The Perfect 3 Day Rome Itinerary for First-Timers
Planning your first trip to the Eternal City? This ultimate 3 day Rome itinerary covers iconic sights, hidden gems, and local favorites for the perfect Roman adventure.
Rome is a city that needs little introduction—after all, they don’t call it the Eternal City for nothing. A place where ancient ruins sit side-by-side with modern trattorias, where every cobbled street seems to lead to yet another piazza buzzing with life, and where history quite literally seeps from every stone.
From the mighty Colosseum and the grandeur of the Vatican to quiet moments over espresso in Trastevere, Rome has a way of seducing you, whether it’s your first visit or your fiftieth.
Living in Italy, I’m lucky enough to find myself in Rome at least twice a year, but before that, my art history degree also took me to Rome quite a bit. It’s the kind of city I never tire of—every visit offers a new discovery, be it a hidden wine bar, a rooftop terrace I missed the last time, or a brand new boutique hotel.
Over time, I’ve curated my own personal map of the city: where to go for the best carbonara (not negotiable), where to escape the crowds, and where to soak up that quintessential Roman dolce far niente.
If you’re planning a design-forward, boutique-style trip to Rome, this Rome itinerary will guide you through my favorite stylish stays, atmospheric neighborhoods, and cultural essentials. Three days in Rome is just enough to hit the classics and squeeze in some of those quieter, more local experiences too.
Keep reading for a curated guide to the best things to do in Rome in three days—espresso breaks and sunset views absolutely included.
*This 3-day Rome itinerary may contain affiliate links meaning I might make a small profit if you choose to book at no extra cost to you. This helps me to keep providing you with top-quality content for free.
Best Time to Visit Rome, Italy
Rome is never not busy. As one of the world’s most iconic cities, tourists flow through its ancient streets year-round. That said, timing your visit can make a huge difference to your experience.
Summer, especially July and August, I think, is best avoided. The city gets sweltering, locals flee to the coast, and you’ll find yourself elbow-to-elbow with other tourists in every piazza. August in particular sees many restaurants and small businesses shut down completely for the Italian holiday period—something that catches many travelers off guard.
The shoulder seasons—April to June and September to early November—are arguably the sweet spot. You’ll get the best balance of pleasant weather and manageable crowds. Think long lunches al fresco without the oppressive heat and just enough buzz without the chaos.
Winter (December through February) might surprise you as a fantastic time to visit if you’re after a quieter, more atmospheric Rome. While you’ll need to keep an eye on the weather (rain and chillier days are common), hotel rates drop, queues vanish, and there’s something magical about sipping a cappuccino in a near-empty piazza.
How Long to Spend in Rome?
As long as you can. Rome isn’t the kind of city you “do” in a day or two—it’s a place that rewards lingering, wandering, and letting yourself get a little lost.
For first-time visitors, I’d say 5 to 7 days is ideal. That gives you enough time to explore the big hitters like the Colosseum, Vatican Museums, and Pantheon, but also to slow down and enjoy the city’s quieter pleasures—long lunches, lazy afternoons in Trastevere, and those impromptu aperitivo stops that somehow stretch into dinner.
That said, I know many of you are squeezing Rome into a wider Italian itinerary, balancing it alongside Florence, Venice, or the Amalfi Coast.
If that’s the case, three days in Rome offers a great introduction. It’s enough to see the essential sights and get a feel for Rome’s chaotic charm. However long you spend here, you’ll be planning your return before you’ve even left.
Getting To and Around Rome
Getting to Rome is as easy as booking a flight to Fiumicino (FCO), Rome’s main international airport, which connects the city to just about everywhere. From the airport, you’re looking at a 30-40 minute drive into the city center, or you can hop on the Leonardo Express train, which zips you straight to Termini Station in about 30 minutes.
If you’re arriving from elsewhere in Italy, Rome’s train network is excellent. Fast trains (Frecciarossa or Italo) link the city to Florence, Naples, Milan, and even Puglia, making rail travel one of the most efficient ways to get here.
