Discover the Eternal City: 5-Day Rome Itinerary

Welcome to Rome, la città eterna (the eternal city) where la dolce vita (the sweet life) meets timeless history, offering visitors an avventura indimenticabile (unforgettable adventure) through its bustling streets and quiet corners. As you sip a morning espresso or enjoy a leisurely passeggiata (stroll) at sunset, you’ll find yourself immersed in a city that perfectly blends its storied past with a vibrant present. I have been to Rome numerous times over the years and last year I had the privilege of spending a total of three weeks in this remarkable city. In this 5-day Rome itinerary I will guide you through the heart of Rome, showcasing iconic landmarks, hidden gems, and providing you with insider tips to make your journey unforgettable.

A Brief History of Rome

Founded in 753 BC by Romulus, mythology credits him and his twin brother Remus with Rome’s creation. From its inception as a small village on the Palatine Hill, Rome evolved into the caput mundi, or capital of the world, an epicenter of the Roman Republic and later the Roman Empire. Just imagine, as you walk through the city, you are treading the same ground as legendary figures like Julius Caesar, Cicero, and the philosophical emperor Marcus Aurelius, whose Stoic writings were composed amidst the complexities of empire governance.

The fall of Rome in the 5th century marked the end of the classical era, but the city remained significant, especially as the heart of the Roman Catholic Church. Throughout the Renaissance, it regained prominence, artists and architects like Michelangelo and Bernini adding layers of Baroque and Renaissance charm to the city’s ancient grandeur. Rome is truly a masterpiece of the Roman Empire.

How To Get To Rome

Rome is well-connected and accessible from anywhere in the world, making your journey to this historic city as easy as a stroll through one of its scenic plazas.

By Air

The primary gateway to Rome by air is through Leonardo da Vinci Airport, commonly known as Fiumicino Airport (FCO). Located about 30 kilometers west of the city center, Fiumicino is Italy’s largest airport and serves international and domestic flights, offering connections to and from cities across the globe. For those traveling from European and some Mediterranean countries, Ciampino Airport (CIA) is a smaller alternative, mainly handling low-cost airlines and charter flights.

Airport Transfers:

• Leonardo Express Train: The fastest way to reach the city center from Fiumicino. The Leonardo Express leaves every 15 minutes and takes approximately 30 minutes to reach Termini Station, Rome’s main transport hub.
• Terravision Bus: A budget-friendly option with services connecting Fiumicino and Ciampino airports to Termini Station.
• Taxi: Fixed-rate taxis are available at both airports. Ensure you get into a licensed taxi at the designated stands. You can also pre-book your airport transfer with Welcome Pickups.
• Car Rental: Available for pick-up at both airports if you prefer driving yourself around the city, which is not really advisable unless you decide to do a road trip. Make sure to book your car in advance.

Recommended Tours

Alone in Rome’s Catacombs: Exclusive After Hours Tour with Bone Chapel

Pompeii with Panoramic Winery Lunch on Vesuvius: Day Trip from Rome

Where to Stay in Rome: Top Central Hotel Options

Rome offers a plethora of accommodation options, ranging from luxury hotels to charming boutique inns, ensuring every traveler finds a perfect spot to rest after a day of exploration. Staying centrally located is key to making the most of your visit, as it allows easy access to major sites and the atmospheric Roman streets. Here are six top-rated hotels, centrally located and well-reviewed, that cater to a variety of tastes and budgets:

1. Hotel Hassler Roma

• Location: Situated at the top of the Spanish Steps, Hotel Hassler is one of Rome’s most prestigious hotels, offering luxurious rooms and spectacular city views. For availability and rates click here.
• Features: It boasts a Michelin-starred restaurant, elegant spa, and is within walking distance of major landmarks like the Trevi Fountain and Villa Borghese.

2. Hotel Palazzo Manfredi – Small Luxury Hotels of the World

• Location: Directly overlooking the Colosseum, this hotel offers a stunning perspective of ancient Rome from its rooms and rooftop restaurant. For availability and rates click here
• Features: It combines modern luxury with rich historical ambiance, and its restaurant offers exceptional dining with an unbeatable view.

