4 days in Rome itinerary
4-day balanced Rome itinerary mixing major sights (ancient Rome, Vatican, Borghese), local neighborhoods (Trastevere, Monti, Testaccio), relaxed breaks and real trattorie. Pacing allows time to enjoy meals and short rests.
Highlights
- Colosseum & Roman Forum
- Vatican Museums & St. Peter's Basilica
- Trastevere and local trattorie
- Appian Way & Parco degli Acquedotti
- Galleria Borghese and Villa Borghese gardens
Itinerary
Day 1
Arrival and gentle exploration of central Rome: fountains, Pantheon and Piazza Navona with an evening trattoria dinner.
Hotel check-in and settle
Check in, drop bags and freshen up at your centrally located hotel.
Local tips:
- Keep a copy of your reservation and ID handy for check-in.
- Ask the front desk for a map and nearby restaurant recommendations.
- If you arrive early they may hold luggage while your room is prepared.
Walk to Trevi Fountain (transfer)
Stretch your legs on a short walk to the fountain.
Local tips:
- Pick up a map or use offline maps for quick navigation.
- Keep belongings secure; Trevi gets busy.
- Best viewed before dusk if possible.
Trevi Fountain visit
Admire (and photograph) Rome’s most famous fountain; toss a coin if you wish.
Local tips:
- Visit briefly — the site is crowded; keep time for nearby sights.
- Avoid eating right at the fountain; vendors nearby are overpriced.
- Be mindful of local rules about climbing on the fountain.
Walk to the Pantheon (transfer)
Short walk through charming lanes toward the Pantheon.
Local tips:
- Watch for scooters and cobblestones underfoot.
- This walk offers classic Roman streetscapes—take photos.
- Free public bathrooms are rare; use cafe facilities if needed.
Pantheon interior and piazza
Explore the ancient temple-turned-church and the lively piazza outside.
Local tips:
- Entrance is sometimes ticketed; check current rules on arrival.
- Listen for guided snippets or bring an audio guide for highlights.
- Visit the nearby small churches and artisan shops.
Coffee break at Sant'Eustachio Il Caffè
Enjoy a classic Roman espresso or cappuccino at a historic café near the Pantheon.
Local tips:
- Try the secret recipes of espresso—ask the barista for recommendations.
- Sit down for the full experience; counter service is quicker but standing is common.
- Prices are higher than neighborhood cafés, but it's an iconic stop.
Stroll Piazza Navona and surroundings (neighborhood)
Walk the lively square, admire Bernini's Fountain of the Four Rivers and the artists.
Local tips:
- This area is great for street artists and people-watching.
- If you want souvenirs, browse side streets for better prices than in the square.
- Consider a quick gelato from a nearby gelateria.
Return to hotel to rest (transfer + break)
Head back to the hotel to relax before dinner.
Local tips:
- Use this time to change for dinner or freshen up.
- Confirm dinner reservation time and directions if needed.
- Ask the hotel for a recommended taxi in the evening if required.
Dinner at Armando al Pantheon
Classic Roman cuisine in a well-regarded trattoria near the Pantheon.
Local tips:
- Reservations recommended, especially for dinner.
- Try seasonal Roman specialities like carbonara or cacio e pepe.
- Ask for house specialties and pair with a local wine.
Day 2
Ancient Rome day: Colosseum, Forum & Palatine followed by the Capitoline Museums and an evening in the Monti neighborhood.
Breakfast at hotel
Buffet breakfast at the hotel to fuel a big day of walking.
Local tips:
- Fill up—museums and ruins involve lots of stairs.
- Grab a bottle of water for the walk.
- Ask staff about early entry options to sites if available.
Transfer to the Colosseum (metro/walk)
Make your way to the Colosseum area; use metro Line B to save time if needed.
Local tips:
- Arrive early to avoid the largest crowds and heat.
- Buy timed-entry tickets in advance to reduce waiting.
- Keep tickets handy for combined Colosseum/Forum/Palatine entry.
Colosseum visit
Explore the iconic amphitheater and learn about its history; guided tours recommended.
Local tips:
- Guided tours or audio guides add context to the ruins.
- Security checks can be slow—factor in extra time.
- Bring sun protection during warmer months.
