How To Spend a Long Weekend in Rome: A 3-Day Itinerary

Rich in history, culture, and romance, with one of the best food scenes in the world, there’s so much to see and do in Rome. So, if you’ve only got three days and want to make the most of your time in the city, this Rome weekend itinerary includes everything you need to know. From visiting the Trevi Fountain to finding the best places to eat, learning about the religious significance of the Vatican, to exploring the Colosseum, here’s how to spend a weekend in Rome that’s worth writing home about.

Know before you go to Rome

Why you should go: Rich in history, has incredible sights and museums, and a world-famous culinary scene.

Don’t miss: The Trevi Fountain, the Spanish Steps, the Colosseum, and the Vatican.

Best way to get around: Rome is an incredibly walkable city. However, public transportation, including the metro, buses, and trams, is reliable and relatively cheap. Just remember to validate your ticket.

Best time to go: Summer in Rome offers the best weather but is the busiest time to visit. Avoid the crowds in spring or fall while still enjoying pleasant weather.

Insider tip: Order your cappuccino before noon if you don’t want to get strange looks from the locals. In Italy, cappuccinos are strictly for breakfast.

Day 1: Get your bearings in Rome’s historic center

Morning

Start your day the Italian way with a cappuccino and cornetto

When in Rome, do as the Romans do: Start your day with a cappuccino and cornetto. It’s a delicious flaky butter pastry often filled with jam, chocolate, custard, or cream. Want to do it exactly like they do in Italy? Dip your cornetto in your coffee for a truly authentic Roman breakfast.

Immerse yourself in history at the Colosseum and Roman Forum

The perfect way to begin your long weekend in Rome is by checking out some of the city’s most famous sights, including the Colosseum and Roman Forum. Head here early to avoid the crowds and midday heat, so you can explore these iconic ruins at your own pace.

Afternoon

Fuel up with an authentic Italian lunch

Sample bruschetta with fresh tomatoes, olive oil, and basil before indulging in fresh Italian pasta. From cacao e pepe (cheese and pepper) to carbonara, amatriciana (tomato, pork, and black pepper) to alla gricia (pork and black pepper), you’ll be spoilt for choice with incredible flavors. Local restaurants near the Colosseum, such as La Nuova Piazzetta, serve up Rome’s most iconic dishes.

Traverse the Via dei Fori Imperiali to Capitoline Hill

Stroll along the Via dei Fori Imperiali, a narrow street that winds its way between the ruins of ancient Rome. It’s an excellent route towards Capitoline Hill, making you feel like you stepped back in time. Explore the incredible Capitoline Museums, among the world's oldest public museums. Discover ancient sculptures, artwork, and artifacts before taking in the incredible views from the museum’s terrace.

Evening

Hike up to Victor Emmanuel Monument for sunset

End day one of your Rome weekend itinerary by enjoying a breathtaking sunset from the Monument of Victor Emmanuel. You can even get tickets to the monument’s rooftop for one of the most amazing panoramic views over this historic Italian city.

Cross the Ponte Garibaldi to end your night in Trastevere

Descend the steps and head towards the River Tiber, where you can cross one of the most beautiful bridges in the city, the Ponte Garibaldi. From here, walk towards Trastevere, a centuries-old neighborhood known for its cobbled streets and vine-covered buildings. Head into one of the traditional trattorias, where you can enjoy a delicious pizza to end your first day in Rome.

Day 2: Discover Vatican City and the Trevi Fountain

Morning

Wake early and experience the Trevi Fountain without the crowds

No long weekend in Rome is complete without throwing a coin into the Trevi Fountain, one of the city’s most famous landmarks. This spot gets busy, so it’s best to arrive early in the morning before the crowds arrive. The Spanish Steps are just a ten-minute walk from the Trevi Fountain. They are Europe’s longest and widest steps and make for a nice photo.

Fuel up with a hearty Italian breakfast

Day two of your Rome weekend itinerary will be busy, so fuel up with a filling breakfast. There are lots of great cafes near the Trevi Fountain to check out. Accompany your morning cappuccino with sweet pastries, pizza bianca, and pizza rossa, or a filling and delicious pizza e mortazza (a sandwich made with pizza bread and mortadella).