3. J.K. Place Roma – The Leading Hotels of the World

• Location: Nestled in the heart of the city near the Tiber River, J.K. Place Roma is steps away from the shopping heaven of Via Condotti and close to the Pantheon. For availability and rates click here.
• Features: This boutique hotel stands out with its sophisticated decor, outstanding service, and a cozy lounge area that feels like a private club.

4. The St. Regis Rome

• Location: Situated near the Piazza della Repubblica, this iconic hotel offers grandeur and elegance within walking distance to the Trevi Fountain and Spanish Steps. For availability and rates click here.
• Features: Known for its luxurious rooms, personalized butler service, and sumptuous interiors, it provides a truly opulent Roman stay.

5. Hotel Campo de’ Fiori

• Location: Located in the vibrant Campo de’ Fiori area, this boutique hotel is perfect for those who want to experience the lively local life of Rome. For availability and rates click here.
• Features: It offers beautifully decorated rooms with a vintage feel and a rooftop terrace that gives a panoramic view of the city’s rooftops.

6. Albergo del Senato

• Location: This hotel is right next to the Pantheon and within easy walking distance of Piazza Navona and other central sights. For availability and rates click here.
• Features: It features classic décor, friendly service, and some rooms offer views of the Pantheon, making it a favorite for those seeking a historic atmosphere.

A 5-Day in Rome Itinerary

Day 1 in Rome: Colosseum, Roman Forum, Palatine Hill, Trastevere

Begin your exploration of Rome at the Colosseum, marveling at the architectural genius of ancient Rome. Imagine the spectacles attended by emperors like Marcus Aurelius, who, despite his philosophical inclinations, presided over the empire from this very city. The Colosseum Rome’s iconic emblem and one of the most cherished historical sites in the world, drawing countless visitors each year who come to marvel at its grandeur and timeless allure.

The tickets to enter the Colosseum sell out very fast, this is why I would recommend that if you want to visit the Colosseum from the inside it is best to book a small group guided tour. The company which I personally use and highly recommend is Walks and you can join their Premium Colosseum Tour with Roman Forum & Palatine Hill. Make sure to book your experience well in advance. You might also like to join this full day tour – Rome In A Day Tour with Vatican, Colosseum & Historic Center.

Once you are done with exploring the world’s famous arena you will continue to the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill, the center of Roman political life and the mythical founding spot of Rome. As you walk through the core of the old city, each stone will narrate tales of political plots, eccentric emperors, ancient religious rites, and numerous conspiracies—including the spot where Julius Caesar was cremated, the remnants of venerable temples, and the bustling hubs of commerce and governance.

You’ll venture back even further in time at Palatine Hill, the reputed birthplace of Rome according to legend. It was here that the famous she-wolf is said to have discovered the twins Remus and Romulus, the site of their subsequent struggle to found the city, and the cradle of Rome’s rise to glory.

If you want to further immerse yourself in the history of Rome and if you opted for the morning tour recommended up next you can visit the Musei Capitolini.

The Musei Capitolini is located atop Rome’s Capitoline Hill, and holds the distinction of being the world’s oldest national museum, established in 1471 when Pope Sixtus IV donated a collection of significant ancient bronzes to the Roman populace.

This historic museum complex encompasses the Palazzo dei Conservatori and Palazzo Nuovo, which together house a remarkable assortment of ancient Roman and Renaissance artifacts, including the famous equestrian statue of Marcus Aurelius, the Capitoline Wolf depicting Rome’s legendary founders Romulus and Remus, and masterful sculptures like the Dying Gaul.

Additionally, the museums boast an impressive collection of paintings by masters such as Caravaggio and Tintoretto. This museum is often overlooked by visitors but if you have the time, I highly recommend a visit.

Explore Trastevere

In the late afternoon or early evening, head to Trastevere, a neighborhood that captures the essence of Rome’s layers of history with its medieval streets.

Enjoy an authentic Roman meal and the vibrant atmosfera that this district offers after dusk. You might also enjoy joining a food tour while in Rome. This Rome Pizza Making Class & Dinner in Trastevere is a fantastic choice or if you don’t feel like cooking you can opt for the Trastevere at Sunset: Rome Food & Wine Tour.