Once you’re in Rome, walking is really the best way to go. Rome’s historical center is surprisingly compact, and the best way to experience it is on foot—each alleyway and piazza has its own charm that you’d miss behind the window of a taxi.
For longer journeys or when your feet give up (which, trust me, they will), public transport is decent: the metro, buses, and trams cover much of the city. That said, don’t expect Milan-level efficiency. If you’re short on time or energy, taxis and ride-sharing apps like Free Now work well, though be aware that taxis aren’t hailed off the street—you’ll need to find a taxi stand or book one.
Don’t bother renting a car for a 3 day Rome itinerary. Roman traffic is chaos on a good day, and parking is a logistical nightmare.
3-Day Rome Itinerary for First-Time Travelers
Before we get into the itinerary itself, here are a few notes and pointers to take into account when planning your trip.
This itinerary is designed by neighborhood and area—a strategy that’ll save you both time and sanity when navigating the Eternal City. Rome is massive, sprawling, and yes, a little chaotic. But the good news is that the historical center is fairly compact and very walkable.
To help avoid crisscrossing the city unnecessarily (which, trust me, drains both energy and espresso reserves), I’ve grouped each day by neighborhood, so you can explore one area fully before moving on.
As this guide is aimed at first-timers to Rome, we’re covering the big-ticket sights—you know, the ones you’ve probably been dreaming about for years: the Colosseum, Vatican Museums, Trevi Fountain… all the classics.
But between those, I’ve woven in local spots and hidden gems—places that feel more personal, more Roman. These are the corners of the city I return to time and again, and I’m sharing them here so you get both the iconic and the intimate sides of Rome.
Now, full disclosure: this 3 day Rome itinerary is A LOT. I’ve packed in as much intel and as many insider tips as possible to help you make the most of your time. But—and this is important—don’t feel pressured to tick everything off. Rome is a city that rewards slowing down as much as it does sightseeing. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, skip a museum, linger over lunch, or detour down a side street. Consider this your guide, not a checklist.
3 Day Rome Itinerary Overview
Day One– Historic Center – Trevi Fountain, Campo de’Fiori, Pantheon, Galleria Doria Pamphilj, Piazza Navona, Spanish Steps, Villa Borghese
Day Two– St. Peter’s Basilica, Vatican Museums, Castel Sant’Angelo, Trastevere
Day Three– Colosseum, Roman Forum, Capitoline Museums, Palatine Hill, Monument to Victor Emmanuel II
Rome Itinerary Day One
Trevi Fountain
No trip to Rome is complete without a stop at the Trevi Fountain, one of the city’s most iconic (and photogenic) landmarks.
Built in the 18th century, this Baroque masterpiece isn’t just a pretty face—legend has it that tossing a coin over your left shoulder into the fountain guarantees a return trip to Rome. And honestly, it’s a ritual worth partaking in, if only for the cinematic moment.
That said, prepare yourself: the Trevi Fountain is almost always busy. Early mornings (as in 6 am) or late evenings are your best bet if you’re hoping to catch it without the crowds.
Campo de’Fiori
After your early morning stop at the Trevi Fountain, make your way to Campo de’ Fiori—one of Rome’s most atmospheric squares and home to a lively daily market that’s been running since the 1800s.
Come here in the early morning, when locals still outnumber tourists, to watch vendors set up stalls overflowing with fresh produce, flowers, spices, and pasta (because, Rome).
It’s a great place to get a sense of daily Roman life, chat with stallholders, or simply soak up the energy of the square over a cappuccino. While the market itself winds down by early afternoon, the square transforms later in the day into a buzzing spot for aperitivo. But for that quintessential, local vibe, the morning is when Campo de’ Fiori truly shines.
Pantheon
The Pantheon isn’t just one of Rome’s must-see sights—it’s one of the most extraordinary architectural feats in the world. Originally built as a temple to “all the gods” in 126 AD under Emperor Hadrian, the Pantheon has stood the test of time like few other buildings in the city.
