Roman Holiday! 3 Days in Rome: An Itinerary for First-Time Visitors

Rome is a city steeped in history and culture, with a wealth of iconic landmarks, stunning art and architecture, and incredible food and wine. With so much to see and do, planning a trip to Rome can be overwhelming, especially if you only have a few days to explore. But fear not! With a little bit of planning and some insider tips, you can experience the best of Rome in just three days. From the awe-inspiring Colosseum and the magnificent Vatican City to the charming streets of Trastevere, this 3-day itinerary will help you make the most of your time in the Eternal City.

Day 1:

9:00am - Start your day at the iconic Colosseum. This ancient amphitheater is one of the most famous landmarks in Rome and is located at Piazza del Colosseo, 1, 00184 Roma RM, Italy. Be sure to buy your tickets in advance to avoid long queues.

11:00am - After exploring the Colosseum, take a short walk to the Roman Forum at Via della Salara Vecchia, 5/6, 00186 Roma RM, Italy. The Forum was the center of ancient Rome and is home to many fascinating ruins.

1:00pm - Head to Piazza Navona, 00186 Roma RM, Italy, for lunch at one of the many outdoor cafes. Try some authentic Italian pizza or pasta, and enjoy the stunning Baroque architecture of the square.

Here are three options to consider:

Roscioli - This gourmet deli and restaurant is a popular spot for foodies in Rome. The menu features high-quality ingredients, including artisanal cheeses, cured meats, and wine. The restaurant also offers cooking classes and wine tastings. Address: Via dei Giubbonari, 21/22, 00186 Roma RM, Italy.
Ristorante Santa Lucia - This elegant restaurant offers traditional Italian cuisine, including fresh seafood, handmade pasta, and a variety of meat dishes. The restaurant has indoor and outdoor seating and is known for its friendly service. Address: Vicolo della Cancelleria, 24, 00186 Roma RM, Italy.
Tre Scalini - This historic cafe and pastry shop is famous for its Tartufo, a delicious chocolate and hazelnut dessert. The cafe also serves coffee, gelato, and light meals. Address: Piazza Navona, 30, 00186 Roma RM, Italy.

3:00pm - Walk to the Pantheon at Piazza della Rotonda, 00186 Roma RM, Italy, a breathtaking temple dedicated to all the gods of ancient Rome. Don't miss the oculus in the center of the dome, which allows natural light to illuminate the interior.

6:00pm - After a long day of sightseeing, relax at a local wine bar. Try some Italian wine and appetizers, such as bruschetta or prosciutto, at Enoteca Corsi at Via del Gesù, 87, 00186 Roma RM, Italy. Some recommended dishes here:

Spaghetti alla carbonara - This classic Roman pasta dish is made with spaghetti, guanciale (cured pork jowl), eggs, and Pecorino Romano cheese. Enoteca Corsi's version is creamy and flavorful, with a perfect balance of salt and spice.
Polpette al sugo - These traditional Italian meatballs are made with a mixture of ground beef and pork, breadcrumbs, Parmigiano Reggiano cheese, and fresh herbs. They are served in a rich tomato sauce and topped with fresh basil.
Bruschetta al pomodoro - This classic Italian appetizer features slices of toasted bread topped with fresh diced tomatoes, garlic, and basil, drizzled with olive oil.
Saltimbocca alla romana - Thin slices of veal are wrapped in prosciutto and sage and pan-fried in butter, creating a deliciously savory dish.
Panna cotta - Enoteca Corsi's version of this classic Italian dessert is creamy and rich, served with a drizzle of caramel sauce.

Day 2:

9:00am - Start your day at the Vatican City at Viale Vaticano, 00165 Roma RM, Italy. Visit the Vatican Museums, which houses one of the world's greatest art collections, and the famous Sistine Chapel.

12:00pm - Take a break and enjoy lunch at Il Ciociaro at Via Cavour, 256, 00184 Roma RM, Italy. This cozy restaurant serves traditional Roman cuisine, including pasta dishes and fish specialties. Here are some recommendations:

Spaghetti alla carbonara - This classic Roman pasta dish is made with spaghetti, guanciale (cured pork jowl), eggs, and Pecorino Romano cheese. Il Ciociaro's version is rich and creamy, with a perfect balance of salt and spice.
Saltimbocca alla romana - Thin slices of veal are wrapped in prosciutto and sage and pan-fried in butter, creating a deliciously savory dish.
Bucatini all'amatriciana - Another classic Roman pasta dish made with bucatini (thick, spaghetti-like noodles), tomato sauce, guanciale, and Pecorino Romano cheese. Il Ciociaro's version is spicy and flavorful.
Carciofi alla giudia - This Jewish-style artichoke dish is prepared by frying whole artichokes until they are crispy and golden. Il Ciociaro's version is tender and delicious, with a crispy outer layer.
Tiramisu - Il Ciociaro's version of this classic Italian dessert is light and fluffy, with layers of espresso-soaked ladyfingers and mascarpone cream.