Check out my post where I review 6 Food Tours which I took during my trip to Rome – From Pasta to Gelato: The Best Food Tours in Rome You Can’t Miss

Day 2 in Rome: Piazza Navona, Pantheon, Trevi Fountain, Spanish Steps, Borghese Gallery & Gardens

On the second day of your 5-day itinerary in Rome, begin your exploration at the heart of the city starting with Piazza Navona. For those looking to avoid the crowds and enjoy the tranquility of the morning, an early visit is recommended. Depending on your schedule and how many days you are planning to spend in Rome, you can also visit all the below mentioned places on a Welcome to Rome: City Stroll with Gelato Tasting small group tour.

Piazza Navone

However, if you’re eager to experience the vibrant atmosphere that Piazza Navona is famous for, consider timing your visit to coincide with aperitivo hour in the late afternoon. This is when the square truly comes to life with locals and tourists alike, enjoying drinks and snacks at the surrounding cafes, and immersing in the lively street performances that characterize this iconic Roman gathering spot.

Piazza Navona is one of Rome’s most picturesque squares, celebrated for its elegant Baroque architecture and vibrant atmosphere. Built on the site of the 1st-century AD Stadium of Domitian, it features three magnificent fountains: the central Fontana dei Quattro Fiumi (Fountain of the Four Rivers) designed by Gian Lorenzo Bernini, and two others—Fontana del Moro and Fontana del Nettuno (Neptune Fountain)—that add to its charm. Dominating the square is the Church of Sant’Agnese in Agone, a stunning example of Baroque architecture designed by Francesco Borromini.

As a cultural hub, Piazza Navona bustles with artists, street performers, and seasonal markets, especially during the Christmas season when it hosts a traditional market. This location makes it an ideal starting point for exploring Rome’s rich historical tapestry, conveniently situated within walking distance of other major sites like the Pantheon and Trevi Fountain.

Admire the Grandness of the Pantheon

The Pantheon is one of Rome’s best-preserved ancient monuments and it is one of my favorites. I have been inside and passed by on countless occasions, but every time I see it, I literally feel goosebumps. It is magnificent and stands as a masterpiece of architectural brilliance and historical depth.

Originally built as a temple to all Roman gods in 126 AD by Emperor Hadrian, the Pantheon was later converted into a Christian church. Notably, it houses the tomb of the renowned Renaissance artist Raphael, making it a site of pilgrimage for art lovers. The building is famed for its massive dome and oculus, which provide a dramatic light effect and symbolize the heavens. The dome is actually open, so when it rains, the rain water falls inside the monument.

Frequented by historical figures such as Marcus Aurelius, the Pantheon offers visitors a direct connection to the lives of Rome’s great past leaders and thinkers. Its remarkable state of preservation and its continuous use through history render it an invaluable link between ancient Rome and the modern world. Kindly note that moderate dressing is required when entering the Pantheon. Make sure to book your entry ticket in advance.

After visiting the Pantheon, continue your exploration of Rome by heading to two of its most iconic landmarks: the Trevi Fountain and the Spanish Steps.

Throw A Coin at The Trevi Fountain

The Trevi Fountain, the largest Baroque fountain in the city and one of the most famous fountains in the world, is an absolute must-see.

Completed in 1762 and designed by Nicola Salvi, this stunning work of art depicts Neptune, god of the sea, riding a chariot in the form of a shell pulled by sea horses, each guided by a Triton. Legend has it that if you throw a coin over your shoulder into the fountain, you will ensure your return to Rome. The fountain’s dramatic and detailed sculptures, combined with the play of water and light, make for a magical experience, especially captivating at night when it is beautifully illuminated.

If you want to experience it with very few people then I would advise to visit early in the morning around 7 am, you can also sit down for a coffee and pastry to admire the view. It is usually very crowded in the evenings. If you are staying in the historical center, which I recommend that you do, then you will surely pass the Fontana Di Trevi on more than one occasion.

Spanish Steps

A short walk from the Trevi Fountain will take you to the Spanish Steps, another emblematic spot in Rome. These steps run from the Piazza di Spagna at the base up to the Trinità dei Monti church at the top. Built in the 1720s with funds from a French diplomat, the steps consist of 135 steps and are the widest staircase in Europe. They have long been a gathering place for artists, poets, and later, tourists. In spring, the steps are adorned with beautiful pink azaleas, adding to their charm and making them a perfect backdrop for photographs.