Its massive domed ceiling, still the world’s largest unreinforced concrete dome nearly 2,000 years later, is nothing short of awe-inspiring. Walking inside, you’ll instantly feel the weight of history in its perfect symmetry and the light streaming down through the oculus, the circular opening at the dome’s apex.
Throughout the centuries, the Pantheon has shifted from a pagan temple to a Christian church, which is likely why it’s been so well preserved. Today, it houses the tombs of Italian royalty and famed Renaissance artist Raphael.
I recommend timing your visit mid-morning, when the sunlight filtering through the oculus casts dramatic beams across the marble floor—proof that even in Rome, some things are simply timeless.
Galleria Doria Pamphilj
Near the Pantheon, you’ll find one of Rome’s most underrated art experiences—the Galleria Doria Pamphilj. While crowds pack into the Vatican Museums, this private palazzo-turned-gallery offers a far quieter, more personal way to appreciate the city’s artistic heritage.
Still owned by the Pamphilj family (who, rather incredibly, still reside in part of the palace), the gallery itself feels less like a museum and more like an invitation into an aristocrat’s home.
The collection is nothing short of world-class, with masterpieces by Caravaggio, Titian, Raphael, and Velázquez, all displayed within opulent, frescoed halls dripping with chandeliers and antique mirrors. Wandering through its corridors, you’ll pass by grand salons, intimate chapels, and a mirror gallery that feels like something out of Versailles—but without the crowds.
If you’re keen to deepen the experience, consider booking a visit to the Secret Apartment. Tucked away from the main gallery route, this suite of rooms offers a glimpse into the private quarters of the Pamphilj family, complete with original furnishings, personal artifacts, and yet more ornate décor.
It’s an atmospheric, slightly voyeuristic peek behind the scenes that not many visitors take the time to experience.
Piazza Navona is Rome’s most elegant square—and easily one of its most photogenic. Built atop the site of an ancient Roman stadium, the elongated shape of the piazza hints at its sporting past, though today it’s all about Baroque beauty and lively street life.
The square is flanked by pastel-hued palazzi, open-air cafes, and artists selling paintings, but the real stars here are the three magnificent fountains.
At the center stands Bernini’s Fountain of the Four Rivers (Fontana dei Quattro Fiumi), a theatrical masterpiece representing the four great rivers of the known continents at the time: the Nile, Ganges, Danube, and Rio de la Plata. Topped with an Egyptian obelisk, the fountain is pure Roman drama—Bernini at his flamboyant best.
At either end of the square, you’ll find Fontana del Moro and Fontana del Nettuno, slightly smaller but equally charming fountains that balance the space beautifully.
Piazza Navona is a spot to linger—whether it’s people-watching over a spritz, admiring the fountains up close, or simply soaking up that Roman piazza life. For fewer crowds, come early morning or late evening, when the fountains sparkle in the lamplight and the square feels that little bit more magical.
Spanish Steps
The Spanish Steps are one of those iconic Roman landmarks that somehow manage to be both a must-see and a bit of a mystery—after all, they’re… stairs. But what stairs they are.
Built in the 18th century to connect the Piazza di Spagna with the Trinità dei Monti church above, the Spanish Steps have long been a social hub, a place to sit, linger, and watch the city move around you.
At the base of the steps, you’ll find Fontana della Barcaccia, a quirky little fountain designed by Bernini’s father, shaped like a sinking boat. From here, the view looking up toward the church is postcard-perfect, especially when the steps are decorated with seasonal flowers.
A word of advice: while sitting on the Spanish Steps used to be a rite of passage for visitors, it’s now technically prohibited, with fines issued for those who linger too long. That said, the area still buzzes with energy, especially in the early evening when locals and tourists alike converge.
