With a history stretching back thousands of years, Rome offers an unparalleled mix of ancient wonders, impressive architecture and spectacular Renaissance piazzas. The city is truly awe-inspiring; everywhere you look there is something that makes you stop and stare in wonder. That is why Rome is often described as a living museum and why it is one of my favourite places in the world.

From iconic sights like the Colosseum and the Vatican to incredible local dishes like carbonara and cacio e pepe waiting to be devoured, planning your visit can feel overwhelming. Add to that the seemingly endless options for tours and activities, and it’s enough to leave you feeling dizzy. My first piece of advice – don’t try to squeeze everything into a day. Rome wasn’t built in a day, so it shouldn’t be seen in one either! After all, how can you condense thousands of years of history, art, and culture into twenty-four hours? Even after living in Rome and revisiting regularly, I still haven’t seen it all!

After much thought, I’ve crafted an itinerary for four days in Rome. It balances the highlights with time to wander, relax, and enjoy the true essence of Rome. The itinerary is full of ideas and recommendations while still being realistic. There’s no way you can see “everything” in Rome in a few days, so don’t tire yourself out trying to do it all. The heat and crowds can be exhausting, so take breaks and give yourself time to recharge. Rome has been here for millennia and it isn’t going anywhere. I promise you will want to return!

Day 1: AM – Piazza Navona, the Pantheon, Trevi Fountain and Spanish Steps.

Rome has one of the most spectacular historic centres in the world so that’s where we will start our first day. Kick-start your morning with a strong espresso and a crunchy slice of pizza rossa from legendary Roman bakery Antico Forno Roscioli before making your way to Piazza Navona. The piazza is arguably the most beautiful in Rome and is home to three large fountains, the most magnificent being Fontana dei Quattro Fiumi (“Fountain of the Four Rivers”, designed by Gian Lorenzo Bernini in 1651). Piazza Navona is a great place to do some people-watching, take some photos and appreciate the Baroque architecture that surrounds you. 

From this piazza, pop into the 17th century church Sant’Agnese in Agone, an exquisitely-decorated church which houses the Crypt of Sant’Agnese (the church is free to enter, the crypt costs €5). Then take a short stroll to the magnificent Pantheon. No matter how many times I see the Pantheon, emerging from a narrow street to be confronted by this gigantic architectural marvel never gets old.

Built by Emperor Hadrian between 119-128 AD, the Pantheon’s features include huge Egyptian marble columns, intricate mosaics, marble sculptures and stunning frescoes. It has an oculus (similar to a skylight) which bathes the interior in natural light, and its dome is the largest unsupported concrete dome in the world. A true testament to the Ancient Romans’ incredible engineering skills! It costs €5 to enter (concessions available); pre-book at the official site or buy a ticket on arrival using cash or card. 

After the Pantheon, visit the nearby Trevi Fountain, Rome’s largest and most beautiful Baroque fountain. It’s a fan favourite, drawing huge crowds on a daily basis. It is currently free to visit, although there has been some talk of introducing a very small visitor charge. There are some new visiting rules to be aware of. Between 9am and 9pm, close access to the Trevi is limited to avoid overcrowding and potential damage to the fountain. During these hours, visitors must wait in line and there’s a maximum number of people allowed near the fountain at one time.

Another popular site is the Spanish Steps, a truly international landmark; named after the Spanish, built by the Italians, paid for by the French – along with the Italian brand Bulgari which donated over a million euros towards its restoration. Due to this pricey renovation, the steps are regularly cleaned and fines are given out to people sitting, eating or drinking on them. It can be hard to photograph the Spanish Steps and its main piazza, Piazza di Spagna without tons of people milling about, so I recommend climbing the Spanish Steps up to the Trinità dei Monti church, where you’ll find a beautiful viewpoint across the city. 