2:00pm - After lunch, visit St. Peter's Basilica at Piazza San Pietro, 00120 Città del Vaticano, Vatican City. This stunning church is the largest in the world and is home to many priceless works of art.

5:00pm - End your day with a visit to the Castel Sant'Angelo at Lungotevere Castello, 50, 00193 Roma RM, Italy. This impressive fortress was built in the second century and has been used as a mausoleum, a papal residence, and a prison.

8:00pm - For dinner, head to Osteria del Pegno at Via Flaminia, 872, 00191 Roma RM, Italy. This charming restaurant serves traditional Italian dishes made with locally sourced ingredients. Some recommendations:

Tonarelli cacio e pepe - This dish is similar to spaghetti cacio e pepe, but made with a thicker, square-shaped pasta called tonarelli. The pasta is cooked until al dente, then tossed with a creamy Pecorino Romano cheese sauce and black pepper.
Saltimbocca alla romana - Thin slices of veal are wrapped in prosciutto and sage and pan-fried in butter, creating a deliciously savory dish.
Polpo alla griglia - This dish features grilled octopus served with a side of fresh arugula salad. The octopus is tender and flavorful, with a crispy outer layer.
Fettuccine alla gricia - This simple but delicious pasta dish is made with fettuccine, guanciale (cured pork jowl), and Pecorino Romano cheese.

Day 3:

9:00am - Start your day at the Spanish Steps at Piazza di Spagna, 00187 Roma RM, Italy. Climb the famous staircase for a stunning view of the city and explore the many designer boutiques in the area.

11:00am - Next, visit the Trevi Fountain at Piazza di Trevi, 00187 Roma RM, Italy. Legend has it that throwing a coin over your shoulder into the fountain ensures your return to Rome.

1:00pm - Enjoy a leisurely lunch at Trattoria Monti at Via di San Vito, 13A, 00185 Roma RM, Italy. This family-run restaurant is famous for its authentic Roman cuisine and homemade pastas. Here are some recommended dishes to try:

Cacio e pepe - This classic Roman pasta dish is made with Pecorino Romano cheese and black pepper. Trattoria Monti is known for its excellent version of this simple but flavorful dish.
Gnocchi alla Romana - These baked semolina dumplings are a staple of Roman cuisine. Trattoria Monti's version is soft and creamy, with a crispy golden crust on top.
Saltimbocca alla romana - This dish features thin slices of veal wrapped in prosciutto and sage and pan-fried in butter. Trattoria Monti's version is tender and flavorful, with a rich sauce made from the pan drippings.
Tiramisu - Trattoria Monti's version of this classic Italian dessert is creamy and light, with layers of espresso-soaked ladyfingers and mascarpone cream.
Wine - Trattoria Monti has an extensive wine list featuring a variety of Italian wines. Ask your server for a recommendation to pair with your meal.

3:00pm - After lunch, visit the Galleria Borghese at Piazzale del Museo Borghese, 5, 00197 Roma RM, Italy. This stunning art museum is home to many masterpieces, including works by Caravaggio, Bernini, and Raphael.

6:00pm - Take a stroll through the charming neighborhood of Trastevere, located across the Tiber River. Explore the narrow cobblestone streets and enjoy the lively atmosphere of the bars and restaurants.

8:00pm - For your final dinner in Rome, head to Da Enzo al 29 at Via dei Vascellari, 29, 00153 Roma RM, Italy. This cozy trattoria is known for its traditional Roman dishes and friendly service. Here are some dishes to consider ordering:

Cacio e pepe - Da Enzo al 29's version of this classic Roman pasta dish is creamy and rich, made with Pecorino Romano cheese and black pepper.
Carbonara - This pasta dish is made with spaghetti, pancetta or guanciale (cured pork jowl), eggs, and Pecorino Romano cheese. Da Enzo al 29's version is creamy and flavorful, with a perfect balance of salt and spice.
Saltimbocca alla romana - Thin slices of veal are wrapped in prosciutto and sage and pan-fried in butter, creating a deliciously savory dish.
Carciofi alla romana - This Roman-style artichoke dish is prepared with olive oil, garlic, and fresh herbs. Da Enzo al 29's version is tender and flavorful, with a crispy outer layer.
Tiramisu - Da Enzo al 29's version of this classic Italian dessert is light and creamy, with layers of espresso-soaked ladyfingers and mascarpone cream.

10:00pm - End your trip with a nightcap at Caffè della Pace at Via della Pace, 3, 00186 Roma RM, Italy. This historic cafe has been a popular gathering spot for artists, writers, and intellectuals since the 1800s.

Enjoy your trip to the Eternal City!

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