5-Day Solo Itinerary Exploring Rome, Vatican City, and Venice

Day 1: Ancient Rome Exploration

Rome, Italy on June 29, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Pastificio Guerra

Enjoy a quick and tasty Italian breakfast with fresh pastries and coffee at Pastificio Guerra, located near Piazza di Spagna. It's a favourite among locals and travelers alike and opens from 7:30am.
EUR5, 0h30m

9:30am

Colosseum Tour

Explore the iconic Colosseum, Rome’s ancient arena that once hosted gladiatorial games. Pre-book your ticket to avoid queues; the site opens at 8:30am.
EUR18, 2h0m

11:45am

Roman Forum and Palatine Hill

Wander through the ruins of the Roman Forum and climb the Palatine Hill for stunning panoramic views of the ancient city. Included in Colosseum ticket.
Included, 1h30m

1:15pm

Lunch at Aroma Restaurant

Dine with a view of the Colosseum at Aroma, serving gourmet Italian cuisine in an elegant setting. Reservations recommended; open midday to 11:00pm.
EUR40, 1h30m

3:00pm

Trevi Fountain and Spanish Steps

Stroll to Trevi Fountain to toss a coin and make a wish, then head to the Spanish Steps to relax and enjoy people watching in one of Rome's most famous squares.
Free, 1h0m

5:00pm

Pantheon Visit

Visit the architectural marvel Pantheon with its impressive dome and oculus. Free entry, typically open until 7:00pm.
Free, 0h45m

7:00pm

Dinner at Trattoria da Enzo al 29

Enjoy traditional Roman dishes in a cosy trattoria in Trastevere, famous for its authentic cuisine and lively atmosphere.
EUR25, 1h30m

Day 2: Vatican City Highlights

Rome, Vatican City on June 30, 2025

7:45am

Breakfast at Roscioli Caffè

Start your day with a cappuccino and fresh pastries at Roscioli Caffè, near Campo de’ Fiori, open from early morning.
EUR7, 0h30m

8:30am

Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel

Pre-book your Vatican Museums ticket and explore their vast art collections culminating in Michelangelo’s breathtaking Sistine Chapel ceiling. Opens at 9:00am.
EUR30, 3h0m

12:00pm

St. Peter’s Basilica Tour

Enter St. Peter’s Basilica to admire magnificent Renaissance architecture and Michelangelo’s Pietà. Climb the dome for spectacular views, open 7:00am–7:00pm.
Free, Dome climb EUR10, 1h30m

1:45pm

Lunch at Ristorante Arlu

Nearby the Vatican, this restaurant offers delicious Roman cooking with an emphasis on fresh ingredients in a peaceful atmosphere.
EUR30, 1h0m

3:00pm

Castel Sant’Angelo

Walk to the historic Castel Sant’Angelo, a fortress museum rich in history and panoramic terrace views over the Tiber River. Open 9:00am to 7:30pm.
EUR15, 1h30m

5:00pm

Leisurely walk along the Tiber River

Enjoy a relaxing riverside stroll, watch street performers, and take in the atmosphere of Rome as the sun sets.
Free, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Osteria dell’Angelo

Finish your Rome visit with a hearty dinner at this traditional osteria famous for classic Italian dishes and warm hospitality.
EUR28, 1h30m

Day 3: Rome to Venice Travel and Evening Walk

Venice, Italy on July 1, 2025

7:00am

Early Breakfast at Hotel or local café

Enjoy an early breakfast to prepare for your train journey to Venice; many hotels provide packed breakfasts or visit a nearby café.
EUR6, 0h30m

8:00am

Train from Rome Termini to Venice Santa Lucia

Take a high-speed train from Rome to Venice, approximately 3h45m. Book tickets early for best prices and seats.
EUR45, 3h45m

12:00pm

Check-in and Lunch at Antiche Carampane

After arrival and hotel check-in, enjoy lunch at this hidden gem specializing in local Venetian seafood dishes near the Rialto.
EUR35, 1h30m

3:00pm

Explore Rialto Bridge and Market

Walk through the famous Rialto Bridge and explore the bustling market area, ideal for shopping and people watching.
Free, 1h0m

5:00pm

Visit St. Mark’s Square

Experience the grandeur of St. Mark’s Square, admire St. Mark’s Basilica and the Campanile outside (towers open 9:30am–7:00pm).
Free to enter square, basilica free but donation suggested, 1h0m

7:30pm

Dinner at Trattoria Ai Cugnai

Enjoy Venetian classic dishes in this cosy trattoria slightly off the tourist path.
EUR25, 1h30m

Day 4: Venice Canals and Art

Venice, Italy on July 2, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Pasticceria Tonolo

Start with pastries and coffee at Pasticceria Tonolo, a famous bakery among Venetians, open early morning.
EUR8, 0h30m

9:15am

Gondola Ride

Experience an iconic Venetian gondola ride through the canals, lasting about 30 minutes. Negotiate a fair price before starting.
EUR80, 0h30m

10:00am

Visit Doge’s Palace

Tour this grand palace – former home of Venetian rulers – with its beautiful architecture and historical artefacts. Open 9:00am–7:00pm.
EUR25, 1h30m

12:00pm

Lunch at Osteria alle Testiere

Highly regarded for its seafood specialties, this small, intimate osteria is a must for lunch in Venice.
EUR40, 1h30m

2:00pm

Visit Peggy Guggenheim Collection

Explore this modern art museum featuring works by Dali, Picasso, and Pollock, open 10:00am–6:00pm (closed Tuesdays).
EUR15, 1h30m

4:00pm

Relax at Campo Santa Margherita

Enjoy a lively Venetian square perfect for relaxing with a coffee or gelato while watching local life go by.
Free, 1h0m

6:30pm

Dinner at Ristorante La Zucca

Finish your trip with a delightful dinner at La Zucca, an acclaimed restaurant known for vegetable-based Venetian dishes and inventive menus.
EUR35, 1h30m