Budget-Friendly 5-Day Rome Itinerary

Day 1: Historic Rome

Rome, Italy

8:00AM

Colosseum

Start your day early at the iconic Colosseum, an ancient amphitheater where gladiators once fought. Admission fee is approximately €12. Spend 2-3 hours exploring the ruins.
€12, 2-3 hours

11:30AM

Roman Forum

Walk over to the Roman Forum, the heart of ancient Rome, and marvel at the ancient ruins of temples, basilicas, and arches. Admission fee is around €16. Budget 2 hours for this visit.
€16, 2 hours

2:30PM

Pantheon

Head to the Pantheon, a well-preserved Roman temple with a famous oculus in the center of its dome. Entrance is free, so take some time to admire the architecture.
Free, 1 hour

6:00PM

Trastevere

End your day in the charming neighborhood of Trastevere. Wander through its narrow cobblestone streets, grab a slice of pizza from a local bakery for dinner, and soak in the lively atmosphere.
€5-10, Evening
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Day 2: Vatican City

Rome, Italy

9:00AM

Vatican Museums

Spend your morning exploring the Vatican Museums, home to an impressive collection of art, including the Sistine Chapel. Admission is about €17. Allocate 2-3 hours for this visit.
€17, 2-3 hours

12:30PM

St. Peter's Basilica

Visit St. Peter's Basilica, one of the largest churches in the world, and climb to the top of the dome for panoramic views of the city. Entrance to the basilica is free, but dome access is around €8. Budget 1-2 hours here.
€8, 1-2 hours

3:00PM

Castel Sant'Angelo

Walk to Castel Sant'Angelo, a historic fortress with stunning views of the Tiber River. Entrance fee is approximately €10. Spend an hour exploring the castle and its exhibitions.
€10, 1 hour

6:30PM

Piazza Navona

End your day at Piazza Navona, a beautiful square with fountains and lively street performers. Enjoy a budget-friendly dinner at one of the outdoor cafes.
€10-15, Evening
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Day 3: Ancient Rome

Rome, Italy

8:30AM

Palatine Hill

Start your day at Palatine Hill, one of the Seven Hills of Rome, and enjoy panoramic views of the Roman Forum and Circus Maximus. Admission is approximately €12. Plan for 2 hours here.
€12, 2 hours

11:00AM

Circus Maximus

Walk to Circus Maximus, an ancient Roman chariot racing stadium, and imagine the spectacles that once took place here. Entrance to the site is free, so take some time to explore.
Free, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Campo de' Fiori

Have a leisurely lunch at Campo de' Fiori, a bustling market square with various food stalls offering delicious Italian street food at affordable prices.
€10-15, 1 hour

3:00PM

Capitoline Hill

Visit Capitoline Hill, one of the Seven Hills of Rome, and explore the Capitoline Museums for a glimpse into ancient Roman art and history. Admission fee is around €15. Budget 2 hours for this visit.
€15, 2 hours

6:00PM

Gelateria del Teatro

Indulge in some gelato at Gelateria del Teatro near Capitoline Hill. Try unique flavors like ricotta and fig while enjoying a leisurely evening stroll.
€5-7, Evening
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Day 4: Hidden Gems

Rome, Italy

9:00AM

Appian Way

Explore the historic Appian Way, one of the oldest roads in Rome, lined with ancient ruins, catacombs, and Roman countryside. Take a leisurely walk or rent a bike for around €10.
€10, 2-3 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Antico Forno Roscioli

Enjoy a delicious Roman-style pizza or a fresh panini at Antico Forno Roscioli, a popular bakery known for its authentic Italian cuisine at reasonable prices.
€8-12, 1 hour

2:00PM

Aventine Keyhole

Visit the Aventine Hill and peer through the keyhole at the Priory of the Knights of Malta for a unique view of St. Peter's Basilica perfectly framed by the garden hedges.
Free, 1 hour

4:00PM

Street Art in Ostiense

Explore the vibrant street art scene in the Ostiense neighborhood, filled with colorful murals and graffiti by local and international artists. Take a self-guided walking tour.
Free, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Mercato Centrale Roma

Head to Mercato Centrale Roma for dinner, a bustling food market offering a variety of Italian dishes from pasta to seafood. Choose from different vendors for a budget-friendly meal.
€10-20, Evening
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Day 5: Fountain Hopping

Rome, Italy

10:00AM

Trevi Fountain

Begin your day at the iconic Trevi Fountain, toss a coin over your shoulder for good luck, and take in the beauty of this Baroque masterpiece. It's free to visit the fountain.
Free, 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch at Da Enzo al 29

Enjoy a traditional Roman meal at Da Enzo al 29, a cozy trattoria known for its authentic pasta dishes and friendly atmosphere. Prices are reasonable for the quality of food.
€15-20, 1 hour

2:00PM

Piazza di Spagna

Visit the Spanish Steps at Piazza di Spagna, a famous meeting point in Rome with a monumental staircase leading to the Trinità dei Monti church. Enjoy some gelato from nearby shops.
€5-7, 1 hour

4:00PM

Piazza del Popolo

Explore Piazza del Popolo, a large square with an Egyptian obelisk and twin churches. Take a leisurely stroll and soak in the lively atmosphere of the area.
Free, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at La Prosciutteria

End your day with a casual dinner at La Prosciutteria, a cozy eatery offering a selection of cured meats, cheeses, and wines. Enjoy a relaxed meal in a rustic setting.
€10-15, Evening
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