5.5 Days Exploring Rome's Ancient Wonders, Culinary Delights, and Vibrant Culture

Day 1: Ancient Rome Arrival

Rome, Italy on May 17, 2025

9:00am

Breakfast at Pasticceria Regoli

Start your day with traditional Roman pastries and rich espresso at this popular bakery, open from 7:30am to 8:00pm.
EUR5, 0h30m

10:00am

Colosseum Tour

Explore the iconic symbol of Ancient Rome with a guided tour of the Colosseum. It opens at 8:30am and closing times vary seasonally, usually around 7:00pm.
EUR18, 2h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Aroma Restaurant

Dine with a view of the Colosseum while savoring refined Italian dishes. Open 12:30pm to 3:00pm.
EUR50, 1h30m

2:30pm

Roman Forum and Palatine Hill

Wander through the ruins of the Roman Forum and explore Palatine Hill, the birthplace of Rome. Open 8:30am to 7:00pm.
Included with Colosseum ticket, 2h0m

5:00pm

Stroll to Piazza Venezia and Capitoline Hill

Visit the Victor Emmanuel II Monument and enjoy panoramic views from Capitoline Hill.
Free, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Trattoria Luzzi

Enjoy classic Roman dishes such as carbonara in a casual setting near the Colosseum. Open until 11:00pm.
EUR25, 1h30m
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Day 2: Vatican and Trastevere

Rome, Italy on May 18, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Roscioli Caffè

Enjoy light Italian breakfast options near the Vatican, open 7:30am to 8:00pm.
EUR7, 0h30m

9:00am

Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel

Discover world-renowned art collections and Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel ceilings. Open 9:00am to 6:00pm (last admission 4:00pm). Booking ahead recommended.
EUR30, 3h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Borgo Pio 91

Cozy trattoria offering Roman cuisine near the Vatican, open midday to 3:30pm.
EUR20, 1h0m

2:00pm

St. Peter's Basilica & Square

Explore the magnificent basilica’s interior and the grand piazza outside. Basilica open 7:00am to 7:00pm.
Free, 1h30m

4:00pm

Walk to Trastevere Neighborhood

Cross the Tiber River and explore charming alleys and local artisan shops in Trastevere.
Free, 1h0m

6:30pm

Dinner at Da Enzo al 29

Savor authentic Roman dishes including cacio e pepe in this well-loved Trastevere spot, open until 11:00pm.
EUR30, 1h30m
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Day 3: Historic Center Highlights

Rome, Italy on May 19, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Sant'Eustachio Il Caffè

Try some of Rome’s best coffee and pastries, open from 7:00am to 10:00pm.
EUR5, 0h30m

9:30am

Pantheon Visit

Visit the remarkably well-preserved ancient Roman temple, open 9:00am to 7:00pm.
Free, 1h0m

10:45am

Piazza Navona and Bernini's Fountains

Enjoy the lively atmosphere and exquisite baroque fountains in one of Rome’s most famous squares.
Free, 1h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at Osteria del Pegno

Eat classic Roman dishes in a cozy hideaway near Piazza Navona, open 12:30pm to 3:00pm.
EUR25, 1h0m

1:45pm

Trevi Fountain and Spanish Steps

Visit the iconic Trevi Fountain then stroll to the Spanish Steps for shopping nearby.
Free, 1h30m

4:00pm

Galleria Alberto Sordi Shopping

Shop or admire the beautiful interiors of this historic shopping gallery, open until 9:00pm.
Free, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Ristorante Santa Cristina al Quirinale

Enjoy refined Italian cuisine with a warm ambiance, open until 11:00pm.
EUR40, 1h30m
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Day 4: Baroque and Local Life

Rome, Italy on May 20, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Forno Campo de’ Fiori

Start your morning with a delicious cornetto or pizza bianca, open from 6:30am.
EUR5, 0h30m

9:00am

Piazza del Popolo and Santa Maria del Popolo

See stunning artworks by Caravaggio and enjoy the baroque splendor of the piazza.
EUR5 (church entry), 1h0m

10:30am

Villa Borghese Gardens & Gallery

Relax in Rome’s famous park and visit the Borghese Gallery with its priceless art collection. Gallery open 9:00am to 7:00pm, closed Mondays.
EUR20, 2h30m

1:00pm

Lunch at Casina Valadier

Dine with a panoramic view over Rome in Villa Borghese, open 12:00pm to 3:00pm.
EUR45, 1h30m

3:00pm

Via del Corso Shopping

Explore one of Rome’s main shopping streets filled with boutiques and international brands.
Free, 2h0m

6:00pm

Sunset at Pincian Hill Terrace

Catch breathtaking views as the sun sets over the city from the Pincian Terrace in Villa Borghese.
Free, 1h0m

7:30pm

Dinner at Il Margutta RistorArte

Enjoy vegetarian Italian fare in an elegant setting blending art and cuisine, open until 11:00pm.
EUR40, 1h30m
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Day 5: Ancient Road and Views

Rome, Italy on May 21, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Your Hotel or Nearby Café

Fuel up early to explore the historic Appian Way with fresh coffee and pastries.
EUR7, 0h30m

8:00am

Walk or Bike Along Appian Way (Via Appia Antica)

Discover ancient ruins and breathtaking nature on Rome’s historic Roman road. Entry to parks is free; bike rentals approx. EUR15/hr.
EUR15 (optional bike rental), 3h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at Hostaria Antica Roma

Traditional Roman dishes served near the Appian Way, open 12:00pm to 3:30pm.
EUR30, 1h0m

2:00pm

Gianicolo Hill

Visit this panoramic spot for sweeping views of Rome and enjoy the peaceful park atmosphere.
Free, 1h0m

3:30pm

Bernini’s Fontana dell’Acqua Paola

Admire this baroque fountain located near Gianicolo Hill, a quieter alternative to the Trevi Fountain.
Free, 0h30m

5:00pm

Explore Trastevere for Last Evening

Enjoy final evening walks in this lively neighborhood filled with cafes and street performers.
Free, 2h0m

7:30pm

Dinner at Spirito di Vino

End your Roman holiday with gourmet Italian fare in a cozy wine cellar setting, open until 11:00pm.
EUR50, 1h30m
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Day 6: Markets and Departure

Rome, Italy on May 22, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Mercato Centrale Roma

Sample from multiple vendors offering fresh coffee, pastries, and local breakfast delights. Open from 7:00am.
EUR10, 1h0m

8:30am

Visit Campo de’ Fiori Market

Stroll through this morning market filled with fresh produce, flowers, and artisan goods before your departure.
Free, 1h0m
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