The Ultimate Three-Day Rome Itinerary: Explore the Eternal City Like a Local

Day 1: Ancient Rome & iconic landmarks

• Morning: Colosseum and Roman Forum
  Start your Roman adventure with a visit to the Colosseum, the grand amphitheater that has stood for almost 2,000 years. To avoid long lines, book skip-the-line tickets for the Colosseum in advance. After exploring this iconic landmark, head to the nearby Roman Forum, where ancient ruins of Roman temples, basilicas and marketplaces await.

• Late Morning: Capitoline Hill & Piazza del Campidoglio
  After exploring the Roman Forum, make your way to Capitoline Hill, one of the seven hills of Rome, which offers stunning views of the city. The Piazza del Campidoglio, designed by Michelangelo, is also a must-see.

• Afternoon: Pantheon & Piazza Navona
  Next, head to the Pantheon, a remarkably well-preserved ancient temple and one of Rome’s most iconic landmarks. After marveling at the Pantheon, stroll over to Piazza Navona. It is known for its Baroque architecture and beautiful fountains, including the famous Fountain of the Four Rivers by Bernini.

• Tip: Gelato near Piazza Navona is a local favorite — head to Giolitti for a true Roman treat.

• Evening: Explore Trastevere for Dinner
  End your first day in the charming Trastevere neighborhood. This bohemian district is known for its narrow cobblestone streets, cozy trattorias and vibrant nightlife. Enjoy a traditional Roman dinner at one of the local restaurants. Trattoria Da Enzo is a beloved spot among locals.

Day 2: Vatican City & hidden gems

• Morning: Vatican Museums & St. Peter’s Basilica
  Start your day early with a visit to Vatican City. Begin at the Vatican Museums, home to an incredible collection of art, including Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel. Afterward, head to St. Peter’s Basilica, the largest church in the world. If you’re interested in more history, visit the Vatican Necropolis beneath the basilica.

• Late Morning: Castel Sant’Angelo
  After exploring the Vatican, take a 10-minute walk to Castel Sant’Angelo, originally built as a mausoleum for the Roman Emperor Hadrian. The castle offers amazing panoramic views of the city and the Vatican.

• Afternoon: Piazza di Spagna & Trevi Fountain
  Next, make your way to the Spanish Steps (Piazza di Spagna), a bustling area surrounded by high-end shopping streets like Via Condotti. From there, stroll to the Trevi Fountain, and don’t forget to toss a coin in the water to ensure a return trip to Rome!

• Evening: Piazza del Popolo & Villa Borghese Gardens
  Spend the evening at Piazza del Popolo, a historic square with impressive twin churches and a grand obelisk. Then, relax in the beautiful Villa Borghese Gardens, which are just a short walk away. If you're an art lover, consider booking a visit to the Galleria Borghese (advanced booking is required).

Day 3: Local Rome & off-the-beaten-path

• Morning: Explore Monti District
  Start your third day by discovering Monti, one of Rome’s most fashionable and laid-back neighborhoods during a fashion tour. This area is filled with quirky boutiques, local cafes and vintage stores. Grab a coffee at Caffè dei Gracchi, a local favorite, and enjoy the slow pace of life here.

• Late Morning: Basilica di San Clemente & San Giovanni in Laterano
  For a deeper dive into Rome’s religious history, visit Basilica di San Clemente, a unique church that’s layered with history — there’s a 12th-century church above a 4th-century church, and below that, a Roman building from the 1st century. Afterward, head to the impressive San Giovanni in Laterano, the cathedral of Rome and the official seat of the Pope.

• Afternoon: Testaccio for Food Lovers
  Make your way to the Testaccio district, a true gem for food lovers. This neighborhood is known for its local markets and authentic Roman food. Don’t miss a visit to the Testaccio Market, where you can sample supplì (fried rice balls), fresh mozzarella and other Roman delicacies. For a sit-down lunch, try Flavio al Velavevodetto, a local trattoria loved for its classic Roman pasta dishes.

• Evening: Piazza Trilussa & Ponte Sisto
  Finish your final day by enjoying the sunset at Piazza Trilussa in Trastevere, one of the most picturesque spots in the city. From here, cross the beautiful Ponte Sisto bridge and take in the views of the Tiber River as you head back toward the center of the city.

• Trattoria Da Enzo al 29 (Trastevere)
  Located in the vibrant Trastevere neighborhood, Da Enzo al 29 is a cozy, family-run trattoria known for its authentic Roman dishes. This charming spot is a local favorite for traditional Roman comfort food with a modern twist. The menu changes with the seasons, but staples like cacio e pepe, amatriciana and carciofi alla giudia (fried artichokes) are always on the table.
  Must-try:
  Cacio e Pepe (Roman cheese and pepper pasta)
  Saltimbocca alla Romana (veal with prosciutto and sage)
  Tiramisu (for dessert)
  Why locals love it: It’s the perfect mix of homey vibes, classic Roman flavors and a warm, welcoming atmosphere. The small space and consistent quality make it a go-to for those seeking real Roman comfort food.

• Pizzeria La Montecarlo (Near Piazza Navona)
  If you're craving authentic Roman pizza, Pizzeria La Montecarlo is the place to go. Situated near the bustling Piazza Navona, this beloved pizzeria offers crispy, thin-crust pizzas that locals can't get enough of. While it’s a no-frills spot, the flavors are out of this world. You can’t go wrong with their signature Margherita or try something unique like the pizza bianca (pizza without sauce).
  Must-try:
  Pizza Margherita (simple but perfect)
  Pizza alla Romana (with anchovies and capers)
  Fried artichokes (a true Roman delicacy)
  Why locals love it: It’s known for its laid-back, bustling atmosphere and incredibly affordable prices. The pizzas are big, thin and deliciously satisfying, making it a favorite for both locals and tourists.

• Roscioli (Campo de' Fiori)
  Located just steps from Campo de' Fiori, Roscioli is a multi-faceted restaurant, deli and wine bar where food enthusiasts gather to indulge in the best of Rome’s culinary offerings. Known for its top-notch ingredients, you can enjoy classic Roman dishes like carbonara and cacio e pepe, paired with an incredible selection of Italian wines. This place blends a deli's casual vibe with the refinement of a restaurant, making it a go-to for both locals and foodies from around the world.
  Must-try:
  Carbonara (a Roman classic, done to perfection)
  Cacio e Pepe
  Guanciale (Roman cured meat) paired with fresh cheeses
  Why locals love it: Roscioli has been serving high-quality, traditional Roman food for decades, and its extensive wine list offers a true taste of Italy. Whether you're grabbing a quick bite at the deli counter or enjoying a full meal at the table, it’s the epitome of Roman food culture.