Villa Borghese
Just above the Spanish Steps, you’ll find a quieter, greener side of Rome at Villa Borghese, the city’s answer to Central Park. This sprawling landscape of manicured gardens, shady pathways, and scenic terraces is the perfect escape from Rome’s hustle—ideal for an evening stroll, bike ride, or even a lazy afternoon picnic (very Roman of you).
But at the heart of the park lies one of Rome’s true art treasures: the Galleria Borghese. Housed in a former cardinal’s villa, this museum is a compact but dazzling showcase of Renaissance and Baroque masterpieces.
Expect works by Caravaggio, Bernini, Raphael, and Canova, all displayed in ornate rooms that feel almost as impressive as the art itself. Bernini’s sculptures alone—like his famous Apollo and Daphne—are worth the price of admission.
A couple of things to note: tickets to Galleria Borghese must be booked in advance due to timed entry slots (don’t skip this step, as spots often sell out). After your visit, take time to wander the park’s terraces for panoramic views over Piazza del Popolo and Rome’s rooftops.
Hidden Gems in the Historic Center
As you explore Rome’s historic center, make sure to pin these spots to your Google Maps—you’ll want to have them handy when you need a coffee break, a spontaneous aperitivo, or a little retail therapy.
These are the locally loved little gems I personally return to every time I’m in the city: my curated mix of cozy coffee bars, stylish aperitivo spots, and boutique shops that feel a world away from the tourist crowds.
Atelier Bomba – A chic, under-the-radar boutique blending Roman minimalism with high-end design. Perfect for finding that effortlessly cool Italian piece you didn’t know you needed.
Vitti Roma dal 1898 – Classic Roman café near Piazza di Spagna; stop here for an espresso or aperitivo where locals have been gathering for over a century.
Schostal Originals – Old-school haberdashery meets timeless style. Think crisp shirts, quality linens, and a dash of Roman elegance straight from a bygone era. Come here for their excellent pajamas.
Gammarelli – Rome’s legendary tailor for papal robes—yes, really. Pop in for luxurious socks and ecclesiastical flair with serious heritage.
Chez Dédé Store – A concept store that feels like a Roman insider’s living room; part boutique, part art gallery, all curated cool.
Antico Bar Pasticceria Mariani – Hidden gem pastry shop perfect for a quick cornetto and coffee, also aperitivo in the evening. Local, unfussy, and delicious.
Vinaietto – Old Winery – A hole-in-the-wall Roman wine bar where time stands still. Great for an unpretentious glass of local vino.
Emporio Centrale – A stylish general store packed with design-forward Italian goods—from homewares to fashion—with that perfect Roman edge.
Where to Eat in the Historic Center
Rome’s historic center isn’t short on restaurants, but finding the ones that actually live up to the hype is where a little insider knowledge goes a long way.
Below are some of my personal favorites: a mix of local institutions, family-run trattorias, and contemporary spots where you’re guaranteed a great meal, whether you’re after a lazy lunch or a lively dinner. Make sure to book ahead.
Roscioli Salumeria con Cucina – A Roman classic that deserves every bit of its fame. Half deli, half restaurant, Roscioli serves up seriously good pastas (the carbonara is legendary) alongside burrata, cured meats, and wine from their excellent cellar. Book well ahead.
Pierluigi – A polished, upscale spot specializing in seafood, tucked away in a quiet piazza. Perfect for a long, elegant lunch or dinner where you might just spot a celebrity or two.
Caffè Doria – Located inside Galleria Doria Pamphilj, this stylish café is ideal for a mid-morning coffee or a light lunch post-gallery stroll. Think elegant surrounds with less tourist foot traffic.
Antico Forno Roscioli – The more casual cousin to the main Roscioli restaurant. Come here for excellent pizza al taglio, focaccia, and pastries—perfect for a grab-and-go bite while exploring.
Osteria da Fortunata – Known for its handmade pasta (watch the nonnas rolling it fresh as you wait), this rustic spot delivers on Roman comfort food with a lively, no-frills atmosphere. It’s popular—so patience may be required.