There are countless churches worth visiting in il centro storico (the historic centre), like Chiesa di Sant’Ignazio di Loyola (famous for its magnificent painted ceilings, murals and frescoes) and Chiesa di San Luigi dei Francesi (known for its Caravaggio paintings). Whether you’re religious or not, there’s no denying that Rome’s churches are like free museums just waiting to be explored. They are also a cool, refreshing place to sit and rest, especially as it starts to heat up outside. 

I personally enjoy wandering aimlessly through the centre, but if you’d like a more structured walk, led by a passionate expert, the Rome City Highlights Walking Tour and Rome Small Group Walking Tour both have excellent reviews. 

Day 1: PM – Jewish Quarter, Largo Argentina and Trastevere

After a good few hours admiring Rome’s historical centre, it’s time to rest your tired little feet. If you’re hungry, I suggest Labottega Pastificio con Cucina Roma, a casual little restaurant serving delicious pasta dishes. Alternatively, check out my Rome Foodie Guide: Where to Eat Like a Local in Rome for my top choices, helping you avoid Rome’s many tourist traps. If you fancy a refreshing drink, head to nearby Open Baladin, one of Italy’s pioneering craft beer breweries. 

Spend the afternoon exploring Rome’s Jewish Quarter, known for its kosher bakeries, narrow streets, and popular trattorias. Make your way to Piazza Mattei where you will find Fontana delle Tartarughe (“Turtle Fountain”). Designed by Giacomo della Porta and sculpted by Taddeo Landini in the late 16th century, it earned its name from the small bronze turtles balancing precariously on the top of the fountain. Close to the Jewish Ghetto, you can roam around the crumbling ruins of Teatro Marcello, an ancient open-air theatre. Commissioned by Julius Caesar and completed under Augustus in 12 BC, walking through Teatro di Marcello is like stepping back in time.

Nearby Largo Argentina is a must for history lovers, as it’s believed to be the site of Julius Caesar’s assassination in 44 BC. While you can view the ruins from street level, the site opened to visitors in 2023 (€8, concessions available – book tickets here). If you spot a cat curled up among the scattered ruins, don’t worry, you’re not hallucinating! There’s a sanctuary within Largo Argentina which cares for Rome’s stray cats, where you can visit, donate, or sponsor a feline friend.

In the evening, head to charming Trastevere. This picture-perfect neighbourhood is worth visiting day or night, but I really love it in the evening when the restaurants and bars are full of life, the sounds of chatter and laughter fills the air, and the streets glow in an enchanting orange light. You can easily lose yourself in the charming cobblestone streets, and there are tons of good restaurants here to try for dinner.

If you fancy a typical Roman style pizza I can recommend L’Elementare (voted as one of the best pizzerias in Rome) or Trattoria Da Enzo al 29 (known for its classic Roman dishes and farm-sourced ingredients). End your evening in one of the main piazzas, Piazza di Santa Maria in Trastevere, or Piazza Trilussa where locals and tourists socialize, drink and watch street performers.

Day 2: AM – Roman Forum, Palatine Hill and the Colosseum

Today you will jump back in time by visiting Rome’s most significant sights; the Colosseum, the Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill. The Roman Forum was the centre of Ancient Rome, hosting elections, speeches, markets, trials, triumph processions and even gladiator fights. On Palatine Hill you can visit the ruins of imperial palaces and extravagant temples commissioned by ancient Rome’s emperors and aristocrats.

The Colosseum was…well, thanks to Gladiator and Russell Crowe, we all know its gory history! When I lived in Rome I walked around the Colosseum several times a week, admiring its magnificent size and imagining the barbaric, exciting events that took place within. My husband visited when he was just three years old and he still has vivid memories of the first time he saw it decades later. It’s just THAT spectacular. 

I suggest visiting the Roman Forum, Colosseum and Palatine Hill all in one day. It might sound very tiring but the Roman Forum is within the grounds of Palatine Hill, and the Colosseum is just minutes’ away. You can buy a combined ticket for the three sites, which is valid for 24 hours or 48 hours (depending on the ticket you choose). Keep in mind that you can only visit the sites once (you can’t repeatedly enter and exit) so make sure you’re ready to spend several hours sightseeing.

