5-Day Ultimate Rome Itinerary: Historic Gems, Culinary Delights & Timeless Culture

Day 1: Arrival & City Center

Rome, Italy on May 17, 2025

9:00am

Breakfast at Café Greco

Start your day at Antico Caffè Greco, a historic café near the Spanish Steps, enjoying an authentic Italian espresso and cornetto in this 18th-century setting.
EUR10, 0h45m

10:00am

Spanish Steps & Piazza di Spagna

Climb the iconic 135 steps to enjoy views over Piazza di Spagna and browse the boutiques lining Via dei Condotti for a feel of Roman elegance and history.
Free, 1h

11:15am

Trevi Fountain

Visit the magnificent Trevi Fountain, one of Rome’s most famous Baroque landmarks; toss a coin to ensure a return visit to Rome.
Free, 0h30m

12:00pm

Lunch at Il Chianti Vineria

Enjoy Tuscan specialties and fresh pasta in the heart of Rome's city center, perfect for an authentic Italian lunch.
EUR25, 1h

1:30pm

Pantheon

Explore the remarkably well-preserved Pantheon, an ancient Roman temple turned church, known for its massive dome and oculus.
Free, 1h

3:00pm

Piazza Navona

Relax at Piazza Navona, famous for its fountains and lively street artists, soaking in the Baroque architecture and Roman atmosphere.
Free, 1h

6:30pm

Dinner at Roscioli

Savor traditional Roman dishes with an emphasis on cured meats and cheeses at this acclaimed deli and restaurant near Campo de' Fiori.
EUR40, 1.5h

Day 2: Ancient Rome Exploration

Rome, Italy on May 18, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Panella – L'Arte del Pane

Taste freshly baked pastries and excellent coffee at this renowned bakery before your day exploring ancient Rome.
EUR8, 0h45m

9:30am

Colosseum Tour

Book a guided tour of the Colosseum, the iconic amphitheater known for gladiatorial battles, architecture, and Roman engineering marvels.
EUR18, 2h

12:00pm

Roman Forum and Palatine Hill

Wander through the ruins of Ancient Rome’s political and social hub and the legendary Palatine Hill, believed to be the city’s founding site.
Included with Colosseum ticket, 2h

2:30pm

Lunch at La Taverna dei Fori Imperiali

Enjoy home-cooked Roman cuisine steps away from the Forum featuring specialties like carbonara and cacio e pepe.
EUR30, 1h

4:00pm

Explore Monti neighborhood

Stroll this charming artisan district known for hip boutiques, vintage shops and cozy cafés perfect for an afternoon espresso.
Free, 1.5h

7:00pm

Dinner at Trattoria Monti

Dine on traditional Roman dishes with fresh local ingredients in a warm, casual atmosphere.
EUR35, 1.5h

Day 3: Vatican Day

Rome, Italy on May 19, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Pasticceria Siciliana

Enjoy a Sicilian pastry and coffee nearby before heading early to the Vatican Museums.
EUR7, 0h30m

8:30am

Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel

Pre-book skip-the-line tickets to explore one of the richest art collections in the world and admire Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel ceiling.
EUR30, 3h

12:00pm

St. Peter’s Basilica

Visit the largest church in the world, marvel at Bernini’s piazza, and consider climbing the dome for spectacular city views.
Free entry, Dome climb EUR10, 1.5h

1:45pm

Lunch at Ristorante Arlu

Relax with Roman and seafood dishes near the Vatican, ideal for a leisurely lunch after a busy morning.
EUR28, 1h

3:00pm

Walk in Prati District

Explore this elegant residential neighborhood full of shopping streets and gelato shops for a relaxed afternoon.
Free, 1.5h

7:00pm

Dinner at Osteria dell'Angelo

Enjoy classic Roman dishes in a cozy setting with excellent wine selections.
EUR35, 1.5h

Day 4: Trastevere & Views

Rome, Italy on May 20, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Bar San Calisto

Grab a simple yet authentic Roman coffee and pastry at this beloved Trastevere spot.
EUR5, 0h30m

9:00am

Wander Trastevere

Explore the charming cobblestone streets, colorful buildings, and Piazza Santa Maria, the heart of this lively neighborhood.
Free, 2h

11:30am

Visit Basilica of Santa Maria in Trastevere

Admire stunning medieval mosaics in this historic basilica dating back to the 3rd century.
Free, 0h45m

12:45pm

Lunch at Hostaria La Botticella

Enjoy hearty Roman dishes and a warm atmosphere in this traditional Trastevere eatery.
EUR30, 1h

2:00pm

Janiculum Hill (Gianicolo)

Walk or take a short bus ride up Janiculum for panoramic views over Rome, including the iconic dome of St. Peter’s Basilica.
Free, 1h

3:30pm

Orto Botanico di Roma

Relax at Rome’s Botanical Gardens located near Janiculum Hill, featuring diverse plants and a serene environment.
EUR5, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Da Enzo al 29

Reserve early at this famous Trastevere trattoria for authentic Roman cuisine in an intimate setting.
EUR40, 1.5h

Day 5: Shopping & Departure

Rome, Italy on May 21, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Pergamino Caffè

Enjoy quality artisan coffee and light pastries in this popular local café to start your final day.
EUR7, 0h30m

9:30am

Shopping along Via del Corso and Via Cola di Rienzo

Browse a mix of international brands and Italian boutiques, perfect for last-minute souvenirs and fashion finds.
Free to browse, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Mercato Centrale Roma

Experience an indoor food market with diverse stalls offering everything from fresh pasta to gelato for a flexible lunch.
EUR20, 1h

1:30pm

Leisurely walk to Villa Borghese Gardens

Unwind with a stroll in Rome’s central park and, if time allows, visit the Borghese Gallery (reservation required).
Free entry to gardens, EUR15 gallery, 1.5h

3:30pm

Prepare for departure

Return to your accommodation to collect luggage and head to the airport or train station for your onward journey.
Varies, Varies