At the base of the Spanish Steps, you’ll find the Piazza di Spagna, which is not only famous for the steps themselves but also for the Fontana della Barcaccia, a striking fountain that pre-dates the steps. Designed by Pietro Bernini and his more famous son, Gian Lorenzo Bernini, the fountain resembles a sinking ship and is said to commemorate the flooding of the Tiber in the early 17th century. The fountain’s low-lying design was necessary due to the low water pressure at the time and now serves as a refreshing spot for visitors climbing the steps.

Shopping on Via dei Condotti near Spanish Steps

The area around the Spanish Steps is also Rome’s premier shopping district, known as the Via dei Condotti. This street is lined with high-end fashion boutiques and designer stores, making it a hotspot for fashion enthusiasts. Leading brands like Chanel, Gucci, Dior, Prada, and Dolce & Gabbana showcase their lavish storefronts here. It’s a great place to shop for luxury goods or even to simply enjoy window shopping and the bustling atmosphere. It is also a great place to enjoy lunch. Make sure to check out my post – Ultimate Foodie Guide: Best Places to Eat in Rome.

Visit the Borghese Gallery

Conclude your day with a visit to the Borghese Gallery and Gardens, a resplendent testament to Rome’s enduring allure in art and nature. This oasis in the heart of the city not only houses one of the most impressive art collections in the world but also offers a tranquil escape with its beautifully landscaped gardens. To make the most of your visit I would highly recommend booking this small group tour – Borghese Gallery Tour & Tickets: With Bernini, Caravaggio & Raphael.

The Borghese Gallery (Galleria Borghese) is housed in the former Villa Borghese Pinciana. Commissioned by Cardinal Scipione Borghese in the early 17th century, the villa is home to a substantial part of the Borghese collection of paintings, sculpture, and antiquities. The gallery features masterpieces by some of the greatest artists of all time, including Bernini, Caravaggio, Titian, and Raphael. Highlights include Bernini’s dynamic sculptures such as “Apollo and Daphne” and “The Rape of Proserpina,” which display his incredible ability to capture motion and emotion in marble. Caravaggio’s paintings, like “David with the Head of Goliath” and “Boy with a Basket of Fruit,” are notable for their dramatic realism and use of chiaroscuro.

Surrounding the gallery, the Borghese Gardens (Villa Borghese) are among the largest public parks in Rome. Designed in the naturalistic English manner and modified from an original Italianate garden, the gardens are filled with fountains, statues, and several smaller museums and attractions.

Visitors can explore the peaceful pathways, rent bikes to ride around, or even enjoy a boat ride on the small lake. The gardens offer a pleasant respite from the bustling city and provide panoramic views over Piazza del Popolo and the heart of Rome.

Day 3 in Rome: The Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel, St. Peter’s Basilica, Vatican Necropolis

Devote the third day your 5 day Roman itinerary to the Vatican City, a sovereign state within Rome and the spiritual epicenter for millions around the globe. This day will be an immersive journey through some of the most awe-inspiring examples of religious art and architecture in the world, layered with centuries of ecclesiastical history.

I would highly advise you to visit the Vatican City on a guided tour in order to really get the best experience possible. You can either opt for the Complete Vatican Tour which last for 3.5 hours or take the Pristine Sistine Early Entrance Small Group Vatican Tour. If you want a truly unique and rare experience then you can join the Alone In The Vatican: Exclusive VIP Access Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel Tour. You will get to visit before the Museums open to the public or after they’ve closed their doors, completely empty and free of crowds.  And if you want a completely unique experience of unlocking the Sistine Chapel, you can do that on this VIP Key Master’s Tour: Open The Sistine Chapel.

Vatican Museums: Begin your exploration at the Vatican Museums, a massive complex of galleries that host one of the world’s most impressive art collections. Acquired over centuries by the popes, the museums contain classical sculptures, Renaissance masterpieces, and stunning artifacts from around the globe. Notable highlights include the Raphael Rooms, painted by Raphael and his students, and the Gallery of Maps, lined with detailed topographical maps of Italy from the 16th century. Given the extensive collection, consider joining a guided tour to better understand the historical and artistic significance of the works on display.