Afternoon

Hop on the metro to Vatican City and explore historic museums

If you want to visit Vatican City, book your tickets in advance to avoid the long lines. Spend the afternoon exploring the incredible museums, witnessing the awe-inspiring art, and gazing up at Michelangelo’s painting on the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel. Afterward, head to St. Peter’s Basilica, known as the ‘spiritual heart of Christianity.’

Learn to cook all your favorite Italian dishes

Renowned among the world’s best cuisines, no trip to Italy is complete without learning to cook like the Italians do. Enjoy a late lunch or early dinner by joining a local cooking class where you’ll learn how to make tasty pasta dishes, classic pizzas, indulgent desserts, and more.

Evening

Watch the sun go down from Janiculum Hill

End the second day of your long weekend by witnessing a magical sunset from Janiculum Hill, which offers some of the best views in Rome. This is especially magical if you’re visiting Rome in the summer. Enjoy a truly remarkable golden hour and explore the beautiful gardens, Fontana dell’Acqua Paola, and the butterfly park.

End your day with an Aperol Spritz

You can’t spend a weekend in Rome without enjoying at least one Aperol Spritz. Many of the best bars are located around Centro Storico, so grab a seat at one of the city’s stunning rooftop bars and get your order in for the perfect end to your second day.

Day 3: Explore the local markets and relax in the Borghese Gardens

Morning

Explore the magic of Campo de' Fiori and enjoy local delicacies

Start your final day in Rome in the sprawling square of Campo de’ Fiori, known for its bustling daytime market. You can find everything from fresh produce to pasta, from truffle and olive oils to cheese, spice, flowers, and much more. Snack your way around the stalls for a different take on breakfast and a chance to chat with the locals.

Check out Piazza Navona and the Pantheon

A short walk away, you’ll find the beautiful and historic Piazza Navona. Home to the famous La Fontana dei Quattro Fiumi, sculpted by Gian Lorenzo Bernini during the Baroque period, this square is the perfect place to soak up some of the city’s history.

Afterward, it’s worth visiting the Pantheon, an architectural miracle. It’s the only ancient Roman building still intact today.

Afternoon

Stop for some authentic Roman gelato

You might not be ready for lunch after enjoying all the delicious treats at the markets, but there’s always room for something sweet, especially when you’re in Rome. Treat yourself to a classic Italian gelato—from stracciatella to pistachio to cioccolato to Limone — you’ll be spoilt for choice with the delicious array of flavors.

Relax in the scenic Borghese Gardens

The beautiful Borghese Gardens, a lush and scenic park surrounding Villa Borghese, is the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city center. From strolling through the gardens to heading out on the lake in a rowboat, you won’t regret spending time in this peaceful retreat. Art lovers will also enjoy a visit to the beautiful Borghese Gallery.

Evening

Enjoy your final slice of Roman pizza

End your weekend in Rome on a high with some delicious Italian pizza and wine – the perfect way to round off your busy weekend itinerary. Whether it's a classic margherita, quattro formaggio (four cheese), or an authentic Roman pizza al taglio (pizza by the slice), you’ll easily find the perfect slice for you.

Experience an open-air cinema

If you’re visiting Rome in summer, there’s no better way to spend an evening than by checking out one of the many open-air cinemas around the city. The most popular are located in neighborhoods such as Ex Forlanini, Arena Nuovo Sacher, and Isola Tiberina, and they often show English-speaking movies, too.

FAQs

How do I get around in Rome?

Rome is well connected by public transportation, boasting an extensive metro system and plenty of trams and buses. Consider getting a Rome City Card, as they offer discounts on several popular tourist attractions and free use of public transportation. However, the city is best explored on foot as many central attractions are within a five-square-mile radius.

What are the best Rome neighborhoods to visit?

Trastevere, Centro Storico, and Ostiense are some of the best neighborhoods in Rome to see the city’s top sights and experience authentic Roman life.

What are the best places to go shopping in Rome?

Via del Corso, Via Condotti, and Via Cola di Rienzo are some of Rome's most popular shopping streets.

Can Rome be done in 2 days?

Rome’s top attractions can be seen in two to three days, but it’s worth visiting for longer if you want to enjoy more of the city.

How much money do I need for a weekend in Rome?

The Italian capital is one of the most expensive cities to visit. You should budget at least $222 (€204) daily for accommodation, food, transportation, and attractions.