5-Day Ultimate Rome Itinerary: History, Food, and Culture

Day 1: Ancient Rome Exploration

Rome, Italy on May 17, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Caffè Propaganda

Begin your day with a delicious Italian breakfast featuring fresh pastries and excellent espresso at this chic bistro near the Colosseum.
EUR10, 1h

9:30am

Colosseum and Roman Forum

Explore the iconic Colosseum, Rome's ancient amphitheater, followed by the adjacent Roman Forum, the political and social heart of ancient Rome.
EUR18, 3h

1:00pm

Lunch at Aroma Restaurant

Enjoy exquisite Italian cuisine with a stunning view of the Colosseum from the rooftop terrace of this Michelin-starred restaurant.
EUR45, 1.5h

2:45pm

Palatine Hill

Walk through the ancient ruins where Rome was founded, offering panoramic views of the Roman Forum and Circus Maximus.
EUR12, 2h

6:00pm

Piazza Venezia and Vittorio Emanuele II Monument

Visit the impressive monument honoring Italy’s first king with its grand staircases and panoramic terraces.
Free, 0.5h

7:30pm

Dinner at Trattoria Luzzi

Enjoy authentic Roman dishes like carbonara and amatriciana in a cozy, family-run trattoria close to the Colosseum.
EUR25, 1.5h
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Day 2: Vatican Highlights

Vatican City, Rome, Italy on May 18, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Bar San Pietro

Grab a quick espresso and cornetto near the Vatican before starting your day.
EUR5, 0.5h

8:00am

Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel

Explore vast art collections including Michelangelo’s famous Sistine Chapel ceiling; booking tickets in advance is highly recommended.
EUR30, 3h

11:45am

St. Peter’s Basilica

Visit the world’s largest basilica, admire Bernini's masterpiece piazza, and consider climbing to the dome for spectacular views of Rome.
Free, dome climb EUR10, 2h

2:00pm

Lunch at Ristorante Arlù

Savor high-quality Roman and seafood dishes in this charming restaurant close to Piazza Navona.
EUR35, 1.5h

4:00pm

Castel Sant’Angelo

Walk along the Tiber River and visit this historic fortress with rich history and amazing river views.
EUR15, 2h

7:30pm

Dinner at Pizzeria La Montecarlo

Enjoy some of the best Roman-style thin-crust pizzas in a lively, casual setting.
EUR20, 1.5h
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Day 3: Trastevere and Panoramic Views

Rome, Italy on May 19, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Bar San Calisto

This local favorite in Trastevere offers simple Italian coffee and pastries for a casual start.
EUR5, 0.5h

9:00am

Wander Trastevere

Stroll the charming cobblestone streets of Trastevere, visiting the Basilica of Santa Maria and the lively piazzas.
Free, 2h

11:30am

Janiculum Hill (Gianicolo)

Climb or take a bus to this vantage point offering breathtaking views over Rome.
Free, 1h

1:00pm

Lunch at Osteria La Gensola

Enjoy seafood specialties and authentic Roman dishes near Trastevere’s heart.
EUR30, 1.5h

3:00pm

Villa Farnesina

Explore this Renaissance villa featuring stunning frescoes and beautiful gardens.
EUR12, 1h

5:00pm

Relax at Tiber River Waterfront

Take a relaxing stroll along the river or enjoy an aperitivo at a riverside bar during sunset.
Free, 1h

7:30pm

Dinner at Da Enzo al 29

Savor classic Roman cuisine with handmade pasta in this beloved Trastevere trattoria.
EUR30, 1.5h
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Day 4: Classical Rome & Baroque Squares

Rome, Italy on May 20, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Roscioli Caffè

Start with gourmet coffee and freshly baked pastries in this famed Roman café.
EUR8, 0.5h

9:00am

Capitoline Museums

Visit Rome’s ancient art and archaeological museum situated on the Capitoline Hill with masterpieces of Roman history.
EUR15, 2h

11:30am

Piazza Venezia and Victor Emmanuel II Monument

Explore the grand square, admire the monument, and nearby Piazza del Campidoglio designed by Michelangelo.
Free, 1h

1:00pm

Lunch at Ristorante Santa Cristina al Quirinale

Experience elegant Italian dishes near the Quirinal Palace with seasonal ingredients.
EUR40, 1.5h

3:00pm

Piazza Navona and Pantheon

Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of Piazza Navona’s fountains before walking to the majestic Pantheon nearby.
Free, Pantheon entry EUR5, 2h

6:00pm

Trevi Fountain and Spanish Steps

Visit the iconic Trevi Fountain—don’t forget to toss a coin—and then relax at the famous Spanish Steps.
Free, 1h

7:30pm

Dinner at Il Gabriello

Dine on refined Roman and Mediterranean cuisine near Piazza Navona in an intimate setting.
EUR40, 1.5h
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Day 5: Gardens and Grand Finale

Rome, Italy on May 21, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Ginger Sapori e Salute

Enjoy healthy and fresh breakfast options with excellent coffee near the Borghese Gardens.
EUR12, 0.5h

9:30am

Borghese Gallery and Gardens

Tour the exquisite art collection featuring works by Bernini and Caravaggio, then stroll through the beautiful gardens.
EUR20, 3h

1:00pm

Lunch at Casina Valadier

Treat yourself to an elegant lunch with incredible views over Rome in this historic villa restaurant.
EUR50, 1.5h

3:00pm

Piazza del Popolo

Explore this large, lively square with twin churches and grand entrance gates to the city.
Free, 1h

4:30pm

Shopping at Via del Corso

Spend your afternoon shopping along Rome’s main shopping street with a mix of boutiques and international brands.
Varies, 2h

7:30pm

Farewell Dinner at La Pergola

Celebrate your last night with a Michelin three-star meal offering breathtaking views and impeccable service.
EUR150, 2h
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