Roman Forum & Palatine Hill
Wander the heart of ancient Rome; Palatine Hill offers excellent views over the Forum.
Local tips:
- Wear comfortable shoes; paths are uneven.
- Audio guides or a short local guide are helpful for historical context.
- Bring water and sunscreen during summer.
Lunch at La Taverna dei Fori Imperiali
Nearby family-run trattoria offering hearty Roman dishes—ideal after a morning of ruins.
Local tips:
- Popular with both locals and informed visitors—book if possible.
- Try a pasta with seasonal ingredients or a classic Roman offal dish if adventurous.
- Share dishes family-style to taste more options.
Musei Capitolini (Capitoline Museums)
One of the world’s oldest public museums with superb Roman sculpture and city views from the piazza.
Local tips:
- Allow time to enjoy the piazza and views over the Forum.
- Audio guides can help identify key sculptures and paintings.
- Check closing days/hours in advance.
Gelato break at Giolitti
Treat yourself to a quality gelato while walking back toward Monti.
Local tips:
- Giolitti is a historic gelateria—expect a short queue at peak times.
- Try lesser-known flavors in addition to classics.
- Consume while strolling; seating is limited.
Stroll and explore Monti neighborhood
Wander cobbled streets, boutique shops, and artisan workshops; a local-feel neighborhood near the Forum.
Local tips:
- Monti is great for independent boutiques and a lively bar scene.
- Look for vintage stores and small art galleries in side streets.
- Evening markets or pop-ups sometimes occur—ask locals for current spots.
Dinner at Trattoria La Carbonara
Classic Roman cuisine in Monti; known for traditional preparation.
Local tips:
- Reserve ahead for dinner; popular with locals.
- Try their namesake carbonara for an authentic experience.
- Pair with a regional red wine for a full meal.
Day 3
Vatican day: Museums and St. Peter's, then riverside Castel Sant'Angelo and an evening in lively Trastevere with a genuine trattoria dinner.
Breakfast at hotel
Light breakfast at the hotel to prepare for the Vatican visit.
Local tips:
- Vatican visits can be long—consider a small snack for later.
- Check opening times for the Museums to time your arrival.
- Bring a light backpack for essentials; large bags may be checked.
Transfer to Vatican Museums
Make your way to the Vatican area; allow time for security lines.
Local tips:
- Pre-book timed tickets for the Museums to avoid long queues.
- Security checks are mandatory—travel light.
- Consider a guided tour to skip lines and gain deeper insight.
Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel
See the vast collection culminating in Michelangelo's Sistine Chapel; expect several hours indoors.
Local tips:
- Silence is required in the Sistine Chapel; photography is restricted.
- Rent an audio guide or join a small guided group for highlights.
- Bring comfortable shoes—the route is long with many galleries.
St. Peter's Basilica visit
Explore the basilica, its piazza and St. Peter's tomb; climb the dome if time and energy permit.
Local tips:
- Dress modestly (shoulders and knees covered) to enter the basilica.
- For dome climb, expect stairs; elevator only part-way.
- Arrive earlier/later in the day for fewer crowds in the piazza.
Lunch at Pizzarium Bonci (grab-and-go pizza al taglio)
Famous Roman-style pizza by the slice from renowned baker Gabriele Bonci—perfect for a quick, delicious lunch.
Local tips:
- Pizzarium is popular—arrive early to avoid a long queue.
- Try several small slices to sample different toppings.
- Eat standing nearby or take it to-go for a riverside snack.
Walk to Castel Sant'Angelo (transfer)
A pleasant riverside walk from the Vatican to Castel Sant'Angelo.
Local tips:
- The riverside walk offers nice views and photo opportunities.
- Consider short stops along the way for photos of the Tiber.
- Pick up a cold drink if warm—cafés line the route.
Castel Sant'Angelo visit
Explore the castle's ramparts and museum; enjoy panoramic views over the city from the top.
Local tips:
- The rooftop terrace offers excellent sunset vantage points if timing allows.
- Combine with a walk across Ponte Sant'Angelo for great photos.
- Check closing times as they vary seasonally.
Transfer to Trastevere neighborhood
Cross the river to Trastevere for evening drinks and a local atmosphere.
Local tips:
- Trastevere is lively in the evening—arrive early for a good aperitivo spot.