You can buy tickets for a tour like this Colosseum, Roman Forum & Palatine Guided Tour and Guided Tour of Colosseum, Roman Forum & Palatine Hill, which visit the three sites with a local expert. You can also book the Colosseum Underground Small Group Guided Tour which give you access to the Colosseum’s lowest section and arena floor (it can be difficult to get tickets for these sections without a guide).

If you’d rather visit independently, I suggest booking your tickets well in advance to avoid disappointment. Download Rick Steves’s free audio guides to enhance your experience and bring the past to life. It’s best to explore the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill first to avoid the worst of the heat (as there’s little to no shade cover) then visit the Colosseum afterwards.

Note: There are no cafes or shops within the Roman Forum, Palatine Hill or Colosseum so take some snacks and a water bottle with you (there are also fountains on site). Afterwards, skip the tourist trap restaurants close to the Colosseum and take a short walk to the nearby Monti neighbourhood, which is full of authentic Roman cafes and restaurants. My top picks are Ce Stamo A Pensà, al42 and Ai Tre Scalini.

Day 2: PM – Cool Neighbourhoods & Beautiful Basilicas

Once you’ve filled your belly, take some time to explore Monti (metro stop Cavour). Along with plenty of restaurants, you will be treated to cute cobblestone streets, boutiques, galleries, cocktail bars, and charming orange buildings draped in vines. Locals flock to Piazza della Madonna dei Monti day and night to mingle and catch up on each others’ news. Take a seat by the piazza’s fountain while eating a gelato (possibly from one of my favourite gelaterias Fatamorgana). 

After exploring Monti, make your way up to Basilica Papale di Santa Maria Maggiore. One of Rome’s largest and most important churches, this basilica is known for its stunning mosaics, and glittering gold interior. The showstopper is its breathtaking golden ceiling, decorated with the first of the gold Christopher Columbus brought back from America.

In the evening I suggest exploring more of the historic centre. There are plenty of piazzas to chill out in, such as Campo de’ Fiori. During the day, it hosts a busy market where you can pick up gifts, souvenirs and local ingredients. At night it transforms into a hot spot for socializing and people-watching, accompanied by a negroni cocktail or a glass of wine. It isn’t somewhere I’d recommend for dinner, but it’s a fun drinking spot. Wondering where to have dinner? Some of my favourite restaurants in il centro storico are Emma, Giulio Passami L’olio, Elle Effe Restaurant and Ditirambo.

Day 3: AM – Vatican Museums, St Peter’s Basilica and the Sistine Chapel

On Day 3, it’s time to visit the Vatican, the heart of the Catholic Church, and the world’s smallest independent state. From the moment you arrive and gaze upon the large obelisk and Bernini’s colonnades in Piazza San Pietro, you will be seriously impressed. From the piazza, join the queue for St Peter’s Basilica, one of the most stunning churches in the world. Like me, you will be blown away by its intricate details, painted ceilings, sweeping arches and marble statues.

Entry to the basilica is free, but there is a charge to visit the dome or the Vatican Grottoes. Keep in mind there is a strict dress code in the basilica; your knees and shoulders must be covered as it is a religious site. 

If you’re a lover of art, history and opulence, don’t miss the Vatican Museums, home to the Sistine Chapel, world-renowned for its stunning ceiling frescoes. You can explore the Vatican Museums independently or as part of a guided tour.

• Want to take a guided tours? A great choice if you want in-depth insights into the art, history, and architecture of the Vatican. These tours often include skip-the-line access, expert commentary, and a structured itinerary. Here are some of the best-rated tours:

Want to visit independently without a guide? If you prefer flexibility and exploring at your own pace, you can rent an audio guide on arrival or use Rick Steves’ free guides to learn about the sites. However, be prepared for long queues especially during peak tourist seasons.

