Four Days in Rome: The Ultimate Itinerary

Benvenuti a Roma! Or, welcome to Rome! Visiting Rome is like stepping into a living museum, where history and modernity blend seamlessly. From the awe-inspiring Colosseum and the intricate frescoes of the Sistine Chapel to the charming cobblestone streets and bustling piazzas, every corner of the Eternal City tells a story. Whether savoring authentic Italian cuisine, exploring centuries-old ruins, or simply enjoying a stroll through its historic neighborhoods, Rome promises an unforgettable journey through time and tradition. In this travel guide, you will find helpful tips for visiting Rome including where to stay, what to eat, and what to see and do.  Additionally, you will find a sample travel itinerary to help you plan your adventure.

Ponte Vittorio Emanuele II Bridge with St. Peter’s Basilica in the background

When to Go

Rome can be visited year-round.  Summer (i.e., June to August) is the peak tourist season so you can expect higher crowds, hot and sometimes humid temperatures, and higher accommodation prices.  Fall, winter, and spring offer pleasant weather, moderate to low crowds, and more affordable accommodations.  

Where to Stay

Choosing the best place to stay in Rome depends on your preferences for proximity to attractions, budget, and desired atmosphere. Here are some of the best neighborhoods to consider:

  • Centro Storico – The historic center of Rome, known for its beautiful piazzas, narrow streets, and historical landmarks.  It is a bustling and vibrant area with many restaurants, bars, and shops.  This area is ideal for first-time visitors and for those who want to be close to major attractions.
  • Trastevere – A charming neighborhood with narrow, winding streets, vibrant nightlife, and a bohemian atmosphere. This area is ideal for those looking for a lively atmosphere, great dining options, and a mix of locals and tourists.
  • Monti – A trendy area known for its vintage shops, hip cafes, and artistic vibe. It is ideal for young travelers and those who enjoy a creative and alternative scene.
  • Vatican/Prati – Located close to Vatican City, this area is more residential and less touristy. It is ideal for those who want to stay near the Vatican, families, and those seeking a quieter area.
  • Testaccio – A traditional Roman neighborhood known for its food markets and authentic dining experiences. This area is ideal for food lovers and for those seeking an authentic Roman experience away from tourist crowds.
  • Spanish Steps/Trevi – A central and upscale area known for luxury shopping and famous landmarks.  This area is ideal for luxury travelers and for those who want to be in the heart of the city.
  • Termini – The area around the main train station, offering convenient transportation links. The atmosphere is busy and diverse with a range of budget accommodations. This area is ideal for budget travelers and for those with early or late train connections.

How to Get Around

The best way to get around Rome depends on your specific needs and preferences, but generally, a combination of walking and using public transportation works best for most travelers. Rome has three metro lines (A, B, and C) that cover important parts of the city. Tickets can be purchased at metro stations, newsstands, and via mobile apps. A single ticket costs €1.50 and is valid for 100 minutes on all forms of public transportation. There are also 24 (€7), 48 (€12.50), and 72 (€18) hour passes. Although the metro is a fast and relatively inexpensive way to get around the city, the coverage is quite limited compared to other major cities. The bus or tram is a great alternative for reaching areas not served by the metro. The ticketing system is the same as the metro.

What to Eat

People often ask us, “Where is the best place you have traveled to?” Such a hard question to answer because each destination is great for different things.  Italy will always win the best food category for us.  Hands down, the best food we have ever eaten.  So if you are planning a trip to Italy, you and your tastebuds are in luck!  Here are some of the best foods to try when visiting Rome:

Pizza

Eating pizza in Rome is a delightful experience. You may come across two distinct styles during your pizzeria search, pizza Neapolitan and pizza alla Romana. Pizza Neapolitan is generally cooked in a wood-fired oven and has a softer, more chewy pizza base.  Pizza alla Romana is usually cooked using an electric or gas deck oven and results in a thin and crispier pizza base.  Popular pizzerias in Rome include Piccolo Buco, Pizza in Trevi, Trieste Pizza, and Pizza Zizza.

Pizza in Rome

Pasta

Another must-eat food in Rome, pasta is a cornerstone of the city’s culinary tradition.  There are many options to choose from including Cacio e Pepe, Carbonara, Amatriciana, and Gricia. Enjoy pasta dishes at Roscioli, Trattoria Da Enzo al 29, Borghiciana Pastificio Artigianale, and Cantina e Cucina.

