the street, turn onto Via della Pilotta. There, you’ll find the discreet entrance to Palazzo Colonna, marked Galleria Colonna. This private palace has been home to the Colonna family for centuries, and while the noble family still resides here, parts of the palace are open to visitors only a few hours a week. Inside, you’ll discover lavish frescoes, opulent halls, and a rare glimpse into aristocratic life. Check opening days and hours in advance.
When you are done with that area, you can walk to the Fontana de Trevi, the famous fountain (be patient, it's usually very crowded). If you want to take a photo of the fountain without people, it's best to go early in the morning or later at night.
For vintage fans: just a few blocks from the Colosseum and on the way to the fountain, on Via dei Serpenti, you'll find Pifebo Vintage Shop, ideal to discover unique clothing and accessories amidst the historical tour at a very good price.
If you continue up, you'll reach Piazza Spagna.
A great area for shopping, especially along Via Corso and Via Condotti, which are the main streets; but you'll also find other great stores and restaurants in the surrounding area.
While you're there, be sure to visit Piazza del Popolo. And across the street, the parl Villa Borghese.
For dining in this area, we recommend Ristorante Nino.
Highly, HIGHLY recommended; it's located on Via Borgognona, one of the streets that crosses Via Corso.
Another more exclusive option, escaping the chaos of the city in a garden inside the Hotel Russie, is Le Jardin de Russie.
Another delicious option: Il Marchese.
At night, you can have a meal or a drink with views of the Colosseum from The Court or from the Aroma rooftop. Make a reservation in advance.
DAY 2
The Vatican.
Make sure to book the ticket in advance and better if it is with a guide. If you are interested, you can find out the schedule of the mass that the Pope gives to thousands of people.
It is a long visit that takes time, but it is worth it. It is best to go as early as possible to avoid the crowds.
From there you can walk to the Basilica de San Pedro, see the Castel Sant'Angelo and cross the Ponte Sant'Angelo to walk around that area.
You have several options to eat along Borgo Pio street, or you can go to the Prati neighborhood, which is very close and there are even more options.
In the afternoon you can visit Trastevere. As we said before, one of the most beautiful and emblematic neighborhoods. On weekends there are fairs of all kinds, like the Porta Portese flea market. You can stay for dinner while you are here, it gets even more beautiful at night and there are usually musicians and some shows in the square.
A great restaurant in this area is: Da Otello.
A classic option: Tonnarello (it has other locations as well).
DAY 3
Start early at the Pantheon. On the way out, we recommend eating at Da Fortunato. One of the best restaurants in Rome.
For pizza lovers: Bar Restaurante Sergio, right in front and with views to the Pantheon. While there are pastas and other varieties on the menu, their pizza is spectacular.
If you want to try the famous paninis: All'Antico Vinaio (but we recommend going at alternate times because there is usually a very long line).
Another option in the area is Antica Trattoria Agonale for good pasta.
And for a good cacio e pepe (from hard shellfish), Faciolaro.
For dessert, the best gelato is Venchi. They have the best pistachio in the world. They have several locations in other areas.
For tiramisu lovers: Two Sizes is your place.
Afterwards, you can continue along Campo di Fiori, have a delicious coffee at Barnum, and then spend the rest of the day riding your motorcycle around Rome.
Other great street to visit and find several places to eat: Via dei Coronari.
It's key to leave free time to get off the beaten path and discover new places. Plus, cities are best explored by touring other residential neighborhoods. So, follow another of our #GuestTravelTips and leave time to wander aimlessly through the streets and get to know this incredible city even better, beyond the tourist spots.
Don't miss our complete guide with all the info about where to eat in Rome, HERE. Restaurants, rooftops, gelaterias, coffee shops and more.
OTHER PLANS
NEIGHBORHOODS
Prati area. Via Cola di Rienzo and sorroundings.
Monti. Artistic zone upward the Colosseum area.
Villa Borghese for great views of the city
Testaccio
Via dei Coronari. Great street with several places to eat, near Piazza Navona.
Aventino Hill. Orange trees garden. Stunning sunset views.
Tiber Island. Compact island in a bend of the River Tiber with a number of historical buildings & monuments.
PLACES
Civita di Bagnoregio, known as "the dying city," is one of Italy's most magical and photogenic towns. Perched on a volcanic tuff hill and connected only by a pedestrian bridge, it seems frozen in time. Its cobblestone streets, medieval houses, and views over the valley make it a perfect day trip from Rome for those seeking history, scenery, and a slower pace. It takes approximately 2 hours by car.
#GuestTravelTips: Arrive early or at sunset to enjoy it with fewer people and take unforgettable photos.
OUTLET
If you're going shopping and have time, the best outlet is the Castel Romano McArthurGlen.
If you're coming by car from the Amalfi Coast, it's on the way before reaching Rome. The only thing you need to be careful with is any luggage left in your vehicle.