Sistine Chapel: The journey through the museums culminates in a visit to the Sistine Chapel, an iconic symbol of the Vatican’s cultural and religious stature. Michelangelo’s ceiling frescoes here are the chapel’s crowning glory, featuring scenes from the Book of Genesis, including the famous “Creation of Adam.” The Last Judgment, also by Michelangelo, covers the entire altar wall and is a profound representation of the Second Coming. The chapel is not only a sanctuary of art but also serves as the site of the Papal Conclave, where new popes are elected.

St. Peter’s Basilica: Next, step into St. Peter’s Basilica, the largest and perhaps most renowned Christian church in the world. This architectural masterpiece, principally designed by Donato Bramante, Michelangelo, and Gian Lorenzo Bernini, is a showcase of Renaissance and Baroque architecture. Inside, you’ll find many priceless works of art, including Michelangelo’s Pietà and Bernini’s Baldachin over the papal altar. Climbing to the dome, designed by Michelangelo, offers a breathtaking panoramic view of Vatican City and beyond. Check out this tour St. Peter’s Basilica from Top to Bottom with Dome Climb & Crypt

Vatican Necropolis: For a deeper historical experience, visit the Vatican Necropolis beneath St. Peter’s Basilica. This site includes the Tomb of St. Peter and other Roman mausoleums, offering a rare glimpse into early Christian burial practices and the very foundations upon which the church is built. Tours of the necropolis are available but must be booked well in advance due to limited access.

Walk The Ponte Sant’Angelo

Once you have completed your visit to the Vatican City you can head towards the majestic Ponte Sant’Angelo. The bridge was originally constructed in 134 AD by Emperor Hadrian as a means to span the Tiber River and access his newly built mausoleum (now known as Castel Sant’Angelo). You might also enjoy joining this small group tour – Roman Icons: Pantheon to Castel Sant’Angelo Tour with Panoramic View.

It was once known as the “Pons Aelius” or Bridge of Hadrian, but took on its current name in the 7th century when the Archangel Michael was said to have appeared at the top of the mausoleum, signaling the end of a devastating plague. The bridge is adorned with ten magnificent angel statues designed by Gian Lorenzo Bernini (although executed by his students), each carrying an instrument of the Passion of Christ, adding a layer of spiritual profundity and artistic splendor.

These baroque statues not only enhance the aesthetic appeal of the bridge but also evoke a deep spiritual resonance as you walk across the Tiber towards the historic castle. The Ponte Sant’Angelo is not only a vital pedestrian thoroughfare but also a place of spectacular views and a favorite subject for artists and photographers, capturing the essence of Rome’s enduring history and architectural beauty.

Day 4 in Rome: Day Trip Options from Rome

Day 4 of your Roman itinerary offers an exciting opportunity to explore beyond the city’s boundaries and discover the diverse Italian landscapes and cultures. Here are five fantastic day trip options:

Amalfi Coast: Just a few hours from Rome, the Amalfi Coast offers stunning coastal scenery with its dramatic cliffs, lush gardens, and spectacular sea views. The picturesque towns of Positano, Amalfi, and Ravello each provide unique charm, with their colorful houses, pebbly beaches, and artisan shops. Explore the winding streets, enjoy authentic coastal cuisine, and soak in the panoramic views of the Mediterranean. Check out this tour – Boat-Hopping On The Amalfi Coast: Day Trip from Rome.

You can also combine your Amalfi Coast experience with Pompeii on this small group tour – Pompeii Tour from Rome with Amalfi Coast Drive.

Florence: The birthplace of the Renaissance, Florence is a treasure trove of art and architecture. It’s home to some of the world’s most famous artworks and buildings, including Michelangelo’s David, Brunelleschi’s Dome on the Florence Cathedral, and the Uffizi Gallery, which houses Botticelli’s The Birth of Venus. The city’s compact size makes it ideal for a day trip, with most major attractions clustered around the historic center. Check out this tour Florence from Rome by High-Speed Train: Full Day Guided Tour with Market, David & City Stroll or if you wish to visit the famous wine region check out this tour Quintessential Tuscany: Wine Tasting & Hilltowns from Rome

Naples: Vibrant and packed with personality, Naples offers a stark contrast to Rome’s imperial grandeur. Known for its rich history, lively streets, and culinary inventions, particularly pizza, Naples also serves as a gateway to the archaeological sites of Pompeii and Herculaneum. The city’s historic center is a UNESCO World Heritage site, filled with medieval castles, sprawling piazzas, and museums worth exploring. You might like to check out this tour From Rome: Pompeii and Naples Day Trip by High-Speed Train