Day 3: PM – Testaccio Market, Aventine Hill and Circo Massimo

The Vatican will take several hours to explore and you’ll be hungry after all that walking, so it’s time to head to my favourite neighbourhood, Testaccio. From the Vatican, walk down to the Tiber river (stopping to admire Castel Sant’Angelo, a spot worth revisiting at sunset for stunning views). Take the number 23 to Testaccio, taking time to admire the Pyramid of Caius Cestius, an ancient tomb standing beside Porta San Paolo (one of Rome’s fifty-one historic gates). It’s possible to enter the pyramid twice a month with a guide if you time your visit right. After checking out this unique landmark, head into the Testaccio neighbourhood for some food. 

There are many great, traditional restaurants in Testaccio like Piatto Romano, Ar Monte Testaccio and Osteria degli Amici. There is also a fantastic market – Mercato Testaccio – where you can try fresh Roman pasta dishes (like carbonara, amatriciana, alla Gricia, cacio e pepe), supplì (fried rice balls with gooey mozzarella centres) and porchetta sandwiches (aromatic roasted pork). There’s also a Trapizzino branch in Testaccio, where you can try a triangular “pizza pocket” stuffed with delicious fillings like chicken cacciatore, meatballs or parmigiana di melanzane (aubergine/eggplant parmigiana). To end on a sweet note, treat yourself to some gelato and relax in Piazza Testaccio.

From Testaccio, climb the annoyingly steep Via di Porta Lavernale to reach Santa Maria del Priorato Church on Aventine Hill. Once there, peek through the Aventine keyhole in Piazza dei Cavalieri di Malta. This unique keyhole offers a perfectly framed view of St. Peter’s Basilica, creating an optical illusion that makes the church appear much closer than it really is.

Nearby, you’ll find Giardino degli Aranci, a beautiful park nestled beside the 5th-century Basilica di Santa Sabina all’Aventino. Peer inside the churches on Aventine Hill and take some time to relax in the peaceful park. You’ll soon realize where the name comes from; the park’s pathways are lined with orange trees, filling the air with their delightful citrus scent. From this spot, you get amazing panoramic views over Rome, making it a great place to admire the photogenic city.

From the top of the hill, continue down Via di Santa Sabina until you end up by Circo Massimo. Nestled between the Palatine and Aventine Hills, Circo Massimo was once the largest stadium in ancient Rome, measuring 620 metres in length and accommodating 150,000 spectators. Nowadays you can wander around this open space, imagining how electrifying the atmosphere would have been during the chariot races, games and events hosted there. There is a small section that can be revisited at the south-eastern end for €10.

In the evening, dine in one of the neighbourhoods I’ve already mentioned or try somewhere new. My suggestion is Prati, the elegant district next to the Vatican. If you’re craving pizza, Sant’Isidoro Pizza & Bolle offers all the classic toppings along with some really creative flavour combinations. For something different, check out Siciliainbocca Prati. I am a huge fan of everything Sicilian (especially the food!) and this is a great way to try the cuisine without having to fly to the island!

Day 4: AM – Cooking Courses, Food Tours, Villa Borghese or San Giovanni

For your final day, I have some foodie ideas for you!

• Cooking Classes – One of the most popular activities in Rome is doing a cooking class, led by a local chef. You will receive step-by-step instructions on how to recreate classic Roman dishes from scratch, using high-quality Italian ingredients. The best part? Once you’ve cooked everything, you get to sit down with your classmates and gobble it all up! Here are some great-sounding tours with glowing reviews:
  • Pasta & Tiramisu Class with Fine Wine by the Vatican
  • 3 in 1 Cooking Class Fettuccine, Ravioli & Tiramisu
  • Traditional Pasta with Cocktails Cooking Class
  • Pasta Making Class with Wine, Limoncello, and Dessert