La Montecarlo – A locals’ favorite for classic Roman pizza. Thin, crispy, and straight from the wood-fired oven, it’s a no-fuss, all-flavor kind of place where the vibe is as enjoyable as the pies.
Luciano Cucina Italiana – A modern trattoria that’s become one of my go-to spots for creative takes on Roman classics. The cacio e pepe and carbonara here are next level, and the vibe feels fresh without losing that Roman soul.
Rome Itinerary Day Two
St. Peter’s Basilica
Kick off day 2 of this Rome itinerary with a visit to St. Peter’s Basilica, one of the most awe-inspiring churches on the planet—and that’s not an exaggeration.
Located within Vatican City, this Renaissance masterpiece is a true symbol of Rome’s grandeur, from its towering dome (designed by none other than Michelangelo) to its ornate marble interiors dripping in gold and history.
Entry to the basilica itself is free, but be prepared for security lines, especially later in the day—this is why an early morning visit is key. Inside, take your time to marvel at Bernini’s bronze baldachin over the papal altar, Michelangelo’s haunting Pietà (removed from public access until September 2025), and the sheer scale of the space itself. Even if you’re not religious, the artistry and atmosphere here are undeniable.
For panoramic city views, don’t miss the climb to the top of the dome (you can take a lift part of the way). It’s a bit of a workout, but the reward is one of the best viewpoints in Rome—sweeping vistas over St. Peter’s Square and the rooftops of the Eternal City.
Pro tip: cover your shoulders and knees (dress code enforced), and consider booking a guided tour if you want the history brought to life as you explore.
Vatican Museums & The Sistine Chapel
After soaking up St. Peter’s Basilica, it’s time to dive into the Vatican Museums, one of the art highlights of any 3 day Rome itinerary. It’s home to one of the most impressive (and overwhelming) art collections in the world.
Stretching across more than 7 kilometers of galleries, the museums house everything from ancient Roman sculptures to Renaissance masterpieces, Egyptian mummies, and ornate maps. It’s a lot, so pace yourself.
The highlight, of course, is the Sistine Chapel. Michelangelo’s ceiling frescoes are iconic for a reason—seeing The Creation of Adam in person is one of those travel moments that genuinely lives up to the hype. Don’t rush through it. Take your time, look up (constantly), and let the artistry sink in.
To make the most of your visit book tickets in advance—this is non-negotiable unless you love queues. Also consider a guided tour or at least an audio guide; the sheer volume of art can be overwhelming without context. Go early or late for slightly thinner crowds, though realistically, the Vatican Museums are busy no matter when you visit.
By the time you emerge, likely dazed and slightly overwhelmed, reward yourself with a long lunch.
Castel Sant’Angelo
Just a short walk from the Vatican, perched along the Tiber River, Castel Sant’Angelo offers a fascinating slice of Roman history—and some of the city’s most underrated views. Originally built as Emperor Hadrian’s mausoleum in the 2nd century AD, the structure has worn many hats over the centuries: fortress, papal refuge, prison, and now museum.
Inside, you’ll wind your way through atmospheric corridors, former papal apartments, and military ramparts, all while learning about Rome’s more turbulent chapters. But the real draw? The rooftop terrace. From here, you’ll get a stunning panoramic view over St. Peter’s Basilica, the Tiber, and Rome’s historic center—perfect for that mid-afternoon photo stop.
It’s a quieter, more contemplative site compared to the Vatican’s grandeur, but Castel Sant’Angelo tells a side of Rome’s story many visitors miss—and the views alone make it well worth the visit.
Trastevere
Across the Tiber lies Trastevere, Rome’s effortlessly cool, slightly bohemian neighborhood where ivy-clad buildings, cobbled alleyways, and hidden piazzas come together to create pure Roman charm. This is where locals come to eat, drink, and live la dolce vita far from the more tourist-heavy parts of the city.