Pompeii: A day trip to Pompeii transports you back to ancient Roman times. The city was famously frozen in time by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD, preserving its buildings, artifacts, and even some of its residents in volcanic ash. Walking through the extensive ruins, you can visit homes, shops, and baths, as well as the Forum and the Amphitheatre, offering a profound insight into daily Roman life. Enhance your day trip by opting for this small group tour Pompeii with Panoramic Winery Lunch on Vesuvius: Day Trip from Rome, which also takes you to a fantastic winery at the foothills of Mt Vesuvius. I personally tried this tour and loved the experience. If you are not into wines then this is the tour for you Complete Pompeii Experience: Skip the Line Tour & Archaeologist Guide.

Venice: Although it’s a bit further afield, modern high-speed trains can get you to Venice in about 3.5 to 4 hours, making it feasible for a long day trip but I would personally recommend spending at least two nights in Venice. Venice is renowned for its intricate waterways, striking architecture, and rich maritime history. Highlights include a gondola ride through the canals, a visit to the Piazza San Marco to see the Basilica and the Doge’s Palace, and exploring the colorful island of Burano.

Day 5 of 5 Days in Rome itinerary: Jewish Ghetto, Basilica di San Clemente, Testaccio, Roman Catacombs

For the final day of your Roman adventure, dive into some of the city’s less traversed but deeply historic locales that provide a unique glimpse into its layered past and vibrant cultural life.

Jewish Ghetto: Start your day in the historic Jewish Ghetto, one of the oldest Jewish settlements in Europe, established in 1555. This area retains a unique charm, with its narrow lanes, artisan shops, and kosher bakeries.

The main focal point is the Great Synagogue of Rome, built in 1904, which houses the Jewish Museum of Rome. Here, you can learn about the history of Jews in Rome through artifacts and exhibitions. The Ghetto is also famous for its culinary tradition, especially the carciofi alla giudia (Jewish-style artichokes).

Basilica di San Clemente al Laterano: Next, visit the Basilica di San Clemente, a unique historical and architectural site that offers a journey through time. The current basilica is actually built on top of two earlier structures: a 4th-century church and beneath it, a 2nd-century Mithraic temple and Roman house. The layers of buildings can be explored through a fascinating descent into the underground excavations, where you can see well-preserved frescoes, mosaics, and the ancient cult altar.

Testaccio: Head to the neighborhood of Testaccio, known for its authentic Roman atmosphere and as the heart of Rome’s traditional cuisine. Testaccio is ideal for experiencing daily Roman life amidst locals. The neighborhood’s market, Mercato di Testaccio, offers a variety of fresh foods and traditional Roman dishes. Don’t miss trying some classic Roman street food or visiting an authentic trattoria. Testaccio is also famous for its nightlife and cultural spots like the Monte Testaccio, an ancient Roman pottery dump, and the MACRO museum of contemporary art housed in a former slaughterhouse. I highly recommend taking this tour which starts in the morning Tastes & Traditions of Rome: Testaccio Food and Market Tour

Roman Catacombs: Conclude your day with a visit to the Roman Catacombs, located just outside the city along the ancient Appian Way. These underground burial sites, such as Catacombs of San Callisto or San Sebastiano, offer a hauntingly beautiful insight into early Christian burial practices, featuring miles of tunnels lined with tombs. The frescoes, sculptures, and inscriptions here provide a poignant glimpse into the early Christians’ life and beliefs. Check out this tour Alone in Rome’s Catacombs: Exclusive After Hours Tour with Bone Chapel or this tour Crypts, Bones & Catacombs: An Underground Tour of Rome

Conclusion

This five-day itinerary in Rome has been thoroughly planned out to offer a comprehensive exploration of the city’s rich history, vibrant culture, and breathtaking art. From the ancient majesty of the Colosseum and the Vatican’s sacred treasures to the charming streets of Trastevere and the bustling Testaccio market, you’ll get to experience the diverse tapestry that makes Rome eternal. This itinerary not only mentions the landmarks but also provides a glimpse into the everyday life of the city, promising a wonderful trip to the Eternal City.