Saltimbocca alla Romana

This savory dish consists of veal slices topped with prosciutto and sage, cooked in butter and white wine sauce.  Find this delicious dish at Saltimbocca San Lorenzo, Saltimbocca Ristorante, and Al Gallinaccio.

Trippa alla Romana

This classic Roman dish is made by simmering tripe (i.e., the edible lining of the stomach of ruminant animals, primarily cows) in a tomato sauce along with finely chopped fresh herbs.  Find this dish at STRADAROMANA Restaurant, Trattoria Vecchia Roma, and Da Tonino – Trattoria Bassetti.

Bufala e Prosciutto

This delightful and popular combination is served as an appetizer.  The pairing generally involves creamy buffalo mozzarella and savory, thinly sliced prosciutto.  It is sometimes accompanied by cherry tomatoes, a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil, and/or bread.  You can find this delicious appetizer at nearly every restaurant in Rome.

Gelato

This Italian ice cream is known for its dense and creamy texture.  It has less air and fat than traditional ice cream, giving it a more intense flavor.  Rome boasts some of the best gelaterias in Italy.  Giolitti is one of Rome’s oldest and most famous gelaterias.  This was our favorite gelateria in Rome and luckily our hotel was nearby, making it an easy stop on the way home after a long day of exploring.  Giolitti often has a line going out the door but don’t let this dismay you.  The line moves fast and the delicious gelato is worth the wait!

What to See and Do

Vatican Museum and Sistine Chapel

The ceiling of the Sistine Chapel

The Vatican Museums and the Sistine Chapel are two of the most significant cultural and historical attractions in the world.  The Vatican Museums house an extensive collection of art and historical artifacts amassed by the Roman Catholic Church over centuries.  Highlights include the Raphael Rooms, Gallery of Maps, Pio-Clementino Museum, Egyptian Museum, and Pinacoteca.  

Perhaps the most famous chapel in the world, the Sistine Chapel was commissioned by Pope Sixtus IV in the late 15th century as a private chapel for the Pope and the papal conclave.  The chapel’s walls and ceiling are covered with some of the most renowned frescoes in the world, primarily by Michaelangelo.  A major highlight includes the ceiling frescoes, which depict the nine scenes from the Book of Genesis, including the iconic Creation of Adam, where God reaches out to touch Adam’s hand.  Another highlight is The Last Judgement, a massive fresco on the altar wall depicting the second coming of Christ and the final judgment of souls.  

The museums can be very crowded, especially during peak tourist seasons. Be sure to purchase tickets online in advance to avoid long lines and guarantee entry. A guided tour is the best way to visit the museums and the chapel. This guided tour includes the Vatican Museums, the Sistine Chapel, and St. Peter’s Basilica.  

St. Peter’s Basilica & St. Peters Square

St. Peter’s Basilica

Considered one of the holiest sites in Christianity, St. Peter’s Basilica is the burial site of Saint Peter, one of Jesus’ apostles and the first Pope.  The basilica is a masterpiece of Renaissance and Baroque architecture designed by illustrious architects like Michelangelo, Gian Lorenzo Bernini, Carlo Maderno, and Donato Bramante.  Michelangelo designed the famous dome, although, he passed away before its completion.  The dome dominates Rome’s skyline and offers panoramic views of the area.  The interior features lavish decorations, numerous chapels, and altars, including the Altar of the Confession, which stands directly above Saint Peter’s tomb.  Highlights include Saint Peter Enthroned, Michelandelo’s La Pietà, Papal’s Alter, Tomb of St. Peter, and Bernini’s Baldacchino.

St. Peter’s Square is a large piazza located directly in front of St. Peter’s Basilica. The piazza is framed by elliptical colonnades with 284 doric columns, four rows deep. The square symbolizes the open arms of the ‘mother church,’ that is St. Peter’s Basilica.  The square also includes 140 statues, an ancient Egyptian obelisk, and symmetrical fountains.  It is here that the Pope addresses the public for major events (e.g., Easter and Christmas masses) and other important ceremonies in the Catholic Church.  

It is free to visit both the basilica and the square.  However, a ticket is required to climb the dome, which can be purchased on-site. During peak tourist season, expect long lines to enter the basilica.  We highly recommend booking a guided tour. As previously mentioned, this tour option includes the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel.  If you are looking for a guided tour of just St. Peter’s Basilica, this is a good option that includes the dome climb and a visit to the Crypts.  