During the day, Trastevere is sleepy and sun-dappled, perfect for getting lost in its maze of streets, grabbing a coffee at a corner bar, or browsing indie boutiques and artisan workshops. Come evening, the neighborhood comes alive, as trattorias and wine bars spill out onto the streets and the scent of wood-fired pizza drifts through the air.
It’s the perfect neighborhood to spend the rest of the day for a leisurely lunch, a casual aperitivo, or later, a lively dinner spot. It’s the kind of place where you’ll want to linger—Rome at its most authentic and atmospheric, even if today it is a little more touristic than 5 years ago.
For where to eat here, make sure to read and save all my recs from The Best Restaurants in Trastevere, Rome.
Rome Itinerary Day Three
Colosseum
Few places in Rome capture the city’s epic past quite like the Colosseum. Built in 80 AD, this ancient amphitheater is where gladiators once fought to the death before crowds of tens of thousands, and where emperors entertained the masses with games, battles, and even staged naval battles (yes, they actually flooded the arena). Standing beneath its monumental arches today, it’s impossible not to feel the weight of history.
Visiting the Colosseum is more than just a photo op—it’s a full Roman experience. I recommend booking your tickets in advance, as the lines here can be brutal, especially in high season.
Opting for a guided tour or an audio guide really elevates the experience, helping you understand what you’re looking at as you wander through the arena floor, underground passages, and upper tiers. Walking out onto the arena floor itself is particularly special—you’ll get that gladiator’s-eye perspective of the vast stands rising above you.
The best times to visit are the early morning or late afternoon (I’ve factored it in in the early morning here), when the light is still a little golden and the crowds thin out slightly. Whether you’re a history buff or just here for the iconic Rome shot, the Colosseum is pure Roman drama—and one of those rare tourist sights that genuinely lives up to its legend.
Roman Forum
Just next door to the Colosseum, the Roman Forum stretches out like an open-air museum of crumbling columns, ancient temples, and timeworn arches. This was once the beating heart of Ancient Rome—the center of political life, commerce, and religion.
Picture senators debating in the basilicas, triumphant generals parading through, and everyday Romans going about their daily business among these grand structures.
Today, the Forum feels more like a romantic ruin, yet wandering its paths brings the ancient city to life in a way no museum ever could. Key highlights include the Temple of Saturn, the Arch of Septimius Severus, and the House of the Vestal Virgins, but half the joy is simply meandering and imagining what once stood where now there’s little more than moss-covered stone.
It’s worth taking your time here—start from the Colosseum side and work your way toward Palatine Hill, where you’ll find panoramic views over the Forum itself. A guided tour helps put the history into perspective, but even without one, it’s easy to feel the weight of Rome’s imperial past under your feet.
Palatine Hill
Overlooking both the Roman Forum and the Circus Maximus, Palatine Hill is where Rome quite literally began. According to legend, this is where Romulus founded the city in 753 BC, and over time, it became the Beverly Hills of Ancient Rome—the spot where emperors and the elite built their sprawling palaces.
Today, Palatine Hill is a peaceful, often overlooked escape from the crowds below. You’ll find the ruins of imperial residences, shaded gardens, and some of the best panoramic views in the city.
Standing atop the hill, gazing down at the Roman Forum on one side and the Colosseum on the other, it’s easy to understand why the emperors chose this spot as their home base.
It’s included in your Colosseum/Forum ticket, so don’t skip it. After the chaos of the Forum, Palatine Hill feels quiet, expansive, and atmospheric—a perfect place to let the layers of Rome’s history settle in.
Book this tour for Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill access and a guide to all three attractions.
Capitoline Museums
Perched atop Capitoline Hill, the Capitoline Museums are a must for anyone who wants to dig deeper into Rome’s ancient history—and enjoy it in a more curated, less chaotic setting than the Forum below.
Established in 1471, this is actually the world’s oldest public museum, and it’s packed with treasures that chart the rise (and fall) of the Roman Empire.
