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Rome in 3 Days for First-Timers

A relaxed three-day Rome plan: ancient Rome, the historic centre and the Vatican with Trastevere, with timings and tips for each stop.

  • 3 Days
  • First-timers
  • Ancient Rome, Rome
Day 1

Ancient Rome

Start with the oldest part of the city, when the light is soft and the crowds are smaller.

  1. 1

    Colosseum

    Walk the arena level and the upper tiers, and see how the amphitheatre handled tens of thousands of spectators.

    Time needed: 1.5 hTip: Check the official ticket rules before you go.

  2. 2

    Roman Forum and Palatine Hill

    Walk the old Sacred Way through the Forum, then climb the Palatine for views back over the ruins.

    Time needed: 2 hTip: There is little shade. Bring water.

  3. 3

    Lunch in Monti

    Eat in the small streets above the Forum, which are full of simple trattorie and wine bars.

    Time needed: 1 h

  4. 4

    Circus Maximus and the Aventine

    Walk the length of the old chariot track, then climb to the Orange Garden for a calm view over the Tiber and, on a clear day, St Peter dome.

    Time needed: 1.5 hTip: The Mouth of Truth is a short walk away.

  5. 5

    Optional: see more in 3 hours

    Short on energy? A private electric tuk-tuk tour covers the main sights with a local driver-guide.

    Time needed: 3 h

    Private 3-Hour Electric Tuk-Tuk Tour of RomeTour for this stop
Day 2

The historic centre

Rome centre is a walk between fountains, squares and churches. Take it slowly.

  1. 1

    Pantheon

    Step into the ancient temple and look up at the dome and its central opening.

    Time needed: 45 minTip: Go early to avoid the queue.

  2. 2

    Piazza Navona

    See Bernini Fountain of the Four Rivers and the long oval of the old stadium square.

    Time needed: 45 min

  3. 3

    Lunch near Campo de Fiori

    Pick a side street rather than the main square for better prices.

    Time needed: 1 h

  4. 4

    Trevi Fountain

    Toss a coin over your shoulder to be sure of a return trip.

    Time needed: 30 minTip: Come back late in the evening to see it quieter.

  5. 5

    Spanish Steps and Villa Borghese

    Climb the Spanish Steps, then walk through the gardens to the Pincio terrace for the sunset over Piazza del Popolo.

    Time needed: 2 h

Day 3

The Vatican and Trastevere

Spend the morning at the Vatican and the evening across the river.

  1. 1

    St Peter Square and Basilica

    Enter the basilica and see Michelangelo Pieta.

    Time needed: 1.5 hTip: Shoulders and knees must be covered.

  2. 2

    Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel

    Follow the long route through the galleries to the Sistine Chapel.

    Time needed: 3 hTip: Book your ticket in advance.

  3. 3

    Gianicolo hill

    Climb the Janiculum for the widest view of the city and the Acqua Paola fountain.

    Time needed: 1 h

  4. 4

    Dinner in Trastevere

    Wander the cobbled lanes, then book a table for a Roman dinner.

    Time needed: 2 h

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