Castel Sant’ Angelo

Castel Sant’ Angelo and St. Angelo Bridge

This towering cylindrical building was originally commissioned by the Roman Emperor Hadrian as a mausoleum for himself and his family.  The popes later used it as a fortress and castle.  At the top of the castle, there is a statue of the Archangel Michael sheathing his sword.  The statue commemorates the legend that Archangel Michael appeared above the castle in 590 AD, marking the end of a plague in Rome.  Today, the castle is a museum that houses a variety of exhibits, including Renaissance paintings, military memorabilia, and historical artifacts.  Visitors can explore the papal apartments, prison cells, and the extensive collection of weapons and armory.  The terrace offers stunning panoramic views of Rome, especially of the Vatican and the Tiber River.  Ticket reservation is recommended on public holidays and weekends. 

Museo dell’Ara Pacis

This museum houses the Ara Pacis Augustae, an ancient Roman altar dedicated to Pax, the Roman goddess of peace.  It was commissioned by the Roman Senate in 13 BC to honor Emperor Augustus and his achievements.  The altar was buried and forgotten for centuries until fragments were rediscovered in the 16th century. Systematic excavations began in the early 20th century, and the altar was reconstructed and reassembled.  Today, visitors can explore the altar up close and learn about its historical context through multimedia displays. 

Pantheon

Pantheon

The Pantheon is one of the most well-preserved buildings of ancient Rome. It was built around 113 -125 AD as a temple dedicated to all Roman gods but it was later converted into a church.  The Pantheon features a large portico with sixteen Corinthian columns, each 39 feet tall.  The Pantheon’s dome is a perfect hemisphere and was the largest in the world for over a millennium. The oculus is the central opening at the top of the dome and the only source of natural light in the building. The interior features a cylindrical space with seven niches that originally held statues of the gods.  The floor is made of colorful marble and has a slight convex shape to facilitate drainage.  Inside the building, visitors can see the tombs of Italian kings and Raphael, the famous Renaissance artist.  The building is open to the public and is free to visit.  

Chiesa di Sant’Ignazio di Loyola

This prominent Baroque church is known for its famous ceiling fresco by Andrea Pozzo, which depicts St. Ignatius being welcomed into heaven. The fresco creates an illusion of an open sky and vast architectural spaces.  There is also an illusionistic fresco where a real dome was intended but never built. Pozzo painted a flat ceiling to look like a domed one. The church is open to the public, with free entry.  Visitors can admire the extraordinary frescoes, the illusionistic artwork, and the overall grandeur of the Baroque design.

Chiesa del Gesù

Chiesa del Gesù, also known as the Church of the Gesù, is the mother church of the Society of Jesus in Rome. It is one of the most important and influential examples of Baroque architecture and art.  The facade features a balanced and symmetrical design with a strong emphasis on verticality.  The inside of the church has a single nave with side chapels and a dome. The interior is richly decorated with marble, stucco, gilding, and frescoes.  The magnificent ceiling fresco depicts angels and figures seemingly floating into the heavens, creating a dramatic three-dimensional effect.  The church is open to the public, with no entrance fee.  Visitors can attend mass or explore the church’s artistic and architectural features. 

Doria Pamphili Gallery

The Doria Pamphilj Gallery is an art museum featuring an extensive collection of artwork amassed by the Doria Pamphilj family over centuries.  The collection spans several centuries and includes works from the Renaissance, Baroque, and Neoclassical periods.  Highlights include Velázquez’s Portrait of Innocent X, Caravaggio’s Rest on the Flight into Egypt, and Bernini’s Bust of Pope Innocent X. The palazzo that houses the gallery is an architectural gem, with lavishly decorated rooms, frescoed ceilings, and grand halls. Be sure to book your tickets in advance to guarantee entry.  

Spanish Steps

Spanish Steps

This famous Baroque stairway connects the Piazza di Spagna at the base with the Trinità dei Monti church at the top.  The name “Spanish Steps” comes from the Spanish Embassy to the Holy See, located in the Piazza di Spagna at the base of the steps.  The stairway consists of 135 steps arranged in a series of elegant terraces and curves. The Spanish Steps are one of Rome’s most visited landmarks, attracting millions of tourists each year.  Visitors can climb the steps to enjoy the panoramic views of Rome from the top.

