Experience Rome in 5 Days: A City Lover's Itinerary

  • Day 1: The Heart of Ancient Rome
    10 minutes (1.3 miles) from Colosseo Metro Station

    Begin your journey in Ancient Rome with a visit to the Colosseum (Colosseo). Built-in 80 AD, it is the largest amphitheatre in the world and a must-see landmark of Rome. Next, visit the Pantheon, a former Roman temple turned church located in Piazza della Rotonda. Finally, stroll over to the Capitoline Hill (Campidoglio), where you can explore the ancient Temple of Jupiter and a collection of museums.

  • Day 2: Vatican City and Beyond
    30 minutes (2.1 miles) from Capitoline Hill

    Explore the Catholic capital of the world with a visit to the Vatican City. Start with St. Peter's Basilica, where you can gaze up at Michelangelo's masterpiece on the ceiling. Don't miss the famous Sistine Chapel filled with stunning frescoes. Afterward, visit the Vatican Museums to see an extensive collection of artworks, tapestries, and ancient artefacts.

  • Day 3: Discovering the Trevi Fountain
    20 minutes (1.7 miles) from Vatican City

    Start your day off at the iconic Pantheon, where you can marvel at the domed ceiling and see the final resting place of famous artists like Raphael. Afterward, visit the stunning Trevi Fountain where you can make a wish by tossing a coin. Then, explore the Spanish Steps, a beautiful steep staircase with a stunning view of the city.

  • Day 4: The Artistic Gems
    30 minutes (1.3 miles) from Spanish Steps

    Indulge your love for art with a visit to the Galleria Borghese. The museum displays an impressive collection of Italian Renaissance artworks, including pieces by Caravaggio, Bernini, and Raphael. Next, head over to the Maxxi Museum and get lost in the modern art world. Finish the day with a visit to the Villa Giulia Museum, home to the largest Etruscan art collection in the world.

  • Day 5: Street Food and Local Delights
    20 minutes (0.9 miles) from Villa Giulia Museum

    Dedicate your final day to exploring Rome's delicious and diverse street food scene. Begin your culinary journey with a visit to the Testaccio Market, where you can try everything from pizza to fish to gelato. Afterward, visit the neighborhood of Trastevere to taste the Supplì, a deep-fried rice ball with mozzarella cheese. End your day with a classic Italian dessert, Tiramisu, at the famous Pompi bakery.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Colosseum (2 hours, €16)
  • Pantheon (1 hour, entry is free)
  • Capitoline Hill (2 hours, entry is free)
  • St. Peter's Basilica (1.5 hours, entry is free)
  • Sistine Chapel (1 hour, €20)
  • Vatican Museums (2 hours, €20)
  • Trevi Fountain (30 minutes, entry is free)
  • Spanish Steps (30 minutes, entry is free)
  • Galleria Borghese (2 hours, €20)
  • Maxxi Museum (2 hours, €12)
  • Villa Giulia Museum (2 hours, €10)
  • Testaccio Market (2 hours, €20)
  • Trastevere (1 hour, cost varies)
  • Pompi Bakery (30 minutes, cost varies)
  • Total Estimated Costs: €156

Transportation

Rome has an extensive public transportation system that includes metro, buses, and trams. Purchase a Roma Pass for €28, which includes three free entries and discounted entry to other attractions for three days. Taxis can be expensive, so it's best to use them sparingly.

Useful Tips

If you have an extra day, visit the Roman Forum and explore the history of Ancient Rome. Alternatively, take a day trip to the Naples city and indulge in Naples' famous pizza. If you have less time, you can prioritize the attractions that interest you the most, but make sure not to miss the Colosseum or Vatican City.

Airports

Rome has two airports, Fiumicino airport (FCO) and Ciampino airport (CIA). Fiumicino airport is the larger of the two and is located around 30 kilometers from the city center. Ciampino airport is smaller and mainly used by budget airlines, around 15 kilometers from the city center. Both airports are well-connected to the city center through public transportation.

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