Rome-6-day-itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Exploring the Historic Center

  • Morning
    • Arrive at Leonardo da Vinci–Fiumicino Airport (FCO)
    • Take a taxi or train (Leonardo Express) to Termini Station
    • Check-in to your hotel (see below for recommendations)
  • Afternoon
    • Visit the Colosseum ( tickets: €12, free admission on the first Sunday of each month)
    • Explore the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill (tickets: €12, combined ticket with Colosseum)
    • Stop by the Trevi Fountain for a beautiful view
  • Evening
    • Dinner at Trattoria al Moro (Via dei Serpenti, 9), known for its delicious pasta dishes and cozy atmosphere
    • Enjoy a stroll through the historic center, taking in the sights and sounds of the city

Day 2: Vatican City and Art

  • Morning
    • Visit the Vatican Museums (tickets: €21, free admission on the last Sunday of each month)
    • Explore the Sistine Chapel and see Michelangelo’s famous ceiling
    • Stop by St. Peter’s Basilica, the largest Christian church in the world
  • Afternoon
    • Visit the Castel Sant’Angelo (tickets: €14), a former mausoleum turned fortress
    • Cross the Ponte Sant’Angelo for beautiful views of the Tiber River
    • Grab a snack or drink at Gelateria della Palma (Via della Palma, 23)
  • Evening
    • Dinner at La Gensola (Piazza della Gensola, 15), known for its traditional Roman cuisine and cozy atmosphere

Day 3: Trastevere and the Tiber Island

  • Morning
    • Explore the charming neighborhood of Trastevere
    • Visit the Santa Maria in Trastevere church (free admission)
    • Stop by the Piazza San Calisto for a beautiful view
  • Afternoon
    • Take a ferry to the Tiber Island (€2.50, 10 minutes each way)
    • Explore the island and its peaceful atmosphere
    • Visit the Castel Sant’Angelo from a different perspective
  • Evening
    • Dinner at Da Enzo (Via dei Vascellari, 29), known for its delicious pizza and cozy atmosphere

Day 4: Markets and Street Food

  • Morning
    • Visit the Campo de’ Fiori market (free admission)
    • Explore the nearby Piazza del Popolo
    • Stop by the Santa Maria Maggiore church (free admission)
  • Afternoon
    • Visit the Mercato Monti market (free admission)
    • Try some street food at Supplizio (Via dei Banchi Vecchi, 129), known for its delicious supplì (fried risotto balls filled with mozzarella)
  • Evening
    • Dinner at Il Pagliaccio (Piazza de’ Cavalieri Clessi, 4), a Michelin-starred restaurant

Day 5: Ancient Rome

  • Morning
    • Visit the Pantheon (free admission)
    • Explore the nearby Piazza Navona
    • Stop by the Santa Maria della Vittoria church (free admission)
  • Afternoon
    • Visit the Mausoleum of Augustus (tickets: €12, combined ticket with other ancient sites)
    • Explore the nearby Villa Borghese park
    • Grab a snack or drink at Caffè Greco (Via dei Condotti, 86), one of the oldest cafes in Rome

Day 6: Relaxation and Shopping

  • Morning
    • Visit the Vatican Gardens (tickets: €12)
    • Explore the nearby Piazza del Popolo
    • Stop by the Santa Maria Maggiore church (free admission)
  • Afternoon
    • Visit the Galleria Alberto Sordi shopping mall (free admission)
    • Grab a snack or drink at Caffè Sant’Eustachio (Piazza dei Santissimi Apostoli, 7), known for its delicious pastries and coffee
  • Evening
    • Farewell dinner at La Zagara (Via della Croce, 27), known for its traditional Roman cuisine and cozy atmosphere

Hotel Recommendations:

  • Hotel Raphael: A luxurious hotel located in the heart of Rome, with beautiful views of the city.
  • Hotel Art: A modern hotel located near the Vatican City, with a rooftop bar offering stunning views.
  • B&B La Casa dei Cavalieri: A charming B&B located in the Trastevere neighborhood, with cozy rooms and a delicious breakfast.

Transportation:

  • Metro: The metro is an efficient way to get around Rome. The most useful lines for tourists are Linea A (red line) and Linea B (blue line).
  • Bus: Bus 64 runs from Termini Station to the Colosseum, while bus 175 runs from the Vatican City to the Piazza del Popolo.
  • Taxi: Taxis are widely available in Rome. Make sure to use a licensed taxi service and agree on the fare before you start your journey.

Tips:

  • Beware of pickpockets: Pickpocketing is a common crime in crowded areas like tourist hotspots, train stations, and public transportation.
  • Respect local customs: Dress modestly when visiting churches or other places of worship.
  • Learn some Italian: While many Romans speak English, it’s still appreciated if you make an effort to learn basic Italian phrases.

Other things to know:

  • Opening hours: Many museums and historical sites have limited opening hours, especially on Sundays. Be sure to check the opening hours before planning your visit.
  • Ticket prices: Prices may vary depending on the time of day or season. Consider purchasing a combined ticket for multiple attractions.
  • Weather: Rome can be hot during the summer months (June-August), while winters are generally mild (December-February). Pack accordingly and stay hydrated.

Things to buy:

  • Pasta-making classes: Learn how to make traditional Roman pasta dishes with a cooking class.
  • Handmade jewelry: Visit local markets or shops to find unique, handmade jewelry made from materials like silver, gold, and precious stones.
  • Gourmet food: Rome is famous for its delicious cuisine. Try some of the local specialties like carbonara, amatriciana, or supplì.

I hope you have a wonderful time exploring Rome!