Inside, you’ll find everything from colossal statues like the Capitoline Wolf (Rome’s famous she-wolf with Romulus and Remus) to imperial busts, ancient inscriptions, and Renaissance paintings. The Marcus Aurelius equestrian statue, once mistaken for Constantine, is another star attraction, now displayed in a stunning glass-enclosed hall.
The museums themselves are housed in grand Renaissance palaces designed by Michelangelo, so the setting is just as impressive as the collection. Bonus: from the museum terraces, you’ll get sweeping views over the Roman Forum and rooftops of the city—one of those hidden viewpoints many visitors miss.
Monument to Victor Emmanuel II
Rising like a giant white wedding cake at the edge of the Roman Forum, the Monument to Victor Emmanuel II is one of Rome’s most divisive landmarks—you’ll either love it or wonder what on earth it’s doing there.
Built in the early 20th century to honor Victor Emmanuel II, the first king of unified Italy, this massive marble structure is officially known as the Altare della Patria (Altar of the Fatherland), but locals often call it simply “the typewriter” or “the wedding cake.”
Architectural opinions aside, it’s worth a visit. Climb the grand staircases flanked by statues and fountains, explore the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier (guarded around the clock), and don’t miss the elevator ride to the rooftop terrace. From the top, you’ll get some of the most spectacular 360-degree views over Rome, stretching from the Colosseum to St. Peter’s Basilica and beyond.
While it might not be ancient, the Monument to Victor Emmanuel II offers a grand, somewhat over-the-top slice of modern Italian history—and some seriously underrated photo opportunities.
Where to Stay in Rome
For first-time visitors to Rome, I’d recommend basing yourself in the historic center for your Rome itinerary. Staying here puts you within easy walking distance of many of the city’s top attractions—think the Pantheon, Piazza Navona, Trevi Fountain, and plenty of great restaurants and cafes tucked down charming cobblestone streets.
It’s touristy, sure, but also incredibly convenient for seeing as much as possible without constantly relying on public transport.
That said, if you’re after a slightly more local vibe, Trastevere is a fantastic alternative. Just across the river, it offers a more relaxed, neighborhood feel while still being close enough to the historic sights.
You’ll find independent boutiques, cozy wine bars, and some of Rome’s best casual dining here—all with that laid-back charm that makes Trastevere so popular with both locals and visitors.
Here are some of my top picks for hotels in Rome:
Palazzo delle Pietre – A luxurious apartment-style stay tucked near Piazza Navona, blending Renaissance architecture with contemporary design—perfect if you want the feel of living like a (very stylish) local.
Hotel dei Barbieri – A sleek boutique hotel near Largo Argentina, with minimalist interiors, warm service, and a location that makes sightseeing effortless.
G-Rough – Rome’s edgiest design hotel, with artfully distressed walls, mid-century furnishings, and a cool, contemporary vibe just steps from Piazza Navona.
Six Senses Rome – Rome’s newest luxury hotel, where sustainability meets five-star elegance. Expect a chic spa, rooftop bar, and calming, minimalist rooms just minutes from the Trevi Fountain.
Rhinoceros Roma – Part art gallery, part hotel, this creative space by Alda Fendi offers unique, design-forward apartments in a quiet corner between the Forum and the Tiber.
Chapter Roma – Industrial-chic interiors and a buzzy, youthful vibe define this stylish boutique stay in the heart of Rome’s Jewish Quarter—perfect for creatives and city-breakers.
Palazzo Ripetta – Housed in a former convent near Piazza del Popolo, this refined boutique hotel balances historical elegance with modern luxury, complete with a lush internal courtyard.
Hotel de la Ville – Perched atop the Spanish Steps, this Rocco Forte property exudes old-world glamour with a contemporary twist. Expect rooftop cocktails, plush rooms, and five-star service.
How will you be spending your 3 day Rome itinerary? Let me know your questions and comments below, I’d love to hear from you.
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