ERMAL ALIBALI

Rome, the Eternal City, is a treasure trove of ancient wonders, Renaissance art, and mouthwatering cuisine. But with so much to see, planning your trip can feel overwhelming. Don’t worry—this 3-day itinerary covers Rome’s must-see attractions, hidden gems, and local favorites, all while saving you time and stress. Let’s dive in!

For a complete overview, check my Rome Travel Guide.

Day 1: Ancient Rome (Without the Kilometer-Long Lines)

Morning
Start with a cappuccino and cornetto at a local café (try Roscioli Caffè – but be ready to fight for a table). Then, head to the Colosseum. Pro-tip: book a skip-the-line ticket with access to the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill (reliable option here). Why suffer in line when you can strut past other tourists like Caesar?

Afternoon
After playing “Gladiator for a day,” walk to Capitoline Hill (free!) and admire the view from Piazza Venezia. Hungry? Stop at Supplizio for a supplì (spoiler: it melts like your heart when you first see Rome).

Evening
Dine at a trattoria in Trastevere (book via TheFork with my code to avoid “no table” panic). Order cacio e pepe (my favorite dish) and listen to Romans argue lovingly. End with a stroll to Piazza Santa Maria in Trastevere, lit up like a movie set.

Day 2: Vatican & Dolce Vita (With a Divine Touch)

Morning
Today we visit another country: Vatican City. Book a skip-the-line ticket for the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel (option here). Warning: lines here are longer than a Roman’s list of sins.

Afternoon
After marveling at Michelangelo’s “ceiling job,” relax with gelato at Gelateria del Teatro (flavor pick: fig and walnut). Then, explore Piazza di Spagna and climb the Spanish Steps. For luxury shopping, stroll Via Condotti—but watch your wallet: even the air is expensive here.

Evening
Aperitivo with a view? Book a table at Terrazza del Pincio (Booking.com has great deals). For dinner, try a trendy spot like Retrobottega and order tonnarelli allo scoglio, it’ll make you weep with joy.

Day 3: Offbeat Rome (Where Locals Say “Ahò!”)

Morning
Escape the crowds at Aventine Hill, one of Rome’s quietest gems. Peek through the Keyhole of the Knights of Malta for a magical view of St. Peter’s (spoiler: it’s not a Photoshop trick).

Afternoon
Lunch at Mercato Testaccio with a trapizzino (a pizza-pocket hybrid, Roman genius). Explore Quartiere Coppedè, a surreal mix of architectural styles that looks like Gaudì’s fever dream.

Evening
Last dinner? Book a table at Roscioli Salumeria (reserve here) for Italy’s finest cheeses and cured meats. End the night with a spiced cocktail at Jerry Thomas Project, one of Rome’s best-hidden bars.