Trevi Fountain

Trevi Fountain

The Trevi Fountain marks the terminal point of an ancient aqueduct constructed in 19 BC. The site has had a fountain since ancient Roman times, but the current design dates from the 18th century.  The fountain is a stunning example of Baroque architecture, featuring dramatic and elaborate sculptures.  The central figure of the fountain is Oceanus, the god of all water, riding a shell-shaped chariot pulled by two horses.  The horses represent contrasting moods of the sea. One horse is calm and obedient, while the other is agitated and unruly. The Trevi Fountain is one of Rome’s most visited tourist attractions, drawing millions of visitors each year who come to admire its beauty and partake in the coin-throwing tradition.

Piazzo Del Campidoglio

The Capitoline Hill (Campidoglio) is one of the Seven Hills of Rome and has been a center of political and religious activity since ancient times.  The piazza was designed by Michelangelo, although, it was not completed until long after his death in 1564, with the final touches added in the 17th century. A monumental staircase designed by Michelangelo leads from the street level up to the piazza.  At the center of the piazza stands a replica of the ancient bronze statue of Emperor Marcus Aurelius. The original, which dates to around 176 AD, is housed in the Capitoline Museums to protect it from the elements.  The piazza is a popular destination for tourists, who come to admire Michelangelo’s design, explore the Capitoline Museums, and enjoy panoramic views of Rome from the hill.

Musei Capitolini

The Musei Capitolini is a group of art and archaeological museums situated in Piazza Del Campidoglio.  The museums boast one of the most comprehensive collections of ancient Roman sculptures in the world.  Notable pieces include the Equestrian Statue of Marcus Aurelius, the statue of the Capitoline Venus, the Dying Gaul, the Capitoline Wolf, and the SpinarioThe museums are open to the public, with an admission fee.  Visitors can explore the extensive collections, from ancient statues to Renaissance paintings.  The museums also offer stunning views of Rome from the Capitoline Hill and provide an enriching experience of the city’s artistic and historical legacy.

Roman Forum

Roman Forum

The Roman Forum is one of the most important archaeological sites in the world. During the Roman Republic, the Forum was the center of political activity, including elections, public speeches, and criminal trials.  Under the Roman Empire, the Forum continued to be a vital center for administrative and ceremonial activities.  Emperors added monumental structures to demonstrate their power and prestige.  Some notable highlights of the area include the Temple of Vesta, the Temple of Castor and Pollux, the Arch of Titus, the Arch of Septimius Severus, and Via Sacra, 

Visitors can explore the ruins and imagine the grandeur of ancient Rome. Informative plaques and audio guides help provide historical context.  Visitors can purchase tickets online in advance.  Tickets also include a visit to the Colleseum and Palatine Hill.  The best way to experience the Roman Forum is by taking a guided tour. This will allow you to hear the stories associated with the spaces and truly envision what life was like in ancient Rome.

Trajan Forum

The ruins of Trajan’s Forum are located near the Roman Forum and the Colosseum.  The forum was constructed between AD 106 and AD 112 to commemorate Trajan’s victory in the Dacian Wars and to serve as a new center for public and administrative activities in Rome.  The forum was designed as a large open space flanked by colonnaded porticoes, with a central piazza.  The Basilica Ulpia, one of the largest and most important buildings in the forum, served as a space for administration, legal proceedings, and other public functions.  Another highlight of the ruins is Trajan’s Column, which is decorated with a spiral relief depicting scenes from the campaigns, winding around the column to the top.  Visitors can explore the ruins and see the remaining structures, including Trajan’s Column and parts of the Basilica Ulpia.

Palatine Hill

According to Roman mythology, Palatine Hill is the birthplace of Rome.  It is said to be the location where Romulus and Remus, the twin founders of Rome, were found by the she-wolf that raised them. Archaeological evidence indicates that Palatine Hill was inhabited as early as the 10th century BC.  It became a desirable residential area for the Roman elite during the Republic and later for emperors during the Imperial Period.  There are several notable structures on Palatine Hill including the Palace of Augustus (the residence of the first Roman emperor) and Domus Flavia (ruins of a grand palace).  The Palatine Hill is part of a larger archaeological park that includes the Roman Forum and the Colosseum. A single ticket grants access to all three sites.  Guided tours of all three sites are also available and highly recommended.  