- Streets are narrow; taxis may be slower than walking.
- Enjoy getting slightly off the beaten path here.
Aperitivo at Freni e Frizioni
Popular local bar in Trastevere for a relaxed aperitivo and people-watching.
Local tips:
- Arrive before 18:30 to secure seating.
- The aperitivo selection pairs well with light bites.
- Cash and card are usually accepted; expect a vibrant local crowd.
Dinner at Trattoria Da Enzo al 29
A well-loved Trastevere trattoria serving home-style Roman dishes—book in advance.
Local tips:
- This trattoria is small and popular; reservations are strongly recommended.
- Try classic Roman dishes and seasonal specials.
- Be prepared for a warm, convivial atmosphere.
Day 4
Greener Rome: Appian Way and aqueduct park in the morning, Baths of Caracalla, Testaccio lunch, and Galleria Borghese in the afternoon for a refined finish.
Breakfast at hotel
Breakfast and pack for a mix of outdoor walking and museums.
Local tips:
- Grab bottled water for the Appian Way walk.
- Consider sun protection and a hat for open stretches.
- Leave large luggage at the hotel if you have a later departure.
Transfer to Parco degli Acquedotti
Travel to the Appian regional park area to see ancient aqueducts and rural Rome within the city.
Local tips:
- A short taxi or bus ride is the most efficient way to reach the park.
- Wear comfortable shoes for uneven terrain.
- Good spot for landscape photos away from crowds.
Parco degli Acquedotti & Appian Way walk
Explore stretches of Roman aqueducts and the ancient Appian Way; a restful, scenic morning.
Local tips:
- Bring water and a camera; facilities are limited.
- Consider renting a bike nearby to cover more ground comfortably.
- Avoid midday heat in summer—early morning is best.
Transfer to Baths of Caracalla
Head back toward the center to visit the extensive ruins of the imperial baths.
Local tips:
- A short taxi or bus ride will get you there efficiently.
- Check opening hours—some areas close earlier.
- Combine with nearby archaeological sites if time permits.
Visit Baths of Caracalla
Explore one of Rome’s largest and best-preserved ancient spa complexes.
Local tips:
- The site is extensive—allow an hour to roam at a steady pace.
- Guides or audio guides provide historical interpretation.
- Look for occasional exhibitions held at the Baths.
Transfer to Testaccio for lunch
Move to Rome’s food-centric Testaccio neighborhood—home to the market and authentic trattorie.
Local tips:
- Testaccio is one of Rome's best neighborhoods for genuine Roman cuisine.
- Allow time to wander the market after lunch if you like food culture.
- Consider leaving valuables secured; market areas are busy.
Lunch at Flavio al Velavevodetto (Testaccio)
Renowned Roman restaurant in Testaccio serving local classics in a welcoming setting.
Local tips:
- Book ahead for a midday table if possible.
- Try traditional Roman pasta dishes and a dessert from the house.
- Testaccio is known for its food culture—ask the staff for recommendations.
Transfer to Galleria Borghese
Make your way to Villa Borghese for an afternoon at the Borghese Gallery (timed entry usually required).
Local tips:
- Galleria Borghese requires timed tickets—book well in advance.
- Allow some time to walk through Villa Borghese park to reach the entrance.
- Taxis or a short walk from nearby stops will get you there.
Galleria Borghese visit
Enjoy masterpieces by Bernini, Caravaggio and Canova in an intimate, reservation-only gallery.
Local tips:
- Visits are usually limited to 2-hour time slots—arrive on time.
- Photography restrictions may apply inside the gallery.
- Combine with a relaxing stroll through the surrounding park after the visit.
Pincio Terrace / Villa Borghese break
Relax on the Terrazza del Pincio overlooking Piazza del Popolo — a calm way to finish your visit to Villa Borghese.
Local tips:
- Great place for photos of the city and a relaxing end to the day.
- Street musicians sometimes perform here—enjoy the ambiance.
- Plan your onward transfer to the hotel or station from here.
Transfer back to hotel / departure prep
Return to your hotel to collect luggage or prepare for onward travel.
Local tips:
- Confirm your transfer to the airport or train station with the hotel concierge.
- Allow extra time for traffic if traveling by taxi.
- If you have a late flight, ask the hotel about luggage storage after check-out.