Rome-7-day-itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Exploring the City Center

  • Morning: Arrive at Leonardo da Vinci–Fiumicino Airport (FCO) and take a taxi or train to your hotel
  • Afternoon: Check-in to your accommodation and freshen up. Stay in the city center for easy access to main attractions.
  • Places to Go:
    • Piazza Navona: A charming square with beautiful fountains, statues, and architecture (open 24/7)
    • Campo de’ Fiori: A bustling market square with fresh produce, flowers, and souvenirs (open 9am-6pm)
  • Food: Try authentic Italian pizza at Pizzeria Roscioli or grab a coffee at Caffè Greco, one of the oldest cafes in Rome.
  • Accommodation: Stay at Hotel Raphael (5-star) for an upscale experience, or opt for B&B Roma (budget-friendly).
  • Things to Know:
    • Be mindful of pickpocketing and petty theft in crowded areas.
    • Don’t eat from street vendors; they’re often not sanitary.
  • Transportation: Use public transportation ( metro/tram) or walk/bike whenever possible.

Day 2: Ancient Rome

  • Morning: Visit the Colosseum (9:30 am - 5 pm, €12.50 entrance fee), a iconic amphitheater and one of Rome’s most famous landmarks.
  • Places to Go:
    • Roman Forum (open from 8:30 am): Explore ancient ruins, temples, and basilicas.
    • Palatine Hill (open from 8:30 am): Enjoy stunning views of the city and explore ancient ruins.
  • Food: Savor traditional Roman cuisine at La Gensola or grab a quick bite at Supplizio for delicious supplì (fried risotto balls).
  • Accommodation: No change, but consider booking a hotel with a rooftop pool for a relaxing evening.

Day 3: Vatican City

  • Morning: Visit the Vatican Museums (9 am - 6 pm, €21 entrance fee), featuring some of the world’s most famous art and artifacts.
  • Places to Go:
    • Sistine Chapel (open from 9 am): Marvel at Michelangelo’s frescoes on the ceiling.
    • St. Peter’s Basilica (open from 7 am): A grand church with an impressive dome and beautiful artwork.
  • Food: Enjoy breakfast or lunch at Caffè Vaticano or snack at Supplizio (again, because their supplì are that good!).
  • Accommodation: Consider booking a hotel near the Vatican for easier access to these attractions.

Day 4: Rome’s Hidden Gems

  • Morning: Explore the charming neighborhood of Trastevere, known for its narrow streets, local shops, and beautiful piazzas.
  • Places to Go:
    • Santa Maria in Trastevere (open from 7 am): A stunning church with a beautiful facade and courtyard.
    • Piazza Santa Maria in Trastevere: Enjoy the lively atmosphere and grab a coffee or gelato at Gelateria della Palma.
  • Food: Savor traditional Roman cuisine at La Montecarlo or try some delicious seafood at Il Pagliaccio.
  • Accommodation: No change, but consider booking a hotel in this charming neighborhood for a unique experience.

Day 5: Castles and Gardens

  • Morning: Visit the magnificent Castle Savoy (open from 9 am), featuring stunning gardens and beautiful artwork.
  • Places to Go:
    • Villa Borghese (open from 6 am): A beautiful park with walking paths, lakes, and gardens.
    • Galleria Borghese (open from 9 am): Explore a stunning art gallery featuring works by Bernini, Caravaggio, and Titian.
  • Food: Enjoy lunch at La Zagara or snack at Gelateria della Palma (yes, again!).
  • Accommodation: Consider booking a hotel with beautiful gardens or a rooftop pool for relaxation.

Day 6: Markets and Shopping

  • Morning: Visit the famous Testaccio Market (open from 7 am), featuring fresh produce, meats, and local specialties.
  • Places to Go:
    • Mercato Montecarlo (open from 8 am): Explore a bustling market with fresh produce, flowers, and souvenirs.
    • Via del Corso: A lively shopping street with high-end boutiques and souvenir shops.
  • Food: Try some delicious gelato at Gelateria della Palma or snack at Supplizio (for the last time!).
  • Accommodation: No change, but consider booking a hotel near your favorite shopping street.

Day 7: Relaxation and Departure

  • Morning: Spend some time relaxing in your hotel’s garden or rooftop pool.
  • Places to Go:
    • Tiber Island (open from 9 am): A peaceful oasis with beautiful gardens and a relaxing atmosphere.
    • Ponte Sant’Angelo (open from 7 am): Take a leisurely stroll across this ancient bridge with stunning views of the city.
  • Food: Enjoy a farewell meal at La Gensola or grab a quick bite at Supplizio one last time.
  • Transportation: Use public transportation or take a taxi to the airport for your departure.

Tips and Other Things to Know

  • Dress modestly when visiting churches and museums.
  • Be mindful of street performers who may be more aggressive than others in Rome.
  • Learn some basic Italian phrases, such as “grazie” (thank you), “per favore” (please), and “scusa” (excuse me).
  • Don’t drink tap water, as it’s not recommended for tourists.
  • Respect local customs and traditions, especially when visiting churches or historical sites.

Additional Recommendations

  • Consider purchasing a Roma Pass, which grants you free entry to several attractions and discounts at others.
  • Take advantage of the city’s many free walking tours, offered by various companies and organizations.
  • Don’t miss out on live music and performances, often held in Rome’s charming piazzas and streets.

**Enjoy your time in Rome!