Rome in 3 Days: The Perfect Itinerary for First-Time Visitors

Three days in Rome is just enough to see the main highlights and get a taste of la dolce vita. This carefully planned itinerary balances must-see attractions with local experiences and includes free walking tours to save money.

Day 1: Ancient Rome

Morning (9 AM): Start with our free Ancient Rome walking tour - explore the Colosseum exterior, Roman Forum area, and learn fascinating history from local guides. The tour typically runs 2-3 hours. Lunch: Grab a quick bite near the Forum - try supplì (fried rice balls) from a local spot. Afternoon (1 PM): If you pre-booked Colosseum tickets, enter now (less crowded). Otherwise, explore Palatine Hill. Evening (6 PM): Walk to Piazza Venezia, climb the Capitoline Hill for sunset views. Dinner in the Monti neighborhood.

Day 2: Vatican & Historic Center

Morning (8 AM): Vatican Museums - arrive at opening to beat crowds. Spend 3-4 hours exploring, ending with Sistine Chapel. Lunch: Pizza al taglio near Vatican. Afternoon (1 PM): St. Peter's Basilica (free entry), then walk along Via della Conciliazione to Castel Sant'Angelo. Evening (5 PM): Cross Ponte Sant'Angelo bridge, explore historic center - Piazza Navona, Pantheon, Trevi Fountain. Dinner in the Jewish Ghetto area.

Day 3: Local Rome & Trastevere

Morning (9 AM): Join our free Jewish Ghetto & Trastevere walking tour. Discover hidden gems, local history, and get restaurant recommendations from guides. Lunch: Traditional Roman lunch in Trastevere - try cacio e pepe or carbonara. Afternoon (2 PM): Explore Villa Borghese gardens (free), or book Borghese Gallery if you love art. Evening (6 PM): Spanish Steps, designer shopping on Via Condotti (window shopping is free!), aperitivo in Monti, dinner in Testaccio.

Money-Saving Tips

• Take free walking tours (tip €10-15 per person) • Buy tickets online in advance to skip overpriced tour operators • Eat where locals eat - avoid restaurants with picture menus • Drink tap water (Rome has excellent fountains everywhere) • Visit free attractions: Pantheon, Trevi Fountain, Spanish Steps, churches

What to Skip

With only 3 days, skip: Catacombs (unless very interested), Appian Way (needs half day), Day trips to Pompeii/Florence (need full day each). Focus on Rome itself - there's so much to see!

Booking Free Tours

Reserve your free walking tours in advance, especially during high season (April-October). Tours fill up quickly, and showing up without reservation often means no space. Book all three days of tours when you arrive for guaranteed spots.