• Food Tours – If you’d like some help navigating Rome’s incredible food scene, I suggest joining a food tour. Here are some well-rated tours for different budgets:
  • Guided Food Tour in Trastevere (Discover popular foodie spots in Trastevere, washed down with Italian wine from the Lazio region)
  • Guided City Food Tour by Vespa and Tastings (Explore Rome’s food scene and neighbourhoods from the back of a Vespa!)
  • Winner 2024 Food Tour: Campo de’ Fiori, Ghetto & Trastevere (Award-winning tour with 15 food samples, and 3 quality wine tastings)
  • Trastevere Guided Food and Wine Tour with 20+ Tastings (Explore the charming Trastevere neighbourhood by visiting local restaurants, a bakery and wine bar).
  • Trastevere or Jewish Quarter Street Food Tour (A great low-cost option! Choose which area to explore – Trastevere and Tiber Island or Jewish Quarter & Campo dei Fiori)
  • Food Tour with Unlimited Food and Barolo Wine (Unlimited samples and wine, including Roman pizza, al dente pasta, truffles, cheese, cured meats, aged balsamic vinegar, street food, and gelato)

Villa Borghese – If you don’t have the energy for a tour or class, and want to surround yourself in nature, head to Rome’s central park Villa Borghese. This enormous park is home to Galleria Borghese (one of Rome’s most stunning art galleries), National Gallery of Modern and Contemporary Art (a fantastic collection of 19th- & 20th-century art), the National Etruscan Museum and smaller museums dedicated to Italian artists. There’s a lake where you can rent rowing boats near the Temple of Aesculapius, along with walking paths, cycling routes, fountains, and sculptures. 

San Giovanni – If you’re a history or architecture fan, venture to the San Giovanni neighbourhood to visit Basilica di San Giovanni in Laterano, the oldest of the four Papal basilicas. Walk through the enormous doors (which are 2000 years old!) to discover a breathtaking interior. The sheer size of the temple is overwhelming, and it is filled with frescoes, mosaics, paintings and incredible relics from the Last Supper. Just around the corner is Battistero Lateranense di San Giovanni in Fonte. Dating back to 324 AD, this small baptistery has an unusual octagonal shape and stunning decorations. It has artwork dedicated to Constantine, late Roman mosaics, marble flooring, sculptures, altars and wall frescoes.

Day 4: PM – Hilltop Viewpoints & Souvenir Shopping

For your last afternoon in Rome, visit Gianicolo Hill, one of the seven hills of Rome within the city walls. Once you get to the top (via bus, taxi or on foot), you’ll discover the 17th century marble fountain Fontana dell’Acqua Paola (“Fountain of Acqua Paola”), the Church of San Pietro in Montorio, Garibaldi Monument and countless statues. It’s one of the most romantic spots in Rome, offering panoramic views across the city, especially at sunset.

Afterwards stroll down to Trastevere to browse the boutiques and art galleries by local artists and designers. If you’re looking for more shopping opportunities to find gifts and souvenirs, cross the river again and head to Via dei Coronari (a gorgeous narrow street flanked by 15th and 16th century buildings) or Via del Corso (Rome’s main shopping street full of Italian and international fashion brands).

End your final day in Rome with an evening stroll down Via dei Fori Imperiali, one of my favourite walks in Rome. You will be treated to the breathtaking sight of the Roman Forum, Trajan’s Forum, the Forum of Augustus and Temple of Venus Genetrix illuminated by special street lighting, making the ruins look even more striking. It is the perfect place to reflect on the history that surrounds you, reminisce about all the wonderful things you have seen and done on this trip and daydream about your next visit to the Eternal City. 

Rome FAQs

Best Areas & Hotels to Stay in Rome

If it’s your first time in Rome, staying centrally is worth the extra cost for convenience. The Centro Storico is ideal, but Monti (near Termini, the Colosseum, and the Forum) and Trastevere (charming, with great nightlife and easy access to the centre) are excellent options. My old neighbourhood Testaccio is a foodie’s dream, while Prati provides an upscale stay within walking distance of the Vatican. Wherever you stay, being near a metro or bus stop will make exploring much easier.

