Rome is the European capital with the most attractions. Every neighborhood in the city center hides countless treasures waiting to be discovered.
If you’re planning a four-day trip, I can tell you it’s enough time to see most of the main sights and still soak in Rome’s unique charm.
The key to making the most of it? A well-thought-out plan. Organize your days carefully and schedule your visits ahead of time. The guide that follows will help you do just that, stress-free!
1st Day
1. Piazza Navona
Suggested start time: 9am
2. Pantheon
5 minutes walk from Piazza Navona
3. Fontana di Trevi
8 minutes walk from Pantheon
4. Museum and Crypt of the Capuchin Friars
10 minutes walk from Fontana di Trevi
5. Spanish Steps and Piazza di Spagna
10 minutes walk from Capuchin Crypt
The 135 Spanish Steps (Scalinata) begin at Piazza di Spagna and lead up to the Trinita dei Monti church. It’s one of Rome’s most famous landmarks. Keep in mind, though, sitting on the steps has been banned in recent years, and violators face fines!
While at Piazza di Spagna, don’t miss the Fontana della Barcaccia, a fountain dedicated to the great flood of 1598.
6. Via dei Condotti
From Piazza di Spagna, you’ll find Via dei Condotti, the most famous and bustling street in Rome. It’s home to a wide array of fashion stores, particularly showcasing Italian brands. Even if shopping isn’t in your budget, it’s worth strolling through to admire the Italian fashion and chic boutiques.
Afterward, keep exploring the narrow streets of the Historic Center. Pick a spot that catches your eye for a meal or a drink—you’ll have plenty of charming options!
2nd Day
1. Campo de' Fiori
Suggested start time: 9am
Visit the Campo de’ Fiori market early to avoid the heavy crowds. Meaning “field of flowers,” Campo de’ Fiori is a lively open-air market that has been bustling since the Renaissance. You’ll find stalls filled with fresh fruits, vegetables, meats, fish, nuts, and, of course, vibrant flowers. The market is open daily from 9:00 to 14:00, except on Sundays.
2. Altare della Patria
14 minutes walk from Campo de’ Fiori
Head over to Piazza Venezia, where you’ll find the Altare della Patria, also known as the Altar of the Fatherland. This grand monument, built between 1911 and 1925, honors Vittorio Emanuele II, which is why it’s often referred to as the National Monument to Vittorio Emanuele II. The exterior is truly impressive, and I highly recommend going inside to take in the stunning views from the terrace. Book a ticket with audio guide.
3. Colosseum
18 minutes walk from Piazza Venezia
The Colosseum, the most iconic landmark in Rome, is an absolute must on your itinerary. While some may say the interior isn’t that special, I’d argue it’s well worth the visit. Just the fact that it dates back to the 1st century AD is reason enough!
Pro tip: Don’t even think about going without pre-purchased tickets or a guided tour—lines can be insanely long!
👉Combined ticket for the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill
👉 Guided tour of the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill
4. Roman Forumm and Palatine Hill
Next to the Colosseum, you’ll find the Roman Forum, the heart of political, religious, and social life in ancient Rome. While mostly ruins of temples and sacred sites remain, a guided tour will help bring the history to life!
The Palatine Hill, nearby, is home to the remains of the Imperial Palaces. Here too, a guided tour is highly recommended to fully appreciate the significance of the site.
5. Stroll and dine in Trastevere
20 minutes from the Roman Forum
After all the sightseeing and history, you’ve earned some downtime. Head to Trastevere, a bohemian neighborhood packed with restaurants serving up some of the best flavors in Rome. If you’re a food lover, consider taking a food tour to explore the local culinary scene.
3rd Day
Day three starts with a visit to Vatican City and its renowned attractions: St. Peter’s Basilica and the Vatican Museums.
1. St. Peter's Basilica
St. Peter’s Basilica is the ultimate example of a grand church. It’s one of the largest in the world, with a capacity of 60,000 people.
The architecture, both inside and out, is stunning, but for me, the dome—designed by Michelangelo—stands out the most. Trust me, the view from the top is breathtaking, and it’s worth the climb.
Entry to the basilica is free, but there’s a small fee to access the dome:
- Elevator + 320 stairs: €8
- Stairs only (551 steps): €6
Basilica hours: 7:00 a.m.–6:30 p.m. (October–March) | 7:00 a.m.–7:00 p.m. (April–September)
Dome hours: 7:30 a.m.–5:00 p.m. (October–March) | 7:30 a.m.–8:00 p.m. (April–September)
2. Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel
The Vatican Museums house a vast collection detailing the history of the Roman Catholic Church. Take your time exploring. As you walk through, you’ll pass by the Raphael Rooms and, of course, the Sistine Chapel, with its stunning frescoes by Michelangelo.
👉 Book a Vatican Museums ticket – expect long waits or a skip-the-line ticket with an audio guide.
3. Castel Sant’Angelo
15 minutes walk from Vatican City
Originally built as a mausoleum for Emperor Hadrian and his family, Castel Sant’Angelo later became a fortress for the popes. Today, it operates as a museum, showcasing centuries of history.
The bridge leading to the castle, Ponte Sant’Angelo, is just as impressive, adorned with statues by famous artists and now a pedestrian walkway. Book a ticket!
4. Ponte Vittorio Emanuele II
3 minutes walk from Ponte Sant’ Angelo
This nearby bridge, built in 1886, connects the center of Rome with Vatican City.
Tip: From Ponte Vittorio Emanuele II, you can capture stunning photos of Ponte Sant’Angelo, and vice versa, with St. Peter’s Basilica as a backdrop!
4rth Day
1. Villa Borghese
Villa Borghese is a vast park and open-air museum. Originally built as a summer estate in the 17th century, it’s filled with expansive gardens and even features a lake where you can rent boats—perfect if you’re traveling with kids.
2. Borghese Gallery
Inside the villa is the Borghese Gallery, a relatively small but stunning art museum. It houses masterpieces and sculptures by renowned artists like Caravaggio and Bernini. If you’re an art lover, it’s a must—just be sure to book your tickets in advance. Book a skip-the-line ticket.
3. Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore
30-minute walk from the Borghese Gallery (or take bus 360 from Spontini/Ponchielli or bus 590 from S. Paolo Del Brasile)
Santa Maria Maggiore is one of Rome’s four major papal basilicas, dedicated to the Virgin Mary. Built in the 5th century, it’s both enormous and awe-inspiring. Security is tight, and you’ll have to pass through a check to enter.
4. Basilica of St. John Lateran
24-minute walk from Santa Maria Maggiore (or take bus 16 from S. Maria Maggiore)
St. John Lateran is the cathedral of the Diocese of Rome and the oldest of the four papal basilicas, holding the title of “Archbasilica.” The interior resembles a museum, featuring statues of the 12 apostles among many other treasures.
Tip: Consider getting a city card (Roma Pass, Omnia Card) for free entry to select attractions, discounts on others, and unlimited public transportation!