Borghese Gallery and Museum

The Borghese Gallery and Museum is one of Rome’s most renowned art museums, housed in the elegant Villa Borghese Pinciana.  It boasts an impressive collection of classical sculptures, Renaissance paintings, and Baroque masterpieces. Highlights include Apollo and Daphne, David, The Rape of Proserpina, Boy with a Basket of Fruit by Caravaggio, David with the Head of Goliath, and The Deposition by Raphael. Visitors can explore the collection at their own pace, with informative plaques and audio guides providing context and details about the artworks.  Tickets must be reserved in advance due to the gallery’s policy of limiting the number of visitors at any given time. The best way to experience the Borghese Gallery and Museum is through a guided tour.  

 Palazzo Barberini

This grand Baroque palace is the home of Galleria Nazionale d’Arte Antica (National Gallery of Ancient Art). The grand central hall is notable for its impressive frescoed ceiling and beautiful staircases. The gallery houses one of Italy’s most important collections of old master paintings, spanning from the 13th to the 18th centuries.  Highlights include Judith Beheading Holofernes by Caravaggio, La Fornarina by Raphael, and Portrait of Henry VIII by Hans Holbein the Younger. The gallery is open to the public, with an entrance fee. Visitors can explore the opulent rooms of the palace and admire the extensive collection of paintings and sculptures. Tickets can be purchased on-site or online.

Colosseum

Colosseum

The Colosseum is one of the most iconic landmarks in Rome and a masterpiece of ancient Roman engineering and architecture.  Construction began in AD 72 and was completed in AD 80.  It was built as a gift to the Roman people and served as a venue for public spectacles, including gladiatorial contests, animal hunts, mock sea battles, and other forms of entertainment.  The Colosseum is an elliptical structure, measuring approximately 189 meters (620 feet) long, 156 meters (512 feet) wide, and 50 meters (164 feet) high.  It could accommodate between 50,000 and 80,000 spectators, making it the largest amphitheater of its time.  

Visitors can explore the interior of the Colosseum, including the arena floor, the underground chambers, and the upper levels, which offer panoramic views of the surrounding area.  Self-guided tickets are available online and include entrance to Palatine Hill and the Roman Forum.  However, a guided tour is the best way to visit the Colosseum.

Santa Maria Della Vittoria

Santa Maria della Vittoria is a Baroque church in Rome, renowned for its exquisite art and architecture, particularly the masterpiece by Bernini, the Ecstasy of Saint Teresa.  The church’s interior is richly decorated with marble, stucco, and gilding.  The layout follows a single nave with side chapels, each adorned with significant artworks and altars.  Visitors can explore the ornate interior for free.  

Palazzo Massimo Alle Terme Museum

Palazzo Massimo alle Terme is one of the four locations of the National Roman Museum in Rome.  It houses one of the world’s most important collections of classical art and antiquities.  The museum’s layout allows for a chronological and thematic presentation of the artifacts, enhancing the visitor experience and understanding of ancient Roman culture.  Visitors can explore the extensive and well-organized collections, with each floor offering a unique perspective on different aspects of Roman art and culture.

Domus Aurea

The Domus Aurea was a vast and opulent palace complex built by the Roman Emperor Nero between AD 64 and 68. It was intended as a personal residence for Nero and reflected his desire for grandeur and his love of art and architecture.  It covered approximately 300 acres and included vast gardens, artificial lakes, pavilions, and banquet halls.  One of the most famous architectural features is the octagonal room, which had a dome with an oculus (i.e. a central opening) allowing natural light to illuminate the space.  This innovative design influenced later Roman and Renaissance architecture.  The site is open to the public through guided tours, which include virtual reality experiences to help visitors visualize the original appearance of the palace.  Tours must be booked in advance, as access is controlled to protect the fragile remains.

St. Clements Basilica

Visiting the Basilica of San Clemente in Rome is a journey through layers of history, art, and architecture that span over two millennia.  Upon entering, visitors are greeted by a serene courtyard with a portico supported by columns, leading to the simple yet elegant medieval facade.  Inside, the nave features ancient marble columns and a high ceiling adorned with beautiful frescoes.  Beneath the current basilica lies the earlier 4th-century church, accessible via stairways, where ancient frescoes vividly portray early Christian scenes and saints.  Further below, the remains of a 1st-century Roman house and a Mithraic temple reveal the site’s ancient roots.  The basilica is open to the public, with an entrance fee for the lower levels (the 4th-century basilica and the Roman house/Mithraeum).  Visitors can book tickets online in advance.  

Rome Itinerary

Are you ready to start planning your trip to Rome? Start by downloading our easy-to-customize Rome travel itinerary.  Easily make changes to the itinerary to make it fit your schedule and interests.