Personally, I haven’t actually stayed in many hotels in Rome thanks to renting my own apartment there or staying with friends. However, I have three recommendations to share with you (based on rave reviews from friends and family!)

• The Beehive (£) – A boutique hostel near Termini station with a warm, social atmosphere. Great for solo travellers, the Beehive offers organized activities like quiz nights and walking tours, plus a communal kitchen for added convenience.
• Campo de Fiori House (££) – A comfortable, well-equipped apartment in the heart of the city, close to Campo de’ Fiori and Largo Argentina. Perfect for those who want a super central, convenient location.
• Villa Agrippina Gran Meliá (£££) – A luxurious 5-star hotel near the Vatican, perched on a hill with stunning city views, stylish modern rooms, an on-site spa, an outdoor pool, and excellent amenities. It’s close to the historic centre and Trastevere, with several on-site bars and restaurants. I’ve personally enjoyed delicious cocktails at their Amaro Lobby Bar & Lounge Roma.

If you’re wondering which neighbourhood to choose for your stay – complete with plenty of accommodation options – take a look at my in‑depth guide: Where to Stay in Rome: The Best Areas and Neighbourhoods.

When to Visit Rome

Rome is popular all year round, but there are definite peaks around Easter and in July & August. The best times to visit are April-May (avoiding Easter) and September-November, when there are comfortable temperatures, fewer crowds and lower prices on flights, accommodation and attractions.

If you can, avoid visiting in June, July and August. The summer months are usually scorching hot, with huge crowds and high prices. Not a good combination! If summer travel is your only option, keep in mind that August is when many Italians take extended holidays, escaping the city and heading to the coast (especially around the public holiday “Ferragosto” on August 15th). If you stay in Rome during this time, you’ll notice that many family-run restaurants and businesses are closed.

Staying Safe & Healthy in Rome

• Is Rome safe? Yes! Online reviews and forums will have you thinking Rome is like the Wild West, but in reality the majority of tourists don’t have any issues in Rome. The most common crime that affects tourists is pickpocketing. To avoid this, exercise the same caution and common sense you would in any big city. Be aware of your belongings, especially on public transport and in crowded places. It’s a good idea to use a cross-body bag or wear your backpack on your front during packed metro rides.
• Dress for comfort: Rome’s summer temperatures can soar above 40°C, and you’ll be doing plenty of walking! While Instagram might give the impression that everyone in Rome struts around like runway models, the reality is quite different. Most locals wear everyday city attire that’s practical and comfortable. Feel free to dress up and look your best, but if you’re aiming to blend in, leave the red-carpet outfits at home! My advice to dress comfortably, with supportive shoes to handle Rome’s charming cobblestones and less-charming uneven pavements. 
• Stay hydrated: Delicious and safe water is available all over Rome from its legendary nasoni drinking fountains. There are even fancy ones that dispense sparkling water! Bring a reusable water bottle with you to save money and be kind to the environment.

Getting Around Rome

Rome’s metro, buses, and trams are extensive and affordable, but walking is often the best way to explore the historic centre. Buy transport tickets at metro stations or tabaccherie (small kiosks) or use Tap & Go with a contactless card on the metro. There are also several passes available (like a 24-hour travel pass) – check the ATAC site for more details. 

I will say that Rome’s transport isn’t the most reliable. Delays, strikes, and random cancellations happen, along with breakdowns, buses going AWOL or spontaneously combusting! Nevertheless, when it works it works fairly well. There are three metro lines (conveniently called A, B and C) which connect you to many of the main points of the city. However, the historic centre is not directly on the metro so you’ll need to walk or take buses/trams.

I hope this blog post has given you LOTS of ideas about what to see and do in Rome over four days. If you have any questions, leave them in the comments and I’ll do my best to answer them. If you’ve been to Rome before, what was your favourite tour or activity that you did?

Ciao for now

Izzie, the Curious Sparrow